Event Data Recorders (EDRs)

Heavy Truck Electronic Control Modules (ECMs)

The Electronic Control Modules employed by heavy truck engines manufactured by CATERPILLAR, CUMMINS, DETROIT DIESEL, and MERCEDES have the ability to store incident information. These data may include such parameters as wheel speed, brake use, clutch use, throttle use, engine speed, and general programming configuration. Following a crash, this information can be extremely valuable in determining how and why the incident occurred.

GLCA staff have been extensively involved in heavy truck EDR research and testing. The results of these endeavors have been published in the Accident Reconstruction Journal and in technical papers presented at the 2010 and 2011 Society of Automotive Engineers World Congresses. GLCA personnel continue to pursue academic research in this field in cooperation with recognized industry leaders and institutions.

Because GLCA has developed specialized engine harnesses for imaging ECM data at our offices, it is possible to remove the ECM from the truck and ship it to us for analysis. This saves on travel costs, and allows a case assessment to be made with only a minimal investment. These harnesses, which allow data to be imaged without overwriting existing data, were designed based on GLCA research and have been tested to ensure that no data are overwritten during the imaging process.

Sample EDRs

GM ACM The GM Airbag Control Module will store up to 8 seconds of pre-crash information.

Ford PCMA Ford Powertrain Control Module can store up to 25 seconds of incident data.

Heavy Truck ECMHeavy truck Electronic Control Modules can record over 90 seconds of crash information.

Passenger Vehicle Airbag (ACMs) and Powertrain Control Modules (PCMs)

Following a crash incident, EDRs in certain CHRYSLER, FORD, GM, and ISUZU vehicles may store information surrounding the event. These data can include up to 25 seconds of speed, brake use, throttle input, engine speed, and seatbelt use information. This assists crash reconstructionists and engineers in analyzing the collision from all aspects of the event.

Our personnel have received specialized training in the field of passenger vehicle EDRs, and have been involved in validation testing. This experience and study allows us to provide an informed analysis of recovered data. When imaging data, our staff can access the applicable module while it is in the vehicle or the EDR can be shipped to us for information retrieval.