"universal electronic detonators"

Abstract

The disclosed novel network topology has been developed for the deployment of detonators, enabling the acquisition of detonator information without the need for field programming. This advancement facilitates the emulation of the functionality of Nonel detonators, thereby allowing the detonators to be utilized without programming to achieve sequential detonation. Consequently, the deployment and programming time of the detonators are significantly reduced, leading to enhanced utilization of manpower and decreased downtime in mining operations.

Description

[0001] LR-AAR-3018 “UNIVERSAL ELECTRONIC DETONATORS”

[0002] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to working of electronic detonators. More particularly the present invention relates to a network topology including a communication protocol and delay programming methodology for detonator networks adopted for the smooth and error free working of the electronic detonators. In addition, the present invention addresses half-duplex, noise-resistant daisy chain communication protocol operable over long distances using a single wire, with low power consumption, and an improved delay programming technique for efficient programming of detonators.

[0004] BACKGROUND ART

[0005] The existing electronic detonator system involves individually programming detonators with different delay timings using a field logger, which is timeconsuming and prone to human error. Skilled programmers are needed for this task. The system does not automatically or reliably track the exact number of armed detonators. Extensive retraining of blasting personnel is required for programming, checking, and firing. Remote arming and firing by authorized personnel, along with automated tracking of detonators during arming, are not available.

[0006] Both arming and operating functions are handled by the same handheld device onsite, without personnel separation. Programming the existing electronic detonators for onsite deployment requires significant time and effort. Identifying faults in detonator deployment, such as circuit failures and connection faults, is challenging, and operators must manually map each detonator's serial number to its location. There is no provision for an expiry date in the detonators to inform the system when they become inactive. Blast timing programming is not directly integrated with blast optimization software, requiring the downloading of timings into the handheld device for programming by the blasting officer. Geofencing of detonators is not implemented.

[0007] iLR-AAR-3018 In conventional detonator networks, programming individual detonators requires manual intervention, leading to inefficiencies and safety concerns. Existing communication protocols are either susceptible to noise or require high power, limiting their effectiveness over long distances. There exists a need for a robust, efficient, and low-power communication protocol capable of supporting a detonator network with a daisy chain topology, while also enabling simultaneous programming of multiple nodes.

[0008] In the prior art a PCT application WO2021229597A1 filed by the applicant themselves discloses an electronic system for controlled sequential detonation comprising: a plurality of control module(s), wherein each control module comprises of an electronic circuit connected to a detonator; and an exploder, wherein the exploder is connected to at least one control module through at least one connector; wherein, a plurality of set, each including said control module and the detonator, arranged in series / parallel such that one control module is connected to an adjacent control module in series / parallel or combination of series and parallel creating a serial detonation.

[0009] In another prior art a Chinese Patent CN109764779B, discloses a digital electronic detonator detonation system and a method based on a double-wire bus, wherein a network topology structure of the detonation system is constructed, and the detonation system comprises a detonator, detonator information injection equipment, a digital electronic detonator, a nonpolar double-wire bus capable of communicating and supplying power and the like; defining the structure of the initiator, the functions of a mandatory module and an optional module and a supported communication instruction set; the equipment and the specific process required by the information injection of the digital electronic detonator are listed; defining and standardizing the detonation flow, including work code application and decryption, detonation field operation and information return after detonation. In another prior art a PCT application W02020128300A1, discloses a method for igniting a set of electronic detonators, each electronic detonator having an associated firing delay, the method includes reception, by a reception device associated with one or more electronic detonators of a firing command among a sequence of firing commands issued comprising at least two firing commands, a synchronization delay being associated with each firing command; count from theLR-AAR-3018 moment of receipt of said firing command, the synchronization delay associated with said firing command received; count of said firing delay associated with each electronic detonator from a synchronization instant corresponding to the instant at which said count of the synchronization delay is finalized; and firing of each electronic detonator when said counting of said firing delay is finalized.

[0010] In another prior art a Chinese Patent application CN115493464A discloses a method and a system for improving communication networking capability of an electronic detonator, which comprises the following steps: the initiator carries out online roll calling of the networking detonators by sending a plurality of scanning instructions, and information of a detonator is read in each scanning; the electronic detonator chip receives a scanning instruction of the detonator, and uploads data to the detonator bit by bit in a current feedback mode; if the current uploaded data is 1, closing a feedback switch; if the current uploaded data is 0, the feedback switch is not closed; monitoring the feedback conditions of other detonators on the bus, if other detonators are fed back, the current detonators quit the current scanning process, the power supply path switch is disconnected, and the communication capacitor supplies power for maintaining work temporarily; if there is no other detonator feedback, then it continues to remain in the feedback mode. In yet another prior art a Chinese Patent specification CN115164658A discloses automatic on-line system and a communication method for a digital electronic detonator. The code electronic detonator automatic on-line system comprises a plurality of digital electronic detonators connected in parallel and initiation equipment in communication connection with the digital electronic detonators; the primer is used for sending an inquiry broadcast instruction, an ADDR reset instruction and an ADDR UID reading instruction to the digital electronic detonator, and receiving and analyzing a digital electronic detonator reply signal; the digital electronic detonator is used for responding and replying the inquiry broadcast instruction, the ADDR reset instruction and the ADDR UID reading instruction of the detonating equipment, and establishing communication to finish automatic on-line. By adopting the communication method, the detonation equipment can automatically read the UID information of all digital electronic detonators in an unknown digital electronic detonator network, thereby avoiding the complex operations of charged registration and non-charged registration.LR-AAR-3018 SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0011] The present invention overcomes the problem regarding existing electronic detonator system involves individually programming detonators with different at least one delay timings using a field logger, which is time-consuming and prone to human error.

[0012] In an embodiment there is provided a detonator system, operable in a factory set mode, configured to function without necessitating field programming, comprising of a topology resembling that of a non-electric detonator, where each detonator within said system configured with preset timings, including any one from short delay or a long delay and the said preset timings facilitates a sequential blast initiation.

[0013] In an embodiment the system is configured automatically or reliably track the exact number of armed detonators vide extensive retraining of blasting personnel is required for programming, checking, and firing.

[0014] In another embodiment there is provided remote arming and firing by authorized personnel, along with automated tracking of detonators during arming, are not available.

[0015] In another embodiment the both arming and operating functions are handled by the same handheld device onsite, without personnel separation. In another embodiment, the network connection is configured for all protocol namely serial and parallel / branched.

[0016] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a daisy chain communication protocol and delay programming methodology that overcomes the drawbacks of conventional systems. The communication protocol utilizes a half-duplex, customized approach that ensures reliable data transmission over long distances exceeding 500meters, using a single wire operating within a voltage range of 5V to 100V. The protocol employs uniquely shaped high pulses of varying frequency and duration to differentiate between binary states (0 and 1), with data transmission speeds reaching up to 10 KB / s.

[0017] Each node in the network transmits data packets to adjacent nodes, which process and determine whether to send the information upstream orLR-AAR-3018 downstream. The protocol incorporates a sleep mode, reducing power consumption to below 2 microamps, allowing for the use of extremely thin wires. Nodes wake up only upon receiving relevant information, drawing between 100 to 1000 microamps.

[0018] In an exemplary embodiment there is provided a novel delay programming methodology is also disclosed, allowing the entire network to be programmed simultaneously instead of programming each detonator individually. The daisy chain system ensures that each node identifies its topology ID, enabling precise delay setting commands from a central controller. Branching boxes facilitate tree-shaped topologies resembling conventional non-electric detonator networks.

[0019] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1 illustrates network topology for connection of proposed electronic detonators, in accordance with the present invention;

[0021] Figure 2 illustrates working of the proposed electronic detonator network in accordance with the present invention;

[0022] Figure 3 illustrates Communication and connection diagrams between each node in accordance with the present invention.

[0023] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The herein proposed novel network topology has been developed for the deployment of detonators, enabling the acquisition of detonator information without the need for field programming. This advancement facilitates the emulation of the functionality of Nonel detonators, thereby allowing the detonators to be utilized without programming to achieve sequential detonation. Consequently, the deployment and programming time of the detonators are significantly reduced, leading to enhanced utilization of manpower and decreased downtime in mining operations.LR-AAR-3018 However, for specific delay requirements, programming is still necessary. Detonators can be programmed individually or multiple detonators can be programmed simultaneously.

[0025] The disclosed invention significantly improves the safety, efficiency, and reliability of detonator networks by eliminating manual programming, reducing power consumption, and ensuring robust communication over long distances.

[0026] As shown in Fig 1, in the Network topology for connection of proposed electronic detonators, the connection can be both serial and parallel / branched. Each Electronic Detonator (ED) will have 3 / 4 wires as input and 3 / 4 wires as output. When Branching is required a Branch Box will be provided which will have 3 / 4 wire input and multiple outputs of 3 / 4 wires. Two wires will be for power and 1 / 2 wires will be for bidirectional communication.

[0027] A) Factory Set mode

[0028] The present invention can function without on field programming in factory set mode. This will function like a non-electric detonator function's. It will have 2 factory programmed delays, 1stShort delay - after expiry of this delay, it will trigger adjacent detonator / detonators, 2ndlong delay- after expiry of this delay it will trigger the fuse head and initiate the explosives. In this system after connecting all the detonators and forming the network. The blasting / checking (this will be handheld) will automatically know the serial numbers of the detonators connected in the network without any need of user to scan, digitally read or enter each detonator serial number manually.

[0029] Therefore, any blasting operative who knows how to use non- electric detonators can use this device in factory set mode with minimum / no additional training. A hand-held checking device will check all the connections and will display the number of detonators present in the network, along with number of branches done. In case the user finds that the number of detonators displayed are not equal to the ones present on the field he can find the defective detonator and replace the connection.LR-AAR-3018 B) Programming Mode- In programmable mode - the short delays and long delays of the detonators can be programmed for the entire network or individual detonators or even through a blasting software by personnel sitting at a remote location through internet. Further addition of GPS, remote firing and arming can give complete control of the blast initiation to authorized personnel who are sitting at a remote location.

[0030] Working of the Proposed Electronic detonator Network- As shown in Fig 2, each ED will have 3 / 4 input wires, where the 1st and 2nd wire are adapted to provide power. The 3rd / 4th Wire (Bidirectional Communication Channel) receive and send signal to adjacent ED, Branching Box. Each ED will have 3 / 4 output wires and the 1st and 2nd wire are adapted to provide power to adjacent ED. The 3rd / 4th wire are adapted to send / receive signal to adjacent ED, Branching Box and terminator box.

[0031] The Blasting and Checking Device (BCD) will initiate a signal to check how many ED are connected in the system. The first ED will forward the signal to the next ED and increase the counter by 1 and send its unique serial number back to the BCD, and this will continue until the terminator block is reached.

[0032] If a branch box is encountered with any error, the signal will be passed along one branch, until it reaches the terminal box. Once the signal of 1 branch reaches the terminator box and the signal is received back from the terminator

[0033] box the branch box will initiate the second branch and the same process repeats. Once the BCD have received all the serial numbers of ED in the network and the user agrees to the number detected, it will initiate the arming sequence.

[0034] After Each ED is armed and the feedback for each ED is received by the BCD it will give the firing signal which will start detonating each detonator. After receiving the Firing Signal the first ED starts 2 preprogrammed counters under factory set mode.

[0035] 1) Short Delay - After expiry of this delay it will give Firing signal to the adjacent ED to start its 2 countersLR-AAR-3018 2) Long Delay - After expiry of this delay the fuse head will be initiated to create the detonation.

[0036] Communication Protocol:

[0037] As shown in fig 3, the present invention introduces an innovative daisy chain communication protocol specifically designed for detonator networks. The system is structured to facilitate seamless communication between detonators while ensuring precise control over detonation timing.

[0038] The detonator network operates using a unique half-duplex data exchange mechanism, allowing data transmission across distances exceeding 500 meters via a single wire. This long-distance operability ensures robust performance even in complex mining environments. The network is designed to function within a voltage range of 5V to 100V, making it highly adaptable to different power requirements.

[0039] The communication protocol is based on a modulation scheme that employs high pulses of varying frequency and duration to encode binary states. This customized encoding technique enhances noise resistance, ensuring reliable operation in environments with high electromagnetic interference. The data transmission rate can reach up to 10 KB / s, allowing rapid exchange of control commands and detonator status updates.

[0040] Each detonator node within the network is equipped with a packet relay structure, enabling bidirectional communication. When a command or signal is sent from the master controller, it is processed and relayed by each node to the next, ensuring efficient propagation throughout the network. This relay-based transmission system eliminates the need for complex wiring, significantly reducing installation complexity and cost.

[0041] To further enhance power efficiency, the system incorporates a sleep mode mechanism, wherein nodes consume less than 2 microamps of power when inactive. This power-saving feature allows for the use of extremely thin wires without compromising network integrity. When a detonator node receives relevantLR-AAR-3018 data, it exits sleep mode, drawing between lOOto 1000 microamps to process and forward the received information.

[0042] Additionally, the present invention introduces a branching box structure to facilitate tree topology formations. These branching boxes enable flexible network configurations, allowing multiple detonators to be connected in parallel while maintaining efficient data communication. This structure effectively replicates conventional non-electric detonator networks, ensuring seamless integration into existing mining operations.

[0043] Delay Programming Methodology

[0044] Traditional detonator systems require manual programming of each detonator, a process that is both time-consuming and prone to human error. The present invention overcomes this limitation by introducing a novel delay programming methodology that enables simultaneous programming of the entire detonator network.

[0045] When the network is deployed, the first node receives a command from the master controller, which contains delay settings for the entire system. This command is processed and relayed to adjacent nodes in a sequential manner, ensuring each detonator receives its designated timing parameters. This eliminates the need for manual intervention, significantly reducing setup time and potential programming errors.

[0046] Each detonator node is assigned a unique topology ID, which allows the master controller to issue precise delay-setting commands. By referencing these unique identifiers, the system can program individual nodes or apply a uniform delay configuration across the entire network. This approach ensures accurate detonation sequences, improving the overall efficiency and safety of blasting operations.LR-AAR-3018 To accommodate complex network configurations, the programming methodology also integrates a hierarchical packet routing mechanism. When encountering a branching box, the delay-setting command first traverses one branch before moving to the next, ensuring all connected nodes receive their respective timing instructions. This intelligent routing system prevents data loss and ensures consistent programming across all detonators.

[0047] Example: In a large-scale mining operation, multiple detonators are deployed across different blasting zones. Instead of manually setting delay times for each detonator, the present system allows the entire network to be programmed in a single step. The master controller transmits a delay-setting command, which propagates through the daisy chain, configuring each node accordingly. This approach not only streamlines the programming process but also enhances precision and reliability in detonation sequences.

[0048] WORKING OF THE PROPOSED ELECTRONIC DETONATOR NETWORK

[0049] Each electronic detonator (ED) in the network is designed with multiple input and output wires. The first and second wires serve as power connections, while the third and fourth wires facilitate bidirectional communication between adjacent detonators and branching boxes.

[0050] The system employs a handheld Blasting and Checking Device (BCD) to initiate network diagnostics before detonation. When activated, the BCD sends a signal through the network, prompting each detonator to respond with its unique serial number. This process enables the system to automatically verify the number of connected detonators and detect any missing or faulty nodes.

[0051] If an error is detected, the user can isolate and replace the defective detonator before proceeding with the blasting sequence. Once verification is complete, the BCD initiates the arming process, ensuring each detonator is prepared for activation.LR-AAR-3018 Upon receiving the final firing command, the first detonator triggers a sequence of preprogrammed delays. The short delay initiates the next detonator in the sequence, while the long delay ultimately activates the fuse head, leading to explosive detonation. This sequential activation process ensures controlled and precise blasting operations.

[0052] The disclosed invention significantly improves the safety, efficiency, and reliability of detonator networks by eliminating manual programming, reducing power consumption, and ensuring robust communication over long distances.

[0053] Inventive step:

[0054] 1) For sequential blasting of explosives.

[0055] 2) For simple user-friendly detonators to be used in blasting with precision delay time between each blast hole.

[0056] 3) Each detonator can be accurately tracked till its expiry / blast.

[0057] 4) Advance safety security and tracking, as these can be armed by an authorized person who is at a remote location.

[0058] 5) In the factory set mode, can be used by blasting personnel who are trained to use Nonel detonators without additional training.

[0059] 6) Can also be used as an advance electronically programmable detonator with direct integration with blasting software.

[0060] 7) Accurate delay timings

[0061] Delay programming methodology- (a) In conventional system individual detonators need to be programmed by going to the hole, in this system we can program the entire network simultaneously.

[0062] (b) The first node of the system receives command from the master, this node process the command which could be to set its delay or set the delay of the adjacent node.LR-AAR-3018 (c) As this is a daisy chain system the packet hopes from the 1st node to the last node passing each node. Hence the network knows the position of the topology id of each node.

[0063] (d) Hence after connecting the entire network (same as in NONEL) we can set the delay of individual detonators / node with just one command and do not require programming of individual nodes.

[0064] (e) Incas a special delay needs to be set for an individual node, the same can be done from a single point by specifying the topology id.

[0065] (f) In case a branching box is encountered the packet first jumps the first branch of and then the second till it finds its intended destination.

[0066] ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[0067] • Enables long-distance communication using a single wire with high noise resistance.

[0068] • Significantly reduces power consumption, allowing for the use of thin wires.

[0069] • Provides a reliable and efficient method for detonator delay programming where additional short delay may or may not be present for triggering the adjacent detonator.

[0070] • Eliminates the need for manual programming of individual detonators.

[0071] • Enhances safety and operational efficiency in blasting applications.

[0072] • Facilitates scalable and flexible network configurations using branching boxes.

[0073] While the present invention has been described with reference to a specific preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that various modifications and changes could be made to this embodiment without departing from the scope of the invention. The above-mentioned description is provided to serve the purpose of clarifying the aspects of the invention, and it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that they do not serve to limit the scope of the invention. By way of example, the total arrangement of the different sections is customized. All modifications and improvements have been incorporated herein for the sake of conciseness and readability but are properly within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

LR-AAR-3018 CLAIMS:

1. A detonator system, operable in a factory- set mode, configured to function without necessitating field programming, the system comprising:a plurality of electronic detonators configured to form a network topology resembling a non-electric detonator system, wherein each electronic detonator is configured with at least one preset / programmable delay for triggering the fuse a daisy chain communication protocol facilitating sequential data transmission among the electronic detonators, employing a half-duplex customized approach that ensures reliable data transmission over long distances exceeding 500 meters, using a single wire operating within a voltage range of 5V to 100V;a plurality of high pulses of varying frequency and duration to encode binary states, achieving data transmission speeds of up to 10 KB / s;a sleep mode mechanism that reduces power consumption to below 2 microamps when inactive and increases to between 100 to 1000 microamps upon receiving relevant information;a branching box configured to facilitate tree-shaped network topology for scalability and resembling conventional non-electric detonator networks;a master controller including a blasting and checking device (BCD) configured to automatically identify and track the number of armed detonators, verify network integrity, detect faulty detonators, and initiate arming and firing sequences remotely.

2. The detonator system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each electronic detonator is assigned a unique topology ID to enable precise delay setting commands from the master controller.

3. The detonator system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the daisy chain communication protocol employs uniquely shaped high pulses to differentiate between binary states (0 and 1) for robust noise resistance.LR-AAR-3018 4. The detonator system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sleep mode allows the detonator nodes to consume minimal power and wake up only upon receiving relevant activation signals.

5. The detonator system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system facilitates both serial and parallel / branched connections to optimize blasting sequences.

6. The detonator system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said blasting and checking device (BCD) is a handheld device adapted to remotely arm, verify, and track detonators within the network.

7. The detonator system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the master controller is further configured to enable remote programming of the short and long delays of the detonators through a networked interface, allowing personnel to program detonators from a remote location.

8. The detonator system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the branching box allows the system to function in a manner similar to conventional non-electric detonator networks, ensuring seamless integration with existing mining operations.

9. The detonator system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the master controller is further configured to integrate with blasting software for automated sequencing and detonation control.

10. The detonator system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said network utilizes topology ID-based delay assignment to enable precise timing of detonator activation.

11. A method for controlling and programming a detonator system, the method comprising:performing deployment of a plurality of electronic detonators in a daisy chain network, each configured with at least one preset delay timers: for sequential triggering explosive;LR-AAR-3018 transmitting data among detonators using a half-duplex communication protocol over a single wire, wherein binary states (0 and 1) are encoded using uniquely shaped high pulses of varying frequency and duration;automatically detecting and tracking detonators in the network using a handheld blasting and checking device (BCD), eliminating the need for manual programming or scanning;enabling a sleep mode mechanism wherein detonators consume power below 2 microamps when inactive and between 100 to lOOOmicroamps upon receiving relevant information;allowing programming of detonators through a master controller, wherein each detonator is assigned a unique topology ID and delay settings are communicated to all detonators simultaneously;integrating branching boxes to facilitate a tree-like network topology, ensuring robust and scalable detonator connectivity;arming the detonators upon verification of network integrity using the handheld BCD; andperforming a triggering detonation by initiating a firing command that activates the first detonator, wherein the short delay transmits a triggering signal to the adjacent detonator, and the long delay activates the fuse head to initiate detonation.

12. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein the master controller enables remote programming of the short and long delays of the detonators via a networked interface.

13. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein the communication protocol ensures data transmission reliability by employing uniquely shaped pulses resistant to electromagnetic interference.

14. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein branching boxes facilitate the formation of parallel / branched detonator networks, mimicking conventional nonelectric detonator configurations.LR-AAR-3018 15. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein detonators are programmed simultaneously instead of individually, reducing setup time and eliminating manual programming errors.

16. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein the master controller automatically retrieves the serial numbers of all connected detonators and displays the total count to the user for verification.

17. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein the blasting and checking device (BCD) verifies the number of detonators present and detects any errors before initiating the arming sequence.

18. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein each detonator node processes received data packets and determines whether to forward the information upstream or downstream based on network topology.

19. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein upon detecting a faulty detonator, the system automatically isolates and removes the defective detonator before proceeding with the arming sequence.

20. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein the detonator system is integrated with a blasting software system to automate the delay programming and firing sequence; andthe detonators in the network are adapted to be triggered simultaneously as well.

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