EP3394559B1 - Peripheral power supply module for electronic detonator - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a peripheral power supply module for an electronic detonator.

It also relates to a wireless detonation system and a pyrotechnic initiation system implementing such a peripheral power supply module, as well as to a method for activating a wireless detonation system.

The present invention is generally applicable in the field of pyrotechnic initiation, in any sector where a network of one or more electronic detonators must traditionally be implemented. Typical examples of use relate to the exploitation of mines, quarries, seismic exploration, or even the building and public works sector.

In practice, the electronic detonators are respectively placed in boreholes previously dug and loaded with an explosive material. The firing of electronic detonators is carried out according to a predetermined sequence.

To achieve this result, a firing delay is associated individually with each electronic detonator, and a common firing order is sent to all the electronic detonators by a remote control console. This firing order makes it possible to synchronize the counting of the firing delay for all the electronic detonators. From the reception of the firing order, the electronic detonators independently manage the counting of the specific delay associated with them as well as their own firing.

Traditionally, setting up a network of electronic detonators requires a step of wiring all the electronic detonators in the network to the remote control console.

This wiring allows on the one hand to exchange information, commands and / or messages between the remote control console and the electronic detonators, in particular for transmitting the firing order. This means of communication is also commonly used to exchange other types of information, for example to perform network diagnostic tasks to detect possible anomalies before firing.

The wiring also allows the remote control console to provide the energy necessary for the operation and firing of all electronic detonators. For security reasons, current electronic detonators do not in fact include a permanent energy source. This is provided by the remote control console and is stored locally in electronic detonators in dedicated storage means (typically in one or more capacities) for their ignition.

However, this wiring step is difficult to implement to ensure the operation of the electronic detonator network in complete safety.

In addition, in order to guarantee the safety of personnel and equipment, it is necessary to eliminate any risk of unexpected departure of electronic detonators, as well as any risk of non-ignition after transmission of the firing order by the remote control console .

Solutions are also known in the state of the art, called “ wireless detonators ”, making it possible to dispense with the wiring between the electronic detonators and the remote control console and to reduce the risks of non-ignition. They use wireless communication means, while fulfilling the functions of communication with the remote control console and of supplying energy to the electronic detonator, usually managed by means of the cable network.

The document WO2006 / 096920 A1 thus describes an electronic detonator comprising an explosive primer, wireless communication and processing modules, making it possible to communicate with a remote control console, and an element for storing electrical energy. The electronic detonator furthermore comprises an on-board energy source, making it possible to supply the communication and processing modules and to supply energy to the energy storage element, and a firing circuit connected to the energy storage element. In one embodiment, only the explosive primer is placed at the bottom of a borehole, the onboard energy source, the wireless communication and processing modules and the energy storage element being placed in a box arranged on the ground surface to facilitate wireless communication with the remote control console.

However, the permanent presence of an on-board energy source in the housing, in cooperation with the energy storage element for igniting the detonator, inevitably presents a risk of accidental transfer of energy to the primer explosive, and therefore an unexpected departure of the electronic detonator.

On the other hand, the location on the surface in a housing of the energy storage element for igniting the explosive primer makes firing of the electronic detonator uncertain. Indeed, the firing of a neighboring detonator in the firing plane presents a risk of premature destruction of the case disposed on the surface. If the explosion of the neighboring detonator tears off the cable connecting the energy storage element to the explosive primer located at the bottom of the borehole, the firing of the explosive primer can no longer take place. The risk of non-firing of the electronic detonator after transmission of the firing order by the remote control console is further increased when a sequencing of the firing is considered and the neighboring detonator is programmed to explode before the detonator considered.

Furthermore, when only the explosive primer is placed at the bottom of a borehole and connected by a cable to the box of the electronic detonator, the diagnosis of the proper functioning of the buried elements is uncertain, if not impossible, reducing the reliability of the system. It is indeed difficult to verify whether the buried cable is still intact after filling the borehole with stuffing material, and whether the transfer of energy will allow the ignition of the explosive primer.

Finally, in the electronic detonator described in the document WO2006 / 096920 A1 , the wireless communication and processing modules are permanently powered by the on-board power source. This type of assembly is not suitable for the actual implementation of electronic detonators, for which the time between manufacture and use can be several months.

Furthermore, the power supply to the wireless communication module presents a risk of communication with the remote control console and the reception of orders or messages even when the explosive primer of the electronic detonator is not positioned in the borehole, presenting a risk of untimely and premature triggering of the electronic detonator.

The present invention aims to solve all or part of the aforementioned drawbacks and to provide an electronic detonator with wireless communication means, reliable and secure operation.

To this end, the present invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a peripheral power supply module for an electronic detonator, comprising an on-board energy source, wireless communication means with a remote control console, processing means. and wired communication means with at least one electronic detonator.

According to the invention, means forming a switch are mounted between said on-board energy source on the one hand, and said wireless communication means, said processing means and said wired communication means on the other hand, said peripheral module d power supply further comprising connection detection means of at least one electronic detonator, said connection detection means being adapted to control said switch means for supplying said processing means with said on-board energy source when at least an electronic detonator is connected to said peripheral power module, so that said peripheral power module is in an activated mode.

Thus, the on-board energy source is isolated by means forming a switch, wireless communication means, processing means and wired communication means of the peripheral power supply module, and connection detection means make it possible to supply power. the means of processing by the on-board energy source, when an electronic detonator is connected.

This structure makes it possible to preserve the lifespan of the on-board energy source before the actual use of the peripheral power supply module of an electronic detonator.

Furthermore, the on-board power source of the peripheral power module is dissociated from the electronic detonator as long as the latter is not connected to the peripheral power module, ensuring adequate safety during the transport and handling of the electronic detonators. .

The peripheral power module includes the following features and embodiments, which can be taken in combination or in isolation.

According to one embodiment, said processing means in said activated mode of said peripheral power supply module control the supply of said wireless communication means and of said wired communication means by said onboard energy source.

Alternatively, said connection detection means are adapted to control said switch means for simultaneously supplying said processing means, said wireless communication means and said wired communication means when at least one electronic detonator is connected to said peripheral module. food.

Advantageously, said processing means in said activated mode of said peripheral power module communicate with said at least one electronic detonator once said wired communication means supplied by the on-board energy source.

In one embodiment, the peripheral power module comprises means for connecting at least one electronic detonator, the connection detection means detecting a change in impedance across said connection means.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the connection detection means comprise a current measurement device electrically connected to one of said terminals of the connection means, and a current comparator adapted to compare the value of the current measured by said measurement device current to a predefined value.

In practice, said predefined value is substantially equal to half of the current consumed by an electronic detonator.

In one embodiment, said processing means are suitable for controlling a switch mounted between said on-board energy source and means for connecting at least one electronic detonator to the peripheral power supply module.

In practice, said wireless communication means are adapted to receive messages from said remote control console and to send messages to said remote control console, said received messages being addressed to said processing means, and optionally to said at least one electronic detonator by the wired communication means.

Advantageously, said processing means are adapted to deactivate the supply of said wireless communication means and said wired communication means by said on-board energy source upon receipt of a standby order issued by said remote control console. and / or in the absence of reception of messages from the remote control console for a predetermined period of time.

According to one embodiment, the supply of said wireless communication means, said processing means and said wired communication means by said on-board energy source is deactivated when no electronic detonator is connected to said peripheral power supply module .

In practice, said on-board energy source is a current-limited energy source.

According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a wireless detonation system comprising a peripheral power module according to the invention and at least one electronic detonator, said at least one electronic detonator being connected to said peripheral power module by a connector mounted at the end of a power cable of said at least one electronic detonator.

In practice, the electronic detonator comprises, in a case, an explosive primer, wired communication means, processing means, a first energy storage element dedicated to supplying said wired communication means and said processing means , and a second energy storage element dedicated to igniting said explosive primer, said wired communication means and said first and second energy storage elements being connected to said power cable of said electronic detonator.

According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a pyrotechnic initiation system comprising a remote control console comprising wireless communication means and one or more wireless detonation systems according to the invention.

According to one embodiment, said remote control console is connected by a network of cables to a first subset of electronic detonators and in wireless communication with a second subset of electronic detonators connected to peripheral power modules .

• détection du raccordement d'au moins un détonateur électronique audit module périphérique d'alimentation ; et
• activation dudit module périphérique d'alimentation, lesdits moyens de traitement étant alimentés par ladite source d'énergie embarquée.

According to a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a method for activating a wireless detonation system according to the invention, comprising the following successive steps:

• detection of the connection of at least one electronic detonator to said peripheral power module; and
• activation of said peripheral power module, said processing means being supplied by said on-board energy source.

In practice, the activation method further comprises a step of controlling the supply of said wireless communication means and / or said wired communication means by said onboard energy source.

Advantageously, the activation method further comprises a step of communicating said processing means with said at least one electronic detonator.

In practice, during the communication step, an identifier of said at least one electronic detonator is read by said processing means and / or an operating diagnosis of said at least one electronic detonator and / or of said power cable is established by said processing means.

The wireless detonation system, the pyrotechnic initiation system and the activation method have characteristics and advantages similar to those described above in relation to the peripheral power module.

Other features and advantages of the invention will appear in the description below.

• la figure 1 est un schéma bloc illustrant un système de détonation sans fil selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
• la figure 2 est un schéma bloc illustrant un système de détonation sans fil selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
• les figures 3 à 7 sont des schémas bloc illustrant différents exemples de réalisation de moyens de détection de raccordement d'un détonateur électronique mis en œuvre dans un module périphérique d'alimentation d'un système de détonation sans fil ; et
• la figure 8 est un schéma bloc illustrant un système d'initiation pyrotechnique selon un exemple de réalisation de mise en œuvre de l'invention.

In the appended drawings, given by way of nonlimiting examples:

• the figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a wireless detonation system according to a first embodiment of the invention;
• the figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a wireless detonation system according to a second embodiment of the invention;
• the figures 3 to 7 are block diagrams illustrating various exemplary embodiments of connection detection means of an electronic detonator implemented in a peripheral power supply module of a wireless detonation system; and
• the figure 8 is a block diagram illustrating a pyrotechnic initiation system according to an exemplary embodiment of implementation of the invention.

We will first describe with reference to figures 1 and 2 a wireless detonation system according to two embodiments of the invention.

The common elements of figures 1 and 2 have the same reference numerals and are described simultaneously below.

In principle, a wireless detonation system 100 comprises at least one electronic detonator 110 connected to a peripheral power supply module 150.

In the examples of figures 1 and 2 , a single electronic detonator 110 is illustrated.

However, as will be described later, several similar electronic detonators 110 can be connected to the same power supply peripheral module 150.

The electronic detonator 110 is intended to be placed in a borehole, which is then loaded with explosive material.

In general, the electronic detonator 110 comprises a housing 111 shown diagrammatically figures 1 and 2 by a contour adapted to contain the various functional elements of the electronic detonator 110.

The electronic detonator 110 comprises, in the housing 111, an explosive primer 112, wired communication means 113 and processing means 114.

For powering the electronic detonator 110, a power cable 115 allows the electronic detonator 110 to be connected to the peripheral power module 150.

For example, the power cable 115 is a two-wire cable connected to the housing 110. The power cable 115 has a length greater than the depth of the borehole considered.

A connector 116 mounted at the end of the power cable 115 is provided for connecting the electronic detonator 110 as will be described later.

If the electronic detonator 110 must be connected after positioning the electronic detonator 110 in the borehole, the length of the supply cable 115 must be sufficient for the connector 116 to be available at the outlet of the borehole and thus allow its connection to peripheral power module 150.

Of course, the connection of the electronic detonator 110 to the peripheral power supply module 150 can be made before the positioning of the electronic detonator 110 at the bottom of the borehole, so that the connector 116 does not have to be accessible at the outlet of the borehole.

Furthermore, the embodiment described above is not limiting, the connector 116 which can be integrated into the electronic detonator 110, directly on the housing 111, or integrated into the peripheral power supply module 150, or else placed at any point of the cable. supply 115.

Thus, the power cable 115 can also be integral with the power supply peripheral module 150 or even be an independent element, which can be connected respectively to two integrated connectors, one to the power supply peripheral module 150, the other to the detonator. electronic 110.

The wired communication means 113 are preferably bidirectional. The modulation for a communication intended for the electronic detonator 110 is preferably a voltage modulation. The modulation used for a communication at the origin of the electronic detonator is preferably a current modulation, carried out starting from an impedance switching.

The electronic detonator 110 further comprises a first energy storage element 117 dedicated to supplying the wired communication means 113 and processing means 114 and a second energy storage element 118 dedicated to igniting the explosive primer 112.

The wired communication means 113 and the first and second energy storage elements 117, 118 are connected to the power cable 115 of the electronic detonator.

Furthermore, a discharge device 119 is provided between the second energy storage element 118 and the explosive primer 112.

The discharge device 119 forms a safety mechanism allowing the slow discharge of the second energy storage element 118 dedicated to firing in order to return to a safety state, unloaded, of the electronic detonator in the event of abandonment of 'a firing order.

The first energy storage element 117 dedicated to supplying the wired communication means 113 and the processing means 114 is charged with electric energy supplied by the power cable 115 of the electronic detonator 110.

By way of nonlimiting example, the first energy storage element 117 consists of a capacity.

The second energy storage element 118 dedicated to igniting the explosive primer 112 is preferably charged at a voltage lower than the voltage required for igniting the explosive primer 112 and adapted to restore the energy at a higher voltage, allowing the ignition of the explosive primer 112.

The second energy storage element 118 may consist for example of one or more capacitors and one or more stages of voltage rise.

An isolation mechanism, illustrated by a switch K ₁₀ , is mounted upstream of the second energy storage element 118 dedicated to firing.

The isolation mechanism K ₁₀ enables or disables the supply of electrical energy supplied by the power cable 115 to the second energy storage element 118.

Likewise, a firing mechanism, shown diagrammatically by a switch K ₁₁ , makes it possible to control the transfer of electrical energy from the second energy storage element 118 to the explosive primer 112 during firing. .

The isolation mechanism K ₁₀ and the firing mechanism K ₁₁ are controlled by the processing means 114 according to the orders received by the electronic detonator 110.

• d'analyser des messages reçus par les moyens de communication filaire 113,
• d'agir en fonction de la signification des messages reçus, et par exemple, d'exécuter l'une des actions suivantes,
• de réaliser un diagnostic des fonctionnalités internes du détonateur électronique 110,
• d'initier un envoi de message par le détonateur électronique 110,
• d'activer le stockage d'énergie pour la mise à feu,
• de contrôler le second élément de stockage d'énergie 118 pour la mise à feu,
• d'activer le dispositif de décharge 119,
• d'effectuer le décompte du retard de mise à feu,
• d'activer le transfert d'énergie entre le second élément de stockage d'énergie 118 et l'amorce explosive 112 à l'issue du décompte, via le mécanisme de mise à feu K₁₁, ...

The processing means 114 make it possible in particular to process the messages received, as well as to act as a function of the meaning of the messages. They may include a computer or a microprocessor associated with registers or memories. They allow in particular in a known manner:

• to analyze messages received by the wired communication means 113,
• act according to the meaning of the messages received, and for example, carry out one of the following actions,
• to carry out a diagnostic of the internal functionalities of the electronic detonator 110,
• to initiate a message sending by the electronic detonator 110,
• activate energy storage for ignition,
• to control the second energy storage element 118 for firing,
• activate the discharge device 119,
• to carry out the firing delay count,
• activate the transfer of energy between the second energy storage element 118 and the explosive primer 112 after the countdown, via the firing mechanism K ₁₁ , ...

In the wireless detonation system 100 illustrated in figures 1 and 2 , the electronic detonator 110 is connected to a peripheral power supply module 150 by the connector 116 mounted at the end of the power cable 115 of the electronic detonator 110.

Of course, the electronic detonator 110 could also be connected by the connector 116 to a network cable connected to a remote control console.

This alternative will be described in more detail below with reference to the figure 8 .

An embodiment of a peripheral power supply module 150 will be described below.

Preferably, the peripheral power supply module 150 comprises a housing, shown diagrammatically by the contour 151 in the figures 1 and 2 .

The housing is preferably robust and waterproof and integrates all of the functionalities of the peripheral power supply module 150 which will be described below.

The peripheral power supply module 150 comprises means for connecting one or more electronic detonators 110.

The connection means are provided to keep the tight and rigid character of the housing 151 of the peripheral power supply module 150 as much as possible.

By way of example, the connection means can be formed by a simple two-wire cable 152, of limited length, connected to the interior of the housing 151 of the peripheral power supply module and emerging from the housing 151 by a passage opening for cables.

The seal at the passage orifice can be achieved in a known manner by a cable gland.

The two-wire cable 152 thus allows a simple connection of one or more electronic detonators 110 thanks to the connectors 116 adapted to connect an electronic detonator 110 to a cable.

The peripheral power supply module 150 further comprises, in the housing 151, wireless communication means 153, preferably bidirectional, making it possible to receive and transmit messages and information.

Preferably, the wireless communication means 153 use radio waves, and allow communication with a remote control console which will be described later.

In order to improve the quality of the wireless communication, the peripheral power supply module 150 may include an external antenna 154 connected to the wireless communication means 153.

The external antenna 154 is preferably omnidirectional.

The peripheral power supply module 150 also comprises wired communication means 155, preferably bidirectional.

The wired communication means 155 are preferably compatible with the current modulation format implemented by the electronic detonators 110, in order to allow communication with the electronic detonators.

Depending on the type of modulation used (voltage or current), the electrical interconnection of the wired communication means 155 within the power supply peripheral module 150 can be adapted.

The peripheral power module 150 further comprises processing means 156, allowing the management of the operation of the peripheral power module 150 and its various functional elements.

In particular, the processing means 156 make it possible to process messages received by the wireless communication means 153 or the wired communication means 155.

The processing means 156 then command different actions and / or sending of messages depending on the meaning of the messages received.

In particular, the processing means 156, without limitation, make it possible to initiate the sending of a message by the wireless communication means 153 and / or by the wired communication means 155.

The processing means 156 are also adapted to activate a transfer of electrical energy to the electronic detonator or detonators 110 connected to the peripheral power supply module 150 as will be described in more detail with reference to figures 3 to 7 .

The peripheral power supply module 150 also comprises an on-board energy source 157.

The on-board energy source 157 is preferably limited in current.

The on-board energy source 157 is adapted in particular to supply electric current to the wireless communication means 153, the wired communication means 155 and the processing means 156.

It also makes it possible to transfer electrical energy to one or more electronic detonators 110 connected to the peripheral power supply module 150.

Furthermore, means forming a switch, shown diagrammatically in the figure 1 by the switch K ₀ , are mounted between the on-board energy source 157 on the one hand and the wireless communication means 153, the processing means 156 and the wired communication means 155 on the other hand.

The means forming a switch K ₀ are adapted to control the supply of electrical energy to the various functional elements of the peripheral power supply module 150.

In particular, thanks to the interruption, made possible by the means forming a switch K ₀ , of the supply by the on-board energy source 157 of the wireless communication means 153, of the processing means 156 and of the wired communication means 155 , the on-board energy source 157 can be preserved at its initial charge level in the peripheral power supply module 150 when the latter is stored and before its use on site.

Consequently, the peripheral power supply module 150 remains in an inactive state, with current consumption coming from the on-board energy source 157 negligible or zero before its use.

The peripheral power supply module 150 also comprises connection detection means 158 adapted to detect the connection of at least one electronic detonator 110.

In principle, the connection detection means 158 are adapted to detect the connection of an electronic detonator 110 to the connection means 152.

Different embodiments of the connection detection means 158 will be described below with reference to figures 3 to 7 .

Generally, the connection detection means 158 are suitable for controlling the switch means K ₀ to supply at least the processing means 156 by the on-board energy source 157, when at least one electronic detonator 110 is connected to the power supply peripheral module 150. The power supply peripheral module 150 is then in an activated mode.

In the first embodiment illustrated in figure 1 , the switch-forming means consist of a single switch K ₀ placed between the on-board energy source 157 and the wireless communication means 153, the processing means 156 and the wired communication means 155.

Thus, the connection detection means 158 are adapted to control the switch forming means K ₀ to simultaneously supply the processing means 156, the wireless communication means 153, and the wired communication means 155 when at least one electronic detonator 110 is connected to the peripheral power supply module 150.

Thus, in this embodiment, a single switch K ₀ controls the electrical supply of the processing means 156, the wireless communication means 153 and the wired communication means 155.

In a second embodiment as illustrated in figure 2 , the switch-forming means comprise several switches K ₀ , K ₁ , K ₂ mounted respectively between the on-board energy source 157 on the one hand, and the wireless communication means 153, the processing means 156 and the communication means wired 155 on the other hand.

In this embodiment, the connection detection means 158 are adapted to control a first switch K ₀ to supply the processing means 156 by the on-board energy source 157.

Furthermore, the processing means 156 in the activated mode of the peripheral power supply module 150 control the supply of the wireless communication means 153 and of the wired communication means 155 by the onboard energy source 157.

In the embodiment illustrated in figure 2 , the processing means 156 are thus adapted to control the second and third switches K ₁ , K ₂ for supplying electrical energy to the wireless communication means 153 and the wired communication means 155.

The second embodiment illustrated in figure 2 thus makes it possible, when connecting an electronic detonator 110, to supply initially only the processing means 156, the wired communication means 155 and the wireless communication means 153 being subsequently connected to the source of onboard energy 157.

Such an assembly as illustrated in figure 2 also allows the power supply peripheral module 150 to be put on standby after an electronic detonator 110 has been connected to the power supply peripheral module 150.

In particular, a first standby mode, hereinafter called superficial standby, makes it possible to preserve the on-board energy source 157 between the instant of connection of an electronic detonator 110 and the actual firing procedure, which can occur several hours or even days later.

In this superficial standby mode, the power supply peripheral module 150 is adapted, autonomously, to exit the superficial standby mode, without the intervention of an operator.

Superficial standby can be achieved by cutting off the power supply to a maximum of functionality, in order to minimize the current consumed by the peripheral power supply module 150.

Thus, the processing means 156 can cut off the power supply to the wireless communication means 153 and to the wired communication means 155 by the on-board energy source 157 by acting on the second and third switches K ₁ , K ₂ .

Furthermore, functionalities integrated into the processing means 156 can also be put on standby, according to a conventional method in a microprocessor.

In particular, only a clock and increment mechanism can remain activated in the microprocessor in order to have the possibility of interrupting the superficial standby mode at the expiration of a predetermined period, the functions of calculator, of reception , transmission and processing of messages integrated into the processing means 156 being suspended.

To interrupt the superficial standby mode, the peripheral power supply module 150 temporarily controls, via the processing means 156, the supply of the wireless communication means 153, by acting on the second switch K ₁ , in order to receive a possible message sent by a remote control console, commanding the permanent exit from superficial standby mode.

Furthermore, in the superficial standby mode, the power supply to the electronic detonators 110 can also be deactivated by means of a device integrated into the connection detection means 158 which will be described in detail below, with particular reference to figures 4 and 6 .

It may also be desirable to allow the peripheral power supply module 150 to return to a second standby mode, called deep standby, in which the onboard energy source 157 is completely isolated.

This deep standby mode enables high security of the wireless detonation system 100, for example in the event of a shot being abandoned.

As illustrated in figure 2 , the processing means 156 are adapted to control the connection detection means 158 to act on the means forming a switch K ₀ , K ₁ , K ₂ , including on the first switch K ₀ to cut the supply to the processing means 156 by the on-board energy source 157.

The on-board energy source 157 is then preserved for the duration of the deep standby mode.

For putting in a superficial or deep standby state, the processing means 156 are adapted in particular to deactivate the supply of the wireless communication means 153 and the wired communication means 155 by the on-board energy source 157 to reception of a standby order issued by the remote control console.

Sleep can also be initiated if there is no message received from the remote control console for a predetermined period of time.

The absence of message reception thus translates a prolonged inactivity of a remote control console or even a prolonged period of non-solicitation on the part of the remote control console.

Furthermore, the power supply to the wireless communication means 153, to the processing means 156 and to the wired communication means 155 by the on-board energy source 157 is deactivated when no electronic detonator 110 is connected to the peripheral module 150.

Deep standby is thus particularly controlled in the event of disconnection, accidental or voluntary, of an electronic detonator 110.

The disconnection of an electronic detonator 110 can be detected by the processing means 156, for example when no electronic detonator 110 responds to messages initiated by the processing means 156 intended for an electronic detonator 110.

Alternatively, the deep standby following the disconnection of an electronic detonator 110 can be carried out without the intervention of the processing means 156, as soon as the connection detection means 158 are configured, as described later, to control the opening a first switch K ₀ when no electronic detonator 110 is connected to the peripheral power supply module 150.

In the deep standby mode, the reactivation of the peripheral power supply module 150, and in particular the switching on of the processing means 156, requires physical action by an operator. The latter must connect an electronic detonator 110, or possibly disconnect, then reconnect an electronic detonator 110 when the deep sleep mode has been ordered by an explicit deep sleep order sent by the remote control console to the peripheral power module 150.

It will be noted that the passage into a deep standby mode is generally reserved for a permanent abandonment of shooting or, at least, for an extended suspension of shooting.

In fact, the saving in electrical energy achieved and the level of safety reached during the deep standby must be compared with the time necessary then to reconnect each electronic detonator 110 to a peripheral power supply module 150 to enable activation of the peripheral power supply module 150 and its exit from deep sleep mode.

We will now describe with reference to figures 3 to 7 different embodiments of the connection detection means 158 of the power supply peripheral module 150.

In principle, the connection detection means 158 are adapted to detect a change of impedance across the connection means, here implemented by a two-wire cable 152, when an electronic detonator is connected by a connector 116 to the cable two-wire 152.

In a first embodiment example as illustrated in figure 3 , the connection detection of an electronic detonator 110 is implemented on the basis of a current measurement.

To this end, the connection detection means 158 comprise a current measurement device A electrically connected to one of the terminals of the connection means 152.

As well illustrated in the figure 3 , the current measuring device A is here mounted in series on one of the two conductors of the two-wire cable 152.

A current comparator C is adapted to compare the value of the current measured by the current measuring device A with a predetermined value I _REF .

In fact, the value of the measured current is modified when an electronic detonator 110 is connected.

Such an electronic detonator 110 is equivalent to connecting to the connection means 152 an equivalent impedance modifying the electrical circuit, and thus the value of the current flowing in the current measurement device A.

Thus, the value of the measured current goes from a zero value to a value corresponding substantially to the current consumption by the electronic detonator 110 increased by possible leakage currents on the two-wire cable 152 and the power cable 115.

The comparator C compares the value of the measured current with a predefined value I _REF which can be substantially equal to half of the current consumed by an electronic detonator 110.

The peripheral power supply module 150 is thus configured using a predefined value I _REF , determined as a function of the electronic detonators 110 intended to be used with the peripheral power supply module 150.

The output of the current comparator C controls the means forming a switch and, in this embodiment, the switch K ₀ enabling the processing means 156 to be supplied by the on-board energy source 157.

Thus, when the value of the current measured by the current measuring device A exceeds the predefined value I _REF , the connection detection means 158 control the switch K ₀ to supply the processing means 156 as described previously with reference to the figure 1 or 2 .

A filtering system can optionally be integrated so as to prevent the wired communication between the peripheral power supply module 150 and the detonator 110, of the voltage or current modulation type, from disturbing the connection detection means 158, leading to deactivation. of the peripheral power supply module 150 by opening the switch K ₀

In the embodiment illustrated in figure 3 , when the electronic detonator 110 is disconnected, the value of the current measured by the current measuring device A drops so that the comparator C is adapted to control the switch K ₀ to cut the power supply to the processing means 156 by the on-board energy source 157.

Thus, the connection detection means 158 allow automatic deep return to standby when an electronic detonator 110 is disconnected.

However, in this embodiment, it is not possible to control a shallow or deep standby mode from a message received from the remote console.

The figure 4 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the connection detection means 158, allowing in particular a standby from an order received by the power supply peripheral module 150.

To this end, in addition to the elements already mentioned above, the connection detection means 158 comprise a memory element, shown diagrammatically by a flip-flop RS at the figure 4 .

The RS flip-flop is adapted to memorize the change of state linked to the connection of an electronic detonator 110.

The content of the flip-flop RS can be modified by the processing means 156, via a reset input R (input RESET), causing an opening of the first switch K ₀ to cut the electrical supply to the processing means 156 and pass so in deep sleep mode.

On the other hand, the presence of the RS flip-flop prevents the automatic deep sleep mode of the power supply peripheral module 150 when the electronic detonator 110 is disconnected.

In order to preserve the possibility of automatically placing the peripheral power supply module 150 on standby when an electronic detonator 110 is disconnected, the current measurement device A is connected to the processing means 156.

In such a case, the processing means 156 are adapted to analyze the current consumption on the connector of the connection means 152 and to order the passage into standby mode, by controlling the flip-flop RS as indicated above, when the value of the measured current by the falling current measuring device.

In an alternative embodiment, it would also be possible to use an inverted output of comparator C and to wire this output signal to the RESET input of the flip-flop RS by means of an OR gate, so as to use either the signal from the inverted output of comparator C, ie a signal from processing means 156 for changing the state of the flip-flop RS.

Finally, a switch K ₂₀ is mounted between the on-board energy source 157 and the connection means 152 of an electronic detonator 110.

The processing means 156 are adapted to control the switch K ₂₀ and thus the supply of the electronic detonator 110 by the on-board energy source 157.

In particular, the processing means 156 are adapted to authorize the electrical supply of the electronic detonator 110, and the charging of the first and second energy storage elements 117, 118.

Conversely, the processing means 156 are adapted to control the switch K ₂₀ to interrupt the electrical supply to the electronic detonator 110, in order to switch the peripheral power supply module 150 into a superficial or deep standby mode.

Thus, a resistor R ₂₀ of high impedance is mounted in parallel with the switch K _{20 in} order to limit the electric current to the electronic detonator 110 as much as possible when the switch K ₂₀ is open, and nevertheless allow connection detection. an electronic detonator 110.

We will now describe with reference to figures 5 and 6 other exemplary embodiments of the connection detection means 158 implementing a voltage measurement device.

The on-board energy source 157 initially supplies a positive DC voltage.

The voltage measured at point V, on one of the connectors of the two-wire cable 152, corresponds to a supply voltage when no electronic detonator is connected to the peripheral power supply module 150.

A high impedance resistor R ₂₀ (" pull-up " resistor) is mounted on one of the connectors of the two-wire cable 152.

The value of the high impedance resistance R ₂₀ is for example ten times greater than the average impedance presented by an electronic detonator 110.

Consequently, when an electronic detonator 110 is connected to the connection means 152, the voltage measured at point V decreases significantly.

A comparator C allows, as before, to compare the voltage at point V with a reference voltage V _REF .

When the voltage V is less than the voltage V _REF , the comparator acts on the switch K ₀ to control the supply of the processing means 156 by the on-board energy source 157.

Once the processing means 156 are powered by the onboard energy source 157, the processing means 156 are adapted to control a switch K ₂₀ mounted between the onboard energy source 157 and the connection means 152 of an electronic detonator 110.

The switch K ₂₀ is mounted in parallel with the high impedance resistor R ₂₀ and thus makes it possible to short-circuit this resistor to supply sufficient electric current on the power cable 115 allowing the electronic detonator 110 to be properly supplied.

As before, a memory element, such as a flip-flop RS, is implemented between the comparator C and the switch K ₀ , the flip-flop RS being used to memorize the change of state of the switch K ₀ .

It will be noted that without the presence of the memory element constituted by the flip-flop RS, the closing of the switch K ₂₀ , causing an increase in the voltage at the point V would lead to a reopening of the switch K ₀ controlling the supply of the processing means 156 by the on-board energy source 157 and thus a deactivation of the peripheral supply module 150 by a deep standby.

The switch K ₂₀ , mounted in parallel with the high impedance resistance R ₂₀ and controlled by the processing means 156, allows a superficial standby of the power supply peripheral module 150.

However, the exemplary embodiment illustrated in figure 5 does not allow the peripheral power supply module to be put into deep standby mode, in particular when no electronic detonator 110 is connected to the peripheral power module 150.

To enable this deep sleep mode, as shown in the figure 6 , a command from the processing means 156 makes it possible to act on the memory element.

As previously described with reference to the figure 4 , the processing means 156 are connected to the input R (RESET) of the flip-flop RS in order to reset this memory element and allow the opening of the first switch K ₀ and the deactivation of the processing means 156.

Finally, we illustrated in figure 7 another embodiment of the connection detection means 158 in which the processing means 156 are implemented within a microcontroller or microprocessor 159.

The microprocessor 159 integrates several functions of the processing means 156 described above but also replaces various hardware elements.

The microprocessor 159 further allows, in the embodiment illustrated in the figure 7 , to manage the deep and surface sleep modes of the peripheral power supply module 150.

Whatever the change in impedance detected across the connection means 152, the signal from a current or voltage measurement (here voltage V at the figure 7 ) can be directly connected to an input port of microprocessor 159, configured in interrupt mode.

In this embodiment operating from a voltage drop detected during the connection of an electronic detonator 110, the interruption must be triggered on a falling edge so that the detection of the connection of an electronic module does not is not disturbed by the nominal operation of the assembly and that the system can also reactivate upon disconnection and then reconnection of an electronic detonator 110.

The processing means 156 being implemented within a microprocessor, the passage into superficial standby mode corresponds to a passage of the microprocessor into standby mode, in which only clock means 160 are kept active.

In this embodiment, the microprocessor makes it possible to carry out the functionalities of the processing means 156 as described above, but also of the first switch K ₀ , making it possible to control the supply of the processing means 156 by the on-board energy source 157, the comparator C as well as the memory element constituted by the flip-flop RS.

Whatever the embodiment of the connection detection means 158, the processing means 156 are supplied as soon as at least one electronic detonator 110 is connected to the peripheral power supply module 150. As will be described later with reference to a method for activating a wireless detonation system, the processing means 156 are adapted, in the activated mode of the peripheral power supply module, to communicate with the electronic detonator 110.

We will now describe with reference to the figure 8 a pyrotechnic initiation system adapted to implement a wireless detonation system 100 as described above.

A pyrotechnic initiation system comprises a fire control console 200 intended to form a remote control console for the electronic detonators 110.

The remote control console 200 generally has its own power supply (typically a battery) and a means of wireless communication, preferably two-way, shown diagrammatically on the figure 8 by an antenna 201.

The antenna 201 may for example be omnidirectional.

Alternatively, the antenna 201 can be directive, making it possible to improve the performance of wireless communication towards the electronic detonators of a firing plan, and thus limit the impact of disturbances. In this case, the antenna 201 of the remote control console 200 must point towards the firing plane.

The wireless communication means 201 are adapted to communicate with the wireless communication means 153 of the peripheral power supply modules 150 described above.

Conventionally, the remote control console 200 includes all the hardware and software resources necessary for control all the stages of firing a network of electronic detonators.

Such a remote control console 200 is known and need not be described in detail here.

The remote control console 200 can communicate, by wireless communication means 201, with several peripheral power supply modules 150 each connected to one or more electronic detonators 110.

We have illustrated in figure 8 two peripheral power supply modules 150A and 150B adapted to communicate with the remote control console 200.

Thus, the wireless communication means 153 of each peripheral power supply module 150A, 150B are adapted to receive messages from the remote control console 200 and to send messages to the remote control console 200.

The messages received by the wireless communication means 153 of the peripheral power supply modules 150A, 150B are addressed to the processing means 156, and optionally to one or more electronic detonators 110 by the wired communication means 155.

As illustrated by way of example at figure 8 , a first peripheral power supply module 150A is associated with two electronic detonators 110A ₁ , 110A ₂ .

Thus, two electronic detonators 110A ₁ , 110A ₂ are connected to the same peripheral power supply module 150A.

Of course, the number of electronic detonators 110 connected to the same peripheral power supply module 150 can be variable, the connection detection means 158 being adapted to detect the connection of at least one electronic detonator 110 to the connection means 152.

As illustrated in figure 8 , the second peripheral power supply module 150B is connected to a single electronic detonator 110B.

Furthermore, and without limitation, the pyrotechnic initiation system illustrated in figure 8 is also suitable for implementing a wired communication system with electronic detonators.

To this end, the remote control console 200 is connected by a network of cables 202 to electronic detonators 110C, 110D.

The latter are connected directly to the network of cables 202, and are not connected to a peripheral power supply module 150.

Thus, the embodiment illustrated in the figure 8 implements mixed means of communication: the remote control console 200 is connected by the network of cables 202 to a first subset of electronic detonators 110C, 110D and in wireless communication with a second subset of electronic detonators 110A ₁ , 110A ₂ , 110B connected to peripheral power supply modules 150A, 150B.

Such a pyrotechnic initiation system offers great flexibility in the deployment of a network of electronic detonators 110. The remote control console 200 must, of course, send synchronized fire orders via the wireless communication means and the wired communication means to ensure the simultaneous reception of a firing message by the electronic detonators 110 connected to the remote control console 200 by different communication means.

Synchronization must also take into account the processing latency inherent in each means of communication, wired or wireless.

It will be noted that such a pyrotechnic initiation system makes it possible to carry out multiple shots (in English terminology “ multi-blast ”) on several areas of shots distant from each other, using a single console. remote control 200.

Thus, the areas closest to the remote control console 200 can be wired by a network of cables 202, the other firing areas, which are more distant, can be connected by wireless communication means as described above.

Furthermore, it is possible, on a case-by-case basis, for each electronic detonator 110, to decide to connect it to the cable network 202 or to connect it to a peripheral power supply module 150 having wireless communication means 153 for communicating with the remote control console 200.

Thus, after introduction of an electronic detonator 110 into a borehole, the power cable 115 being positioned in the borehole and the connector 116 emerging from the borehole, it is possible to connect the electronic detonator 110 to a peripheral power supply module 150 or directly to the cable network 202 depending on the quality of the wired communication with the electronic detonator 110 placed in the borehole.

We can also assess the quality of communication with a subset of electronic detonators 110C, 110D connected by the cable network 202 to the remote control console 200.

In the event of a defective wired link, it is possible to disconnect one (or more) electronic detonator 110C, 110D and to connect it to a peripheral power supply module 150 to allow wireless communication with the remote control console 200 .

Thus, a pyrotechnic initiation system implementing a mixed network as described in figure 8 accelerates the establishment of a network of electronic detonators 110 and reduces the risk of non-operation.

Of course, the present invention is not limited to such a pyrotechnic initiation system but also applies to a pyrotechnic initiation system implementing a remote control console 200 associated only with wireless detonation systems 100 and not implementing wired communication with electronic detonators 110.

We will now describe a method of activating a wireless detonation system 100, as described above, in particular with reference to figures 1 and 2 .

The activation method firstly comprises a step of detecting the connection of at least one electronic detonator 110 to a peripheral power supply module 150.

As described above, the detection of such a connection causes the activation of the peripheral power supply module 150, the processing means 156 then being supplied by the on-board energy source 157.

As soon as the processing means 156 are supplied, the activation method comprises a step of communicating the processing means 156 with the electronic detonator 110.

The processing means 156 communicate with the electronic detonator 110 via the wired communication means 155, previously activated, or by the connection detection means 158 in the embodiment of the figure 1 , or by actuation of the second switch K ₂ by the processing means 156 in the illustrated embodiment of the figure 2 .

Thus, the processing means 156 in the activated mode of the power supply peripheral module 150 communicate with the electronic detonator or detonators 110 connected to the power supply peripheral module 150.

During this communication step, an identifier of the electronic detonator or detonators 110 can be read by the processing means 156.

The identifier communicated by the electronic detonator 110 can, in turn, be communicated by the peripheral power supply module 150 to an operator and / or transferred to a programming console.

The programming console can be physically connected to the peripheral power supply module 150, for example on the two-wire cable 152, or even be a wireless programming console with which the peripheral power supply module 150 can communicate using the communication means without thread 153.

Such a programming console is used in a known manner in a wired network to program an electronic detonator and for example assign it a delay for firing according to a predetermined firing plan.

Furthermore, an operating diagnosis of the electronic detonator 110 and / or of its power cable 115 can be established by the processing means 156.

Thus, the power supply peripheral module 150 can implement a certain number of pre-diagnoses with the electronic detonator 110 as soon as it is activated, even before the activation of the wireless communication means 153 and the exchange of messages or data. with the remote control console 200.

The peripheral power supply module 150 is suitable for exchanging information and messages with the electronic detonator 110 independently of the remote control console 200 and can know at any time the state of the electronic detonator (s) 110 which are connected to it.

Of course, when the wireless communication means 153 of the peripheral power supply module 150 are supplied by the on-board energy source 157, the processing means 156 are adapted to receive messages addressed by the remote control console 200 via the wireless communication network.

In particular, the remote control console 200 can send a command to the peripheral power supply module 150 to initiate an exchange of messages with the electronic detonator or detonators 110 connected.

In addition, the commands sent by the remote control console 200 relate to the firing orders as well as possibly the assignment of firing delays to each electronic detonator 110, or else a command to load the second element of energy storage 118 dedicated to igniting the electronic detonator 110.

Thus, the exchanges between the peripheral power supply module 150 and the electronic detonator 110 can be initiated either on the initiative of the peripheral power supply module 150 as soon as the processing means 156 and the wired communication means 155 are supplied by the on-board energy source 157, or on receipt of an order from the remote control console 200 as soon as the wireless communication means 153 are supplied by the on-board energy source 157.

The steps of connection, communication of the identifier of each electronic detonator 110 and of diagnosis of the operation of each wireless detonation system 100 can be carried out locally, without the intervention of the remote control console 200.

Wireless communication with the remote control console 200 can be established later, during the firing procedure of the electronic detonators 110.

In this case, it may take several hours or even several days before the firing procedure is triggered by the remote control console 200.

Thus, the deep or superficial standby described above for the peripheral power supply module 150 is particularly well suited to preserving the functionalities of the peripheral power supply module 150, and in particular the onboard energy source 157, pending the firing procedure.

Consequently, as long as personnel are present in the firing zone, and while awaiting the actual firing procedure, it is possible to limit the supply of the wireless detonation system 100 to what is strictly necessary.

The wireless detonation system 100 and the pyrotechnic initiation system described above offer numerous advantages.

They make it possible to minimize the risk of accidental initiation of an electronic detonator 110 throughout its lifetime, the risk of non-operation of the wireless detonation system 100 or even the risk of non-firing of the electronic detonator 110 .

Indeed, as long as the electronic detonators 110 are not connected to the peripheral power supply module 150, the risk of accidental initiation is minimized.

The risk of non-firing is also minimized when all the functions required for firing the electronic detonator 110 are integrated into the housing 111 of the electronic detonator 110 placed at the bottom of the borehole.

Thus, the explosion of a neighboring electronic detonator has no consequences on the operation of the electronic detonator 110. Indeed, after receipt of the firing order and loading of the second energy storage element 118, the operation of the electronic detonator 110 is independent, it can be fired even in the event of destruction or disconnection of the peripheral power supply module 150.

Furthermore, as explained in particular with reference to the figure 8 , the pyrotechnic initiation system offers great flexibility of implementation.

It will be noted that the peripheral power supply modules 150 are considered to be consumable material just as are the electronic detonators 110.

Thanks to the implementation of wireless communication, only the power cables 115 of the electronic detonators 110 are preserved and buried in the boreholes.

The power cables 115 being of limited length and not being interconnected with each other, the reliability of the communication and of the supply of electrical energy between the peripheral power module 150 and buried electronic detonators 110 is optimized, reducing the risk of the wireless detonation system 100 not working.

The use of a wireless communication mode thus makes it possible to eliminate the majority of the operational vagaries linked to the wired links, to increase the dimensions and the number of electronic detonators of a firing plan, to potentially increase the flow communication, to reduce the number of messages exchanged between the remote control console 200 and the peripheral power supply modules 150, and thus to reduce the duration of the firing procedure.

Claims (20)

1. Peripheral power module (150) for electronic detonator (110), comprising an on-board power source (157), means of wireless communication (153) with a remote control console (200), means of processing (156) and means of wired communication (155) with at least one electronic detonator (110), characterised in that means of forming a switch (K₀, K₁, K₂) are fitted between this on-board power source (157) on the one hand and these means of wireless communication (153), these means of processing (156) and these means of wired communication (155) on the other hand, this peripheral power module (150) also comprising means of detecting connection (158) of at least one electronic detonator (110), these means of detecting connection (158) being adapted to control these means of forming a switch (K₀) to supply these means of processing (156) by this on-board power source (157) when at least one electronic detonator (110) is connected to this peripheral power module (150), so that this peripheral power module (150) is in an activated mode.
2. Peripheral power module according to claim 1, characterised in that in this activated mode of this peripheral power module (150) these means of processing (156) control the supply of these means of wireless communication (153) and these means of wired communication (155) by this on-board power source (157).
3. Peripheral power module according to claim 1, characterised in that these means of detecting connection (158) are adapted to control these means of forming a switch (K₀, K_1; K₂) to supply these means of processing (156), these means of wireless communication (153) and these means of wired communication (155) simultaneously, when at least one electronic detonator (110) is connected to this peripheral power module (150).
4. Peripheral power module according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that in this activated mode of this peripheral power module (150) these means of processing (156) communicate with this at least one electronic detonator (110) once these means of wired communication (155) are supplied by this on-board power source (157).
5. Peripheral power module according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that it comprises means of connection (116) of at least one electronic detonator (110), the means of detecting connection (158) detecting a change of impedance at the terminals of these means of connection (116).
6. Peripheral power module according to claim 5, characterised in that the means of detecting connection (158) comprise a current measuring device (A) electrically connected to one of these terminals of the means of connection (116), and a current comparator (C) adapted to compare the value of the current measured by this current measuring device (A) with a predefined value.
7. Peripheral power module according to claim 6, characterised in that this predefined value is more or less equal to half the current consumed by an electronic detonator (110).
8. Peripheral power module according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that these means of processing (156) are adapted to control a switch (K₂₀) fitted between this on-board power source (157) and means of connection (116) of at least one electronic detonator (110) to the peripheral power module (150).
9. Peripheral power module according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that these means of wireless communication (153) are adapted to receive messages from this remote control console (200) and to send messages intended for this remote control console (200), these messages received being sent to these means of processing (156) and optionally to this at least one electronic detonator (110) by the means of wired communication (155).
10. Peripheral power module according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that these means of processing (156) are adapted to deactivate the supply of these means of wireless communication (153) and these means of wired communication (155) by this on-board power source (157) on receipt of an order to put on standby sent by this remote control console (200) and/or in the absence of messages received from the remote control console (200) for a predetermined period of time.
11. Peripheral power module according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that the supply of these means of wireless communication (153), these means of processing (156) and these means of wired communication (155) by this on-board power source (157) is deactivated when no electronic detonator (110) is connected to this peripheral power module (150).
12. Peripheral power module according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that this on-board power source (157) is a limited current power source.
13. Wireless detonation system comprising a peripheral power module (150) according to one of claims 1 to 12 and at least one electronic detonator (110), this at least one electronic detonator (110) being connected to this peripheral power module (150) by a connecter (116) fitted to the end of a power cable (115) of this at least one electronic detonator (110).
14. Wireless detonation system according to claim 13, characterised in that in a box (111) the electronic detonator (110) comprises an explosive primer (112), means of wired communication (113), means of processing (114), a first power storage element (117), dedicated to supplying these means of wired communication (113) and these means of processing (114), and a second power storage element (118), dedicated to firing this explosive primer (112), these means of wired communication (113) and these first and second power storage elements (117, 118) being connected to this power cable (115) of this electronic detonator (110).
15. Pyrotechnic ignition system comprising a remote control console (200) comprising means of wireless communication (201) and one or several wireless detonation systems (100) according to one of claims 13 or 14.
16. Pyrotechnic ignition system according to claim 15, characterised in that this remote control console (200) is connected by a network of cables (202) to a first sub-assembly of electronic detonators (110C, 110D) and in wireless communication with a second sub-assembly of electronic detonators (110A₁, 110A₂, 110B) connected to peripheral power modules (150A, 150B).
17. Process for activation of a wireless detonation system (100) according to one of claims 13 or 14, characterised in that it comprises the following successive stages:

    - detecting the connection of at least one electronic detonator (110) to this peripheral power module (150); and

    - activating this peripheral power module (150), these means of processing (156) being supplied by this on-board power source (157).
18. Process for activation according to claim 17, characterised in that it also comprises a stage for controlling the supply of these means of wireless communication (153) and/or these means of wired communication (155) by this on-board power source (157) of this peripheral power module (150).
19. Process for activation according to one of claims 17 or 18, characterised in that it also comprises a stage for communication of these means of processing (156) of this peripheral power module (150) with this at least one electronic detonator (110).
20. Process for activation according to claim 19, characterised in that during the communication stage an identifier of this at least one electronic detonator (110) is read by these means of processing (156) of this peripheral power module (150) and/or operating diagnostics of this at least one electronic detonator (110) and/or this power cable (115) is established by these means of processing (156) of this peripheral power module (150)

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