Detonator Controller Using Inductive Kick for Low Voltage Charging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detonator installations face energy loss issues due to current leakage and low voltage supply, leading to functional limitations, particularly in charging the fire capacitor effectively.
Innovation Solution
A detonator installation with control equipment comprising a controller, inductor, switch, and protective diodes, which uses a magnetic field collapse to induce current and charge the capacitor safely, even with low voltage sources, and includes a removable inductor as a safety key.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a low voltage electrical energy source is used to supply power to the detonator installation, then the device can be operated with a limited power source, but the voltage available to charge the capacitor becomes too low for the arrangement to be functional
Solution Approach 1:
The controller repeatedly closes and opens the switch to generate periodic current pulses through the inductor, creating oscillating magnetic fields that induce voltage spikes to charge the capacitor. This periodic switching action transforms the low continuous voltage into sufficient charging voltage for the capacitor.
Solution Approach 2:
The inductor converts the low voltage, high current parameters from the power source into high voltage, low current pulses through electromagnetic induction. By changing the electrical parameters through the collapsing magnetic field, the system achieves the required voltage level for capacitor charging despite energy losses.
2Reliability
If the switch is closed to allow current flow through the inductor, then the capacitor can be charged, but current leakage and resistance cause energy losses that limit the voltage available
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts the harmful effect of energy losses into a beneficial outcome by using the controller to precisely time the switch operation. The controller compensates for energy losses by repeatedly cycling the switch, accumulating charge in the capacitor over multiple cycles despite the ongoing energy dissipation in the circuit.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the inductor is made physically removable to serve as a safety key, then unauthorized operation can be prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inductor serves multiple functions: it is an essential electrical component for generating the magnetic field needed to charge the capacitor, and simultaneously acts as a security key by being physically removable. This multi-functionality prevents unauthorized operation while maintaining the electrical functionality of the circuit.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively charges the capacitor with bursts of electrical charge, preventing overcharging and ensuring the detonator can be fired reliably, while maintaining intrinsic safety and preventing unauthorized operation.
Implementation Method 1
close the switch thereby to direct current from the voltage source through the inductor which then establishes a magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
open the switch so that the magnetic field collapses and generates a current which flows via the output terminals through the capacitor and the diode thereby to charge the capacitor
Data Source
AI summary
A detonator installation (10) in which a detonator fire capacitor (36) which is connected in series with an inductor (18) is charged from a low voltage source (16) by repeatedly opening and closing a switch (20) thereby to cause a collapsing magnetic field in the inductor (18) which results in a charging current flow to the capacitor (36).