Section 1 Technology assessment scale
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Clasifications Register Guidance Information - Guidance Notes for Certification through Technology Qualification, January 2022 - Chapter 5 Appendices - Section 1 Technology assessment scale

Section 1 Technology assessment scale

Parent topic: Chapter 5 Appendices

1.1 Technology Readiness Level (TRL)

1.1.1 Adapted from NASA’s original scheme to measure technology readiness for space related systems, this scheme has been developed to assess the initial technology maturity for most technologies. At the time of publication, the NASA document was available at: https://www.nasa.gov/pdf/458490main_TRL_Definitions.pdf

Table 5.1.1 Nine-level assessment scale

TRL Definition Description
01 Basic principles observed Scientific observations are made and reported. Examples could include paper-based studies of a technology’s basic properties.
02 Technology concept formulated The application may be speculative at this stage. Examples are often limited to analytical studies.
03 Experimental proof of concept Effective research and development initiated. Examples include studies and laboratory measurements to validate analytical predictions.
04 Technology validated in a laboratory Technology validated through basic prototype design and investigation. Examples might include an analysis of the technology’s operating range. The results provide evidence on performance requirements that might be attainable.
05 Technology validated in relevant environment Reliability of technology significantly increases due to further testing. Examples could involve validation of a semi-integrated system/model of technological and supporting elements in a simulated environment.
06 Technology demonstrated in relevant environment Advanced prototype design verified. Examples might include a prototype system/model being produced and demonstrated in a simulated environment.
07 System model or prototype demonstration in operational environment A major step-increase in technological maturity that includes an advanced design. Examples could include a viable model/system being verified in an operational environment.
08 System complete and qualified Detailed engineering design of a System/model produced and qualified. An example might include the knowledge generated from TRL 7 being used to manufacture an actual system/model, which is subsequently qualified in an operational environment.
09 Actual system proven in operational environment System/model proven through multiple qualification test activities and ready for full commercial deployment. An example includes the actual system/model being successfully deployed for multiple missions by end users.
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