Technological Readiness Levels/Society Readiness Levels

Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) are a systematic metric used to assess the maturity of a particular technology, from its initial concept to full market adoption. In the fashion industry, this involves evaluating technologies such as smart textiles, sustainable materials, and advanced manufacturing processes. Additionally, Society Readiness Levels (SRLs) gauge the acceptance of these innovations within society, ensuring that technological advancements are not only feasible but also embraced by consumers and stakeholders. This unit will explore how TRLs and SRLs are used to evaluate the feasibility, scalability, and market adoption of fashion innovations.

Case studies

Kornit Digital

Kornit Digital is a company focused on sustainable, on-demand, digital textile printing technologies. Their innovations in high-speed, zero-waste printing are a great example of TRL application in the fashion industry. By reducing the water and energy footprint of traditional textile printing, they have successfully moved from an R&D stage to full commercial adoption. Their success also reflects a positive SRL outcome, as consumers and brands increasingly demand eco-friendly production methods. More details.

Vollebak

Vollebak is an experimental clothing brand using cutting-edge materials and technologies. Their graphene jacket, for instance, is made from one of the strongest and most conductive materials on Earth. This is an example of how a small brand can implement advanced technology (TRL) while gauging societal acceptance (SRL). The market is still testing the readiness for high-tech materials like graphene in everyday wear, making this a clear case of integrating both TRL and SRL evaluation. Learn more.

Colorifix

Colorifix is a biotech startup using DNA to transfer color onto fabrics, replacing synthetic dyes with a more sustainable, biological alternative. This technology has moved through the early TRL phases and is now being adopted by smaller, eco-conscious brands. In terms of SRL, Colorifix appeals to consumers who are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental damage caused by traditional dyeing processes, and as a result, their innovation is seeing growing market acceptance. Find more information.

Petit Pli

Petit Pli is a children’s clothing brand that uses advanced material technology to create garments that grow with the child. By implementing pleated fabric that expands, Petit Pli minimizes waste and the need for frequent clothing purchases. Their innovative design has passed the early TRL stages and successfully reached commercialization. From an SRL perspective, their product appeals to sustainability-conscious parents who appreciate reducing waste and extending the lifespan of children’s clothing. Explore more.

References

Holly Stower. Cleantech Group, 04 June 2020, www.cleantech.com/transparency-and-resilience-in-fashion/.

Hsu, Chih-Hung, et al. “Deploying resilience enablers to mitigate risks in sustainable fashion supply chains.” Sustainability 13.5 (2021): 2943.

Rocchetta, Silvia, et al. “Technological knowledge spaces and the resilience of European regions.” Journal of Economic Geography 22.1 (2022): 27-51.

Akram, Shaik Vaseem, et al. “Implementation of Digitalized Technologies for Fashion Industry 4.0: Opportunities and Challenges.” Scientific Programming 2022 (2022).