Wireless Detonator Power Segmentation for Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless detonator systems pose safety concerns due to the risk of inadvertent detonator actuation from accidental or inappropriate application of operating power, which can lead to improper detonator activation and increased safety risks during mining operations.
Innovation Solution
A wireless detonator assembly with a power source sufficient for communication but insufficient to actuate the base charge, featuring a charge storage device that discharges only upon receipt of a specific FIRE signal, and a discharging mechanism to prevent accidental activation, ensuring the detonator remains in a safe mode unless properly signaled.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless detonator systems use a power source sufficient for communication operations, then the detonator can perform signal receiving and processing functions, but the risk of inadvertent detonator actuation increases due to accidental or inappropriate application of operating power to the firing circuitry
Solution Approach 1:
The power source is segmented into two distinct outputs: a first power output providing operating power for communication circuitry, and a second power output providing firing power for the firing circuitry. This segmentation ensures that the power sufficient for communication operations does not inadvertently activate the firing circuitry, as the firing circuitry requires a different power level and configuration that is only provided through the dedicated second power output.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the power source provide different qualities of power: the first power output provides low-power operating voltage suitable for communication operations, while the second power output provides high-power firing voltage capable of actuating the firing circuitry. This local quality differentiation ensures that operating power applied to communication circuitry cannot accidentally trigger the firing circuitry, as the power characteristics are locally optimized for their specific function.
2Extent of automation
If wireless detonator systems eliminate physical connections with blasting machines, then automation and remote operation are facilitated, but new safety challenges arise regarding inadvertent actuation from operating power
Solution Approach 1:
The power source is segmented into two distinct outputs: a first power output providing operating power for communication circuitry, and a second power output providing firing power for the firing circuitry. This segmentation ensures that the power sufficient for communication operations does not inadvertently activate the firing circuitry, as the firing circuitry requires a different power level and configuration that is only provided through the dedicated second power output.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless communication system acts as an intermediary between the blasting machine and the firing circuitry. Operating power transmitted wirelessly enables communication and control functions without establishing physical connections that could inadvertently trigger the firing circuitry. The wireless intermediary allows automated establishment and remote operation while maintaining safety through the separation of communication power and firing power pathways.
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
This design significantly reduces the risk of inadvertent detonator actuation, enhancing safety and allowing for remote setup and operation of blasting systems without the need for complex wiring, thereby improving operational efficiency and safety at mining sites.
Implementation Method 1
a charge storage device for storing electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
whereupon receipt by the command signal receiving and processing means of a command signal to FIRE causes the electrical energy stored in the charge storage device to discharge into the firing circuit
Implementation Method 3
a detonator comprising a base charge; whereupon receipt by the command signal receiving and processing means of a command signal to FIRE causes the electrical energy stored in the charge storage device to discharge into the firing circuit, the base charge actuating
Data Source
AI summary
Wireless detonators, and corresponding wireless detonator systems present opportunities for blasting arrangements that avoid the need for physical wire connections between the blasting components. The present application discloses a wireless detonator assembly, a corresponding blasting apparatus, and a method of use thereof. The wireless detonator assembly comprises a charge storage device that is capable of storing charge for discharge into a firing circuit upon receipt of an appropriate wireless command signal to FIRE, from an associated blasting machine. In preferred embodiments, the charge storage device remains or becomes charged, at least for a specific time period, if the wireless detonator assembly receives a suitable “keep alive” command signal from an associated blasting machine—otherwise the charge storage device discharges with little or no effect upon the firing circuit, such that the wireless detonator assembly retain or adopts a safe mode.