6. Vạn năng

Nguyên tắc con

1. Let one object perform several functions so other objects are no longer needed
2. Gather the needed functions into a single object

Ví dụ

• A travel toothbrush whose handle stores toothpaste
• A walking stick that doubles as a seat
• A smartphone that replaces a camera, phone and map

Ứng dụng theo lĩnh vực

• mechanical: A separate frame plus body panels is heavy. A body whose skin also carries the loads needs no separate frame and weighs less.
• electronics: A display plus a keypad makes a device bigger. A screen that both shows and takes touch input removes the keypad and leaves room for a larger screen.
• medical: Separate devices for ECG, oxygen saturation and blood pressure crowd the bedside with cables. One monitor that gathers these measurements shows them together on one screen.
• everyday: A separate shoe cabinet eats up a small entrance. Making the entrance step a hollow storage box removes the need for one.