[Federal Register Volume 60, Number 117 (Monday, June 19, 1995)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 31939-31946]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-14847]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
49 CFR Parts 564 and 571
[Docket No. 95-47; Notice 1]
RIN 2127-AF65
Replaceable Light Source Information; Federal Motor Vehicle
Safety Standards Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment
AGENCY: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.
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SUMMARY: This notice proposes to amend the Federal motor vehicle safety
standard on lighting to allow high intensity discharge (HID) light
sources to be used in replaceable bulb headlamp systems, in addition to
their presently-allowed use in integral beam headlamp systems. Adoption
of this amendment would require corresponding amendments to part 564,
the regulation under which Docket No. 93-11 was established as a
depository for replaceable light source information. However, if the
life of the light source approaches that of the vehicle, as is the case
with HIDs, interchangeability will no longer be so important.
Therefore, NHTSA proposes adding regulations which would allow a
manufacturer to submit fewer items of dimensional information if it can
demonstrate that the average rated laboratory life of its light source
is not less than 2,000 hours.
DATES: Comments are due on the proposal by August 18, 1995.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kenneth O. Hardie, Office of
Rulemaking (202-366-6987).
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On April 8, 1994, NHTSA published a notice
in [[Page 31940]] the Federal Register calling attention to four new
technologies that are being or will be used in signal lamps and
headlamps subject to Standard No. 108 (59 FR 16788). These new signal
lamp technologies are light-emitting diodes (LEDs), miniature halogen
bulbs, long arc discharge bulb systems (e.g., neon and other gas filled
tubular lamps), and short arc discharge bulb systems. The notice noted
that it is likely that the latter will be used in headlamps, too.
Twenty-five comments were received in response to the notice. Among
those who commented were Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation
(GM), American Automobile Manufacturers Association (AAMA), Koito
Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Hewlett-Packard, Hella KG Hueck & Co. (Hella),
Volkswagen of America (VWoA), General Electric Company (GE), OSRAM
Sylvania, Inc. (OSRAM), Stanley Electric Co. Ltd. (Stanley), and State
Farm Insurance.
On the basis of the comments received, NHTSA has decided to
initiate rulemaking that would amend Standard No. 108 so as to allow
replaceable bulb headlamps to incorporate short arc discharge light
sources. It is terminating action on the other lighting technologies
for the reasons explained below.
I. Long and Short Arc Discharge Systems
With the thought of developing appropriate amendments to Standard
No. 108 to facilitate the introduction of long and short arc discharge
technology, NHTSA sought comments on the following:
A. Identification of the performance requirements and/or test
procedures specified, or incorporated by reference, in Standard No. 108
that should be modified to accommodate the installation of arc
discharge light sources in lamps required by the standard.
B. Specification of the performance requirements and/or test
procedures that should be added to Standard No. 108 to accommodate the
installation of arc discharge light sources while maintaining the
present level of safety achieved by incandescent filament light
sources.
C. Identification of any special considerations that should be made
to accommodate the concept of a single light source whose light is
distributed to the vehicle's lamps by lamp pipes, and an opinion as to
whether it is premature to consider regulation of this concept.
D. An opinion of when Standard No. 108 should be amended to
accommodate the use of arc light sources in production motor vehicles.
These sources are permitted because Standard No. 108 does not specify
requirements for signal light sources.
NHTSA received no specific recommendations on how to amend Standard
No. 108 to facilitate the use of long arc lighting technology. Some
commenters noted that the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) is
drafting a recommended practice for long arc sources, but estimated
that its completion date is well in the future. OSRAM Sylvania
commented that it has developed a long arc (neon) Center High Mounted
Stop Lamp (CHMSL) that is almost ready for production, and it
recommended that NHTSA amend Standard No. 108 to state clearly that
long arc sources may be tested as a system for compliance with Standard
No.108 (which would allow testing with the ballast).
As currently being developed, long arc technology such as neon may
be used to provide tail, stop, and turn signal lighting. Long and short
arc discharge lamps are similar in some respects. Both require ballasts
to transform the 12.8 volt vehicle electrical supply into an output
format necessary to operate the discharge tube or bulb. Both operate at
voltages substantially higher than the nominal 12.8 volts of a standard
automobile battery. The ballast elevates the voltage output of the
battery to the level required by the lamp.
NHTSA wishes to assure OSRAM that Standard No. 108 already permits
testing of long arc light sources with their ballast. The agency
interprets Paragraph S5.1.1.16 as permitting this. This paragraph
states:
S5.1.1.16 A lamp designed to use a type of bulb that has not
been assigned a mean spherical candlepower rating by its
manufacturer and is not listed in SAE Standard J573d, Lamp Bulbs and
Sealed Units, December 1968, shall meet the applicable requirements
of this standard when used with any bulb of the type specified by
the lamp manufacturer, operated at the bulb's design voltage. A lamp
that contains a sealed-in bulb shall meet these requirements with
the bulb operated at the bulb's design voltage.
While this does not specifically mention long arc light sources
with ballasts, the second sentence does address the use of lamps with
bulbs that are ``sealed-in'' and those in which they are not. If a long
arc lamp is manufactured with the light source and the ballast as a
sealed unit (sealed within the lamp), then it would be tested for
compliance by application of the design voltage at the lamp leads.
The first sentence of S5.1.1.16 addresses the situation where the
ballast is separate from the lamp (not sealed within it) and externally
connected to it. A long arc light source is considered a ``bulb'' and
would be tested at its manufacturer's specified design voltage.
The allowance of long arc technology for signal lamps may raise
issues relating to intensity, headlamp/daytime running lamp spacing,
and aspect ratio because this technology may result in unique and
creative lamp shapes and design variations that influence the efficacy
of signal lamps. For example, Standard No. 108 does not specify an
aspect ratio for stop lamps. As an example, although a CHMSL must have
an effective projected luminous lens area of not less than 4\1/2\
square inches, the requirement can be met by both a rectangular lens of
2 inches by 2\1/2\ inches and one of 10 inches by .45 inch because
Standard No. 108 contains no limitations on signal lamp length or
height.
Because the efficacy of long arc technology for signal lamps is
still being researched, NHTSA will propose no changes at this time, and
will seek further information on the issues of lamp spacing, effective
luminous lens area, aspect ratio between lamps, appropriate photometric
requirements, and interchangeability. It may also be necessary to
obtain information from manufacturers regarding the operating voltage
of an arc lamp source as used on a motor vehicle. This would be for the
purpose of providing a source voltage equivalent to the design voltage
that is required for compliance testing purposes if NHTSA decided to
perform testing without the system's original ballast.
Short arc discharge headlamp systems are commonly referred to as
``high intensity discharge'' (HID) systems. Presently, the only HID
application in production for lamps covered by Standard No. 108 is in
headlamps, and the only way HID headlamps can be used under the
standard is in an ``integral beam headlighting system'' (Section S7.4).
Thus, today, HID headlamps are comprised of a headlamp body (including
reflector and lens), a small transparent envelope containing a specific
mixture of gases under high pressure (the discharge bulb), and an
electronic ballast to convert low voltage direct current to a
controlled output high voltage direct or alternating current to drive
the discharge bulb.
However, by definition (S4), an integral beam headlamp (including
those with HID light sources) is one with an ``integral and indivisible
optical assembly'', and a headlamp that is ``not a replaceable bulb
headlamp * * *.'' In the event of damage to one component, such as the
lens, the entire unit, ballast [[Page 31941]] and all, must be
replaced. The cost to replace an integral beam HID headlamp is going to
be substantially higher than the cost of replacing a more conventional
headlamp. Ford, Stanley, AAMA, GM, and State Farm suggested that NHTSA
could facilitate the introduction and acceptance of HID headlamp
technology by redefining them as ``replaceable bulb headlamps'' so that
components could be individually replaced.
NHTSA concurs with these comments. There is no safety reason why
HIDs can't be used as replaceable bulb headlamps. Manufacturers chose
an integral-type design for the initial HID headlamps as a result of
NHTSA-initiated amendments to accommodate them and facilitate their
introduction. At that time, around 1992, the most expeditious manner
was through the modification of the definition for integral beam
headlamps, and the addition of combination headlighting systems. NHTSA
did not know how to define HID sources as ``replaceable light
sources.''
GE espoused a contrary position. It finds the relationship between
the ballast device for an HID headlamp and the arc source itself to be
complex and intricate. As more requirements (e.g., instant start, long
life, color control) are placed on the system, the complexity of the
ballast, electronics, and light projection system increase by an order
of magnitude. Given the present state of arc source technology, GE
commented that the industry must further define performance and other
enhancements for a ``short arc'' headlamp and ballast before rulemaking
for a non-integral system is initiated. Without a firm industry
agreement on basic system requirements, GE concludes that specification
of the individual parts and their respective allowable contribution to
system requirements is impossible.
However, contrary to GE's argument, Ford presented a regulatory
scheme with specific suggested amendments to both Standard No. 108 and
the replaceable bulb information regulation, part 564, the effect of
which would be to allow use of HIDs as replaceable headlamp light
sources in a manner which accommodates GE's concern. NHTSA has reviewed
this in great detail, and tentatively concludes that it, for the most
part, sets forth a realistic way in which to treat HIDs as replaceable
light headlamp light sources. Therefore, the following discussion is
based upon Ford's specific suggestions, the European regulatory
practice for HID headlamp sight sources, and NHTSA's responses.
Proposed Amendments to Standard No. 108
S4 Definitions. A ``replaceable light source'' is defined as ``an
assembly consisting of a capsule, base, and terminals that is designed
to conform to the requirements of paragraph S7.7'' of Standard No. 108.
Ford would amend the definition to include the phrase ``separable
ballast, if required.'' Because HID headlamps, unlike conventional
replaceable bulb units, are operable through ballasts, Ford believes
that such an amendment would clearly indicate that HIDs come under the
definition of ``replaceable light source.'' However, where the ballast
is separable and physically located away from the headlamp housing, it
would not be part of an ``assembly'' of ``capsule, base, and
terminals,'' as the term ``assembly'' is understood. NHTSA has
tentatively concluded that there is a better approach, comprised of two
parts. The first is to retain the existing definition and propose
amendments of paragraph S7.7 pertinent to HID light sources, thus tying
it in with the definition of ``replaceable light source'', as quoted
above. The second is to propose an amendment of part 564 which would
allow the submittal of ballast information to Docket No. 93-11. Section
IX of Part 564 appears an appropriate place for the listing of other
dimensions or performance specifications necessary for light sources
and ballast interchangeability purposes that are not listed in other
places within appendix A. For this reason also, an HID assembly would
be a ``replaceable light source.''
S5.5.8 This paragraph specifies, in part, that in an integral beam
headlighting system meeting integral beam headlighting photometrics,
the lower beam headlamps shall be wired to remain permanently activated
when the upper beam headlamps are activated. Ford would add lower beam
headlamps ``incorporating non-filament light sources'' and meeting
replaceable bulb headlighting photometrics.
NHTSA believes that this approach would unnecessarily discriminate
between filament and non-filament light sources, and that adopting the
definition of ``filament'' shown below would supersede the need to
specify ``non-filament light sources''. This means that an amendment of
S5.5.8 would not be needed as Figure 15 already specifically allows the
lower beam headlamps of four-lamp replaceable light source headlamp
systems to remain activated when the upper beams are operated. Although
Figure 17 is silent on the point, this silence has the effect of not
specifying how the lower or upper beam is generated by the headlamp.
Thus, the lower beams of two-lamp replaceable light source headlamp
systems can remain activated when the upper beams are selected.
The definition that appears appropriate to NHTSA is:
``Filament'' means that part of the light source or light
emitting element(s), such as a resistive element, the excited
portion of a specific mixture of gases under pressure, or any part
of other energy conversion sources, that generates radiant energy
which can be seen.
S7.5(e)(3)(ii). This relates to headlamp systems comprised of four
replaceable bulb headlamps. Ford's recommended revision to this
paragraph would limit how replaceable light source headlamps may
produce the upper beam, as it would require the HID lower beam to
remain on when the upper beam is selected. While this is what proposed
changes to European law may require and indeed may be what most
manufacturers would choose to do, Standard No. 108 presently permits
the lower beam to remain on when the upper beam is used, but does not
require it. The reason that a manufacturer might choose to leave the
lower beam HID source on is that it is technically complex and
expensive to design HIDs that, if extinguished, will quickly re-arc
after being extinguished during beam switching. If the HID had
difficulty reestablishing an arc after switching from the upper beam,
the headlamp would not produce light, a high risk situation, even if
possibly a transient one. Given the liabilities inherent in such an
instance, NHTSA anticipates that manufacturers will provide systems in
which an HID lower beam remains activated during upper beam use.
Because S7.5(e)(3)(ii) allows the manufacturer of a vehicle with
replaceable bulb headlamp systems a choice of whether or not to
extinguish the lower beam while the upper beam is activated, it
provides maximum flexibility for designers of replaceable bulb headlamp
systems, whether or not they incorporate lower beam HIDs. NHTSA
believes that as long as an HID headlamp complies with applicable
photometric requirements, it should be allowed to use present headlamp
configurations without restriction.
New paragraph S7.5(e)(3)(iii). Ford would add a new paragraph
S7.5(e)(3)(iii) relating to four lamp replaceable bulb headlamp systems
to read:
The upper beam of a headlamp system whose lower beam headlamps
are equipped [[Page 31942]] with non-filament type replaceable light
sources shall be produced by all four headlamps, designed to conform
to the upper beam requirements of Figure 15A.
This paragraph would limit how HID light source headlamps could be
used in a system with non-HID replaceable light source types in the
same way as Ford's suggested revisions to S7.5(e)(3)(ii). For this
reason, NHTSA disagrees with this suggestion.
In addition, Ford's suggested paragraph would permit the use of a
headlamp whose performance is not specified by Standard No. 108. This
could occur because Ford would require that the ``upper beam'' be
produced by all four headlamps and that the ``beam'' (not the headlamp)
be designed to conform to the requirements of Figure 15A. Requiring the
``beam'' from all four headlamps to meet the photometric requirements
of Figure 15A is quite different from the current requirement that the
upper beam headlamp system independently meet Figure 15A. Because
Ford's suggestion does not specify the apportionment of photometry
between the headlamps necessary to produce the ``beam'', it would
appear to restrict the replacement market to original equipment
manufacturers, as well as potentially allowing replacement headlamps
with inadequate illumination or disabling glare. Hence, NHTSA is not
proposing Ford's suggested paragraph.
Paragraph S7.7(g). This paragraph requires replaceable light
sources to be designed to conform to the information on file in part
564. Ford would modify the phrase ``replaceable light source'' by
adding after it ``in conjunction with its ballast, if any is specified
in part 564 for its operation.'' NHTSA does not believe that an
amendment is required. The ballast information will be part of the
information on file in part 564 and no specific reference to it is
needed.
Paragraph S7.7(h). This paragraph requires marking of replaceable
light sources in specified ways. Ford would add eight specific
requirements for ballast marking: name or logo of the ballast
manufacturer, the ballast part number or other unique identifier, the
part number or other unique identification of the non-filament type
light source for which the ballast is designed, identification of the
designated Part 564 discharge sources that the ballast is designed to
power, and the rated laboratory life of the ballast/discharge bulb
combination for each bulb so identified, shock hazard warning (see
discussion below), watts and voltage information, the date of
manufacture, and the DOT symbol.
NHTSA agrees with this suggestion, but is proposing a new section
S7.7(l) for ballast alone. With one exception, it is consistent with
the existing requirement for replaceable light sources. That exception
is the identification and documentation of rated laboratory life. With
respect to other replaceable light sources, NHTSA has previously
decided that requiring this information is an unjustifiable and
unnecessary burden. However, the advent of HID technology has caused
NHTSA to rethink this issue as it relates to Ford's suggestion for
reasons to be explained below in the discussion of proposed amendments
to part 564.
Paragraph S7.7(i). This paragraph relates to seasoning of the
filament of a replaceable light source before measurement of maximum
power and luminous flux. Consistent with its earlier recommendations,
Ford would add ``filament type'' before ``replaceable light source.''
Since the seasoning procedures are different for filament type and arc
type light sources, NHTSA agrees that there is a distinction. However,
because of the definition of filament that has been proposed, NHTSA is
proposing to revise S7.7(i) to apply to the seasoning of ``a
replaceable light source'' rather than to ``the filament.'' This would
be followed by two new subparagraphs, S7.7(i)(1), which would apply to
light sources with resistive element type filaments, and S7.7(i)(2),
which would apply to light sources using excited gas mixtures as
filaments. This also accords with recommendations made by Ford. As for
seasoning of light sources using ``other energy conversion sources'',
NHTSA solicits comments on what these sources might be and the
procedure that would be appropriate for their seasoning. Comments
should also address an alternative to S7.7.(i) for ``other energy
conversion sources'' of including seasoning information as an item of
information in appendix B.
The reader should note that, under NHTSA's published proposal to
transfer HB type light sources to part 564 (60 FR 14247, March 16,
1995), paragraph S7.7(i) would become paragraph S7.7(b), with no
substantive change in it. For the same reason, proposed new paragraph
S7.7(l) would be adopted as paragraph S7.7(d).
S8 Tests and Procedures for Integral Beam and Replaceable Bulb
Headlighting Systems. Ford would add ``Ballasts required to operate
non-filament type light sources shall be included in the tests
specified'' in S8. NHTSA concurs but, in its proposal, has substituted
``specific gas mixture'' for ``non-filament type.''
Other Issues Associated with Short Arc Discharge Lighting Systems.
Two other issues associated with HID headlamp light source use are
electrical shock resulting from contact with the high voltages used to
energize the light source, and potential health hazards resulting from
ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Severe electrical shock is a potential hazard because of the high
voltage generated by the HID system ballast. A voltage that is higher
than that which is normally produced by the motor vehicle's standard
battery is necessary to operate an HID system. NHTSA believes that
manufacturers will design appropriate levels of safety into their HID
systems because of competitive market pressures and product liability
concerns. For this reason, the only regulatory requirement that NHTSA
is proposing that addresses this issue is the marking of the ballast
with an appropriate warning.
Because HID light sources produce UV energy, there is the potential
for damage to ocular tissues and skin from radiation in the spectral
region between 200 and 400 nm. Exposure could arise from a defect in
the system or as a result of a crash and damage to it. Exposure could
also occur in the course of headlamp repair. At the present time, it
appears likely that the plastic lenses on HID headlamps will filter UV
energy, that they will be given a protective coating that will minimize
UV emission during normal operation, or that UV filters integral to the
HID light source envelope will be used. Thus, there appears no need to
regulate. However, NHTSA intends to monitor the issue and will propose
rulemaking if it appears required for health and safety.
Proposed Amendments to Part 564
General. Ford would replace all references to ``filament'' with
``filament or discharge arc.'' However, this is unnecessary. If NHTSA
adopts the definition of ``filament'' that has been proposed to be
added to Standard No. 108, it will apply to part 564 under Sec. 564.4
which incorporates definitions used in other regulations.
Section IX of appendix A. Ford would add the word
``Identification'' to the text. NHTSA concurs. If a ballast is required
for operation, Section IX would also require a manufacturer to provide
a complete listing of the requirements and parameters between the light
source and ballast, and ballast and the vehicle.
Proposed appendix B. The purpose of Appendix A of part 564 is to
ensure that aftermarket replaceable light sources are interchangeable
with their original equipment counterparts so that they
[[Page 31943]] may be easily replaced. But the importance of
interchangeability diminishes but is not eliminated if the life of the
light source is such that it approaches the life of the lens reflector
unit in which it is installed. Manufacturers expect this to be for the
life of the vehicle. This is a chief feature of HID light sources.
Thus, NHTSA might be wiling to accept rated average laboratory life
information demonstrating long life as a tradeoff for detailed
interchangeability information such as dimensions relating to the
interface of the light source to the ballast.1
\1\ A manufacturer ``rates'' the design ``life'' of a light
source by ``laboratory'' tests of a large number of units that are
activated under identical and ideal test conditions of temperature,
humidity, lack of vibration, etc. When the test sources have been
run to burn out, the manufacturer takes the total time data and
determines the ``average'' in hours.
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To explain, barring damage, a lens reflector unit ought to last the
life of a motor vehicle because of its certification of conformance to
the environmental test requirements set out in Standard No. 108. The
task, then, is to design a light source with an equivalent life
expectancy. Although industry views 10 years as the average life of a
vehicle, it is not uncommon to see in daily service those that are from
10 to 15 years old. NHTSA believes that non-HID light sources used in
today's headlamps have a rated average laboratory life of 300 to 500
hours. Thus, one with a minimum rated life of 2,000 hours represents a
four-fold to six-fold plus increase in the life of a headlamp light
source. Use of such a light source would significantly reduce the need
to replace headlamp light sources over the life of a vehicle.
This trade off could be accomplished by adding appendix B to part
564, to serve as a repository for information on long-life light
sources. To NHTSA, a long-life light source is one with a rated average
laboratory life of not less than 2,000 hours. This figure represents
the design target that industry uses today in developing long-life
light sources, and has been provided to NHTSA in industry comments on
related rulemakings. The manufacturer of such a light source would
provide the lesser amount of information that would be required by
appendix B, but, at its option, could make its submission under
appendix A. The reader is reminded that, in either event, a replaceable
light source which is the subject of information submitted to Docket
No. 93-11 is required to comply with Standard No. 108.
To conform part 564 to this view, NHTSA would amend Sec. 564.2
Purpose to clarify that the existing purpose applies to appendix A, and
that a new one would apply to appendix B. Language relating to rated
average laboratory life would be added where appropriate to implement
the purpose of appendix B.
The reader should note that the proposed conforming amendments to
Sec. 564.5 (a) and (c) reflect the agency's recent proposal to amend
paragraph S7.7 of Standard No. 108 and Sec. 564.5 (a) and (c) to
transfer HB type replaceable light sources to Docket No. 93-11 (60 FR
14247).
II. LEDs and Miniature Halogen Bulbs
The reader is referred to the NPRM for a full discussion of the
issues raised by NHTSA. Because the agency has decided to terminate
rulemaking on light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and miniature halogen bulbs
for the reasons discussed below, it is also deferring any extended
published analysis of the comments received on these issues until such
time as it may decide to reinitiate rulemaking on this topic.
NHTSA asked for recommendations as to how it might specify a means
of determining the number of ``equivalent'' compartments for lamps
equipped with LEDs. AAMA, Ford, and GM thought it premature for the
agency to specify unique requirements for lamps equipped with
distributive light sources until studies can be completed to assess
concerns regarding possible perceptions with respect to brightness.
These studies, in AAMA's estimate, would take six months to a year.
During that time, its member companies could gather data on intensity,
brightness and dimensional features (e.g., aspect ratio) of signal and
marking lamps of recent model vehicles. Similar comments came from Ford
and GM. Other commenters did not reach a consensus on whether SAE J1889
would be an appropriate specification for LEDs.
Based upon these comments, NHTSA has concluded that there is a
great amount of uncertainty within the lighting community about the
best method of regulating the photometric requirements of non-
traditional light sources for signal and marking lamps. In view of
these uncertainties and a lack of consensus among the commenters on
methods of equivalent compartmentalization, NHTSA has decided not to
pursue further rulemaking at this time. For this reason, it is
appropriate also not to pursue the issue of test methods for LEDs and
miniature type light sources. However, the docket will remain open to
accept comments about these issues, and NHTSA may reinitiate rulemaking
at a time when a more definite outcome appears feasible.
Request for Comments
Interested persons are invited to submit comments on the proposal.
It is requested but not required that 10 copies be submitted.
All comments must not exceed 15 pages in length. (49 CFR 553.21).
Necessary attachments may be appended to these submissions without
regard to the 15-page limit. This limitation is intended to encourage
commenters to detail their primary arguments in a concise fashion.
If a commenter wishes to submit certain information under a claim
of confidentiality, three copies of the complete submission, including
purportedly confidential business information, should be submitted to
the Chief Counsel, NHTSA, at the street address given above, and seven
copies from which the purportedly confidential information has been
deleted should be submitted to the Docket Section. A request for
confidentiality should be accompanied by a cover letter setting forth
the information specified in the agency's confidential business
information regulation. 49 CFR Part 512.
All comments received before the close of business on the comment
closing date indicated above for the proposal will be considered, and
will be available for examination in the docket at the above address
both before and after that date. To the extent possible, comments filed
after the closing date will also be considered. Comments received too
late for consideration in regard to the final rule will be considered
as suggestions for further rulemaking action. Comments on the proposal
will be available for inspection in the docket. The NHTSA will continue
to file relevant information as it becomes available in the docket
after the closing date, and it is recommended that interested persons
continue to examine the docket for new material.
Those persons desiring to be notified upon receipt of their
comments in the rules docket should enclose a self-addressed, stamped
postcard in the envelope with their comments. Upon receiving the
comments, the docket supervisor will return the postcard by mail.
Effective Date
Since the final rule would not impose any additional burden and is
intended to afford an alternative to existing requirements, it is
hereby tentatively found that an effective date earlier than 180 days
after issuance of the final rule is in the public interest. The final
rule [[Page 31944]] would be effective 30 days after its publication in
the Federal Register.
Rulemaking Analyses
Executive Order 12866 and DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
This rulemaking action has not been reviewed under Executive Order
12866. It has been determined that the rulemaking action is not
significant under Department of Transportation regulatory policies and
procedures. The effect of the rulemaking action would be to allow an
alternative headlighting system. It would not impose any additional
burden upon any person. A final rule based on such an action would
reduce costs both to manufacturers and consumers. Because ballasts
would no longer have to be integral with the light source,
manufacturers could use a simpler, less expensive connector. Consumers
could replace separate elements of an HID-replaceable light source
headlamp system as compared with the present regulation which requires
replacement of the whole unit. Impacts of the rule are, therefore, so
minimal as not to warrant preparation of a full regulatory evaluation.
Regulatory Flexibility Act
The agency has also considered the effects of this rulemaking
action in relation to the Regulatory Flexibility Act. I certify that
this rulemaking action would not have a significant economic effect
upon a substantial number of small entities. Motor vehicle and lighting
equipment manufacturers are generally not small businesses within the
meaning of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. Further, small organizations
and governmental jurisdictions would not be significantly affected as
the price of new motor vehicles should not be impacted. Accordingly, no
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis has been prepared.
Executive Order 12612 (Federalism)
This action has been analyzed in accordance with the principles and
criteria contained in Executive Order 12612 on ``Federalism.'' It has
been determined that the rulemaking action does not have sufficient
federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a Federalism
Assessment.
National Environmental Policy Act
NHTSA has analyzed this rulemaking action for purposes of the
National Environmental Policy Act. The rulemaking action would not have
a significant effect upon the environment as it does not affect the
present method of manufacturing motor vehicle lighting equipment.
Civil Justice Reform
This rulemaking action would not have any retroactive effect. Under
49 U.S.C. 30103, whenever a Federal motor vehicle safety standard is in
effect, a state may not adopt or maintain a safety standard applicable
to the same aspect of performance which is not identical to the Federal
standard. Under 49 U.S.C. 30163, a procedure is set forth for judicial
review of final rules establishing, amending, or revoking Federal motor
vehicle safety standards. That section does not require submission of a
petition for reconsideration or other administrative proceedings before
parties may file suit in court.
Paperwork Reduction Act
The reporting and recordkeeping requirement associated with part
564 have been approved by the Office and Management and Budget in
accordance with 44 U.S.C. chapter 35. The OMB control number is 2127-
0563.
List of Subjects in 49 CFR Parts 564 and 571
Imports, Motor vehicle safety, Motor vehicles.
In consideration of the foregoing, it is proposed that 49 CFR part
564 be amended as follows:
PART 564--REPLACEABLE LIGHT SOURCE INFORMATION
1. The authority citation for part 564 would continue to read as
follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 322, 30111, 30115, 30117, 30166; delegation
of authority at 49 CFR 1.50.
2. Part 564 would be amended by revising paragraphs 564.1, 564.2,
564.5(a), (b), (c) and (d)(1), and Section IX of appendix A, and by
adding new appendix B, to read as follows:
Sec. 564.1 Scope.
This part requires the submission of dimensional, electrical
specification, and marking/designation information, as specified in
Appendix A and Appendix B of this part, for original equipment
replaceable light sources used in motor vehicle headlighting systems.
Sec. 564.2 Purposes.
The purposes of this part are achieved through its Appendices:
(a) The purpose of Appendix A of this part is to ensure the
availability to replacement light source manufacturers of the
manufacturing specifications of original equipment light sources and
thus ensure that replacement light sources are interchangeable with
original equipment light sources and provide equivalent performance.
(b) The purpose of Appendix B of this part is to ensure that
original equipment light sources are replaceable and that replacement
light source equipment provide equivalent performance, and that
redesignated or newly developed light sources are designated as
distinct and different and noninterchangeable with previously existing
light sources.
Sec. 564.5 Information filing; agency processing of filings.
(a) Each manufacturer of a motor vehicle, original equipment
headlamp, or original equipment headlamp replaceable light source,
which intends to manufacture a replaceable light source as original
equipment or to incorporate a replaceable light source in its headlamps
or motor vehicles, shall furnish the information specified in appendix
A or appendix B of this part to: Associate Administrator for Safety
Performance Standards, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,
400 Seventh Street SW, Washington, DC 20590. Attn: Replaceable Light
Source Information Docket No. 93-11 (unless the agency has already
filed such information in Docket No. 93-11). If the rated average
laboratory life of the light source is not less than 2,000 hours, the
manufacturer may furnish the information specified in either Appendix A
or Appendix B of this part.
(b) The manufacturer shall submit such information not later than
60 days before it intends to begin the manufacture of the replaceable
light source to which the information applies, or to incorporate the
light source into a headlamp or motor vehicle of its manufacture. Each
submission shall consist of one original set of information and 10
legible reproduced copies, all on 8\1/2\ by 11-inch paper.
(c) The Associate Administrator promptly reviews each submission
and informs the manufacturer not later than 30 days after its receipt
whether the submission has been accepted. Upon acceptance, the
Associate Administrator files the information in Docket No. 93-11. The
Associate Administrator does not accept any submission that does not
contain all the information specified in appendix A or appendix B of
this part, or whose accompanying information indicates that any new
light source which is the subject of a submission is interchangeable
with any replaceable light source for which the agency has previously
filed information in Docket No. 93-11. [[Page 31945]]
(d) A manufacturer may request modification of a light source for
which information has previously been filed in Docket No. 93-11, and
the submission shall be processed in the manner provided by paragraph
564.5(c). A request for modification shall contain the following:
(1) All the information specified in appendix A or appendix B of
this part that is relevant to the modification requested, * * *
* * * * *
Appendix A--Information To Be Submitted for Replaceable Light
Sources
* * * * *
IX. All other information, dimensions or performance
specifications necessary for interchangeability purposes not listed
above. If a ballast is required for operation, a complete listing of
the requirements and parameters between the light source and
ballast, and ballast and the vehicle shall also be provided.
Appendix B--Information To Be Submitted for Long Life Replaceable Light
Sources of Limited Definition
I. Bulb Base Interchangeability Dimensions and Tolerance.
A. Angular locations, diameters, key/keyway sizes, and any other
interchangeability dimensions for indexing the bulb base in the bulb
holder.
B. Diameter, width, depth, and surface finish of seal groove,
surface, or other pertinent sealing features.
C. Diameter of the bulb base at the interface of the base and
its perpendicular reference surface.
D. Dimensions of features related to retention of the bulb base
in the bulb holder such as tabs, keys, keyways, surface, etc.
II. Bulb Holder Interchangeability Dimensions and Tolerances.
A. Mating angular locations, diameters, key/keyway sizes, any
other interchangeability dimensions for indexing the bulb base in
the bulb holder.
B. Mating diameter, width, depth, and surface, or other
pertinent sealing features.
C. Mating diameter of the bulb holder at the interface of the
bulb base aperture and its perpendicular reference surface.
D. Mating dimensions of features related to retention of the
bulb base in the bulb holder such as tabs, keys, keyways, surface,
etc.
III. Electrical Specifications for Each Light Source that
Operates with a Ballast and Rated Life of the Light Source/Ballast
Combination.
A. Maximum power (in watts).
B. Luminous Flux (in lumens)
C. Rated average laboratory life of the light source/ballast
combination (not less than 2,000 hours).
IV. Applicable to light sources that operate with a source
voltage other than 12.8 volts direct current, and when a proprietary
ballast must be used with the light source.
A. Manufacturer's part number for the ballast.
B. Any other characteristics necessary for system operation.
V. Bulb Markings/Designation--ANSI Number, ECE Identifier,
Manufacturer's Part Number, Individual or in Any Combination.
VI. All other identification, dimensions or performance
specifications necessary for replaceability or systems operation not
listed above.
In consideration of the foregoing, it is proposed that 49 CFR Part
571 be amended as follows:
PART 571--FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS
1. The authority citation would continue to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 322, 30111, 30115, 30117, and 30166;
delegation of authority at 49 CFR 1.50.
2. Section 571.108 would be amended by:
(a) Adding a definition in alphabetical order to section 54 and
revising paragraph S7.7(i) to read as set forth below,
(b) Adding new paragraph S7.7(l) to read as set forth below, and
(c) Revising section S8 to read as set forth below:
Sec. 571.108 Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108 Lamps, Reflective
Devices, and Associated Equipment.
* * * * *
Filament means that part of the light source or light emitting
element(s), such as a resistive element, the excited portion of a
specific mixture of gases under pressure, or any part of other energy
conversion sources, that generates radiant energy which can be seen.
* * * * *
S7.7 * * *
* * * * *
(i) A replaceable light source shall be seasoned before measurement
of luminous flux as follows:
(1) For a light source with a resistive element type filament, the
filament shall be seasoned before measurement of maximum power and
luminous flux. Such measurement shall be made with the direct current
test voltage regulated within one quarter of one percent. The test
voltage shall be design voltage, 12.8v. The measurement of luminous
flux shall be in accordance with the Illuminating Engineering Society
of North America, LM-45; IES Approved Method for Electrical and
Photometric Measurements of General Service Incandescent Filament Lamps
(April 1980), shall be made with the black cap installed on Type HB1,
Type HB2, Type HB4, and Type HB5, and on any other replaceable light
source so designed, and shall be made with the electrical conductor and
light source base shrouded with an opaque white colored cover, except
for the portion normally located within the interior of the lamp
housing. The measurement of luminous flux for the Types HB3 and HB4
shall be with the base covered with a white cover shown in Figures 19-l
and 20-l. The white covers are used to eliminate the likelihood of
incorrect lumen measurement that will occur should the reflectance of
the light source base and electrical connector be low.
(2) For a light source using excited gas mixtures as a filament,
measurement of maximum power and luminous flux shall be made following
seasoning of the light source, including any ballast required for its
operation, in accordance with section 4.0 of SAE J2009 FEB93. A test
voltage of 12.8 volts DC shall be applied to the ballast input
terminals. The measurement of luminous flux shall be in accordance with
the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America, LM-45; IES
Approved Method for Electrical and Photometric Measurements of General
Service Incandescent Filament Lamps (April 1980), shall be made with
the black cap installed if so designed, and shall be made with any
electrical conductors and the light source base shrouded with an opaque
white colored cover, except for the portion normally located within the
interior of the lamp housing.
* * * * *
(l) If a ballast is required for operation, each ballast shall bear
the following permanent markings:
(1) Name or logo of ballast manufacturer;
(2) Ballast part number or unique identification;
(3) Part number or other unique identification of the light source
for which the ballast is designed;
(4) Rated average laboratory life of the light source/ballast
combination, if the information for the light source has been filed in
appendix B of part 564 of this chapter;
(5) A warning that ballast output voltage presents the potential
for severe electrical shock that could lead to permanent injury or
death;
(6) Ballast output power in watts and output voltage in rms volts
AC or DC;
(7) The date of manufacture; and ,
(8) The symbol `DOT'.''
* * * * *
S8 Tests and Procedures for Integral Beam and Replaceable Bulb
Headlighting Systems. When tested in accordance with the following
procedures, each integral beam headlamp shall meet the requirements
[[Page 31946]] of paragraph S7.4, and each replaceable bulb headlamp
shall meet the requirements of paragraph S7.5. Ballasts required to
operate specific gas mixture light sources shall be included in the
tests specified in paragraphs S8.1 and S8.4 though S8.7.
* * * * *
Issued on: June 13, 1995.
Barry Felrice,
Associate Administrator for Safety Performance Standards.
[FR Doc. 95-14847 Filed 6-16-95; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-59-P
