Collaboration Delivers Astounding Results on Mission Critical Program

Harper Engineering recently partnered with our customer to design a mechanically driven time-locking latch that sets a new benchmark for seamless collaboration between Customer and Supplier. This collaboration showcased how intercompany synergies can accelerate innovation, customized design, testing, and production while maintaining high standards of quality, cost efficiency, and reliability.

Specific program requirements necessitated unique features to meet a challenging set of regulations. Harper Engineering embraced all program requirements, bringing forward an innovative design solution which included a fully realized initial prototype within 3 weeks of program start. Agile project management processes allowed for rapid integration of customer feedback to iterate the finalized design ahead of the program schedule.

A key focus for this collaboration was on producing a high-quality and reliable product. At Harper Engineering, quality and reliability start at design inception and flow through the final certified product arriving to the customer. We leveraged our 58 years of latch design experience to ensure the final product met all the stringent aerospace and regulatory standards. Harper Engineering's rigorous testing campaign included 29 individual qualification tests utilizing customized computer-controlled cycle tests and specialized environmentally controlled testing chambers to demonstrate the product's durability and suitability for its mission critical environment. By valuing the importance of strict quality control during life cycle design, Harper Engineering was able to deliver a robust and reliable product to our customer ahead of program schedule.

A key component of effective program management is the ability to recognize and disposition all elements of risk. For this program, a risk item was identified early in the supply chain which could have caused a 4-month schedule delay. By recognizing the risk early, Harper was able to work in parallel with the supplier, customer, and regulators to create a design that had full approval on the target date. This careful orchestration of risk management contributed to uninterrupted progress preventing a 4-month delay building trust between all parties.

Compliance with aerospace standards and thorough documentation were essential for program success. By adhering to strict standards, Harper Engineering enabled our customer to seamlessly demonstrate compliance with all regulations facilitating a smooth approval process and paving the way for on time market introduction.

In conclusion, this collaboration highlights the powerful outcomes that can be achieved when two companies combine their strengths toward a common goal. By focusing on effective communication during all aspects of the program, Harper Engineering was able to deliver a product that exceeded customer expectations. This partnership will serve as a model for future projects on how collaboration drives innovation, accelerates program timelines, and delivers exceptional value that exceeds customer expectations.

Harper Engineering is a leading provider of innovative solutions for the aerospace industry, specializing in precision engineering, manufacturing, and sustainability. With a commitment to excellence and environmental responsibility, Harper Engineering delivers cutting-edge products and services that meet the evolving needs of the aerospace sector.