The “typical” systems design process follows a series of tasks generally described as design, fabrication and assembly, installation, operations and maintenance, and retirement. This development cycle model is in use throughout the world in a variety of fields. The phases are generally separated by specific milestone events.  he milestone event separating design from fabrication involves some form of approval of the design data so as to minimize risk during the development of the product. Generally it is much easier to fix something on paper in the design phase than to rebuild or repurchase components in the assembly or installation phase. Similarly, some form of inspection is usually accomplished after fabrication and prior to installation. An additional inspection milestone separates the installation and operations phases of the development cycle.

For HIAPER instruments design data required to obtain approval for installation include:

• Descriptive data (drawings, sketches, photos, vendor catalogue pages, etc)
• Structural analyses (engineering data demonstrating that the instrument can withstand the specified front, aft and vertical loads)
• Electrical load analyses
• Electrical component description, AMETEK tubing, and wire insulation compliance data (8110-3)
• Pneumatic, hydraulic, compressed gas, hazardous material design documentaiton, icing etc.