Engineering Philosophy

  Abstract The abstract discusses a challenge in the philosophy of technology and engineering science regarding the relationship between the structure and function of a technical artifact. The key points are: Challenge in Philosophy of Technology and Engineering Science: There's a need to understand the relationship between a technical artifact's structure (how it's built) and its function (what it does). However, current philosophical approaches in technology and engineering science struggle to support the idea that a significant relationship exists between these two aspects. Empirical Turn and Functional Decomposition: The Empirical Turn, a recent development in the philosophy of technology and engineering science, attempts to address this issue. Jeroen de Ridder's 'Functional Decomposition' is a reductive design methodology presented in this context. It attempts to explain the structure-function relationship through rational reconstruction, which is a method ...

Abstract In this paper, the authors discuss the challenges engineers face when designing non-prototypical engineered systems, which are systems that cannot be tested using prototypes. Unlike prototypical systems where uncertainties can be reduced through testing, non-prototypical systems present greater levels of uncertainty due to the lack of prototype testing. The engineers manage these uncertainties in several ways: Codes of Practice: To ensure minimum safety levels, engineers follow established codes of practice. These codes provide guidelines and standards that help in making informed decisions despite the uncertainties. Quality Control Measures: To minimize the risk of human error, which can introduce additional uncertainties in the design process, engineers implement stringent quality control measures. Designing for Robustness: Considering the possibility of extreme and unpredictable events, engineers incorporate additional details into the system to make it more robust. These d...

  Abstract In the abstract you provided, the authors highlight the crucial role of researchers in technology-based companies, which involves developing innovative products and processes to increase revenue or decrease costs. The focus of this work is on exploring the nature of knowledge in the context of breakthrough innovation. Here's a concise explanation: Role of Researchers in Technology Companies: Researchers play a key role in driving innovation within technology companies. Their primary task is to create new products and processes that can either boost the company's income or reduce its expenses. Understanding How Engineers and Scientists Know: While there has been some consideration of how engineers and scientists acquire and use knowledge, most practitioners and researchers in the field of corporate innovation have not fully developed or articulated their assumptions about this topic. Epistemology of Breakthrough Innovation: The work aims to delve into the epistemology...

Abstract The abstract discusses the combination of the use-plan analysis with the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) to develop a model called 'Rational Acceptance of Technology'. Here's a concise explanation: Use-Plan Analysis and UTAUT: The use-plan analysis focuses on how artefacts are used and designed, while UTAUT is a model for predicting the adoption of information systems in organizations. Use-Plan Analysis gives us detailed insights into the actual use of the technology – the nitty-gritty of how it's used in real-life situations. UTAUT, on the other hand, helps us understand the broader context of why people decide to use or not use a technology. These two approaches are proposed to be combined. Mapping Concepts: The basic concepts of use-plan analysis and UTAUT can be aligned with each other. This alignment suggests the feasibility of developing an evaluative model to understand and predict the rational acceptance of technology. Develop...

  Abstract The abstract discusses the impact of technology on human memory and the perception of the past. Our evolutionary and pre-literate cultural background did not prepare us for the reliance on technology to record and preserve memories. Historically, memory served purposes that were useful or pleasurable, but the emergence of technology has shifted the focus towards the accuracy and truthfulness of memories. The rise of "lifelogging" and digital memory-supporting technologies represents a significant change in how we understand ourselves socially and psychologically. Lifelogging involves extensively recording one's daily life using digital technology, which changes the way we recall and interact with our past experiences. This technological shift raises important challenges for policymakers, designers, and social thinkers. They must navigate the dilemmas presented by these technologies, such as issues related to privacy, the reliability of digitally stored memories...