The VDR (Voyage Data Recorder) is here are the findings the maritime equivalent to the black box used by airlines. The system typically consists of two components that include a data collection device and a deck-mounted protective pod that is designed to withstand shock or fire, deep-sea pressurized, and penetration. It is used primarily to record navigation incidents but it also provides valuable information to analyze the effects of heavy weather and monitoring of performance, as well as training for crew members.
Up-grading
Many ships fitted with VDR/SVDR devices meet the minimum regulatory requirements however, Members are urged to think about using the equipment for incident investigation and preventive maintenance, bridge team training as in addition to recording near misses. There are also software options that could significantly extend the time for which VDR data is available beyond the current 12 hour minimum and a decision should be made on whether or not to upgrade to this.
The system is built around an industrial-grade processor that performs many functions, such as processing and encoding information received from sensors. It then stores the data inside a capsule designed to withstand an accident and provide proof of what transpired on the ship. The primary components of the VDR system are a data collection unit that is located on the bridge, a separate power source as well as an interface unit and batteries for backup. The unit gathers data from all sources integrated such as microphones that record bridge audio, and then sends it to the Concentrator. Here, a series of NMEA 0183 sentences is interpreted and encoded to be transmitted to the final recorded medium.