Statistical Study of Patents Filed in Global Nano Photonic Technology

Introduction As one of leading core technology in the 21th century, nano photonic technology (NPT) is highly interdisciplinary, involving physics, chemistry, biology, materials science, and the full range of the engineering disciplines (Picraux, 2014). NPT is a study of the interaction of electrons and photons and its components in nano structure based on the great development and popularization of nanometre semiconductor materials (Liu, 2005). In 2011, NPT was identified as one of Key Enabling Technologies (KETs) for its vital role in strengthening Europe’s industrial and innovation capacity (European Commission, 2011). It is widely used in telecommunications, optical interconnects, display, lighting, photovoltaic, sensors, data storage, imaging, and testing, etc (AIRI/Nanotec IT, 2008). Patent analysis, which involves statistical, analytical, and comparative methods for examining information in patent documents, has been widely applied in studies examining R&D capacity, technological fields, industrial departments, and company levels (Pavit, 1988). Careful analysis of NPT-related patents can assist in elucidating technological details and relationships, identifying business trends, inspiring novel industrial solutions, and developing investment policies. Therefore, this study performed a statistical analysis of patent data to explore the technological developments of NPT. The technology life cycle and regional distribution of the patents were studied, and the top ten patent assignees were also explored.