Determination of Women Patentees and Their Impact on Participatory Ergonomics

Abstract: This study examines the role of women inventors in patents and their impact on participatory ergonomics in design. The primary objective was to explore the relationship between the presence of women inventors in patent fields and the academic disciplines from which they graduated. Using correlation testing, the study analyzed the relationship between the number of women inventors in patent sectors and the degrees awarded to women in specific fields. The data was drawn from extensive databases containing patent records and information on the educational backgrounds of women inventors. This approach allowed for an assessment of how participatory ergonomics influences the patenting activities of women, particularly in areas related to their academic training. A similar analysis was conducted for male inventors to provide a comparative perspective. The study showed that women inventors are more likely to engage in patenting within fields that align with their educational backgrounds which differed from that of male inventors. Despite the increasing number of women earning degrees, there remains a significant gender gap in patent filings. This suggests the presence of systemic barriers or disparities. The study also recommends strategies to increase women’s participation in patenting, such as creating supportive environments in academia and the workplace, addressing biases, and encouraging inclusivity in innovation-focused industries. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the contributions of women inventors to participatory ergonomics in the patenting process, and it adds to the ongoing discussion on gender equity in innovation.

Keywords: Participatory ergonomics, design, women, patent, gender gap

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005758

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