A hybrid method to trace technology evolution pathways: a case study of 3D printing

Ying Huang, Donghua Zhu, Yue Qian, Yi Zhang, Alan L. Porter, Yuqin Liu and Ying Guo ()
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Ying Huang: Beijing Institute of Technology
Donghua Zhu: Beijing Institute of Technology
Yue Qian: Beijing Institute of Technology
Yi Zhang: Beijing Institute of Technology
Alan L. Porter: Georgia Institute of Technology
Yuqin Liu: Beijing Institute of Graphic Communication
Ying Guo: Beijing Institute of Technology

Scientometrics, 2017, vol. 111, issue 1, No 11, 185-204

Abstract: Abstract Whether it be for countries to improve the ability to undertake independent innovation or for enterprises to enhance their international competitiveness, tracing historical progression and forecasting future trends of technology evolution is essential for formulating technology strategies and policies. In this paper, we apply co-classification analysis to reveal the technical evolution process of a certain technical field, use co-word analysis to extract implicit or unknown patterns and topics, and employ main path analysis to discover significant clues about technology hotspots and development prospects. We illustrate this hybrid approach with 3D printing, referring to various technologies and processes used to synthesize a three-dimensional object. Results show how our method offers technical insights and traces technology evolution pathways, and then helps decision-makers guide technology development.

Keywords: Tech mining; Technology innovation; Technology evolution; Main path analysis; 3D printing (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2017
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (24)

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DOI: 10.1007/s11192-017-2271-8

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