Wireless detonator assembly, and methods of blasting

摘要

Wireless detonators, and corresponding wireless detonator systems present opportunities for blasting arrangements that avoid the need for physical wire connections between the blasting components. The present application discloses a wireless detonator assembly, a corresponding blasting apparatus, and a method of use thereof. The wireless detonator assembly comprises a charge storage device that is capable of storing charge for discharge into a firing circuit upon receipt of an appropriate wireless command signal to FIRE, from an associated blasting machine. In preferred embodiments, the charge storage device remains or becomes charged, at least for a specific time period, if the wireless detonator assembly receives a suitable "keep alive" command signal from an associated blasting machine-otherwise the charge storage device discharges with little or no effect upon the firing circuit, such that the wireless detonator assembly retain or adopts a safe mode.