Influences on Technological Innovation PDF

INFLUENCES ON TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION Definition As time goes by, new technological devices appear, which, previously, would have seemed like science fiction. And not only do new devices appear, but those that already exist are constantly being improved. eg: if you compare the prehistoric wheel and...

INFLUENCES ON TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION Definition As time goes by, new technological devices appear, which, previously, would have seemed like science fiction. And not only do new devices appear, but those that already exist are constantly being improved. eg: if you compare the prehistoric wheel and the modern wheel, you will find huge differences--yet these vast differences are the result of many small improvements made gradually over time. eg: The vacuum cleaner allows us to clean the floor of our houses faster and easier, without having to use the dustpan and raising dust that will later accumulate on the furniture. MAIN FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE TECHNOLOGICAL EVOLUTION sCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE Science and technology always go hand in hand. Scientific discoveries allow us to develop new objects and improve upon those that already exist. For example, before a motor for this vacuum cleaner could be built, scientists had to first explain electromagnetic phenomena, because, without this knowledge, engineers would not have been able to develop electrical machines. NEW MATERIALS In order for technology to evolve, it is also necessary to have the appropriate materials. The development of new materials is one of the disciplines most closely connected to the evolution of technology. Each new material provides new properties, which gives new possibilities for the improvement of technological objects. Clearly, without plastic, we could not make the vacuum cleaner in our example. NEW TOOLS In addition to new materials, we also need new tools to facilitate certain tasks. These tools can range from giant machines, like a tunnel boring machine, to a simple pulley. To build the vacuum cleaner we have to join the pieces with screws, which means, we’re going to need a screwdriver.nWe also need tin soldering irons for the electronic circuits and special machines for molding the plastic. If we were making a broom instead, we would need different, much simpler tools. NEW METHODS The way things are made has changed a lot in the past. Artisan work and crafts are not as common as they used to be. Nowadays, most things are made in big factories. These factories use assembly lines where each worker does one specific job over and over to make things faster. With complex products, we need experts at each step. All this teamwork, with specialized workers and assembly lines, makes it possible to make complex things at a lower cost. We've shifted from one person doing everything to many people with special skills working together, and that takes us to the next point. Computer Science & Robotics Today, you cannot have an understanding of technological evolution without talking about COMPUTERS AND ROBOTICS Computer science and robotics, together with artificial intelligence, are part of a new industrial revolution… a revolution that has only just begun. In the previous point, we said that modern production methods require highly specialized people, but they also demand extreme precision--and the fact is, a robot is always going to be more precise and more efficient than a human. And in general terms, a robot can also be more productive and economical. THE ECONOMY The economy is very important in almost all aspects of our life and also in the evolution of technology. Even if we have the necessary scientific knowledge, materials, tools, and adequate working methods, but we live in a society as poor as William Kamkwamba's, where even electric light is a luxury that few can afford, then the vacuum cleaner would not exist, because, as a general rule, only those products that are economically viable, which is to say, profitable, are developed. DIVERSITY Diversity is essential for shaping technological progress. When people from various backgrounds and perspectives collaborate on projects, they bring a wealth of experiences and ideas. This diversity sparks creativity and innovation, challenging the usual ways of doing things and leading to breakthroughs. A diverse team can also better meet the needs of a varied world population, creating technology that benefits everyone. So, diversity not only drives technological advancement but also ensures that the technology we develop is fair and helpful for all. NEW NEEDS Technological evolution is driven by the changing needs of society, inspiring inventors and engineers to create new solutions. Advancements like the internet and renewable energy have been developed in response to the need for quick communication and sustainable energy. As our world changes, technology adapts to meet new challenges, making our lives better and more convenient. YOUR TURN Now it’s time for you to understand how these factors might influence your object over time - in the past - and again in the future. Which factors will influence your design and prediction about what your object might look like in the future?