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Article

Integrating TRIZ Methodology in Human-Centered Design: Developing a Multifunctional, Sustainable Cup Holder

by
Kai-Chao Yao
1,2,
Chun-Chung Liao
1,3,
Kuo-Yi Li
4,5,
Wei-Lun Huang
1,6,
Wei-Sho Ho
1,7,8,*,
Jing-Ran Xu
1,9,*,
Shu-Chen Yang
10,
Hui-Ling Hsiao
10,
Yin-Chi Lin
10,
Ching-Yi Lai
10 and
Ying-Ju Tseng
1,11
1
Department of Electrical and Mechanical Technology, National Changhua University of Education Bao-Shan Campus, No. 2, Shi-Da Rd., Changhua City 500208, Taiwan
2
Kenda Cultural and Educational Foundation, No. 146, Sec. 1, Zhongshan Rd., Yuanlin City 510037, Taiwan
3
Shenghe Technology Co., Ltd., 3F., No. 20, Ln. 786, Sec. 4, Taiwan Blvd., Taichung City 407003, Taiwan
4
Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, National Chin-Yi University of Technology, No. 57, Sec. 2, Zhongshan Rd., Taiping Dist., Taichung City 411030, Taiwan
5
Society of Innovative Education and Technology, No. 164-1, Yanji St., Da’an Dist., Taipei City 106062, Taiwan
6
Medical Affairs Office, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 7, Zhongshan S. Rd., Zhongzheng Dist., Taipei City 100225, Taiwan
7
NCUE Alumni Association, National Changhua University of Education Jin-De Campus, No. 1, Jinde Rd., Changhua City 500207, Taiwan
8
Hundred Rivers Co., Ltd., 11 F., No. 361, Minquan Rd., Dangou Vil., North Dist., Taichung City 404025, Taiwan
9
Sheng Jen Industrial Co., Ltd., No. 49, Aly. 2, Ln. 226, Sec. 1, Zhongzheng Rd., Changhua City 500004, Taiwan
10
Department of Nursing, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, No. 666, Buzi Rd., Beitun Dist., Taichung City 406053, Taiwan
11
Department of Child Care and Education, National Yuanlin Home-Economics and Commercial Vocational Senior High School, No. 56, Zhongzheng Rd., Yuanlin City 510005, Taiwan
 
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Sustainability 2025, 17(16), 7288; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17167288
Submission received: 24 April 2025 / Revised: 13 June 2025 / Accepted: 31 July 2025 / Published: 12 August 2025
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Abstract

This study presents the development of an innovative multifunctional cup holder designed to enhance safety, usability, and sustainability. Addressing common issues such as accidental spills, heat retention, and structural stability, the proposed design incorporates adjustable fixation and heating functionalities. The research applies a systematic design approach, applying the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ) methodology to resolve design contradictions and enhance product functionality. By integrating human factors considerations and universal design principles, the cup holder aims to improve user experience and accessibility. The design features a vacuum-based adjustable fixation system to prevent tipping, a controlled heating mechanism to maintain beverage temperature, and a shock-absorbing structure for enhanced durability. To evaluate whether the final design meets user expectations, a SERVQUAL questionnaire was used to collect user feedback, which was then analyzed using the Importance–Performance Analysis combined with the Kano model (IPA-Kano model). The results revealed an overall importance score of 4.347 and a satisfaction score of 3.943. Key strengths identified include reliable shock resistance, effective fixation, and ease of operation, while areas such as brand reputation and temperature control precision were found to require improvement due to their high importance but low performance. These insights confirm that the proposed design effectively enhances stability, thermal performance, and user convenience, while aligning with users’ expectations. By addressing critical functional and safety needs, this research advances the development of practical, user-centered innovations in everyday product design.

1. Introduction

In modern society, where efficiency and convenience drive daily activities, the role of beverage containers extends beyond mere utility to influencing user experience, safety, and sustainability. Cups are indispensable in both personal and professional settings, yet their design has remained relatively static despite evolving user needs and environmental considerations. However, as the pace of life quickens and the number of items on desks increases, the risk of cups being knocked over and spilling liquids correspondingly rises. One of the critical issues associated with conventional cup design is the lack of stability, particularly in dynamic environments such as offices, vehicles, and public spaces.
According to statistics from Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare, accidental injuries have consistently ranked as the eighth leading cause of death [1]. Among these, burn injuries—particularly those caused by hot liquids—are of concern in everyday settings. Children are especially vulnerable to scalds from spilled hot beverages, which can result from unstable or poorly insulated cups placed within their reach. Such burns not only pose immediate medical risks but may also lead to long-term physical and psychological consequences [2,3,4]. These incidents underscore the importance of improving cup stability and thermal safety features, especially in shared or cluttered environments. These types of burn injuries, which are often preventable through improved product design, underscore the importance of incorporating safety considerations into cup design for everyday use [5,6].
Beyond safety concerns, thermal insulation and sustainability remain major challenges in cup design. Many disposable and reusable cups fail to provide adequate heat retention, leading users to frequently reheat beverages, thereby increasing energy consumption and contributing to environmental waste. Addressing these issues requires a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates human-centered design, engineering innovation, and sustainability principles.
This study proposes a novel cup holder that integrates TRIZ methodology to systematically resolve design contradictions and enhance functionality. The proposed solution not only stabilizes cups to prevent accidental spills but also incorporates a heating element to maintain optimal beverage temperature. By applying principles from ergonomics, universal design, and sustainable product development, this research aims to improve the safety, usability, and environmental impact of everyday beverage consumption. The findings of this study hold potential implications for consumer product design, workplace safety, and energy-efficient solutions, offering a practical framework for integrating TRIZ and human-centered design methodologies in future product innovations.

2. Materials

This study primarily explores the convenience and necessity of a fixed and heated cup holder, and its effectiveness in preventing property damage and burn accidents caused by tipping cups. Initially, the research involves collecting market analysis data on anti-spill cup holders and reviewing the relevant literature on cup holder design to serve as foundational references. Based on the literature review, further analysis was conducted to derive innovative design concepts for the cup holder. Finally, the TRIZ, Mind Mapping, Human Factors Engineering, and Universal design principles were applied for innovative design. The practical design analysis was conducted using IPA and the Kano model. The detailed content is explained as follows.

2.1. Market Analysis of Cup Holder Products

Currently, anti-spill cup holder products can be broadly categorized into suction-based and edge-clamping types, with different companies adopting various production methods. Table 1 provides an overview of these products.

2.2. TRIZ

The Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ), derived from the Russian phrase Teoriya Resheniya Izobretatelskikh Zadatch, is a systematic problem-solving methodology that provides a structured approach for addressing technical contradictions and enhancing innovation in product design [7,8,9,10,11]. This methodology was originally developed in 1946 by Soviet inventor Genrich Altshuller and his colleagues in the former Soviet Union, based on an extensive analysis of global patent literature. Key tools such as the Contradiction Matrix and 40 Inventive Principles (Appendix A and Appendix B) assist designers in identifying core problems and formulating design strategies [12,13,14]. By guiding designers to analyze problems from multiple perspectives, TRIZ facilitates comprehensive solutions that improve product functionality and manufacturability while significantly reducing innovation lead times and enhancing production efficiency [15,16,17,18]. In this study, TRIZ is applied to guide the development of functional improvements in cup stability and usability.

2.3. Mind Map

Mind mapping is a visual thinking technique that supports the organization of ideas and creative exploration [19]. This method enhances comprehension and creativity by simultaneously engaging both hemispheres of the brain, making it a widely used technique for problem-solving and design ideation [20,21]. It is used in this study to structure initial design concepts and identify user needs during early stage of ideation.

2.4. Human Factors Engineering

Human factors engineering (HFE) focuses on optimizing the interaction between humans, products, and environments to enhance safety, efficiency, and user satisfaction [22,23,24]. By considering human behavior, capabilities, and limitations, HFE supports the design of systems and products that are more intuitive and accessible [25,26,27,28]. HFE principles are applied to ensure the cup design addresses ergonomic concerns, minimizes accidental misuse, and aligns with users’ physical and cognitive needs.

2.5. Universal Design

Universal Design (UD) promotes the creation of inclusive products usable by the broadest possible range of users without special adaptation [29,30,31]. UD is guided by core principles, including equitable use, flexibility, simplicity, perceptible information, error tolerance, low physical effort, and appropriate size and space. In this research, UD principles are referenced to ensure that the proposed design supports accessibility, comfort, and intuitive use for diverse user groups.

2.6. The Importance–Performance Analysis (IPA) and Kano Model

The Importance–Performance Analysis (IPA), proposed by Martilla and James in 1977, evaluates each product attribute based on two dimensions: perceived importance and satisfaction (performance) [32,33]. The average scores across these dimensions form the basis of a two-dimensional matrix divided into four quadrants, helping identify which features should be maintained, improved, or reconsidered (see Figure 1).
The Kano Model, developed by Noriaki Kano, offers a complementary perspective by categorizing product attributes into five types—Attractive, One-dimensional, Must-be, Indifferent, and Reverse—based on their influence on user satisfaction [34]. This categorization helps prioritize design efforts by identifying which features will delight customers, which are expected, and which may be unnecessary or even detrimental. In this study, the IPA–Kano integrated model is employed to systematically analyze user feedback, combining the strengths of both methods to identify and prioritize design features based on user expectations, satisfaction levels, and emotional responses.

2.7. Integrating TRIZ and Human-Centered Design (HCD)

While Human-Centered Design (HCD) prioritizes user needs and iterative development, TRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving) offers a structured, systematic approach to innovation, primarily focused on resolving technical contradictions [35]. Although TRIZ is well recognized for its effectiveness in addressing technical and engineering challenges, its application in design contexts that require deep user understanding, as emphasized in Human-Centered Design (HCD), remains relatively underexplored in the current literature. Most TRIZ-based approaches prioritize systematic problem-solving and innovation efficiency, whereas HCD places strong emphasis on user empathy, contextual inquiry, and iterative development. This contrast reveals a potential gap and highlights the opportunity for methodological integration. For instance, the Innovative Ergonomic Product Development (IEPD) method has demonstrated how TRIZ can be effectively applied within the solution-generation phase of HCD, resulting in outcomes that are both technically robust and closely aligned with user needs and expectations [36].

2.8. Questionnaire Design

The questionnaire employed in this study was developed based on the SERVQUAL model proposed by Parasuraman et al., which assesses service quality across five dimensions: tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy [37]. To ensure content validity and applicability to the research context, the initial questionnaire was refined through expert consultations. Five experts from academia, manufacturing, and the retail sector participated in this process, providing insights to enhance the clarity and relevance of the items.
Following this refinement, the questionnaire was structured into multiple sections, incorporating both Likert-scale and categorical response items to capture respondents’ perceptions comprehensively. A total of 185 valid responses were collected. To further analyze and validate the findings, the study integrates the IPA-KANO model, enabling a dual-perspective evaluation of customer expectations and satisfaction with the product.

3. Methodology

Based on the aforementioned objectives and literature review, this study aims to design a multifunctional anti-tip cup holder. To achieve these objectives, the study employs relevant patents, the TRIZ methodology, mind maps, Human Factors Engineering, and universal design principles. The methodological framework is shown in Figure 2.

3.1. Exploration of Innovative Designs for Cup Holder with Adjustable Fixation

This section focuses on the innovative design of cup holders using suction cups. The TRIZ methodology and mind maps are utilized to enhance the design of the cup holder, while human factors engineering and universal design principles are applied to make the cup holder more user-friendly. The details are as follows:

3.1.1. TRIZ Method for Innovative Cup Holder Design with Adjustable Fixation

Common fixed cup holders are typically of the table-edge clamp type, which can be inconvenient due to varying table thicknesses and space limitations. To resolve these limitations, this study proposes an innovative design for a cup holder that enables rapid fixation while maintaining anti-tip stability. If the structure of the cup holder is modified to improve its stability and enable rapid attachment, then performance features such as the weight-bearing capacity of the stationary object, the sustained duration of fixation, and the ease of manufacturing are enhanced. However, such modifications may also introduce negative effects, such as increased assembly time, added structural complexity, or greater difficulty in assessing functional performance.
Based on this contradiction, the study identified three improving parameters from the TRIZ 39 engineering characteristics: weight of stationary objects (Parameter No. 02), duration of action by a stationary object (Parameter No. 16), and ease of manufacture (Parameter No. 32). Correspondingly, the parameters representing possible deterioration include loss of time (No. 25), device complexity (No. 36), and difficulty of detecting and measuring (No. 37). These pairs of parameters were used to construct the technical contradiction matrix, as shown in Table 2, where the intersections point to relevant TRIZ inventive principles.
The inventive principles derived from the matrix intersections were analyzed, with those appearing more frequently considered more relevant to the design challenge. This selection approach, commonly adopted in TRIZ-related design practices and summarized by Chechurin and Borgianni [12], uses the frequency of occurrence as a practical indicator for identifying broadly applicable and potentially effective principles. In this case, mechanical substitution (Principle No. 28) appeared most frequently, followed by segmentation (Principle No. 1), preliminary action (Principle No. 10), copying (Principle No. 26), and transformation of properties (Principle No. 35). These results informed the design decisions in the subsequent stages. For instance, segmentation was applied by modularizing the suction mechanism, thereby improving maintenance and part replacement. The principle of universality was realized by designing the push rod to perform both the suction activation and the securing function, enhancing operational efficiency. In addition, the dynamic parts principle was employed by incorporating a sliding groove into the push rod structure, allowing the suction system to adapt flexibly to different surface conditions.

3.1.2. Mind Map Method for Innovative Cup Holder Design with Adjustable Fixation

To achieve innovative design for quick fixation on the tabletop and anti-tipping functionality, brainstorming was conducted using the mind map method for creative design ideation. After roughly analyzing four major fixation methods, feasible approaches were individually considered, as depicted in Figure 3. These mainly include (1) Self-weight Fixation, (2) Magnetic Fixation, (3) Clamp Fixation, and (4) Vacuum Fixation. Each method is explained in detail as follows:
  • Self-weight Fixation: The design principle involves utilizing the weight of the cup holder itself to stably place it on the tabletop, preventing tipping due to shaking or collisions. This method entails using heavier metal materials for the cup holder or adding weight to achieve the desired stability. However, increasing weight may lead to inconvenience in usage; thus, this approach is not adopted.
  • Magnetic Fixation: The design principle relies on using strong magnets or electromagnets to adhere to the tabletop, providing quick fixation and anti-tipping functionality. However, using magnets for fixation may be inconvenient due to environmental constraints and limitations posed by tabletop materials; thus, this approach is not adopted.
  • Clamp Fixation: The design principle involves utilizing spring clamps or clamp mechanisms to quickly secure the cup holder to the tabletop and prevent tipping due to collisions. However, variations in tabletop thickness may cause inconvenience in using spring clamps or clamp mechanisms; thus, this approach is not adopted.
  • Vacuum Fixation: The design principle utilizes vacuum pumps or vacuum suction cup structures to enable quick fixation of the cup holder to the tabletop, preventing tipping due to collisions. After considering the convenience of use, operational difficulty, and manufacturability, the vacuum suction cup coupled with a push rod mechanism is selected to achieve the innovative design of a cup holder that can be freely fixed and prevent tipping.
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Figure 3. Innovative ideation mind map for cup holder with adjustable fixation.
Figure 3. Innovative ideation mind map for cup holder with adjustable fixation.
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3.1.3. Human Factors Engineering for Innovative Cup Holder Design with Adjustable Fixation

In this study, human factors engineering was applied to enhance the usability, safety, and operational efficiency of the anti-tip multifunctional cup holder. Principles of human–machine interaction and control device design guided adjustments to the fixation mechanism, ensuring stable use across different environments while minimizing user effort.
In terms of human–machine systems, a suction cup mechanism is implemented to facilitate quick operation and error prevention. A single push rod with an arc-shaped handle allows intuitive and effortless activation, while a groove mechanism within the push rod drives a linkage system to generate suction, securing the cup holder to the tabletop. Releasing the suction requires a simple reverse push, ensuring convenient detachment. The design also incorporates bright colors and an ergonomic handle shape to enhance visibility and ease of use.
For control device design, the push rod mechanism is optimized for balanced load distribution, allowing users to hold the cup holder with one hand while operating the push rod with the other. The direction of movement aligns with the push rod’s operation to prevent errors, while a standardized single-directional push mechanism enhances intuitive use. The arc-shaped handle further improves recognition of the operating position, ensuring efficient and user-friendly interaction. Through these human factors engineering principles, the cup holder design enhances both functional performance and user experience.

3.1.4. Universal Design for Innovative Cup Holder Design with Adjustable Fixation

This study applies universal design principles to enhance the usability and accessibility of a multifunctional anti-tip cup holder with adjustable fixation. By integrating the principles of fair use, simplicity, and intuitive operation, the design ensures that users of varying abilities can operate the cup holder effortlessly with one hand, improving both convenience and functionality.
The fair use principle is addressed through the push rod handle design, allowing users to generate suction with a single-handed press. The handle’s size and shape are optimized to accommodate different users, ensuring inclusivity. Simplicity and intuitive use are achieved by incorporating bright colors into the push rod handle, enhancing visibility and enabling users to quickly locate and operate it. The principle of low physical effort is applied by improving the material and structure of the handle, reducing weight, and minimizing the force required for operation.
By integrating these universal design principles, the innovative cup holder enhances ease of use and accessibility while maintaining its core functionality of adjustable fixation, ultimately improving user experience across diverse needs.

3.2. Exploration of Innovative Designs for Cup Holder with Thermal Insulation and Heating Function

Individuals often encounter the gradual cooling of hot coffee or tea over time, affecting its flavor and enjoyment. Therefore, designing a cup holder with thermal insulation and a heating function to prevent the temperature drop of hot beverages has become essential. This innovative design process involves brainstorming with TRIZ methodology and mind mapping to improve the cup holder’s design. Additionally, incorporating principles from human factors engineering and universal design is crucial in creating an innovative cup holder with thermal insulation and heating capabilities.

3.2.1. TRIZ Method for Innovative Cup Holder Design with Thermal Insulation and Heating Function

To enhance user comfort and beverage temperature control, this study explores the innovative design of a cup holder that integrates thermal insulation and a heating function. If thermal insulation materials and heating components are added to improve temperature retention and heating reliability, then key performance aspects such as the quantity of thermal substance used, reliability of heating performance, and ease of repair are improved. However, such enhancements may also result in undesirable outcomes, including increased energy consumption, generation of potentially harmful surface heat, or higher structural complexity. In light of these contradictions, three improving parameters were selected from the TRIZ 39 engineering characteristics: quantity of substance (Parameter No. 26), reliability (Parameter No. 27), and ease of repair (Parameter No. 34). Correspondingly, potential deterioration parameters included loss of energy (Parameter No. 22), object-generated harmful factors (Parameter No. 31), and device complexity (Parameter No. 36). These improving and worsening parameters were used to construct a technical contradiction matrix, as illustrated in Table 3, where the intersections indicate suitable TRIZ inventive principles.
The inventive principles derived from the matrix guided the product development decisions. Segmentation (Principle No. 1) informed the modular division of components, such as control switches, heating elements, and insulation layers, facilitating targeted maintenance and system integration. The principle of beforehand compensation (Principle No. 11) was applied to mitigate the risk of overheating by incorporating preemptive insulation measures. Additionally, the optical property change principle (Principle No. 32) was utilized to enhance user safety through the implementation of LED indicators that signal the activation status of the heating function. Through these applications, the design addresses both functional requirements and user-centered considerations.

3.2.2. Mind Mapping Method for Innovative Cup Holder Design with Thermal Insulation and Heating Function

To ensure that the cup holder can keep the liquid at a constant temperature, it needs thermal insulation and a heating mechanism to continuously heat the liquid. Using the mind mapping method for brainstorming innovative design ideas, four main heating methods were analyzed, and feasible solutions were considered individually, as shown in Figure 4. The main heating methods identified are: (1) Green Energy Heating, (2) Open Flame Heating, (3) Electromagnetic Heating, and (4) Electric Heating. The details of each method are explained as follows:
  • Green Energy Heating: This design principle uses devices such as solar collectors to utilize solar radiation to heat the liquid in the cup, thereby achieving a constant temperature. However, the use of solar energy is influenced by weather conditions and location, which can lead to inconvenience. Therefore, this solution is not adopted.
  • Open Flame Heating: This design principle uses small gas heating devices or candle flames to heat the liquid in the cup. However, considering the relatively high temperature of the flame and the potential risk of fire and carbon dioxide generation, this solution poses safety risks and is therefore not adopted.
  • Electromagnetic Heating: This design principle is similar to microwave ovens, using microwaves to cause intense friction among the molecules within the liquid, generating heat to warm the liquid. However, due to the high-power requirements of microwave equipment and the need for additional protective measures to prevent microwave leakage, as well as the potential risk of injury, this solution is not adopted.
  • Electric Heating: This design principle converts electrical energy into thermal energy, using heating elements to provide thermal conduction or thermal radiation to heat the liquid. Considering the convenience and relative safety of operation, the solution involves combining heating elements with the cup holder to provide a heat source for maintaining the temperature of the liquid in the cup.
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Figure 4. Innovative ideation mind map for insulated and heated cup holder.
Figure 4. Innovative ideation mind map for insulated and heated cup holder.
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3.2.3. Human Factors Engineering for Innovative Cup Holder Design with Thermal Insulation and Heating Function

This study applies human factors engineering to optimize the usability and efficiency of a multifunctional anti-tip cup holder with heating functionality. By integrating human–machine systems and control device design, the study ensures intuitive operation, minimizes user effort, and enhances the overall drinking experience.
The human–machine system is designed to simplify user interaction through a single control switch, which activates the heating element and transfers heat via a conductive copper plate. This straightforward mechanism reduces cognitive load and enhances operational efficiency. A red LED power indicator provides clear visual feedback on the heating status, improving usability and safety.
For control device design, the system is structured to balance load distribution by allowing activation with a single button press. The two-stage switch ensures compatibility with user habits, reducing the risk of operational errors. Multi-functionality is achieved by integrating heating control into a single button, streamlining user actions. Standardization further enhances usability, as a consistent one-press activation minimizes confusion. To support easy recognition, the red LED indicator is employed due to its high visibility, leveraging visual communication principles to ensure users can quickly identify the operational status. Through these human factors engineering applications, the cup holder is designed for both functional efficiency and an improved user experience.

3.2.4. Universal Design for Innovative Cup Holder Design with Thermal Insulation and Heating Function

This study applies universal design principles to enhance the usability and accessibility of a multifunctional anti-tip cup holder with a heating function. By integrating equitable use, simplicity and intuitive operation, and low physical effort, the design ensures that users of different abilities can operate the heating function with ease, improving overall convenience and accessibility.
The principle of equitable use is implemented by designing a control switch that activates the heating element with a single press, making it accessible to a broad range of users. The switch size is optimized to accommodate various hand sizes, ensuring ease of operation. Simplicity and intuitive use are achieved through a bright-colored control switch, enhancing visibility and enabling users to quickly locate and activate the heating function. To reduce physical effort, the switch material and structure are refined to minimize the force required for activation, allowing users to operate it with minimal strain.
By incorporating these universal design principles, the heated cup holder not only improves functionality but also ensures a more user-friendly experience, making it accessible to diverse users with varying needs.

3.3. Exploration of Innovative Designs for Cup Holder with Anti-Fall and Shock Absorption Features

The material typically used for ordinary mugs is ceramic. Although ceramic has relatively low thermal conductivity, it still cannot effectively retain heat. Additionally, ceramic products are not resistant to impact and can easily crack or break upon collision. To prevent rapid heat dissipation and protect against impacts, innovative designs can incorporate drop-resistant and shock-absorbing features in the mug holder.

3.3.1. TRIZ Method for Innovative Cup Holder Design with Anti-Fall and Shock Absorption Features

To address the need for greater durability and user safety in portable containers, this study investigates an innovative mug holder design incorporating anti-fall and shock absorption capabilities. If the structural design of the holder is modified to enhance its shape, stability, and ease of operation, then its ability to withstand drops and reduce impact force is improved. However, such enhancements may also lead to increased weight of moving parts, introduce additional harmful forces acting on the object during use, or raise the overall complexity of the device. Based on this contradiction, three improving parameters from the TRIZ 39 engineering characteristics were selected: shape (Parameter No. 12), stability of the object (Parameter No. 13), and ease of operation (Parameter No. 33). The corresponding parameters representing potential deterioration included weight of moving object (Parameter No. 1), harmful factors acting on the object (Parameter No. 30), and complexity of the device (Parameter No. 36). These parameter pairs were used to construct a technical contradiction matrix, as presented in Table 4, with matrix intersections indicating potential inventive principles.
The inventive principles identified from the matrix were analyzed for relevance to the product’s functional and user-centered design needs. The principle of separation (Principle No. 2) and parameter change (Principle No. 35) appeared most frequently, suggesting their importance in resolving key contradictions in the design. Segmentation (Principle No. 1) was applied to separate the main mug holder structure from the protective shock-absorbing layer, allowing for targeted performance enhancements. To further improve cushioning and flexibility, flexible shells and thin films (Principle No. 30) were used within the holder’s internal structure. Finally, discarding and recovering (Principle No. 34) enabled a modular design, allowing components subject to wear to be easily replaced, thus increasing maintainability. These principles collectively supported a robust and user-friendly solution to ensure impact resistance without compromising usability.

3.3.2. Mind Mapping Method for Innovative Cup Holder Design with Anti-Fall and Shock Absorption Features

To prevent cups from tipping and spilling due to impact, as well as to avoid cup damage from collisions, a design that can secure the cup and absorb shock is needed. Using mind mapping for brainstorming, four primary methods were identified and analyzed for feasibility, as shown in Figure 5: (1) Shock-absorbing pad, (2) Hollow design, (3) Elastic materials, and (4) Porous materials. The detailed explanations of each method are as follows:
  • Shock-absorbing pad: The design principle involves using a rubber anti-vibration pad to secure the cup and absorb impact forces that could cause spills or breakage. However, due to the density characteristics of rubber, it cannot accommodate various cup sizes and can only be designed for a specific cup. Therefore, this method is not adopted.
  • Hollow Design: This method uses cushioning air cushions or bubble wrap, utilizing the bubbles to provide shock absorption and secure the cup. However, since bubble wrap is typically made from PE film, which is prone to damage, this method is not adopted.
  • Elastic Materials: This approach employs materials such as springs or elastic cords to use their inherent elasticity to cushion the cup against impact forces, preventing spillage. However, the fixed length and elasticity coefficients of springs and cords make them unsuitable for various cup sizes, so this method is not adopted.
  • Porous Materials: The principle involves using soft, porous materials such as shock-absorbing foam, which has a porous structure and collapsible, shock-absorbing properties. This material effectively absorbs vibrations and has enough elasticity to secure the cup, achieving both anti-shock and shock-absorbing effects. Therefore, this method is adopted.
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Figure 5. Innovative ideation mind map for cup holder with anti-fall and shock absorption features.
Figure 5. Innovative ideation mind map for cup holder with anti-fall and shock absorption features.
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3.3.3. Human Factors Engineering for Innovative Cup Holder Design with Anti-Fall and Shock Absorption Features

This study applies human factors engineering to enhance the usability and safety of a multifunctional anti-tip cup holder, focusing on impact absorption and user-friendly operation. By incorporating human–machine systems and control device design, the product minimizes the risk of spills and breakage while ensuring intuitive and effortless use.
The human–machine system integrates shock-absorbing foam at the upper inner edge of the holder, designed to secure mugs through compression. A side opening allows users to place the cup into the holder with ease, while the foam’s porous structure effectively absorbs impact energy, preventing damage from accidental collisions. This approach aligns with ergonomic principles by reducing user effort and enhancing operational efficiency.
In the control device design, load distribution is optimized so that users can stabilize their mugs with a single hand motion. Compatibility is achieved through a universal opening that accommodates various mug handles, ensuring ease of use. The multifunctionality of the shock-absorbing foam allows it to both stabilize the cup and mitigate vibrations. Standardization is incorporated through a single designated entry point, reducing user errors. For easy recognition, the holder’s intuitive design ensures users can quickly and correctly place their mugs. By applying human factors engineering, this design improves safety, convenience, and overall user experience.

3.3.4. Universal Design for Innovative Cup Holder Design with Anti-Fall and Shock Absorption Features

This study applies universal design principles to enhance the usability and accessibility of a multifunctional anti-tip cup holder with shock-absorbing functionality. By integrating equitable use, simplicity and intuitive operation, and low physical effort, the design ensures that users of varying abilities can easily and effectively secure their cups, enhancing both convenience and safety.
The principle of equitable use is implemented by designing a structure that allows users to simply place the mug into the holder without requiring precise alignment or additional adjustments. This ensures that the anti-shock and shock-absorbing functions are accessible to all users, regardless of their physical capabilities. Simplicity and intuitive use are achieved by integrating a single opening in the holder and utilizing shock-absorbing foam. The unidirectional opening prevents incorrect placement, making the operation straightforward and reducing the likelihood of errors. To support low physical effort, the foam is designed to be elastic and compressible, allowing users to secure their mugs with minimal force.
By incorporating these universal design principles, the innovative cup holder enhances user experience through an intuitive, accessible, and effort-saving design, ensuring secure and stable use across diverse user needs.

4. Product Design

This study aims to address the disadvantages and leverage the advantages of currently available cup holders, addressing inconveniences encountered in daily life. The goal is to design a “multi-functional anti-tipping cup holder” that can solve common user problems, such as preventing the cup from tipping over due to accidental collisions and maintaining the temperature of the liquid in the cup. To achieve this objective, the study involves an innovative design process for the multi-functional anti-tipping cup holder. This process includes market product analysis, patent analysis, the TRIZ technical contradiction matrix, the 40 inventive principles, mind mapping, ergonomic and universal design analysis, and structural design and manufacturing.
The design results for the product are as follows:
  • Adjustable Fixation: Utilizes a push rod mechanism and a suction cup mechanism to allow the cup holder to be fixed in any desired position.
  • Thermal Insulation and Heating Function: Uses heating chips and insulating pads, along with control buttons, to maintain and heat the liquid in the cup.
  • Anti-Fall and Shock Absorption Features: Incorporates shock-absorbing foam installed in the cup holder to provide drop resistance and shock absorption.

4.1. Structure of the Multi-Functional Anti-Tipping Cup Holder

Based on the application of TRIZ inventive principles, mind mapping, ergonomic design, and universal design, the main issues with commercial cup holders are identified as: (1) inability to effectively secure the cup, (2) inability to keep the liquid in the cup warm, and (3) lack of drop and shock resistance.
To address the issue of securing the cup, a simple and reliable design using a push rod and suction cup mechanism is implemented to hold the cup firmly on a surface. For the problem of maintaining the temperature of the liquid, a heating structure using heating elements, conductive copper sheets, and insulating pads, combined with control switches and power indicators, is designed to keep the liquid warm.
To address drop and shock resistance, the cup holder incorporates a suction cup mechanism for securing the cup and porous sponge material inside the holder to protect the cup from breaking due to external impacts. The overall appearance of the multi-functional anti-tipping cup holder is shown in Figure 6.

4.2. Design with Adjustable Fixation

The securing and anti-tipping function consists of five main components, as shown in Figure 7: the suction cup base, push rod handle, push rod, suction cup support rod, and suction cup. These five components combine to create the multi-functional anti-tipping cup holder that can be quickly secured and prevent tipping. When the push rod handle is activated, as shown in Figure 8, it moves the suction cup support shaft on the push rod, causing the support shaft to move up and down between the high and low points of the push rod’s inclined guide slot, as shown in Figure 9. This action generates a vacuum or releases the suction cup, enabling the cup holder to be securely fixed to the surface, thus providing quick securing and anti-tipping functionality.

4.3. Design with Thermal Insulation and Heating Function

The heat preservation and heating design consists of five parts. A control switch with a power indicator light makes operation simple and intuitive, allowing users to easily judge the heating status by the indicator light. The heating element, conductive copper sheet, and insulation pad work together to provide consistent heating, ensuring that the liquid in the mug stays warm without cooling down, thus maintaining drinking comfort. This design allows the cup holder to achieve the function of heat preservation and heating, as shown in Figure 10.

4.4. Design with Anti-Fall and Shock Absorption Features

Ordinary mugs are usually made of ceramic, which is prone to cracking or breaking upon impact. To prevent the cup from breaking due to collisions, an innovative design for a drop-resistant and shock-absorbing cup holder has been developed. This design utilizes shock-absorbing foam to achieve these functions. The shock-absorbing foam inside the cup holder provides elasticity and cushioning, making the holder both drop-resistant and shock-absorbing, as shown in Figure 11.

4.5. Analysis of IPA and Kano Model

A total of 185 respondents participated in the survey, comprising 89 males and 96 females. The majority of respondents were aged between 30 and 49 years, with most working in administrative and service positions. Additionally, 77.28% of participants held a university degree or higher, and over 50% had a monthly income between 30,001 and 50,000 TWD. The participant characteristics are presented in Table 5. These demographic characteristics provide insight into the product’s target market and help determine which features hold the greatest value for different consumer segments.
Sixteen service quality items were selected based on a literature review, expert consultation, and preliminary user interviews. These items reflect key functional and experiential aspects of the cup holder, such as stability, durability, temperature control precision, and energy efficiency. By combining IPA and Kano analysis, this study evaluates the importance and satisfaction levels of the multi-functional anti-tipping cup holder across five major dimensions. Statistical analysis revealed that the overall average importance score was 4.347, while the overall average satisfaction score was 3.943. The results of the IPA-Kano analysis are presented in Table 6, which categorizes the 16 service quality attributes into four quadrants.
Attributes in Quadrant I, such as Fixed Function, Reliable Shock and Impact Resistance, and User-Friendly Operation, demonstrate high importance and satisfaction, indicating key strengths that should be maintained. Quadrant III highlights areas requiring urgent improvement, including Brand Reputation and Temperature Control Precision, as they exhibit high importance but low performance. Attributes in Quadrant II, such as Attractive Appearance Design, show relatively high satisfaction but lower importance, suggesting a possible overinvestment. Meanwhile, Quadrant IV includes Energy Consumption Efficiency and Maintenance and Upkeep Costs, which currently hold lower importance but may require future attention.

5. Discussion

The results of this study demonstrate the effectiveness of integrating TRIZ methodology with human-centered design principles in developing a multifunctional cup holder that enhances stability, usability, and thermal performance. By systematically addressing common issues such as accidental spills, heat retention, and impact resistance, the proposed design offers a practical and sustainable solution for everyday beverage consumption.
The application of TRIZ methodology played a crucial role in resolving design contradictions and optimizing product functionality. The integration of a vacuum-based adjustable fixation system successfully enhances stability, reducing the risk of spills in dynamic environments such as offices and vehicles. The controlled heating mechanism addresses the challenge of maintaining beverage temperature without excessive energy consumption, while the shock-absorbing structure contributes to product durability and user safety. These findings align with previous studies highlighting the advantages of systematic innovation methods in consumer product design [10,11,13,14,38,39,40,41].
Furthermore, the Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA) and Kano model provided valuable insights into user perceptions and expectations. The results indicate that attributes such as stability, heating function, and impact resistance are highly valued by users and contribute significantly to overall satisfaction. However, certain areas, such as temperature control precision and energy efficiency, require further refinement to fully meet user needs. These findings underscore the importance of continuous iteration in product development to optimize functionality and user experience [42,43].
Despite the promising outcomes, this study has several limitations. The long-term durability of the adjustable fixation and heating components requires further testing under various usage conditions. Additionally, the maintenance and cleaning process, particularly in scenarios where hot beverages are spilled, should be further examined to ensure product longevity and hygiene. Another limitation is the absence of mechanical engineering analyses, such as stress or statics simulations, which could provide deeper insights into structural integrity and material optimization. Furthermore, this study did not include a cost–benefit analysis or market benchmarking, which are important for assessing economic feasibility and product competitiveness. Future research should therefore explore material innovations, self-cleaning mechanisms, mechanical simulations, and cost analysis to enhance the practicality, structural robustness, and market potential of the design.

6. Conclusions

This study presents a multifunctional cup holder designed to enhance safety, stability, and usability by integrating TRIZ methodology with human-centered design principles. Addressing common issues such as accidental spills, heat loss, and impact resistance, the proposed design incorporates an adjustable fixation system, a controlled heating mechanism, and a shock-absorbing structure. The application of systematic innovation techniques not only resolves design contradictions but also optimizes product performance based on user needs and expectations.
The findings highlight the effectiveness of structured problem-solving approaches in consumer product development. The integration of Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA) and the Kano model provides valuable insights into user preferences, confirming that features such as stability, heating functionality, and impact resistance significantly enhance overall satisfaction. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of balancing functionality with energy efficiency and long-term durability. Future research should focus on refining temperature control mechanisms, improving energy consumption efficiency, and exploring sustainable materials to enhance product longevity and environmental impact. By demonstrating the practical benefits of combining TRIZ and human-centered design, this study contributes to the development of innovative, user-friendly, and sustainable product solutions.

7. Patents

The research findings were granted an invention patent by the Intellectual Property Office, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Republic of China (Patent No. I719889).

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, K.-C.Y., K.-Y.L., W.-L.H., W.-S.H., J.-R.X. and Y.-J.T.; methodology, K.-C.Y., C.-C.L., K.-Y.L., W.-L.H., W.-S.H., J.-R.X. and Y.-J.T.; software, K.-C.Y., C.-C.L., K.-Y.L., W.-L.H., W.-S.H., J.-R.X. and Y.-J.T.; validation, S.-C.Y., H.-L.H., Y.-C.L., C.-Y.L. and Y.-J.T.; formal analysis, K.-C.Y., K.-Y.L., W.-L.H., W.-S.H., J.-R.X. and Y.-J.T.; investigation, K.-C.Y., K.-Y.L., W.-L.H., W.-S.H., J.-R.X. and Y.-J.T.; resources, K.-C.Y., K.-Y.L., W.-L.H., W.-S.H., J.-R.X. and Y.-J.T.; data curation, K.-C.Y., K.-Y.L., W.-L.H., W.-S.H., J.-R.X. and Y.-J.T.; writing—original draft preparation, K.-C.Y., C.-C.L., K.-Y.L., W.-L.H., W.-S.H., J.-R.X., S.-C.Y., H.-L.H., Y.-C.L., C.-Y.L. and Y.-J.T.; writing—review and editing, K.-C.Y., C.-C.L., K.-Y.L., W.-L.H., W.-S.H., J.-R.X., S.-C.Y., H.-L.H., Y.-C.L., C.-Y.L. and Y.-J.T.; visualization, K.-C.Y., K.-Y.L., W.-L.H., W.-S.H., J.-R.X. and Y.-J.T.; supervision, W.-L.H., W.-S.H. and J.-R.X.; project administration, W.-L.H., W.-S.H. and J.-R.X.; funding acquisition, C.-C.L., W.-L.H., W.-S.H. and J.-R.X. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This research was partially supported by the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), Taiwan, under Grant No. NSTC 112-2410-H-018-030-MY3.

Institutional Review Board Statement

Ethics approval was not required for this study, as it falls within the scope of human research cases exempted from review by the Ethics Review Committee, in accordance with local legislation (https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/ListPage/tTG8SBJmXOyepzL2GdTcPg, accessed on 27 July 2025).

Informed Consent Statement

Informed consent was obtained from all participants involved in the study.

Data Availability Statement

The data used to support the findings of this study are included in the article.

Acknowledgments

This study acknowledges the technical support provided by the Department of Electrical and Mechanical Technology, National Changhua University of Education. The authors would like to express their sincere gratitude to the Academic Editor, the associated editors of this journal, and the anonymous reviewers for their meticulous review of our manuscript and their numerous constructive comments and suggestions.

Conflicts of Interest

Author Chun-Chung Liao was employed by Shenghe Technology Co., Ltd., Author Wei-Sho Ho was employed by Hundred Rivers Co., Ltd., and Author Jing-Ran Xu was employed by Sheng Jen Industrial Co., Ltd. The remaining authors declare that they have no commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as potential conflicts of interest related to this research.

Appendix A

Table A1. Summary of the 39 engineering parameters.
Table A1. Summary of the 39 engineering parameters.
1. Weight of moving object11. Stress or pressure21. Power31. Object-generated harmful factors
2. Weight of stationary object12. Shape22. Loss of energy32. Ease of manufacture
3. Length of moving object13. Stability of the object’s composition23. Loss of substance33. Ease of operation
4. Length of stationary object14. Strength24. Loss of information34. Ease of repair
5. Area of moving object15. Duration of action by a moving object25. Loss of time35. Adaptability or versatility
6. Area of stationary object16. Duration of action by a stationary object26. Quantity of substance/the matter36. Device complexity
7. Volume of moving object17. Temperature27. Reliability37. Difficulty of detecting and measuring
8. Volume of stationary object18. Illumination intensity28. Measurement accuracy38. Extent of automation
9. Speed19. Use of energy by moving object29. Manufacturing precision39. Productivity
10. Force20. Use of energy by stationary object30. External harm affects the object

Appendix B

Table A2. Summary of the 40 invention principles.
Table A2. Summary of the 40 invention principles.
1. Segmentation11. Beforehand cushioning21. Skipping31. Porous material
2. Tanking out12. Equipotentiality22. Convert harm into benefit32. Changing the color
3. Local quality13. Do it in reverse23. Feedback33. Homogeneity
4. Asymmetry14. Spheroidality–curvature24. Intermediary34. Discarding and recovering
5. Merging15. Dynamicity25. Self-service35. Transformation of properties
6. Universality16. Partial or excessive actions26. Copying36. Phase transition
7. Nested doll17. Transition into a new dimension27. Cheap, short-lived objects37. Thermal expansion
8. Anti-weight18. Mechanical vibration28. Replacement of mechanical system38. Accelerated oxidation
9. Prior anti-action19. Periodic action29. Pneumatics and hydraulics39. Inert environment
10. Preliminary action20. Continuity of useful action30. Flexible shells or thin films40. Composite materials

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Figure 1. IPA quadrants.
Figure 1. IPA quadrants.
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Figure 2. Methodological framework.
Figure 2. Methodological framework.
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Figure 6. Exterior view of multi-functional anti-fall cup holder.
Figure 6. Exterior view of multi-functional anti-fall cup holder.
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Figure 7. Exploded view of adjustable fixation mechanism.
Figure 7. Exploded view of adjustable fixation mechanism.
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Figure 8. Suction cup in relaxed state.
Figure 8. Suction cup in relaxed state.
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Figure 9. Suction cup in suction state.
Figure 9. Suction cup in suction state.
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Figure 10. Illustration of insulation and heating mechanism.
Figure 10. Illustration of insulation and heating mechanism.
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Figure 11. Illustration of anti-fall and shock absorption mechanism.
Figure 11. Illustration of anti-fall and shock absorption mechanism.
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Table 1. Market analysis of cup holder products.
Table 1. Market analysis of cup holder products.
Product TypeFunction
Table CoasterDesigned for securely placing drinks on a table, capable of holding various cups and bottles, but lacks heating functionality.
Silicone Anti-Spill Drink RingUtilizes patented hole design, made of rubber with high elasticity and stretchability, suitable for fixing long-necked containers, prevents tipping, but only suitable for slender containers.
Table Edge Cup HolderFeatures a strong spring clip that attaches to the edge of a table to prevent the cup from tipping but only fits specific table thicknesses and is easily affected by external forces.
Couch CoasterAllows users to securely place drinks on a sofa, accommodates various bottle types, and fits different shapes and sizes of sofa armrests, but its stability relies on its weight and is only suitable for seats with armrests.
Table 2. Technical contradiction matrix for cup holder with adjustable fixation.
Table 2. Technical contradiction matrix for cup holder with adjustable fixation.
Avoid Deterioration 25. Loss of Time36. Device Complexity37. Difficulty of Detecting and Measuring
Want to Improve
2. Weight of stationary objects10, 2001, 1025, 28
35, 2626, 3917, 15
16. Duration of action by a stationary object28, 20 25, 34
10, 16 06, 35
32. Ease of manufacture35, 2827, 2606, 28
34, 040111, 01
Table 3. Technical contradiction matrix for insulated and heated cup holder.
Table 3. Technical contradiction matrix for insulated and heated cup holder.
Avoid Deterioration22. Loss of Energy31. Object-Generated Harmful Factors36. Device Complexity
Want to Improve
26. Quantity of substance07, 1803, 3503, 13
2540, 3927, 10
27. Reliability10, 1135, 0213, 35
3540, 2601
34. Ease of repair15, 01 35, 01
32, 19 13, 11
Table 4. Technical contradiction matrix for cup holder with anti-fall and shock absorption features.
Table 4. Technical contradiction matrix for cup holder with anti-fall and shock absorption features.
Avoid Deterioration1. Weight of Moving Objects30. External Harm Affects the Object36. Device Complexity
Want to Improve
12. Shape08, 1022, 0116, 29
29, 4002, 3501, 28
13. Stability of object’s composition21, 3535, 2402, 35
02, 3930, 1822, 26
33. Ease of operation25, 0202, 2532, 26
13, 1528, 3912, 17
Table 5. Participant characteristics.
Table 5. Participant characteristics.
VariablesNumbersPercentage (%)
Gender
Male8948.10%
Female9651.89%
Age
20–293418.37%
30–396635.67%
40–494323.24%
≥504222.70%
Occupation
Administrative6132.97%
Skilled Worker3518.91%
Service Worker4323.24%
Education179.18%
Homemaker/Retired2915.67%
Education Level
Junior High School31.62%
Senior High School3921.08%
University10958.91%
Graduate School3418.37%
Annual Income
≤10,000 (TWD)84.32%
10,001–30,000 (TWD)5730.81%
30,001–50,000 (TWD)9350.27%
50,001–60,000 (TWD)126.48%
>60,000 (TWD)158.10%
Table 6. Results of IPA and Kano model analysis.
Table 6. Results of IPA and Kano model analysis.
Quadrant I (For Its Advantage, It Needs to Continue to Maintain)
Service quality itemsKanoImportance
1. Fixed FunctionO4.231
2. Thermal Insulation and Heating FunctionM4.087
3. Reliable Shock and Impact ResistanceM4.27
4. User-Friendly OperationA4.19
5. StabilityA4.172
8. DurabilityM4.2
10. Color VarietyI4.263
13. Heating SpeedO4.181
14. Material Eco-FriendlinessO4.052
15. After-Sales Service QualityI3.976
Quadrant II (Oversupply, consumption costs)
9. Attractive Appearance DesignA3.941
Quadrant III (Major deficiencies, need immediate improvement)
6. Brand ReputationI4.03
7. Temperature Control PrecisionM3.978
Quadrant IV (Sub-improvement targets, future potential problems)
11. Effectiveness of Heating FunctionO3.929
12. Energy Consumption EfficiencyR3.867
16. Maintenance and Upkeep CostsR3.87
Note: The Kano model was applied to classify quality attributes into five categories: Attractive Quality (A), One-dimensional Quality (O), Must-be Quality (M), Indifferent Quality (I), and Reverse Quality (R).
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MDPI and ACS Style

Yao, K.-C.; Liao, C.-C.; Li, K.-Y.; Huang, W.-L.; Ho, W.-S.; Xu, J.-R.; Yang, S.-C.; Hsiao, H.-L.; Lin, Y.-C.; Lai, C.-Y.; et al. Integrating TRIZ Methodology in Human-Centered Design: Developing a Multifunctional, Sustainable Cup Holder. Sustainability 2025, 17, 7288. https://doi.org/10.3390/su17167288

AMA Style

Yao K-C, Liao C-C, Li K-Y, Huang W-L, Ho W-S, Xu J-R, Yang S-C, Hsiao H-L, Lin Y-C, Lai C-Y, et al. Integrating TRIZ Methodology in Human-Centered Design: Developing a Multifunctional, Sustainable Cup Holder. Sustainability. 2025; 17(16):7288. https://doi.org/10.3390/su17167288

Chicago/Turabian Style

Yao, Kai-Chao, Chun-Chung Liao, Kuo-Yi Li, Wei-Lun Huang, Wei-Sho Ho, Jing-Ran Xu, Shu-Chen Yang, Hui-Ling Hsiao, Yin-Chi Lin, Ching-Yi Lai, and et al. 2025. "Integrating TRIZ Methodology in Human-Centered Design: Developing a Multifunctional, Sustainable Cup Holder" Sustainability 17, no. 16: 7288. https://doi.org/10.3390/su17167288

APA Style

Yao, K.-C., Liao, C.-C., Li, K.-Y., Huang, W.-L., Ho, W.-S., Xu, J.-R., Yang, S.-C., Hsiao, H.-L., Lin, Y.-C., Lai, C.-Y., & Tseng, Y.-J. (2025). Integrating TRIZ Methodology in Human-Centered Design: Developing a Multifunctional, Sustainable Cup Holder. Sustainability, 17(16), 7288. https://doi.org/10.3390/su17167288

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