Positional blasting system

[0001] The present invention relates to blasting systems, and more particularly a blasting system that controls multiple detonators to elicit the desired sequence of shots for applications such as mining.

Background of the Invention [0002] Traditional blasting systems rely on multiple detonators for the controlled blasting of a set of related explosives in the desired shot sequence. The detonators and explosives are usually deployed in many boreholes along and / or near the blasting site. The detonators are interconnected by means of electrically conductive cables that connect operatively to the blasting machine. In most systems, a blasting machine coordinates the detonation of explosives by sending a detonator signal. Shot signal usually detonator shot to each initiates at each programmed delay time, explosive delay time are counted backwards from

The technician programs the desired charge in each detonator. Basically, they are detonated when the counters of their respective detonators reach zero.

[0003] In particular, the delay time refers to the amount of time that has actually elapsed.

between the reception of the shot signal and By traditional operating protocol, the shot machine is individually or collectively connected to each detonator and transmits the shot signal after verification of the shot lines. The shot signal initiates the counter of each detonator. In response to the shot signal, the counter counts down

An amount of time equal to the loaded delay time until the appropriate explosives are detonated.

[0004] One or more of these detonators are traditionally located inside each borehole at the location for the arrows. The predetermined pattern of boreholes usually results from drilling in the area of ​​blasting works, depending on the site conditions and the desired performance specifications. These specifications may include, but are not limited to, rock density, gunpowder ratio, fragmentation, excavation, height of the pick layer, as well as consideration of crushing and vibration. Basically, when the detonators are placed in the boreholes by the technicians, there is no pre-programmed delay time in their memory.

[0005] When traditional methods are used to program delay times, one or more field technicians must find the location of the boreholes by following a map or other plan, and then program the detonators contained therein. These technicians usually find and identify boreholes visually and / or by measuring the distance in the field in steps. This practice requires skill, organization and caution because a blasting site may contain hundreds of mostly imperceptible boreholes. Therefore, even an experienced team of technicians can easily be temporarily confused in the field, which often requires them to retreat and / or do the job again. In addition, the difficulties associated with this traditional practice can upset a team of technicians during blasting operations and this can result in dangerous situations.

[0006] This task can be further complicated in situations where technicians need to calculate the delay times while on the ground based on the location of the boreholes. Apart from the decisive importance of such

Calculations and expertise of most technicians, these terrain calculations are prone to error. Other important responsibility of technicians is to record all relevant delay times and ensure that the appropriate shot information is loaded into each detonator.

[0007] One prior art blasting system disclosed in US Patent No. 6,079,333 to Manning uses data obtained from GPS (Global Positioning System) to establish a blasting program. In particular, the main controller uses GPS based time when detonating explosives.

[0008] Similarly, European Patent Application 0897098 discloses a blasting system that uses GPS location data to calculate delay times for detonators. This is done in one position by a central controller. None of these earlier systems clearly solves the practical problems encountered by field technicians that involve finding and accurately programming multiple detonators at blasting sites.

[0009] WO document containing a system also used

01/86323 presents the ignition system for reading / writing data as a recorder. The recorder is connected through the bus line with boreholes. with a detonator.

Each borehole is associated with

The detonators are connected to the bus line. In addition, this system includes a device that transmits the detonator data / position. The transmitting device includes a DGPS system.

The transmitting positioning device is adapted to determine the positioning of the borehole by the transmitting device near the borehole. After determining the location, the identifier is determined

53 / 59P24119EN00 detonator associated with the borehole. When determining the location of the borehole and the detonator ID, the transmitting device transmits / receives data from / to the recorder. The detonator's connection to the bus line is detected by the recorder and is transmitted to the transmitting device.

[0010] The purpose of the present invention is to reduce or eliminate errors and / or inaccuracies currently associated with the programming of many detonators of the invention being delay times in with traditional methods used in blasting operations.

[0011] Another object of the present simplifies and facilitates the programming of many detonators used in blasting operations. [0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to facilitate the recording and tracking of shot data used for many detonators at the blasting site.

[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to make field technicians faster and easier to find many boreholes used in blasting operations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0014] The present invention achieves these and other objectives by means of a blasting system that uses a handheld programming unit to locally program multiple detonators located in multiple boreholes at a blasting site in which the handheld programming unit automatically uses the positioning data of the unit itself to determine shot delay times for detonators. For example, the programming unit may load a shot delay time automatically specified by the unit as a relative function

The proximity of the first detonator to the second detonator, measured by the distance and direction of movement of the technician from the first detonator to the second detonator. This property allows the technician to automatically and dynamically, under operating conditions, program time delays for many detonators located in boreholes at the blasting site, so these procedures can be carried out "on the fly".

[0015] According to one aspect of the invention, the handheld programming unit uses an integrally embedded Global Positioning System ("GPS") to measure the movement of a technician from one detonator to another. Alternatively, the invention considers the use of an acceleration meter that performs this function, or any other positioning device with sufficient accuracy that can be easily and conveniently used in conjunction with a hand-held programming unit.

[0016] Additionally or alternatively, the programming unit may receive a GPS reading in the detonator to determine and load the delay time based on its actual position. In addition to the delay time, the shot information loaded by the programming unit usually includes a unique identifier for each detonator to facilitate the identification and organization of collection, organization and recall of shot data.

[0017] The present invention assists field technicians in the precise location of many detonators deployed at blasting sites. The present invention also eliminates the need to repeat operations and simplifies the programming process for all detonators. The present invention facilitates the automatic determination and loading of desired delay times and other shot information, while helping technicians ensure that all boreholes and detonators have been

53 / 59P24119EN00 taken into account. This allows you to achieve the desired sequence of shots in an effective manner, without compromising accuracy or safety.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a plurality of detonators are disposed in a plurality of boreholes, each detonator being adapted to fire the desired number of explosives. The detonators are also connected via cables to a software-controlled blasting machine that controls the blasting operations by means of blasting signals transmitted through the cables to the detonators. Before blasting robots, a handheld programming unit is used to automatically determine shot information, using position data, to program detonators according to shot information, and to keep shot data for each detonator. Then, the unit sends all shot data to the blasting machine. For example, a handheld unit is used to load a delay time into the first detonator, and the delay time may automatically be based on the positioning of the unit during loading. The GPS receiver or other positioning mechanism is preferably integrated into the programming unit, although it may be separated from it in some situations. The programming unit is electrically connected or communicates with the located detonator in order to load into the detonator the desired delay time associated with this position and any other instructions regarding this detonator.

[0019] After the loading of the delay time to the first detonator is completed, the technician moves to the second borehole. During this movement, due to the operation of the GPS device built into the programming unit, this unit tracks the direction and distance of the technician's movement to the second borehole.

53 / 59P24119PL00

The location-based loading unit can automatically determine the delay time, identification data for the next detonator per technician, and / or the relative movement of the second borehole relative to the first borehole, and even based on a different reference position. For example, the unit may be programmed to increase the loadable delay time by two milliseconds for each foot traveled west. Similarly, five milliseconds can be added to the delay time for each foot traveled north. In this way, the programming unit can automatically determine accurate shot instructions on an ongoing basis, thereby eliminating the need for field technicians to perform complex calculations that are prone to errors.

[0020] At each detonator, the programming unit records the detonator identification number, delay time loaded, and GPS location data. In particular, the entity stores the detonator identification numbers in combination with the delay time loaded, and any other detonator information, including positional data. In this way, the programming unit establishes and maintains an extensive record of all relevant information related to the desired blasting configuration.

[0021]

The instructions loaded into each detonator then sent back to the blasting machine are conveniently an example using an RS-32 cable. Preferably, made by setting the programming unit in the blasting machine rack. The blasting machine recovers loaded memory programming unit instructions from the actual transferred unit programming activities the whole is processed in the blasting machine. The blasting machine thus maintains the full list of detonators on

Based on the loaded memory of the programming device, which may include position data.

[0022] Next, the blasting machine attempts to communicate with each detonator before initiating a shot sequence to verify that each detonator is properly connected, unchanged, operational, and programmed to detonate. The technician reviews the results of this communication to identify any potentially problematic boreholes and / or detonators by reference to identification numbers. This precautionary measure verifies that all the detonators intended for the shots are working and that no additional detonators have been taken into account by mistake. These operational precautions can be further enhanced by additional safety features for the blasting system, such as ordering the simultaneous manipulation of both the explosive key and the detonation blast switch.

[0023] The programming unit is also used when Computer Assisted Design (CAD) or another design program is used to plan aspects of the blasting scenario. Such a design may include coordinate approximations and / or identification numbers for each designed / planned detonator and may be loaded into the unit prior to programming. Where required, a technician may use the properties of a programming unit to determine the position of detonators. For example, the programming unit may display the position of the technician relative to the nearest borehole. The specific delay time associated with this hole can also be selectively displayed by the unit. The delay time can be determined as a function of the actual position of the detonator, for example, from positional data taken when

The positioning device is arranged at the detonator.

[0024] In particular, the stored information includes verified positions of each detonator determined by GPS or other positioning system. As an intermediate stage, the programming unit can load a complete image of the blasting site to a laptop or other computer on which the CAD software is running. This feature can be particularly useful when the user wants to rely on a computer to repeatedly update and verify delay times based on real positional data and identification numbers loaded from the programming unit when detonators are being programmed.

[0025] These and other features of the invention will be readily understood in light of the further detail of this description and drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings [0026]

Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram that shows a blasting system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is a diagram that shows a field technician using a programming unit to communicate with a detonator in a borehole at a blasting site.

Fig. 3 shows an example of an image that may appear on the programming unit display when loading shot information to one of the detonators.

Fig. 4 is a flowchart that shows a sequence of steps suitable for programming multiple detonators.

53 / 59P24119PL00

Fig. 5 is a flowchart that shows a sequence of steps to set the parameters used to fire explosives according to the desired sequence.

Fig. 6, similarly to Fig. 3, shows the programming unit display, but the display differs slightly in detail because it corresponds to the sequence of steps in Fig. 5.

Fig. 7 is a flowchart that shows a sequence of steps for determining shot information based on the actual position of the detonator using the programming unit 12.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments [0027] Fig. 1.shows a blasting system 10 based on a position according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Basically, the system 10 includes a master controller 11, a hand-held programming unit 12, and a plurality of programmable detonators 13, which are located in respective bore holes 14 at the location of 15 blasting works. Each detonator 13 is operatively associated with a number of explosives 16 charges. The detonators 13 are also operatively connected to the blasting machine 11 by means of connectors 18 and associated wiring 20. Preferably, the blasting machine 11 comprises an outer chest 21, a rack 22, line clamps 23, a blast switch 24, a charging switch 26, a keypad or other data input device 28, a disk drive 29, a display 30 and an internal processor (not shown).

[0028] The detonators 13 are traditionally programmable detonators capable of receiving shot information that includes a delay time. The delay time is used in such a way that it is reduced from

53 / 59P24119EN0000 shot signal time to the desired shot time. That is, the delay time refers to the amount of time that elapses between the receipt of the shot signal in the detonator 13 and its actual detonation.

shot machine [0029] In Fig. 1 the hand-held programming unit 12 is shown how it rests in rack 22 of blasting machine 11, and rack 22 includes electrical connections (not shown) that electrically connect unit 12 to machine 11 when placed in rack 22 The programming unit 12 thus configured can transfer data to and from the machine 11. Fig. 2 shows the programming unit 12 in more detail.

As shown in Fig. 1, one or more detonators 13 are usually located in each borehole 14 of the area 15 designated for blasting operations. Each detonator 13 includes a counter (not shown) that counts an amount equal to the delay time in response to the shot signal. The detonators typically operate independently as soon as the blast 11 or controller initiates the sequence. This independent operation is beneficial when considering resistance and reliability.

[0031] Depending on the application specifications, each borehole 14 may additionally contain formwork, such as sheet and / or explosives known in the art. Fig. 1 shows an exemplary blasting area 15, in this case the ledge or ceiling 33 of the excavation located near the boreholes 14.

knowledgeable of blasting works, deadline

For people, the "dial layer" refers to the area of ​​15 blasting operations. The drill hole pattern site conditions and can be drilled according to desired performance specifications, such as rock density, gunpowder ratio, fragmentation, excavation, height of the digging layer, as well as taking into account crushing and vibration, as is known in the art. According to embodiments of the present invention,

53 bore holes 14 can be automatically drilled with a positioning drill or made manually by a technician. [0032] The detonators 13 of the system 10 shown in Fig. 1 receive a shot signal from the blasting machine 11 through the switches 18 and associated wiring 20. The blasting machine 11 is individually or collectively connected to one or more detonators 13. Although Fig. 1 shows a blasting machine 11 collectively wired to detonators 13, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that communication may alternatively be carried out in a wireless manner in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0033] The blasting machine 11 typically coordinates the detonation of the detonators 13. For example, the blasting machine 11 can verify the functioning of vital equipment, such as detonators, and explosion energy while synchronizing the counters and energizing all detonators in turn by means of a shot signal. Although the blasting machine 11 shown in Fig. 1 includes advanced programming, user interface and communication technologies, the skilled artisan will recognize that a suitable blasting machine for the purposes of this description may include any of a wide range of devices that are able to effectively execute the program and send the necessary signals.

[0034] The blasting machine 11 sends a shot signal to each detonator 13. To this end, the blasting machine 11 typically includes a processor for generating and a port or antenna for transmitting the shot signal to the detonators 13. The blasting machine 11 also has the property of a fully automatic self-test to ensure proper operation. Such self-testing may include, among other potential problems, open circuit monitoring, current leakage, unauthorized reprogramming and omissions, as well as missing and undocumented detonators.

[0035] Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a technician 31 standing at a borehole 14 with a unit

Programming. Wiring 44 programming unit 12 provides a connection to detonator 13 to enable bidirectional communication. As such, unit 12 may program the detonator 13 using the Global Positioning System ("GPS"), acceleration mirnik and / or other position readings. In particular, the programming unit 12 is in one respect adapted to automatically determine and send to the detonator a delay time that is based on the displacement of the programming unit 12. In another or the same embodiment of the present invention, the programming unit 12 automatically determines and transmits the delay time based on the actual GPS position of the detonator 13.

[0036] To this end, the programming unit 12 may include a controller / processor, a computer, a computer system or other programmable electronic device capable of receiving and loading information regarding the shots. The programming unit 12 processor is typically connected to memory, which may include supplementary memory levels, e.g., cache, non-volatile or backup memory, read-only memory, etc.

[0037] For convenience and for practical reasons, the programming unit 12 shown in Fig. 2 includes a hand-held device. As such, other suitable programming units may include, among other processing devices, a laptop, pager, cell phone, or Personal Digital Assistant ("PDA"). Furthermore, the programming unit 12 may be implemented using multiple computers / controllers, and as described below, multiple programming units 12 may be used for a single blasting operation.

[0038] The programming unit 12 may further include an antenna 46 for receiving and / or transmitting information useful in performing the shot sequence. Such information may include receiving a GPS signal. Component

The antenna display keypad 46 can additionally be used in loading information to one or both of the generators 13 and the blasting machine 11. Other communications using wireless transmission may include communications between other programming units 12.

[0039] As such, the programming unit 12 may include a position determination device, such as a GPS receiver / transponder. As such, the program code can process GPS readings to determine the direction and distance traveled by the receiver. The programming unit 12 of another embodiment may include an acceleration meter. An example acceleration meter includes a device configured to generate an electronic output signal in response to a displacement. In particular, the output signal may be proportional to the inertia / displacement detected by the memory feet housed in the acceleration meter housing. As such, the program code of the present invention may process such an output signal so that it arrives at the appropriate distance and / or direction traveled by the programming unit 12 having an acceleration meter. [0040] The programming unit 12 usually also receives a number of input and output signals for external information transmission. In order to contact a technician 31, the programming unit 12 typically includes a connecting user interface or more user input devices 36 (e.g., e.g., keyboard, ball, touch panel and / or (e.g., e.g., LCD monitor and / or speaker) . As with the blasting machine 11 discussed above, the programming unit 12 may include, but is not limited to, a floppy disk drive or other removable disk drive, a hard disk, a direct access storage device, an optical and / or infrared communication device (e.g., for communication with a microphone) ) and CRT, panel

Detonator) and / or tape drive. The memory may contain a CAD file, such as a project image file or drill image file. Other memory may include a database configured to correlate the detonator 13 with the identifier, delay time and / or other shot information. In any case, one of ordinary skill in the art will know that the attachment and distribution of memory and programs of programming units 12 and other system components 10 can be substantially interchanged while complying with the principles of the present invention.

[0041] Furthermore, the programming unit 12 may include an interface 42 and / or 44 to the blasting machine 11 and / or detonator 13. The programming unit 12 may operate under the control of the operating system and execute, or otherwise rely on various computer software applications, components , programs, objects, modules, data structures, etc. Furthermore, various applications, components, programs, objects, modules, etc. it can also be run on one or more processors in another computer communicating with the programming unit 12 and / or blasting machine 11. In general, the proceedings carried out to implement the embodiments of the present invention, both implemented as part of the operating system and as a specific application, component , program, object, module or instruction sequence, or even a subset thereof, will be referred to herein as "program code". The program code usually contains one or more instructions that are present at different times in different memories and memory devices in the programming unit 12 or shot machine 22, and which, when read and executed by one or more processors in the computer, cause, that the computer implements the steps necessary to perform steps or elements covering various aspects of the invention.

[0042] Furthermore, while the invention has been and will continue to be described in a fully functioning context

Controllers, computers and processing systems will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various embodiments of the invention may be distributed as a computer program product in various forms, and that the invention is applied in the same way, regardless of the particular type of signal transmission medium used for real conducting distribution. Examples of the signal transfer medium include, but are not limited to, recordable types of media such as volatile and non-volatile storage devices, floppy disks and other removable disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, optical disks (e.g., CD-ROMs, DVDs, etc.), and transmission type media such as digital and analog communication links, but are not limited to them.

[0043]

In addition, the different program code described below can be identified based on the application that is implemented in a specific embodiment of the invention. However, it should be noted that the names of any particular program that appears here are used for convenience only, and therefore the invention should not be restricted to use in any specific and / or designated such use only identified names. In addition, given the usually infinite number of ways in which programs can be organized as procedures, procedures, methods, modules, objects and the like, as well as the various ways in which program functionality can be allocated in different software layers, which are present in a typical processor (e.g. operating system, applets, etc.), it should be noted that the invention is not limited to the specific organization and allocation of program functionality described herein.

[0044] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the exemplary environment shown in Figs. 1 and 2 is not intended to limit the present invention. For example, one of ordinary skill in the art will further note that aspects of the blasting machine 11 may be included in the programming unit 12 when desired. It means that

The programming unit 12 may, for example, perform a security and system integrity check, and among other functions, generate a shot signal. In any case, those skilled in the art will recognize that other alternative hardware and / or software environments can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0045] Fig. 3 shows an exemplary display 48 applicable to the programming unit 12 of Fig. 2. The display 48 includes a CAD display 50 configured to show the position 53 of the programming unit relative to the location of the borehole 14A. The location of the drilling holes 14A may be pre-programmed in the programming unit 12 or fixed in the field by a technician 31 using the programming unit 12 as part of the programming sequence. In the case where the drilling hole location 14A has been pre-programmed in a drill image file or other CAD file that has been loaded into the programming unit 12, the program code may determine the location of the drilling hole 14A that is closest to the location 53 of the programming unit. For example, the programming unit of the example in Fig. 3 is closest to the wellbore location 54. The program code can compare the GPS reading obtained with the programming unit 12 with the coordinates of the expected location of the borehole 54 to determine the actual location of the detonator 13. There may be discrepancies between the actual and expected location due to the terrain conditions during drilling that require changing the expected location of the hole 54 drilling. Line 55 of the display 50 graphically represents such a deviation. As such, technician 31 can visually confirm the actual coordinates of the borehole.

[0046] The actual location of the borehole will be recorded in the memory of the programming unit 12 to the target

53 / 59P24119EN00 includes the subsequent loading into the blasting machine 11. The exemplary display 48 additionally shows the delay time 56 to be programmed in the detonator 13. The identifier shown in field 58 of the display 48 can additionally be loaded into the detonator 13 from the programming unit 12. An order identifier or command number / address can be automatically generated or recalled from memory, if appropriate. Among other functions, the identifier may be used as a reference for recalling and storing information of the respective detonator 13. Field 60 in Fig, the actual coordinates of the detonator 13, which are stored in conjunction with identifier 58 and delay time 56. Other features supported by example display 48 allow technician 31 to add a detonator using field 62. This property can assist technician 31 when the needed detonator has been omitted from the loaded project.

[0047] When desired, the display 48 of the programming unit 12 may have the positioning properties configured to guide the technician 31 towards the detonator 13. For example, the technician 31 may enter the positioning mode of the system 10 by clicking on field 63 of the exemplary display 48. Positioning mode may include arrows on the display 50 CAD of the same programming unit 12 for graphic manipulations performed by technician 31. The 64 and 65 buttons respectively cancel and confirm allow the technician 31 to modify or confirm the entered data. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other display 48 tool tip interface features may be included in another display 48 that is adapted to the principles of the present invention.

[0048]

Fig. 4 shows an exemplary sequence of method steps adapted for implementation in a hardware environment with

Fig. 1. In particular, a flow diagram 100 of Fig.

outlines processes adapted for programming

Detonator 13 according to the displacement and / or position of the programming unit 12. As shown by block 102, technician 31 may initialize one or more programming units 12. Such initialization processes may include verification of the correct authorization codes and functionalities of the units 12. When multiple programming units 12 are used in blasting robots, unique identifiers can be assigned to the respective programming units 12. For example, it may be advantageous to program a large dial layer with detonators 13 by using three or more programming units 12 simultaneously for speed and other performance reasons. As such, the first thousand command numbers or other identifiers can be assigned to the first programming unit 12, while subsequent sets of one thousand are assigned to two other programming units 12. After assignment in block 104, identifiers may already be associated with the borehole location 14A or may be automatically assigned by the programming unit 12 to the detonator 13 during the programming sequence, as described below.

[0049] The flexibility and versatility of the programming unit 12 makes it possible to assist technicians in programming detonators under various conditions. For example, when a detonator map is to be used in a programming sequence, this map may be recovered by the programming unit 12 along with other shot information as shown by block 106 in Fig. 4. Such a map may include a drill image file or other electronic file specifying the location of detonators 14A. As such, the recovered map usually contains the intended coordinates for detonators 13, which are then stored in the programming unit 12. When desired, the map recovered during step 106 may

Additionally include pre-assigned identifiers associated with the map coordinates.

[0050] By proceeding under these conditions at block 110 in Fig. 4, the technician 31 may approach the detonator 13 to determine its position using a GPS, acceleration meter or other programming device for determining the position of the programming unit 12. This predetermined position may be saved for later use, as shown by block 119. For example, the saved, predefined position may be loaded into the blasting machine 11.

[0051] The actual position is correlated with the shot information stored with the map, as shown by block 112. For example, the position specified in block 110 may be associated with map coordinates to recover the order number also associated with map coordinates. As discussed in detail with reference to Fig. 7, the programming unit 12 may generate delay time and / or other information regarding the shots in response to any of: the actual location, the recalled instruction number or the map coordinate. In one embodiment, the map file recovered during step 106 also includes delay times that are also recovered as shown by block 112. Such shot information can be displayed to technician 31 through the display 48 of programming unit 12. [0052] If technician 31 in block 114 does not agree with the displayed information regarding the shots, then technician 31 may omit it and enter new information where appropriate, as shown by blocks 115 and 116. This action will be recorded for purposes documentation and records as shown by block 117. In any case, shot information can be loaded into the detonator 13 as shown by block 118 in Fig. 4. Block 119 shows loaded shot information that is saved for later use.

[0053] Different or the same programming sequence as shown in Fig. 4 may include determining shot information based on the movement of the programming unit 12. Such a feature may allow the technician 31 to create a map or other information regarding the shots on the selection layer, in real time. In addition, technician 31 can generate such shot information independently of complex planning and mathematical and organizational processes. For example, a technician 31 may set software parameters configured to translate the movement of the programming unit 12 into shot information as shown by block 120. In one application, for example, a technician 31 may determine that a time of three milliseconds will be added to the respective delay time of the detonator 13 for each foot by which the detonator 12 is away from the reference point. Thus, setting parameters may include determining one or more reference points. While the reference point usually includes the position of the detonator, the appropriate reference point may contain a physical or software object associated with a coordinate set.

[0054] The parameters may further comprise a directional component. For example, detonators located in the opposite direction to the first direction of travel in the above example may have an associated delay time that increases by five milliseconds for each foot by which the programming unit 12 moves in a given direction from a reference point.

[0055] Once these parameters have been set, the programming unit 12 can monitor the movement, as shown by block 121. In response to the detected displacement, the embodiment of the programming unit 12 can determine the new position, as shown by block 122. This means that the programming unit can use GPS, a meter

Acceleration or other position indication techniques to determine the location of the programming unit 12.

Using this information in conjunction with the known location of the reference point, the program code can determine the distance and direction of displacement, as shown by blocks 126 and 128, respectively.

[0056] The program code may process distance and direction information as a function of the parameters set during step 120 to determine shot information as shown by block 130. For example, such shot information may include delay times. Where appropriate, shot information may include the actual coordinates of the detonators 13. All this information is saved after loading into the detonator 13 for use in creating a complete and final blasting plan that can be loaded into the blasting machine.

time time [0057] Technician 31 may increase or modify shot information as desired, as shown by block 132. Such modification may include changing delay. Configured in this way, changing one delay can affect subsequent delay times. For example, changing the delay time of the first detonator may cause the delay times of other detonators logically connected to the first detonator to be changed by the same time. For example, increasing the delay time of the first detonator in a given row of detonators by 100 milliseconds may cause the respective delay times of each detonator in that row to be automatically increased by 100 milliseconds or by some other amount specified as a change function by the technician.

[0058] In this way, technician 31 can go from one borehole to another without being burdened with having a blasting plan in place. Such a feature is

It is particularly advantageous when the data needed to compile the project file is difficult or cumbersome to obtain. As such, the technician 31 can approach the next borehole 14, the programming code of the programming unit 12 will automatically determine and identifier based on the reference point will send the delay time and / or the new detonator position

For example, the programming unit 12 may increase the numerical counter containing the identifier by providing a new identifier that is loaded to the next detonator 13 in block 136, along with the specified delay time.

[0059] Once the programming sequence is complete, the entire blasting plan generated by the programming unit 12 can be loaded into the machine, as shown by block 142. The loaded plan usually includes, in addition to other requested information about the shots, specific coordinates, identifiers and times delays. Using the machine protocol, self tests can be performed, as shown by block 144. For example, the blasting machine 11 may check the non-responsive communication links. Since the programming unit 12 has been assigned non-contradictory identifiers during step 104, it is certain that no detonator 13 will be programmed twice. Permanent copies of reports can be generated for expert judgment and for documentation purposes, as shown in block 146.

[0060] The flow chart 200 in Fig. 5 shows the sequence for setting up sample steps of the method for useful parameters, as discussed in connection with block 120 in Fig. 4. Such configuration processes include assigning identifiers to the programming unit 212 as shown by block 202 in Fig. 5. One unique identifier may be assigned to each detonator 13 to facilitate organization and streamline detonation sequences. If the parameters are to be set relative to the reference point,

The actual or imaginary coordinates of this reference point may be determined by technician 31, as shown by block 204 in Fig. 5. As discussed herein, the reference point may include a set or sets of coordinates. When so configured, the technician 31 may then determine the first delay time in block 206. For example, a delay time of 150 milliseconds can be set for the first detonator 13, which can additionally have a reference point. The first delay time may then be associated with the section, as shown by block 208. The section may contain one or more detonators. For example, a section for the purposes of this specification may include a single detonator or a row of detonators.

[0061] In combination with the section determined during step 208, technician 31 can determine the delay time increments, as shown by blocks 210 to 218. Such increments are typically specific to directions and distances relative to a reference point. For example, the technician 31 may set parameters of the programming unit 12 to automatically determine the delay time for the detonator 13 as a function of its relative north distance from the reference point. As such, technician 31 may determine during step 210 that three milliseconds of delay time will be added to 100 milliseconds of the first delay time set in block 206, for each foot or other distance value by which the detonator is shifted north of the specified reference point. Thus, the detonator 13, which is located 200 feet north of the reference point, will have a delay time that is 600 milliseconds greater than the first set delay time. Similarly, technician 31 may set to automatically increase delay times for other directions, as shown in blocks 212 to 216. If desired, technician 31 may set exceptions to these general instructions, as shown in block 218. For example,

Such an exception can be imposed by the surrounding area or as a function of the formwork material. If desired, many such sections can be fixed and preserved as shown by blocks 220, 208 and 222.

[0062] Fig. 6 shows an exemplary display 48 configured to confirm, suggest or facilitate parameter setting discussed in connection with Fig. 5. The display 48 includes an internal display 300 showing the position 304 of the programming unit 12 relative to the detonators 14B and the blasting wall 33B. The actual coordinates of the borehole 14B according to the programming unit 12 are shown in field 326. As discussed here, actual coordinates can be collected from a GPS transponder, acceleration meter or other positioning device. Field 328 in Fig. 6 displays the order number or other appropriate identifier. If configured in this way, an identifier can be automatically generated and saved when technician 31 approaches or stands above borehole 14. It should be understood that when the specification relates to technician 31 moving toward the borehole 14, it can alternatively be read that technician 31 moves toward one or more detonators 13. In addition, each detonator 13 can be separately programmed in accordance with the principles of this invention.

The position display 300 may allow a technician 31 to determine an opening, row, block or other section using cursor keys, voice commands, programming touch screens or other known input features. For example, the exemplary display in Fig. 6 allows a technician 31 to determine a row B as shown in field 306. This interactive feature of the internal display 300 can be activated by the technician selecting link 308. Technician 31 may alternatively designate a section in field 306 using the pull-down window or text input field.

[0064] Timing can be set in fields 310 to 318. For example, the reference delay time can be set in field 310. The reference point can be selected and determined by link / button 324. The delay between the drill holes 14 can be set in the sample fields 312 and 313. For example, the distance between the boreholes 14 can be set such that for each foot in the lateral direction (east or west) from the reference point, an increase and accumulation of 23 milliseconds will automatically occur. The north or south movement of the zero / reference point may cause a rise of 47 milliseconds for each foot traveled longitudinally and relative to the reference point.

[0065] The actual distance between the holes can be displayed and recorded in boxes 316 and 318. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the programming code of the programming unit 12 may automatically adjust delay times when the actual distance between the holes differs from the designated holes. For example, when a delay time has been predetermined for a given detonator 13 based on a project image file, this delay time may be programmatically modified as a function of its actual distance from the reference point differing from its designated distance. Delay times, such as between different sections, in this example between rows can be set using link 320.

[0066] The exemplary display further provides a link 326 for editing the formwork. The formwork relates to multi-level positioning of detonators 13 and wafers / explosives inside the borehole 14. Activation of link 326 can activate the display of the borehole cross-section, which can be edited and saved according to the actual formwork conditions. If technician 31 does not want to automatically increase delay times, he can activate

Operation of the 322 manual link mode programming unit. The skilled person will understand that another example display may contain and accept additional data in accordance with technician specification 31 and system requirements.

[0067] The flow chart 400 in Fig. 7 illustrates a series of sample process steps for determining shot information based on the actual detonator position. In block 401, technician 31 initializes the programming unit 12. Such initialization processes may include verification of the correct authorization codes and functionalities of the units 12, as discussed in more detail in the text describing Fig. 4. The map and / or other parametric data may be recovered in block 402. This information may already be loaded into the programming unit 12, for example in the form of a project image file.

[0068] The technician 31 first locates the detonator 13, as shown by block 404. Then, the GPS receiver, which is preferably built into the programming unit 12, is positioned at the actual location of the detonator, as shown by block 406. In a typical application, the receiver

The GPS / programming unit 12 is operatively connected to the detonator 13, as shown by block 406. As a result, the GPS position received at this time reflects the actual position of the detonator 13. Block 410 shows the reception of actual GPS position data at that point. Then, the program code stored in the programming unit 12 may determine the delay time, command number, and other shot information related to the detonator 13, as shown by block 412. For example, the program code may specify the delay time as a function of the detonator's distance from a specific point reference.

[0069] Information regarding shots can be automatically displayed to technician 31. If allowed, technician 31 may skip specific information about shots, such as

53 / 59P24119EN00 is shown by block 414. Any changes to the information regarding shots loaded into the detonator in block 418 will be recorded in programming unit 12. Finally, shot information loaded and saved by the programming unit 12 is loaded into the blasting machine 11 as shown by block 420.

[0070] In operation, the technician 31 moves the programming unit 12 to the location of the detonator 13. When the programming unit 12 is in the detonator position, it automatically determines the shot information for the detonator. For example, the programming unit 12 may determine shot information based on the movement of the unit 12 over the distance to the actual location of the detonator 13. Alternatively, the programming unit 12 may determine shot information based on the actual location of the detonator 13, as determined by the unit 12 program code. Technician 31 then uses the programming unit 12 to load shot information into the detonator 13. The programming unit 12 automatically saves in its memory information and particulars related to loading shot information. The blasting machine 11 communicates later with the programming unit 12 to receive the contents of the unit's memory. The shot signal from the shot blasting machine 11 then detonates the detonator 13 according to the desired blasting pattern.

[0071] While the present application describes one currently preferred embodiment of the present invention and several variations of this preferred embodiment, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the invention allows for the possibility of a number of structural and program differences in relation to the specific details shown and described herein. For example, any of the exemplary stages of the above flowchart can be expanded, replaced, omitted and / or rearranged.

And at the same time will continue to comply with the basic principles of the present invention. In addition, while embodiments of the present invention have specific uses in the context of mining operations, other preferred embodiments may also be applicable in the fields of pyrotechnics / fireworks, special effects, civil engineering, seismic research, military, demolition, law enforcement and industry, among others personal protection. Thus, it should be understood that the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details of the embodiments shown or described. In other words, the embodiments shown and described in a particular manner are not intended to limit or narrow the scope of the appended claims.