Transport Equipments

Decathlon

ECM pre-validation for bicycles operated on a dedicated test bench

Decathlon has vastly expanded its range of electrically-assisted bicycles. Their compliance with the Electromagnetic Compatibility directive has been validated with Cetim's teams through a dedicated facility for these products.

Customer requirement

Decathlon has vastly expanded its range of electrically-assisted bicycles. As a result, the company must ensure that its new bikes meet the requirements of European Directive 2014/30/EU on electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) before they are launched on the market.

The case

Like all electrical equipment, electri- cally-assisted bicycles must comply with European Directive 2014/30/EU on electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). These tests require spe- cific technical resources and expertise in EMC. Decathlon has enlisted Cetim's expertise as part of the certification pro- cess for its electrically-assisted bicycles (EABs). "We were already working with Cetim on the certification of the first EABs. With the launch of many new models, we have continued and developed this partnership. Not least because there are few anechoic chambers close to our premises in Lille with the necessary characteristics for testing EABs. What's more, in view of this increased activity, Cetim has invested in a specific EAB test bench that makes it easier to carry out these tests", explained Jean-Baptiste Sauvage, e-Bike project manager.

    

Recently, Cetim has greatly expanded its EMC testing resources. It now has two anechoic chambers which are essential in this field. The first is designed to carry out tests on a variety of fixed appliances and equipment. The second, which was commissioned in October 2023, incorporates an E-Bike test bench for checking the EMC compliance of an EAB in accordance with standard EN 15194. "This test bench will enable us to simulate the use of the bike at the test points specified in the EMC standard for EABs. Following initial difficulties, both mechanical and with the control laws, Cetim quickly embarked on a process of continuous improvement in order to simplify and guarantee the reproducibility of the tests. Ultimately, this enabled us to reduce our validation times. Our partnership is one in which we make mutual progress, and that's what we also look for in our suppliers. The service is therefore tailored to our needs," added Jean-Baptiste Sauvage.

At a glance

Cetim’s solution

Performance of EMC tests in accordance with current standards and test procedures. Tests of electrically-assisted bicycles on the E-Bike test bench at various operating points. Its experts examine the behaviour of the on-board electronics to provide advice on optimising the EMC design as well as other mechanical aspects

Customer benefits

It benefits from dedicated EMC test facilities: two anechoic chambers equipped with the requisite measurement equipment (antennae, power amplifiers, measurement receivers, etc.), including an E-Bike test bench for checking the EMC compliance of an electrically-assisted bicycle in accordance with standard EN 15194.

Delivered results

The tests were carried out on Decathlon's entire range of new electrically-assisted bicycles, which includes around twenty references. Implementation of a continuous improvement process to simplify and guarantee the reproducibility of the tests thereby reducing validation times.

You have a similar goal ?

Decathlon

Designer of sports products and in-store and online sales.
WORKFORCE
24,700 team members in France, all contracts combined.
TURNOVER
4.7 billion euros in France in 2022.