Plural Sequentially Fired Ignitors Or Detonators Patents (Class 102/217)
  • Patent number: 11293734
    Abstract: The invention relates to downhole firing tools. In particular, a firing switch for a perforating gun with an EB switch port. The firing switch comprises a body portion configured to be located within the EB switch port, and an electronic addressable switch mechanically coupled to the body portion. The mechanical coupling of the body portion and electronic addressable switch may provide a substantially rigid firing switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Assignee: GUARDIAN GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED
    Inventors: Iain Maxted, Derek Paul Curnock
  • Patent number: 11280166
    Abstract: A method for controlling a target switch assembly in a chain of switch assemblies includes distributing the chain of switch assemblies in a wellbore; placing a controller at a head of the wellbore; making a first decision, at the controller, to actuate a corresponding detonator of the target switch assembly; transmitting, from the controller to the target switch assembly, a fire command to activate the corresponding detonator; and making a second decision, locally, at the target switch assembly, to activate the detonator, after the fire command from the controller is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.
    Inventors: Phillip Phelps, Brad Perry, Rick Wallace
  • Patent number: 11231260
    Abstract: An electronic securing device for an electronic load with an energy supply is provided, which can supply the securing device and the load with energy when an input signal is applied for a corresponding time, wherein the electronic securing device has a time delay, which ensures that only signals of a predetermined minimum duration are detected as a signal. The electronic securing device also has a programmable logic, which comprises the time control, and by way of which an operating switch can also be switched on. The programmable logic switches the energy supply to the load for a certain time and switch off again after the time has elapsed. The switching of the energy to the load takes place via a power switch. The switching off of the logic takes place via a first logic switch, which in turn can switch the operating switch and thereby deactivate the logic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventor: Juergen Schmitz
  • Patent number: 10914146
    Abstract: A method for firing a detonator in a chain of switch assemblies includes a step of lowering the chain of switch assemblies into a wellbore; a step of powering-up a switch assembly of the chain of switch assemblies; a step of independently entering through a set of states during which the switch assembly interacts with a downstream switch assembly and determines a status of one or more elements associated with the switch assembly; and a step of firing a detonator electrically connected to the switch assembly or entering a sleeping state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2021
    Assignee: GEODYNAMICS, INC.
    Inventors: Roger Archibald, Jason Ansley, Brad Perry
  • Patent number: 10900335
    Abstract: A completion system for perforating a tubular string positioned in a wellbore includes a tool string positionable in the wellbore, wherein the tool string includes a first perforating gun and a plurality of digital switches, a control system connectable to the tool string, wherein the control system is configured to generate a plurality of unique identifiers for each switch of the plurality of switches, assign each of the plurality of unique identifiers to one of the plurality of switches, and transmit a signal to a first switch of the plurality of switches including a first unique identifier of the plurality of unique identifiers to actuate the first perforating gun and perforate the tubular string, wherein the first unique identifier is assigned to the first switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: G&H Diversified Manufacturing LP
    Inventors: Benjamin Vascal Knight, Scott Edwards, James Edward Moskal, Christopher P. Hansen, Jeff M. Sobotka, Rachel Danielle Lewis, Alan S. Rudnai, Jarvis Ward Hill
  • Patent number: 10830566
    Abstract: The invention relates to downhole firing tools. In particular, a firing switch for a perforating gun with an EB switch port. The firing switch comprises a body portion configured to be located within the EB switch port, and an electronic addressable switch mechanically coupled to the body portion. The mechanical coupling of the body portion and electronic addressable switch may provide a substantially rigid firing switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: Guardian Global Technologies Limited
    Inventors: Iain Maxted, Paul Curnock
  • Patent number: 10563967
    Abstract: A connector block for use with an electronic or electric detonator which includes a housing and, mounted in or to the housing, a power source, a radio receiver, a radio transmitter, a processor/logic unit and terminals for connection to at least one signal transmitting conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignee: DETNET SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD
    Inventor: Elmar Muller
  • Patent number: 10490054
    Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for an inline integrity checker are disclosed. The systems, methods and devices may include detection of impedance to a perforating gun disposed in a wellbore using a controller; a built-in impedance device; a shooting safety panel housing at least partially surrounding the built-in impedance device for restricting access to the built-in impedance device; one or more input devices for altering an impedance or resistance threshold level; and one or more alarms for indicating a condition exceeding the impedance or resistance threshold level as determined by the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald Leon Crawford, Kristopher Lee Wilden, Tony Tran, Charles Eugene Hamm, Jose Maria Delgado, William George Dillon, Jose German Vicente
  • Patent number: 10436005
    Abstract: Detonation control modules and detonation control circuits are provided herein. A trigger input signal can cause a detonation control module to trigger a detonator. A detonation control module can include a timing circuit, a light-producing diode such as a laser diode, an optically triggered diode, and a high-voltage capacitor. The trigger input signal can activate the timing circuit. The timing circuit can control activation of the light-producing diode. Activation of the light-producing diode illuminates and activates the optically triggered diode. The optically triggered diode can be coupled between the high-voltage capacitor and the detonator. Activation of the optically triggered diode causes a power pulse to be released from the high-voltage capacitor that triggers the detonator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: Triad National Security, LLC
    Inventors: Jonathan L. Mace, Gerald J. Seitz, Lawrence E. Bronisz
  • Patent number: 10418991
    Abstract: A gating grid driver for use with radiation detectors, such as time projection chambers and other similar devices that require a gating grid that operates in a bipolar mode with different electrostatic potentials on alternating wires. To open such gating grids, the driver shorts the alternate wires to a common voltage Va. Later, this driver closes the grid by restoring the voltage differences in the adjacent wires. By connecting the driver circuit to the gating grid via low impedance transmission lines, the driver circuit opens the gating grid in 0.35 ?s, minimizing the lost drift length associated with this opening time. The circuit consists of 2 pairs of N- and P-MOSFET switches and includes two adjustable capacitors and resistors that can be used to adjust the opening time, and shift the balance of positive and negative charge for individual radiation detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: Board of Trustees of Michigan State University
    Inventors: Suwat Tangwancharoen, ManYee Betty Tsang, William G. Lynch
  • Patent number: 10416191
    Abstract: A method for the validation of a fuse head in an electronic detonator is disclosed, the method including measuring at least once a first charge time; activating a switching means to a second position to replace a reference resistor in an RC circuit with the fuse head; measuring at least once a second charge time; and determining the deviation of the second charge time from the first charge time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: MaxamCorp Holding, S.L.
    Inventors: Luis Diego Montaño Rueda, Hendrik Van Niekerk, José Manuel Botija González, Íñigo Zabalo Arena
  • Patent number: 10359264
    Abstract: Disclosed examples include firing control electronic circuits, such as electronic ignition modules (EIMs), electronic detonators and firing circuits for blasting applications, in which a Zener diode or one or more general purpose diodes is connected between a firing capacitor and charging voltage source in a circuit with a detonator ignition element to block voltage below a certain desired level so that the firing capacitor is not charged to enhance safety in the logger mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2019
    Assignee: Austin Star Detonator Company
    Inventors: Gimtong Teowee, James D. Heckelman
  • Patent number: 9759538
    Abstract: A blasting system with automated detonator logging eliminates on-the-field manual logging of each detonator. Detonators are connected in sequence in an auto-logging circuit, and the blast machine initiates a logging operation in which each detonator receives and confirms an assigned sequence number along with assigned delay data. Elimination of manual logging by individuals increases safety in the blast zone and facilitates the blasting operation. The operation is simplified, likelihood of human error is reduced, and the cost of a separate logger device is eliminated. An auto-logging protocol may be incorporated into the control module of the electronic detonator. Alternately, an auto-logging module may be connected externally to each detonator similar to the conventional surface plus down-the-hole delay systems. The inventive system may include an IDC connector that facilitates the serial connection of the detonators for the logging circuit while allowing parallel connections of the blast control circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignee: UTEC Corporation, LLC
    Inventor: Nanda Kumar J. Nair
  • Patent number: 9273939
    Abstract: An ignition system for a munitions system which is scalable with respect to its power delivery and which includes two different ignition circuits for a sub-detonative and a detonative initiation of an explosive charge of the munitions system, wherein a control mechanism in a sub-detonative ignition circuit monitors function and thus prevents an uncontrolled complete power delivery of the munitions charge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: TDW Gesellschaft fuer verteidigungstechnische Wirksysteme mbH
    Inventor: Hans-Dieter Ackermann
  • Patent number: 9250051
    Abstract: Technologies for sequentially initiating squibs in one or more release mechanisms in order to reduce delay between successive squibs are provided. A squib initiation sequencer is configured to initiate squibs of one or more release mechanisms in a pre-programmed sequence. The squib initiation sequencer is further configured to detect when the initiation of each squib in the sequence is complete, and immediately move to the next sequential step without waiting the entire maximum initiation time per the squib manufacturer's specifications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Gregory Harris Smith, Son T. Vo, Randall Wayne Watkins, William L. Moon
  • Patent number: 8991315
    Abstract: A detonator assembly (10) which includes a housing (16), an explosive (20) in the housing (16), an initiating element (32) exposed to the explosive (20), a circuit for controlling operation of the initiating element (32), and a communication arrangement which can establish communication between the circuit and an external controller (60) at least at one optical frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Detnet South Africa (Pty) Ltd
    Inventors: Andre Koekemoer, Craig Charles Schlenter, Albertus A. Labuschagne, Christopher Malcolm Birkin, Herman Van Der Walt
  • Patent number: 8973502
    Abstract: A priming assembly and a method are provided for coupling a plurality of detonators to at least one explosive through a plurality of transmission lines. The priming assembly may include a housing that receives the plurality of detonators and the plurality of transmission lines. In use, the plurality of transmission lines may communicate with the plurality of detonators within the housing to transmit explosive charges from the plurality of detonators to the at least one explosive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Eric Scheid, Brad Moan, Thomas Gailey
  • Publication number: 20150059608
    Abstract: There is provided an electrical pulse splitter (EPS) for an explosives system (10), the explosives system comprising an electrical pulse generator (EPG), the electrical pulse splitter (EPS), and first and second explosive charges (Ch1, Ch2) having respective first and second electrical initiators (D1, D2), The electrical pulse splitter (EPS) is configured to receive a primary electrical pulse from the electrical pulse generator (EPG), and to output first and second electrical pulses to the first and second electrical initiators (Ch1, Ch2) respectively. The second electrical pulse is output a length of time after the first electrical pulse is output, and the electrical pulse splitter is powered by the primary electrical pulse.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: The Secretary of State for Defense
    Inventors: Stephen James McLean, Gary John Searle
  • Patent number: 8955441
    Abstract: A detonator system (10) which has a plurality of segments (16), each segment having a respective plurality of detonators (14), and a synchronizer (18, 12), which may be a compound arrangement or a single device, which prevents the transmission of voltage modulated signals to the detonators (14) in one segment (16A) if current modulated segments are being transmitted from the detonators (14) in another segment (16B).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Detnet South Africa (Pty) Limited
    Inventor: Craig Charles Schlenter
  • Patent number: 8939082
    Abstract: For use in a blasting system (10), a visible, throw-away, safety lockout device (30) which operates automatically, to interrupt power to the blasting system (10), upon the occurrence of one or more defined fault conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Detnet South Africa (Pty) Ltd
    Inventor: Abraham Johannes Liebenberg
  • Patent number: 8931415
    Abstract: Initiator systems for warheads include a first initiation device configured to detonate at least a portion of an explosive material contained in an explosive device and a second initiation device configured to deflagrate at least a portion of an explosive material of a warhead. Scalable output explosive devices include an explosive material at least partially disposed within a housing and an initiator system including a first initiation device configured to detonate at least a portion of the explosive material and a second initiation device configured to deflagrate at least another portion of the explosive material. Methods of igniting warheads include deflagrating a portion of an explosive material disposed within the warhead and detonating at least another portion of the explosive material disposed within the warhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.
    Inventor: Eric Volkmann
  • Publication number: 20150007740
    Abstract: A system for triggering includes a plurality of electronic detonator assemblies (11), where each electronic detonator assembly (11) is connected to a leading wire (12) linked to a local fire control unit (12). At least one of the local fire control units (13S) includes an electronic synchronization module (14) connected to a leading wire linked to a master local fire control unit (13M), which is one of the local fire control units (13). The system is suitable for use in triggering a plurality of electronic detonator assemblies (11) according to a single blasting pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Applicant: DAVEY BICKFORD
    Inventors: Franck Guyon, Samir Bouamar
  • Publication number: 20140311370
    Abstract: A method of communicating with a detonator device using radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to read data from the device, and to transmit information and commands to the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventors: Andre Koekemoer, Craig Charles Schlenter, Daniel August Julien Louis Maurissens
  • Publication number: 20140158010
    Abstract: A remote firing system for remotely detonating explosive charges includes features that provide safety and efficiency improvements. These features include safety communication among multiple remote devices and multiple controller devices, a polling functionality permitting rapid deployment of system devices, electronic key systems, programmable remote devices for easy replacement of failing remote devices, and an event history log for the remote devices for efficient diagnostic evaluation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: Rothenbuhler Engineering Co.
    Inventors: Thomas Lee Jacobson, Neal H. Rothenbuhler, Richard B. Taft
  • Publication number: 20140158008
    Abstract: A remote firing system for remotely detonating explosive charges includes features that provide safety and efficiency improvements. These features include safety communication among multiple remote devices and multiple controller devices, a polling functionality permitting rapid deployment of system devices, electronic key systems, programmable remote devices for easy replacement of failing remote devices, and an event history log for the remote devices for efficient diagnostic evaluation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: Rothenbuhler Engineering Co.
    Inventor: Rothenbuhler Engineering Co.
  • Publication number: 20140158009
    Abstract: A remote firing system for remotely detonating explosive charges includes features that provide safety and efficiency improvements. These features include safety communication among multiple remote devices and multiple controller devices, a polling functionality permitting rapid deployment of system devices, electronic key systems, programmable remote devices for easy replacement of failing remote devices, and an event history log for the remote devices for efficient diagnostic evaluation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: ROTHENBUHLER ENGINEERING CO.
    Inventors: Thomas Lee Jacobson, Neal H. Rothenbuhler, Richard B. Taft
  • Patent number: 8746144
    Abstract: A detonator includes a high voltage switch, an initiator and an initiating pellet. The detonator also includes a low voltage to high voltage firing set coupled to the switch and initiator such that the detonator includes a high voltage power source and initiator in an integrated package. The detonator may also include inductive powering and communications, a microprocessor, tracking and/or locating technologies, such as RFID, GPS, etc., and either a single or combination explosive output pellet. The combination explosive pellet has a first explosive having a first shock energy and a high brisance secondary explosive in the output pellet having a second shock energy greater than the shock energy of the first explosive. Systems are also provided for facilitating fast and easy deployment of one or more detonators in the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Richard W. Givens, Ronald L. Loeser, Roger F. Backhus
  • Patent number: 8646387
    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).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Detnet South Africa (Pty) Ltd
    Inventor: Craig Charles Schlenter
  • Patent number: 8474379
    Abstract: A remote firing system for remotely detonating explosive charges includes features that provide safety and efficiency improvements. These features include safety communication among multiple remote devices and multiple controller devices, a polling functionality permitting rapid deployment of system devices, electronic key systems, programmable remote devices for easy replacement of failing remote devices, and an event history log for the remote devices for efficient diagnostic evaluation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Rothenbuhler Engineering Co.
    Inventors: Thomas Lee Jacobson, Neal H Rothenbuhler, Richard B Taft
  • Patent number: 8468944
    Abstract: A detonator includes a high voltage switch, an initiator and an initiating pellet. The detonator also includes a low voltage to high voltage firing set coupled to the switch and initiator such that the detonator includes a high voltage power source and initiator in an integrated package. The detonator may also include inductive powering and communications, a microprocessor, tracking and/or locating technologies, such as RFID, GPS, etc., and either a single or combination explosive output pellet. The combination explosive pellet has a first explosive having a first shock energy and a high brisance secondary explosive in the output pellet having a second shock energy greater than the shock energy of the first explosive. Systems are also provided for facilitating fast and easy deployment of one or more detonators in the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Richard W. Givens, Ronald L. Loeser, Roger F. Backhus
  • Patent number: 8453571
    Abstract: A multiple warhead fuzing apparatus including first warhead and a second warhead. Operation/detonation of the first and second warheads is controlled using safe and arming logic and an onboard weapon computer that communicates triggering and fire signal parameters to fire signal logic located on the weapon. For a hard target application, the initiation module(s) of each warhead will initiate when commanded by the warhead's fuze after specific criteria has been satisfied, as determined by the fuze programming from the weapon computer. Soft target applications will require the warheads to initiate simultaneously after a delay from impact. The large area target settings will initiate all warheads upon receipt of a fire command from the weapon computer or height of burst sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Brian Dwayne Dutton, John Kevin Kandell, Gabriel Henry Soto
  • Patent number: 8448573
    Abstract: A multiple warhead fuzing apparatus including a first warhead and a second warhead. Operation/detonation of the first and second warheads is controlled using safe and arming logic and an onboard weapon computer that communicates triggering and fire signal parameters to fire signal logic located on the weapon. For a hard target application, the initiation module(s) of each warhead will initiate when commanded by the warhead's fuze after specific criteria has been satisfied, as determined by the fuze programming from the weapon computer. Soft target applications will require the warheads to initiate simultaneously after a delay from impact. The large area target settings will initiate all warheads upon receipt of a fire command from the weapon computer or height of burst sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Brian Dwayne Dutton, John Kevin Kandell, Gabriel Henry Soto
  • Patent number: 8434409
    Abstract: A projectile for use in a barrel with stacked projectiles, particularly for a weapon which can be reloaded by a user in the field. The projectile comprises a tail assembly. The tail assembly comprises a casing and a closure in the tail assembly, the casing and closure forming a chamber containing a propellant charge, an exit from the casing for release of propellant gases into the barrel when the propellant is ignited to launch the projectile from the barrel, the closure closing the exit, wherein the closure is opened by ignition of the propellant within the chamber, a primer in a leading end of the casing, an inductor around the casing, and a signal detector at a leading end of the casing and inductor, wherein the signal detector triggers the primer and the signal detector receives a signal output from the inductor to trigger the primer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Metal Storm Limited
    Inventor: Sean Patrick O'Dwyer
  • Publication number: 20130104764
    Abstract: A switch connectable to an upper explosive device and a lower explosive device in a perforation gun train is provided. The switch comprises a circuit, a portion of the circuit being openable upon detonation of the lower explosive device, and the switch being changeable from a first position to a second position upon the opening of the portion of the circuit. In the first position, current can flow to the lower explosive device but not to the upper explosive device. In the second position, opposing current can flow to the upper explosive device but not to the lower explosive device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: EXPLOSIVES LIMITED
    Inventor: EXPLOSIVES LIMITED
  • Patent number: 8402892
    Abstract: A priming assembly and a method are provided for coupling a plurality of detonators to at least one explosive through a plurality of transmission lines. The priming assembly may include a housing that receives the plurality of detonators and the plurality of transmission lines. In use, the plurality of transmission lines may communicate with the plurality of detonators within the housing to transmit explosive charges from the plurality of detonators to the at least one explosive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Eric Scheid, Brad Moan, Thomas Gailey
  • Patent number: 8390979
    Abstract: A blasting control system includes a detonator module, and a blasting machine interface configured for serial communication between a blasting machine and the detonator module. The detonator module includes a detonator, a unique electronic ID, a switch configured to enable/disable the detonator in response to verification of the unique electronic ID, a communication device configured for communication with the blasting machine interface, and a processor responsive to instructions from the communication device. The blasting machine interface includes an I/O device, a communication device, and a processor responsive to the I/O device and the communication device. Upon verification of the unique electronic ID via communication from a user via the blasting machine interface, a state of the switch associated with the detonator is placed in an unlocked mode so as to enable activation of the associated detonator upon a fire signal from the blasting machine via the blasting machine interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Dyno Nobel Inc.
    Inventors: Eldon K. Hurley, Cornelis L. Kome, Robert W. Levan
  • Patent number: 8387532
    Abstract: A barrel assembly for a weapon, said barrel assembly including a barrel; a plurality of projectile assemblies axially disposed in end to end abutting relationship within said barrel for operative sealing engagement with the bore of the barrel, each projectile including a projectile head and an integral cylindrical spacer portion extending axially and rearwardly from said projectile head; discrete propellant charges accommodated within said cylindrical spacer portion for propelling respective projectile assemblies sequentially through the muzzle of the barrel; ignition means for igniting said discrete propellant charges; and control means for selectively and sequentially actuating the ignition means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Metal Storm Limited
    Inventor: James Michael O'Dwyer
  • Patent number: 8371224
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for selectively varying the yield of an explosive device is provided. The apparatus generally comprises a main charge that may selectively be consumed and/or detonated to achieve the selected yield ranging from about 0% to about 100%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Christopher Boswell, Gerardo Pangilinan, Von Whitley
  • Patent number: 8230788
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: James E. Brooks, Nolan C. Lerche, Anthony Frank Veneruso
  • Publication number: 20120167792
    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).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: DETNET SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD
    Inventor: Craig Charles Schlenter
  • Patent number: 8176848
    Abstract: A system and method for conducting a firing sequence including a master device and a plurality of electronic pyrotechnic devices, wherein the master device broadcasts, multiple times, a fire command to the plurality of electronic pyrotechnic devices, the electronic pyrotechnic devices commence a pre-fire countdown in response to each fire command received without error, and each electronic pyrotechnic device conducts a pre-fire countdown to expiration and thereupon commences a final fire countdown that concludes with firing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Austin Star Detonator Company
    Inventors: Gimtong Teowee, Alex A. Kouznetsov
  • Patent number: 8156868
    Abstract: A projectile for use in a barrel with stacked projectiles, particularly for a weapon which can be reloaded by a user in the field. The projectile includes a chamber containing a propellant charge, with an exit from the chamber for release of propulsion gases into the barrel. A seal blocks the exit and is opened by ignition of the propellant within the chamber but is resistant to gases produced by ignition of propellant in other projectiles in the barrel. The exit and seal are provided in a range of different forms. The exit may be an aperture in a wall of the chamber with the seal as a moveable barrier, such as a valve-like structure, for example. The seal may also include a rupturable or deformable barrier across the aperture. Alternatively the seal is a thin barrier around the charge such as a wax coating and the exit involves a disintegrable character of the barrier. The seal may also be an inherent property of the geometry of the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Metal Storm Limited
    Inventor: Sean Patrick O'Dwyer
  • Publication number: 20120042800
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods for selective control of groups of wireless initiation devices such as wireless electronic boosters at a blast site. Such methods may be applied to a wide variety of blasting techniques that would benefit from the use of wireless control and initiation of explosive charges at the blast site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Applicant: Orica Explosives Technology Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Michael John McCann, Ronald F. Stewart
  • Patent number: 8109212
    Abstract: A projectile (10) is for use with barrel assemblies of the type having a plurality of projectiles axially disposed within a barrel having a bore and a muzzle and which projectiles are associated with discrete propellant charges for propelling said projectiles sequentially through the muzzle of the barrel. Projectile (10) comprises expandable sleeve (11) encircling at least part of core (12). Sleeve (11) and core (12) have wedging surfaces (14) operable to deform trailing part (21) of sleeve (11) into sealing engagement with the bore in response to pressure exerted on the projectile (10). When projectiles (10) are axially disposed in the bore, rear face (24) of the leading projectile cooperates with leading face (20) of the trailing projectile to define a discrete space about spine (23) for receipt of the propellant charge. Sleeve (11) is retained about the core (12) during travel to the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Metal Storm Limited
    Inventor: James Michael O'Dwyer
  • Publication number: 20120006217
    Abstract: A system for multiple subsurface operations which are carried out in a well bore by means of two or more well tools having explosive or gas generating charges which are electronically initiated for accomplishing any number of other downhole well activities. Two or more well service tools are simultaneously run into a well on a single wire-line and are located at predetermined positions. An electronic blast control system having safety parameters, including time, movement, pressure and the like to ensure safe running and independent firing of the tools. The blast control system permits controlled energization of the explosive charges only when all of the programmed parameters have been met and causes sequential or serial electronic firing of the explosive devices independently of one another by positive and negative voltages.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: Otis R. Anderson
  • Patent number: 8091477
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: James E. Brooks, Nolan C. Lerche, Anthony F. Veneruso
  • Publication number: 20110271823
    Abstract: A circuit includes a line input for receiving a line power. The circuit further includes a line output for transmitting the line power. The circuit further includes a next-gun-detect output and a next-gun-detect input. The circuit further includes a first detonator connection and a second detonator connection, the second detonator connection being connected to a ground. The line input is coupled to the first detonator connection through a one-polarity-pass component that only allows power of a first polarity to pass. The line input is coupled to the first detonator connection through a detonate-enable switch circuit that is coupled to the next-gun-detect output and the line input. The detonate-enable switch passes power only if (a) the next-gun-detect output is not coupled to the next-gun-detect input and (b) power of a second polarity has previously been applied to the line input while the next-gun-detect output is not coupled to the next-gun-detect input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Jose German Vicente
  • Publication number: 20110252996
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention provide a dart that contains an HE payload, two time-delay fuses, one providing a relatively longer delay and the other providing a relatively shorter delay and two triggering mechanisms for triggering the fuses. The first triggering mechanism, which triggers on contact with a mine lid, triggers the relatively shorter time-delay fuse. The second mechanism, which triggers on overburdening exposure to water, sand, or soil, triggers the relatively longer time-delay fuse.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2008
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: LOCKHEED MARTIN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Antonio Paulic, Lance Hamilton Benedict
  • Patent number: 7984675
    Abstract: A projectile for use in a barrel with stacked projectiles, particularly for a weapon which can be reloaded by a user in the field. The projectile includes a chamber containing a propellant charge, with an exit from the chamber for release of propulsion gases into the barrel. A seal blocks the exit and is opened by ignition of the propellant within the chamber but is resistant to gases produced by ignition of propellant in other projectiles in the barrel. The exit and seal are provided in a range of different forms. The exit may be an aperture in a wall of the chamber with the seal as a moveable barrier, such as a valve-like structure, for example. The seal may also include a rupturable or deformable barrier across the aperture. Alternatively the seal is a thin barrier around the charge such as a wax coating and the exit involves a disintegrable character of the barrier. The seal may also be an inherent property of the geometry of the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Metal Storm Limited
    Inventor: Sean P. O'Dwyer
  • Patent number: 7975613
    Abstract: The invention provides a blasting system which includes a plurality of electronic detonators which are configured in a blast array which has at least one row and a plurality of detonators in the row, each detonator including a memory in which is stored at least a respective identity code which is dependent, at least, on the row on which the detonator is, and on the detonator's position in the row, a harness which interconnects the detonators, and at least one control unit, connected to the harness, which generates a signal to fire the detonators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Detnet South Africa (Pty) Limited
    Inventors: Albertus Abraham Labuschagne, Andre Louis Koekemoer, Craig Charles Schlenter