Electronic detonator spool and detonator comprising such a spool

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an electronic detonator coil.

[0002] It relates in particular to a wireless bus electronic detonator coil. The invention finds application in the field of pyrotechnic initiation, in any sector where a network of at least one detonator is traditionally required. Typical examples of use include mining, quarrying, seismic exploration, and the construction and public works sector. WO 2017 / 181207 A1 discloses a prior art detonator coil.

[0003] A bus-wireless detonator, for example, comprises two functional entities: a primer, and an electronic control module.

[0004] The primer typically includes an explosive composition as well as an electronic module, and this electronic module is configured to communicate with the electronic control module, for example via a cable between them.

[0005] When using a detonator, the primer is placed in an explosive cartridge (often called a "booster"), which is itself housed in a designated location intended to receive it and be loaded with explosive. Such a location is, for example, a hole drilled in a surface, such as a floor, a wall, or even a ceiling.

[0006] The electronic control module, connected by cable to the primer in use, is positioned at the exit of the bore and is configured to receive test and / or firing signals, for example, from a control and / or programming console. These signals can be communicated wirelessly, for example, via radio or light signal between the control and / or programming console and the electronic module.

[0007] To install the primer and the electronic module, the cable intended to connect them is, for example, wound around a reel; and to unwind it, a tool, such as a screwdriver or a simple stick, is passed through a central barrel of a body of the reel, which makes it easy to rotate the body of the reel around its axis to unwind the cable.

[0008] Furthermore, for a wireless bus detonator, the electronic control module must be positioned as precisely as possible, in particular it must be oriented as best as possible towards the control and / or programming console; otherwise, a communication range is reduced, or communication cannot be established, or is interrupted.

[0009] Therefore, a need arose to improve and / or facilitate the deployment of an electronic detonator, particularly without bus wires or without surface connection.

[0010] Nevertheless, it seemed desirable to impact a user's practice as little as possible.

[0011] In this context, one objective of the present invention is to overcome at least partially the aforementioned disadvantages, while also potentially leading to other advantages.

[0012] To this end, a detonator coil according to claim 1 is proposed according to a first aspect, comprising at least one body, for example cylindrical, configured to receive a cable wound around the body, in particular a linking cable between a primer and an electronic control module of the detonator.

[0013] Interestingly, the coil body has at least one housing configured to receive a primer.

[0014] Interestingly, the coil body has at least one electronic control module housing configured to receive an electronic control module.

[0015] One interesting aspect is that the coil body has at least one bore forming a hub configured to rotate the coil body.

[0016] Such a bore is then preferably formed in the middle of the coil.

[0017] In one embodiment, the hub-forming bore includes the housing configured to receive the starter.

[0018] Such an arrangement allows the primer to be housed more in the center of the coil, which allows the primers to be as far apart as possible when several detonators, especially several coils, are stored in a box, for example a storage carton.

[0019] For example, the electronic control module housing has at least one slot extending along an axis of the body.

[0020] For example, the electronic control module housing, and / or the housing configured to receive the primer opens at at least one end of the body.

[0021] According to an interesting feature of the invention, the coil includes at least one housing configured to receive a stake, the stake being configured to form a pivot connection with the hub-forming bore.

[0022] The stake can be held by simple mechanical adjustment, for example a size of the stake is adjusted to a compartment of the reel body, by a sliding system inside a compartment, or by fitting into a housing at one end of the stake.

[0023] According to an interesting feature of the invention, the spool includes a shutter configured to attach to a first end of the spool body.

[0024] For example, the shutter has an inner face and an outer face, opposite to the inner face.

[0025] For example, the inner face has a fastening system configured to fix the shutter to the first end of the spool body.

[0026] For example, the spool has a fin collar that surrounds the first end of the spool body.

[0027] For example, the shutter includes a system for attaching the electronic control module, the attachment system being configured to attach the electronic control module to the shutter.

[0028] For example, the inner face of the shutter contains the mounting system for the electronic control module.

[0029] For example, the shutter has a first stake fixing system, the first fixing system being configured to fix the stake to the shutter at a first location.

[0030] For example, the first fastening system is configured to attach the stake to the shutter, extending from the inner face of the shutter.

[0031] For example, the shutter has a second stake fixing system, the second fixing system being configured to fix the stake to the shutter, at a second location, notably by extending from the external face of the shutter.

[0032] The second location is notably distinct from the first location.

[0033] Thus, the shutter is configured, for example, to hold the electronic control module on one face, here the inner face, and the stake on another face, here the outer face.

[0034] When the stake is planted in a wall, the electronic control module can then be held at a desired altitude and orientation on the shutter, and it can optionally be extracted from the reel.

[0035] According to another example, the reel has a finned shutter, the finned shutter has a central part, for example circular in shape (a flange), and a collar of fins surrounding the central part.

[0036] For example, the finned shutter is configured to attach to a second end of the reel body, particularly in a stowage configuration.

[0037] Thus, the overall structure of the coil is minimally affected, but it is rearranged to include various compartments that aid in the deployment of a detonator. Furthermore, it has been observed that a coil body with a relatively small diameter makes unwinding more difficult as ambient temperatures decrease, especially when the temperature drops below 0°C.

[0038] It is therefore preferable to have the largest possible diameter coil body, taking into account the context and any other design constraints. However, the larger the diameter of the coil body, the more volume may be wasted inside it.

[0039] The present invention, according to any one of its features, has therefore proven to be interesting in that it exploits this internal volume and thus prevents it from being lost.

[0040] In one particular example of implementation, the spool includes the stake.

[0041] For example, the stake has a part configured to cooperate with the bore to form the pivot joint, and at least one stop, configured to limit insertion of the stake into the bore.

[0042] For example, the stake has a conical part that is configured to form the stop.

[0043] For example, the stop has a conical section extending from the part configured to form the pivot joint with the bore.

[0044] Another interesting option is that the stake includes an electrical connector.

[0045] The electrical connector is configured, for example, to connect a power part to a functional part of an electronic circuit, at least the functional part being included in the electronic control module.

[0046] The electrical connector of the stake includes, for example, a metal strip, for example a spring-loaded blade.

[0047] According to one example of implementation, the stake includes the energy part.

[0048] For example, the reel has a storage configuration, and in this configuration the stake is inserted into its housing.

[0049] For example, the stake is fixed in the first location, by the first fixing system of the shutter.

[0050] Also proposed, according to another aspect, is an electronic detonator comprising an electronic control module, an explosive primer, and a connecting cable linking the primer and the electronic control module, the detonator further comprising a coil according to any of the characteristics described above.

[0051] The electronic control module here refers to a wireless electronic detonator surface module (connection bus), for example, comprising a functional module including an electronic board with an electronic circuit, such as a radio and / or optical (light) signal communication module. Optionally, the electronic module includes a protective cover, such as a housing, which may serve as a mechanical support configured to hold the functional module in the corresponding slot on the coil. In one embodiment, the electronic control module, and in particular the functional module, includes at least one functional electronic circuit.

[0052] When the functional part of the electronic circuit is electrically connected to a power part of the electronic circuit, then the electronic control module can be activated.

[0053] The energy part here refers to a part of an electronic circuit that includes, for example, a power source, such as a battery.

[0054] For example, the functional part of an electronic circuit includes an electrical contact area.

[0055] For example, the power section includes an electrical contact area.

[0056] For example, the electronic control module, in particular its electronic circuit, includes at least one connection interface, in particular with the stake as described later; the connection interface is, for example, configured to be connected to an electrical connector of the stake, as described later.

[0057] For example, the connection interface of the electronic control module includes the contact range of the functional part of the electronic control module. For example, the connection interface of the electronic control module, or more specifically the electrical contact range of the functional part, includes a push button.

[0058] According to an interesting option, the electronic control module, and in particular the functional module, also includes the electronic circuit energy part.

[0059] For example, the connection interface of the electronic control module then also includes the contact range of the energy part.

[0060] According to a particularly interesting example of implementation, the detonator includes a storage configuration.

[0061] In the storage configuration, the electronic control module is housed in the corresponding coil housing, i.e. in the coil electronic control module housing.

[0062] The electronic control module, for example, is completely concealed within the body of the coil.

[0063] For example, the electronic control module is held in the housing by clamping.

[0064] For example, the primer is housed in the corresponding slot on the coil.

[0065] For example, the connecting cable between the electronic control module and the primer is wound around the coil body.

[0066] According to an interesting option, the shutter is fixed to the first end of the reel body.

[0067] According to an interesting option, the finned shutter is attached to the second end of the reel body.

[0068] For example, the electronic control module is attached to the shutter, for example to the inner face of the shutter.

[0069] For example, the stake is fixed to the shutter, for example to the inner face of the shutter, for example by the first stake fixing system.

[0070] For example, the stake is housed, in its compartment, in the body of the reel.

[0071] In another interesting example, the detonator has an installation configuration.

[0072] Preferably, in this configuration, the stake is removed from its housing on the reel.

[0073] Preferably, the primer is also extracted from its housing in the coil.

[0074] In the installation configuration, part of the stake is for example inserted into the bore forming the hub of the reel, and the stake and the bore thus form a pivot connection configured to rotate the body of the reel around the stake, which allows the cable to be unwound if necessary.

[0075] In yet another interesting example, the detonator has a usage configuration.

[0076] In the usage configuration, the starter has for example been placed at the bottom of a hole formed in a wall, and is connected by the cable to the electronic control module which is at the exit of the hole, for example on the surface of the wall.

[0077] The electronic control module can then be placed in the desired position (orientation and altitude), for example oriented towards a control and / or programming console.

[0078] In this configuration, the electronic control module can then be activated by a control and / or programming console, for example.

[0079] For example, the electronic control module can be removed at least partially from its housing in the coil body.

[0080] For example, at least part of the electronic control module remains in the corresponding housing and is held, for example, by clamping in the housing in the coil body.

[0081] If the cable is fully unwound, the electronic control module can remain in the reel body.

[0082] For example, the electronic control module is attached to the inner face of the shutter.

[0083] In one particular use case, especially if the cable has been fully unwound, the electronic control module attached to the inside of the shutter is retracted into its housing in the reel body. This means the shutter remains attached to the first end of the reel body, and the reel is secured at the hole's exit by the finned collar surrounding the first end of the reel body. The stake can then be omitted.

[0084] Depending on the option, the stake is attached to the shutter, for example to the outer face of the shutter, for example by the second stake attachment system. For example, the stake is then attached to the shutter by a stake head.

[0085] In this configuration, the stake can then be driven into a wall to hold the electronic control module, which is then attached to the shutter, in particular to the inner face of the shutter.

[0086] According to another interesting option, the stake is attached to the finned shutter.

[0087] And if necessary, the finned shutter is for example separated from the coil body, and for example inserted at the outlet of the hole into which the primer is inserted.

[0088] For example, the stake is then attached to the finned shutter by a stake stem. In one embodiment, the stake is attached by its stem to the finned shutter and by its head to the shutter, specifically to the outer face of the shutter.

[0089] When the finned shutter is fixed at the outlet of the hole, the shutter can then be kept away from the outlet of the hole.

[0090] For example, the electronic control module is then also attached to the shutter, specifically to the inner face of the shutter as described previously. A detonator incorporating a coil according to the invention thus allows the integration of a tool (here, the stake) within the coil itself, which, if necessary, allows the coil to be unwound and / or a distance to be established between the ground (or a wall) and the electronic module. The stake also allows for better control of the position, in terms of altitude and orientation, of the electronic control module, which facilitates good communication with a control and / or programming console.

[0091] In one example of implementation, the stake includes an electrical connector, as previously mentioned.

[0092] The electrical connector is configured, for example, to connect the power part to the functional part of the electronic circuit, in particular to close the electronic circuit of the electronic control module.

[0093] For example, when attaching the stake to the shutter, while the electronic control module is attached to the inner face of the shutter, the stake closes the electronic circuit of the electronic control module and triggers its power-up.

[0094] For example, particularly in use configuration, the electrical connector of the stake is electrically connected to the connection interface of the electronic control module.

[0095] This allows the power part to be electrically connected to the functional part of the electronic control module.

[0096] In an example of an embodiment where the functional module includes both the functional part and the energy part, then the electrical connector allows the contact area of ​​the functional part to be electrically connected to the contact area of ​​the energy part.

[0097] According to another embodiment, the stake contains the energy part, and the electrical connector is connected to the energy part within the stake.

[0098] Thus, for example, particularly in its operating configuration, the electrical connector of the stake is electrically connected to the connection interface of the electronic control module, which includes the contact range of the functional part. The invention, according to an exemplary embodiment, will be better understood and its advantages will become clearer upon reading the following detailed description, given by way of example only and in no way limiting, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: therefigure 1 shows a coil according to an example of an embodiment of the invention, respectively presented in perspective ( figure 1A ), in profile ( figure 1B ), from below ( figure 1C ) and from above ( figure 1D ) ; there figure 2 shows a shutter according to an example of its implementation, respectively presented in perspective ( figure 2A ), according to its outer face ( figure 2B ), and according to its inner face ( figure 2C ) ; there figure 3 shows a finned shutter according to an example of an embodiment, respectively presented in perspective ( figure 3A ), according to its outer face ( figure 3B ), and according to its inner face ( figure 3C ) ; there figure 4 shows a stake according to an example of its realization, respectively presented in perspective ( figure 4A ), according to an initial profile ( figure 4B ), and according to a second profile orthogonally to the first ( figure 4C ) ; there figure 5 shows an electronic control module in perspective, respectively, by definition, recto ( figure 5A ), reverse ( figure 5B ), and from a low angle ( figure 5C ) ; there figure 6 shows the coil of the figure 1 including the electronic module of the figure 5 and the stake of the figure 4 , and respectively with ( figure 6A ) and without ( figure 6B ) the finned shutter of the figure 3 sealing one end of the coil body; the figure 7 shows the picket of the figure 4 and the electronic module of the figure 5 mounted on the shutter of the figure 2 ; there figure 8 including the figures 8A à 8C , presents the stake that has been extracted from the spool, which is inserted through the shutter assembled to the spool body; the figure 9 including the figures 9A à 9D , presents the stake that was extracted from the reel, which is connected to the shutter initially assembled to the reel body in order to extract the electronic control module attached to it; the figure 10 including the figures 10A à 10C , presents a connection between the stake and the electronic control module according to an example implementation; the figure 11 including the figures 11A à 11D , presents the stake that was extracted from the spool, which is connected to the finned shutter initially assembled to the spool body, in order to detach it; and the figure 12 shows the finned shutter, the stake and the shutter on which the electronic module is fixed assembled together.

[0099] There figure 1 illustrates an example of the realization of a detonator coil 10 according to an example of an embodiment of the invention, respectively presented in perspective ( figure 1A ), in profile ( figure 1B ) and, by definition of below ( figure 1C ) and from above ( figure 1D ).

[0100] The coil 10 mainly comprises a body 11.

[0101] The body 11 is here formed of a cylindrical envelope with a circular external section extending longitudinally between two ends: a first end 12, and a second end 13.

[0102] As the figure 1B , body 11 here has a perforation 110.

[0103] The perforation 110 is configured to attach a fixing system 210 for a shutter 20, described in connection with the figure 2 .

[0104] By definition, the first end is considered to be below the coil, while the second end is considered to be above the coil.

[0105] The expressions "above" and "below" are arbitrary here, chosen for ease of description.

[0106] The first end 12 is illustrated, from the front, that is to say according to a view from below the coil, on the figure 1C .

[0107] Thus, as the figures 1A et 1C , the coil here has a fin collar 120 which surrounds the first end 12 of the body.

[0108] This finned collar 120 is specifically configured to form an axial stop for a cable that would be wound around the body 11 of the reel.

[0109] In addition, here the 120 fin collar is configured to facilitate positioning of the coil, for example on a wall or more particularly at the exit of a borehole, as desired.

[0110] The second end 13 is illustrated, from the front, that is to say according to a top view of the spool, on the figure 1D .

[0111] As shown by figures 1A et 1D in particular, the coil here includes a collar 130 which surrounds the second end 13 of the body.

[0112] Similarly, this collar 130 is specifically configured to form an axial stop for the cable that would be wound around the body 11 of the reel.

[0113] Thus, a coiled cable is held between the fin collar 120 and the collar 130.

[0114] The collar 130 also includes here a fastening system 131.

[0115] The 131 attachment system is specifically configured to hold one end of the cable when it is wound around the spool body and thus prevent its unintentional unwinding, particularly in a detonator storage configuration.

[0116] The fastening system 131 includes, for example, two curved stops 132 which extend from the collar 130.

[0117] The coil also includes a bore 14 which is here formed by a tube positioned along a central axis of the coil body.

[0118] The bore 14 is thus configured to form a hub and, in particular, to insert a stake 40, described in connection with the figure 4 , so as to form a pivot joint to rotate the body of the reel, in particular to unwind the cable.

[0119] In addition, bore 14 can also be configured to house a detonator primer, particularly in the detonator storage configuration. The primer is then protected during transport.

[0120] It is then removed beforehand to insert the stake if necessary.

[0121] As the following better demonstrate figure 1C et 1D in particular, the reel includes various reinforcements 15.

[0122] Here the reinforcements 15 connect the tube forming the bore to the coil body, in particular to the body's casing.

[0123] The reinforcements 15 also allow for compartmentalizing an internal space of the body 11, and thus forming housings 16 within the coil, here three housings 16.

[0124] The 16 housing units are thus empty spaces between the 15 reinforcements.

[0125] Two of the reinforcements 15 are spaced further apart radially than the other reinforcements relative to each other so as to form a housing 16a larger than the others; such a housing 16a thus facilitates the insertion of an electronic control module.

[0126] Therefore, dwelling 16a is deduced here as being the largest of the dwellings 16.

[0127] The other 16b slots are the same size. They can all accommodate the stake 40, for example. In this case, the slot 16b configured to accommodate the stake 40 is determined by the position of the stake's fixing element on the shutter 20, as described later.

[0128] Thus, each part goes into the corresponding compartment depending on the orientation of the shutter 20 relative to the body of the reel (which may have housings to fix the different elements).

[0129] Thus, the housing 16a, here radially delimited by the body casing 11 and two reinforcements 15, is configured here to receive an electronic control module 50, described in connection with the figure 5 .

[0130] The housing 16b, here radially delimited by the body envelope 11 and two other reinforcements 15, is for example configured here to house the stake 40, particularly in the detonator storage configuration.

[0131] There figure 2 illustrates the shutter 20 according to an example of an embodiment of the invention.

[0132] The shutter 20 has an inner face 21 and an outer face 22, opposite to the inner face.

[0133] As shown by figures 2A et 2C , the shutter includes a fixing system 210 configured to fix the shutter 20 to the spool body, in particular to close the spool body at its first end 12.

[0134] In particular, the fastening system 210 extends from the inner face 21 and is configured to cooperate with the perforations 110 formed in the spool body. The inner face 21 of the shutter 20 further includes a fastening system 220 configured to attach the electronic module 50 to the shutter.

[0135] Here, it mainly features a slot configured to insert the electronic module 50.

[0136] The shutter 20 also includes here a first fixing system for the stake 230. The first fixing system for the stake 230 is configured to fix the stake 40 to the shutter 20 at a first location and extending from the inner face 21. The first fixing system for the stake 230 includes, for example, spaced pins which are configured to hold the stake 40, for example a head of the stake, by tightening.

[0137] In addition, the shutter 20 here has an aperture of 231.

[0138] The opening 231 passes through a thickness of the shutter 20. In addition, it is surrounded here by the first fixing system of the stake 230, in particular by the pins, on the side of the inner face 21.

[0139] Thus, when the stake 40 is fixed to the first location of the shutter, it is possible to dislodge it by inserting a tool or a finger through the opening 231 and pushing the stake 40 back.

[0140] The shutter also includes a second system for fixing the 240 stake.

[0141] The second fastening system 240 is configured to fix the stake 40 to the shutter at a second location, the second location being separate from the first location, and with the stake extending from the outer face 22 of the shutter. In particular, the second fastening system for the stake 240 includes a window 24, passing through a thickness of the shutter and geometrically centered with respect to the shutter.

[0142] Thus, when the shutter is assembled to the spool body, the window 24 is opposite the bore 14.

[0143] The window 24 has a central part that is mainly circular in shape, and two ears 241 extending from the central part and diametrically opposite each other.

[0144] As shown by figures 2A et 2C , the second fixing system of the stake 240 also includes a stop 242, which is here formed in two diametrically opposed parts, and extend from an ear 241 on the side of the inner face 21.

[0145] The stop 242 is thus configured to stop a rotation of the stake, and also to impose in which direction to turn the stake to lock it in position at the second location.

[0146] In this embodiment, the second fixing system for the stake 240 also includes a lug 243. The lug 243 is formed here by a hemisphere that is thicker than the inner face 21 and is configured to limit the stake's rotation. It thus helps to hold it in position by tightening.

[0147] Thus, as described below, a head of the stake 40 with a shape complementary to the window 24 is thus configured to be inserted through the window 24 and to be locked in position by pivoting the stake.

[0148] There figure 3 illustrates a finned shutter 30.

[0149] The finned shutter 30 is configured to attach to the second end 13 of the body 11 of the spool 10.

[0150] The finned shutter 30 comprises a central part 31, for example circular in shape (a flange), and a collar of fins 32 surrounding the central part.

[0151] The central part 31 here includes a peripheral rim 33, a tube 34, centered with respect to the peripheral rim, and reinforcements 35 connecting the tube 34 to the peripheral rim 33.

[0152] Tube 34 here includes a 340 fixing system configured to fix the stake to the winged shutter.

[0153] The fixing system 340 here includes a wall 345, transverse to the tube 34, which has a cutout 341 comprising a main part 342 with a circular cross-section and four lobes 343, regularly spaced.

[0154] On the side of an inner face shown figure 3C , the wall 345 further includes at least one stop 344 extending along an edge of the main part 342 of the cut 341 from a lobe 343. As with the shutter 20, the stop 344 is thus configured to stop a rotation of the stake, and also to impose in which direction to turn the stake to lock it in position on the finned shutter 30.

[0155] On this same side, wall 345 also includes at least one lug 346. Lug 346 is also formed here by a hemisphere that is thicker than wall 345 and is configured to limit the return rotation of the stake. It thus helps to hold it in position by tightening.

[0156] As described below, the fixing system 340 allows the stake 40 to be inserted and fixed to the winged shutter, in particular a rod 42 of the stake 40.

[0157] The fin collar 32 is here configured to cooperate with the collar 130 of the coil body 10.

[0158] In particular, the fin collar 32 has notches formed by some fins that are shorter than others. These notches are configured to be positioned opposite the curved stops 132 of the collar 130.

[0159] The finned shutter 30 is then fixed to the spool body by insertion and tightening.

[0160] There figure 4 illustrates stake 40 according to an example of implementation.

[0161] The stake 40 here mainly comprises a head 41, and a stem 42 extending from the head and ending in a point 43.

[0162] In general, stake 40 here has a cross-section in the shape of a cross, here with four orthogonal branches, diametrically opposed in pairs.

[0163] Preferably, one branch has a rounded edge to facilitate pivoting of at least part of the stake 40 in the bore 14 of the coil body.

[0164] The head 41 has a conical part, flaring out from the stem, and ending here with a plate 413.

[0165] As illustrated by the figure 4A , tray 413 has an oval shape.

[0166] The conical part then includes, for example, two diametrically opposed branches, one of which has a height relative to a center of the stake greater than the other two branches.

[0167] Above the platform, the head has a 410 locking pin.

[0168] The locking pin 410 has a main part 411, cylindrical with a circular cross-section, and here two fingers 412 extending diametrically opposite each other from a top surface of the main part, and at a distance from the plate 413. Thus, the locking pin 410 is for example configured to fit into the opening 24 of the shutter and the fingers 412 allow the stake 40 to be fixed by rotating it, the fingers 412 then sliding on the inner face 21 until they come to rest on the stops 242 while the plate 413 is in contact with the outer face 22 of the shutter 20.

[0169] The locking pin 410 is also configured to wedge itself into the first fastening system 230, with the upper surface of the main part 411 then opposite the opening 231.

[0170] It is therefore easy to press on the upper surface of the main part 411 through the opening 231 to dislodge the stake and possibly extract it from the body of the coil 10.

[0171] From the head 41, the rod 42 has a main section 420 of constant cross-section which forms the part configured to cooperate with the bore of the coil body to allow the coil body to rotate.

[0172] The stem 42 further includes a circumferential notch 421, formed between the main section 420 and the tip 43.

[0173] The notch 421 thus forms a double axial stop, because when the rod 42 is inserted into the cutout 341 of the finned shutter 30 and is pivoted, then the rod is immobilized axially with respect to the finned shutter 30.

[0174] In particular, the notch 421 is configured to cooperate with the wall 345 of the finned shutter 30.

[0175] Indeed, by inserting the rod through the cutout 341 in the wall 345 of the finned shutter 30, the branches extending between the point 43 and the circumferential notch 421 pass through the lobes 343 and the main section 420 then comes to rest against the wall 345. Then by pivoting the stake, one end of the branches extending from the point 43 engage and slide on the inner face of the wall 345 until they come to rest against the stops 344.

[0176] The wall 345 then becomes wedged in the circumferential notch 421.

[0177] It is then possible to pull the stake 40 which thus drives the finned shutter 30, which separates from the body of the reel 10.

[0178] According to an interesting option illustrated here, stake 40 has an electrical connector 414.

[0179] The electrical connector 414 here has a metal strip embedded in the surface of the fingers 412.

[0180] There figure 5 then illustrates very schematically an electronic control module 50.

[0181] The electronic control module 50 here includes a functional module 51, for example here an electronic board, which includes for example at least one radio signal communication module, configured to communicate with a console, whether it be a control or programming console, optionally an optical (light) communication module.

[0182] In addition, it includes here a protective coating 52 (optional), configured to protect the functional module 51.

[0183] The protective coating 52 is, for example, an overmolding made on the functional module 51.

[0184] Here the protective coating 52 partially covers the functional module 51, and a part of the functional module 51 outside the protective coating 52 includes in particular a lower plate 53 which is configured to fit into the fixing system 220 of the shutter 20, in particular to cooperate with the slot to hold the electronic module in position on the shutter 20.

[0185] Here, the electronic control module 50, and in particular the functional module 51, includes a functional part of the electronic circuit, as well as an energy part.

[0186] The energy section includes, for example, a 54 battery.

[0187] As illustrated by the figure 5C In the present embodiment, the functional part of the electronic circuit includes an electrical contact range 55, and the power part includes an electrical contact range 56.

[0188] The electrical contact areas 55, 56 here form a connection interface 57 of the electronic control module.

[0189] The connection interface 57 is thus configured to be connected to the electrical connector 414 of the stake which thus allows the energy part to be electrically connected to the functional part of the functional module when the detonator is in use configuration for example.

[0190] Here, part of the protective coating 52 covers the connection interface, and also includes a raised bead 58 that is thicker than the connection interface 57.

[0191] The bead 58 contributes to a contact seal when the connection interface 57 is brought into contact with the electrical connector 414 of the stake (illustrated figure 4 ).

[0192] THE figures 6 à 11 then illustrate an assembly of the elements presented in relation to the figures 1 à 5 and different possible configurations of a detonator according to an example of an embodiment of the invention.

[0193] Thus, for example, the figure 6A shows in perspective the coil 10 in the body of which are housed the electronic module 50 and the stake 40, which are supported by the shutter 20.

[0194] Apart from the primer which is not shown, nor a fortiori the cable linking it to module 50, the coil is then in a configuration corresponding to a detonator storage configuration.

[0195] On the figure 6A The 30-bladed shutter closes the second end of the reel body, while it has been removed on the figure 6B .

[0196] There figure 7 illustrates the arrangement of the stake 40 and the electronic module 50 fixed to the shutter 20, in particular on its inner face 21, as they are when retracted into the spool body, as illustrated figure 6 .

[0197] As explained above, to extract the stake, it is therefore possible to push on its head through the opening 231 of the shutter, or simply pull it by the rod 42. The electronic control module 50 is also held in the reel body at least in part by the shutter.

[0198] But the shutter is not essential and could be replaced by a simple sliding system at the level of the main compartment of the reel body to hold the electronic module by adjustment.

[0199] There figure 8 illustrates a stake positioning, for example for a detonator installation configuration, to rotate the coil body.

[0200] For this purpose, the rod 42 of the stake is inserted into the window 24, and the conical part of the head 41 of the stake comes to rest against the central part of the window 24.

[0201] It is therefore possible to rotate the body of the reel 10 around the stake 40.

[0202] There figure 9 illustrates the fixing of stake 40 in its second position, and in order to remove the electronic module from the body of the reel.

[0203] The locking pin 410 of the stake head is oriented so that the fingers 412 are opposite the ears 241 of the window 24 ( figure 9A ).

[0204] The locking pin 410 can then be pushed into the window 24 until the plate 413 is abutted against the external surface 22 of the shutter ( figure 9B ).

[0205] The stake is then pivoted. On the inner face, the fingers 412 slide on the inner face 21 until they come against the stops 242 ( figure 9C ).

[0206] The stake is then locked in position.

[0207] By pulling on the stake, the shutter's fastening system 210 detaches from the body 11 of the reel 10, and the shutter 20 thus allows the electronic control module 50 to be removed, at least partially, from the body 11 of the reel ( figure 9D ). At the same time, as illustrated by the figure 10 , the electrical connector 414 of the stake comes into contact with the connection interface 57. In this configuration, analogous to a detonator usage configuration, the electrical connector 414 electrically connects the electrical contact range 55 of the functional part of the electronic circuit and the electrical contact range 56 of the energy part which are here included in the functional module 51. The electronic control module 50 is thus activated.

[0208] Thus, the main function of shutter 20 is to hold the electronic module, and also allows connection with stake 40.

[0209] The stake 40 locks onto the shutter 20 supporting the electronic module 50, and it also allows it to be moved away from the wall.

[0210] This function can also be achieved by a simple sliding system (on the stake and the shutter) without the implementation of the locking function.

[0211] If the cable has been fully unwound from the reel, there is no need to remove the electronic module from the reel body; otherwise (Faraday cage effect), the stake attached to the shutter allows the electronic module to be removed from the reel body, as described above.

[0212] The stake, electronic module and shutter assembly (with or without the coil body) is then planted in a wall (e.g. in a pile of fine rocks, drilling residues) thanks to the shape of the stake.

[0213] As an addition or alternative, the stake 40 can be attached to the winged shutter 30 as shown in the figure 11 .

[0214] For this purpose, the rod 42 of the stake is inserted into the cutout 341 of the wall 345 of the finned shutter ( figure 11A ) until part of the rod comes to rest against the wall 345 ( figure 11B ).

[0215] Then the stake is pivoted ( figure 11C ), and wall 345 is wedged into circumferential notch 421.

[0216] It is then possible to separate the finned shutter 30 from the spool body by pulling on the stake 40 ( figure 11D ).

[0217] There figure 12 Finally, it illustrates a combination of the provisions shown on the figures 10 And 11 .

[0218] The stake 40 is then fixed both to the shutter 20 supporting the electronic module 50, and to the finned shutter 30.

[0219] The winged obturator 30 is, for example, particularly convenient for being fixed at the exit of a hole, for example a hole at the bottom of which the primer is positioned.

[0220] Furthermore, this configuration also ensures a predefined height between the electronic module 50 and the wall. Indeed, the finned shutter 30 limits the penetration of the stake 40 into the wall, or even into the hole.

[0221] There figure 12 illustrates a configuration of use without the reel; however, depending on the cable unwinding, it is possible to leave the reel attached to the shutter 20. For an underground application (for example for a hole drilled horizontally in a tunnel-type gallery, or drilled vertically in an arch), the finned shutter shape 30 proves useful, as does the finned collar 120 of the reel.

[0222] As a first example, if the cable is fully unwound, it is possible to use either the 30-finned gate or the 120-finned collar to position the reel body (containing the electronic module) at the borehole entrance. The choice depends, for example, on the borehole dimensions and whether the 30-finned gate and / or 120-finned collar is used.

[0223] According to a second example, if the reel still has some wound cable remaining, it may be more advantageous to first lock the stake onto the winged shutter 30 and then lock this new assembly onto the shutter 20 supporting the electronic module (as illustrated). figure 12 ) in order to place the resulting assembly at the entrance of the borehole (the output of the electronic module 50 of the coil body 11 remaining optional, depending on the remaining cable still wound).

[0224] Since the diameters of the 120 fin flange of the coil body and the 30 finned obturator are different, using either one allows for adaptation to different drill hole diameters. This can be further enhanced by the fact that the fins of both the 30 finned obturator and the 120 finned flange have a degree of structural flexibility, facilitating adaptation of either the 30 finned obturator or the 120 finned flange to the drill hole as required.

[0225] The functions presented, integrated into the coil body, allow for limiting the modifications required to a detonator coil.

[0226] All these functions are also compatible with the insertion of the primer into the reel body, which is then protected and secured, particularly during transport.

[0227] It is then possible to avoid using an external tool to unwind the coil and install the detonator, since the stake (the unwinding tool) can be integrated into the coil).

Claims

1. A detonator spool (10) including at least one body (11) configured to receive a cable wound around the body, the body (11) including at least one housing configured to receive a primer, an electronic control module housing (16a) configured to receive an electronic control module (50), and a bore (14) forming a hub configured to make the body of the spool (10) rotate, characterised in that the spool includes a cap (20) configured to be fastened to a first end (12) of the body (11) of the spool, the cap (20) includes an inner face (21) and an outer face (22), opposite the inner face, and the inner face (21) includes a fastening system (210) configured to fasten the cap (20) to the first end (12) of the body (11) of the spool (10).

2. The spool (10) according to claim 1, characterised in that it includes a housing (16b) configured to receive a stake (40), the stake being configured to form a pivot connection with the bore (14) forming a hub.

3. The spool (10) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterised in that it includes a fin collar (120) which surrounds the first end (12) of the body (11).

4. The spool (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the inner face (21) of the cap (20) includes a system for fastening the electronic control module (220), the fastening system (220) being configured to fasten the electronic control module (50) to the cap (20).

5. The spool (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the cap (20) includes a first system for fastening the stake (230), the first fastening system (230) being configured to fasten the stake (40) to the cap (20) at a first location extending from the inner face (21) of the cap (20).

6. The spool (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the cap (20) includes a second system for fastening the stake (240), the second fastening system (240) being configured to fasten the stake (40) to the cap (20) at a second location extending from the outer face (22) of the cap.

7. The spool (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that it includes a finned cap (30), the finned cap (30) including a central portion (31) and a fin collar (32) surrounding the central portion (31), and in that the finned cap (30) is configured to be fastened to a second end (13) of the body (11) of the spool (10).

8. An electronic detonator including an electronic control module (50), an explosive primer, and a connection cable connecting the primer and the electronic control module (50), the detonator being characterised in that it further includes a spool (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, and the detonator including a storage configuration in which the electronic control module (50) is housed in the corresponding housing (16a) of the spool, the primer is housed in the corresponding housing of the spool, and the connection cable between the electronic control module (50) and the primer is wound around the body (11) of the spool (10).

9. The detonator according to claim 8, characterised in that the spool further includes a stake (40), and in that the stake (40) includes a portion configured to cooperate with the bore (14) to form the pivot connection, and at least one stop, configured to limit an insertion of the stake into the bore (14).

10. The detonator according to claims 8 and 9, characterised in that, in the storage configuration, the cap (20) is fastened to a first end (12) of the body of the spool, and the electronic control module (50) and the stake (40) are fastened to the inner face (21) of the cap (20), and the stake (40) is accommodated, in its housing (16b), in the body (11) of the spool (10).

11. The detonator according to any one of claims 9 or 10, characterised in that it includes an installation configuration in which a portion of the stake (40) is inserted into the bore (14) forming a hub of the spool (11), thereby forming a pivot connection configured to make the body of the spool (11) rotate about the stake (40).

12. The detonator according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterised in that it includes a use configuration in which the stake (40) is fastened to the outer face (22) of the cap.

13. The detonator according to claim 12, characterised in that the stake (40) includes an electrical connector (414) and the electronic control module (50) includes a connection interface (57), and in that, in the use configuration, the electrical connector (414) is electrically connected with the connection interface (57) allowing electrical connection of an energy portion to a functional portion of the electronic control module (50).