VDR is the equivalent of a black box on an airplane. It records all the details of an accident on the sea, including the date, time, location, speed, and the course of the vessel. The data gathered can be used to identify the potential hazards to safety and to improve operations procedures.
According to IMO regulations, the standard VDR is required to store a variety of data. This includes the following: date, time and Coordinated Universal Time, vessel location (latitude and longitude, coordinate reference) along with heading and velocity as well as audio messages from the bridge (voice messages recorded using one or more microphones located on the bridge for recording conversations as well as audible alerts), Very database access control best practices High-Frequency Radio Communications (VHF) and radar information (a accurate reproduction of the display on view at the moment of recording) Rudder and engine orders as well as watertight door status and accelerations.
The system consists of a concentrator that processes and encodes the data stream sensors that provide input to the concentrator, and a final recording medium (FRM) designed to survive accidents and to enable retrieval of data from voyages. The FRM can be fixed on the vessel, or a floating unit that is connected to an EPIRB to pinpoint the location of the vessel in the event of an accident.
The most effective way to ensure the integrity of the vdr system is make its use an integral part of all bridge drills and training sessions for crews. The saved data can be used to pinpoint areas in which training is required and as a means to improve bridge procedures and operational safety.