EMC: REGULATORY COMPLIANCE Wearable testing must


Compliance testing of wearable devices goes far beyond EMC as the regulatory framework continues to emerge, explains Clare Wright of TÜV SÜD Product Service


B


ringing safe wearable devices to market can pose numerous challenges to manufacturers, distributors and retailers. Incorporating technology into


non-technology products, such as jewellery and apparel, is a complex process that requires thoughtful design and careful planning. Also, many wearables are built using off-


the-shelf electronic systems and components that were not expressly designed for use in such applications. They may therefore be assembled from unique combinations of components and materials that may not match other non-wearable applications, for which they were first developed. This means that there is likely to be insufficient information available to assess just how well standard components in previously unused combinations will hold up in wearable applications. It is also proving a challenge to reliably


determine all of the possible conditions to which wearables will be subjected when they are used. For example, it is difficult to predict the typical usage patterns of consumers using health and wellness devices, as this can vary widely. On the other hand, some wearables that are primarily intended for use by consumers, may be purchased for commercial use in applications that exceed the most rigorous consumer use as predicted by the manufacturer.


DEVICE COMPLIANCE Manufacturers of wearable devices must face a challenge when meeting applicable regulatory requirements and standards. This is because it’s the norm for the introduction of new regulations and standards to follow behind technology developments. In a situation where there are few or inappropriate standards, it is up


38 /// Environmental Engineering /// September 2018


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