Research on Technology Convergence Based on Patent Knowledge Flow Network - A Case Study of Industrial Robotics

Significant convergence has occurred between new-generation artificial intelligence technology and industrial robot technology. However., there are still limitations in the research to use quantitative methods to analyze the technology convergence process. This study proposes to analyze the technical knowledge contained in patent data from the perspective of knowledge flow, to describe the development trend of technology convergence by building a patent knowledge flow network and technology convergence network, to identify the technology convergence path and key convergence components, and to conduct empirical research in the field of industrial robots. The study has identified the technology convergence clusters with high technical control force and high technical value. The results can support relevant researchers to grasp technological opportunities in advance in the rapid development of industrial robots.