IdeationFX is best understood not as a single application but as a layered thinking system.

Separating the framework into layers clarifies how the system works and how new tools or applications can be built without changing the core protocol.

The three layers are:

  1. Protocol Layer
  2. Tool Layer
  3. Application Layer

Layer 1 — Protocol Layer

The Protocol Layer defines the rules governing human–AI thinking sessions.

Core primitives include:

Frame

A Frame Card defines the object of work for the current session.

Every session answers two questions:

  • What are we actually trying to do?
  • What counts as “done for now”?

No tools run without an active frame.

Mode

A Mode represents a thinking intent such as:

  • Clarify the Work
  • Break Through Stuck
  • Turn Idea into Plan
  • Stress-Test an Idea

Each Mode maps to a predefined tool path.

Tool Path

A tool path ensures thinking follows a diagnostic sequence rather than jumping directly to solutions.

Human Authority

The AI may classify, recommend, and detect drift, but the human retains final decision authority.

Drift Detection

If work diverges from the defined frame, the system recommends refreshing the frame before continuing.

Layer 2 — Tool Layer

The Tool Layer defines the cognitive operations available during thinking.

Examples include:

  • WTF Tool — name the actual work
  • Raccoon Priors — gather fragments
  • Hole & Ladder — determine solvability
  • Red String — sequence steps
  • Battery Check — tired vs stuck
  • Beautiful Mind Filter — test elegant ideas

These tools function as thinking prompts rather than commands.

Layer 3 — Application Layer

The Application Layer consists of software environments that implement the protocol.

Thinky McThoughtface

Thinky is a reference console designed to demonstrate IdeationFX in practice.

It focuses on:

  • Frame Cards
  • Mode selection
  • Tool paths
  • Visible interaction flow

Thinky is intentionally minimal and serves as a teaching artifact rather than a full application.

Why the Layers Matter

Separating IdeationFX into layers allows the framework to evolve while maintaining conceptual clarity:

  • Protocol defines thinking structure
  • Tools provide cognitive operations
  • Applications demonstrate real usage