“Divergent” cross-domain stretching for technology fusion: validating the knowledge partition search model using patent data

Technology fusion refers to the phenomenon in which distinct technology domains overlap. Despite its importance in technology innovation and evolution, few studies have explored the general pattern of the cross-domain search process leading to technology fusion. This paper proposes that the stretching between distinct technology domains could be viewed as searching in a two-dimensional knowledge partition landscape and then empirically validates the model based on a large patent dataset derived from the U.S. Patent and Trade Office (USPTO). The findings show that the general pattern of the search processes leading to technology fusion could be viewed as searching across a broad technology scope to identify limited valuable linking points within existing technology domains, and the search processes are mainly “divergent”; that is, innovative agents gradually extend the search scope to pursue new hybrid technologies. However, the cross-domain search would be more targeted if the two technology domains were closer to each other. In addition, compared to searching across a broader technology scope, digging in certain technology areas is more important for the generation of new high-impact hybrid technologies. This study provides a novel perspective for understanding the new knowledge creation process and technology fusion.