Electronic Switch Discharges Capacitor Patents (Class 102/218)
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Patent number: 8794151Abstract: An explosive device using a semiconductor explosion initiator device provides an MOS capacitor formed on a semiconductor substrate and including a silicide layer formed over a doped silicon layer formed over an oxide layer. The oxide layer is formed on an N-well formed in a semiconductor substrate. A voltage source applies a voltage which may be a pulsed voltage, across the MOS capacitor sufficient to cause the avalanche breakdown of the oxide layer and the diffusion of metal from the silicide layer into the doped silicon of the N-well formed in the substrate. The chemical reaction between the metal and the doped silicon causes the generation of a plasma which ignites a pyrotechnic material or ignites or detonates other explosive material in contact with the semiconductor explosion initiator device.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2010Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Assignee: Wafertech, LLCInventors: Re-Long Chiu, Sharon Ying
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Patent number: 8365664Abstract: An impulse cartridge having multiple charges that are independently activatable. The impulse cartridge is further voltage polarity independent through the use of diodes. The polarity independence provides increased reliability.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2010Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Daniel R. Neff
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Patent number: 8261663Abstract: An electrical delay detonator for use in blasting initiation systems energized by a non-electric impulse signal transmitted through a non-electrical conduit, such as a shock tube, with one end inserted inside a detonator housing having redundant sensors for detecting the presence of a non-electric impulse signal and a computerized control circuit for actuating the firing circuit. An elevated voltage is generated, stored in a capacitor assembly, and discharged when fired to an electrically operable igniter. The igniter, when activated, detonates an explosive mass. A battery is also contained within the detonator housing for powering the control circuit and one sensor, in low consumption mode, for several days. Upon detecting the presence of a signal the rest of the circuits are powered up. Periodic time windows generated by the control assembly provide corresponding enabled time periods for the sensors to become operational.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2010Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Inventors: Pio Francisco Perez Cordova, Juan Carlos Trejo Maguina
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Patent number: 8256351Abstract: A non-lethal projectile used to immobilize, impair, disorient, or distract a live target. The non-lethal projectile can also be used as a signaling device. In one embodiment, a non-lethal payload carrying projectile that is detonated at a set distance determined and, set by the operator. The distance is electronically controlled and can be set in the field seconds before the projectile is fired.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2009Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Safariland, LLCInventors: Michael Kramer, Corey Rutz
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Patent number: 8230788Abstract: A detonator assembly is provided for use in oilfield operations to detonate an explosive downhole including a capacitor discharge unit and initiator electrically connected together to form a single unit. Further, provided is a method of fabricating an integrated detonator. Additionally, a method of use for an integrated detonating unit is provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2011Date of Patent: July 31, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: James E. Brooks, Nolan C. Lerche, Anthony Frank Veneruso
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Patent number: 8151707Abstract: A pyrotechnic ignitor. The ignitor includes a break charge and a voltage storage component in communication with the break charge, wherein the voltage stored in the voltage storage component is for firing the break charge when the voltage is communicated to the break charge. The ignitor further includes a processor in communication with the voltage storage component, wherein the processor is configured to delay transmission of the voltage stored in the voltage storage component for a predetermined time.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2008Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Pyrotechnics Management, Inc.Inventor: Nathan P. Lasut
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Patent number: 8091477Abstract: A detonator assembly includes a capacitor, an initiator, a transformer and an addressable chip. The initiator is electrically connected to the capacitor, the transformer is mechanically and electrically connected to the capacitor and the addressable chip is mechanically and electrically connected to the transformer. The initiator may be bonded or fused to the capacitor, and the transformer may be bonded or fused to the capacitor. The capacitor, initiator, transformer and addressable chip form a unified integrated detonating unit.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2004Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: James E. Brooks, Nolan C. Lerche, Anthony F. Veneruso
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Patent number: 7748324Abstract: A method to ensure payload activation of ordnance independently of a preset period of time including the steps of providing a power source to a clock, a detonator and a trigger circuit; the clock providing an initial count and a terminal count; the initial count providing a trigger signal to the trigger; the trigger circuit providing a terminal count signal to a self-destruct system if a malfunction results in no clock operation.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2007Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Inventor: Scott A. Sutcliffe
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Publication number: 20100072736Abstract: An ignition element mounting capacitor having an ignition element mounted on a capacitor, includes therein a first capacitor section and a second capacitor section, and first external terminal electrodes electrically connected to the first capacitor section and second external terminal electrodes electrically connected to the second capacitor section. The first capacitor section has a capacity for igniting ignition powder, and the second capacitor section has a function for removing noise which affects external circuits. Further, provided on the surface of the capacitor are third external terminal electrodes electrically connected to the ignition element.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2007Publication date: March 25, 2010Applicants: NIPPONKAYAKU KABUSHIKIKAISHA, MURATA MANUFACTURING CO., LTD., RYODEN TRADING COMPANY, LIMITEDInventors: Shigeru Maeda, Atsushi Ishida, Katsuki Nakanishi, Yoshihiro Koshido, Hajime Yamada, Naoko Aizawa, Yasuaki Matsumura, Toshiaki Furuya
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Patent number: 7644661Abstract: The networked electronic ordnance system connects a number of pyrotechnic devices to a bus controller using lighter and less voluminous cabling, in a more efficient network architecture, than previously possible. Each pyrotechnic device contains an initiator, which includes a pyrotechnic assembly and an electronics assembly. One or more pyrotechnic devices each contain a logic device having a unique identifier. The pyrotechnic devices are individually controlled by the bus controller by addressing the unique identifier of each logic device. Each pyrotechnic device preferably includes an energy reserve capacitor which stores firing energy upon arming. Both digital and analog fire control conditions are provided before an armed pyrotechnic device can be fired. A plurality of initiators and/or other components of the system may be packaged together on a single substrate and networked together via that substrate.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2000Date of Patent: January 12, 2010Assignee: PS/EMC West, LLCInventors: Steven D. Nelson, Michael N. Diamond, John J. Walsh
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Publication number: 20090314175Abstract: A networked electronic ordnance system and method for controlling a variety of pyrotechnic devices at different energy levels include a bus controller controlling at least one pyrotechnic device operating at a first energy level and a smart connector adapting at least one pyrotechnic device operating at a second energy level to control by the bus controller. The smart connector may also include a plurality of capacitors for firing the pyrotechnic device(s). In an embodiment, at least one pyrotechnic device operating at a first energy level and at least one pyrotechnic device operating at a second level include a logic device have a unique identifier. The smart connector may also include an energy reserve capacitor and an emitter follower circuit electrically connected to a logic device. Additionally, the smart connector may be connected to an initiator for firing at least one pyrotechnic device at the second energy level.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2004Publication date: December 24, 2009Inventors: Steven D. Nelson, Michael N. Diamond
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Patent number: 7549373Abstract: A detonator assembly according to one arrangement includes a capacitor discharge unit having a capacitor and a resistor formed on a surface of the capacitor. At least one side of the resistor is electrically connected to one electrode of the capacitor. In another arrangement, another type of energy source besides the capacitor is used.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2002Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: James E Brooks, Nolan C. Lerche, Frank A. Duva
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Patent number: 7510625Abstract: A method is provided for subjecting a material which is partially in a solid state and partially in a liquid state to explosive forces. The method includes containing the material in a vessel having a length in a first direction and a width in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the length being greater than the width; subjecting the material to the explosive forces in the vessel, the explosive forces being caused by introducing energy to the material by discharging a capacitor through a capacitor discharge electrode located within the material; and removing the material from the vessel after being subjected to the explosive forces.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2004Date of Patent: March 31, 2009Assignee: Dynawave CorporationInventors: Vernon Eric Staton, Vann E. Staton, Lorenza Glenn Austin
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Publication number: 20080282922Abstract: Disclosed is a detonation initiator that can form part of a demolition assembly. The detonation initiator can include a linear actuator assembly having a core with a permanent magnet disposed with respect to a coil, and a firing pin coupled to the core and disposed along a longitudinal axis of the linear actuator assembly. A capacitor can be used to store electrical energy derived from an electrical pulse received by the detonation initiator. An electrical circuit can be used to monitor the charge on the capacitor and to discharge the capacitor through the coil of the linear actuator assembly to propel the core along the longitudinal axis of the linear actuator assembly when the charge on the capacitor reaches a charge threshold.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2004Publication date: November 20, 2008Inventor: David G. Land
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Patent number: 7451700Abstract: Disclosed is a detonation initiator that can form part of a demolition assembly. The detonation initiator can include a linear actuator assembly having a core with a permanent magnet disposed with respect to a coil, and a firing pin coupled to the core and disposed along a longitudinal axis of the linear actuator assembly. A capacitor can be used to store electrical energy derived from an electrical pulse received by the detonation initiator. An electrical circuit can be used to monitor the charge on the capacitor and to discharge the capacitor through the coil of the linear actuator assembly to propel the core along the longitudinal axis of the linear actuator assembly when the charge on the capacitor reaches a charge threshold.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2004Date of Patent: November 18, 2008Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventor: David G. Land
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Patent number: 7337723Abstract: A detonator which, once armed, is automatically disarmed after a predetermined time period in the absence of at least one defined signal during such time period.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2004Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Assignee: Detnet South Africa (Pty) Ltd.Inventors: Andre Louis Koekemoer, Albertus Abraham Labuschagne
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Patent number: 7334523Abstract: A fuze may include a detonator, a firing capacitor and a control circuit. The firing capacitor may be charged to a nominal operational voltage, wherein when the firing capacitor is discharged across the detonator, an external explosive charge may be detonated. The firing capacitor may also be charged to a sterilization voltage, wherein when the firing capacitor is discharged across the detonator, the detonator may be destroyed without causing detonation of an external explosive charge. When the detonator is destroyed, the sterilized fuze is unable to trigger detonation of an external explosive charge.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2004Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.Inventors: James D. Lucas, Dennis L. Kurschner
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Patent number: 7213518Abstract: A modular fuze assembly is provided for use in multiple types of military ordnance. The fuze comprises a base unit having an initiator for arming the fuze; a timer assembly that includes a programmable clock package; a trigger assembly comprising a line monitoring circuit and a photo-capacitor; and a top cover unit. Each of the individual components are interconnected together to form a single, unitized system. Multiple initiation stages are provided to ensure payload activation.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2003Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: Engel Ballistic Research, Inc.Inventor: Scott A. Sutcliffe
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Patent number: 7191706Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system having a plurality of capacitor discharge units (CDUs) that includes electrical bridge type detonators operatively coupled to respective explosives. A pulse charging circuit is adapted to provide a voltage for each respective capacitor in each CDU. Such capacitors are discharged through the electrical bridge type detonators upon receiving an optical signal to detonate respective operatively coupled explosives at substantially the same time.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2003Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Jay B. Chase, Philip A. Pincosy, Donna M. Chato, Hugh Kirbie, Glen F. James
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Patent number: 7168737Abstract: An integrated circuit for an air bag system is used in an air bag system having an ECU and a module case connected to the ECU and accommodating a gas generator and an air bag. In the air bag system, two bus lines passing through the ECU are provided to supply currents and the like, and individual gas generators accommodated in the module cases are connected operationally by conductors branched from the bus lines. Each of the igniters incorporated in the gas generator is an electric igniter which is provided with a heat generating portion and a priming coming in contact with the heat generating portion, and the igniter and the bus line are connected to each other through the conductors, and the integrated circuit provided in the igniter is recorded with information to exhibit required functions, and a current for igniting the priming is supplied to the igniters through a capacitor.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2003Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Mitsuyasu Okamoto, Shingo Oda
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Patent number: 7146912Abstract: An electronic detonator system includes a control unit, a plurality of electronic detonators and a bus which connects the detonators to the control unit. Each electronic detonator includes a number of flags which may assume either of two possible values, each flag indicating a substrate of the respective detonators. The flags are readable from the control unit by means of digital data packets and the control unit is adapted, by means of these flags, to check the state of the electronic detonator and control the operation of the electronic detonator. When reading the flags, the electronic detonators give responses in the form of analog response pulses on the bus. The detonator system also includes a portable message receiver which on the basis of the flags obtains messages regarding the connecting status of a detonator.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2005Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: Dyno Nobel Sweden ABInventors: Anne-Marie Bokvist, legal representative, Jan Westberg, Elof Jönsson, Sune Hallin, deceased
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Patent number: 7069860Abstract: A method of activating at least one electrical igniter incorporated in each of a plurality of gas generators provided in an air bag system is provided. The method includes: connecting an electronic control unit to a power source and an impact detecting sensor; providing a bus line having a plurality of loop wires passing through the electronic control unit to supply and transmit current and required information; connecting each of the at least one electrical igniter to the electronic control unit through the bus line branched from predetermined portions of the bus line; providing each of the at least one electrical igniter with a heat generating portion, a priming ignited by the heat generating portion, a capacitor, and an integrated circuit recorded with information to exhibit required functions; and supplying a current for igniting the priming to the at least one igniter through the capacitor.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2004Date of Patent: July 4, 2006Assignee: Daicel Chemical Industries, LTDInventors: Mitsuyasu Okamoto, Shingo Oda
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Patent number: 7055435Abstract: An improved spacecraft ordnance system includes a plurality of squibs each connected with a resistor having a squib unique resistance value and a driver unit including built-in test circuitry. Ordnance harness cables connect the squibs with the driver unit. The resistors enable squib identification. The built-in test circuitry enables unambiguous verification of correct connection of each squib with the driver unit. The built-in test circuitry includes a low-impedance multiplexer for selecting a driver line for monitoring, a precision current source for providing a relatively low current to a selected output of the driver unit producing a voltage proportional to the total resistance from signal to ground, and a analog/digital converter for digitizing the voltage and reporting the result to a computer for comparison to predicted values using a telemetry interface and therefore identifying the selected squib. An EMI-tight adapter housing the squib-specific resistor may be attached to the squib.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2003Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: David W. Lloyd
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Patent number: 7021218Abstract: A safety and performance enhancement arrangement for primary explosive detonators. This arrangement involves a circuit containing an energy storage capacitor and preset self-trigger to protect the primary explosive detonator from electrostatic discharge (ESD). The circuit does not discharge into the detonator until a sufficient level of charge is acquired on the capacitor. The circuit parameters are designed so that normal ESD environments cannot charge the protection circuit to a level to achieve discharge. When functioned, the performance of the detonator is also improved because of the close coupling of the stored energy.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2002Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventor: Ronald W. Davis
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Patent number: 6837163Abstract: An electronic detonator system includes a control unit, a plurality of electronic detonators and a bus which connects the detonators to the control unit. Each electronic detonator includes a number of flags which may assume either of two possible values, each flag indicating a substate of the respective detonators. The flags are readable from the control unit by means of digital data packets and the control unit is adapted, by means of these flags, to check the state of the electronic detonator and control the operation of the electronic detonator. When reading the flags, the electronic detonators give responses in the form of analog response pulses on the bus. The detonator system also includes a portable message receiver which on the basis of the flags obtains messages regarding the connecting status of a detonator.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2000Date of Patent: January 4, 2005Assignee: Dnyo Nobel Sweden ABInventors: Anne-Marie Bokvist, Jan Westberg, Elof Jönsson, Sune Hallin
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Patent number: 6820557Abstract: The present invention provides an igniter for an air bag system in which the whole weight can be reduced. The present invention provides an igniter for an air bag system which is used in an air bag system comprising an ECU connected to a power source and an impact detecting sensor, and a module case accommodating a gas generator and an air bag and that is incorporated in the gas generator, wherein the system is constituted such that a bus line comprising plural loop wires passing through the ECU to supply currents and the like, and individual gas generators which are connected operationally by plural conductors branched from the bus line, the igniter is an electric igniter provided with a heat generating portion and a priming contacting the heat generating portion, the igniter and the bus line are connected to each other by the conductor, a capacitor and an IC are provided, and a current for igniting the priming is supplied through the capacitor.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2003Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Mitsuyasu Okamoto, Shingo Oda
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Patent number: 6789483Abstract: An electronic blasting system in which the electronic detonator, when attached to a blasting machine or logger, automatically senses and determines whether it is attached to a blasting machine or a logger, preferably by utilizing a different operating voltage for the blasting machine versus that of the logger, with the detonator being capable of distinguishing the respective operating voltages.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2003Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: Special Devices, Inc.Inventors: David T. Jennings, III, Alex A. Kouznetsov
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Patent number: 6759798Abstract: A structure of a capsule for a rapidly expanding metallic mixture includes one or more trigger electrode support rods arranged between the main trigger electrodes such that the trigger electrode support rods are linearly aligned with the main trigger electrodes, with an additional trigger electrode provided at each end of the trigger electrode support rods. Also, an electrolyte is added to the metallic mixture and the trigger electrodes are arranged at intervals of 1-100 mm and thus readily inducing arc discharge between the trigger electrodes. The capsule structure thus easily and effectively triggers an oxidation reaction of the metallic mixture even in the case of a long capsule.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2002Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Inventor: Chang Sun Kim
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Publication number: 20040099171Abstract: A safety and performance enhancement arrangement for primary explosive detonators. This arrangement involves a circuit containing an energy storage capacitor and present self-trigger to protect the primary explosive detonator from electrostatic discharge (ESD). The circuit does not discharge into the detonator until a sufficient level of charge is acquired on the capacitor. The circuit parameters are designed so that normal EDS environments cannot charge the protection circuit to a level to achieve discharge. When functioned, the performance of the detonator is also improved because of the close coupling of the stored energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2002Publication date: May 27, 2004Applicant: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventor: Ronald W. Davis
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Patent number: 6718881Abstract: An ordnance control and initiation system is provided. The system includes a plurality of ordnance devices which may be segregated into a plurality of sets. Each set of the ordnance devices has at least one ordnance device and further includes an ordnance device interface, which preferably includes an optical-to-electrical converter. A controller issues state commands to a master ignition control module operatively coupled to the controller, which retransmits the state commands to a plurality of slave ignition control modules. Each of the slave ignition control modules associated with one of the sets of the ordnance devices and preferably is optically coupled to each of the ordnance devices within that set. The slave ignition control modules re-transmit the state commands optically to the ordnance devices of the associated the ordnance device set of that slave ignition control module.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2001Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.Inventor: Robert A. Rauscher, Jr.
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Patent number: 6675715Abstract: A device supplies electric energy for projectile detonators without a battery or additional energy generation during flight of the projectile. For operating the projectile detonator in the flight phase, a supply capacitor charged during an inductive programming phase is disposed. The capacitor has a very low leakage current in order to bridge a time in the range of minutes between the programming and the start of the flight phase without significant energy loss. The charging of the supply capacitor takes place through halfwaves, of a programming AC voltage not utilized in the programming and not under load.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2002Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: Honeywell AGInventor: Bertram Kölbli
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Patent number: 6647886Abstract: A safety system for a motor vehicle includes a plurality of safety devices each adapted to be activated in the event that an accident should occur. Each safety device includes at least one element selected from the group comprising an electric activator for activating the safety device and a sensor to sense a parameter related to the safety device. The system includes a first conductive arrangement comprising at least one first conductor and a first group of a plurality of switches, with each switch of the first group being connected to one of the first conductors. The system includes a second conductive arrangement comprising at least one second conductor, and a second group of a plurality of switches, with each switch of the second group being connected to one of the second conductors. The elements are connected in a circuit so that each element is connected between one switch of the first group of switches and one switch of the second group of switches.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2002Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: Autoliv Development ABInventors: Roger Darraba, Denis Bourcart, Bernard Demersseman
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Patent number: 6637339Abstract: Effects of capacitive resistances on the transmission of data between electronic igniters of an ignition system and a device for programming and triggering igniters are avoided by the disclosed method. Prior to a planned communication of an igniter with the device, a dc voltage is applied to the ignition circuit for a predetermined length of time. This voltage is higher than the voltage provided for generating the signals with which the data are generated. Subsequently, the signals that the igniter transmits in response are produced with a lower voltage than the previously elevated voltage and the dc voltage is increased once again prior to the response to an additional igniter.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2002Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Dynamit Nobel GmbH Explosivstoff und SystemtechnikInventors: Jan Petzold, Heinz Schäfer, Ulrich Steiner, Andreas Zemla
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Patent number: 6634298Abstract: A fireset for a low energy exploding foil initiator (LEEFI) comprises a first capacitor for storing a level of electrical energy sufficient to fire the LEEFI, the first capacitor being in electrical communication with the LEEFI, second and third capacitors in electrical communication with the first capacitor for storing lesser levels of energy than is stored by the first capacitor, a diode in electrical communication with the capacitors for limiting charging of the second and third capacitors, and first and second resistors providing isolation among the capacitors. A trigger directs a pulse of electrical energy to a high speed switching transistor adapted to receive the pulse from the trigger and, in response there to, to dump the third capacitor. The third capacitor dumps through a silicone controlled rectifier to short the second capacitor to ground, to decrease the level of energy stored by the second capacitor.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1998Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Jim R. Denney
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Patent number: 6609463Abstract: A firing device is described and has an electronic unit which is connected upstream of a firing cap and generates a constant firing voltage. A bypass line is provided for bypassing the electronic unit. A test switching device can be actuated by a test signal and, when a test signal is present, connects a line, which conducts a supply voltage, to the bypass line. In this way, a Brouston test can be carried out.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2002Date of Patent: August 26, 2003Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Kevin Hovet, Peter Popp, Christian Zelger
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Patent number: 6584907Abstract: An ordnance system of the present invention may include or feature any one or more of: a control unit, one or more effectors (detonators, initiators, shaped charges and the like), and a two-, three- or four-wire communication bus between the control unit and the effectors; an addressable system in which all the effectors can be connected to the same communication bus and the control unit can issue coded signals on the bus addressed to a specific effector; inductive coupling between the effectors and the communication bus; and a multi-voltage level communication system in which communication signals are carried at a first voltage and arming signals are provided at a second, higher voltage. Other features may include two-way communication between effectors and the control unit and the de-centralization of firing control so that the control unit does not have exclusive control over whether the effectors function.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2001Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense CompanyInventors: Craig J. Boucher, Paul N. Marshall, David B. Novotney
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Patent number: 6564717Abstract: The disclosure describes a circuit arrangement for driving an occupant protection system gas generator whose ignition process can be influenced by a magnetic field; this is based on a switching control principle, with the load coil generating the magnetic field being itself used as a component part of the switching control. For a fast reduction of the magnetic field and thus for accelerating the ignition process, a resistor may by connected into the free-wheeling branch, which is bridged in normal operation. Alternatively, it is possible to effect a return feed of the energy stored in the coil into the self-sufficiency capacitor.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2001Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Assignee: Conti Temic microelectronic GmbHInventors: Thomas Haerle, Johann Florian, Gerhard Roth, Guido Wetzel
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Publication number: 20020177933Abstract: A device and a method are proposed for controlling firing circuits for an element of restraint, individual transistors of the output stages being controlled by bit combinations, and impermissible bit combinations lead to an error message to a processor. In addition, a firing current is measured, in order to estimate a firing energy from it, so that efficient energy management can be carried out. Furthermore, determination of the firing current makes it possible to update a crash protocol as to whether the firing circuit was activated or not. When a voltage of the energy reserve is exceeded, it is further proposed to switch over to pulse operation for operating the output stages. Thereby a greater resistance to short-circuits and a higher efficiency are achieved.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2001Publication date: November 28, 2002Inventors: Jens Otterbach, Hartmut Schumacher, Peter Taufer, Achim Henne, Harald Tschentscher, Michael Ulmer, Andreas Rupp
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Patent number: 6470803Abstract: Detonator apparatus, such as a blasting machine detonator, is provided with a miniature transformer having multi-turn primary and secondary coils. The transformer feeds a bridge wire detonator element, and has sufficient impedance to permit impedance matching with a carrier that may be as long as 7500 m. The impedance of the detonator is such that the detonator resists firing when subject to stray currents or commonly present power or communications signals. A blasting machine is provided that is specifically designed to provide a signal having a frequency in the range in which the detonator is sensitive. The blasting machine relies upon semi-conductor switching and timing circuits to control the discharge from a pair of capacitors, rather than upon an output transformer.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2000Date of Patent: October 29, 2002Assignee: Prime Perforating Systems LimitedInventors: Liqing Liu, Michael Norman Lussier
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Patent number: 6389975Abstract: Disclosed, in a preferred embodiment, is a switching circuit incorporating a Field Effect Transistor (FET), two series dual-tap gas tube surge arrestors, and high-voltage resistors as part of a high voltage switch of a fireset for initiating an exploding foil initiator (EFI). Until energizing the FET via a firing command, an operating voltage of 1000 V is held off by a combination of the surge arrestors and high-voltage resistors. Upon receipt of a firing signal, a 28 V source is used to energize the FET that, in turn, decreases the voltage across the one surge arrestor connected directly to ground and increases the voltage across the other surge arrestor. Upon reaching the breakdown voltage of the ionizable gas within the second surge arrestor, the gas ionizes, becomes electrically conductive, and dumps the second surge arrestor's voltage across the first surge arrestor. This causes the first surge arrestor to also break down. Both surge arrestors are now conducting.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2000Date of Patent: May 21, 2002Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Michael D. Haddon, Gabriel H. Soto
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Patent number: 6332399Abstract: An igniting element, such as is used in a vehicle air bag igniter reduces the power dissipated by the air bag ignition circuit, as well as its space requirement and its costs, by using the ignition switch/switches as the ignition element (7) itself of the ignition circuit. The ignition circuit is integrated in a silicon chip, and has at least one ignition switch constructed as a transistor.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1999Date of Patent: December 25, 2001Assignees: DaimlerChrysler AG, TRW Airbag Systems GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Horst Laucht, Gerhard Mueller, Wolfgang Welser
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Patent number: 6279479Abstract: To fire a firing cap of a vehicle occupant protection system of a motor vehicle, at least two firing capacitors are provided which initially remain connected in parallel at the start of a firing process and are connected in series after expiry of a time interval from the start of the firing process. It is ensured that a firing current which flows across the firing cap is always of a sufficient magnitude and at the same time initial power losses are avoided.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Stefan Hermann
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Patent number: 6268775Abstract: An electronic delay circuit (10) useful for the delayed initiation of detonators illustrates several novel features that may be combined, including a novel oscillator (34), a programmable timer circuit (32) and a run control circuit (46). The oscillator (34) generates a clock signal determined by the rate of discharge of a capacitor (34a) relative to a reference voltage REF. A second capacitor (34b) is charged to a voltage that exceeds REF, and when the first capacitor (34a) falls below REF, an internal signal is generated and the capacitors are switched, so that the first capacitor gets charged while the second is discharged. A latch (34f) produces clock pulses in response to the internal signals. The programmable timer circuit (32) includes a ripple counter (38) and a program bank (40) that loads a count in the counter upon initialization.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1999Date of Patent: July 31, 2001Assignee: The Ensign-Bickford CompanyInventor: Robert S. Patti
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Patent number: 6260483Abstract: In a radio remote blasting system, a radio receiver triggers a blocking oscillator which generates a high voltage output. A rectifier rectifies the high voltage output and charges a capacitor, which is coupled to a plasma arc generator to apply the capacitor voltage to the plasma arc generator and generate a high voltage arc in the arc generator. The end of a shock tube is received in a port in the arc generator and the arc produced in the arc generator will ignite explosive material in the shock tube. The resulting explosion will travel from the point of ignition to an explosive device which will then be detonated.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 1999Date of Patent: July 17, 2001Inventor: Richard N. Snyder
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Patent number: 6220165Abstract: A circuit for controlling an electro-explosive device. The circuit includes a heating element, an input circuit and a load control circuit. The load control circuit is responsive to an electrical input provided by the input circuit for energizing the heating element. The heating element selectively causes ignition of the electro-explosive device when its level of energization reaches a firing level. The load control circuit substantially limits current in the heating element when the electrical input is less than a predetermined threshold for maintaining energization of the heating element at a level less than the firing level to prevent the ignition of the electro-explosive device. In contrast, the load control circuit applies substantially all of the electrical input to the heating element when the electrical input signal is greater than the predetermined threshold.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1998Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Inventor: Mark K. Sullivan
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Patent number: 6173651Abstract: A control method for detonators (1) fitted with an electronic ignition module (15). Each module (15) is associated with specific parameters including at least one identification parameter and one explosion delay time, and includes a firing capacitor and a rudimentary internal clock. The modules (15) are capable of establishing a dialogue with a firing control unit (17) fitted with a reference time basis. The identification parameters are stored in the modules using a programming unit (18); the specific parameters are stored in the firing control unit (17); for each successive module, its internal clock is calibrated using the firing control unit and the associated delay time is sent to the module; the modules are ordered to load the firing capacitors; and a firing order is sent to the modules using the firing control unit, triggering off eventual resetting of the internal clocks as well as a firing sequence.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 1999Date of Patent: January 16, 2001Assignee: Davey BickfordInventors: Claude Pathe, Raphael Trousselle, Philippe Clot, Eric Fivaz
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Patent number: 6138571Abstract: A fireset for a low energy exploding foil initiator (LEEFI) comprises a ft capacitor for storing a level of electrical energy sufficient to fire the LEEFI, the first capacitor being in electrical communication with the LEEFI, second, third, and fourth capacitors in electrical communication with the first capacitor for storing lesser levels of energy than the first capacitor. A trigger directs a pulse of electrical energy into the fireset. An integrated circuit to which the pulse of electrical energy is directed, is adapted to invert the pulse and to dump the third and fourth capacitors. A first metal oxide semi-conductor fill effect transistor (MOSFET) switch is turned on by the integrated circuit and the dumping of the third and fourth capacitors, the first MOSFET switch being operable to dump the second capacitor. A second MOSFET through, which the second capacitor is dumped, operates to discharge the first capacitor through the second MOSFET, to fire the LEEFI.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1998Date of Patent: October 31, 2000Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Jim R. Denney
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Patent number: 5929368Abstract: An electronic delay circuit (10) for use in a detonator (100) has a switching circuit (20) and a timer circuit (22). Switching circuit (20) controls the flow of a stored charge of electrical energy from a storage capacitor (12) to a bridge initiation element such as a semiconductor bridge (18) or a tungsten bridge. The timing of the release of this energy is controlled by timer circuit (22). Switching circuit (20) is an integrated, dielectrically isolated, bipolar CMOS (DI BiCMOS) circuit, whereas timer circuit (22) is a conventional CMOS circuit. The use of a DI BiCMOS switching circuit allows for greater efficiency of energy transfer from the storage capacitor (12) to the semiconductor bridge (18) than has previously been attained.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 1996Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Assignee: The Ensign-Bickford CompanyInventors: David W. Ewick, Paul N. Marshall, Kenneth A. Rode, Thomas C. Tseka, Brendan M. Walsh
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Patent number: 5912428Abstract: An electronic delay circuit (10) useful for the delayed initiation of detonators illustrates several novel features that may be combined, including a novel oscillator (34), a programmable timer circuit (32) and a run control circuit (46). The oscillator (34) generates a clock signal determined by the rate of discharge of a capacitor (34a) relative to a reference voltage REF. A second capacitor (34b) is charged to a voltage that exceeds REF, and when the first capacitor (34a) falls below REF, an internal signal is generated and the capacitors are switched, so that the first capacitor gets charged while the second is discharged. A latch (34f) produces clock pulses in response to the internal signals. The programmable timer circuit (32) includes a ripple counter (38) and a program bank (40) that loads a count in the counter upon initialization.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 1997Date of Patent: June 15, 1999Assignee: The Ensign-Bickford CompanyInventor: Robert S. Patti
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Patent number: 5886284Abstract: An arming and safing system for a missile having an acceleration responsive mechanism for actuating a timing device upon launching to insure arming only after the passage of a predetermined period of time, and an omnidirectional impact switch for activating a dudding switch in case of missile impact at a distance less than a minimum safe distance from the launching vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 1964Date of Patent: March 23, 1999Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Albert S. Will, Robert R. Wilson