Abstract: With the continuous progress of beneficiation technology, the flotation processes and equipment have also developed rapidly. In order to continuously optimize and innovate equipment, guided by the theory of technological evolution, the evolution direction of flotation machines is predicted. Using representative indicators in patents, the position of the flotation machine in its life cycle is comprehensively determined; and combining with the corresponding evolutionary laws, the evolutionary direction of the flotation machine is predicted, thus to construct a highly ideal innovative solution. The results indicate that the theory of technological evolution can effectively predict the future development direction of products, providing a new exploration approach for product innovation.