Investigating Prefabricated Construction Technology Innovation Dynamics: Evidence from a Patent Analysis in China

Prefabricated construction technology (PCT) is a significant driver for promoting high-quality development in the construction industry. Patents, as critical outputs of technological innovation, provide diversified data that can manifest trends in technological innovation systems. However, few studies have comprehensively revealed the dynamics of PCT innovation systems from a systematic view, considering both innovation actors and technologies. Based on 6047 patent data in China, a combination of bibliometric analysis and social network analysis are employed to examine the structure of the PCT innovation system. Subsequently, networks are constructed based on the collaborative relationships between patent applicants and technologies. Through analysis of the metrics of entire networks and nodes, the dynamics of PCT innovation systems is revealed. Generally, China’s PCT innovation system has evolved into a complex network characterized by multi-actor participation and multi-technology collaboration, playing a pivotal role in fostering sustained PCT innovation and generating substantial innovative outcomes. Nevertheless, challenges persist, including insufficient cross-domain collaboration and constrained flows of innovation resources. Moving forward, efforts should prioritize enhancing interdisciplinary cooperation, optimizing the allocation of technological resources, refining policy guidance mechanisms, and strengthening the system’s overall collaborative innovation capacity.