Re the data recorders having power shut down and no more recording.
This is a bit of a problem for sure and must be a hindrance when primary sensor logic has not given enough clues as to why the aircraft may be descending. No doubt recording the pilot’s subsequent actions would help to build a better picture. I note the other thread where it talks about transmitting copious quantities of video data back to a monitor during EMS work. (Safety solution for helicopter EMS sorted)
Certainly transmitting coded bursts of information has been around via satellite comms for a while. So while I was tooling along the other day in a straight line I figured maybe the new 406MHZ ELT’s could be put to a more profound use.
Not only can they now send GPS co-ordinates but of course each ELT is coded to a particular aircraft. Perhaps they could also be enhanced to record, on say a fifteen minute loop, coded data from selected inputs such as the famous black boxes, and then transmit that data via satellite along with their distress call to be recorded back at search headquarters.
The other issue of power loss also needs to be overcome via a redundancy package of standby power which will drive the sensors on the critical control points (HACCP) independently of the main power sources.
Patent issues on the data recorders may mean that this would all have to be done externally to the devices.
The ELT may be positioned in close proximity to the data recorders for ease of data transfer via hard wire, but easily breakable, or a discreet UHF frequency.
Recently Nick Lappos invited us all to contribute ideas to be valued for inclusion in new generation helicopters. These issues may gel with him.
HACCP or Hazard Analysis on Critical Control Points was given to us by NASA as a result of a certain O-ring falling out of a fuel tank on a space shuttle. It is now widely used in many industries, particularly the meat industry at abattoirs and processing works in searching for the elusive E-coli, and anything to do with meat safety.
Besides there must be at least a small amount of silver lining in the dark cloud that this accident so far seems to be.
Cheers Tet