CST008
Standardize core equipment and absorb brownfield incompatibility through intermediary adapters and interface modules rather than custom equipment procurement.
CyberTRIZ analysis · BrownFieldIndustrialProjects contradiction C14-CST008 · one of 8,235 worked contradictions published by CyberTRIZ.AI
Regulations
Standard Equipment vs Existing-System Compatibility
Business ContextStandard equipment can reduce procurement cost, simplify spares, and improve supplier availability. Existing brownfield systems may have dimensions, ratings, protocols, connections, or operating characteristics that differ from current standards.
Brown Field Industrial Projects TRIZ ResolutionStandardize the core equipment while adapting only the interface. Transition pieces, adapters, configurable controls, and interface modules can preserve standard equipment benefits without forcing extensive modification of existing systems.
Applicable TRIZ Principles
Principle 24 – Intermediary: introduces adaptable interfaces between standard and existing systems.
Principle 3 – Local Quality: customizes only characteristics affected by existing conditions.
Principle 6 – Universality: preserves common equipment platforms across multiple applications.
Expected Outcome
Greater equipment standardization
Improved compatibility
Lower procurement complexity
Reduced site modification
Decision IndicatorsEarly indicators that this contradiction is limiting project performance include:
Standard equipment requires extensive field modification.
Projects purchase custom equipment for minor interface differences.
Existing connections determine entire equipment designs.
Spare-parts diversity continues increasing.
Compatibility problems appear after procurement.
Monitoring these indicators helps organizations use standardized equipment while accommodating necessary brownfield interfaces.