Quality Test & Inspection: Change Solves Navy's Quality Challenges
In describing the role of the Navy's Interface Assessment Division of which his lab is part, Michael Wheeler, manager, Gage and Standards Laboratory says, "Some people call us the ‘Consumer Reports' of the Navy."
The Interface Assessment Division, a unit of the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC, Corona, CA), uses its precision measurement capabilities, traceable to national standards to ensure the form, fit and functional requirements of physical interchangeability and mechanical interoperability as specified by the Navy. Wheeler says, "Our efforts support the warfighter by providing structured, proven interface control practices and precision measurements for maximum efficiency, flexibility and safety of battlefield weapons systems. The idea is to solve mechanical interface problems before they happen, that is, to ensure that interchangeability occurs as intended."