.png)
Why Early Compliance is Crucial in Product Development
At Pilotfish, we prioritize compliance from the very beginning, starting with our first phase, “Product DNA.” Unlike many developers who consider certification only after product engineering is nearly complete, we integrate compliance early to avoid costly redesigns later.
Why Start Early with Compliance?
Addressing compliance issues late in the development process can be expensive. For example, EMI radiation problems often arise with USB power supplies and shielding issues. These issues might require additional grounding or shielding, which can be challenging to incorporate into an existing design. This often necessitates enlarging the enclosure, leading to a cascade of changes: new packaging, revised 3D modelling, prototyping, and additional testing. If injection moulding tools are already made, the costs and delays increase significantly.
How to Prevent Delays and Costs?
Test Early, Fail Early. At Pilotfish, we follow a structured project landscape to ensure compliance is an active part of each development phase.
Product DNA: Create a compliance plan, define target markets, and identify necessary approvals for market entry.
Concept Phase: Select critical components, like pre-approved radio modules, to reduce testing time and costs.
Design Phase: Deliver EVT samples and perform the first pre-compliance tests on critical requirements. Only proceed if feedback is positive.
Engineering Phase: Develop DVT samples and conduct the second pre-compliance tests before starting tooling. This helps ensure the final product will pass full compliance tests.
Pilot Run: During the pilot run, we use the final product materials and PCBA’s produced via SMT to conduct the final compliance tests.
What Compliance Regulations Should You Be Aware Of?
For an electronic device, compliance spans several categories:
Electrical Safety
Low Voltage Directive (LVD): Ensures electrical safety for devices operating between 50-1000V AC or 75-1500V DC.
EMC Directive: Prevents electromagnetic interference with other devices.
Environmental Standards
RoHS Directive: Restricts hazardous substances such as lead and mercury.
REACH Regulation: Governs the safe use of chemical substances in materials.
WEEE Directive: Addresses recycling and proper disposal of electronic devices.
Ecodesign Directive: Promotes energy efficiency and sustainability in product design.
Wireless and IoT Compliance
RED (Radio Equipment Directive): Covers wireless communication devices like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi-enabled equipment.
Cybersecurity Act: From 2026, all internet-connected devices must comply with robust cybersecurity regulations. Pilotfish collaborates with IoT consulting partners to stay ahead of these evolving requirements.
Sustainability and Circular Economy
European Sustainability Product Regulation (ESPR): With phased implementation starting in 2024, this regulation emphasizes repairability, recyclability, and reduced environmental impact for products entering the EU market.
Why Design for Compliance?
Integrating compliance into the development process not only avoids delays and unexpected costs but also ensures your device is ready for certification and market entry. By addressing regulations like EMC, and ESPR early, we help you deliver innovative products that meet stringent EU standards.
Read more about cybersecurity in the blog on IoTapproval.com: cybersecurity for IOT devices
Want to know more? Reach out via the Contact form.
