Interface & Cartridge Architecture

Inspection determines whether a Cartridge and its interfaces remain correctly installed, identifiable, functional, safe, and suitable for continued service.

Inspection shall be categorized as:

incoming inspection;

pre-installation inspection;

installation inspection;

commissioning inspection;

routine inspection;

condition-triggered inspection;

post-event inspection;

maintenance inspection;

pre-replacement inspection;

reuse qualification inspection.

The Cartridge specification shall define:

inspection items;

inspection frequency;

access requirements;

required tools;

measurable acceptance criteria;

inspector qualification;

evidence format;

conditions requiring immediate isolation;

conditions permitting monitored continued operation.

Inspection may include:

identity and configuration verification;

visual condition;

dimensional movement;

lock position;

fastener condition;

corrosion and material degradation;

cracking, deformation, or wear;

leakage or seal condition;

electrical heating or insulation deterioration;

sensor health;

software and cybersecurity status;

fire-protection continuity;

service access;

unauthorized modification.

Statements such as “inspect for damage” are insufficient for critical Cartridges. The specification shall identify observable conditions, measurement locations, limits, and required responses.

Where direct inspection is impossible, the design shall provide an alternative method such as:

inspection window;

removable cover;

test port;

witness mark;

embedded sensor;

nondestructive evaluation;

force or displacement history;

monitored performance indicator.

Inspection results shall identify whether the Cartridge is:

acceptable for continued service;

acceptable with monitoring;

maintenance required;

capacity restricted;

replacement required;

immediate isolation required;

unsuitable for reuse.

AI-supported inspection may assist detection and comparison, but inferred findings shall remain distinguishable from verified observations.