Agreement: E/ECE/324 E/ECE/TRANS/505 Add.2/Rev.3 31 May 2005
Agreement: E/ECE/324 E/ECE/TRANS/505 Add.2/Rev.3 31 May 2005
E/ECE/TRANS/505
} Add.2/Rev.3
31 May 2005
AGREEMENT
CONCERNING THE ADOPTION OF UNIFORM TECHNICAL PRESCRIPTIONS
FOR WHEELED VEHICLES, EQUIPMENT AND PARTS WHICH CAN BE FITTED
AND/OR BE USED ON WHEELED VEHICLES AND THE CONDITIONS FOR
RECIPROCAL RECOGNITION OF APPROVALS GRANTED ON THE BASIS OF
THESE PRESCRIPTIONS ∗/
(Revision 2, including the amendments which entered into force on 16 October 1995)
_________
Revision 3
UNITED NATIONS
Regulation No. 3
CONTENTS
REGULATION Page
1. Scope .........................................................................................................................................5
2. Definitions .................................................................................................................................5
4. Markings....................................................................................................................................7
5. Approval ....................................................................................................................................7
8. Conformity of production........................................................................................................10
ANNEXES
CONTENTS (continued)
Annex 11 - Colour-fastness
1. SCOPE
2. DEFINITIONS 2/
2.1. The definitions given in Regulation No. 48 and its series of amendments in force at
the time of application for type approval shall apply to this Regulation.
2.2. "Retro-reflection" means the reflection in which light is reflected in directions close
to the direction from which it came. This property is maintained over wide
variations of the illumination angle.
2.4. "Retro-reflecting device" 1/ means an assembly ready for use and comprising one or
more retro-reflecting optical units.
2.5. "Angle of divergence" means the angle between the straight lines connecting the
centre of reference to the centre of the receiver and to the centre of the source of
illumination.
2.6. "Illumination angle" means the angle between the axis of reference and the straight
line connecting the centre of reference to the centre of the source of illumination.
2.7. "Angle of rotation" means the angle through which the retro-reflecting device is
rotated about its axis of reference starting from one given position.
2.8. "Angular diameter of the retro-reflecting device" means the angle subtended by the
greatest dimension of the visible area of the illuminating surface, either at the centre
of the source of illumination or at the centre of the receiver.
2/ The definitions of the technical terms (excluding the ones in Regulation No. 48) are those
adopted by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE).
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2.10. "Coefficient of luminous intensity (CIL)" means the quotient of the luminous
intensity reflected in the direction considered, divided by the illumination of the
retro-reflecting device for given angles of illumination, divergence and rotation.
2.11. The symbols and units used in this Regulation are given in Annex 1 to this
Regulation.
2.13. Retro-reflecting devices are divided into three classes according to their
photometric characteristics: Class IA or IB, Class IIIA or IIIB, and Class IVA.
2.14. Retro-reflecting devices of Class IB and IIIB are devices combined with other
signal lamps which are not watertight according to Annex 8, paragraph 1.1., and
which are integrated into the body of a vehicle.
3.1. The application for approval shall be submitted by the holder of the trade name or
mark, or if necessary by his duly accredited representative.
At the choice of the applicant, it will specify that the device may be installed on a
vehicle with different inclinations of the reference axis in respect to the vehicle
reference planes and to the ground or, in the case of Class IA, IB and IVA retro-
reflectors, rotate around its reference axis; these different conditions of
installation shall be indicated in the communication form. It shall be
accompanied by:
3.1.2. a brief description giving the technical specifications of the materials of which the
retro-reflecting optical unit is made;
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3.1.3. samples of the retro-reflecting device of a colour specified by the manufacturer and,
if necessary, the means of fixation; the number of samples to be submitted is
specified in Annex 4 to this Regulation;
3.1.5. in the case of devices of Class IVA: samples of the retro-reflecting device and, if
necessary, the means of fixation; the number of samples to be submitted is specified
in Annex 14 to this Regulation.
4. MARKINGS
4.1.2. the word "TOP" inscribed horizontally on the highest part of the illuminating
surface, if such an indication is necessary to determine without ambiguity the angle
or angles of rotation prescribed by the manufacturer.
4.2. A space of sufficient size to accommodate the approval mark shall be provided on
every device. This space shall be shown on the drawings referred to in
paragraph 3.1.1. above.
4.3. The markings must be applied on the illuminating surface, or on one of the
illuminating surfaces, of the retro-reflecting device and must be visible from the
outside when the retro-reflecting device is fitted on the vehicle.
5. APPROVAL
5.1. If all the samples submitted meet the requirements of this Regulation, approval shall
be granted.
5.3. An approval number shall be assigned to each type approved. Its first two digits (at
present 02, corresponding to the 02 series of amendments which entered into force
on 1 July 1985) shall indicate the series of amendments incorporating the most
recent major technical amendments made to the Regulation at the time of issue of
the approval. The same Contracting Party shall not assign the same number to
another type of retro-reflecting device covered by this Regulation except in the case
of an extension of the approval to a device differing only in colour.
5.5.1.1. a circle surrounding the letter "E" followed by the distinguishing number of the
country which has granted approval; 3/
3/ 1 for Germany, 2 for France, 3 for Italy, 4 for the Netherlands, 5 for Sweden, 6 for
Belgium, 7 for Hungary, 8 for the Czech Republic, 9 for Spain, 10 for Serbia and Montenegro,
11 for the United Kingdom, 12 for Austria, 13 for Luxembourg, 14 for Switzerland, 15 (vacant),
16 for Norway, 17 for Finland, 18 for Denmark, 19 for Romania, 20 for Poland, 21 for Portugal,
22 for the Russian Federation, 23 for Greece, 24 for Ireland, 25 for Croatia, 26 for Slovenia,
27 for Slovakia, 28 for Belarus, 29 for Estonia, 30 (vacant), 31 for Bosnia and Herzegovina,
32 for Latvia, 33 (vacant), 34 for Bulgaria, 35 (vacant), 36 for Lithuania, 37 for Turkey,
38 (vacant), 39 for Azerbaijan, 40 for The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, 41 (vacant),
42 for the European Community (Approvals are granted by its Member States using their
respective ECE symbol), 43 for Japan, 44 (vacant), 45 for Australia, 46 for Ukraine, 47 for South
Africa, 48 for New Zealand, 49 for Cyprus, 50 for Malta and 51 for the Republic of Korea.
Subsequent numbers shall be assigned to other countries in the chronological order in which they
ratify or accede to the Agreement Concerning the Adoption of Uniform Technical Prescriptions
for Wheeled Vehicles, Equipment and Parts which can be Fitted and/or be Used on Wheeled
Vehicles and the Conditions for Reciprocal Recognition of Approvals Granted on the Basis of
these Prescriptions, and the numbers thus assigned shall be communicated by the Secretary-
General of the United Nations to the Contracting Parties to the Agreement.
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5.5.1.3. a group of symbols IA, IB, IIIA, IIIB or IVA showing the class of the approved
retro-reflecting device.
5.6. When two or more lamps are part of the same unit of grouped, combined or
reciprocally incorporated lamps (including a retro-reflector), approval is granted
only if each of these lamps satisfies the requirements of this Regulation or of
another Regulation. Lamps not satisfying any one of those Regulations shall not be
part of such a unit of grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps.
5.6.1. Where grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps comply with the
requirements of several Regulations, a single international approval mark may be
applied, consisting of a circle surrounding the letter "E" followed by the
distinguishing number of the country which has granted the approval, an approval
number and, if necessary, the required arrow. This approval mark may be placed
anywhere on the grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps provided
that:
5.6.1.2. No part of the grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps that transmits
light can be removed without at the same time removing the approval mark.
5.6.2. The identification symbol for each lamp appropriate to each Regulation under which
approval has been granted, together with the corresponding series of amendments
incorporating the most recent major technical amendments to the Regulation at the
time of issue of the approval, shall be marked;
5.6.2.2. Or in a group, in such a way that each lamp of the grouped, combined or
reciprocally incorporated lamps may be clearly identified (see the possible examples
shown in Annex 3).
5.6.3. The size of the components of a single approval mark shall not be less than the
minimum size required for the smallest of the individual marks by a Regulation
under which approval has been granted.
5.6.4. An approval number shall be assigned to each type approved. The same Contracting
Party may not assign the same number to another type of grouped, combined or
reciprocally incorporated lamps covered by this Regulation.
5.8. Annex 3 to this Regulation gives examples of arrangements of approval marks for a
single lamp (figure 1) and for grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps
(figure 2) with all the additional symbols referred to above.
6. GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
6.1. Retro-reflecting devices must be so constructed that they function satisfactorily and
will continue to do so in normal use. In addition, they must not have any defect in
design or manufacture that is detrimental to their efficient operation or to their
maintenance in good condition.
6.2. The components of retro-reflecting devices must not be capable of being easily
dismantled.
6.4. The outer surface of retro-reflecting devices must be easy to clean. Hence it must
not be a rough surface; any protuberances it may exhibit must not prevent easy
cleaning.
6.5. For devices of Class IVA their means of fixation shall be such that they allow a
stable and durable connection between the device and the vehicle.
6.6. There shall be no access to the inner surface of the retro-reflectors when in normal
use.
7.1. Retro-reflecting devices must also satisfy the conditions as to dimensions and shape,
and the colorimetric, photometric, physical and mechanical requirements set forth in
Annexes 5 to 11 and 13 to this Regulation. The test procedures are described in
Annex 4 (Class IA, IIIA), Annex 14 (Class IVA) and Annex 16 (Class IB, IIIB).
7.2. Depending on the nature of the materials of which the retro-reflecting devices and,
in particular, their optical units, are made, the competent authorities may authorize
laboratories to omit certain unnecessary tests, subject to the express reservation that
such omission must be mentioned under "Remarks" on the form notifying approval.
8. CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION
The conformity of production procedures shall comply with those set out in the
Agreement, Appendix 2 (E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS/505/Rev.2), with the following
requirements:
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8.2. The minimum requirements for conformity of production control procedures set
forth in Annex 17 to this Regulation shall be complied with.
8.3. The minimum requirements for sampling by an inspector set forth in Annex 18 to
this Regulation shall be complied with.
8.4. The authority which has granted type approval may at any time verify the
conformity control methods applied in each production facility. The normal
frequency of these verifications shall be once every two years.
9.1. The approval granted for a type of retro-reflecting device may be withdrawn if the
requirements are not complied with or if a retro-reflecting device bearing the
approval mark does not conform to the type approved.
12.1. Shall continue to recognize approvals issued for the former Classes I, II and III in
respect of the fitting of retro-reflecting devices intended as replacement for vehicles
in use;
12.2. May issue approvals for Classes I and II on the basis of the original Regulation
(document E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS/505/Add.2 of 23 September 1964) provided
that the devices are intended as replacements for fitting to vehicles in use and that it
would not be technically feasible for the devices in question to satisfy the
photometric requirements for Class IA;
12.3. May prohibit the fitting of retro-reflecting devices which do not meet the
requirements of this Regulation:
12.3.1. on vehicles for which type approval or individual approval was issued on or after
20 March 1984.
Annex 1
RETRO-REFLECTING DEVICES
C = Centre of reference
NC = Axis of reference
Cr = Centre of receiver
Se = Source of illumination
Note: In general, De and D'e are very nearly the same and under normal conditions of
observation it may be assumed that De = D'e.
D = Observation distance from and from beyond which the illuminating surface appears
to be continuous
α = Angle of divergence
β = Illumination angle. With respect to the line CsC which is always considered to be
horizontal, this angle is prefixed by the signs - (left), + (right), + (up) or - (down),
according to the position of the source Se in relation to the axis NC, as seen when
looking towards the retro-reflecting device. For any direction defined by two
angles, vertical and horizontal, the vertical angle is always given first.
ε = Angle of rotation. This angle is positive when the rotation is clockwise as seen
when looking towards the illuminating surface. If the retro-reflecting device is
marked "TOP", the position thus indicated is taken as the origin.
RETRO-REFLECTORS
Symbols
ELEVATION
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Annex 2
Annex 2
COMMUNICATION
9. Concise description:
16. The following documents, bearing the approval number shown above, are available on
request:
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................
________________
Annex 3
Figure 1
(Marking for single lamps)
a = 4 mm min.
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Annex 3
a = 4 mm min
Note: The above approval number must be placed close to, but in any position in relation to, the
circle surrounding the letter "E". The digits constituting the approval number must face the same
way as the "E". The group of symbols indicating the class must be diametrically opposite the
approval number. The competent authorities shall avoid using approval numbers IA, IB, IIIA,
IIIB and IVA which might be confused with the class symbols IA, IB, IIIA, IIIB and IVA.
These sketches show various possible arrangements and are given as examples only.
The above approval mark affixed to a retro-reflecting device shows that the type of device
concerned has been approved in the Netherlands (E4) under approval number 02216. The
approval number shows that approval was granted in accordance with the requirements of the
Regulation as modified by the 02 series of amendments.
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Annex 3
Figure 2
Model D
Model E
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Annex 3
Model F
Note: The three examples of approval marks, models D, E and F, represent three possible variants
of the marking of a lighting device when two or more lamps are part of the same unit of grouped,
combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps. This approval mark shows that the device was
approved in the Netherlands (E4) under approval number 3333 and comprising:
A rear direction indicator of category 2a approved in accordance with Regulation No. 6 in its
original form;
A red rear position lamp (R) approved in accordance with the 01 series of amendments to
Regulation No. 7;
A rear fog lamp (F) approved in accordance with Regulation No. 38 in its original form;
A reversing lamp (AR) approved in accordance with Regulation No. 23 in its original form;
A stop lamp with two levels of illumination (S2) approved in accordance with the 01 series of
amendments to Regulation No. 7.
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Annex 4
Annex 4
TEST PROCEDURE - CLASS IA AND CLASS IIIA
1. The applicant shall submit for approval ten samples which shall be tested in the
chronological order indicated in Annex 12.
2. After verification of the general specifications (paragraph 6 of the Regulation) and the
specifications of shape and dimensions (Annex 5), the ten samples shall be subjected to
the heat resistance test described in Annex 10 to this Regulation and at least one hour
after this test examined as to their colorimetric characteristics (Annex 6) and CIL
(Annex 7) for an angle of divergence of 20' and an illumination angle V = H = 0° or if
necessary, in the position defined in Annex 7, paragraphs 4. and 4.1. The two retro-
reflecting devices giving the minimum and maximum values shall then be fully tested as
shown in Annex 7. These two samples shall be kept by the laboratories for any further
checks which may be found necessary. The other eight samples shall be divided into four
groups of two:
First group: The two samples shall be subjected successively to the water
penetration test (Annex 8, paragraph 1.1.) and then, if this test is
satisfactory, to the tests for resistance to fuels and lubricants
(Annex 8, paragraphs 3. and 4.).
Second group: The two samples shall, if necessary, be subjected to the corrosion test
(Annex 8, paragraph 2.), and then to the abrasive-strength test of the
rear face of the retro-reflecting device (Annex 8, paragraph 5.).
Third group: The two samples shall be subjected to the test for stability in time of
the optical properties of retro-reflecting device (Annex 9).
Fourth group: The two samples shall be subjected to the colour-fastness test
(Annex 11).
3. After undergoing the tests referred to in the above paragraph, the retro-reflecting devices
in each group must have:
3.1. a colour which satisfies the conditions laid down in Annex 6. This shall be verified by a
qualitative method and, in case of doubt, confirmed by a quantitative method.
3.2. a CIL which satisfies the conditions laid down in Annex 7. The verification shall be
performed only for an angle of divergence of 20' and an illumination angle of V = H = 0°
or, if necessary, in the position specified in Annex 7, paragraphs 4. and 4.1.
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Annex 5
Annex 5
1.1. The shape of the illuminating surfaces must be simple, and not easily confused at
normal observation distances, with a letter, a digit or a triangle.
1.2. The preceding paragraph notwithstanding, a shape resembling the letters or digits of
simple form O, I, U or 8 is permissible.
2.1. The illuminating surfaces of retro-reflecting devices in Classes IIIA and IIIB must
have the shape or an equilateral triangle. If the word "TOP" is inscribed in one
corner, the apex of that corner must be directed upwards.
2.2. The illuminating surface may or may not have at its centre a triangular, non-retro-
reflecting area, with sides parallel to those of the outer triangle.
2.3. The illuminating surface may or may not be continuous. In any case, the shortest
distance between two adjacent retro-reflecting optical units must not exceed 15 mm.
2.5. If the illuminated surface is not continuous, the number of separate retro-reflecting
optical units including the corner units shall not be less than four on each side of the
triangle.
2.5.1. The separate retro-reflecting optical units shall not be replaceable unless they consist
of approved retro-reflecting devices in Class IA.
2.6. The outside edges of the illuminating surfaces of triangular retro-reflecting devices in
Classes IIIA and IIIB shall be between 150 and 200 mm long. In the case of devices
of hollow-triangle type, the width of the sides, measured at right angles to the latter,
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Annex 5
shall be equal to at least 20 per cent of the effective length between the extremities of
the illuminating surface.
3.1. The shape of the light emitting surfaces must be simple and not easily confused at
normal observation distances with a letter, a digit or a triangle. However, a shape
resembling the letters and digits of simple form, O, I, U and 8 is permissible.
3.2. The light emitting surface of the retro-reflecting device must be at least 25 cm2.
Annex 5 - Appendix
Annex 6
COLORIMETRIC SPECIFICATIONS
1. These specifications shall apply only to clear, red or amber retro-reflecting devices.
1.1. Retro-reflecting devices may consist of a combined retro-reflecting optical unit and
filter, which must be so designed that they cannot be separated under normal
conditions of use.
1.2. The colouring of retro-reflecting optical units and filters by means of paint or varnish
is not permitted.
2. When the retro-reflecting device is illuminated by ICI standard illuminant A, with an
angle of divergence of 1/3° and an illumination angle of V = H = 0°, or, if this
produces a colourless surface reflection, an angle V = " 5°, H = 0°, the trichromatic
coordinates of the reflected luminous flux must be within the following limits:
2.1. In the case of red and amber, compliance with the colorimetric specifications shall be
verified by a visual comparison test.
2.2. If any doubt remains after this test, compliance with the colorimetric specifications
shall be verified by determining the trichromatic coordinates of the most doubtful
sample.
3. Clear retro-reflecting devices must not produce a selective reflection, that is to say,
the trichromatic coordinates "x" and "y" of the standard illuminant "A" used to
illuminate the retro-reflecting device must not undergo a change of more than 0.01
after reflection by the retro-reflecting device.
3.1. This shall be verified by the visual comparison test indicated above, the control field
being illuminated by a light source of which the trichromatic coordinates differ
by 0.01 from that of standard illuminant A.
3.2. In case of doubt, the trichromatic coordinates for the most selective sample shall be
determined.
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Annex 7
Annex 7
PHOTOMETRIC SPECIFICATIONS
1. When applying for approval, the applicant shall specify one or more or a range of axis
of reference, corresponding to the illumination angle V = H = 0° in the table of
coefficients of luminous intensity (CIL).
In the case where more than one or a range of different axis of reference are specified
by the manufacturer, the photometric measurements shall be repeated making
reference each time to a different axis of reference or to the extreme axis of reference
of the range specified by the manufacturer.
2. For photometric measurements, only the illuminating surface defined by the planes
contiguous to the outermost parts of the optical system of the retro-reflecting device
as indicated by the manufacturer and contained within a circle of 200 mm diameter
for Class IA or IB shall be considered, and the illuminating surface itself shall be
limited to 100 cm2 though the surfaces of the retro-reflecting optical units need not
necessarily attain this area. The manufacturer shall specify the perimeter of the area
to be used. In the case of Class IIIA, Class IIIB and Class IVA, the whole of the
illuminating surfaces shall be considered without limitation as to size.
3. CIL values
3.1. Class IA, Class IB, Class IIIA and Class IIIB
3.1.1. The CIL values for red retro-reflecting devices must be at least equal to those in the
table below, expressed in millicandelas per lux, for the angles of divergence and
illumination shown.
Class Angle of
divergence Illumination angles (in degrees)
α
CIL values lower than those shown in the last two columns of the above table are not
permissible within the solid angle having the reference centre as its apex and bounded
by the planes intersecting along the following lines:
3.1.2. CIL values for amber retro-reflecting devices in Class IA or IB must be at least equal
to those in the table of paragraph 3.1.1. above multiplied by the coefficient 2.5.
3.1.3. CIL values for colourless retro-reflecting devices in Class IA or IB must be at least
equal to those in the table of paragraph 3.1.1. above multiplied by the coefficient 4.
3.2. For devices of Class IVA the CIL values must be at least equal to those in the table
below, expressed in millicandelas per lux, for the angles of divergence and
illumination shown.
Colour Angle of
divergence Illumination angles (in degrees)
α
Vertical V 0 " 10 0 0 0 0
Horizontal H 0 0 " 20 " 30 " 40 " 50
White 20' 1,800 1,200 610 540 470 400
1°30' 34 24 15 15 15 15
Amber 20' 1,125 750 380 335 290 250
1°30' 21 15 10 10 10 10
Red 20' 450 300 150 135 115 100
1°30' 9 6 4 4 4 4
If the specified values are not attained, the device may be rotated about its axis of
reference " 5° from that position.
4.3. If for the direction V = H = 0°, and for ε = 0° the CIL exceeds the specified value by
50 per cent or more, all measurements for all angles of illumination and divergence
shall be made for ε = 0°.
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Annex 8
Annex 8
1.1.1. Retro-reflecting devices whether part of a lamp or not, shall be stripped of all
removable parts and immersed for 10 minutes in water at a temperature of 50 ± 5 °C,
the highest point of the upper part of the illuminating surface being 20 mm below the
surface of the water. This test shall be repeated after turning the retro-reflecting
device through 180°, so that the illuminating surface is at the bottom and the rear face
is covered by about 20 mm of water. These optical units shall then be immediately
immersed in the same conditions in water at a temperature of 25 + 5 °C.
1.1.2. No water shall penetrate to the reflecting surface of the retro-reflecting optical unit. If
visual inspection clearly reveals the presence of water, the device shall not be
considered to have passed the test.
1.1.3. If visual inspection does not reveal the presence of water or in case of doubt, the CIL
shall be measured by the method described in Annex 4, paragraph 3.2., or Annex 14,
paragraph 4.2., the retro-reflecting device being first lightly shaken to remove excess
water from the outside.
As an alternative, at the request of the manufacturer, the following test (moisture and
dust test) shall be applied instead of the submersion-test specified in paragraph 1.1.
above.
The test evaluates the ability of the sample device to resist moisture penetration from a
water spray and determines the drainage capability of those devices with drain holes
or other exposed openings in the device.
1.2.1.1.1. Cabinet
The cabinet shall be equipped with a nozzle(s) which provides a solid cone water
spray of sufficient angle to completely cover the sample device. The centreline of the
nozzle(s) shall be directed downward at an angle of 45°+ 5° to the vertical axis of a
rotating test platform.
The rotating test platform shall have a minimum diameter of 140 mm and rotate about
a vertical axis in the centre of the cabinet.
The precipitation rate of the water spray at the device shall be 2.5 (+ 1.6/-0) mm/min
as measured with a vertical cylindrical collector centred on the vertical axis of the
rotating test platform. The height of the collector shall be 100 mm and the inside
diameter shall be a minimum of 140 mm.
A sample device mounted on a test fixture, with initial CIL measured and recorded
shall be subjected to a water spray as follows:
All drain holes and other openings shall remain open. Drain wicks, when used, shall
be tested in the device.
The device shall be rotated about its vertical axis at a rate of 4.0 + 0.5 min -1.
The water spray test shall last 12h (12 cycles of 5/55 min).
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Annex 8
The rotation and the water spray shall be turned OFF and the device allowed to drain
for 1 h with the cabinet door closed.
Upon completion of the drain period. The interior of the device shall be observed for
moisture accumulation. No standing pool of water shall be allowed to be formed, or
which can be formed by tapping or tilting the device. The CIL shall be measured
according to the method specified in Annex 4 paragraph 3.2. after having dried the
exterior of the device with a dry cotton cloth.
This test evaluates the ability of the sample device to resist dust penetration which
could significantly affect the photometric output of the retro-reflector.
The interior of the test chamber shall be cubical in shape in size 0.9 to 1.5 m per side.
The bottom may be "hopper shaped" to aid in collecting the dust. The internal
chamber volume, not including a "hopper shaped" bottom shall be 2 m3 maximum and
shall be charged with 3 to 5 kg of the test dust. The chamber shall have the capability
of agitating the test dust by means of compressed air or blower fans in such a way that
the dust is diffused throughout the chamber.
The test dust used shall be fine powdered cement in accordance with standard
ASTM C 150-84. */
A sample device, mounted on a test fixture, with the initial CIL measured and
recorded, shall be exposed to dust as follows:
All drain holes and other openings shall remain open. Drain wicks, when used, shall
be tested in the device.
The mounted device shall be placed in the dust chamber no closer than 150 mm from
a wall. Devices with a length exceeding 600 mm shall be horizontally centred in the
test chamber. The test dust shall be agitated as completely as possible by compressed
air or blower(s) at intervals of 15 min for a period of 2 to 15 s for the duration
of 5 hours. The dust shall be allowed to settle between the agitation periods.
Upon completion of the dust exposure test, the exterior of the device shall be cleaned
and dried with a dry cotton cloth and the CIL measured according to the method
specified in Annex 4, paragraph 3.2.
2. RESISTANCE TO CORROSION
2.1. Retro-reflecting devices must be so designed that they retain the prescribed
photometric and colorimetric characteristics despite the humidity and corrosive
influences to which they are normally exposed. The resistance of the front surface to
tarnishing and of the protection of the rear face to deterioration shall be checked,
particularly when an essential metal component seems liable to be attacked.
2.2. The retro-reflecting device, or the lamp if the device is combined with a light, shall
be stripped of all removable parts and subjected to the action of a saline mist for a
period of 50 hours, comprising two periods of exposure of 24 hours each, separated
by an interval of two hours during which the sample is allowed to dry.
2.3. The saline mist shall be produced by atomizing, at a temperature of 35° " 2°C, a
saline solution obtained by dissolving 20 " 2 parts by weight of sodium chloride
in 80 parts of distilled water containing not more than 0.02 per cent of impurities.
2.4. Immediately after completion of the test, the sample must not show signs of excessive
corrosion liable to impair the efficiency of the device.
3. RESISTANCE TO FUELS
The outer surface of the retro-reflecting device and, in particular, of the illuminating
surface, shall be lightly wiped with a cotton cloth soaked in a mixture of 70 vol. per
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Annex 8
cent of n-heptane and 30 vol. per cent of toluol. After about five minutes, the surface
shall be inspected visually. It must not show any apparent surface changes, except
that slight surface cracks will not be objected to.
The outer surface of the retro-reflecting device and, in particular, the illuminating
surface, shall be lightly wiped with a cotton cloth soaked in a detergent lubricating
oil. After about 5 minutes, the surface shall be cleaned. The CIL shall then be
measured (Annex 4, paragraph 3.2. or Annex 14, paragraph 4.2.).
5.1. After having brushed the rear face of the retro-reflecting device with a hard nylon
brush, a cotton cloth soaked in the mixture, defined in paragraph 3 shall be applied to
the said rear face for one minute. The cotton cloth is then removed and the retro-
reflecting device left to dry.
5.2. As soon as evaporation is completed, an abrasion test shall be made by brushing the
rear face with the same nylon brush as before.
5.3. The CIL shall then be measured (Annex 4, paragraph 3.2. or Annex 14,
paragraph 4.2.) after the whole surface of the mirror-backed rear face has been
covered with Indian ink.
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Annex 9
Annex 9
1. The authority which granted approval shall have the right to check the stability in time of
the optical properties of a type of retro-reflecting device in service.
2. The competent authorities of countries other than the country in which approval was
granted may carry out similar checks in their territory. If a type of retro-reflector in use
exhibits a systematic defect, the said authorities shall transmit any components removed
for examination to the authority which granted approval, with a request for its opinion.
3. In the absence of other criteria, the concept of "systematic defect" of a type of retro-
reflector in use shall be interpreted in conformity with the intention of paragraph 6.1. of
this Regulation.
1/ Despite the importance of tests to check the stability in time of the optical properties of
retro-reflecting devices, it is in the present state of the art not yet possible to assess this stability
by laboratory tests of limited duration.
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Annex 10
Annex 10
RESISTANCE TO HEAT
1. The retro-reflecting device shall be kept for 48 consecutive hours in a dry atmosphere at a
temperature of 65 " 2°C.
2. After this test, no cracking or appreciable distortion of the retro-reflecting device and, in
particular, of its optical component must be visible.
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Annex 11
Annex 11
COLOUR-FASTNESS 1/
1. The authority which granted approval shall have the right to check the colour-fastness of a
type of retro-reflecting device in service.
2. The competent authorities of countries other than the country in which approval was
granted may carry out similar checks in their territory. If a type of retro-reflector in use
exhibits a systematic defect, the said authorities shall transmit any components removed
for examination to the authority which granted approval, with a request for its opinion.
3. In the absence of other criteria, the concept "systematic defect" of a type of retro-reflector
in use shall be interpreted in conformity with the intention of paragraph 9.1. of this
Regulation.
Annex 12
Number Number of
of annex paragraph TESTS SAMPLES
a b c d e f g h i j
7 3. Complete photometry x x
8 4. Oils: 5 min. x x
visual inspection x x
*/ of the Regulation.
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Annex 12
Number Number of
of annex paragraph TESTS SAMPLES
a b c d e f g h i j
8 2. Corrosion: 24 hours x x
2 hours interval x x
24 hours x x
visual inspection x x
9 - Stability in time
Colorimetry: Visual inspection or
4 3.1.
trichromatic coordinates
11 - Colour-fastness
Colorimetry: Visual inspection or
4 3.1.
trichromatic coordinates
Annex 13
1. The retro-reflecting device shall be mounted in a manner similar to the way in which it is
mounted on the vehicle, but with the lens faced horizontal and directed upwards.
2. Drop a 13 mm diameter polished solid steel ball, once, vertically onto the central part of
the lens from a height of 0.76 m. The ball may be guided but not restricted in free fall.
3. When a retro-reflecting device is tested at room temperature with this method, the lens
shall not crack.
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Annex 14
Annex 14
1. The applicant shall submit for approval ten samples which shall be tested in the
chronological order indicated in Annex 15.
2. After verification of the specifications in paragraphs 6.1. to 6.5. and the specifications
of shape and dimensions (Annex 5), the ten samples shall be subjected to the heat
resistance test (Annex 10) and one hour minimum after this test examined as to their
colorimetric characteristics (Annex 6) and CIL (Annex 7) for an angle of divergence
of 20' and an illumination angle V = H = 0° or, if necessary, in the positions defined
in Annex 7. The two retro-reflecting devices giving the minimum and maximum
values shall then be fully tested as shown in Annex 7. These two samples shall be
kept by the laboratories for any further checks which may be found necessary.
3. Four samples out of the remaining eight samples shall be selected at random and
divided into two groups of two in each group.
First group:
Second group:
The two samples shall, if relevant, be subjected to the corrosion test (Annex 8,
paragraph 2.), and then to the abrasive-strength test of the rear face of the retro-
reflecting device (Annex 8, paragraph 5.). These two samples shall also be subjected
to the impact test (Annex 13).
4. After undergoing the tests referred to in the above paragraph, the retro-reflecting
devices in each group must have:
4.1. A colour which satisfies the conditions laid down in Annex 6. This shall be verified
by a qualitative method and, in case of doubt, confirmed by a quantitative method;
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Annex 13
4.2. A CIL which satisfies the conditions laid down in Annex 7. Verification shall be
performed only for an angle of divergence of 20' and an illumination angle of
V = H = 0° or, if necessary, in the positions specified in Annex 7.
5. The four remaining samples can be utilized, if necessary, for any other purpose.
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Annex 15
Annex 15
Number Number of
of annex paragraph TESTS SAMPLES
a b c d e f g h i j
7 - Complete photometry x x
8 4. Oils: 5 min. x x
visual inspection x x
8 2. Corrosion: 24 hours x x
2 hours' interval x x
24 hours x x
visual inspection x x
*/ of the Regulation.
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Annex 15
Number Number of
of annex paragraph TESTS SAMPLES
a b c d e f g h i j
13 - Impact x x
visual inspection x x
Annex 16
Retro-reflecting devices of Classes IB and IIIB shall be tested according to the test procedures
specified in Annex 4, following the chronological order of tests given in Annex 12, with the
exception of the test according to Annex 8, paragraph 1., which for Classes IB and IIIB devices
may be replaced by the test specified in Annex 8, paragraph 1.2.
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Annex 17
Annex 17
1. GENERAL
1.1. The conformity requirements shall be considered satisfied from a mechanical and
geometric standpoint, if the differences do not exceed inevitable manufacturing
deviations within the requirements of this Regulation.
For each type of retro-reflector the holder of the approval mark shall carry out at
least the following tests, at appropriate intervals. The tests shall be carried out in
accordance with the provisions of this Regulation.
If any sampling shows non-conformity with regard to the type of test concerned,
further samples shall be taken and tested. The manufacturer shall take steps to
ensure the conformity of the production concerned.
2.2.1. Tests shall generally be carried out in accordance with the methods set out in this
Regulation.
2.2.2. In any test of conformity carried out by the manufacturer, equivalent methods
may be used with the consent of the competent authority responsible for approval
tests. The manufacturer is responsible for proving that the applied methods are
equivalent to those laid down in this Regulation.
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2.2.3. The application of paragraphs 2.2.1. and 2.2.2. requires regular calibration of test
apparatus and its correlation with measurements made by a competent authority.
2.2.4. In all cases the reference methods shall be those of this Regulation, particularly
for the purpose of administrative verification and sampling.
The assessment shall in general cover series production from individual factories.
However, a manufacturer may group together records concerning the same type
from several factories, provided these operate under the same quality system and
quality management.
The manufacturer is responsible for carrying out a statistical study of the test
results and for defining, in agreement with the competent authority, criteria
governing the acceptability of his products in order to meet the specifications laid
down for the verification of conformity of products in paragraph 8.1. of this
Regulation.
The criteria governing the acceptability shall be such that, with a confidence level
of 95 per cent, the minimum probability of passing a spot check in accordance
with Annex 18 (first sampling) would be 0.95.
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Annex 18
Annex 18
1. GENERAL
1.1. The conformity requirements shall be considered satisfied from a mechanical and
a geometric standpoint, in accordance with the requirements of this Regulation, if
any, if the differences do not exceed inevitable manufacturing deviations.
1.2.1. no measured value deviates unfavourably by more than 20 per cent from the
minimum values prescribed in this Regulation.
2. FIRST SAMPLING
In the first sampling four retro-reflectors are selected at random. The first sample
of two is marked A, the second sample of two is marked B.
2.1.1. Following the sampling procedure shown in Figure 1 of this annex the conformity
of mass-produced retro-reflectors shall not be contested if the deviation of the
measured values of the retro-reflectors in the unfavourable directions are:
2.1.1.1. sample A
2.1.1.2. sample B
2.2.1. Following the sampling procedure shown in Figure 1 of this annex the conformity
of mass-produced retro-reflectors shall be contested and the manufacturer
requested to make his production meet the requirements (alignment) if the
deviations of the measured values of the retro-reflectors are:
2.2.1.1. sample A
2.2.1.2. sample B
Conformity shall be contested and paragraph 9. applied if, following the sampling
procedure in Figure 1 of this annex, the deviations of the measured values of the
retro-reflectors are:
2.3.1. sample A
2.3.2. sample B
3. REPEATED SAMPLING
In the cases of A3, B2, B3 a repeated sampling, third sample C of two retro-
reflectors and fourth sample D of two retro-reflectors, selected from stock
manufactured after alignment, is necessary within two months' time after the
notification.
3.1.1. Following the sampling procedure shown in Figure 1 of this annex the conformity
of mass-produced retro-reflectors shall not be contested if the deviations of the
measured values of the retro-reflectors are:
3.1.1.1. sample C
3.1.1.2. sample D
3.2.1. Following the sampling procedure shown in Figure 1 of this annex the conformity
of mass-produced retro-reflectors shall be contested and the manufacturer
requested to make his production meet the requirements (alignment) if the
deviations of the measured values of the retro-reflectors are:
3.2.1.1. sample D
Conformity shall be contested and paragraph 9. applied if, following the sampling
procedure in Figure 1 of this annex, the deviations of the measured values of the
retro-reflectors are:
3.3.1. sample C
3.3.2. sample D
The retro-reflectors shall be considered as acceptable if the test has been passed.
However, if the test on sample A is not complied with, the two retro-reflectors of
sample B shall be subjected to the same procedure and both shall pass the test.
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Figure 1
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