Technology readiness level

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Technology Readiness Level

Technology Readiness Level (TRL) is a systematic metric/measurement system that supports assessments of the maturity of a particular technology. It is used to evaluate the progress of a technology from the initial concept (basic principles observed) to a fully operational system. The concept of TRL was originally developed by NASA in the 1970s and has since been adopted by various organizations, including the European Space Agency (ESA), the Department of Defense (DoD), and the European Commission.

• Overview

The TRL scale consists of nine levels, each representing a different stage of technology development. The levels are as follows:

1. TRL 1: Basic principles observed and reported

  - This is the lowest level of technology readiness. Scientific research begins to be translated into applied research and development. Examples might include paper studies of a technology’s basic properties.

2. TRL 2: Technology concept and/or application formulated

  - Invention begins. Once basic principles are observed, practical applications can be invented. Applications are speculative, and there may be no proof or detailed analysis to support the assumptions.

3. TRL 3: Analytical and experimental critical function and/or characteristic proof of concept

  - Active research and development (R&D) is initiated. This includes analytical studies and laboratory-based studies to physically validate the analytical predictions of separate elements of the technology.

4. TRL 4: Component and/or breadboard validation in laboratory environment

  - Basic technological components are integrated to establish that they will work together. This is relatively "low fidelity" compared to the eventual system.

5. TRL 5: Component and/or breadboard validation in relevant environment

  - Fidelity of breadboard technology increases significantly. The basic technological components are integrated with reasonably realistic supporting elements so they can be tested in a simulated environment.

6. TRL 6: System/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment

  - A representative model or prototype system, which is well beyond the breadboard tested for TRL 5, is tested in a relevant environment.

7. TRL 7: System prototype demonstration in an operational environment

  - Prototype near or at planned operational system. Represents a major step up from TRL 6, requiring the demonstration of an actual system prototype in an operational environment.

8. TRL 8: Actual system completed and qualified through test and demonstration

  - Technology has been proven to work in its final form and under expected conditions. In almost all cases, this TRL represents the end of true system development.

9. TRL 9: Actual system proven through successful mission operations

  - The actual application of the technology in its final form and under mission conditions, such as those encountered in operational test and evaluation.

• Importance

The TRL scale is important because it provides a consistent framework for evaluating the maturity of a technology. This helps in making informed decisions about technology investments and in managing the risks associated with technology development. It is particularly useful in large organizations and government agencies where technology development is a critical component of mission success.

• Applications

TRLs are used in various fields, including aerospace, defense, energy, and healthcare. They help in:

• Risk Management: By understanding the maturity of a technology, organizations can better manage the risks associated with its development and deployment.
• Investment Decisions: TRLs provide a basis for making investment decisions, ensuring that resources are allocated to technologies that are mature enough to warrant further development.
• Project Management: TRLs help project managers to plan and execute technology development projects by providing a clear roadmap of the stages of development.

Also see

• Technology development process
• Innovation management
• Research and development
• Project management
• Risk management