Application of technology readiness levels (TRL) in the assessment of an R&D project in a Brazilian industrial automation company

Reinaldo Borsato Rodrigues; Eduarda Gandini Calheiros; Matheus Henrique de Carvalho Silva; Sandra Miranda Neves; Andréa Aparecida da Costa Mineiro

doi:10.14211/regepe.esbj.e2899

Authors

Reinaldo Borsato Rodrigues reinaldoborsato@gmail.com
Universidade Federal de Itajubá
https://orcid.org/0009-0006-1036-6032
Eduarda Gandini Calheiros dudagcalheiros@gmail.com
Universidade Federal de Itajubá
https://orcid.org/0009-0006-9112-4990
Matheus Henrique de Carvalho Silva matheushcs2002@gmail.com
Universidade Federal de Itajubá
https://orcid.org/0009-0008-7380-1577
Sandra Miranda Neves sandraneves@unifei.edu.br
Universidade Federal de Itajubá
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4249-6927
Andréa Aparecida da Costa Mineiro andreamineiro@unifei.edu.br
Universidade Federal de Itajubá
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1155-7333

DOI:

10.14211/regepe.esbj.e2899

Keywords:

Technology Readiness Levels (TRL), Research and Development (R&D), Project management, Innovation process

Abstract

Objective of the study: This research analyzes the implementation of the Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) methodology for measuring technological maturity in an innovative R&D project of an industrial automation company, aiming for its integration into existing management processes. Methodology: The methodological approach consisted of qualitative and applied action research conducted in two iterative cycles, utilizing the IMATEC platform and the "TRL-Sense Guide" instrument, with data collected via document analysis, participant observation, and structured interviews with twenty stakeholders. Main results: The results revealed heterogeneous maturity in the project, where the Ultrasonic Transducer reached level TRL 9 after interventions, while the Printed Circuit Board was classified as TRL 5 due to technical integration and regulatory compliance challenges. Relevance/ originality: Theoretically, the study fills a gap by detailing TRL application in the Brazilian private industrial sector, expanding the focus beyond the military and governmental spheres. The originality lies in proposing a model that translates technological metrics into managerial language within a national industrial context little explored academically. Social/ management contributions: As a management contribution, the development of the "TRL-Sense Guide" stands out as a customized tool that assists in mitigating technological risks and strengthening strategic decision-making in R&D.

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