Integrated Event Recorder Universal Time Stamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing event recorders for mobile vehicles, such as trains, are limited in their ability to accurately record and synchronize multiple types of data, leading to inaccuracies in accident investigations and increased investigation time, as they often lack the capability to associate a universal time stamp with various data types stored in crash-hardened memory.
Innovation Solution
An integrated event recorder with an outer case containing a first memory module for storing multiple types of data, including video, audio, locomotive parameters, and positive train control data, and a controller that associates a universal time stamp with this data, with a crash-hardened inner case for storing a portion of the time-stamped data for protection during severe conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple types of data are recorded separately with different time sources, then data storage capacity is increased, but data synchronization accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate time sources into a single universal time stamp that is applied to all data types (video, audio, sensor data) recorded by the system. This is achieved through a time synchronization module that generates a common time reference, eliminating the need to stitch together data from different time sources and ensuring accurate temporal correlation across all recorded data streams.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal time stamping mechanism that serves all data recording functions simultaneously. Instead of having separate time sources for different data types, a single time synchronization system provides universal time reference to video cameras, audio recorders, and sensor systems, enabling one system to fulfill multiple timing functions accurately.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex software is used to synchronize different data types, then data recording capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a universal time reference before data recording begins. The time synchronization module pre-configures all data acquisition systems to use the same time source, so that when recording starts, all data streams are already time-aligned. This eliminates the need for complex post-processing synchronization software.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a time synchronization module as an intermediary between the various data sources and the recording systems. This mediator component provides a common time reference to all subsystems, simplifying their individual designs while ensuring overall system synchronization without requiring complex interaction between components.
3Ease of operation
If investigators rely on witness statements and approximations, then investigation flexibility is maintained, but investigation accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by providing investigators with precise, time-synchronized data from the recording system that objectively reflects the actual sequence of events. This feedback mechanism replaces subjective witness accounts with verifiable recorded evidence, allowing investigators to accurately determine the timing and sequence of events while maintaining investigative flexibility in analyzing the data.
Data Source
AI summary
An event recorder includes an outer case, and a first memory module including a first amount of data storage capacity contained within the outer case. The first memory module is configured to receive and store multiple types of data including at least two of: video data; audio data; locomotive data indicative of one or more locomotive operating parameters, locomotive control signals, and locomotive performance characteristics; engine operating parameter data; exhaust characteristics data; electrical data; and positive train control data. A controller contained within the outer case may be configured to associate a universal time stamp with each of the multiple types of data stored in the first memory module. An inner, crash-hardened case may be contained within the outer case, containing a second memory module including a second amount of data storage capacity that is smaller than the first amount. The controller may be further configured to periodically transfer a portion of the time-stamped data stored in the first memory module to the second memory module.