What is a VDR System?
What is a VDR System?
The VDR (Voyage Data Recorder), is the maritime counterpart to the black box that is used by airlines. The system is typically two-parts comprised of a data-collection unit and a deck-mounted safety pod that is designed to withstand shock and fire, deep-sea pressure and penetration. It is commonly used to record navigation events, but it can also provide valuable data to analyze the effects of heavy weather and performance monitoring as well as training for crew members.
Up-grading
Many ships with VDR/SVDR meet the minimum regulatory requirements. However, members are encouraged to use the equipment to document near misses, conduct investigation into incidents as well as for preventive maintenance. Additionally, there are programs that can dramatically extend the amount of time that VDR information is available, starting from the current 12 hour minimum and a choice should be made about whether or not to upgrade to this.
The system is built on an industrial-grade computer that performs a number functions, including processing and encoding data from sensors. The data is stored inside a capsule built to withstand an incident and provide evidence of what happened onboard the vessel. The major components of the VDR system include a collection unit that is located on the bridge, a dedicated power source, an interface unit and backup batteries. The unit gathers data from all integrated sources, including microphones to record bridge audio and transmits it to the Concentrator. There, a series of NMEA 0183 sentences are interpreted and encoded before being sent to the final recorded medium.