What is Open Engineering?

Open Engineering is an analytical and functional approach to understanding high-tech innovation. It is built around the question emerging in the theoretical gap between the concepts of Open Science and Open Innovation – how do we (re-)configure technology to be of use?

Following the Science, Technology and Innovation Studies tradition of examining socio-technical systems, at its core, Open Engineering focuses on an interdisciplinary study of the interplay between organisational frameworks; Research and Development processes; knowledge management; and innovation activities, primarily systems engineering.

Vidmar, M. (2022). “Aligning Open Engineering Practices,” 2022 IEEE 28th International Conference on Engineering, Technology and Innovation (ICE/ITMC) & 31st International Association For Management of Technology (IAMOT) Conference, Nancy, France

The Open Engineering Group, led by Dr Matjaz Vidmar, is developing new theories, tools, methods and practices to advance both the understanding as well as application of Open Engineering.

Tools and Methods

Open Prototyping (OP)
Opportunity Areas Analysis Tool (OAAT)
Socio-centric Ego-nets

 

Innovation Intermediaries Interventions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Application Areas

 

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Based around The New Real programme, we explore how to integrate social sicence, arts and humanities with AI design to create intelligent, immersive, fair, and environmentally sound technologies. Key aspects include developing AI for societal benefit and ensuring human-centered AI systems. We experiment with new experiences, practices, infrastructures, and business models to empower people as agents of positive change.
 

Space and Satellite

Our research in the space industry highlights the crucial role of intermediaries in fostering innovation. We categorise these intermediaries into four types: Enablers, Equippers, Shapers, and Movers, each playing a distinct role. Our work emphasizes the formation and evolution of innovation networks, which are vital for collaboration and technological advancement. We also explore the strategic agility of space and satellite start-ups, focusing on organisational flexibility. Through case studies, we build empirical evidence of knowledge generation and R&D management in the New Space sector, theorising mechanisms driving innovation in this fast-paced industry. Our work is part of The Edinburgh Space Hub, advancing multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary space research.
 

Biotech and Biomedicine

Deploying Open Engineering tools in practice, our work with a biotech start-up, Algacraft Ltd. emphasizes innovation management and strategic planning in biotechnology, particularly in the context of developing new (photo-)bioreactors for various algae growing applications. With the Navigating Knowledge Landscapes network, we also explore the sociocultural, ethical, and political dimensions of biomedicine and biotechnology, such as the face mask mandates and rollout of vaccines, focusing on public health strategies and communication.