Resource Optimization and Function Maximization Design in Frugal Innovation:Practical Paths for Marginalized Environments

Abstract

Background&Rationale(Why):In marginal situations such as remote rural areas and post-disaster reconstruction regions,extremely scarce resources and weak infrastructure often coexist,presenting a common and prominent practical constraint.Most mainstream product design theories and methods were developed in an industrialized environment with relatively abundant resources and a mature industrial chain.When they are directly applied to these scenarios,they often result in problems such as functional redundancy,unaffordable costs,and difficulties in maintenance and repair.Thrifty innovation,as an important paradigm for addressing resource limitations,provides a direction for low-cost solutions.However,existing research mostly focuses on"limiting cost reduction"of subtractive innovation,lacking a systematic design method that can simultaneously optimize resource allocation and enhance the core functional value.Especially in the design stage,there is still a significant research gap in how to accurately identify the most critical but often implicit real needs of users and strategically allocate limited resources to high-value core functions.Methodology(How):To address the aforementioned challenges,this paper proposes and constructs an integrated design framework for edge scenarios-"Resource Optimization-Function Maximization"(Resource Optimization–Function Maximization,RO-FM).This framework takes"function-cost-benefit"as its core evaluation dimension,systematically integrating Quality Function Deployment(QFD),TRIZ inventive problem-solving theory,and System Dynamics(SD)modeling,thereby forming a research methodological system that is both theoretically supported and practically operational.Approach(With what):The implementation of the RO-FM framework follows a structured implementation path:Firstly,by constructing the QFD matrix,the vague and qualitative user requirements are transformed into clear and measurable key design parameters;Secondly,using the TRIZ contradiction matrix and inventive principles,targeted solutions are sought for inevitable technical conflicts under resource constraints(such as the tension between performance and cost,functionality and reliability);Finally,with the help of the SD model,dynamic simulations are conducted on multiple alternative concept schemes.Starting from multiple dimensions such as resource consumption,functional realization degree,and social economic benefits,a comprehensive assessment and optimization of the schemes are carried out across different time scales,providing a more scientific basis for decision-making.Core Findings(What):This study has developed a closed-loop design process consisting of four stages,namely"Demand Identification and Function Definition","Resource Constraint Analysis and Conflict Resolution","Dynamic Simulation and Optimization of Multiple Schemes",and"Prototype Development,Iteration,and Verification".To demonstrate the feasibility of this framework,this paper employs a proof-of-concept case study,combining(i)parametric system dynamics simulation and(ii)bench prototype testing under controlled conditions.To facilitate reproducibility,the study has fully documented the model structure,input parameters(including their sources),and testing procedures,and provided them as supplementary materials.Value&Contribution(So what):This research provides a systematic methodology that goes beyond the traditional frugal innovation approach for the development of edge context products.The core contribution of RO-FM lies not only in emphasizing cost reduction through"subtraction",but also in advocating innovation through"addition":that is,by maximizing the value contribution of key functions,it promotes a leap in resource utilization efficiency.This framework offers a feasible design practice path for addressing the complex social-technical issues caused by global resource inequality,and has significant theoretical and practical significance for promoting inclusiveness and sustainability.