TRIZ evolution of black oil coker units

TRIZ-evolutionary approach provides an opportunity to list analyzed systems in order of increasing ideality. Within the meaning of TRIZ, ideality is the ratio of the sum of parameters that characterize benefits to the sum of parameters that characterize costs. Generally, ideality estimation is characterized by the main technological parameter. Super-system tends to increasing ideality of the analyzed system, while its inner contradictions prevent the ideality increase. Further development of the system occurs when contradictions are resolved through the use of TRIZ tools (inventive principles, Su-field analysis, trends of systems development, etc.). The tools are used consciously or unconsciously. Thus, the evolution of systems is being formed in the way 'from contradiction to contradiction'. Such a forming-up allows not only systematizing knowledge about analyzed systems, but also offering new high-efficient and powerful solutions. The paper represents the results of knowledge systematization about black oil coking units (from horizontal vessels trough delayed coker units to continuous carbonizers). Main contradictions that arise in the process of coker unit evolution are identified and the TRIZ tools that resolve these contradictions are described. Capabilities of obtaining new and effective solutions by resolving contradictions are demonstrated. The paper is illustrated by the significant number of patents, which also include patents submitted for registration by the authors.