An Approach to Construct Technological Convergence Networks Across Different IPC Hierarchies and Identify Key Technology Fields

The technological convergence network (TCN) is an effective method to identify the advancement of technology convergence. However, the previous TCN investigations are limited to a single level of International Patent Classification (IPC) rather than different IPC hierarchies, which can only provide decision support for policy makers with one dimension instead of various ones. In this article, we propose a new approach to construct TCNs across different IPC hierarchies based on technology coclassification analysis, and further identify key technology fields by employing the indicator of betweenness centrality in the TCNs from any IPC hierarchy. This article makes two important contributions. First, theoretically, our article is to contribute to understanding the advancement of technological convergence from various IPC hierarchies, rather than a single IPC level. Second, methodologically, the new approach we propose can benefit decision makers serving at various levels of technology management agencies. We conclude possible implications and future directions.