Revealing the Mysteries of Aircraft Accidents : The Secrets of the Flight Data Recorder

 

A Flight Data Recorder (FDR), also known as a Black Box, is a device installed in aircraft to record a range of flight parameters and events. The FDR plays a critical role in accident investigation and is designed to survive in extreme conditions, providing valuable information that can be used to determine the cause of a crash.

 

The working of a Flight Data Recorder can be broken down into three main components: the sensing system, the recording system, and the storage system.

 

1. Sensing system: The sensing system is responsible for collecting data from various sensors installed in the aircraft. These sensors can measure parameters such as altitude, airspeed, heading, vertical acceleration, and engine performance. The data from these sensors is then converted into a digital signal and transmitted to the recording system.

 

2. Recording system: The recording system is responsible for storing the data collected by the sensing system. The system typically consists of a Solid State Memory Unit (SSMU), which is a type of memory that can withstand high temperatures, shock, and vibration. The SSMU records the data in a continuous loop, with the oldest data being overwritten by new data as the memory becomes full.

 

3. Storage system: The storage system is the final component of the FDR and is designed to protect the data recorded by the recording system. The FDR is typically housed in a crash-protected container, which is constructed of materials that can withstand extreme temperatures, impact, and fire. The container is also equipped with an underwater locator beacon, which emits a signal to help locate the FDR in the event of an accident.

Typical FDR

In summary, the Flight Data Recorder is a critical component of modern aircraft and plays a vital role in accident investigation. The FDR consists of three main components: the sensing system, the recording system, and the storage system. The sensing system collects data from various sensors, which is then stored in a Solid State Memory Unit by the recording system. The FDR is housed in a crash-protected container, which is equipped with an underwater locator beacon to help locate the device in the event of an accident.

 

How FDR varies from CVR?

 

The Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) are two separate devices that are often referred to collectively as the "black box". While they are both critical components of aircraft safety, they serve different functions and record different types of data.

 

1. Function: The FDR records a range of flight parameters and events, such as altitude, airspeed, heading, vertical acceleration, and engine performance. The purpose of the FDR is to provide investigators with objective data that can be used to determine the cause of an accident.

 

2. Data Recorded: On the other hand, the CVR records all conversations and sounds that occur in the cockpit during flight, including communication between the pilots, radio transmissions, alarms, and other cockpit noises. The purpose of the CVR is to provide investigators with a record of the crew's actions and communication, which can be used to understand the crew's decision-making process and identify potential safety issues.

 

3. Location: Another difference between the FDR and CVR is their location within the aircraft. The FDR is typically located in the tail of the aircraft, where it is less likely to be damaged in the event of an accident. The CVR, on the other hand, is usually located in the cockpit, where it can capture all sounds and conversations occurring in the cockpit.

 

4. Recording Duration: The FDR and CVR also differ in terms of their recording duration. The FDR records data continuously, with the oldest data being overwritten by new data as the memory becomes full. In contrast, the CVR typically records the last two hours of cockpit audio, although some newer models can record up to 25 hours of audio.