Technology Readiness Level (TRL) - SAF2/documentation GitHub Wiki
The Technology Readiness Level (TRL) is a measure of the maturity of a given technology (e.g., Software) during their development and early operations. As there are many definitions available, we use as basis the definitions from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), which is less complex and more general than the definitions from U.S. Department of Defence (DoD), and at the same time compatible and more detailed than the definitions provided by the European commission. We assume that SMEs and WEs starting in phase 1 have already passed the first two TRLs (i.e., basic principles have been observed and technology concept and/or application has been formulated). SMEs and WEs are encouraged to do a self-assessment of their ICT product TRL, using some of the questionnaires freely available on the internet (e.g., nyserda R&D, which is a general assessment test for different types of products, or TRL-assessment sheet1 and TRL-assessment sheet1, which have the possibility to apply only software-related questions.).
| Technology readiness level | Description (DOE) | Description (EC) |
|---|---|---|
| TRL 1 | Scientific research begins translation to applied R&D - 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. | basic principles observed |
| TRL 2 | 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. Examples are limited to analytic studies. | technology concept formulated |
| TRL 3 | Active R&D is initiated. This includes analytical studies and laboratory studies to physically validate the analytical predictions of separate elements of the technology. Examples include components that are not yet integrated or representative. | experimental proof of concept |
| TRL 4 | Basic technological components are integrated to establish that they will work together. | technology validated in lab |
| TRL 5 | 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. Examples include “high-fidelity” laboratory integration of components. | technology validated in relevant environment |
| TRL 6 | Representative model or prototype system, which is well beyond that of TRL 5, is tested in a relevant environment. Represents a major step up in a technology’s demonstrated readiness. Examples include testing a prototype in a high-fidelity laboratory environment or in a simulated operational environment. | Technology demonstrated in relevant environment |
| TRL 7 | Prototype near or at planned operational system. Represents a major step up from TRL 6 by requiring demonstration of an actual system prototype in an operational environment. | system prototype demonstration in operational environment |
| TRL 8 | Technology is proven to work - Actual technology completed and qualified through test and demonstration. | system complete and qualified |
| TRL 9 | Actual application of technology is in its final form - Technology proven through successful operations. | actual system proven in operational environment |