Electronic Detonator Identity Code Blast Pattern Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing two-wire blasting systems lack the ability to easily visualize and configure blast patterns, and GPS-based systems are not always accurate or cost-effective due to the need for additional wires and reference stations.
Innovation Solution
A method that assigns unique identity codes to each detonator based on its location in the array, using a portable device to generate and store these codes, and a control unit to manage firing times, allowing for flexible configuration and visualization of the blast pattern without the need for multiple wires or GPS reference stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a GPS-based system is used to determine detonator location and assign blast times, then the system can automatically configure blast patterns, but the system requires additional reference stations and has reduced accuracy when GPS signals are blocked by rock walls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary coding system that translates physical detonator positions into identity codes without requiring direct GPS measurement. A portable device acts as an intermediary tool that the blaster uses to manually input position information and generate codes, bridging the gap between simple two-wire connectivity and intelligent blast pattern configuration.
2Ease of operation
If a multi-wire system is used to establish connection order and determine blast timing, then the system is easier to use for configuring blast patterns, but the cost of wire and connection components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual representation of the physical blast pattern through identity codes that mirror the spatial arrangement of detonators. Instead of using multiple physical wires to encode position information, the system uses software-based identity codes that replicate the connectivity and timing relationships, reducing physical complexity while maintaining operational ease.
3Device complexity
If a two-wire system is used to interconnect detonators, then the cost of wire and components is reduced, but the system lacks the ability to easily visualize and configure blast patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/wiring-based method of establishing blast patterns with an electronic/software-based identity code system. The portable device and control system use digital coding and processing to visualize and configure blast patterns, substituting physical wiring complexity with electronic information processing while maintaining the simple two-wire physical connection.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides a blasting system which includes a plurality of electronic detonators (14) which are configured in a blast array (18) which has at least one row (20) and a plurality of detonators (14) in the row (20), each detonator (14) including a memory (34) in which is stored at least respective firing time information and a respective identity code (86) which is dependent, at least, on the row (20) in which the detonator (14) is, and on the detonator's (14) position in the row (20), a harness (16) which interconnects the detonators (14), and at least one control unit (70), connected to the harness (16), which generates a signal to fire the detonators (14).