Wireless electronic booster, and methods of blasting
AssigneeOrica Explosives Technology Pty Ltd
InventorsRonald F. Stewart, David Geoffrey Anderson, Michael J. McCann
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Abstract
Disclosed herein are boosters that include components sufficient for wireless communications with an associated blasting machine. In selected aspects, there are disclosed wireless electronic boosters that are self-contained and robust. Such boosters are especially suited for underground mining operations, optionally employing automated placement of boosters at a blast site.
Claims27
An electronic booster for use in connection with a blasting machine, said blasting machine controlling said electronic booster via at least one wireless command signal, the electronic booster comprising:
- a detonator comprising a firing circuit and a base charge;
- an explosive charge in operative association with said detonator, such that actuation of said base charge via said firing circuit causes actuation of said explosive charge;
- a transceiver for receiving and processing said at least one wireless command signal from said blasting machine, said transceiver in signal communication with said firing circuit such that upon receipt of a command signal to FIRE said firing circuit causes actuation of said base charge and actuation of said explosive charge.
An antenna for receiving at least one wireless command signal from an associated blasting machine, the antenna having a configuration suitable to receive said at least one wireless command signal from any direction, the antenna including a cylindrical or tube-like core member, about which are wound wires.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.