Interface & Cartridge Architecture

Maintenance preserves or restores the Cartridge’s declared performance without changing its approved fundamental configuration.

Maintenance may be:

preventive;

predictive;

condition-based;

corrective;

emergency;

software-related;

calibration-related.

The Cartridge maintenance plan shall identify:

maintenance tasks;

intervals or triggering conditions;

required isolation;

tools and test equipment;

replacement consumables;

approved materials and lubricants;

tightening or adjustment procedures;

calibration requirements;

post-maintenance testing;

responsible qualification level;

required records.

Maintenance shall preserve the integrity of all interface domains. Servicing one function shall not unintentionally compromise another.

Examples include:

a wet-service repair shall not reduce electrical protection;

replacement of a shell shall not change structural alignment;

lubrication shall not contaminate sealing or electrical surfaces;

firmware maintenance shall not alter certified safety logic without authorization;

access-panel removal shall not leave a fire barrier incomplete.

Safety-critical fasteners, seals, sensors, batteries, filters, protective devices, and wear components shall have defined replacement criteria.

Any removed single-use component shall not be reinstalled. Substituted parts shall possess documented equivalence or approved compatibility.

After maintenance, the Cartridge shall undergo testing proportional to the work performed. Maintenance affecting a primary interface, safety function, calibration, structural path, utility seal, or control logic shall require partial or complete recommissioning.

Maintenance events shall record:

reason for work;

condition found;

work performed;

parts removed and installed;

technician identity;

tools and calibration;

test results;

changes in capability or configuration;

next required action.