Computer system for the timed firing of pyrotechnic devices that uses a closed or open ethernet network.

Abstract

Some of the most advanced fireworks displays incorporate music, video, lights, and other special effects. For the seamless operation of these displays, the presence of computerized firing systems on the market can be greatly appreciated. In addition to entertainment value, the abilities of initiating a fireworks display from a distance and being able to stop a display at any time has made shooting fireworks displays safer than ever. However, because of the expense of this hardware, these elaborate displays can be far out of reach for anyone who has a lower budget. The idea outlined in this patent will help solve that issue by suggesting an asynchronous computerized firing system. This system can be initiated using a personal computer without any proprietary hardware with the exception of low cost modules.

Description

DEFINITIONS FOR TERMS USED[0001]Pyrotechnic Devices: Devices used in the commercial fireworks industry such as aerial shells, mines, comets, fountains, gerbs, etc.[0002]Pyro-Musical: A pyrotechnic display that uses pyrotechnic devices synchronized to music.[0003]Personal Computer: A computer readily available such as a laptop, desktop, tablet, or any other form of disk operated system.[0004]E-match: The electrical triggering device used to trigger pyrotechnic devices.[0005]Firing Computer: The computer used as the direct controller for the firing of pyrotechnic devices. *The terms firing computer, computer, system, and controller are all used interchangeably.[0006]Network: A number of digital devices that interconnected using a data transfer protocol native to personal computers.[0007]Module: A slave device that converts the firing code to electrical signals that trigger pyrotechnic devices.[0008]Firing Code: The digital code that is used by the firing computer to trigger pyrotechni...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The proposed system is an all-inclusive system that helps users design and execute commercial pyrotechnics displays. It allows users to set timing for triggering pyrotechnic devices, while organizing them into groups and informing the user how they can be attached to the system. The system automatically accounts for latency between the trigger and the burst of the device, and can also be used in an electrically fired display. The system can be tested without risking damage or danger to the crew, and can notify the operator of any devices that did not receive a fire code. The system also allows the operator to arm or disarm certain cues to prevent accidental firing. Overall, the system simplifies the design process and reduces the risk of injury or damage to the display.

Problems solved by technology

Because of the proprietary hardware that the current synchronous systems require, they can be quite costly.

Because of these advances, transmission delays over these types of networks have become imperceptible at close ranges with these delays being as low as a few milliseconds.

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