Auto Logging Electronic Detonators via Serial Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electronic detonator logging methods require manual intervention, posing safety hazards and inefficiencies due to the need for on-site physical connection or optical scanning, which is time-consuming and necessitates additional personnel.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an auto-logging module within the detonator's control circuit or an external unit that enables remote and automated logging through detonator-to-detonator communication, eliminating the need for manual logging by using a specialized insulation displacement connector for secure and efficient connection of detonators in a logging circuit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual logging methods are used with physical connection or optical scanning, then logging can be performed, but safety hazards increase and operational efficiency decreases due to required on-site personnel presence
Solution Approach 1:
The detonator performs self-logging through its internal control circuit that automatically records logging status and transmits data without requiring external manual intervention. The system serves itself by generating and managing its own logging data, eliminating the need for personnel to physically connect or scan each detonator.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical logging operations (physical connection or optical scanning by personnel) with an automated electronic system. The control circuit automatically detects logging status and communicates with the blasting machine through electrical signals, substituting human mechanical actions with automated electronic processes.
2Measurement precision
If manual logging with physical connection is performed, then accurate logging can be achieved, but time consumption increases and additional personnel are required
Solution Approach 1:
The detonator automatically generates and transmits its own logging status data to the blasting machine without requiring external verification. The control circuit self-monitors logging conditions and communicates results, eliminating the time-consuming manual verification process while maintaining accuracy through electronic detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The logging process occurs continuously and automatically as part of the normal system operation. The control circuit continuously monitors logging status and maintains communication with the blasting machine, eliminating the discrete, time-consuming steps of manual connection and scanning required in traditional methods.
3Productivity
If automated remote logging is implemented, then safety and efficiency improve, but system complexity increases due to integration of auto-logging module
Solution Approach 1:
The auto-logging functionality is merged with the existing control circuit of the detonator. The logging module integrates with the firing control electronics, sharing common components such as the microprocessor, memory, and communication interfaces. This consolidation adds logging capability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit is designed to perform multiple functions: firing control, status monitoring, and automatic logging. By making the control circuit universal and multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate dedicated hardware for logging, thereby reducing the increase in system complexity while achieving automated remote logging capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A blasting system with automated detonator logging eliminates on-the-field manual logging of each detonator. Detonators are connected in sequence in an auto-logging circuit, and the blast machine initiates a logging operation in which each detonator receives and confirms an assigned sequence number along with assigned delay data. Elimination of manual logging by individuals increases safety in the blast zone and facilitates the blasting operation. The operation is simplified, likelihood of human error is reduced, and the cost of a separate logger device is eliminated. An auto-logging protocol may be incorporated into the control module of the electronic detonator. Alternately, an auto-logging module may be connected externally to each detonator similar to the conventional surface plus down-the-hole delay systems. The inventive system may include an IDC connector that facilitates the serial connection of the detonators for the logging circuit while allowing parallel connections of the blast control circuit.