VDR (Voyage Data Recorder) is the maritime version of the black box airlines use. It is typically made up of two parts comprising a data collection device and a deck-mounted protective pod that is designed to resist shock or fire, deep-sea pressurized and penetration. It’s used to record events that occur during navigation, but it can also provide valuable data for analysis of damage caused by heavy weather and monitoring performance as well as crew training.

Up-grading

Many ships with VDR/SVDR meet the minimum requirements of regulatory compliance. However, Members are encouraged to use the equipment to record near missed events, conduct investigations into incidents and for preventive maintenance. There are also software that can extend the period for which VDR information is available beyond the minimum of 12 hours. A decision should be taken as to whether or not to upgrade.

The system is constructed around an industrial computer that is able to perform various functions, including processing and encoding the data gathered from sensors. The data is stored in a capsule designed to withstand an accident and provide evidence of what occurred onboard the vessel. The major components of the VDR system comprise a data collection unit that click to investigate is located on the bridge, a separate power source along with an interface unit as well as batteries for backup. The unit collects data from all sources integrated including microphones for recording bridge audio, and then sends it to the Concentrator where the resulting NMEA 0183 sentences are processed and encoded prior to being transmitted to the final recorded medium.