BSAS 330 Module 7.3 Discussion

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Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University *

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330

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Mechanical Engineering

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Dec 6, 2023

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Instruments: 1. Explain the challenges of reading broken instruments such as older analog "round gauges" that might be found on the Zonk Air accident aircraft. Reading broken instruments, particularly older analog "round gauges" on general aviation aircraft like Zonk Air, poses several challenges. Damaged gauges may provide inaccurate or unreliable information, leading to misinterpretation by investigators. The impact forces during a crash can cause needle misalignment or damage which can make it difficult to determine the actual instrument readings. Shattered glass or obscured markings on analog gauges can further complicate the analysis but may also help make an educated guess as to where the needle was by using a technique called shadowing. 2. Evaluate your observations from the presentations and course material on instruments and switches. Do they "capture" compelling and sole source evidence of the crash dynamics? The instruments may not always capture the entire sequence of events, but they serve as key indicators of the aircraft's condition and the pilot's actions. Analog gauges, though less sophisticated than modern glass displays, can still provide valuable insights when intact. Switch positions, such as those related to engine controls or landing gear, can offer clues about the pilot's intentions and the state of the aircraft during critical moments. 3. Can accident information be obtained from any personal handheld digital device found at the scene? Explain and provide an example. Personal handheld digital devices found at the scene, such as smartphones or tablets, may contain valuable information related to the accident. These devices might store GPS data, communication records, or photos/videos taken during the flight. This information can aid investigators in reconstructing the flight path, understanding in-flight communications, or identifying potential factors leading to the crash. An example would be a video or picture of an engine on fire inflight that is GPS stamped. This would give the investigator information that the engine was on fire at this distance from the crash site. Thus, helping build a flight path and develop causes for the accident. Data Capture Systems: 1. Briefly explain the differences and capabilities between various data recording/capture systems. Various data recording/capture systems exist, ranging from basic onboard recorders to more advanced systems. Onboard recorders like Flight Data Recorders (FDRs) and Cockpit Voice Recorders (CVRs), offer comprehensive information for post-accident analysis. FDRs record information such as airspeed, altitude, heading, vertical acceleration, control inputs, and engine performance. CVRs capture conversations among the flight crew, alarms, and other cockpit sounds. This information provides insights into crew communications and decision-making. Another type of recorder is a Quick Access Recorder (QAR) and it records a subset of flight data for routine monitoring and analysis. However, QARs only store data for shorter durations compared to FDRs. 2. Compare and contrast the value between onboard capture systems and down-linking data systems.

Onboard capture systems provide a reliable and comprehensive flight data record, especially in remote areas where real-time downlinking is challenging. However, down-linking systems, which transmit data in real-time to ground-based facilities, offer immediate access to critical information. While onboard systems provide a post-accident data repository, down-linking systems enable proactive monitoring and intervention. 3. Why are such systems usually not mandated on private general aviation aircraft? Mandating data capture systems on private general aviation aircraft involves considerations of cost, size, and weight. Private aircraft owners may find the installation of sophisticated recording systems financially burdensome, and the added weight could impact the aircraft's performance. Regulatory bodies like the FAA often balance the potential safety benefits against the practicality of implementation. As a result, mandates for data capture systems are more commonly applied to commercial and larger aircraft, where the safety benefits are deemed to outweigh the associated costs and logistical challenges. References Berry, M. (2019, October 29). Instrument Issues. Aviation Safety Magazine. https://www.aviationsafetymagazine.com/features/instrument-issues/ Cox, B. (2016, February 06). Flight Recorder For The Little Guy. Plane and Pilot Magazine. https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/article/flight-recorder-for-the-little-guy/ NTSB. (n.d.). Cockpit Voice Recorders (CVR) and Flight Data Recorders (FDR). https://www.ntsb.gov/news/Pages/cvr_fdr.aspx Skybrary. (n.d.) Controller Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC). https://skybrary.aero/articles/controller-pilot-data-link-communications-cpdlc

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