ISO 4130:1978

Overview

ISO 4130:1978, titled "Road vehicles - Three-dimensional reference system and fiducial marks - Definitions", is an international standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This standard defines a precise three-dimensional reference system along with fiducial marks used to specify and communicate dimensional data related to road vehicles as per ISO 3833, excluding motorcycles and mopeds. Essential for vehicle design, manufacturing, and inspection, the standard establishes a common framework for spatial measurements and alignment referenced to a vehicle’s initial design.

Key Topics

• Three-Dimensional Reference System
  ISO 4130 introduces three orthogonal planes-X, Y, and Z-that form a standardized coordinate system for defining vehicle dimensions:

  • Zero Y Plane: The longitudinal median plane of the vehicle, running front to back vertically.
  • Zero X Plane: A vertical plane perpendicular to the Zero Y plane, running transversely across the vehicle.
  • Zero Z Plane: A horizontal plane perpendicular to both the X and Y planes, representing the vehicle’s supporting surface, often the ground.

  All points on a vehicle are defined by coordinates (X, Y, Z) within this system, where movements forward of the X plane, to the left of the Y plane, and below the Z plane are considered negative values. This coordinate framework supports precise vehicle measurement, part positioning, and design verification.

• Fiducial Marks
  These are three or more physical reference points-such as holes, indentations, or marks-placed on the vehicle body by the manufacturer. Fiducial marks serve as definitive anchors for measuring the vehicle’s position relative to the reference system and the supporting surface under various load conditions. These marks facilitate accurate dimensional referencing during production, repairs, and quality control.

Applications

ISO 4130:1978 is primarily applied in:

• Vehicle Design and Engineering
  Establishing a common reference framework allows engineers to communicate dimensional details unambiguously throughout vehicle development stages, ensuring compatibility with other standards like ISO 3833.

• Manufacturing and Quality Assurance
  Fiducial marks and the three-dimensional coordinate system help manufacturers verify that vehicles meet design specifications and maintain geometric accuracy during assembly.

• Accident Reconstruction and Repair
  The standard aids in assessing vehicle deformation and alignment post-collision by providing fixed measurement points and a universal reference system.

• Regulatory Compliance and Certification
  Consistent dimensional referencing contributes to meeting regulatory vehicle standards, facilitating homologation and safety certification processes worldwide.

Related Standards

ISO 4130 interacts directly with several other ISO standards in the domain of road vehicle dimensions and terminology including:

• ISO 3833 - Road vehicles: Types - Terms and definitions
• ISO 612 - Road vehicles: Dimensions of motor vehicles and towed vehicles - Terms and definitions

Together, these standards provide a comprehensive normative framework for describing and standardizing vehicle dimensions, types, and reference points.

Keywords: ISO 4130, three-dimensional reference system, fiducial marks, road vehicles, vehicle dimensions, vehicle design standards, ISO 3833, vehicle manufacturing, vehicle engineering, vehicle reference planes, automotive standards, vehicle quality control.