Interface & Cartridge Architecture

A Physical Interface is the spatial boundary at which two or more physical components meet, overlap, approach, engage, separate, or transfer a non-digital function.

Every Physical Interface shall define its geometry through a controlled coordinate system rather than through informal installation descriptions. Nominal dimensions alone are insufficient. The definition shall include dimensional tolerances, geometric tolerances, permitted movement, surface requirements, engagement depth, clearance, interference, and tool access.

Physical Interfaces shall contain, as applicable, the following functional regions:

Approach Region: space through which the incoming component moves;

Lead-In Region: geometry that corrects limited positional or angular error;

Alignment Region: features that establish final position and orientation;

Seating Region: surfaces establishing the final installed location;

Retention Region: features preventing unintended withdrawal;

Locking Region: features establishing the verified final connection;

Sealing Region: surfaces preventing unwanted transfer of air, water, gas, dust, smoke, or contaminants;

Inspection Region: features permitting confirmation of correct installation;

Release Region: access required to disconnect the component;

Identification Region: controlled location for visible and machine-readable identification.

The alignment sequence shall progress from coarse positioning to final precision. A component shall not depend upon the primary structural fastener or utility connector to correct large installation errors unless that function has been specifically engineered and validated.

Where installation is performed manually or robotically, lead-in geometry should prevent damage caused by foreseeable minor misalignment. Suitable solutions may include chamfers, tapered guides, guide pins, keyed profiles, funnels, rails, or replaceable alignment inserts.

Physical keying shall be used where incorrect orientation could create incompatibility or danger. Keying may prevent:

reversal of polarity;

connection of incompatible voltage classes;

cross-connection of fluid systems;

incorrect structural orientation;

installation of an unsuitable Cartridge class;

engagement before required safety actions;

connection of incompatible generations.

Mating materials and surface treatments shall be evaluated for friction, wear, galling, corrosion, galvanic interaction, moisture retention, thermal expansion, fire exposure, chemical compatibility, and repeated connection cycles.

Physical Interfaces shall specify whether movement is:

prohibited;

temporarily permitted during installation;

permitted within defined operational limits;

intentionally guided;

required for thermal or structural movement;

required for removal or maintenance.

Interfaces exposed to repeated engagement shall include a declared connection-cycle rating and replaceable wear components where appropriate.

Any finish, cladding, insulation, sealant, or fire-protection layer crossing the interface shall not obstruct inspection or release unless the approved lifecycle strategy explicitly permits destructive access.

Standard geometries, dimensional series, preferred engagement directions, and tolerance classes remain TBD pending development of physical reference designs.