L 373/272 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 Only the original UN/ECE texts have legal effect  under international public  law. The status and 
date of entry into force of this Regulation shoul d be checked in the late st version of the UN/ECE 
status document TRANS/WP.29/343/Rev.X, available at: 
http://www.unece.org/trans/main/w p29/wp29wgs/wp29gen/wp29fdocstts.html . 
 
 
Regulation No 114 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the  
United Nations (UN/ECE). 
Uniform provisions concerning the approval of : 
I. An Airbag Module for a Replacement Airbag System; II. A Replacement Steering Wheel e quipped with an Airbag Module of an 
Approved Type; 
III. A Replacement Airbag System other th an that installed in a Steering Wheel. 
 
 1. SCOPE   This Regulation applies to the following aftermarket equipment:  1.1. to airbag modules for replacement airb ag systems intended to be installed on 
motor vehicles; 
 1.2. to replacement steering wheels for vehicles of categories M
1 and N 1, equipped 
with an airbag module of an approved t ype and intended to be installed as an 
additional restraint system beside safety -belts and other restraint systems in 
power-driven vehicles, i.e. a system wh ich, in the event of a severe impact, 
automatically deploys a flexible structur e intended to reduce  the severity of 
injuries of the occupants; 
 1.3. to replacement airbag systems other than  those installed in steering wheels and 
equipped with airbag modules of an a pproved type as an additional restraint 
system beside safety-belts and other rest raint systems in power-driven vehicles of 
categories M
1 and N 1, i.e. a system which, in th e event of a severe impact, 
automatically deploys a flexible structur e intended to reduce  the severity of 
injuries of the occupants. 
 2. DEFINITIONS  2.1. "Airbag system" means a group of compone nts which, once installed in vehicle(s), 
perform all functions provided for by the manufacturer. This system comprises as 
a minimum a release unit activating one or  more airbag modules and the electrical 
wiring harness, if present. 
 2.2. "Airbag" means a flexible material, formi ng an enclosed volume  that receives the 
gas from the inflator an d restrains the occupant. 
 2.3. "Airbag module" means the smallest sub-assembly comprising the energy source 
for its deployment and the airb ag involved in the deployment. 
 2.4. "Replacement steering wheel" (equipped with an airbag module) means an 
aftermarket steering wheel which is supplie d to modify a motor vehicle and which 
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/273 
 may vary in its functional dimensions, fo rm and/or material from the original 
steering wheel provided by the vehicle manufacturer. 
 2.5. "Replacement airbag system" means an aftermarket airbag system which is 
supplied to modify a motor vehicle, and which may vary in its functional 
dimensions, form, materials or operati on from any original airbag system 
provided by the vehicle manufactur er for that motor vehicle. 
 
2.6. Categories of airbag modules for replacement airbag systems: 
 2.6.1. Category A:  Device intended to protect th e driver of a vehicl e in the event of a 
frontal collision. 
 2.6.2. Category B:  Device intend ed to protect front seat passenger(s) other than the 
driver in  the event of a frontal collision. 
 2.6.3. Category C: Device intended to protect the passenger(s) in seats other than the 
front seats in the event of a frontal collision. 
 2.6.4. Category D: Device intended to protect th e front seat occupant (s) in the event of 
a lateral collision. 
 2.7. "Instant of release" means the moment at  which, in the event of an impact causing 
airbag deployment, the components produc ing that deployment are irreversibly 
actuated. 
 2.8. "Control unit or release unit" means th e sub-assembly comp rising all components 
permitting the collision to be detected and producing release. 
 2.9. "Wiring harness" means all the electri cal conductors and connections linking the 
various parts of the complete airbag sy stem to each other and possibly to the 
vehicle. 
 2.10. "Unladen kerb mass" means the mass of the vehicle in running order, unoccupied 
and unladen but complete with fuel, coolan t, lubricant, tools and spare wheel (if 
these are provided as a standard equipment by the vehicle manufacturer). 
 2.11. "Type of an airbag module for a replacement airbag system" comprises airbag 
modules which do not differ in such essential aspects as: 
 
(a) the category of an airbag module, (b) the geometry of the airbag, (c) the material of the airbag, (d) the vents or equivalent devices, (e) the gas generator, (f) the envelope principle, (g) the material, structure an d dimension of the cover, 
(h) the composition of the propellant, (i) the method of fixation of the module. 
 2.12. "Type of a replacement steering wheel e quipped with an airbag module" means 
L 373/274 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 aftermarket steering wheels, which do not differ in such essential aspects as: 
 
(a) the presence of an airbag, (b) the dimension and diameter of the steering wheel, (c) the form, in so far as the safety pe rformance and the strength performance is 
influenced, 
(d) the material, (e) the type definition of an airbag module for a replacement airbag system 
according to paragraph 2.11. above. 
 2.13. "Type of a replacement airbag system other than that installed in a steering wheel" 
comprises replacement airbag systems, which do not differ in such essential 
respects as: 
 
(a) the category of airbag module, (b) the geometry of the airbag, (c) the material of the airbag, (d) the vents or equivalent devices, (e) the gas generator, (f) the envelope principle, (g) the material, structure an d dimension of the cover, 
(h) the composition of the propellant, (i) the method of fixation of the module. 
 2.14. "Vehicle type" means a category of powe r-driven vehicles, which do not differ in 
such essential respects in so far as they have an effect on the results of the impact tests prescribed in this Regulation for: 
 
(a) the structure, dimension, body version and materials of the vehicle, (b) the unladen kerb mass, as defined in paragraph 2.10. above, 
(c) the steering control, the seat and th e safety-belt system and other restraint 
systems, 
(d) the siting and orientation of the engine, (e) the parts and optional arrangements or fittings of the vehicle which influence 
the performance of the airbag. 
 3. APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL  3.1. Application for approval of an airbag  module for a replacement airbag system 
 3.1.1. The application for approval of an airb ag module shall be submitted by the holder 
of the trade mark of the airbag module manufacturer, the co mponent manufacturer 
or by their duly accredited representatives. 
 3.1.2. For each category of an airbag module for a replacement airbag system, the 
application shall be accompanied by the fo llowing documents in triplicate and the 
following particulars: 
 3.1.2.1. A technical description, including m ounting instructions and specifying the 
type(s) of vehicle for which the airbag module is intended, 
 
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/275 
 3.1.2.2. Sufficiently detailed drawings to permit the verification of the positions intended 
for the approval mark as required under paragraph 4.1.4. below. 
 3.1.2.3. A sufficient number of airbag modules sh all be submitted to the technical service 
responsible for the tests and verification of the conformity with the relevant 
paragraphs 5. and 6. of this Regulation. 
 3.2. Application for approval of a replacement  steering wheel equipped with an airbag 
module of an approved type 
 3.2.1. The application for approval of a repl acement steering wheel equipped with an 
airbag module shall be submitted by th e holder of the trademark of the 
replacement steering wheel or by the ma nufacturer, or by their duly accredited 
representative. 
 3.2.2. For each type of a replacement steering wheel equipped with an airbag module, 
the application shall be accompanied by the following documents in triplicate and 
the following particulars: 
 3.2.2.1. a technical description, in cluding mounting instructions, 
 3.2.2.2. sufficiently detailed drawings,   3.2.2.3. drawings showing the position of the airbag module(s) and its (their) 
attachment(s) on the steering wheel, 
 3.2.2.4. the position intended for the approval  mark and required under paragraph 4.2.4. 
below, 
 3.2.2.5. a sufficient number of replacement steeri ng wheels equipped with  airbag modules 
and vehicles representative of the type s for which the replacement steering wheel 
shall be approved for shall be submitted to the technical serv ice responsible for 
conducting the approval tests so as to ve rify conformity with the relevant 
paragraphs 5. and 6. of this Regulation. 
 3.3. Application for approval of a replacement airbag system other than that installed 
in a steering wheel 
 3.3.1. The application for approval of a repl acement airbag system other than that 
installed in a steering wheel shall be s ubmitted by the holder of the trade mark of 
the replacement airbag system or by the manufacturer, or by their duly accredited 
representatives. 
 3.3.2. For each type of a replacement airb ag system, the application shall be 
accompanied by the following documents in triplicate and the following particulars: 
 3.3.2.1. a technical description, in cluding mounting instructions, 
 3.3.2.2. sufficiently detailed drawings,   
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 3.3.2.3. drawings showing the position of the airb ag system(s) and its (their) attachment(s) 
on the vehicle, 
 3.3.2.4. the position intended for the approval  mark and required under paragraph 4.3.4. 
below, 
 3.3.2.5. a sufficient number of replacement airbag systems and vehicles representative of 
the types for which the replacement system shall be approved for, shall be 
submitted to the technical service respons ible for conducting the approval tests so 
as to verify conformity with the releva nt paragraphs 5. and 6. of this Regulation. 
 4. APPROVAL  4.1. Approval of an airbag module for a replacement airbag system  4.1.1. If the samples of the airbag module s ubmitted for approval meet the requirements 
of the relevant paragraphs 5. and 6. below, approval for this type of airbag module 
for a replacement airbag system shall be granted. 
 4.1.2. An approval number shall be assigned to each type approved.  Its first two digits 
(00 at present) shall indi cate the series of amendmen ts incorporating the most 
recent major technical amendments made to  the Regulation at the time of issue of 
the approval.  The same Contracting Pa rty may not assign the same number to 
another type of airbag module for a replacement airbag system. 
 4.1.3. Notice of approval or of re fusal or extension or wit hdrawal of approval or of 
definite discontinuation of production of  a type of airbag module for a 
replacement airbag system, pursuant to this Regulation, shall be communicated to 
the Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation, by means of a form 
conforming to the model in Annex 1 to this Regulation. 
 4.1.4. The samples of airbag modules for a repl acement airbag system shall be clearly 
and indelibly marked with the manufacturer 's trade name or mark and an approval 
mark consisting of: 
 4.1.4.1. a circle surrounding the letter "E" foll owed by the distinguishing number of the 
country which has granted approval, (
1) 
 
__________ 
1  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 th e 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 Portuga l, 22 for the Russian Federation,  23 for Greece, 24 fo r Ireland, 25 for 
Croatia, 26 for Slovenia, 27 for Slovakia, 28 for Bela rus, 29 for Estonia, 30 (vacant), 31 for Bosnia and 
Herzegovina, 32 for Latvia, 33 (vacant), 34 for Bulgar ia, 35 (vacant), 36 for Lit huania, 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 and 48 for New Zealand.  Subsequent 
numbers shall be assigned to other countries in the ch ronological 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. 
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/277 
 4.1.4.2. an approval number, 
 4.1.4.3. an additional symbol, indicating the airbag module category (see paragraph 2.6. 
above). 
 4.1.5. The approval mark and the additional symbol shall be clearly legible and 
indelible. 
 
4.1.6. Annex 4 to this Regulation gives an example of the approval mark and the 
additional symbol mentioned above. 
 4.2. Approval of a replacement steering wheel e quipped with an airbag module of an 
approved type 
 4.2.1. If a replacement steering wheel type equipped with an airbag module of an 
approved type submitted for approval meets the requirements of the relevant paragraphs 5. and 6. below, approval of that type of replacement steering wheel 
equipped with an airbag module of an approved type shall be granted. 
 4.2.2. An approval number shall be assigned to each type approved.  Its first two digits 
(00 at present) shall indi cate the series of amendmen ts incorporating the most 
recent major technical amendments made to  the Regulation at the time of issue of 
the approval.  The same Contracting Pa rty may not assign the same number to 
another type of repl acement steering wheel. 
 4.2.3. Notice of approval or refusal or extension or withdrawal of appr oval or of definite 
discontinuation of production of a type of replacement steering wheel equipped 
with an airbag module of an approved t ype pursuant to this Regulation shall be 
communicated to the Parties to the Agr eement applying this Regulation, by means 
of a form conforming to the model in Annex 2 to this Regulation. 
 4.2.4. The samples of the replacement airbag steering wheel and the hub (adapters) shall 
be clearly and indelibly marked with th e manufacturer's trade name or mark and 
an approval mark consisting of: 
 4.2.4.1. a circle surrounding the letter "E" foll owed by the distinguishing number of the 
country which has granted approval, (
2) 
 4.2.4.2. an approval number,  4.2.4.3. an additional symbol, indicating the airbag module category (see paragraph. 2.6. 
above). 
 4.2.5. The approval mark and the additional symbol shall be clearly legible and 
indelible. 
 4.2.6.  The approval mark shall be placed on the replacement steering wheel and on the 
hub (adapter).  If the replacement steeri ng wheel and hub are in one piece, one 
approval mark and one mark with the ma nufacturer's trade name or mark is 
__________ 
2  See footnote No. 1 
L 373/278 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 sufficient. 
 4.2.7. Annex 5 to this Regulation gives an example of the approval mark and the 
additional symbol mentioned above. 
 4.3. Approval of a replacement airbag system other than that inst alled in a steering 
wheel 
 
4.3.1. If a replacement airbag system other than that installed in a steering wheel 
submitted for approval meets the requirements of the relevant paragraphs 5. and 6. below, approval of that type of repla cement airbag system shall be granted. 
 4.3.2. An approval number shall be assigned to each type approved.  Its first two digits 
(00 at present) shall indi cate the series of amendmen ts incorporating the most 
recent major technical amendments made to  the Regulation at the time of issue of 
the approval.  The same Contracting Pa rty may not assign the same number to 
another type of replacement airbag system. 
 4.3.3. Notice of approval or refusal or extension or withdrawal of appr oval or of definite 
discontinuation of production of a replacem ent airbag system pursuant to this 
Regulation shall be communicated to the Parties to the Agreement applying this 
Regulation, by means of a form conforming to the model in Annex 3 to this Regulation. 
 4.3.4. The samples of the replacement airbag system shall be clearly and indelibly 
marked with the manufacturer's trade name or mark and an approval mark 
consisting of: 
 4.3.4.1. a circle surrounding the letter "E" foll owed by the distinguishing number of the 
country which has granted approval, (
3) 
 4.3.4.2. an approval number,  4.3.4.3. an additional symbol, indicating the airbag module category (see paragraph. 2.6. 
above). 
 4.3.5. The approval mark and the additional symbol shall be clearly legible and 
indelible. 
 4.3.6. Annex 6 to this Regulation gives an example of the approval mark and the 
additional symbol mentioned above. 
 5.  REQUIREMENTS  5.1. General requirements for the approval of an airbag module for a replacement 
airbag system, a replacement steering wh eel equipped with an airbag module of 
an approved type, or a replacement airbag system other than that installed in a 
steering wheel. 
 
__________ 
3 See footnote No. 1  
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/279 
 5.1.1. Before type approval is granted accord ing to paragraphs 4.1., 4.2. and/or 4.3., the 
competent authority shall verify the ex istence of satisfactory arrangements for 
ensuring: 
 5.1.1.1. installation, maintenance, repair a nd dismantling of the system by trained 
technicians only according to a manual, wh ich shall be prepared by the applicant 
of the approval. 
 
5.1.1.2. substitution of a part or the comple te system after guaranteed lifetime, 
 5.1.1.3. labelling and notices for rescue persons, labelling and information for the use of 
child restraint systems. 
 5.1.2. Interference from magnetic fields shall not disrupt the operation of the airbag 
system. 
 5.1.3. A complete system shall comprise a device alerting the user if the airbag system is 
not in working order as designed. 
 5.1.4. Airbag modules for replacement airbag system of category A shall be so designed 
that, when they are submitted to a test  in accordance with the requirements of 
paragraph 5.2.2.7., static deployment test , the airbag may be pushed aside 
manually after full deployment. 
 5.1.5. Toxicity and burns   A certificate shall be presented stating that the nature, concentration and 
temperature of the gases and solid particle s released on deployment of an airbag 
are not such as to be liable to injure se riously the occupants of the vehicle.  The 
authorities responsible for issuing the appr oval shall reserve the right to verify the 
accuracy of the statement.  
 5.2. Requirements for the approval of an ai rbag module for a replacement airbag 
system 
 5.2.1. Each airbag module shall comply with the requirements of the "International 
Standard ISO 12097-2 ROAD VEHI CLES-AIRBAG COMPONENT TESTING-
PART 2:  Testing of Airbag Modules " version: 1996-08-00, to guarantee the 
operating safety of the airbag modules. 
  Airbag modules designed for front seats equipped with side airbag systems shall 
comply, as far as possible, with the requirements of the above-mentioned ISO Standard (for example tests according to paragraph 5.2.2.). 
  The module manufacturer shall state that  the above-mentioned tests were carried 
out with positive test results.  In case of  doubts the approval authority responsible 
for issuing the approval shall reserve the right to verify the accuracy of this 
statement. 
 5.2.2. Instead of paragraph 5.2.1., a reduced test programme is permitted which shows 
as a minimum the following test elements: 
L 373/280 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
  
5.2.2.1. Drop test  5.2.2.2. Mechanical impact test  5.2.2.3. Simultaneous vibration temperature test  5.2.2.4. Thermal humidity cycling test 
 
5.2.2.5. Solar radiation simulation test  5.2.2.6. Temperature shock test  5.2.2.7. Static deployment test  5.3. Requirements for the approval of a replacement steering wheel equipped with an 
airbag module of an approved type 
 5.3.1. Before type approval is granted acco rding to paragraph 4.2., the competent 
authority shall verify the existence of satisfactory arrangemen ts for carrying out: 
 5.3.1.1. a heat test of the replacement steering wheel (all parts except the airbag module), 
as described in paragraph 6.2.1.1., to gua rantee a cohesion of all materials. 
 5.3.1.2. a bending test, as described in paragraph  6.2.1.2., to guarantee a minimum 
deformation of the steering wheel rim, 
 5.3.1.3. a torque test, as described in paragra ph  6.2.1.3., to guarantee a sufficient stiffness 
when the replacement steering wheel is load ed tangentially to the steering wheel 
rim, 
 5.3.1.4. a fatigue test, as described in paragra ph  6.2.1.4., to guarantee a sufficient lifetime. 
 5.3.2. For the replacement steering wheel, it mu st be guaranteed that the effective 
diameter is not substantially smaller than  the effective diameter of the steering 
wheel installed by the manufacturer of the vehicle.  This requirement is deemed 
fulfilled when the effective diameter of the replacement steering wheel is not less than 0.9 times the effective diameter of  the steering wheel used by the vehicle 
manufacturer. 
 5.3.3. The size and fitting of the replacement stee ring wheel to the steering column must 
be within the dimensions and tolerances  specified by the vehicle manufacturer. 
Otherwise the replacement manufacturer shall demonstrate to the Technical 
Service the proper function of any other chosen fixing method. 
 5.3.4. The replacement steering wheel shall al low the drivers a direct view to all 
important instruments an d indicators such as 
 
(a) the speedometer and  (b) the tell tale signs for: 
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  direction indicator 
 main beam  rear fog lamp  hazard warning signal  automatic antilock system  brake system malfunctions   airbag function indicator 
 
 The tests shall be carried out according to  the prescription laid down in paragraph 
6.2.2. 
 5.3.5. Replacement steering wheels equipped with airbag modules of an approved type 
shall be such that, when installed in a vehi cle, this vehicle fulfils the requirements 
of paragraphs 5.2.1.1., 5.2.1.2., 5.2.1.3., 5.2.1.4. and 5.2.1.5. of Regulation No. 94, 01 series of amendments. 
  In case of doubt, when verifying the c onformity of the replacement steering wheel 
equipped with an airbag module of an a pproved type to the requirements of this 
Regulation, account shall be taken of any data or test results provided by the 
applicant for approval, and these can be ta ken into considerati on in validating the 
approval test carried out by the technical service. 
 5.4. Requirements for the approval of a replacement airbag system other than that 
installed in a steering wheel 
 5.4.1. Replacement airbag systems shall be equi pped with an approved airbag module or 
it shall be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the technical serv ice, responsible for 
this test, that the system used complie s with the requirements prescribed in 
paragraphs 5.1. and 5.2. above. 
 5.4.2. Replacement airbag systems other than t hose installed in steering wheels shall be 
such that, when installed in a vehicle, th is vehicle fulfils in case of an airbag 
system of: 
 5.4.2.1. category B, the requirements of paragraphs 5.2.1.1., 5.2.1.2., 5.2.1.3., 5.2.1.4., and 
5.2.1.5. of Regulation No. 94, 01 series of amendments; 
 5.4.2.2. category C, the requirements of paragraphs 5.2.1.1., 5.2.1.2., 5.2.1.3., 5.2.1.4., and 
5.2.1.5. of Regulation No. 94, 01 series of am endments; in addition instrumented 
dummies shall be used for the verifica tion of the performance of the airbag 
system; 
 5.4.2.3. category D, the requirements of paragraphs 5.2.1.1., 5.2.1.2., 5.2.1.3., 5.2.1.4., and 
5.2.1.5. of Regulation No. 95, 01 series of am endments; in this case the side 
impact dummy shall be used for the test. 
 6. TESTS  6.1. Tests of an airbag module for a replacement airbag system   The tests shall be carried out accordi ng to ISO 12097-Part 2, version 1996-08-00. 
L 373/282 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
  
6.2. Tests of a replacement steering wheel e quipped with an airbag module of an 
approved type 
 6.2.1. Strength tests:  6.2.1.1. Heat test  
 The replacement steering wheel (except the airbag module) is exposed to the 
following temperature carri ed out in one circle: 
 
-  16 hours at  - 15°C ± 2°C - 30 minutes at + 22°C ± 2°C - 3 hours at + 80°C ± 2°C - 30 minutes at -  22°C ± 2°C 
  This test must leave no permanent deformation over and above the design 
tolerances, or any cracks or fractures. 
 6.2.1.2. Bending test   The replacement steering wheel is expos ed to a temperature of at least - 
15°C ± 2°C for 16 hours.  The replacement steering wheel is then mounted with 
its hub on a rigid shaft and th e steering wheel rim is subjected to a static loading 
of 70 daN ± 0.5 daN acting perpendicular to th e plane of the rim.  The test loading 
must be applied on the rim and between  two spokes that confine the greatest 
angle. 
  This test may not leave any permanent deformation on the rim of the replacement 
steering wheel that would be greater th an 8 per cent of the steering wheel 
diameter.  There must be no signs of any cracks or fractures, which will affect the operational safety of the steering wheel. 
 6.2.1.3. Torque test   The replacement steering wheel is m ounted with its hub on a rigid shaft and 
subjected statically to a te st load of 70 daN ±  0.5 daN applied tangentially to the 
steering wheel rim. The permanent deforma tion resulting from this test may not 
exceed 1 degree in the direction of rotati on.  The test may not leave any signs of 
cracks or fractures, which might affect the operational safe ty of the steering 
wheel.  The steering wheel rim is then subjected to a tangential load corresponding to a torque or 22 daNm ± 0.5 daNm.  This must not affect the 
steering wheel's operational safety even if the permanent deformation is greater 
than 1 degree in the direction of rotation. 
 6.2.1.4. Fatigue test   The replacement steering wheel is mounted with its rim in a test jig, as shown in 
Annex 7, figure of an example of a fati gue test device, a nd subjected to a 
approximate sinusoidal endurance load  cycle test with a torque of 
14 daNm ± 0.5 daNm at a frequency of 1.5 Hz ± 0.25 Hz. 
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/283 
  
 The replacement steering wheel must withstand at least 1 x 105 load cycles 
without showing any signs of cracks or  fractures which might affect its 
operational safety. 
 6.2.2. Installation requirement tests and driv er's view to the instrument panel 
 6.2.2.1. The driver's view to: 
 
(a) the speedometer  (b) the tell tales for:   direction indicator  main beam  rear fog lamp  hazard warning signal  automatic antilock system  brake system malfunctions  airbag function indicator 
  shall be guaranteed.  The visibility is assessed by means of a comparative 
evaluation of photographs taken of the inst rument panel of the vehicle under test 
equipped with a replacement steering wheel. The H points are measured after the vehicle has been aligned on the th ree dimensional measuring device. 
 The relation between vehicle and coor dinate system is established through 
reference points of the body. 
  If the coordinates of the R point are not  known, the H point is determined using a 
50 percentile manikin. The driver's seat is adjusted as follows: 
  (a) seat in rearmost position of the device for longitudinal adjustment; 
 (b) backrest inclined corresponding to 25° back angle of the manikin;  (c) other adjusting devices in central position.   A 35 mm camera inclined by 15° towards the horizontal plane is used to simulate 
binocular viewing and photos are ta ken from each of the eye points. 
  Position of the eye points related to the R or H point in the coordinate system in 
accordance with ISO 4130 (dimensions in mm): 
 
x y z  x y z 
0 - 32.5 + 635.0  0 + 32.5 + 635.0 
  
 For the camera the eye points are dete rmined 35 mm in front of the plane of 
representation (normally the film plane)  and on the centre axis of the optical 
system. 
 6.2.2.2. Operation of control elements 
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 An examination is made to find out whether the minimum and maximum 
distances indicated below between the cont rol elements for instance for direction 
indicator and headlamp flasher and the st eering wheel rim are maintained.  Thus, 
satisfactory operation of the control elem ents and satisfactory handling of the 
replacement steering wheel are to be ensured: 
 
(a) the measure "a" with a limitation of a minimum 30 mm refers to the control 
element with the smallest distance to  the replacement steering wheel.  It 
denotes the shortest distance between the control element and the rearplane of the steering wheel rim facing the instrument panel.  
 (b) The measure "b" with a limitation of  a maximum value of 130 mm denotes the 
distance from the centre of the direction indicator control element and the front 
plane of the steering whee l rim facing the driver.  
 6.2.2.3. Testing of installation   The conditions of installation, the diamet er of the replacement steering wheel as 
compared with the original version of the vehicle manufacturer, the repositioning of direction indicato r control, the function of the audible warning device and the 
function of the airbag tell  tale are considered in the examination.  Also the 
function of sensors monitoring the driver 's seat or the passenger seat(s) and 
providing a deployment status to the airb ag controller shall be examined, if 
available. 
 6.2.2.4. Testing of adapters  
 The fitting dimensions (e.g. toothing of th e steering shaft) are compared with the 
dimensions as provided by the manuf acturer using a profile projector. 
  The strength of the replacement adap ters is checked by tightening the fixing 
nut/screw applying twice the tighteni ng torque specified by the vehicle 
manufacturer but not more than 85 Nm. 
  Adequate examinations are made to verify  that the adapters for vehicle types with 
anti-theft systems integrated into the steering wheel confor m to the corresponding 
features of the steering wh eel produced by the vehicle manufacture in terms of 
strength, dimensions and the materials a nd function, or tests of the anti-theft 
system in accordance with Regulation No. 18 shall be carried out to demonstrate 
that he replacement steering wheel system fulfils the above-mentioned 
Regulation. 
 6.2.3. Frontal impact test(s) wi th vehicle(s) for replacem ent steering wheel(s) equipped 
with an airbag module of an approved type. 
  Replacement steering wheels equipped with airbag modules of an approved type 
shall be such that, when installed in a vehi cle, this vehicle fulfils the requirements 
of paragraphs 5.2.1.1., 5.2.1.2., 5.2.1.3., 5.2.1.4. and 5.2.1.5. of Regulation No. 94, 01 series of amendments. 
 
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/285 
  In case of doubt, when verifying the c onformity of the replacement steering wheel 
equipped with an airbag module of an a pproved type to the requirements of this 
Regulation, account shall be taken of any data or test results provided by the 
applicant for approval, and these can be taken in consideratio n in validating the 
approval test carried out by the technical service. 
 6.3. Tests of a replacement airbag  system other than that in stalled in a steering wheel 
 
6.3.1. Tests of an airbag module for a replacement airbag system 
  The replacement airbag system shall be  equipped with an approved airbag module 
or the manufacturer of the replacement ai rbag system shall demonstrate to the 
satisfaction of the technical se rvice, responsible for this test, that the system fulfils 
the requirements as prescribed in paragraphs 5.1. and 5.2. above. 
 6.3.2. Replacement airbag systems other than t hose installed in steering wheels shall be 
such that when installed in a vehicle, this vehicle fulfils: 
 6.3.2.1. in case of an airbag system of categor y B, the requirements of paragraphs 5.2.1.1., 
5.2.1.2., 5.2.1.3., 5.2.1.4., and 5.2.1.5. of Regulation No. 94, 01 series of amendments; 
 6.3.2.2. in case of an airbag system of categor y C, the requirements of paragraphs 5.2.1.1., 
5.2.1.2., 5.2.1.3., 5.2.1.4., and 5.2.1.5. of Regulation No. 94, 01 series of amendments; in addition instrumented dumm ies shall be used for the verification 
of the performance of  the airbag system; 
 6.3.2.3. in case of an airbag system of categor y D, the requirements of paragraphs 5.2.1.1., 
5.2.1.2., 5.2.1.3., 5.2.1.4., and 5.2.1.5. of Regulation No. 95, 01 series of amendments; in this case the side impact dummy shall be used for the test. 
 7. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USERS  7.1. The manufacturer of the replacement airb ag systems shall include in the operating 
instructions any recommendations or pr ecautions to be taken during the use, 
maintenance or destruction of the sy stem or of any of its components. 
 7.1.1. In particular:  7.1.1.1. If the system is fitted with a monitoring device intended to inform the user of its 
operating condition, it shall be  clearly indicated how messages delivered by the 
system, of whatever kind, are to be inte rpreted.  An indication shall be given of 
measures to be taken in the event of  a message warning of malfunctioning, 
together with a description of any risk involved in using the vehicle in such a 
condition; 
 7.1.1.2. It shall be indicated whet her maintenance or repair work is to be performed 
exclusively by specially trained personnel,  and whether any risks are involved in 
disassembling the system; 
 7.1.1.3. The procedure to be followed in the event of deployment shall be explained.  In 
L 373/286 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 particular, details shall be given of any precautions to be taken as regards products 
generated by deployment, in the form of gases, liquids or solids.  Similarly, if 
there is any danger from the components of  the system as a result of deployment, 
such as dangerous roughness or sharp edge s, temperature, corrosion, etc., these 
dangers shall be described, as we ll as the ways of avoiding them; 
 7.1.1.4. If the scrapping of the replacement airbag  system(s) can lead to situations which 
are dangerous either direc tly to humans or to the e nvironment, an appropriate 
procedure for avoiding them shall be indi cated.  This may consist in a method for 
deliberately releasing the airbag if its re leased state does not lead to a dangerous 
situation, in an obligation to return the system or part of it to the constructor or 
manufacturer, or in any ot her appropriate measure. 
 7.2 The replacement airbag system shall carry labelling and information for the use of 
child restraint systems according to Regulation No. 94. 
  Airbag systems with airbag modules of  category A, B, C or D shall carry the 
inscription "AIRBAG" located in the in terior of the circumference of the 
replacement steering wheel or on the cover of the airbag module; this inscription 
shall be durably affixed and easily visible. 
  In addition, in the case of a frontal pr otection airbag system intended for use in 
any passenger seating positi on, the following label shall be permanently attached 
to the visible surface of the cover of th e airbag module (the text information 
shown is a minimum). 
  This label shall be provided in the lan guage(s) of the country where the device is 
sold. 
  Label minimum size:  60 x 120 mm.  
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/287 
  
  Label outline, vertical 
and horizontal line 
black    
 Artwork black with    Bottom text black    
 white background   with white background   
       
 Circle and line red with    Top text and symbol black   
 white background    with yellow background  
     
 
 
 
DO NOT place re ar-facing child 
seat on front se at with airbag  
 
  
DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY  
can occur    
 
  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: 
 8.1. 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.  Where negative 
results are recorded during one of thes e verifications, their frequency may be 
increased.  
 8.2. Conformity of production of an airbag  module for a replacement airbag system 
  Airbag modules approved under this Regul ation shall be so manufactured as to 
conform to the type approved by meeting th e requirements set forth in paragraphs 
5.1. and 5.2. above. 
 8.3. Conformity of production of  replacement steering wheel equipped with an airbag 
module of an approved type 
  Replacement steering wheels equipped with an airbag module of an approved type 
L 373/288 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 and approved under this Regulation shall be so manufactured as to conform to the 
type approved by meeting the requiremen ts set forth in paragraphs 5.1. and 5.3. 
above. 
 8.4. Conformity of production of a replacement airbag system other than that installed 
in a steering wheel 
  Replacement airbag systems other than  those installed in steering wheels 
approved under this Regulation shall be so manufactured as to conform to the type 
approved by meeting the requirements se t forth in paragraphs 5.1. and 5.4. above. 
 9. PENALTIES FOR NON-CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION   The approval granted for a type of airbag  module for a replacement airbag system, 
a type of replacement steering wheel equippe d with an airbag of an approved type, 
or a type of replacement ai rbag system other than th at installed in a steering 
wheel, pursuant to this Regulation, may be  withdrawn if the requirements laid 
down in paragraph 8. above  are not complied with. 
 10. MODIFICATIONS OF THE TYPE  OF AIRBAG MODULE FOR A 
REPLACEMENT AIRBAG SYSTEM OR  THE TYPE OF REPLACEMENT 
STEERING WHEEL WITH AN AIRB AG MODULE OF AN APPROVED 
TYPE OR THE TYPE OF REPL ACEMENT AIRBAG SYSTEM, OTHER 
THAN THAT INSTALLED IN A STEERING WHEEL 
 10.1. Every modification of the type of the a bove-mentioned system shall be notified to 
the administrative department which appr oved the type.  The department may then 
either: 
 10.1.1. decide that the modifications made are unlikely to have an appreciable adverse 
effect and that in any case the module or  the system or the replacement steering 
wheel still meets the requirements, 
 10.1.2. require a further test repo rt from the technical service responsible for conducting 
the tests. 
 10.2. Confirmation or refusal of approval,  specifying the alterations, shall be 
communicated by the procedure specified in paragraphs 4.1. to 4.3. above to the 
other Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation. 
 10.3. The competent authority which has issued  the extension of a pproval shall assign a 
series number to that extension and so  inform the other Parties to the 1958 
Agreement applying this Regulation,  by means of a communication form 
conforming to the models in Annexes 1, 2 and 3 to this Regulation. 
 11. PRODUCTION DEFINI TELY DISCONTINUED 
  If the holder of the approval ceases comp letely to manufacture a type of airbag 
module for a replacement airbag system or a type of replacement steering wheel 
equipped with an airbag of an approved type or a type of replacement airbag 
system other than that installed in a st eering wheel under this Regulation, he shall 
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/289 
 inform the authority which granted the approval.  Upon receiving the relevant 
communication, that authority shall inform  thereof the other Parties to the 1958 
Agreement applying this Regulation,  by means of a communication form 
conforming to the models in Annexes 1, 2 and 3 to this Regulation. 
 12. NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF TECHN ICAL SERVICES RESPONSIBLE 
FOR APPROVAL TESTS, AND OF ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENTS 
 
 The Parties to the 1958 Agreement applyi ng this Regulation shall communicate to 
the United Nations secretariat the names a nd addresses of the technical services 
responsible for conducting approval tests and of the administrative departments 
which grant approval and to which form s certifying approval or extension, or 
refusal or withdrawal of approval, issued in other countries, are to be sent. 
   
L 373/290 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 Annex 1  
 
COMMUNICATION  
 
(maximum format:  A4 (210 x 297 mm))  
  
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/291 
 E_(1) 
 
 
 issued by: Name of administration: 
 ....................................  ....................................  ....................................  
concerning:(
2) APPROVAL GRANTED 
 APPROVAL EXTENDED  APPROVAL REFUSED 
 APPROVAL WITHDRAWN 
 PRODUCTION DEFINI TELY DISCONTINUED 
 of a type of airbag module for a replacemen t airbag system pursuant to Regulation No. 114 
 Approval No. ....................... Extension No. .......................  1. Replacement airbag module of categories A, B, C, D:………………………………………  2. Trade name or mark:………………………………………………………………………… 
 3. Description of the type of airbag module for a replacement airbag system given by the 
manufactur er:………… ……………………………… …………………………………….. 
 …………………………………………………………………………… …………………. 
 4. Manufacturer's name:……………………………………………………………………….  5. If applicable, name and address of  manufacturer's repr esentative:…………………………. 
 …………………………………………………………………………… …………………. 
 6. Airbag module for a replacement airbag system submitted for approval on:……………….  7. Technical service responsible for conducting approval tests:………………………………. 
 8. Date of test report i ssued by this service:…………………………………………………… 
 9. Number of test report i ssued by this service:……………………………………………….. 
 10. Approval granted/refused/extended/withdrawn for general use/for use in a specific vehicle or 
in specific types of vehicles (2) 
 11. Position of the a pproval mark ……………………………………………………………….. 
 12. Place ……………………………………………  13. Date:…………………………………………….  14. Signature: ……………………………………….  
__________ 
1  Distinguishing number of the country which has gr anted/extended/refused/withdrawn approval (see approval 
provisions in the Regulation). 
2  Strike out what does not apply. 
L 373/292 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 15. The list of documents deposited with the admini strative service, whic h has granted approval 
is Annexed to this communicati on and may be obtained on request. 
  
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/293 
 Annex 2  
 
COMMUNICATION  
 
(maximum format:  A4 (210 x 297 mm))  
  
L 373/294 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 E_(1) 
 
 
 issued by: Name of administration: 
 ....................................  ....................................  ....................................  
concerning:(
2) APPROVAL GRANTED 
 APPROVAL EXTENDED  APPROVAL REFUSED 
 APPROVAL WITHDRAWN 
 PRODUCTION DEFINI TELY DISCONTINUED 
 of a type of replacement steering wheel equippe d with an airbag module of an approved type 
pursuant to Regulation No. 114  Approval No. ....................... Extension No. .......................  1. Trade name or mark of the replacement steering wheel:……………………………………..  2. Manufacturer's name  and address:…………………………………………………………… 
 3. If applicable, name and address of  manufacturer's representative:…………………………… 
 …………………………………………………………………………… …………………. 
 4. Trade name and mark of the type of  the airbag module and approval No.:………………… 
 …………………………………………………………………………… …………………. 
 5. Extension of approval of the type  of replacement steering wheel:…………………………. 
 6. List of vehicles, where the replacement steer ing wheel can be installed (name of vehicle 
manufacturer/commercial name/vehicle code/replacement steering wheel type/adapter type and numb er):………………………………………………… ……………………………… 
 …………………………………………………………………………… …………………. 
 7. Technical service responsible for conducting approval tests:………………………………. 
 8. Date of test report i ssued by this service:…………………………………………………… 
 9. Number of test report i ssued by this service:……………………………………………….. 
 10. Approval granted/refused/extended/withdrawn for general use/for use in a specific vehicle or 
in specific types of vehicles (
2) 
 11. If applicable, reasons for extension of approval:……………………………………………  …………………………………………………………………………… …………………. 
 12. Position of the a pproval mark ……………………………………………………………….. 
 
__________ 
1  Distinguishing number of the country which has gr anted/extended/refused/withdrawn approval (see approval 
provisions in the Regulation). 
2  Strike out what does not apply. 
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/295 
 13. Place …………………………………………… 
 14. Date:…………………………………………….  15. Signature: ……………………………………….  16. The list of documents deposited with the admini strative service, whic h has granted approval 
is Annexed to this communicati on and may be obtained on request. 
 
 
L 373/296 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 Annex 3  
 
COMMUNICATION  
 
(maximum format:  A4 (210 x 297 mm))  
  
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/297 
 E_(1) 
 
 
 issued by: Name of administration: 
 ....................................  ....................................  ....................................  
concerning:(
2) APPROVAL GRANTED 
 APPROVAL EXTENDED  APPROVAL REFUSED 
 APPROVAL WITHDRAWN 
 PRODUCTION DEFINI TELY DISCONTINUED 
 of a type of replacement airbag system other than that installed in a replacement steering wheel 
pursuant to Regulation No. 114  Approval No. ....................... Extension No. .......................  1. Trade name or mark of the replacement airbag system:………….………………………… 
 2. Category of the airbag system and approval No. of the airbag module: …………………… 
 ………………………………………………………………………………………………  3. Manufacturer's name  and address:…………………………………………………………… 
 4. If applicable, name and address of  manufacturer's representative:…………………………… 
 …………………………………………………………………………… …………………. 
 5. Replacement airbag system and vehicles submitted for approval on:………………………  6. Extension of approval of the type  of replacement steering wheel:…………………………. 
 7. List of vehicles, where the replacemen t airbag system can be installed:……………...…… 
 ………………………………………………………………………………………………  8. Technical service responsible for conducting approval tests:………………………………. 
 9. Date of test report i ssued by this service:…………………………………………………… 
 10. Number of test report i ssued by this service:……………………………………………….. 
 11. Approval granted/refused/extended/withdrawn for general use/for use in a specific vehicle or 
in specific types of vehicles (
2) 
 12. If applicable, reasons for extension of approval:……………………………………………  …………………………………………………………………………… …………………. 
 13. Position of the a pproval mark ……………………………………………………………….. 
 
__________ 
1  Distinguishing number of the country which has gr anted/extended/refused/withdrawn approval (see approval 
provisions in the Regulation). 
2  Strike out what does not apply. 
L 373/298 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 14. Place …………………………………………… 
 15. Date:…………………………………………….  16. Signature: ……………………………………….  17. The list of documents deposited with the admini strative service, whic h has granted approval 
is Annexed to this communicati on and may be obtained on request. 
 
   
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/299 
 Annex 4  
 
EXAMPLE OF AN APPROVAL MARK FOR AN AIRBAG MODULE FOR A 
REPLACEMENT AIRBAG SYSTEM  
   
 
 
a = 5 mm min. 
  The airbag module bearing the a bove approval mark is a categor y A airbag module approved in 
France (E2) under the number 002439. The first two di gits of the approval number indicate that 
the approval was granted in accordance with the requirements of the Regulation in its original 
form.  Note:
 
 The approval number and additional symbol(s) must  be placed close to th e circle and either 
above or below the "E" or to the left or right of that letter. 
 The digits of the approval number must be on the same side of the "E" and oriented in the same 
direction.  The additional symbol(s) must be di ametrically opposite the approval number.  The 
use of Roman numerals as approval numbers shoul d be avoided so as to prevent any confusion 
with the other symbols.  
L 373/300 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 
114 R - 002439Annex 5  
 
EXAMPLE OF AN APPROVAL MARK FOR A REPLACEMEN T STEERING WHEEL 
EQUIPPED WITH AN AIRBAG M ODULE OF AN APPROVED TYPE 
 
   
 
          
a = 5 mm min. 
 The replacement steering wheel bearing the abov e approval mark is a st eering wheel with an 
airbag module of category A and approved in France (E2) under the number 002439.  The first 
two digits of the approval number indicate that  the approval was granted in accordance with the 
requirements of the Regulation in its original form.  Note:
 
 The approval number and additional symbol(s) must  be placed close to th e circle and either 
above or below the "E" or to the left or right of that letter. 
 The digits of the approval number must be on the same side of the "E" and oriented in the same 
direction.  The additional symbol(s) must be di ametrically opposite the approval number.  The 
use of Roman numerals as approval numbers shoul d be avoided so as to prevent any confusion 
with the other symbols.   
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/301 
 Annex 6  
 
EXAMPLE OF AN APPROVAL MARK FOR A REPLACEMEN T AIRBAG SYSTEM 
OTHER THAN THAT INSTAL LED IN A STEERING WHEEL 
  
 
 
a = 8mm min. 
 The replacement airbag system bearing the above  approval mark is a category B airbag system 
approved in France (E2) under the number 002439.  Th e first two digits of  the approval number 
indicate that the approval was granted in accord ance with the requirements of the Regulation in 
its original form.  Note:
 
 The approval number and additional symbol(s) must  be placed close to th e circle and either 
above or below the "E" or to the left or right of that letter. 
 The digits of the approval number must be on the same side of the "E" and oriented in the same 
direction.  The additional symbol(s) must be di ametrically opposite the approval number.  The 
use of Roman numerals as approval numbers shoul d be avoided so as to prevent any confusion 
with the other symbols.    
L 373/302 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 Annex 7  
 
FATIGUE TEST DEVICE 
 
 
 
Example of a fatigue test device 
  
 Force Actuator 
2 point fixation directly to the 
frame of the rim 
Test object 
Load cell 
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/303 
 Annex 8  
 
PROCEDURE FOR DETERMINING TH E "H" POINT AND THE ACTUAL 
TORSO ANGLE FOR SEATING POSI TIONS IN MOTOR VEHICLES 
 1. PURPOSE   The procedure described in this Annex is  used to establish the "H" point location 
and the actual torso angle for one or se veral seating positions in a motor vehicle 
and to verify the relationship of measur ed data to design sp ecifications given by 
the vehicle manufacturer(
1) 
 2. DEFINITIONS   For the purposes of this Annex:  2.1. "Reference data
" means one or several of the foll owing characteristics of a seating 
position: 
 2.1.1. the "H" point and the "R" point and their relationship, 
 2.1.2. the actual torso angle and the design torso angl e and their relationship. 
 2.2. "Three-dimensional 'H' point machine
" (3-D H machine) means the device used 
for the determination of "H " points and actual torso a ngles.  This device is 
described in Appendix 1 to this Annex; 
 2.3. "'H' point
" means the pivot centre of the torso and the thigh of the 3-D H machine 
installed in the vehicle seat in accordance with paragraph 4 below.  The "H" point 
is located in the centre of the centrelin e of the device which is between the "H" 
point sight buttons on either side of  the 3-D H machine.  The "H" point 
corresponds theoretical ly to the "R" point (for to lerances see paragraph 3.2.2. 
below).  Once determined in accordan ce with the procedure described in 
paragraph 4, the "H" point is considered  fixed in relation to the seat-cushion 
structure and to move with it when the seat is adjusted; 
 2.4. "'R' point
" or "seating reference point " means a design point defined by the 
vehicle manufacturer for each seating positio n and established with respect to the 
three-dimensional reference system; 
 2.5. "Torso-line
" means the centreline of the probe  of the 3-D H machine with the 
probe in the fully rearward position; 
 2.6. "Actual torso angle
" means the angle measured be tween a vertical line through 
the "H" point and the torso line usin g the back angle quadrant on the 3-D 
__________ 
1  In any seating position other than front seats where the "H" point cannot be determined using the "Three-
dimensional 'H' point machine" or procedures, the "R" point indicated by the manufacturer may be taken as a 
reference at the discretion of  the competent authority. 
L 373/304 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 H machine.  The actual torso angle corres ponds theoretically to the design torso 
angle (for tolerances se e paragraph 3.2.2. below); 
 2.7. "Design torso angle
" means the angle measured be tween a vertical line through 
the "R" point and the torso line in a po sition which corresponds to the design 
position of the seat-back establis hed by the vehicle manufacturer; 
 2.8. "Centreplane of occupant
" (C/LO) means the median plane of the 3-D H machine 
positioned in each designated seating position; it is represented by the coordinate of the "H" point on the "Y" axis.  For indi vidual seats, the centreplane of the seat 
coincides with the centreplane of the occupa nt.  For other seats, the centreplane of 
the occupant is specif ied by the manufacturer; 
 2.9. "Three-dimensional reference system
" means a system as described in 
Appendix 2 to this Annex; 
 2.10. "Fiducial marks
" are physical points (holes, surfaces, marks or indentations) on 
the vehicle body as defined by the manufacturer; 
 2.11. "Vehicle measuring attitude
" means the position of the vehicle as defined by the 
coordinates of fiducial marks in the three-dimensional reference system. 
 3. REQUIREMENTS  3.1. Data presentation   For each seating position where reference data are required in order to 
demonstrate compliance with the provisions  of the present Re gulation, all or an 
appropriate selection of the following data shall be presented in the form indicated in Appendix 3 to this Annex: 
 3.1.1. the coordinates of the "R" point relati ve to the three-dimensional reference 
system; 
 3.1.2. the design torso angle;  3.1.3. all indications necessary to adjust the s eat (if it is adjustable) to the measuring 
position set out in paragraph 4.3. below. 
 3.2. Relationship between measured data and design specifications 
 3.2.1. The coordinates of the "H" point and th e value of the actual torso angle obtained 
by the procedure set out in paragraph 4. below shall be compared, respectively, 
with the coordinates of the "R" point and the value of the design torso angle 
indicated by the ve hicle manufacturer. 
 3.2.2. The relative positions of the "R" point and the "H" point and the relationship 
between the design torso a ngle and the actual torso angle shall be considered 
satisfactory for the seating position in ques tion if the "H" point, as defined by its 
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/305 
 coordinates, lies within a square of 50 mm side length with horizontal and vertical 
sides whose diagonals intersect at the "R" point, and if the actual torso angle is 
within 5 ° of the design torso angle. 
 3.2.3. If these conditions are met, the "R" point and the design torso angle, shall be used 
to demonstrate compliance with th e provisions of this Regulation. 
 3.2.4. If the "H" point or the actual torso angle does not satisfy the requirements of 
paragraph 3.2.2. above, the "H" point a nd the actual tors o angle shall be 
determined twice more (three times in all).  If the results of two of these three operations satisfy the requirements, the conditions of paragraph 3.2.3. above shall 
apply. 
 3.2.5. If the results of at leas t two of the three operations described in paragraph 3.2.4. 
above do not satisfy the requirements of paragraph 3.2.2. above, or if the 
verification cannot take place because th e vehicle manufacturer has failed to 
supply information regarding the position of  the "R" point or regarding the design 
torso angle, the centroid of the three meas ured points or the average of the three 
measured angles shall be used and be rega rded as applicable in all cases where the 
"R" point or the design torso angle is referred to in this Regulation. 
 4. PROCEDURE FOR "H" POIN T AND ACTUAL TORSO ANGLE 
DETERMINATION 
 4.1. The vehicle shall be preconditioned at  the manufacturer's discretion, at a 
temperature of 20 ± 10 °C to ensure that the seat  material reached room 
temperature.  If the seat to be check ed has never been sat upon, a 70 to 80 kg 
person or device shall sit on the seat twi ce for one minute to fl ex the cushion and 
back.  At the manufacturer's request, all seat assemblies shall remain unloaded for 
a minimum period of 30 min. prior to installation of the 3-D H machine. 
 4.2. The vehicle shall be at the measuring attitude defined in paragraph 2.11. above. 
 4.3. The seat, if it is adjustable, shall be ad justed first to the rearmost normal driving 
or riding position, as indicated by the vehicle manufacturer, taking into 
consideration only the longitudinal adjustment of th e seat, excluding seat travel 
used for purposes other than normal driv ing or riding positions.  Where other 
modes of seat adjustment exist (vertical, angular, seat-back, etc.) these will then 
be adjusted to the position specified by  the vehicle manufacturer.  For suspension 
seats, the vertical position shall be rigidly fixed corresponding to a normal driving 
position as specified by the manufacturer. 
 4.4. The area of the seating position contacted  by the 3-D H machine shall be covered 
by a muslin cotton, of sufficient size and a ppropriate texture, de scribed as a plain 
cotton fabric having 18.9 thread s per cm and weighing 0.228 kg/m
2 or knitted or 
non-woven fabric having equivale nt characteristics.  If te st is run on a seat outside 
the vehicle, the floor on which the seat is placed shall have the same essential 
L 373/306 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 characteristics(2) as the floor of the vehicle in wh ich the seat is intended to be 
used. 
 4.5. Place the seat and back assembly of the 3-D H machine so that the centreplane of 
the occupant (C/LO) coincides with the cen treplane of the 3-D H machine.  At the 
manufacturer's request, the 3-D H machine may be moved inboard with respect to 
the C/LO if the 3-D H machine is located so far outboard that the seat edge will 
not permit levelling of the 3-D H machine. 
 4.6. Attach the foot and lower leg assemb lies to the seat pa n assembly, either 
individually or by using the T-bar and lower leg assembly.  A line through the 
"H" point sight buttons shall be parallel  to the ground and perpendicular to the 
longitudinal centreplane of the seat. 
 4.7. Adjust the feet and leg positions of the 3-D H machine as follows:  4.7.1. Designated seating position:  driv er and outside front passenger 
 4.7.1.1. Both feet and leg assemblies shall be m oved forward in such a way that the feet 
take up natural positions on the floor, between the operati ng pedals if necessary.  
Where possible the left foot shall be lo cated approximately the same distance to 
the left of the centreplane of the 3-D H m achine as the right foot is to the right.  
The spirit level verifying the transverse  orientation of the 3-D H machine is 
brought to the horizontal by readjustment of the seat pan if  necessary, or by 
adjusting the leg and foot assemblies towa rds the rear.  The line passing through 
the "H" point sight buttons shall be main tained perpendicular to the longitudinal 
centreplane of the seat. 
 4.7.1.2. If the left leg cannot be kept parallel to  the right leg and the left foot cannot be 
supported by the structure, move the left foot until it is supported.  The alignment 
of the sight buttons shall be maintained. 
 4.7.2. Designated seating pos ition:  outboard rear 
  For rear seats or auxiliary seats, th e legs are located as specified by the 
manufacturer.  If the feet then rest on parts of the floor which are at different 
levels, the foot which first comes into cont act with the front seat shall serve as a 
reference and the other foot shall be so arranged that the spirit level giving the 
transverse orientation of the seat of  the device indicates the horizontal. 
 4.8. Apply lower leg and thigh weight s and level the 3-D H machine. 
 4.9. Tilt the back pan forward against the fo rward stop and draw the 3-D H machine 
away from the seat-back using the T-bar.  Reposition the 3-D H machine on the seat by one of the following methods: 
 
__________ 
2  Tilt angle, height difference with a seat mounting, surface texture etc. 
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/307 
 4.9.1. If the 3-D H machine tends to slide rear ward, use the following procedure.  Allow 
the 3-D H machine to slide rearward until a forward horizontal restraining load on 
the T-bar is no longer require d i.e. until the seat pan c ontacts the seat-back.  If 
necessary, reposition the lower leg. 
 4.9.2. If the 3-D H machine does not tend to slide rearward, use the following 
procedure.  Slide the 3-D H machine re arwards by applying a horizontal rearward 
load to the T-bar until the seat pan c ontacts the seat-back (see figure 2 of 
Appendix 1 to this Annex). 
 4.10. Apply a 100 ± 10 N load to the back and pan assembly of the 3-D H machine at 
the intersection of the hip angle quadrant and the T-bar housing.  The direction of 
load application shall be maintained along a line passi ng by the above intersection 
to a point just above the thigh bar housing (see figur e 2 of Appendix 1 to this 
Annex).  Then carefully return the back  pan to the seat-back.  Care must be 
exercised throughout the remainder of the procedure to prevent the 3-D 
H machine from sliding forward. 
 4.11. Install the right and left buttock wei ghts and then, alternat ely, the eight torso 
weights.  Maintain the 3-D H machine level. 
 4.12. Tilt the back pan forward to release th e tension on the seat-back. Rock the 3-D 
H machine from side to side through a 10 ° arc (5 ° to each side of the vertical 
centreplane) for three complete cycles  to release any accumulated friction 
between the 3-D H machine and the seat. 
  During the rocking action, the T-bar of the 3-D H machine may tend to diverge 
from the specified horizontal and vertical alignment.  The T-bar must therefore be 
restrained by applying an appropriate la teral load during the rocking motions.  
Care shall be exercised in holding the T-bar and rocking the 3-D H machine to 
ensure that no inadvertent exterior loads are applied in a vertical or fore and aft 
direction. 
  The feet of the 3-D H machine are not to be  restrained or held during this step.  If 
the feet change position, they  should be allowed to remain in that attitude for the 
moment. 
  Carefully return the back pan to the s eat-back and check the two spirit levels for 
zero position.  If any move ment of the feet has o ccurred during the rocking 
operation of the 3-D H machine, they must be repositioned as follows: 
  Alternately, lift each foot off the floor the minimum necessary amount until no 
additional foot movement is obtained.  Duri ng this lifting, the feet are to be free to 
rotate; and no forward or lateral loads are to be applied.  When each foot is placed 
back in the down position, the heel is to be  in contact with the structure designed 
for this. 
 
L 373/308 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
  Check the lateral spirit level for zero positio n; if necessary, apply a lateral load to 
the top of the back pan sufficient to le vel the 3-D H machine's seat pan on the 
seat. 
 4.13. Holding the T-bar to prevent the 3-D H machine from sliding forward on the seat 
cushion, proceed as follows: 
  (a) return the back pan to the seat-back;   (b) alternately apply and release a ho rizontal rearward load, not to exceed 
25 N, to the back angle bar at a height  approximately at the centre of the 
torso weights until the hip angle quadran t indicates that a stable position 
has been reached after load release.  Ca re shall be exercised to ensure that 
no exterior downward or lateral loads ar e applied to the 3-D H machine.  If 
another level adjustment of the 3-D H machine is necessary, rotate the back 
pan forward, re-level, and repeat the procedure from paragraph 4.12. 
 4.14. Take all measurements:  4.14.1. The coordinates of the "H" point are measured with respect to the three-
dimensional reference system. 
 4.14.2. The actual torso angle is read at the b ack angle quadrant of the 3-D H machine 
with the probe in its fully rearward position. 
 4.15. If a re-run of the installation of the 3-D H machine is desired, the seat assembly 
should remain unloaded for a minimum peri od of 30 min. prior to the re-run.  The 
3-D H machine should not be left loaded  on the seat assembly longer than the 
time required to perform the test. 
 4.16. If the seats in the same row can be regard ed as similar (bench seat, identical seats, 
etc.) only one "H" point and one "actual torso angle" sha ll be determined for each 
row of seats, the 3-D H machine descri bed in Appendix 1 to this Annex being 
seated in a place regarded as representati ve for the row.  This place shall be: 
 4.16.1. in the case of the front row, the driver's seat;  4.16.2. in the case of the rear row or rows, an outer seat. 
   
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/309 
 Annex 8 - Appendix 1  
 
DESCRIPTION OF THE THREE DI MENSIONAL "H" POINT MACHINE(*) 
 
(3-D H machine) 
 1. Back and seat pans   The back and seat pans are constructe d of reinforced plastic and metal; they 
simulate the human torso and thigh and ar e mechanically hinged at the "H" point. 
 A quadrant is fastened to the probe hinged at the "H" point to measure the actual 
torso angle.  An adjustable thigh bar, atta ched to the seat pan, establishes the thigh 
centreline and serves as a baseline for the hip angle quadrant. 
 2. Body and leg elements   Lower leg segments are connected to the seat pan assembly at the T-bar joining 
the knees, which is a lateral extension of the adjustable thigh bar.  Quadrants are incorporated in the lower leg segments to measure knee angles.  Shoe and foot 
assemblies are calibrated to measure the foot  angle.  Two spirit levels orient the 
device in space.  Body element weights ar e placed at the corresponding centres of 
gravity to provide seat pene tration equivalent to a 76 kg male.  All joints of the 3-
D H machine should be checked for free movement without encountering 
noticeable friction. 
  
__________ 
*  For details of the construction of the 3-D H machin e refer to Society of Automobile Engineers (SAE), 400 
Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, Pennsylvania 15096, United States of America. 
The machine corresponds to that described in ISO Standard 6549-1980. 
L 373/310 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
  
 
Figure 1:  3-D H machine elements designation 
  Head room Probe  
Back Pan 
Back Angle 
Quadrant
H-Point sight 
button 
H-Point pivot
Lateral level 
Thigh bar 
Knee An gle quadrant 
Foot Angle quadrant Torso Weight hanger 
Back an gle level
Hip Angle quadrant 
Sear Pan 
Thigh wei ght pad 
T-bar joining  
The knees 
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/311 
  
 
Figure 2:  Dimensions of the 3-D H machine elements and load distribution  Torso wei ght
Buttock wei ght
Thigh weight 
Leg weight Direction and point of 
application of load 
L 373/312 EN Official Journal of the European Union 27.12.2006 
 Annex 8 - Appendix 2  
 
THREE-DIMENSIONAL REFERENCE SYSTEM 
 1. The three-dimensional reference system  is defined by three orthogonal planes 
established by the vehicle manufacturer (see figure).(
*) 
 2. The vehicle measuring attitude is es tablished by positioning the vehicle on the 
supporting surface such that the coordinate s of the fiducial marks correspond to 
the values indicated by the manufacturer. 
 3. The coordinates of the "R" point and the "H" point are established in relation to 
the fiducial marks defined by the vehicle manufacturer. 
  
Figure - Three-dimensional reference system 
 
 
__________ 
*  The reference system corresponds to ISO standard 4130, 1978. Zero Y plane (vertical 
longitudinal zero plane 
Zero X plane (vertical transverse zero plane 
Zero Z plane  
(horizontal zero plane 
Supporting Surface 
27.12.2006 EN Official Journal of the European Union L 373/313 
 Annex 8 - Appendix 3  
 
REFERENCE DATA CONCERNING SEATING POSITIONS 
 1. Coding of reference data   Reference data are listed consecutively for each seating position.  Seating 
positions are identified by a two-digit code.  The first digit is an Arabic numeral and designates the row of seats, counting from  the front to the rear of the vehicle. 
 The second digit is a cap ital letter which designates th e location of the seating 
position in a row, as viewed in the direc tion of forward motion of the vehicle; the 
following letters shall be used: 
  L = left   C = centre   R = right  2. Description of vehicl e measuring attitude: 
 2.1. Coordinates of fiducial marks   X ..........................   Y ..........................   Z ..........................  3. List of reference data:   3.1. Seating position:  ....................   3.1.1. Coordinates of "R" point   X ..........................   Y ..........................   Z ..........................   3.1.2. Design torso angle: .......................................   3.1.3. Specifications for seat adjustment (
*) 
  horizontal : .................   vertical   : .................   angular    : .................   torso angle: .................   Note
:  List reference data for furthe r seating positions under 3.2., 3.3., etc. 
 
__________ 
*  Strike out what does not apply.