Abstract: A connector (30) which connects a detonator to a two-wire harness (14) from a control unit (12) and which includes a timer which, after a timing interval, enables the connection of a following detonator in a sequence to the harness (12).

Abstract: An electronic detonator control chip (100) includes a communication interface circuit (101), a rectification bridge circuit (102), a charging circuit (103), a charging control circuit (110), a power management circuit (104), a firing control circuit (105), a logic control circuit (106), a non-volatile memory (107), a reset circuit (111), a safe discharging circuit (108), and a clock circuit (202). Wherein, the communication interface circuit (101) includes a data modulation module (210) and a data demodulation module (211) including two data demodulation circuits (212). The logic control circuit (106) further includes a programmable delay module (281), an input/out interface (282), a serial communication interface (283), a prescaler (284), a CPU (285), and so on.

Abstract: According to certain embodiments, a detonation control system includes a controller circuit coupled to a manual switch and a detonation device. The detonation device is configured to activate an explosive. The controller circuit includes a memory operable to store one of a multiple time-to-fire settings representing a time delay from arming the detonation device to activation of the detonation device. The controller circuit is operable to store a first time-to-fire setting in the memory, store another of the multiple time-to-fire settings in the memory upon actuation of the manual switch, and repeat the step of storing another of the multiple time-to-fire settings in the memory for each actuation of the manual switch.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: In networked electronic ordnance systems as disclosed herein, a plurality of pyrotechnic devices communicate with a controller along a common bus. In accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, at least some of the pyrotechnic devices in the ordnance system are configured such that the address for those devices can be defined during or subsequent to installation of the pyrotechnic devices in an end system. In some instances, a logic device in the pyrotechnic device includes a diagnostics block that initiates a suite of diagnostic tests within the pyrotechnic device in response to a diagnostics command received by the pyrotechnic device. Additionally, in some instances, an additional safety mechanism is added to an energy-reserve capacitor in the pyrotechnic device in compliance with a safe-by-wire standard.

Abstract: A precision alignment system for the alignment of modular frames of an electronic sign including a plurality of precision alignment mechanisms which are mounted to the outer panels of the modular frames and an alignment fixture having a plurality of configurable jig towers. The configurable jig towers include moveable components which are used to precisionally align the outer contact surfaces of contact blocks in the precision alignment mechanisms for subsequent intimate contact between other like outer contact surfaces of contact blocks in the precision alignment mechanisms of horizontally and vertically adjacent modular frames.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: In the method for assigning a delay time to an electronic delay detonator. The detonator includes a data register (24) into which a desired delay time value, supplied by a controller, is written. Subsequently, over a predetermined time period (t) the contents of the data register (24) is repetitively added to a counter register (26) in which the contents is accumulated. After a division of the counter register contents through the calibration time, the contents of the counter register (26) is subsequently counted down using the same oscillator (18) which has controlled the accumulation process. The invention allows the delay time value supplied by the controller to be exactly adhered with, using an oscillator (18) of low accuracy and without feedback from the detonator (12) to the controller.

Abstract: Wireless detonator assemblies (51-59) in use, form a cross-communicating network of wireless “detonator assemblies, such that communication of each wireless detonator assembly (57-59) with an associated blasting machine (50) can occur either directly, or via relay of signals (61-69) between other wireless detonator assemblies (51-56) in the network. Wireless detonator assemblies (51-59) can disseminate information (such as status information, identity information, firing codes, delay times and environmental conditions) among all of the wireless detonator assemblies in the network, while compensating for signal transmission relay delays at nodes in the network, thereby enabling the wireless detonator assemblies to detonate the explosive charges in accordance with the delay times. Various wireless detonator assemblies and corresponding blasting apparatus are disclosed and claimed. Methods of blasting using the wireless detonator assemblies and blasting apparatus are also disclosed and claimed.

Abstract: A MEMS fuze having a moveable slider with a microdetonator at an end for positioning adjacent an initiator. A setback activated lock and a spin activated lock prevent movement of the slider until respective axial and centrifugal acceleration levels have been achieved. Once these acceleration levels are achieved, the slider is moved by a V-beam shaped actuator arrangement to position the microdetonator relative to a secondary lead to start an explosive train in a munitions round.

Abstract: An electronic blasting system (1) comprising a control unit (3), a surface harness and electronic detonators (4) connected to the surface harness by a 2-wire lead, the detonators (4) being adapted to provide information to the control unit (3) in response to command signals transmitted by the control unit (3) along the surface harness; wherein the surface harness comprises a primary line (2) with trunk lines (5) connect to it, wherein each trunk line (5) has connected to it individual detonators (4) making up the same row, wherein each trunk line (5) is connected to the primary line (2) by an actuator (6), and wherein each trunk line (5) includes an actuator (7) between adjacent detonators (4).

Abstract: A slave device for use in a system such as an electronic blasting system wherein a command is issued by a master device to all slave devices connected to the system, causing all slave devices that have not been identified to the master device to respond with identifying information and optionally other information.

Abstract: A system such as an electronic blasting system, and a slave device for use in the system, in which a command is issued by a master device to all slave devices connected to the system, causing all slave devices that have not been identified to the master device to respond with identifying information and optionally other information pertaining to the slave device.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A downhole tool includes a device to be activated by electrical energy and a micro-switch that includes conductors and an element between the first and second conductors selected from the group consisting of: a dielectric element capable of being modulated to provide a conductive path in response to receipt of electrical energy; and an element moveable in response to application of an electrical energy. The micro-switch may be formed of microelectromechanical system (MEMS) technology or microelectronics technology.

Abstract: Firing-readiness diagnostics in an electronic pyrotechnic device such as an electronic detonator or an electronic blasting system thereof. The diagnostics may include a check for any incompatible attached devices, a resistance or continuity check of an ignition element, and/or a capacitance check of a firing capacitor.

Abstract: A system, for example an electronic blasting system, in which a command is issued by a master device to all slave devices connected to the system, causing all slave devices that have not been identified to the master device to respond with identifying information and optionally other information pertaining to the slave device.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A simple and less expensive high voltage pulse generating circuit including a low voltage direct current voltage source having one output terminal connected to another output terminal via a series circuit of a first switch with a low withstand voltage, an inductance storing inductive energy and a second switch with a high withstand voltage, and a branch circuit including a free-wheel diode connected between the other output terminal of the direct current voltage source and a common connection point between the first switch and the inductance. After storing inductive energy in the inductance by turning “on” the first and second switches, these first and second switches are turn “off” to commutate the energy stored in the inductance into a capacitive load connected across the second switch to charge the load abruptly and generate a high voltage pulse having a very narrow width without using a complicated and expensive magnetic compression circuit.

Abstract: A triggering unit for initiating pyrotechnical elements includes a control component, a rectifier (12), an energy store (15), a voltage regulator (13), a data coupling device (11), a current limiter and a suppressor circuit (10). To enable an up to now unknown variety of variants pertaining to characteristics and functionality without having to change the hard ware or the design of the chip, the control component is a programmable microprocessor (10) with an integrated program memory.

Abstract: Disclosed is an electronic detonator delay assembly, having an associated detonator, that can be pre-programmed on site with a time delay and installed in a borehole to carryout a blast operation. The assembly is first coupled to a programming unit to program the desired time delay, and then to a blasting unit, by means of a magnetic coupling device in the electronic delay assembly and to a single pass of a conductive wire through the magnetic coupling device. The programmed time delay in the electronic delay assembly can be double checked through a wireless communication link between the electronic delay assembly and the programming unit.

Abstract: A power circuit breaker has a housing, a fuse element placed in the housing, and a temperature sensitive fuse attached to the fuse element. The fuse element has tab terminals extending from both ends, which are received by trunk terminals connected to an external circuit. The temperature sensitive fuse has a blowout temperature lower than that of the fuse element. The power circuit breaker also has transistors connected to the temperature sensitive fuse. An igniter is placed below the fuse element in the housing, and one of the transistors is connected to the igniter. The temperature sensitive fuse blows out when an excessive current flows through the fuse element, and one of the transistors connected to the igniter is turned on upon the blowout of the temperature sensitive fuse. A gas is jet from the igniter upon turning on the transistor, whereby the tab terminals of the fuse element are disconnected from the trunk terminals.

Abstract: A circuit arrangement of an ignition output stage in particular for an ignition circuit of a motor vehicle, having a switching arrangement which triggers a primary winding of an ignition coil, and a trigger circuit for the switching arrangement. The trigger circuit allows a two-stage closing of the ignition coil.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electrical distribution system for energizing a plurality of electric circuits in accordance with a predetermined delay pattern. The system as described comprises a control unit, a plurality of circuit delay arrangements each associated with an electrical circuit individual thereto and each circuit delay arrangement is identifiable by a circuit code individual thereto and includes a pulse counting arrangement. The control unit is arranged to transmit the circuit codes to the circuit delay arrangements and the pulse count individual to each circuit code, and each circuit delay arrangement identified by its circuit code is arranged to store the pulse count individual to that code. On receipt of a start signal from the control unit, transmitted simultaneously to all the circuit delay arrangements, each circuit delay arrangement starts its respective pulse counting arrangement and energizes its respective electrical circuit when the pulse count is completed.

Abstract: A digital remote pyrotactic firing unit for the controlled selection and ignition of a pyrotactic device. An operator manually selects a specific output channel, which generates a Binary Code Decimal signal. The binary code decimal signal is received by a remote ignition circuit unit that is connected to the pyrotactic device and generates an ignition signal from being energized by an enabling firing circuit.

Abstract: The multi-channel ignition coil driver module of the present invention includes a control integrated circuit and multiple high current load driver integrated circuits housed within a common package. The control integrated circuit is formed of a semiconductor material manufactured in accordance with a standard low-voltage integrated circuit processing technology and is responsive to multiple control signal inputs to provide a corresponding multiple number of low voltage drive signals. Each of the high current load driver integrated circuits are formed of a semiconductor material manufactured in accordance with a high-voltage integrated circuit processing technology and are each responsive to a different one of the low voltage drive signals to energize a different one of a multiple number of high current loads. A current limit function is further provided in each of the multiple channels for limiting the corresponding load current to a predetermined level.

Abstract: An electronic delay detonator in which only energy is received only from a blasting unit to determine a delay time, has an oscillating circuit (20) which outputs oscillation pulses in a first transitory oscillation state in which the oscillation pulses are output immediately after the oscillating circuit (20) starts to operate based on storage energy stored in an energy storing circuit (9), and in a second steady oscillation state. The steady oscillation state of the oscillating circuit is switched, based on an enable signal generated after a predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A sequential blasting system for use in particular in mining comprises a plurality of detonator stages S1, S2, . . . , each of which contains a series circuit consisting of a thyristor T and a detonator means ZE, said series circuit being interposed between two supply leads A, O; B, 0. The signal voltage for the thyristor T in each stage is derived solely from the switching state of the thyristor T of the preceding stage. This causes activation to be transferred from stage to stage independently of the detonator means ZE, in particular irrespectively of whether or not a detonator has been attached and whether or not this detonator becomes highly resistive or not as it should upon being activated. This eliminates the errors that have occurred in known circuits. Upon firing the blasting system, such errors can cause the detonation to occur not only at the first detonator stage, but simultaneously at a location where a detonator is missing as well.

Abstract: An externally tunable clock circuit (10) and a method for adjusting the calibration of a clock circuit with an externally defined time period. A voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) (40) provides clock signals of variable frequency, and a counter (42) receives timing and control signals to provide a digital count indicative of clock signals during a predetermined period. The input voltage to the VCO (40) is adjusted based on differences between the oscillator clock count and a predetermined value. Calibration of the clock circuit (10) is done by counting clock signals from the VCO (40) during an externally defined time period, then comparing the clock signal count with a predetermined value that represents a desired frequency. The VCO frequency is then adjusted according to the difference between the clock signal count and the predetermined value.

Abstract: The invention relates to a blasting apparatus for activating a plurality of electrical detonators after predetermined time delays. The blasting apparatus includes a plurality of remote electrical delay devices. Each device is linked to a detonator, and is arranged to be serially programmed with a timing signal, which originates from the central control unit and which determines the time delay. A bidirectional signal harness, having ends which terminate at I/O ports in the control unit, serially links the delay devices to the control unit. In the event of a fault of discontinuity occurring in the harness prior to programming of the delay devices, the discontinuity is detected and the direction of programming along the bidirectional harness is reversed so that those delay devices which, due to the break, cannot be programmed in the initial direction, are programmed with timing signals travelling along the signal line in the opposite direction.

Abstract: A circuit apparatus for operating firewirks ignition is used by connecting with a fireworks ignition circuit with a group of ignition ball terminals lined up as multi-step and multi-file coordinates of which the positive terminals are respectively connected with the common positive line of each file through a diode, and the negative terminals with the common negative line of each step.

Abstract: This invention relates to sequential blasting utilizing electronic circuitry to steer detonating pulses to successive detonators. Modules are provided which contain a two-terminal element that has the characteristic that in its first normal state it has a high resistance in at least one direction and it may be changed into a second state in which it has a low resistance in both directions by a suitable pulse. Further, a detonating signal does not flow from one power line to the other through the particular module that is being addressed, but from one side of one module through a connecting link and then through the other module. Thus, each module has an input steering terminal and an output steering terminal, with the output steering terminal of each module connected to the input steering terminal of the next module.

Abstract: A method and system for selecting and arming each of a plurality of firing modules in a single-line selective perforating system is disclosed. A single firing line connects each firing module one at a time in a sequence to a control unit to receive power and control signals therefrom. Each module generates internally a module active time interval in response to being connected to the firing line power. Each time interval has a first portion during which the module generates an identification pulse to the control unit to uniquely identify that a particular module has been connected to the firing line, and a second portion during which the module is enabled to receive a selection pulse from the control unit to terminate further sequencing of the modules to locate the module to be selected. The next module to receive power from the control unit is connected to the firing line by a pass-through switch in the last connected module at the end of its active time interval if that module was not selected.

Abstract: Separate electrical timing and load activation devices are provided for each of plural electrical loads and each device is connected to receive reference timing signals from a central unit. Each of the separate timing and load activation devices measures a reference time interval accurately defined by the reference timing signals and subsequently activates its associated electrical load after a respectively corresponding predetermined time delay which is determined as a function of the locally measured reference time interval.

Abstract: A circuit for use in the sequential initiation of explosives comprises an up-down counter having a first input terminal at which an up-count is initiated, a second input terminal at which a downcount is initiated, and an output terminal, an energy storage capacitor for powering the counter, a first resistor which has a low impedance for a fixed time to current of a particular value and of a first polarity and which thereafter has a high impedance connected to one of the input terminals of the counter so that when current of the first polarity and of the particular value is passed through the first resistor a signal is applied after the fixed time to the input terminal to initiate a count in an up direction, and a second resistor which has a low impedance to a predetermined voltage of a given polarity connected to the other input terminal of the counter so that when the predetermined voltage of the given polarity is applied to the second resistor a count is initiated in a down direction, the counter generating

Abstract: The triggering head comprises a case containing a battery connected by means of an electronic switching device to the terminals of an output intended for connection of the device to be triggered and a control circuit fed by the battery and comprising several double-pole inputs mounted in series and a starting switch with external actuation. The control circuit functions to make the electronic switching device conductive when, the starting switch having been actuated, the potential difference appearing across the end poles of the inputs exceeds a predetermined value.

Abstract: An electro-optic detector utilizes a trigger circuit to sense the presense of a fluid medium and produce a control signal at a predetermined time after the fluid medium is detected.