Stuff You Should Know SYSK Selects: How Black Boxes Work
Oct 12, 2019
Discover the fascinating world of black boxes that survive plane crashes to reveal crucial information about aviation incidents. Learn how these resilient devices are engineered and tested to withstand extreme conditions. Myths about flight recorders are debunked, and the significance of cockpit voice recorders is highlighted, showcasing how even minor sounds can unveil vital insights. The podcast also explores innovative adaptations of black box technology for automotive safety and dives into cultural reflections surrounding these remarkable devices.
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Episode notes
Listener Request
- This SYSK Selects episode, "How Black Boxes Work," was a special request from Cormac Rondazzo.
- Josh Clark introduces the episode and the topic of black boxes.
Black Box System
- Black boxes are mistakenly thought of as single items, but they're actually complex systems of components.
- These components record flight data and cockpit audio to help understand plane crashes.
Inventor of the Black Box
- David Warren, an Australian, invented the black box recorder after a mysterious plane crash.
- He envisioned recording cockpit conversations to aid investigations, leading to its widespread use.