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In view of increasing socio-economic and ecological challenges, Timo Achtelik sheds a critical light on the ongoing incremental optimization of existing innovations, which can lead to a state of over-engineering . As part of a multi-year action research project in the context of automotive materials development, it is investigated whether and how reduction-oriented innovation approaches such as frugal engineering can have an entrepreneurial impact. The findings demonstrate how frugality can be successfully integrated into existing development processes to create more sustainable and efficient innovations. This presents a crucial opportunity for companies to maintain and strengthen their competitiveness in the global market.
List of contents
Introduction.- Theoretical Foundations.- Introduction of Action Research Study.- Over-Engineering: Antecedents and
Intervention Strategies.- Frugal Engineering: Towards Adequately Engineered Materials.- Action Research Evaluation, Summary and Research Contribution.- Bibliography.
About the author
Timo Achtelik is Sustainability and Innovation Manager in Materials Engineering at an international automobile manufacturer.
Summary
In view of increasing socio-economic and ecological challenges, Timo Achtelik sheds a critical light on the ongoing incremental optimization of existing innovations, which can lead to a state of “over-engineering”. As part of a multi-year action research project in the context of automotive materials development, it is investigated whether and how reduction-oriented innovation approaches such as “frugal engineering” can have an entrepreneurial impact. The findings demonstrate how frugality can be successfully integrated into existing development processes to create more sustainable and efficient innovations. This presents a crucial opportunity for companies to maintain and strengthen their competitiveness in the global market.
