Explosive systems and methods for loading explosive materials

Abstract

The present invention relates to a blasting system (1) configured for loading explosive material into a borehole (3). The system (1) includes: a detonator support device (5) configured to be inserted into the borehole (3) by means of a loading hose (7); a body (9) of the detonator support device (5) including a channel (8) oriented along a body centerline (CL) extending along a borehole extension during the loading of the explosive material; and an openable cover device (14) covering the channel (8), configured to contact the moving loading hose (7) for pushing the body (9) along the borehole (3), wherein the moving loading hose (7) is configured to open the openable cover device (14) while a stop device (13) stops the body (9). The invention also relates to a method for loading explosive material into a borehole (3) by means of the blasting system (1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the blasting system according to claim 1 and the method for loading explosive materials according to claim 8.

[0002] This invention relates primarily to the mining industry using blasting systems and detonator support devices and methods of loading explosive materials.

[0003] The present invention also relates to the industry of manufacturing detonator support devices and blasting systems. Background Technology

[0004] In underground mines, water may be present in the drilled borehole. This water originates from drilling or from groundwater. In such an environment, the borehole walls may have a water film, or may even be completely filled with water. This wet drilling involves explosives failing to adhere sufficiently to the borehole walls due to the water film. Because of this poor adhesion, the explosives may leak from the borehole and splash onto the mine's rock face floor. The consequences of splashing are multifaceted, including hazardous working conditions due to explosives covering the entire rock face floor, nitrogen and other chemical contamination of groundwater, and adverse effects on water pumps.

[0005] In a blasting operation using a blasting system, at least one borehole is drilled into the rock, and explosive material is loaded into the borehole using a loading hose. The explosive material in the borehole is detonated by a detonator unit arranged in a detonator support device, wherein the detonation of the explosive material causes the rock to break apart.

[0006] In the mining industry, current blasting systems and explosive material loading methods for loading explosive materials into wet boreholes can use different types of plugs or cartridges to hold the explosive materials in the wet borehole.

[0007] However, the use of existing blasting systems in wet drilling is time-consuming. In existing systems, the plug and cartridge are pushed out of the wet borehole due to the high water pressure that accumulates in the borehole above them. Therefore, the high water pressure, along with the weight of the explosive material, affects the plug or cartridge from above.

[0008] Drilling is typically done vertically. However, drilling can have different directions, such as roughly horizontal or inclined. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The objective is to provide a blasting system configured for loading explosive material into wet boreholes.

[0010] The objective is to provide a blasting system that is easy and safe to operate, while simultaneously providing sustained initiation of explosive materials.

[0011] The objective is to provide a blasting system that safely holds or contains explosive material within a borehole.

[0012] The aim is to provide a blasting system that is low in cost and saves time.

[0013] The aim is to provide a blasting system that is flexible and adjustable for different types of boreholes and boreholes of different lengths.

[0014] The goal is to provide a lightweight blasting system.

[0015] The purpose is to provide a lightweight detonator support device for a blasting system.

[0016] The aim is to provide a blasting system that can be used by a loading truck, which is also used for loading explosive materials in dry boreholes.

[0017] The objective is to provide a blasting system that facilitates the safe blasting and initiation of explosive materials.

[0018] The objective is to provide a compact detonator support device for a blasting system.

[0019] The objective is to provide a detonator support device for a blasting system that can be used in a flexible blasting system configured to be loaded in boreholes in a mine.

[0020] The purpose is to provide a detonator support device for a blasting system, which can be used in different blasting loading applications and systems in boreholes.

[0021] This objective, or at least one of the objectives, has been achieved by a blasting system configured for loading explosive material into a borehole, the system comprising: a detonator support configured to be inserted into the borehole by means of a loading hose; a body of the detonator support including a channel oriented along a body centerline (CL) extending along a borehole extension during the loading of the explosive material; and an openable cover device covering the channel configured to contact the moving loading hose for pushing the body along the borehole, wherein the moving loading hose is configured to open the openable cover device while a stop device stops the body.

[0022] Alternatively, the openable cover device is configured to open via the free end of the filling hose nozzle in motion, while the main body is configured to stop at a predetermined distance from the borehole inlet.

[0023] Alternatively, the filling hose nozzle is configured for the actuating body and configured to open the openable cover device by further movement of the filling hose through the opening to open the openable cover device.

[0024] Alternatively, the loading hose nozzle is configured to release explosive material into the borehole after the openable cover device is opened.

[0025] Alternatively, boreholes are typically drilled vertically.

[0026] Alternatively, boreholes can typically extend at an angle or horizontally.

[0027] Alternatively, a borehole includes the borehole inlet and the bottom of the borehole.

[0028] Alternatively, the body includes a first end facing the borehole inlet during the loading of the explosive material, and a second end facing the bottom of the borehole when the body is in place in the borehole.

[0029] Alternatively, the loading hose is moved by an electric motor from the mining truck.

[0030] Alternatively, the filling hose is configured to separate or break the separable cover member of the openable cover device by the movement of the filling hose, while the stop device stops the main body.

[0031] Alternatively, the filling hose nozzle is configured to separate or break openable cap devices.

[0032] Alternatively, the openable cover device includes a backflow prevention valve device configured to prevent explosive material discharged from the filling hose from flowing back into and / or through the channel when the filling hose has been removed from the opening.

[0033] Alternatively, a detonator unit compartment is provided in the main body adjacent to the passage, and the detonator unit compartment is configured to support the detonator unit.

[0034] Alternatively, the detonator unit compartment exhibits an extension parallel to the extension of the channel and is located adjacent to the channel, and exhibits a compartment opening facing the bottom of the borehole during the loading of the explosive material.

[0035] Alternatively, the detonator unit is supported by gravity from the detonator unit compartment.

[0036] Alternatively, a detonating wire component, such as an impact tube or detonating wire, is connected to the detonator unit and extends from the detonator unit, located in the detonator unit compartment, through the exterior of the main body toward the borehole entrance.

[0037] Alternatively, the body includes an elastic member extending circumferentially around the body, and the elastic member is arranged to the outer peripheral surface of the body and around the central axis of the body.

[0038] Alternatively, the elastic member extends around the body coaxially with the central axis of the body in the circumferential direction.

[0039] Alternatively, the elastic members extend discontinuously around the body.

[0040] Alternatively, the elastic member is made of a flexible elastic material and is adapted to engage the borehole wall and / or be biased to securely engage with the borehole wall.

[0041] Alternatively, the elastic member is toothed with open spaces between it.

[0042] Alternatively, the resilient member includes at least one open space configured to allow water to flow along the borehole wall.

[0043] In this way, water is allowed to pass through the exterior of the body and between the borehole wall and the outer peripheral surface of the body, thereby passing through the at least one open space.

[0044] This method avoids the accumulation of water pressure above the main body, which would otherwise force the main body out of the borehole, thereby releasing the explosive material from the borehole.

[0045] Alternatively, the elastic member exhibits toothed lobes, each toothed lobe having an outwardly inclined extension of 30 to 70 degrees, preferably 45 to 60 degrees, relative to the body centerline and tilting downward toward the first end.

[0046] Alternatively, mesh members or other suitable filtering members are arranged to cover the open space of the elastic member.

[0047] This is achieved by allowing gravel and sand, but primarily water, to pass through the elastic structure.

[0048] Alternatively, the elastic member allows the elastic member to elastically deform when the body is inserted into the borehole, thereby engaging the borehole wall.

[0049] In this way, a strong bond is achieved between the body and the borehole wall.

[0050] Alternatively, at least one elastic member extends circumferentially around the body and is arranged to the outer peripheral surface of the body and around the central axis of the body.

[0051] Alternatively, the elastic members extend continuously around the body.

[0052] Alternatively, the resilient member is adapted to sealably engage the borehole wall, thereby biasing toward the borehole wall to hold the detonator support in place within the borehole.

[0053] Alternatively, the upper portion of the detonator support includes a protrusion or a recess, and the lower portion of the detonator support includes a recess or a protrusion, the recess and the protrusion cooperating with each other to connect adjacent detonator supports to each other.

[0054] Alternatively, the openable cover device includes an anti-backflow valve device disposed at a first end of the body and a separable cover member disposed at a second end of the body.

[0055] In this way, for inclined or vertical boreholes and at the bottom of the borehole above the borehole inlet, the channel will be filled with explosive material already loaded into the borehole above the main body, as the explosive material flows downward due to gravity through the opened, separable cover member and further downward into the channel, and the explosive material is blocked from flowing beyond the channel by the anti-backflow valve.

[0056] By also collecting explosive materials in the channel, the detonator units located in the detonator unit compartment of the adjacent channel will be close to the explosive materials, thereby promoting safe blasting.

[0057] Alternatively, a stop device is arranged at a predetermined distance between the body and the borehole inlet.

[0058] Alternatively, the stop device includes a conduit extending from the body to the stop, which is configured to abut against the edge of the borehole inlet.

[0059] Alternatively, the stop may have a diameter larger than the borehole diameter and may include a rod that is prevented from passing through the borehole inlet.

[0060] Alternatively, the piping system may include two lines extending parallel to the body to the pole.

[0061] Alternatively, the rod is positioned laterally above the borehole inlet.

[0062] In this way, the main body can be positioned at a predetermined location in the borehole above the borehole inlet.

[0063] Alternatively, the body includes a circumferential wall extending along an extension of the body's centerline.

[0064] Alternatively, the lower portion of the body includes a first end, and the upper portion of the body includes a second end.

[0065] Alternatively, the lower portion includes a first end wall having an extension perpendicular to the centerline of the body.

[0066] Alternatively, the upper portion includes a second end wall having an extension perpendicular to the centerline of the body.

[0067] Alternatively, the destructible wall portion of the separable cover member is formed in a section of the second end wall of the main body.

[0068] Alternatively, the destructible wall portion of the separable cover member exhibits such high structural strength that the tip of the filling hose nozzle of the filling hose does not damage the destructible wall portion during the pushing process; however, the destructible wall portion is structurally strong enough that the tip of the filling hose nozzle damages the destructible wall portion when the body is stopped by the stop and the filling hose is in motion.

[0069] Alternatively, the movement of the filling hose stops once the nozzle of the filling hose has passed through the section of the destructible wall.

[0070] Alternatively, the loading hose nozzle is configured to discharge explosive material into a borehole extending above the body after the destructible wall portion of the separable cover member has been destroyed by means of the loading hose nozzle.

[0071] Alternatively, the filling hose nozzle is removed from the destructible wall portion of the separable cover member and further removed from the anti-backflow valve, thereby moving the filling hose downward.

[0072] Alternatively, the anti-backflow valve is configured to provide closure of the valve's flap component after the filling hose nozzle has been removed from the anti-backflow valve.

[0073] Alternatively, anti-backflow valves include disc valves.

[0074] Alternatively, the valve is spring-biased to provide the closure, thereby preventing the explosive material above the anti-backflow valve from flowing further downward.

[0075] Alternatively, the valve is hinged to the channel wall and can be opened in the direction toward the second end of the body.

[0076] Alternatively, the engagement force of the elastic flange generates sufficient frictional resistance to the movement of the body relative to the borehole, due to gravity and the pressure of the explosive material as well as water pressure, which would otherwise dominate, and thus keeps the explosive material in the borehole while water can flow through the open space of the elastic member.

[0077] This objective, or at least one of the objectives, has been achieved by a detonator support device configured to support a detonator unit and configured to load explosive material in a borehole. The detonator support device includes a body having a channel oriented along the centerline of the body, and includes an openable cover device covering the channel, the openable cover device being configured to contact a moving loading hose for pushing the body and opening the openable cover according to claim 1.

[0078] This objective, or at least one of the stated objectives, has been achieved by means of a method for loading explosive material into a borehole using a blasting system comprising: a detonator support configured to be inserted into the borehole by means of a loading hose; a body of the detonator support including a channel oriented along a centerline of the body extending along a borehole extension during the loading of the explosive material; and an openable cover device covering the channel, configured to contact the moving loading hose for pushing the body along the borehole. In this method, a loading hose in motion is configured to open an openable cover device while a stop device stops the main body; the method includes the following steps: providing a detonator support device connected to the stop device; preparing a detonator unit to be connected to a detonating wire component; installing the detonator unit to the detonator support device; inserting the detonator support device into a borehole; pushing the detonator support device through the loading hose; stopping the detonator support device by means of the stop device; opening the openable cover device by further movement of the loading hose; loading explosive material into the borehole; and removing the loading hose.

[0079] Alternatively, in the opening step, the openable cover device is configured to be separated or broken by means of the nozzle of the loading hose in motion.

[0080] Alternatively, the step of removing the filling hose includes taking the filling hose out of the openable cap device.

[0081] Alternatively, before the step of pushing the detonator support device, the filling hose is inserted into and passes through the anti-backflow valve and then abuts against the separable cover member of the openable cover device to provide the push.

[0082] Alternatively, the steps of stopping the detonator support device and opening the openable cover device are performed simultaneously, wherein the separable cover component is separated or destroyed by a filling hose.

[0083] Alternatively, the method includes a step defined as stopping the moving filling hose.

[0084] Alternatively, the method includes a step defined as discharging explosive material from a filling hose nozzle into a borehole above the body of the detonator support.

[0085] Alternatively, the method includes steps defined to stop the release of explosive material.

[0086] Alternatively, the method includes a step defined as removing the filling hose from the borehole.

[0087] Alternatively, the method includes a step defined to stop the method.

[0088] The borehole can be defined as a wet borehole having a borehole wall partially or completely covered by a water film. The thickness of the water film can be from 0.1 mm to 1.1 mm or greater.

[0089] The water film can come from drilling boreholes (adding water or other cooling fluids to cool the boreholes) or groundwater.

[0090] The water film may also include any type of cooling fluid used to cool the drill bit.

[0091] This objective, or at least one of the objectives, has been achieved by autonomous or semi-autonomous explosive material loading vehicles.

[0092] This objective, or at least one of the objectives, has been achieved through data media and data media products. Attached Figure Description

[0093] The invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0094] Figures 1a to 1d The diagram illustrates a blasting system based on the first example;

[0095] Figure 2 The detonator support device of the blasting system according to the second example is illustrated in a side view.

[0096] Figure 3 The diagram above illustrates the detonator support device of the blasting system according to the third example;

[0097] Figure 4 The detonator support device of the blasting system according to the fourth example is illustrated in a side view.

[0098] Figure 5 The diagram above illustrates the detonator support device of the blasting system according to the fifth example;

[0099] Figure 6 The detonator support device of the blasting system according to the sixth example is illustrated in a side view.

[0100] Figure 7 The diagram above illustrates the detonator support device of the blasting system according to the seventh example;

[0101] Figure 8 The detonator support device of the blasting system according to the eighth example is illustrated in a side view.

[0102] Figures 9a to 9b The detonator support device of the blasting system according to the ninth example is illustrated in a side view.

[0103] Figure 10 The illustration shows a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for loading explosive material into a borehole;

[0104] Figure 11 The illustration shows a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for loading explosive material into a borehole;

[0105] Figure 12 The illustration shows an explosive material loading vehicle configured to perform an exemplary method of loading explosive material in a borehole;

[0106] Figure 13 The illustration shows a control circuit suitable for operating an explosive material loading vehicle configured to perform an exemplary method of loading explosive material in a borehole.

[0107] Figure 14a An exemplary detonator support for a blasting system is illustrated in a perspective view; and

[0108] Figure 14b The illustration shows a stackable detonator support device. Detailed Implementation

[0109] In the following description, exemplary embodiments of the invention will be illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some less important details may be omitted for clarity and to facilitate understanding of the invention.

[0110] Figures 1a to 1d The illustration shows a blasting system 1 configured according to a first example for loading explosive material into a borehole 3. The blasting system 1 includes a detonator support 5 configured to be inserted into the borehole 3 via a loading hose 7. The body 9 of the detonator support 5 includes a channel (not shown) oriented along a centerline CL of the body, which extends along a borehole extension during the loading of the explosive material. A fissure 11 in the rock delivers groundwater to the borehole 3. An openable cover (not shown) covering the channel is configured to contact the moving loading hose 7 for pushing the body 9 along the borehole 3. The moving loading hose 7 is configured to open the openable cover device while a stop device 13 stops the body 9, as... Figure 1bAs shown in the diagram. The detonator unit compartment (not shown) is located adjacent to the passage in the main body 9 and is configured to support the detonator unit 15. The stop device 13 has a conduit assembly 17 arranged between the main body 9 and the stop rod 18, which is configured to abut against the borehole inlet 19. Therefore, the operator (not shown) can easily set the length of the conduit assembly 17 corresponding to the length L of the unfilled portion of the borehole 3 based on the filling plan. The operator can simply tie a knot at the conduit assembly 17 to indicate the appropriate length L. Preferably, the stop rod 18 (e.g., a wooden stick) can be 2 to 4 times longer than the diameter of the borehole 3. The filling hose nozzle 21 of the filling hose 7 discharges the explosive material 23 into the borehole 3 above the main body 9 by means of a pump 25. Furthermore, as Figure 1c As seen in the diagram, the channel (not shown) of the main body 9 will be filled with explosive material 23 that has been loaded into the borehole above the main body 9, as the explosive material flows downwards due to gravity through the openable cover (not shown) and further downwards into the channel of the main body 9. The explosive material 23 is prevented from flowing out of the channel by means of an anti-backflow valve (not shown). Figure 1d As shown, the loading hose 7 has been completely removed from the borehole 3, and the main body 9 of the blasting system 1 holds the explosive material 23 above the main body 9 and in contact with the detonator unit 5. The detonator unit 15 is connected to the controller 27.

[0111] Figure 2 A detonator support 5 according to a second example of a blasting system is illustrated in a side view. The body 9 of the blasting system includes the detonator support 5, which is configured to be inserted into a borehole (not shown) by means of a loading hose (not shown). The body 9 of the detonator support 5 includes a channel 8 oriented along the body centerline CL, which extends along a borehole extension during the loading of the explosive material. A separable cap 14 covering the channel 8 is configured to contact the moving loading hose for pushing the body 9 along the borehole.

[0112] Alternatively, the anti-backflow valve 16 is positioned at the first end 31' of the body 9 and is bent such that the valve disc 20 in the open position extends along the curvature of the channel 8, which means that the filling hose can optimally fill the space within the channel 8, thereby providing a compact detonator support 5.

[0113] The loading hose in motion is configured to open the separable cover 14 of the upper opening located at the second end 31” of the main body 9, while the stop device 13 stops the main body (e.g., Figure 1b (As shown in the diagram). The detonator unit compartment 33 is located adjacent to the passage 8 in the main body 9 and is configured to support the detonator unit 15.

[0114] The anti-backflow valve 16 is configured to prevent explosive material (not shown) discharged from the filling hose from passing through the channel 8 and below the channel when the filling hose has been removed from the upper opening 10 and removed from the anti-backflow valve 16.

[0115] The anti-backflow valve 16 is hinged around the hinge 35 and is spring-biased to the closed state by means of the spring 37.

[0116] The body 9 includes a plurality of resilient flanges 39 extending circumferentially around the body 9, and the plurality of resilient members are arranged on the outer peripheral surface 41 of the body 9 and around the central axis CL of the body. The resilient flanges 39 extend discontinuously around the body 9 and are adapted to engage the borehole wall of a drilled hole and are biased to securely engage with the borehole wall. The resilient flanges 39 are made of a flexible material and are toothed, wherein an open space 43 is provided between the resilient flanges.

[0117] In this way, water is allowed to pass through the exterior of the body 9, thus through the space between the borehole wall and the outer peripheral surface 41 of the body 9, and through the open space 43. This avoids the accumulation of high water pressure above the body 9, which would otherwise force the body 9 out of the borehole and release explosive material from the borehole into the bottom plate of the stone gate (not shown). Therefore, by not completely sealing the borehole with the body 9, the blasting system allows groundwater and residual borehole cooling water to drain.

[0118] The upper part of the main body can have thinner walls than the lower part of the main body 9 to increase the structural strength of the main body 9 and optimize the design of the separable cover 14 of the upper opening of the second end 31".

[0119] The toothed elastic flange 39 can be formed as an anchoring wing with a notch 45 configured to guide and protect the impact tube 44 and / or detonating wire 44 extending from the detonator unit 15 and entering the stone gate through the borehole.

[0120] Figure 3 The diagram above illustrates the detonator support 5 of a blasting system according to the third example. The main body 9 includes a channel 8 oriented along the body's centerline. The anti-backflow valve flap 20 of the check valve 16 is positioned at a first end of the main body 9. The anti-backflow valve flap 20 is spring-biased to a closed position by means of a spring 37.

[0121] Alternatively, the moving loading hose (not shown) is configured to open the anti-backflow valve 20 and subsequently open the separable cap 14 located at the second end of the body 9, while a stop device (not shown) stops the body 9 (as shown). Figure 1b The filling hose nozzle (not shown) is further pushed, and the filling hose nozzle penetrates and breaks the separable cover 14 to directly face the borehole (above the body 9) filled with explosive material.

[0122] The detonator unit compartment 33 is located adjacent to the passage 8 in the main body 9 and is configured to support the detonator unit 15.

[0123] The body 9 includes a resilient flange 39 extending circumferentially around the body 9, and the resilient flange 39 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface 41 of the body 9 and around the central axis of the body. The resilient flange 39 extends discontinuously around the body 9 and is adapted to engage the borehole wall of the drilled hole and is biased to securely engage with the borehole wall. The resilient flange is made of a flexible material and is toothed, wherein there is an open space 43 between the resilient flanges.

[0124] Figure 4 The detonator support 5 of the blasting system according to the fourth example is illustrated in a side view. The main body 9 of the detonator support includes a resilient flange device with three rows of teeth. This example uses an anti-backflow valve divided into two closable segments 20', 20" Figure 4 The diagram shows the location of explosive material to be discharged from the filling hose nozzle 21 of the filling hose 7. The upper portion 46 of the filling hose 7 is accommodated in the channel 8 of the body 9. The toothed elastic flange extends outward at an angle of 30 to 70 degrees, preferably 45 to 60 degrees, relative to the centerline of the body and slopes downward toward the first end 31' of the body 9.

[0125] Figure 5 The diagram above illustrates the detonator support 5 of the blasting system according to the fifth example. A set of mesh 61 or other suitable filters is arranged in the open space 43 of the resilient flange 39 to capture gravel, sand, and other particles to prevent them from falling onto the stone gate base. Water primarily passes through the open space 43 of the resilient flange 39.

[0126] Figure 6 A side view illustrates a detonator support 5 according to the sixth example of a blasting system. The body 9 of the detonator support 5 includes upper and lower corrugated flexible rubber braids or edges 39' configured to engage with the borehole wall. A channel 8 in the body 9 is formed to receive a filling hose nozzle. A pair of tubes are disposed adjacent to the borehole wall for releasing water pressure in the filled borehole. Alternatively, the braid or edge 39' may have holes.

[0127] Figure 7 The diagram above illustrates a detonator support 5 according to the seventh example of a blasting system. The detonator support 5 has two resilient flanges 39, each having a plurality of holes 62 arranged to reduce water pressure.

[0128] Figure 8 The detonator support 5 of the blasting system according to the eighth example is illustrated in a side view. Figure 8The diagram shows water w flowing along the borehole wall 4 of the borehole 3. As shown, the body 9 is engaged to the borehole wall 4 by means of an elastic flange 39 that contacts the borehole wall 4. The engagement force of the elastic flange 39 generates sufficient frictional resistance to the movement of the body 9 relative to the borehole, which would otherwise be dominated by gravity and the pressure of the explosive material 23, as well as water pressure, and thus retains the explosive material 23 in the borehole 3 while water can flow through the open space 43 of the elastic flange.

[0129] Figures 9a to 9b The detonator support 5 of the blasting system according to the ninth example is illustrated in a side view. Figure 9a As shown, the loading hose nozzle 21 pushes the body upward in the borehole by abutting the free end of the nozzle against an openable cap L. The openable cap L can be closed by means of a sufficient amount of biasing force to allow the push. When the pipeline assembly stops the movement of the body, the nozzle opens the cap L. The detonator unit 15 is positioned on the upper side of the body, so that good contact between the detonator unit and the explosive material is achieved. Figure 9b As shown, the filling hose nozzle has been removed, the openable cover L has been closed by means of the biasing force, and the explosive material 23 is prevented from flowing downward.

[0130] Figure 10 The diagram illustrates a flowchart of an exemplary method for loading explosive material into a borehole using a blasting system 1. The blasting system includes a detonator support configured to be inserted into the borehole via a loading hose. The body of the detonator support includes a channel oriented along a centerline of the body that extends along a borehole extension during the loading of the explosive material. An openable cover covering the channel is configured to contact the moving loading hose for pushing the body along the borehole. The moving loading hose is configured to open the openable cover while a stop mechanism stops the body, for example, as... Figure 1b As shown in the image.

[0131] The method includes a first step 101 to begin the method. A second step 102 illustrates the execution of the method. A third step 103 includes stopping the method.

[0132] The second step 102 may include: providing a detonator support device connected to a stop device; preparing a detonator unit to be connected to a detonating wire component; installing the detonator unit to the detonator support device; inserting the detonator support device into the borehole; pushing the detonator support device through a loading hose; stopping the detonator support device by means of a stop device; opening an openable cover device by further movement of the loading hose; loading explosive material into the borehole; and removing the loading hose.

[0133] Figure 11The diagram illustrates a flowchart of an exemplary method for loading explosive material into a borehole using a blasting system. The method includes a first step 111 to begin the method. A second step 112 includes an opening step configured to separate or break a separable cover member by means of a loading hose nozzle in motion. A third step 113 includes a step of removing the loading hose, which includes removing the loading hose from the separable cover assembly. A fourth step 114 includes a step of allowing the loading hose to enter and pass through an anti-backflow valve and subsequently abut against the separable cover member of the separable cover assembly to provide the push, prior to the step of pushing the detonator support. A fifth step 115 includes simultaneously performing a step of stopping the detonator support assembly and a step of opening the separable cover assembly, wherein the separable cover member is separated or broken by further upward movement of the loading hose (i.e., the loading hose nozzle). A sixth step 116 includes stopping the movement of the loading hose. A seventh step 117 includes discharging explosive material from the loading hose nozzle into the borehole above the body of the detonator support assembly. Step 8, 118, includes stopping the discharge of explosive material. Step 9, 119, includes removing the loading hose from the borehole. Step 10, 120, includes stopping the method.

[0134] Alternatively, the operating procedure can be as follows: the operator places the detonator unit in a predetermined position in the main body and sets a predetermined length for the conduit assembly.

[0135] The operator can then position the main body onto the filling hose nozzle of the filling hose.

[0136] Then, the pipeline assembly is tensioned, and because the pipeline assembly is stronger than the separable cover member, when the body is pushed upward, the filling hose nozzle comes into contact with the separable cover member, and the filling hose nozzle will separate from or remove the separable cover member from the body.

[0137] The filling hose nozzle preferably moves further upward into the borehole, whereby the separable cap component breaks into several smaller parts. These parts are preferably small enough that they do not cause any blockage or clogging during the filling process.

[0138] The inventors of this disclosure utilize the fact that water pressure applied from above to the explosive material tends to form a water flow that runs along the borehole wall.

[0139] Alternatively, the elastic member arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the body includes at least one open space through which water flowing along the borehole wall will be discharged.

[0140] This method ensures that the main body will not be pushed out of the borehole.

[0141] Furthermore, as the water flows along the borehole wall, the explosive material also adheres further to the borehole wall. This adhesion carries away some of the load from the material that is attached to the borehole wall.

[0142] The explosive material near the detonator support is under pressure due to its own weight. Because of its oil content, the explosive is hydrophobic, and water will flow towards the point of lowest pressure, which is located in at least one open space of the elastic member of the detonator support.

[0143] Figure 12 The illustration shows an explosive material loading vehicle 77 configured to perform an exemplary method of loading explosive material into a borehole 3. The explosive material loading vehicle 77 includes a robotic arm 78 and a loading hose feeder 79, which are coupled to a control circuitry (not shown, labeled 50, see [reference]) of the explosive material loading vehicle 77. Figure 13 The control circuitry is configured to control one or more exemplary methods as disclosed herein. The control circuitry includes a data medium configured to store a data program configured to control the blasting system 1 of the explosive material loading vehicle 77. The data medium includes program code stored on the data medium, which can be read from the control circuitry for performing method steps.

[0144] Figure 13 The illustration shows a vehicle suitable for operating explosive material loading (e.g.) Figure 12 The control circuit 50 (shown in the diagram) of the explosive material loading vehicle is configured to perform an exemplary method of loading explosive material into a borehole. The control circuit 50 is coupled to an actuator device (not shown) of a robotic arm (not shown) of the explosive material loading vehicle. The control circuit 50 is configured to perform the method of loading explosive material into a borehole by means of a blasting system comprising: a detonator support device configured to be inserted into the borehole by means of a loading hose; a body of the detonator support device including a channel oriented along a centerline of the body that extends along a borehole extension during the explosive material loading; and an openable cover device covering the channel, the openable cover device configured to contact the moving loading hose for pushing the body along the borehole, wherein the moving loading hose is configured to open the openable cover device while a stop device stops the body. The method includes: providing the detonator support device coupled to the stop device and preparing a detonator unit to be coupled to a detonating wire component. The method further includes: installing the detonator unit to the detonator support device and subsequently inserting the detonator support device into the borehole. The method includes: pushing the detonator support device via a loading hose, stopping the detonator support device by means of a stop device; opening an openable cover device by further movement of the loading hose; loading explosive material into the borehole; and removing the loading hose.

[0145] The control circuit 50 can also be configured to operate an explosive material loading vehicle in a mine shaft (not shown).

[0146] The control circuit 50 may include a computer and a non-volatile memory NVM 1320, which is a computer memory that can retain stored information even when the computer is not powered.

[0147] The control circuit 50 also includes a processing unit 1310 and a read / write memory 1350. The NVM 1320 includes a first memory unit 1330. The first memory unit 1330 stores a computer program (which can be any type of computer program applicable to any operational data) for controlling the functions of the control circuit 5. Furthermore, the control circuit 50 includes a bus controller (not shown) and a serial communication unit (not shown) providing a physical interface through which information is transmitted separately in both directions.

[0148] The control circuit 50 may include any suitable type of I / O module (not shown) providing input / output signal transmission, an A / D converter (not shown) for converting continuously changing signals from sensor devices (not shown) of the control circuit 50, and the control circuit 50 is configured to determine the actual position of the robotic arm and / or the loading hose. The control circuit 50 is configured to define the actual position of the robotic arm and the operation of the explosive material loading vehicle into binary code suitable for a computer based on received control signals and other operational data.

[0149] The control circuit 50 also includes an input / output unit (not shown) for adapting to time and date. The control circuit 50 includes an event counter (not shown) for counting the number of event multiples that occur by independent events during the operation of the explosive material loading vehicle.

[0150] In addition, the control circuit 50 includes an interrupt unit (not shown) associated with a computer for providing multitasking capabilities and real-time calculations for semi-automatic and / or autonomously operated explosive material loading vehicles. The NVM 1320 also includes a second memory unit 1340 for external sensor checks of the sensor array.

[0151] The data medium used to store program P may include program routines for automatically adjusting the operation of the explosive material loading vehicle (not shown) based on the operation data of the cooperating explosive material loading vehicle.

[0152] The data medium for storing program P includes program code stored on the medium that can be read on a computer to cause control circuit 50 to perform the methods and / or method steps described herein.

[0153] The program P can also be stored in a separate memory 1360 and / or read / write memory 1350. In this embodiment, the program P is stored in an executable or compressed data format.

[0154] It should be understood that when the processing unit 1310 is described as performing a specific function, it means that the processing unit 1310 can execute a specific part of a program stored in a separate memory 1360 or a specific part of a program stored in read / write memory 1350.

[0155] The processing unit 1310 is associated with a data port 999 for communication via a first data bus 1315, which can be connected to the robotic arm and the loading hose feeder 79 for performing the method steps.

[0156] Non-volatile memory (NVM) 1320 is adapted to communicate with processing unit 1310 via a second data bus 1312. A separate memory 1360 is adapted to communicate with processing unit 1310 via a third data bus 1311. Read / write memory 1350 is adapted to communicate with processing unit 1310 via a fourth data bus 1314. After the received data is temporarily stored, processing unit 1310 is ready to execute program code according to the described method.

[0157] Preferably, the signal (received by data port 999) includes information about the operational status of the explosive material loading vehicle. The signal received at data port 999 can be used by control circuitry 50 for controlling and monitoring the automatic calibration of sensor device 1.

[0158] Information and data can be manually fed to the control circuitry by the operator via a suitable communication device, such as a computer monitor or touch screen.

[0159] This method can also be partially executed by the control circuit 50 via the processing unit 1310, which runs a program P stored in a separate memory 1360 or read / write memory 1350. When the control circuit 50 runs program P, the appropriate method steps disclosed herein are performed.

[0160] Alternatively, the moving loading hose is configured to open the openable cover device, while the robotic arm's stop device (not shown) stops the main body.

[0161] Figure 14aAn exemplary detonator support 5 of a blasting system is illustrated in a three-dimensional view.

[0162] The body 9 of the detonator support 5 includes a resilient flange 39F extending circumferentially around the body 9, and the resilient flange 39F is arranged to the outer peripheral surface 41 of the body 9 and around the central axis CL of the body. A detonator unit compartment 33 is provided in the body 9 adjacent to the sidewall of the detonator support 5. The body 9 of the detonator support 5 includes a resilient flange assembly having three rows of resilient flanges 39F. Each resilient flange 39F extends circumferentially around the body 9, is arranged to the outer peripheral surface 41 of the body 9, and around the central axis CL of the body. The resilient flanges 39F extend continuously around the body 9 and are adapted to engage the borehole wall (not shown) of a drilled hole (not shown). The resilient flanges 39F are biased toward the borehole wall to hold the detonator support 5 in a rigid position within the borehole.

[0163] Because the spring-biased flange 39F is biased toward the borehole wall, the water pressure accumulated above the body 9 is insufficient to move the detonator support 5 in the borehole. The spring-biased flange 39F holds the body 9 in place in the borehole, and the water pressure does not force the body 9 out of the borehole, thus eliminating the risk of explosive material being released from the borehole.

[0164] The elastic flange 39F generates sufficient frictional resistance between the main body and the borehole. In this way, the detonator support 5 is prevented from "popping" out of the borehole due to gravity and the weight / pressure of the explosive material and water.

[0165] The flexible flange 39F is made of a flexible material (such as plastic).

[0166] Alternatively, each resilient flange 39F may include at least one slot 40F (dashed line). Such a set of slots 40F can be used to guide a detonating wire (not shown) to the outside of the body 9.

[0167] Figure 14b The illustration shows detonator supports 5 stacked on top of each other. The number of stacked detonator supports 5 may depend on the desired resistance of the stack for holding it in a position protected from water and explosive materials. Detonator units may be located at each end of the stack or in each detonator support. The detonator units may be connected to each other via a detonating wire (not shown).

[0168] The upper portion of the detonator support 5 (during stacked use) may include a protrusion or a recess, and the lower portion of the detonator support 5 may include a recess or a protrusion, the recess and the protrusion cooperating with each other to connect adjacent detonator supports 5 to each other.

[0169] This invention is not limited in any way to the preferred embodiments described above, but many possible modifications or combinations of the embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the basic concept of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A blasting system (1) configured for loading explosive material into a borehole (3); said system (1) comprising: - Detonator support device (5), which is configured to be inserted into the borehole (3) by means of a filling hose (7); - The body (9) of the detonator support device (5), the body (9) including a channel (8) oriented along the body centerline (CL), the channel (8) extending along the borehole extension during the loading of the explosive material; characterized in that, - The detonator support device (5) includes an openable cover device (14, L) covering the channel (8), the openable cover device (14, L) being configured to contact the moving filling hose (7) for pushing the body (9) along the borehole (3). - A stop device (13), which is connected to the detonator support device (5); and - The loading hose (7) in motion is configured to open the openable cover device (14), while the stop device (13) stops the main body (9).

2. The blasting system (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The openable cover device (14, L) is configured to open through the free end of the filling hose nozzle (21) of the filling hose (7) in motion, while the body (9) is configured to stop at a predetermined distance from the borehole inlet of the borehole (3).

3. The blasting system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The openable cover device also includes a backflow prevention valve device (16) configured to prevent explosive material (23) discharged from the filling hose (7) from flowing back into and / or through the channel (8) when the filling hose (7) has been removed from the channel (8).

4. The blasting system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, A detonator unit compartment (33) is provided in the main body (9) adjacent to the channel (8), and the detonator unit compartment (33) is configured to support the detonator unit (15).

5. The blasting system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The body (9) includes elastic members (39, 39') extending circumferentially around the body (9), and the elastic members (39, 39') are arranged on the outer peripheral surface (41) of the body (9) and around the center line (CL) of the body.

6. The blasting system (1) according to claim 5, wherein, The elastic member (39, 39') includes at least one open space (43) configured to allow water to pass through.

7. A detonator support device (5), the detonator support device (5) being configured to support a detonator unit (15) and to be configured to load explosive material in a borehole (3), the detonator support device (5) comprising a body (9) having a channel (8) oriented along a body centerline (CL), and comprising an openable cover device (14, L) covering the channel (8) in a closed state; characterized in that, - The openable cover device (14, L) is configured to contact the moving filling hose (7) for pushing the body (9). - A stop device (13), which is connected to the detonator support device (5); and - The loading hose (7) in motion is configured to open the openable cover device (14, L), while the stop device (13) stops the main body (9).

8. A method for loading explosive material into a borehole (3) using a blasting system (1), said blasting system (1) comprising: A detonator support device (5) is configured to be inserted into the borehole (3) by means of a filling hose (7); The detonator support device (5) comprises a body (9) including a channel (8) oriented along a body centerline (CL) extending along a borehole extension during the loading of the explosive material; an openable cover device (14, L) covering the channel (8), the openable cover device (14, L) being configured to contact the moving loading hose (7) for pushing the body (9) along the borehole (3), wherein the moving loading hose (7) is configured to open the openable cover device (14, L) while a stop device (13) stops the body (9); the method includes the following steps: - Provide the detonator support device (5) connected to the stop device (13); - Prepare the detonator unit (15) to be connected to the detonating wire component (44); - Install the detonator unit (15) onto the detonator support device (5); - Insert the detonator support device (5) into the borehole (3); - The detonator support device (5) is pushed through the filling hose (7); - The detonator support device (5) is stopped by means of the stop device (13); - The openable cover device (14, L) is opened by further movement of the filling hose (7); - The explosive material (23) is loaded into the borehole (3); and - Remove the filling hose (7).

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, In the opening step, the openable cover device (14) is configured to be separated or broken by means of the filling hose nozzle (21) of the moving filling hose (7).

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, The step of removing the filling hose (7) includes taking the filling hose (7) out of the openable cap device (14, L).

11. The method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, Prior to the step of pushing the detonator support device (5), the filling hose (7) is brought into and through the anti-backflow valve (16) and then abuts against the separable cover member of the openable cover device (14) to provide the push.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The steps of stopping the detonator support device (5) and opening the openable cover device are performed simultaneously, wherein the separable cover member is separated or destroyed by the filling hose (7).

13. An autonomous or semi-automatic explosive material loading vehicle (77), the explosive material loading vehicle (77) comprising a robotic arm (78) and a loading hose feeder (79), the robotic arm (78) and the loading hose feeder (79) being connected to a control circuit (50) of the explosive material loading vehicle (77), wherein, The control circuit (50) is connected to the actuator device of the robotic arm (78) and is configured to perform the method of loading the explosive material in the borehole (3) by means of the blasting system (1) according to claim 1. - The control circuit (50) includes an I / O module for providing input / output signal transmission, an A / D converter for converting continuously changing signals from the sensor device of the control circuit (50), and the control circuit (50) is configured to determine the actual positions of the robotic arm (78) and the loading hose (7). - The control circuit (50) is further configured to define the actual position of the robotic arm (78) and the operation of the explosive material loading vehicle (77) into binary code suitable for a computer based on received control signals and other operational data; and the control circuit (50) is configured to control the method according to any one of claims 8 to 12.

14. A data medium configured to store a program (P) for controlling an explosive material loading vehicle (77) according to claim 13 to perform the method according to claim 8 in a blasting system (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The data medium includes program code stored on the data medium, the program code being readable on the control circuit (50) for performing the steps of the method according to any one of claims 8 to 12.

15. A data medium product comprising program code stored on the data medium, wherein when the data medium according to claim 14 is operated on a control circuit (50), the program code is readable on the control circuit (50) for performing method steps according to any one of claims 8 to 12.

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