On-Train Monitoring Recorders (OTMR)

This article was opened on 10 January 2005, and last updated on 7 March 2015.

Introduction

For our train to be driven on the main line, since 2006 its driving vehicles have needed to be fitted with Data Recorders or “black boxes”, officially known as On-Train Monitoring Recorders (OTMR). These record every action that the crew makes at the controls.

The DEMUs are of course not controlled by computer, unlike modern trains; therefore every control has to be fitted with an extra contact and wiring — to every notch on the master controller, the various positions of the driver’s brake valve, AWS/TPWS reset button and cut-outs, and so forth. The sheer amount of extra wiring has to be seen to be believed, and we have provided the proof below! The photographs are by Andy Armitage.

Current status

As at the date (above) on which this article was last modified:

Fitting of OTMR to Motor Coach 60118 Tunbridge Wells was completed on 6 April 2007, with Motor Coach 60116 Mountfield likewise about six weeks later.

On Friday 22 June 2007, both of the above vehicles passed inspection and, given the completion of a parallel project to fit Central Door Locking (CDL), were re-certified to run on the main line.

On 4 March 2015, OTMR was commissioned on motor coach 60019 as part of its general overhaul and restoration.

Of our other two motor coaches, one (60001) is stored in original condition; and 60000 Hastings is due for a more general overhaul and rewiring job during which OTMR & CDL will be fitted.

Photos

Work on fitting the first set of equipment was begun in conjunction with the supplier, Arrowvale, on Tuesday 30 May 2006; motor coach 60118 Tunbridge Wells was the vehicle chosen.