Electronic Detonator Array Identity Code Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blasting systems using two wires are cost-effective but lack the flexibility to visualize and configure blast patterns accurately, especially in environments where GPS signals are blocked or unreliable, and require manual assignment of blast times.
Innovation Solution
A method that assigns unique identity codes to each detonator based on its location within an array, using a portable device to generate and store these codes, which are then used to determine firing times and transmit firing signals through a control unit, allowing for flexible configuration and visualization of the blast pattern.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a two-wire blasting system is used, then the cost of wire and components is reduced, but the ability to visualize and configure blast patterns accurately is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the identification function by assigning unique identity codes to individual detonators based on their positional coordinates (row, column, depth) within the blast array. This segmentation allows the control system to track and visualize each detonator's location independently, enabling blast pattern configuration even with simple two-wire connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary identification system using unique codes assigned to each detonator based on its position in the array. This intermediary layer bridges the gap between the simple two-wire connection and the need for complex blast pattern visualization, allowing the control system to map detonator positions and render blast patterns without requiring multiple physical wires.
2Measurement precision
If GPS is used to determine detonator location, then geographical positioning accuracy is improved, but the system becomes unreliable in environments with signal blockage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the positioning function from external GPS satellites and implements it locally within the blasting system. By assigning identity codes based on predetermined array positions (rows, columns, depths) rather than satellite-based coordinates, the system eliminates dependence on external signals while maintaining precise location tracking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the physical blast array structure by assigning coordinate-based identity codes to each detonator position. This virtual representation of the blast pattern allows for accurate visualization and configuration without requiring physical GPS signals, effectively copying the spatial relationships in a reliable digital format.
3Device complexity
If manual assignment of blast times is required, then system complexity is reduced, but productivity and accuracy of blast configuration decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically calculating and assigning blast times based on the predetermined identity codes and desired delay patterns. Instead of requiring manual timing assignments during operation, the system pre-computes the firing sequence based on position codes, significantly improving configuration efficiency while maintaining system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The blasting system provides self-service by automatically determining blast times from the identity codes assigned to each detonator. The control system uses the positional information embedded in the identity codes to automatically generate the firing sequence and delay patterns, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining operational simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a blasting system which includes a plurality of electronic detonators which are configured in a blast array which has at least one row and a plurality of detonators in the row, each detonator including a memory in which is stored at least a respective identity code which is dependent, at least, on the row on which the detonator is, and on the detonator's position in the row, a harness which interconnects the detonators, and at least one control unit, connected to the harness, which generates a signal to fire the detonators.