Mapping technological trajectories as the main paths of knowledge flow: Evidence from printers

Abstract

AbstractIn this paper, we recognize that technological trajectories can be modeled as a series of problem-solving activities, manifesting the cyclical pattern of divergence–convergence knowledge flow. This recognition is applied to study the technological development of the thermal inkjet print head, using main path analysis and an assignee cross-citation network. Our analysis shows that the thermal inkjet print head experienced three cycles of divergence–convergence knowledge flow. Each of the cycles was evidently characterized by a problem of most concern and a referred solution. Our research contributes to explaining why, when, and how trajectories diverge and converge cyclically.