The VDR (Voyage Data Recorder), is the maritime equivalent of the black box that is used by airlines. The system is typically two-parts comprised of a data-collection device and a deck-mounted protective pod that is designed to resist shock, fire, deep-sea pressurized, and penetration. It is used to document events that occur during navigation, but it can also provide valuable information for heavy-weather damage analysis monitoring performance and crew training.
Up-grading
Many ships fitted with VDR/SVDR equipment comply with the minimum regulatory requirements, but Members are encouraged to consider using the equipment for incident investigation, preventive maintenance and bridge team training as and for recording near misses. There are also software which can extend the duration during which VDR information is available beyond the current minimum of 12 hours. The decision needs to be taken about whether to upgrade.
The system is built around an industrial grade computer that performs a number functions, including processing and encoding data from sensors. The data is stored in a capsule that is designed to withstand an accident and provide evidence of what transpired on the vessel. The key components of the VDR system include a collection unit that is located on the bridge, a dedicated power source, an interface unit and batteries for backup. The unit gathers data from all integrated sources, including microphones to record bridge audio, and sends it to the Concentrator. Here, a series of NMEA 0183 sentences are read and encoded prior to being transmitted to the final recorded medium.
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