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Article published In: Translation, Cognition & Behavior
Vol. 3:1 (2020) ► pp.100–121

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Raw machine translation use by patent professionals

A case of distributed cognition

 | Tampere University
Published online: 13 May 2020
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/tcb.00036.nur
Abstract
This article examines the use of raw, unedited machine-translated texts by patent professionals using the framework of distributed cognition. The goals of the study were to evaluate whether the concept of distributed cognition is a useful theoretical lens for examining and explaining raw MT reception, and to contribute to our knowledge of raw MT use through an analysis of a real-life use case. The study revealed that patent professionals often rely on a large network of artifacts and people to help them in the task of understanding raw MT, and therefore the concept of distributed cognition was applicable and useful. The study also contributed new knowledge to our overall understanding of the use of raw MT.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Related work
    • 2.1Distributed cognition and translation
    • 2.2Raw MT users
  • 3.Methods
  • 4.Introduction to the work of patent professionals
    • 4.1Texts and processes
    • 4.2MT for patents
    • 4.3Tool environment
  • 5.Distributed cognition: Understanding through interaction with network
    • 5.1Original source document
    • 5.2Inventors and technical experts
    • 5.3Alternative machine translation
    • 5.4Larger network of stakeholders
    • 5.5Meaning-making through negotiation on a higher level
  • 6.Conclusions and future research
  • Notes
  • References
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