Detonator Sensor Assembly Shock Tube Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensing assemblies in blasting systems are prone to malfunction due to exposure to high-pressure and high-temperature shock tube events, which can damage sensors and disrupt data transmission to electronic detonators.
Innovation Solution
A sensor assembly with a cylindrical support and a screen that protects sensors from direct exposure to shock tube events, featuring a combination of light, pressure, and plasma sensors, and a flexible or malleable support configured to house the sensors within a protective formation or surrounding the shock tube, allowing for safe detection of shock wave parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are exposed to shock tube events for detection, then sensing capability is improved, but sensor reliability deteriorates due to damage from high pressure and temperature
Solution Approach 1:
A screen is introduced as an intermediary element between the shock tube event and the sensors. The screen allows shock wave parameters (pressure, temperature, light) to pass through for detection while physically protecting sensors from direct exposure to damaging high-pressure and high-temperature gases and particles
Solution Approach 2:
The screen is implemented as a thin, flexible protective barrier that can withstand the shock tube environment while transmitting detection signals to the sensors. This thin-film structure maintains sensor protection without significantly impeding the detection of shock wave parameters
2Reliability
If sensors are protected from shock tube events, then sensor reliability is improved, but sensing capability deteriorates due to shielding
Solution Approach 1:
The screen is designed with location-specific properties: it is positioned at the shock tube end where maximum protection is needed, and its material properties are optimized to block harmful particles while transmitting detection-relevant signals (light, pressure waves, plasma) to the sensors
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are arranged on cylindrical support, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensors (light sensors, pressure sensors, plasma sensors) are merged onto a single cylindrical support structure, which also integrates the screen and positioning mechanisms. This consolidation reduces overall device complexity while maintaining multi-parameter detection accuracy
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 shields sensors from adverse effects, ensuring reliable data transmission and preventing detonator malfunctions by maintaining sensor integrity during shock tube events, thereby ensuring accurate and timely actuation of electronic detonators.
Implementation Method 1
a light sensor, capable of detecting light traveling down or emitted by the shock tube
Implementation Method 2
a pressure sensor and a plasma sensor for respectively sensing light changes, pressure changes and plasma generated by the shock tube event
Data Source
Figure 1A~3
AI summary
A sensor assembly for use in actuating an electronic detonator in response to a shock tube event propagated through a shock tube, the sensor assembly including support, and at least one sensor on a surface of the support, the support being configured to position the at least one sensor displaced laterally from a line of action of the shock tube event.