Abstract: Wireless blasting systems present significant technical challenges. Discloses herein are blasting apparatuses, and methods for their use, that employ a network of blasting machines and detonators, each detonator capable of wireless communication not only with the blasting machines, but also with other detonators, so that those detonators (and associated components) that are “blind” to communication with the blasting machines can remain functional in the blasting network. Importantly, the wireless signal receiving, processing and transmitting means associated with each detonator is powered by a supply insufficient to cause inadvertent detonator initiation unless a specific FIRE signal is transmitted by a blasting machine, and received by the detonator.

Abstract: An electronic blasting system comprising: a plurality of electronic detonators; and a blasting machine, a function of which is to transmit information to and/or receive information about one or more of the plurality of electronic detonators, wherein the blasting machine is adapted to perform this function under voice control.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are significant improvements in security and safety of blasting apparatuses intended for use in mining operations. These include the development of an apparatus and method for blasting that involves activation or deactivation of the blasting apparatus in accordance with pre-determined parameters. For example, these parameters may include one or more of: a location of the blast site, a time for the blasting event, a number of previous blasts, a number of previous blasts within a given time period, and identification of detonator identification codes. The activation or deactivation may involve cross-communication between components of the blasting apparatus and/or associated detonators. Such cross-communication may involve electronic or wireless communication means, including for example the use of cell phone technology, or the internet.

Abstract: A blasting system includes a wireless link between a blast controller and a plurality of electronic detonators. Each detonator includes a respective electronic initiator and an explosive charge. Charge storage devices of the initiators are chargeable by a carrier of a first signal having a first frequency (f1) in the order of 400 MHz-500 MHz and which is broadcasted by the blast controller. Each initiator further includes logic circuitry driven by a clock signal which is derived from the first signal and having a clock frequency of about 4 kHz, which is substantially less than the first frequency.