TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER PERSPECTIVES: THE KU LEUVEN CASE STUDY

• Published in: South African journal of industrial engineering Vol. 34; no. 2; pp. 49 - 60
• Main Author: Steenkamp, Rigard Johan
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bedfordview South African Institute for Industrial Engineering 01-08-2023; The Southern African Institute for Industrial Engineering
• Subjects: Case studies; Contemporary problems; Engineering, Industrial; Humanities; Industrial Revolution; Philosophers; Philosophy; Platforms; R&D; Research & development; Society; Software; Technology transfer
• ISSN: 2224-7890; 1012-277X; 2224-7890
• DOI: 10.7166/34-2-2836

The technology transfer office (TTO) is central to the Belgian university KU Leuven Research and Development (LRD) department, and is commendable with respect to the challenges of technology transfer. Together with the current industrial revolution, the case study focuses on a contemporary problem with several dimensions. Background is provided on philosophical perspectives, academic power, technology transfer platforms, and technology readiness. The exemplary characteristics of KU Leuven and evidence of impressive artefacts obtained through personal observation of the LRD are presented. Essentially, the case study explains the primary functions of a multidisciplinary TTO for effective technology transfer to ecosystems, with platforms such as the library, university hospitals, and others. Keywords: technology readiness, technology transfer, technology transfer office, technology transfer platforms