Knowledge production in technological innovation system: A comprehensive evaluation using a multi-criteria framework based on patent data—a case study on hydrogen storage

Knowledge production activity is central within a technological innovation system. The number of patent applications is commonly used to evaluate this activity. However, it is subject to bias and inaccurate evaluations can occur. This article proposes a multi-criteria framework based on seven complementary patent indicators, taking into account the persistence, commitment, and coherence of knowledge production activities for a more comprehensive evaluation. We demonstrate the value of our proposal through a case study on hydrogen storage, comparing patent data since 2000 about three technological solutions: physical, chemical and adsorption technologies. Our framework clearly shows that physical hydrogen storage is the most advanced in terms of knowledge production, despite not having the highest number of patent applications. • We propose a multicriteria framework from patent data for a comprehensive evaluation of knowledge production activity. • Three criteria are proposed: commitment, persistence, and coherence. • Physical, chemical and absorption solutions for hydrogen storage are evaluated according to this framework. • The analysis shows the weakness of the knowledge production activity, except for physical solution.