Patent Grant
6851369
The present invention relates to the field of remote actuation of detonators. More specifically, the invention relates to systems and methods for improving the safety and/or preventing unauthorized usage of blasting systems involving detonators.
Typical blasting systems can involve one or more blasting machines, each in direct communication with a plurality of detonators. Command signals can be transmitted to the blasting machine(s) by a central command station that is located remote from the vicinity of the blast. Such command signals may include signals to ARM, FIRE or DISARM the detonators.
The communication between the central command station and the blasting machine typically occurs via radio-communication, but may also involve direct electric or non-electric connection. Likewise, the communication between the blasting machine and the detonators may also involve radiocommunication, but more typically involves direct connection, for example, via electrical wiring. In any event, command signals transmitted by the central command station are received by the one or more blasting machines, and subsequently relayed to the detonators.
In any blasting system, safety considerations are paramount. Several systems and methods have been previously developed to help improve the safety of blasting systems, with the intention of preventing unintentional detonator actuation, premature blasting prior to proper evacuation of the blast area, or unauthorized use of the blasting system.
In one example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,674,047 issued Jun. 16, 1987, discloses a detonation system in which a number of electronic detonators can each be programmed with a unique identification number and delay time by means of a user-operable firing console. A command from the firing console includes a unit identification code which is used to address or designate a specific integrated delay detonator. The system may further include additional security code measures to help prevent unauthorized use.
In another example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,298,438 issued Mar. 22, 1994 discloses an apparatus for timing and initiating a multi-shot blast involving a transportable programming tool for individually programming a plurality of electronic detonator arrangements with delay time data relative to a common initiate command signal. The detonators are all connected to a control unit via a single cable, and an initiation signal triggers the detonator delay units to start timing our their respective programmed delay times. A similar arrangement is disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 5,894,103 issued Apr. 13, 1999. However, the system provides for multiple detonator circuits in connection with a control unit, wherein each detonator circuit can be separately programmed with a delay time. Moreover, each detonator circuit is assigned a specific identification code for individual communication with the control unit. The system further includes a portable device for programming the delay times into the control unit.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,520,114 issued May 28, 1996, discloses an apparatus and method for firing detonators involving a programming unit for programming a series of ignition modules with delay times. The firing console can subsequently simultaneously interrogate the ignition modules, which send back the requested information to program the firing console with the delay times. The firing console and the programming unit may be fitted with encoding means designed to limit their access to authorized users, and with means for internal mutual recognition before the transfer of delay times from the programming unit to the firing console. Further optional safety features require the operator to know recognition codes to access the firing and programming consoles. For example, the firing console can be fitted with a magnetic card for authorizing its use.
In yet another example, International Patent Application PCT/AU98/00929 published Nov. 6, 1998 discloses an electromagnetic induction detonation system involving an automated radio charge (ARCH) module connectable to an electric detonator and a transducer. The system further includes a remote controller for sending instructions to the transducer module from a remote location. Actuation of the detonator requires the transducer module to generate an electromagnetic field which is used to power the ARCH module and provide a detonation current. In one embodiment, the remote controller includes means for the manual entry of instructions by which a user must enter a valid identification number within a predetermined time period in order for the remote controller to establish a radio communication link with the transducer unit. In another embodiment, the remote controller unit includes a processor means for generating a unique identification code word which is continuously transmitted until an acknowledgement signal is received from the transducer unit corresponding to the identification code word. In the absence of receipt of the acknowledgement signal within a predetermined time period the remote controller adopts a ‘reset’ mode, thereby requiring a user to enter a new valid identification code before communication with the transducer unit is re-established.
In another example, International Patent Application PCT/EP99/08122 published May 11, 2000 discloses a detonation system for detonators which can be initiated by radio signals. The system includes at least one initiation device connected to at least one detonator, and a detonation device that can communicate with the initiation device via radio signals. At least one of the initiation units contains a removable data carrier which can be inserted into the detonation unit. In addition, the detonation device includes a reading device for reading the data on the inserted data carrier. The initiation device and the data support allocated thereto contain identical identification characteristics and information necessary for initiating the connected detonator. The initiation device is activated by removing the data carrier, and can be placed in a receiving state (or a transmitting/receiving state for bi-directional communication). Likewise, the detonation device is placed in a transmitting standby mode or a transmitting and receiving standby mode after inputting the data from the data carrier.
In a final example, International Patent Application PCT/AU00/00351 published Oct. 26, 2000 discloses a method and system for controlling a blasting network for use where spurious command signals may be passed through a blasting controller to the blasting network without the authorization of the authorized user, for example when the controller is connected to the Internet or Intranet. The system includes a firewall whereby the communication link between the controller and the blasting network can be placed in a control mode by a switch. In the control mode, designated unsafe messages are prevented from reaching the blasting network.
The detonation systems of the prior art thus provide various means for improving the safety and security of the blasting process. Nonetheless, no blasting system can provide absolute safety and security, and there remains a need for improved blasting systems configured to reduce the possibility of inappropriate detonator actuation or unauthorized use.
An object of the present invention, at least in a preferred form, is to provide systems and methods for actuating detonators with improved safety and security.
Another object of the present invention, at least in a preferred form, is to provide a system involving cross-communication between components of a detonation system for the purposes of verification that the system is operated by an authorized user.
Another object of the present invention, at least in a preferred form, is to provide a system involving cross-communication between components of a detonation system for the purposes of verification that the conditions are appropriate for safe firing of the detonators.
In a first aspect of the present invention, there is provides an apparatus for controlling a plurality of detonators comprising:
Preferably, any one data package further comprises a unique identification code corresponding to the blasting machine that generated said any one data package. Preferably, the central command station transmits the data package(s) and the command signal(s) to the blasting machine(s) simultaneously. Alternatively, the central command station transmits the data package(s) and the command signal(s) to the blasting machine(s) sequentially.
Preferably, the central command station further includes encryption means, and each blasting machine further includes descrambling means, so that the one or more command signals and/or the one or more transmitted data packages are encrypted by the encryption means upon transmission from the central command station, and descrambled by the descrambling means upon receipt by each blasting machine. More preferably, the one or more command signals and/or the one or more data packages are encrypted by 32 bit encryption.
Preferably, in accordance with the apparatus of the present invention, the randomly generated access codes are active for a single blasting event. Preferably, the randomly generated access codes are active within a predetermined time window, outside of which the one or more blasting machines will not respond to the one or more command signals and the one or more data packages transmitted by said central command station. Preferably, the central command station is located remote from the one or more blasting machines and said detonators. More preferably, the one or more blasting machines and the central command station are in radio-signal communication.
Preferably, the one or more detonators are in signal communication with the one or more blasting machines via low energy detonation cord, shock tube, or electrical connection.
In another aspect of the apparatus of the present invention, the one or more authorization keys may preferably comprise a single authorization key transferable between the one or more blasting machines for storing each of the one or more data packages.
Preferably, the command signals include ARM, FIRE, or DISARM signals. More preferably, the FIRE signals are specific for each detonator or each group of detonators, each FIRE signal including a delay component to specify a firing delay for each detonator or each group of detonators thereby determining a firing sequence for the detonators.
In another aspect, the apparatus of the present invention may further comprise:
In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of controlling a plurality of detonators, the method comprising the steps of:
In accordance with the above-described method of the present invention, preferably any one data package further comprises a unique identification code corresponding to the blasting machine that generated said any one data package. Preferably, in step (g) of the above-described method the central command station transmits the data package(s) and the command signal(s) to the blasting machine(s) simultaneously. Preferably, in step (g) of the above-described method the central command station transmits the data package(s) and the command signal(s) to the blasting machine(s) sequentially. Preferably, the one or more command signals and/or the one or more transmitted data packages are encrypted upon transmission by the central command station, and descrambled upon receipt by each blasting machine. More preferably, in step (g) the one or more command signals and/or the one or more data packages are encrypted by 32 bit encryption. Preferably, the randomly generated access codes are active for a single blasting event. Preferably, the randomly generated access codes are active within a predetermined time window, outside of which the blasting machine will not respond to said one or more command signals and said one or more data packages transmitted by said central command station.
In accordance with another aspect of the methods of the present invention, the central command station is preferably located remote from said one or more blasting machines and said one or more detonators. More preferably, the one or more blasting machines and the central command station are in radio-signal communication.
Preferably, each group of detonators is in signal communication with each blasting machine via low energy detonation cord, shock tube, or electrical connection.
Preferably, in accordance with the methods of the present invention, the one or more authorization keys comprises a single authorization key transferable between the one or more blasting machines and the central command station for storing each of the one or more data packages.
Preferably, the one or more command signals include ARM, FIRE, or DISARM signals. More preferably, the FIRE signals are specific for each detonator or group of detonators, each FIRE signal including a delay component to specify a firing delay for each detonator or group of detonators thereby determining a firing sequence for the detonators.
In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of controlling initiation of a plurality of detonators each having a unique built-in firing code, the method comprising the steps of:
Preferably, in accordance with the above-described method, any one data package may further comprise a unique identification code corresponding to the blasting machine that generated said any one data package. Preferably, in step (i) the central command station transmits the detonator codes, the data package(s) and the command signal(s) to the blasting machine(s) simultaneously. Preferably, in step (i) the central command station transmits the detonator codes, the data package(s) and the command signal(s) to the blasting machine(s) sequentially. Preferably, the master key further stores user identification information for recognition by said central command station. Preferably, the detonator firing codes comprise detonator identification codes and/or detonator delay times.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is provided a system for controlling one or more detonators, the system comprising:
In another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of controlling a system for initiating one or more detonators, the method comprising the steps of:
In another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of controlling initiation of one or more detonators, the method comprising the steps of:
‘Blasting machine’—a device in signal communication with one or more detonators, for arming, disarming, and firing thereof via the receipt and/or relay of signals transmitted from a central command station. A typical blasting machine may be in communication with one or more detonators or groups of detonators via radio-communication or direct physical connection (e.g. low energy detonating cord, shock tube, or electrical connection).
<(Blasting machine/unique) ‘identification code’>—any form of code that provides unique identification of a specific blasting machine, and differentiates that blasting machine from other blasting machines in the apparatus or system. Typically, an identification code may be semi-permanently assigned to a blasting machine for a predetermined time period, or for the lifetime of the blasting machine.
‘Central command station’—any device that transmits signals via radio-transmission or by direct connection, to one or more blasting machines. The transmitted signals may be encoded, or encrypted. Typically, the central blasting station permits radio communication with multiple blasting machines from a location remote from the blast site.
‘Detonator firing code’—includes both identification information and/or delay time information for an individual detonator or a group of detonators.
‘Key’—any portable means for storing data.
‘Randomly generated access code’—any form of code that is generated at random sufficient to provide a form of identity to the blasting machine and corresponding data package. Such a code may take the form of digital, analog etc. code. Typically, such a code will be in digital format, and be ‘active’ for only a single or a few blasting events.
The present invention provides significant improvements to the blasting apparatus or system disclosed in international patent application PCT/EP99/08122. The improvements include the addition of several new features, which co-operate together to improve the operative safety and security of the system. International patent application PCT/EP99/08122 pertains to a relatively simple blasting system that includes some useful aspects, including the use of a data carrier to transfer identification information from one or more blasting machines to a central command station. It is the intention of the present invention to utilize the technology disclosed in PCT/EP99/08122, and to incorporate this technology into a system and method for blasting that provides a higher degree of safety and security on multiple levels.
The prior art apparatus disclosed in PCT/EP99/08122 is illustrated schematically in FIG. 1. The system includes one or more blasting machines 10 (for ease of illustration only one blasting machine is indicated in FIG. 1). Each blasting machine 10 is connected to a plurality of detonators 11, and can transmit a signal to arm, disarm or fire one or more of the detonators as appropriate. The system further includes a central command station 12, which can be located at a spatial distance from the blasting machine(s), whereby at least the central command station can communicate with the blasting machine(s) via radio signals (or other communication means). At least one of the blasting machines includes a removable data carrier (13), which can be removed from the blasting machine and inserted into the central command station. The blasting machine and the data carrier allocated thereto contain identical identification characteristics and information necessary for initiating the connected detonators. Transfer of the data carrier from the blasting machine to the central command station may preferably activate transmit and receive characteristics of the two system components. Once the data carrier is inserted into the central command station the identification characteristics and detonator initiation information can be transferred into the memory of the central command station to subsequently activate communication 14 with the blasting machine.
The apparatus or system of the present invention is illustrated schematically in FIG. 2. In one aspect, the system differs from that illustrated in
The randomly generated access code is incorporated into a data package 25. The randomly generated access code can by itself be sufficient to assign a unique identity to the blasting machine in question for one or more blasting events. However, it is most preferable for the data package to further comprise additional identification information specific to the blasting machine, such as for example a unique blasting machine identification code, which can be used for single or multiple blasting events, or preferably can provide a permanent identity to the blasting machine when integrated into an operational blasting system.
In any event, the blasting machine stores the data package and further provides a copy of the data package 25 on an authorization key 23. The authorization key 23 may take any form of data storage device that is readily portable and transferable to a location remote from the blasting machine. Most preferably, the authorization key 23 takes the form of a key to switch the blasting machine 20 on. In this way the key may be inserted into the blasting machine, and the process of switching on the blasting machine instigates the random generation of a new access code, and the recordal of the code on the key (preferably together with the relevant blasting machine identification code). Most preferably, removal of the authorization key from the blasting machine deactivates the blasting machine, and renders the blasting machine ‘safe’. However, the blasting machine is preferably configured to retain the capacity for receiving signals from the central command station when in ‘safe’ mode.
After removing the authorization key 23 from the blasting machine 20 the key is transferred together with the data package 25 the central command station 22, which receives the data package including the randomly generated access code. Command signals 24 (radio or otherwise) transmitted by the central command station to the blasting machine(s) may be accompanied by the data package 26. In this way, each signal is effectively directed to a specific blasting machine according to the randomly generated access code (and the unique identification code, if present). Most importantly, the selected blasting machine will only respond to the command signal(s) if at least one of the randomly generated access codes received from the central command station corresponds to the randomly generated access code originally generated and stored by the blasting machine in question.
The embodiment described above pertains to the simultaneous transmission by the central command station of the command signals and the data packages. However, the signals do not need to be transmitted in this way. Alternatively, the signals may be transmitted sequentially in any order. For example, the blasting machines may receive the command signals prior to the data packages (or vice versa) and integrate the information once all of the appropriate signals have been received.
The apparatus illustrated in
The embodiment illustrated in
Apart from generating a safer blasting environment, the use of randomly generated access codes in combination with one or more authorization keys helps in the prevention of unauthorized use of the blasting system. Preferably, if the authorization keys become lost or damaged then expiry of the access codes will prevent subsequent abuse of the system.
To further improve the security of the system, it is further preferred that the transmission of signals from the central command station to the blasting machine(s) is encrypted. For this purpose, signals originating from the central command station may be encrypted (e.g. by 32 bit encryption), and subsequently descrambled upon receipt by the blasting machine. In this way command signals and/or data packages transmitted by the central command station will be less susceptible to interception and possible abuse by an unauthorized third party, thereby further improving the overall security of the blasting system.
An alternative and preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 3. The system is similar that the embodiment illustrated in
Once the master key 30 has been inserted appropriately into the central command station, the data stored on the master key (optionally including user identification information, and detonator firing codes) is transferred to the central command station. If the user identification information is not recognized by the central command station then the central command station will not be activated to transmit information. However, if the user identification information (if present) on the master key is positively identified by the central command station, then the central command station will be activated ready to transmit information and command signals as required.
The detonator firing codes may also be transferred from the master key to the central command station, for subsequent transmission 31 to the detonators via the one or more blasting machines. Each blasting machine effectively relays the detonator firing codes from the central command station to the detonators.
The present embodiment therefore has an additional safety feature whereby this relay may only occur if the selected blasting machine is activated by the receipt of a data package from the central command station, optionally including identification information corresponding to the blasting machine, as well as a randomly generated access code corresponding to a stored access code specifically generated for the blast event. Without the data package the relay of the detonator codes and/or delay times will be blocked. The command signals and the data packages may be transmitted from the central command station to the blasting machine at any time either before, simultaneously with, or after the transmission of the detonator firing codes from the master key. The blasting machine will only relay the firing codes to the detonators when in receipt of the appropriate command signal(s) and data package (s).
The present invention further pertains to corresponding methods for the actuation of one or more detonators. In one embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method involving the steps outlined in FIG. 4. In initial steps 50 and 51 there are provided a central command station and one or more blasting machines. For ease of illustration only one blasting machine will be discussed from this point forwards. Subsequently, the blasting machine is initiated to generate a data package in step 52, wherein the data package comprises a randomly generated access code (and optionally a unique identification code for the blasting machine). At step 53, the data package is stored on an authorization key, which is transferred from the blasting machine to the central command station at step 54. Subsequently, the data package is transmitted by the central command station back to the blasting machine at step 59, where the blasting machine conducts a comparison of the generated and received data packages at steps 55 and 56. A decision is made at step 56 regarding whether the generated and received data packages correspond. If the packages do not correspond then the blasting machine is effectively remains inactive (step 57). In contrast, if the generated and received data packages do correspond at step 58, then the blasting machine is activated to respond to any command signals that accompany the data package or may be received within predetermined conditions (e.g. time limits) after or before receipt of the data package.
In a further embodiment of the present invention there is provided a preferred method involving the use of a master key, as illustrated in FIG. 5. The method illustrated includes many steps that correspond to those indicated in
The detonator firing codes (and authorized user identification information if present) are transferred to the central command station at step 71 and subsequently transmitted (via radio signals or otherwise) to the blasting machine at step 72. At this stage, the purpose of the blasting machine is to relay the detonator firing codes to the detonators. However, this will only be possible if the blasting machine is active to process the firing codes by recognition of a suitable data package and other appropriate command signals from the blasting machine, as previously described. If the blasting machine has not received any appropriate data package or command signals from the central command station then the blasting machine will default to an inactive or ‘standby’ mode, and not process the detonator firing codes. Alternatively, if the blasting machine is activated by the receipt of a suitable data package and command signals, then the blasting machine will successfully relay the firing codes to the detonators for actuation thereof (step 74). Although the present embodiment has been described with reference to firing codes, the master key may alternatively store other signals/codes signals for communication with and/or control of the detonators, or groups of detonators. Such alternative signals may include, but are not limited to, arm and disarm signals.
The invention will now be further described with reference to the following examples, which are in no way intended to limit the scope of the invention:
The i-kon blasting system (Orica Limited) provides millisecond controlled initiation timing. The field trials of the system and methods of the present invention involved adaptation of the i-kon system, at least in part, by the integration of the Central Blasting System™ (CBS). The i-kon CBS was tested using various methods in various stages including:
The above-mentioned tests were used to refine the system, and make desirable improvements. The tests determined that modifications were required to antennae, leaky feeder lines, leaky feeder amplifiers, and radio modems to establish proper communication between system components. In addition, signal strength indicators and battery powers indicators were required on the blasting machine.
Functional field testing was conducted using a total of 26 live and 304 dummy detonators, arranged into several ‘Loggers’. All 330 detonators were programmed and fired over the full system specifications (260 Ohm harness wire per logger, and 130 Ohm for the firing cables).
The following preparations were used at the blast site:
After the circuits were tested for their integrity, the i-kon blasting machine was connected to the Loggers in parallel via the blasting cable.
Next, the authorization key was ‘initialized’ by inducing the blasting machine to transfer the serial number of the blasting machine and a unique randomly generated access code to an authorization key (also known as a Smart Dongle). The authorization key was removed from the blasting machine and transferred to the central command station (within the research and development office). The blasting machine was now in standby mode, awaiting activation by the appropriate radio signals. Antennas and a radio modem were used to transmit radio signals from the central command station. The CBS software was initiated and the radio modem switched on.
After confirming radio contact between the central command station and the blasting machine, the data from the authorization key was transferred to the central command station. In addition, a master key (master dongle) comprising the detonator firing codes and firing sequence was also associated with the central command station, and the firing information transferred appropriately.
With the central command station primed with the relevant data from the authorization key and the master key, the blasting sequence was started. All 330 detonators were programmed and initiated without errors.
During the firing sequence the blasting machine monitored some (artificial) vibrations. The vibration data were transmitted to the central blasting location to provide verification of successful firing. The blasting machine was then shut down. The CBS software automatically generated a blast report, which included the following extract (Table 1):
While the invention has been described with reference to particular preferred embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon a reading and understanding of the foregoing that blasting systems and methods of blasting other than the specific embodiments illustrated are attainable, which nonetheless lie within the spirit and scope of the present invention. It is intended to include all such systems and methods, and equivalents thereof within the scope of the appended claims.
This application claims the priority right of our co-pending provisional application Ser. No. 60/406,957 filed Aug. 30, 2002.
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| 60406957 | Aug 2002 | US |
