Multifunctional Plug for Seismic Detonators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detonators for seismic prospecting and mining applications require pre-assembled wires with connectors, necessitating stripping and potential voltage differences during connection, and are not impervious to liquids.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function plug design with a short-circuit bridge that short-circuits internal wires in transport, equalizing potential differences, and opens for use, allowing connection of non-stripped external wires without connectors, and a water-repellent gel for moisture protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pre-assembled wires with connectors are used, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but wire stripping and connector assembly are required, increasing operation complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The plug is designed to automatically strip the insulation of external wires and establish electrical contact with internal wires through its own structural elements (cutting contacts and plunger) during the insertion and actuation process, eliminating the need for separate stripping and connection operations
Solution Approach 2:
The functions of wire stripping, electrical connection establishment, and sealing are merged into a single integrated plug assembly that performs all these operations simultaneously through one actuation motion
2Adaptability or versatility
If internal wires are left open during transport, then readiness for use is maintained, but voltage potential differences and electrical hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The plug design allows dynamic switching of the internal wire circuit state between short-circuited (during transport and connection) and open (during application) conditions through the actuation of the cover, which moves the short-circuit bridge between contact and separation positions
Solution Approach 2:
The internal wires are pre-short-circuited during transport and storage to eliminate voltage potential differences before the actual application, and this short-circuit is automatically removed upon actuation to prepare for electrical connection
3Reliability
If connectors are added to external wires, then electrical connection is secured, but pre-assembly requirements increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The plug is designed as a universal interface that can accept plain external wires without connectors and perform all necessary functions (stripping, contacting, sealing) through its own integrated mechanisms, making the system adaptable to simple wire inputs while maintaining reliable connections
4Ease of operation
If the plug is opened for wire insertion, then wire connection is enabled, but liquid ingress risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
A sealing ring (O-ring) is incorporated into the plug structure that creates a flexible seal between the plug body and cover, maintaining liquid tightness while allowing the cover to be actuated for wire insertion and connection operations
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
Enables easy connection of standard wires without stripping, balances voltage potentials, and maintains moisture insulation, enhancing usability and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
the plug base body is filled with a water-repellent gel-like medium to protect against the ingress of moisture
Implementation Method 2
the short-circuit bridge is spring-loaded or a spring element which, in the second actuation stage, is pressed away from the electrical contact by the short-circuit stamp against its spring force
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an igniter (8) for seismic prospection or for mining applications or for use in the crude oil and natural gas industries, comprising a detonator (7) in which an explosive material, an igniting element and internal wires (4) for initiating the igniting element are arranged, wherein the internal wires (4) lead into a plug (1, 2) which is arranged at one end of the detonator (7). In order for the user of the igniter to be able to introduce external wires (6) into the plug (1, 2) without having to strip said wires of insulation beforehand, and, in the plug (1, 2), for the internal wires (4) to be electrically connected to the external wires (6), without the external wires (6) requiring any plug and socket connector or mating part of a plug and socket connector, according to the invention, the plug is designed as a multifunctional plug (1, 2).