System and method for accident logging in an automated machine

A method of logging visual data and sensor data associated with a triggering event in an autonomous machine, comprising:

• receiving a visual data output from the autonomous machine;
• receiving an operational parameter output from the autonomous machine;
• storing the visual data output and the operational parameter output in a memory buffer on the autonomous machine;
• detecting a condition indicative of the triggering event on the autonomous machine;
• continuing to store the visual data output and the operational parameter output in the memory buffer for a predetermined time after the triggering event on the autonomous machine;
• and
• storing contents of the memory buffer in a permanent memory device, said contents occurring before, during, and after the triggering event, and said contents to include the visual data output and the operational parameter output.

An autonomous machine, comprising:

• a power source;
• a traction device driven by the power source to propel the machine;
• a camera to provide a visual data output;
• a sensor to provide an operational parameter output;
• a memory buffer to store the visual data output and the operational parameter output;
• a permanent memory device to selectively store contents of the memory buffer, to include the visual data output and the operational parameter output;
• and
• a controller configured to:
• detect a condition indicative of a triggering event;
• and
• store the contents of the memory buffer in the permanent memory at a predetermined time after the triggering event, said contents corresponding to the visual data output and the operational parameter output occurring before, during, and after the triggering event.