System and method for remotely detonating wireless electronic detonator

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of wireless detonating devices. The system for remotely detonating the wireless electronic detonator comprises a detonator unit which is configured to generate and send a detonating flow control instruction sequence, receive state information fed back by the wireless electronic detonator unit, judge a flow execution result and generate a record; the signal converter unit is connected with the exploder unit through a LoRa communication protocol, and is configured to convert an instruction sent by the exploder unit into a very low frequency signal for broadcasting according to the instruction, receive the very low frequency signal sent by the wireless electronic detonator unit, convert the very low frequency signal into a LoRa signal and send the LoRa signal back to the exploder unit; and the wireless electronic detonator unit is connected with the signal converter unit through a very low frequency communication protocol and is configured to receive and execute the instruction broadcasted by the signal converter unit, respond to the instruction, monitor the state of the wireless electronic detonator unit and feed back the execution result and the state information of the wireless electronic detonator unit to the signal converter unit through a very low frequency signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of wireless detonation device technology, and more specifically, to a system and method for remotely detonating a wireless electronic detonator. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, wired initiation systems are commonly used in industrial blasting operations. In this method, workers must connect all detonators to the initiator sequentially using copper cables. This includes connecting the detonator leads to branch lines, then the branch lines to the main line, and finally connecting the main line to the initiator. Only after all physical wiring is completed can the initiator be operated to perform the detonator networking, charging, and detonation processes.

[0003] However, this wired detonation method has the following significant drawbacks: Detonation networks are highly susceptible to environmental factors, leading to a high risk of malfunction. Blasting sites are often complex environments such as tunnels, mines, and underground operations, frequently encountering unfavorable conditions like water accumulation and humidity. Moisture and impurities can easily cause leakage or short circuits between cables, resulting in communication interruptions between the detonator and electronic detonator, and consequently, network failures. Once a malfunction occurs, significant manpower and time are required for troubleshooting, severely impacting construction efficiency and increasing operating costs.

[0004] The detonation distance and the number of detonators are significantly limited. Due to the inherent resistance of the cable, as the detonation distance increases or the number of detonators increases, the energy loss in the line intensifies, which may lead to attenuation of the communication signal at the end detonator and insufficient charging voltage, affecting the reliability of detonation. Therefore, in actual construction, the scale and distance of a single detonation must be strictly limited, restricting operational flexibility.

[0005] Cascaded detonation systems are complex in structure, have low reliability, and are difficult to troubleshoot. To meet the needs of large-scale blasting, multiple detonators are often cascaded together. While this method can be scaled up, it also introduces more equipment and connection nodes, significantly increasing system complexity and potential failure points. When anomalies occur, fault location is difficult, and the troubleshooting process is cumbersome, placing greater pressure on construction progress and personnel allocation.

[0006] In view of this, there is an urgent need to provide a system and method for remotely detonating wireless electronic detonators to solve the above-mentioned technical problems. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The main objective of this application is to provide a system and method for remotely initiating wireless electronic detonators, in order to solve the problems existing in the prior art, which generally uses wired initiation systems.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, a first aspect of this application proposes a system for remotely detonating a wireless electronic detonator, comprising: The detonator unit is configured as follows: Generate and issue a sequence of detonation process control commands, receive status information fed back by the wireless electronic detonator unit, determine the process execution result and generate a record, wherein the command sequence includes at least a networking command, a charging command and a detonation command; The signal converter unit, connected to the detonator unit via the LoRa communication protocol, is configured as follows: According to the instructions issued by the detonator unit, it is converted into a very low frequency signal for broadcasting, and the very low frequency signal sent by the wireless electronic detonator unit is received, converted into a LoRa signal and sent back to the detonator unit. The wireless electronic detonator unit, connected to the signal converter unit via a very low frequency communication protocol, is configured as follows: It receives and executes instructions broadcast by the signal converter unit, responds to instructions, monitors its own status, and feeds back the execution results and its own status information to the signal converter unit via a very low frequency signal.

[0009] In some possible implementations, the detonator unit is further configured as follows: Import and / or export the registration data of the wireless electronic detonator unit, and based on the registration data of the wireless electronic detonator unit, send the networking command, charging command and detonation command through the LoRa communication module, and receive the networking result and charging status information from the wireless electronic detonator unit; Based on the network configuration results, the charging status information, and the detonation confirmation, a detonation operation record is generated.

[0010] In some possible implementations, the detonator unit is also configured as follows: During the execution of the networking command or charging command, if the received status information indicates an abnormality or if the response from the wireless electronic detonator unit is not received within a preset time, an abnormal status is marked and processed.

[0011] In some implementable embodiments, the signal converter unit is further configured to: Achieve bidirectional conversion between LoRa communication protocol and very low frequency communication protocol.

[0012] In some implementable embodiments, the wireless electronic detonator unit is further configured as follows: The voltage and current status inside the wireless electronic detonator unit are monitored in real time, and the status information including the voltage and current status is fed back to the detonator unit through the signal converter unit.

[0013] In some implementable embodiments, the wireless electronic detonator unit is further configured as follows: It receives and relays communication signals from other wireless electronic detonator units to form a mesh communication network.

[0014] In some possible implementations, the detonator unit is further configured as follows: During the networking process, a time synchronization signal is sent to each of the wireless electronic detonator units, and the internal clocks of each of the wireless electronic detonator units are synchronized; the detonation command includes a detonation time based on the synchronized clock; The wireless electronic detonator unit is further configured to: Detonation is performed when the internal clock reaches the detonation time.

[0015] In some possible implementations, the signal converter unit is located on a mobile device.

[0016] In some feasible implementations, LoRa communication between the detonator unit and the signal converter unit, and / or very low frequency communication between the signal converter unit and the wireless electronic detonator unit, employs a frequency hopping communication mechanism.

[0017] Secondly, this application provides a method for remotely initiating a wireless electronic detonator, applied to the aforementioned system for remotely initiating a wireless electronic detonator, comprising: The detonator unit generates and issues a sequence of detonation process control commands, wherein the command sequence includes at least a networking command, a charging command, and a detonation command; The signal converter unit receives instructions from the detonator unit via LoRa communication and converts them into very low frequency signals for broadcasting. The wireless electronic detonator unit receives and executes instructions broadcast by the signal converter unit, and monitors its own status. The wireless electronic detonator unit transmits the command execution result and its own status information to the signal converter unit via a very low frequency signal. The very low frequency signal from the wireless electronic detonator unit is converted into a LoRa signal using a signal converter unit and then transmitted back to the detonator unit. The detonator unit receives the status information to determine the process execution result and generate a record.

[0018] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application may include the following beneficial effects: In this application, a system for remotely initiating a wireless electronic detonator includes an initiator unit configured to: generate and issue a sequence of initiation process control commands, receive status information fed back by the wireless electronic detonator unit to determine the process execution result and generate a record, wherein the command sequence includes at least a networking command, a charging command, and an initiation command; and a signal converter unit connected to the initiator unit via a LoRa communication protocol, configured to: convert the commands issued by the initiator unit into very low frequency (VLF) signals for broadcast, and receive VLF signals sent by the wireless electronic detonator unit, convert them into LoRa signals, and transmit them back to the initiator unit. The wireless electronic detonator unit connected to the signal converter unit via a VLF communication protocol is configured to: receive and execute the commands broadcast by the signal converter unit, respond to the commands, monitor its own status, and feed back the execution result and its own status information to the signal converter unit via a VLF signal. This application utilizes a wireless communication architecture consisting of an initiator unit, a signal converter unit, and a wireless electronic detonator unit. By replacing physical cable connections with wireless signals, it fundamentally eliminates communication failures caused by line leakage or short circuits, significantly improving the reliability, adaptability, and construction efficiency of the detonation system in complex and harsh environments. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the application and to make other features, objects, and advantages of the application more apparent. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of this application are used to explain the application and do not constitute an undue limitation of the application. In the drawings: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a system for remotely initiating a wireless electronic detonator provided in this application; Figure 2 A flowchart of a system for remotely initiating a wireless electronic detonator provided in this application; Figure 3 A timing diagram of a system for remotely initiating a wireless electronic detonator provided in this application; Figure 4 A timing diagram of a system for remotely initiating a wireless electronic detonator provided in this application. Detailed Implementation

[0020] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0021] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate for the embodiments of this application described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0022] In this application, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "middle," "vertical," "horizontal," "lateral," and "longitudinal" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for the purpose of better describing this application and its embodiments, and are not intended to limit the indicated device, element, or component to having a specific orientation, or to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation.

[0023] Furthermore, in addition to indicating location or positional relationship, some of the aforementioned terms may also have other meanings. For example, the term "above" may also be used in some cases to indicate a certain dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0024] Furthermore, the terms "installation," "setup," "equipped with," "connection," "linked," and "socketing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0025] Existing detonation systems all require copper cables as the communication medium between the detonator and the electronic detonator. This design makes the system susceptible to environmental factors, leading to various abnormal conditions such as short circuits, leakage, and open circuits. These abnormalities can easily cause delays and reduce efficiency during blasting operations. Furthermore, the attenuation characteristics of wired connections limit the number of detonators and the detonation distance of a single detonator, imposing limitations on detonation scheme design for large-scale and long-distance operations.

[0026] To address this issue, this application employs wireless signal transmission between the detonator and the wireless electronic detonator, eliminating the need for copper cables as a communication medium during operation. This design ensures the wireless electronic detonator's circuit is completely independent, requiring no physical interaction with the outside world, thus guaranteeing that the wireless electronic detonator is unaffected by the operating environment.

[0027] Based on this, the detonator placement and detonation process will be greatly simplified during detonation operations, achieving a breakthrough in lower operating costs and higher operating efficiency compared to traditional wired detonation operations.

[0028] like Figure 1 As shown, current wired detonation systems require a copper busbar as the communication and energy transfer medium between the detonator and the electronic detonator. However, this wired detonation method has the following drawbacks: 1) It is susceptible to external interference. The working site environment is complex and changeable, which may lead to various abnormal situations such as leakage and short circuit in the detonation network.

[0029] 2) Limited scalability: When carrying out detonation operations at the thousand-shot level, it is necessary to build a complex cascade detonation network system, which is technically difficult to implement on site.

[0030] 3) The detonation cost is high. During the detonation operation, as the number of detonators increases, a large number of copper busbars and wiring connection devices are required, which is accompanied by a large amount of labor costs.

[0031] To address the issues of susceptibility to external interference, limited scalability, and high detonation costs, an improved technical solution was designed that utilizes wireless data transmission between the detonator and the electronic detonator. The overall design divides the wireless communication between the detonator and the electronic detonator into two parts: the first part uses LoRa signals to transmit the detonator command to a signal converter; the second part uses very low frequency signals to forward the detonator command to the wireless electronic detonator, such as... Figure 2 .

[0032] like Figure 2 As shown, in a first aspect, this application provides a system for remotely initiating a wireless electronic detonator, including an initiator unit, a signal converter unit, and a wireless electronic detonator unit.

[0033] The detonator unit is configured to generate and issue a sequence of detonation process control commands, receive status information fed back by the wireless electronic detonator unit, determine the process execution result, and generate a record.

[0034] The instruction sequence includes at least a network formation instruction, a charging instruction, and a detonation instruction.

[0035] Furthermore, the detonator unit is also configured to: Import and / or export the registration data of the wireless electronic detonator unit, and based on the registration data of the wireless electronic detonator unit, send the networking command, charging command and detonation command through the LoRa communication module, and receive the networking result and charging status information from the wireless electronic detonator unit; Based on the network configuration results, the charging status information, and the detonation confirmation, a detonation operation record is generated.

[0036] It should be noted that the detonator unit, as the control core of the system, operates based on a clear sequence of instructions for networking, charging, and detonation.

[0037] During the preparation phase, data is loaded into the detonator unit. Specifically, this can be done by importing or manually entering the registration data (such as a registration list) of the wireless electronic detonator units required for this blasting mission into the detonator unit. This registration data must contain at least a unique identifier for each wireless electronic detonator unit.

[0038] During the networking phase, the detonator unit generates and issues a networking command, which is sent to the signal converter unit via its internal LoRa communication module, and finally broadcast to all wireless electronic detonator units within the signal coverage area. The detonator unit receives status information (including its unique identifier) ​​from each wireless electronic detonator unit. Next, the received identifiers are compared with the pre-registered list. The comparison is recorded in two ways: successful and unsuccessful, indicating successful networking or a networking error. Successful networking means that if all identifiers in the pre-registered list successfully respond within a preset time, the detonator unit determines that networking is successful, and the process proceeds to the next stage. A networking error means that if some identifiers fail to respond or respond with incorrect status information, the detonator unit marks and handles the abnormal status.

[0039] During the charging phase, signifying successful network establishment, the detonator unit generates and issues a charging command. Next, the detonator unit receives charging status information (such as "charging in progress," "charging complete," or "charging failed") from each wireless electronic detonator unit. The detonator unit continuously monitors until all detonator units report "charging complete," only then allowing the final detonation process to begin. If any detonator unit reports "charging failed," the detonator unit marks it as abnormal and excludes it from the subsequent detonation sequence.

[0040] During the detonation phase, after obtaining final authorization from the operator, the detonator unit generates and issues a detonation command. Based on feedback from the communication link (such as a detonation command confirmation signal) and the final status of each wireless electronic detonator unit, the detonator unit determines the process execution result. Subsequently, the detonator unit generates a detonation operation record. This record is an immutable data file containing at least: a list of identifiers of the wireless electronic detonator units involved in the detonation, the status of each wireless electronic detonator unit during the networking and charging phases, the timestamp of the detonation command issuance, and the final detonation result (success / partial failure). This record provides core data for operation auditing and accountability.

[0041] Through the above process, the detonator unit achieves full-cycle control of the detonation operation, realizes independent status monitoring and precise control of each wireless electronic detonator unit through two-way wireless communication, and has the ability to quickly locate faults, fundamentally improving the reliability, safety and efficiency of the detonation operation.

[0042] The signal converter unit, connected to the detonator unit via the LoRa communication protocol, is configured to: convert the detonator unit's instructions into very low frequency (VLF) signals for broadcasting, and receive VLF signals sent by the wireless electronic detonator unit, convert them into LoRa signals, and transmit them back to the detonator unit.

[0043] Specifically, the signal converter unit is also configured to enable bidirectional conversion between the LoRa communication protocol and the very low frequency communication protocol.

[0044] It should be noted that the signal converter unit acts as a bidirectional conversion hub between communication protocols and physical signals in the system. Its core design goal is to solve the technical contradiction that a single wireless technology cannot simultaneously achieve long-distance transmission and strong environmental penetration capability.

[0045] The signal converter unit operates as follows: 1. Downlink: Translation and broadcasting of commands from the detonator unit The signal converter unit receives command data packets from the detonator unit via its built-in LoRa communication module. These packets contain control commands (such as networking, charging, and detonation) to be sent to one or all wireless electronic detonator units. The main processor within the signal converter unit parses the received LoRa format data packets and extracts the core command content. Subsequently, this command content is repackaged into a new data packet according to predefined very low frequency (VLF) communication protocol rules. After encapsulation, the VLF transmission module within the signal converter unit modulates the digital command packet onto a VLF carrier wave for wide-area broadcast in the form of electromagnetic waves. Due to the long wavelength, diffraction, and penetrating power of VLF signals, they can effectively penetrate media such as rock, soil, and tunnel walls, or bypass obstacles, ensuring reliable coverage of commands to wireless electronic detonator units deployed in various locations even in complex and harsh operating environments.

[0046] 2. Uplink: Conversion and backhaul of responses from wireless electronic detonator units. The signal converter unit continuously monitors the very low frequency (VLF) signals transmitted back by the wireless electronic detonator unit through its VLF receiving module. These signals contain information such as the wireless electronic detonator's ID and status (e.g., charging complete, fault code). The processor within the signal converter unit demodulates the received VLF signals, restores them to digital data packets, and re-encapsulates and reassembles them according to the rules of the LoRa communication protocol. After encapsulation, the data packets are sent back to the detonator unit via the LoRa communication module. LoRa technology features long-distance transmission and strong anti-interference capabilities, ensuring that the detonator can reliably receive feedback information from all detonators even at a distance of several kilometers.

[0047] It should also be noted that the signal converter unit can be flexibly deployed either by vehicle or by fixed bracket, depending on the on-site operating environment (such as open-pit mines, underground tunnels, multi-level platforms, etc.). The purpose is to place itself in an optimal geographical location that can simultaneously ensure a stable connection with the rear detonator unit (via LoRa) and provide the best coverage of the front detonator group (via VLF), thereby acting as an efficient wireless relay station.

[0048] The signal converter unit can have a built-in battery to make itself a closed, independent device, thus completely immune to electrical faults such as leakage and short circuits caused by water, moisture, and metal contact in traditional wired systems.

[0049] In summary, the signal converter unit, through its internally integrated dual modulation and demodulation system (LoRa Modem + VLF Modem), bridges the two communication requirements of "reliable long-distance backhaul" and "strong short-distance penetration coverage," overcoming the limitations of a single technology.

[0050] The wireless electronic detonator unit is connected to the signal converter unit via a very low frequency (VLF) communication protocol and is configured to: receive and execute instructions broadcast by the signal converter unit, respond to instructions, monitor its own status, and feed back the execution results and its own status information to the signal converter unit via a VLF signal.

[0051] Specifically, the wireless electronic detonator unit is further configured as follows: The voltage and current status inside the wireless electronic detonator unit are monitored in real time, and the status information including the voltage and current status is fed back to the detonator unit through the signal converter unit.

[0052] It should be noted that the very low frequency (VLF) receiver module built into the wireless electronic detonator unit is constantly in a listening state, capturing the command signal broadcast by the signal converter unit. After demodulation and decoding, the command signal is sent to the microprocessor within the wireless electronic detonator unit for analysis. The microprocessor is a conventional processor, and this application does not limit the type of processor.

[0053] The microprocessor executes the corresponding preset operation procedure based on the parsed instruction code: Responding to the networking command: When a “networking” command is received, the wireless electronic detonator unit sends out its unique identifier and basic status (such as “ready”) as response information through its very low frequency transmission module.

[0054] Execute charging command: When a "charge" command is received, the switching circuit inside the wireless electronic detonator unit closes, initiating the charging process of the energy storage capacitor.

[0055] Execute the detonation command: When the "detonation" command is received, the control circuit inside the wireless electronic detonator unit triggers the discharge switch, instantly releasing the energy of the energy storage capacitor onto the electric detonator bridge wire, thus completing the detonation.

[0056] The wireless electronic detonator unit integrates voltage and current sensors to continuously and in real-time monitor key electrical parameters, including: Capacitor voltage: During the charging phase, the voltage across the energy storage capacitor is monitored in real time to determine whether the charging has reached the preset detonation voltage requirement.

[0057] Loop current: Monitors the operating current of the internal loop to diagnose abnormalities such as short circuits and open circuits.

[0058] The analog signals acquired by the voltage and current sensors are converted into digital values ​​and compared with the internally stored normal operating threshold range to generate clear status information. This status information not only includes the original voltage and current data, but may also include diagnostic conclusions (e.g., status codes such as "charging complete", "insufficient voltage", "circuit open circuit").

[0059] When the wireless electronic detonator unit detects a critical change in its status (such as charging completion or a malfunction) or receives a command requiring a response, it immediately initiates a reporting process. The microprocessor transmits the encapsulated status information (including its own ID, command execution result, and diagnostic status data) via a very low frequency (VLF) transmitter module. The status information is relayed by the signal converter unit and finally transmitted back to the detonator unit.

[0060] In one embodiment, the detonator unit is further configured to: During the execution of the networking command or charging command, if the received status information indicates an abnormality or if the response from the wireless electronic detonator unit is not received within a preset time, an abnormal status is marked and processed.

[0061] Specifically, after issuing a networking or charging command, the detonator unit starts a preset timeout timer and waits for status information feedback from the wireless electronic detonator unit. Feedback typically takes two forms: first, the status information feedback carries an abnormal status; second, there is no response after the timeout. Specifically, in the first case, the detonator unit directly receives status information from a wireless electronic detonator unit, the content of which indicates that the unit itself is in an abnormal state (e.g., status code "charging failure," "internal short circuit," etc.). In the second case, the preset timeout period has expired, but the detonator unit has still not received any feedback information from the specific detonator (determined by its pre-registered unique identifier).

[0062] In response to the above situation, upon detecting an anomaly, the detonator unit marks it in the internally maintained list of detonator statuses for this operation. For the wireless electronic detonator unit exhibiting the anomaly, its status is updated to "Abnormal," and the anomaly type (e.g., "Charging Failure" or "Communication Timeout") is recorded. Additionally, the unique identifier of the abnormal wireless electronic detonator unit is prominently displayed to the operator on the detonator unit's human-machine interface (e.g., highlighted in red or flashing). The interface clearly indicates which wireless electronic detonator unit number has encountered the problem.

[0063] In one embodiment, the detonator unit is further configured to: During the networking process, a time synchronization signal is sent to each of the wireless electronic detonator units, and the internal clocks of each of the wireless electronic detonator units are synchronized; the detonation command includes a detonation time based on the synchronized clock.

[0064] Specifically, after the networking process is successfully completed, the detonator unit generates and issues a time synchronization command, which is broadcast to all successfully networked wireless electronic detonator units through the signal converter unit.

[0065] Furthermore, the time synchronization command includes an absolute time reference point defined by the detonator unit (e.g., the Tth millisecond after the command is issued is time zero). Upon receiving the command, each wireless electronic detonator unit's internal main control microprocessor calibrates its internal clock counter according to the absolute time reference point included in the command, ensuring that the clock reference of all wireless electronic detonator units is consistent with the reference defined by the detonator unit.

[0066] Next, the detonator unit generates the detonation command. The detonation command is sent out according to the communication path. Even if there are slight differences in the time it takes for the command to reach different detonators, it will not affect the final detonation accuracy at all, because all detonators are waiting for the same absolute future moment.

[0067] The wireless electronic detonator unit is further configured to: Detonation is performed when the internal clock reaches the detonation time.

[0068] Specifically, after receiving the detonation command, each wireless electronic detonator unit analyzes the absolute detonation time and begins monitoring its own synchronized internal clock. Each wireless electronic detonator unit independently determines that when its internal clock reaches the absolute detonation time specified in the command, it triggers the electric igniter to discharge and executes the detonation without waiting for any additional triggering signal.

[0069] Using the above method, the synchronization of detonation is no longer limited by the distance difference in wireless signal transmission and relay processing time, but depends only on the timekeeping accuracy of the internal clock of each detonator, enabling microsecond-level synchronized detonation. In other words, as long as the time synchronization command and the detonation command are successfully received by the detonator once, detonation at the predetermined time can be guaranteed, with strong resistance to transient communication interference.

[0070] In one embodiment, the wireless electronic detonator unit is further configured to: It receives and relays communication signals from other wireless electronic detonator units to form a mesh communication network.

[0071] Specifically, the wireless electronic detonator unit forms a mesh communication network by implementing a relay function. Its operation is as follows: When the detonator unit actively initiates a network-wide route probe via the signal converter unit, the wireless electronic detonator unit passively responds: it receives probe signals relayed from other wireless electronic detonator units, measures their signal strength, and then transmits its own identifier along the original path along the measured link quality information. Based on this, the detonator unit calculates and issues an optimal routing table. Subsequently, when forwarding instructions or status information destined for a specific node, the wireless electronic detonator unit performs relay according to this routing table.

[0072] In this way, network commands can be sent from the signal converter unit and relayed through one or more intermediate wireless electronic detonator unit nodes to any node in the network where the signal is blocked, ensuring reliable delivery of commands.

[0073] Similarly, when the wireless electronic detonator unit needs to report its status to the detonator unit, it can choose the optimal path to transmit the information back.

[0074] Using the above method, the status signal can bypass obstacles, effectively solving the communication "dead zone" problem caused by obstruction in complex environments and significantly improving the robustness of the system.

[0075] It should be noted that the networking phase includes a route discovery process, where the detonator unit initiates route probing via a signal converter to construct an optimal path routing table to each wireless electronic detonator unit. This routing table forms the basis for all subsequent command relay and forwarding. The issuance and execution of detonation commands can be a handshake protocol comprising three phases: "command issuance - full confirmation - final execution".

[0076] In the first phase, the detonator unit generates a command containing the absolute detonation time and broadcasts it via a signal converter. The command propagates through the network via multi-hop relay. Nodes with strong signals forward the command to their weaker neighboring nodes. This process continues until a preset timeout expires, ensuring the command has sufficient time to reach every corner of the network. Next, each wireless electronic detonator unit (including those with weak signals), upon receiving the detonation command, first parses and securely stores it in its own non-volatile memory, rather than immediately preparing for execution. Simultaneously, it replies with a "command received" acknowledgment signal.

[0077] In the second phase, each wireless electronic detonator unit (including those with weak signals) sends a "command received" confirmation signal back to the detonator unit via the mesh network. After issuing the command, the detonator unit initiates a "ready" timer window. A list of confirmed detonators can be dynamically displayed on the interface. Within the timer window, if the detonator unit receives confirmation signals from all wireless electronic detonator units, it determines "ready" and enters the final execution phase. After the timer window ends, if any one or more wireless electronic detonator units (especially those with persistently weak signals) have not returned a confirmation signal, the detonator unit will immediately initiate a safety interlock. For example, the safety interlock first includes broadcasting a "command invalidated" safety command, disabling all wireless electronic detonator units that have received the detonation command; simultaneously, it permanently locks its own detonation function and issues an alarm until manual operator intervention.

[0078] In the third stage, a silent waiting period only begins when all wireless electronic detonators are ready. Each detonator unit autonomously detonates at the exact detonation moment, based on its own synchronized high-precision clock.

[0079] In one embodiment, the LoRa communication between the detonator unit and the signal converter unit, and / or the very low frequency communication between the signal converter unit and the wireless electronic detonator unit, employs a frequency hopping communication mechanism.

[0080] Specifically, the detonator unit generates a frequency hopping sequence (i.e., a series of operating channels and switching timings). At the start of communication, it sends a control command containing the frequency hopping sequence and synchronization clock information to all wireless electronic detonator units via the signal converter unit.

[0081] Active frequency hopping of the signal converter unit means that when sending commands or data, the signal converter unit actively transmits at different frequency points according to the synchronized timing.

[0082] The follow-up frequency hopping of a wireless electronic detonator unit means that after receiving a frequency hopping synchronization command, the receiving circuit of the wireless electronic detonator unit is not fixed on a single frequency, but rather adjusts its receiving frequency synchronously according to the command, always maintaining consistency with the current transmitting frequency of the signal converter unit. In other words, the frequency hopping of the wireless electronic detonator unit switches to a predetermined frequency according to a predetermined time to wait for and listen for signals.

[0083] Because both communicating parties (transmitter and receiver) synchronously switch frequencies under a unified sequence and clock, even if a frequency is interfered with, it will only affect one communication attempt. The detonator unit will then switch to the next frequency to continue operating, thus ensuring the overall reliability of the link. Example

[0084] like Figure 3 As shown, a system for remotely initiating wireless electronic detonators is described. The initiator is responsible for sending commands to control the detonator networking, charging, and detonation, and for acquiring the corresponding execution status of the detonators. The signal converter communicates with the initiator via LoRa signals and with the wireless electronic detonators via very low frequency (VLF) signals. The wireless electronic detonator receives the VLF signals sent by the signal converter and executes the corresponding operational processes.

[0085] The system implementation mainly consists of three parts: the detonator, the signal converter, and the wireless electronic detonator. These three parts are described in detail below: 1. Detonator Responsible for controlling the communication between the LoRa module and the signal converter; Responsible for controlling wireless electronic detonators to perform actions such as roll call, detonator networking, detonator charging, and detonator detonation; Responsible for acquiring and handling any abnormal statuses of wireless electronic detonators.

[0086] 2. Signal converter Responsible for controlling the communication between the LoRa module and the detonator; Responsible for controlling the communication between the very low frequency module and the wireless electronic detonator; Responsible for converting communication data between the detonator and the wireless electronic detonator; Depending on the different operating environment and requirements, signal converters can be flexibly deployed using methods such as vehicle-mounted transport and fixed brackets to achieve the best signal coverage effect.

[0087] 3. Wireless electronic detonator It is responsible for controlling the very low frequency module to communicate with the detonator via a signal converter; It is responsible for performing actions such as networking, charging, and detonation based on the signals sent by the detonator; It is responsible for real-time monitoring of the voltage, current, and other status of wireless electronic detonators.

[0088] In summary, a system for remotely detonating wireless electronic detonators has the following advantages: The detonator and the electronic detonator communicate wirelessly, which solves the problems of being easily affected by the working environment during the detonation process and the limitations of the detonation distance and the number of detonators by the length of the busbar. The detonator and the electronic detonator communicate wirelessly, eliminating the need for on-site copper busbar wiring and reducing operational difficulty and construction costs. Wireless communication uses LoRa and very low frequency signals, which have long transmission distance, high penetration, and strong anti-interference ability; For large-scale detonation operations, there is no need to design a complex cascade detonation system; detonation can be carried out directly as long as the area is within the coverage of wireless signals.

[0089] like Figure 4 In a second aspect, this application provides a method for remotely initiating a wireless electronic detonator, applied to the aforementioned system for remotely initiating a wireless electronic detonator, comprising: S100, the detonator unit generates and issues a sequence of detonation process control commands, wherein the command sequence includes at least a networking command, a charging command, and a detonation command; S200: The signal converter unit receives instructions from the detonator unit via LoRa communication and converts them into very low frequency signals for broadcasting. S300: The wireless electronic detonator unit receives and executes instructions broadcast by the signal converter unit, and monitors its own status. S400, the wireless electronic detonator unit transmits the command execution result and its own status information to the signal converter unit via a very low frequency signal; S500 uses a signal converter unit to convert the very low frequency signal from the wireless electronic detonator unit into a LoRa signal and transmits it back to the detonator unit; S600, the detonator unit receives the status information to determine the process execution result and generate a record.

[0090] It should be noted that for a detailed description of a method for remotely initiating a wireless electronic detonator, please refer to the description of a system for remotely initiating a wireless electronic detonator, which will not be repeated here.

[0091] It should be noted that the steps shown in the flowchart in the accompanying drawings can be executed in a computer system such as a set of computer-executable instructions, and although a logical order is shown in the flowchart, in some cases the steps shown or described may be executed in a different order than that shown here.

[0092] Obviously, those skilled in the art should understand that the various units or steps of this application described above can be implemented using general-purpose computing devices. They can be centralized on a single computing device or distributed across a network of multiple computing devices. Optionally, they can be implemented using computer-executable program code, thereby storing them in a storage device for execution by a computing device, or fabricating them separately as individual integrated circuit modules, or fabricating multiple modules or steps into a single integrated circuit module. Thus, this application is not limited to any particular combination of hardware and software.

[0093] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A system for remotely detonating a wireless electronic detonator, characterized in that, include: The detonator unit is configured as follows: Generate and issue a sequence of detonation process control commands, receive status information fed back by the wireless electronic detonator unit, determine the process execution result and generate a record, wherein the command sequence includes at least a networking command, a charging command and a detonation command; The signal converter unit, connected to the detonator unit via the LoRa communication protocol, is configured as follows: According to the instructions issued by the detonator unit, it is converted into a very low frequency signal for broadcasting, and the very low frequency signal sent by the wireless electronic detonator unit is received, converted into a LoRa signal and sent back to the detonator unit. The wireless electronic detonator unit, connected to the signal converter unit via a very low frequency communication protocol, is configured as follows: It receives and executes instructions broadcast by the signal converter unit, responds to instructions, monitors its own status, and feeds back the execution results and its own status information to the signal converter unit via a very low frequency signal.

2. The system for remotely detonating a wireless electronic detonator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The detonator unit is further configured to: Import and / or export the registration data of the wireless electronic detonator unit, and based on the registration data of the wireless electronic detonator unit, send the networking command, charging command and detonation command through the LoRa communication module, and receive the networking result and charging status information from the wireless electronic detonator unit; Based on the network configuration results, the charging status information, and the detonation confirmation, a detonation operation record is generated.

3. The system for remotely detonating a wireless electronic detonator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The detonator unit is further configured to: During the execution of the networking command or charging command, if the received status information indicates an abnormality or if the response from the wireless electronic detonator unit is not received within a preset time, an abnormal status is marked and processed.

4. The system for remotely detonating a wireless electronic detonator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The signal converter unit is further configured to: Achieve bidirectional conversion between LoRa communication protocol and very low frequency communication protocol.

5. The system for remotely detonating a wireless electronic detonator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The wireless electronic detonator unit is further configured as follows: The voltage and current status inside the wireless electronic detonator unit are monitored in real time, and the status information including the voltage and current status is fed back to the detonator unit through the signal converter unit.

6. The system for remotely detonating a wireless electronic detonator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The wireless electronic detonator unit is also configured to: It receives and relays communication signals from other wireless electronic detonator units to form a mesh communication network.

7. The system for remotely detonating a wireless electronic detonator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The detonator unit is further configured to: During the networking process, a time synchronization signal is sent to each of the wireless electronic detonator units, and the internal clocks of each of the wireless electronic detonator units are synchronized; the detonation command includes a detonation time based on the synchronized clock; The wireless electronic detonator unit is further configured as follows: Detonation is performed when the internal clock reaches the detonation time.

8. The system for remotely detonating a wireless electronic detonator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The signal converter unit is mounted on the mobile device.

9. The system for remotely detonating a wireless electronic detonator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The LoRa communication between the detonator unit and the signal converter unit, and / or the very low frequency communication between the signal converter unit and the wireless electronic detonator unit, employs a frequency hopping communication mechanism.

10. A method for remotely initiating a wireless electronic detonator, characterized in that, The system for remotely detonating wireless electronic detonators according to any one of claims 1-9 comprises: The detonator unit generates and issues a sequence of detonation process control commands, wherein the command sequence includes at least a networking command, a charging command, and a detonation command; The signal converter unit receives instructions from the detonator unit via LoRa communication and converts them into very low frequency signals for broadcasting. The wireless electronic detonator unit receives and executes instructions broadcast by the signal converter unit, and monitors its own status. The wireless electronic detonator unit transmits the command execution result and its own status information to the signal converter unit via a very low frequency signal. The very low frequency signal from the wireless electronic detonator unit is converted into a LoRa signal using a signal converter unit and then transmitted back to the detonator unit. The detonator unit receives the status information to determine the process execution result and generate a record.

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