Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs). Identify the readiness level of the technology associated with the project as well as the planned progression during the course of project execution. A detailed explanation of the rationale for the estimated technology readiness level should be provided. Specific entry criteria for the next higher technology readiness level should be identified. The following definitions apply:
a) TRL-1. Basic principles observed and reported: Scientific problem or phenomenon identified. Essential characteristics and behaviors of systems and architectures are identified using mathematical formulations or algorithms. The observation of basic scientific principles or phenomena has been validated through peer-reviewed research. Technology is ready to transition from scientific research to applied research.
b) TRL-2. Technology concept and/or application formulated: Applied research activity. Theory and scientific principles are focused on specific application areas to define the concept. Characteristics of the application are described. Analytical tools are developed for simulation or analysis of the application.
c) TRL-3. Analytical and experimental critical function and/or characteristic proof of concept: Proof of concept validation has been achieved at this level. Experimental research and development is initiated with analytical and laboratory studies. System/integrated process requirements for the overall system application are well known. Demonstration of technical feasibility using immature prototype implementations are exercised with representative interface inputs to include electrical, mechanical, or controlling elements to validate predictions.
d) TRL-4. Component and/or process validation in laboratory environment- Alpha prototype (component) Standalone prototyping implementation and testing in laboratory environment demonstrates the concept. Integration and testing of component technology elements are sufficient to validate feasibility.
e) TRL-5. Component and/or process validation in relevant environment- Beta prototype (component): Thorough prototype testing of the component/process in relevant environment to the end user is performed. Basic technology elements are integrated with reasonably realistic supporting elements based on available technologies. Prototyping implementations conform to the target environment and interfaces.
f) TRL-6. System/process model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment- Beta prototype (system): Prototyping implementat...
Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs). Identify the readiness level of the technology associated with the project as well as the planned progression during the course of project execution. A detailed explanation of the rationale for the estimated technology readiness level should be provided. Specific entry criteria for the next higher technology readiness level should be identified. The following definitions apply: TRL-1. Basic principles observed and reported: Scientific problem or phenomenon identified. Essential characteristics and behaviors of systems and architectures are identified using mathematical formulations or algorithms. The observation of basic scientific principles or phenomena has been validated through peer-reviewed research. Technology is ready to transition from scientific research to applied research. TRL-2. Technology concept and/or application formulated: Applied research activity. Theory and scientific principles are focused on specific application areas to define the concept. Characteristics of the application are described. Analytical tools are developed for simulation or analysis of the application. TRL-4. Component and/or process validation in laboratory environment- Alpha prototype (component) Standalone prototyping implementation and testing in laboratory environment demonstrates the concept. Integration and testing of component technology elements are sufficient to validate feasibility. TRL-5. Component and/or process validation in relevant environment- Beta prototype (component): Thorough prototype testing of the component/process in relevant environment to the end user is performed. Basic technology elements are integrated with reasonably realistic supporting elements based on available technologies. Prototyping implementations conform to the target environment and interfaces.
