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Examples

Architecture

  • Prefer straight corridors in buildings
  • When multiple toilets exist, keep left/right consistency across the building

Design

  • Prefer functional solutions over aesthetic ones

Engineering

  • Prefer passive solutions over active ones
  • Prefer mechanical solutions over complex electronic systems

Ergonomics

  • Security access scanners should be on the right

Hygiene

  • Use foot-operated mechanical systems instead of powered no-touch devices

Logistics

  • Aircraft boarding: window seats first, aisle last; rear first, not last

Transport

  • Public transport end stations should start with different letters
  • A transport line ID must never map to multiple routes
  • Use clear, distinguishable colors for lines
  • Different transport modes should not share numbering systems
  • Each platform must have a unique, consistent name
  • If a street is too narrow, avoid cross-bus circulation

Prefer passive solutions over active ones

Friction: Lower failure rate, lower maintenance.

#engineering #reliability

Why this matters

Active systems (sensors, motors, electronics) require power, maintenance, and updates. They fail. Passive systems (gravity, optics, mechanics) just work.

Good Sense principle

A ramp never runs out of batteries. A painted line never has a software bug. Always check if a passive solution exists before specifying an active one.

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