DE112006003347T5 - Electronic ignition systems and method for igniting a device - Google Patents

Abstract

Electronic ignition system comprising:
a first ignition circuit;
a second ignition circuit; and
a detection system operatively associated with the first and second ignition circuits, the detection system detecting whether a device to be ignited is connected to one of the first and second ignition circuits, and the electronic ignition system incorporating one of the first and second ignition circuits with which the connected to igniting device, actuated.

Description

Contractual origin of the invention

The Government of the United States has under contract no. DE-AC07-051D14517 between the Department of Energy of the United States and Battelle Energy Alliance certain rights to the invention.

Related Application

These Application claims the priority of U.S. Patent Application S / N 11 / 297,001, which was filed on December 7, 2005 and in which present application is included.

Technical area

These The invention relates to the initiation of circuits in general and specific methods and apparatus for the time-delayed initiation of Explosive devices.

State of the art

It are numerous types of igniters and ignition systems have been developed and are used which are suitable to ignite a wide range of explosive devices or initiate, such as shockwave tubes and detonators. A typical ignition system is with an electrical energy storage device such as a Condenser equipped, which stores the electrical energy, that is needed to initiate or ignite the device. Many such igniters are also available with a delay or countdown timer equipped, which are set by a user so can she do that Initiation (ie the ignition) delays the device by a certain amount of time after the system is armed is. Instead, the ignition system can also operated by remote means be, like over a radio signal.

Unfortunately However, such ignition systems not free from problems. For example, many ignition systems start the electrical energy storage device (eg a capacitor) to charge immediately in response to a user input (e.g. When the user triggers the countdown). However, if the selected countdown time is relatively long, such a control scheme means that the electrical Energy storage device for a period of time which is considerably longer than the countdown time can be loaded. Consequently, the ignition system then long before the desired Timing able to initiate the device, leading to premature ignitions to lead can and can cause problems if the user decides to countdown cancel.

in addition comes that, although many ignition systems in carefully controlled environments are used, in which a user has enough time has, the right attitude and functioning of the ignition system ensure other environments, such as law enforcement environments and / or military Environments, often no careful and considered use of such Allow devices. Consequently, there is a constant need to ensure that such ignition systems easy to use and operate while the possibilities for misprogramming and / or undesirable Results are limited to a minimum when time is short.

Brief description of the invention

A embodiment an electronic ignition system according to the present Invention may be a first ignition circuit and a second ignition circuit exhibit. A detection system, the first and the second ignition circuit operationally assigned, detects whether a device to be ignited is connected to one of the first and second ignition circuit. The electronic ignition system actuated one of the first and second ignition circuits, with which to ignite Device is connected.

A other embodiment an electronic ignition system can be an electrical energy storage device and one with the electrical energy storage device operatively connected ignition circuit which can be operated, the electric energy storage device with one to ignite Electrically connect device. A discharge system that the electrical energy storage device operationally assigned is, can be operated, the electrical energy storage device to discharge electrically.

In addition, will an embodiment an electronic ignition system discloses an electrical energy storage device and a charging system for charging the electrical energy storage device having electrical energy. An ignition circuit that works with the electric Energy storage device is operatively connected, can operated to the electrical energy storage device with one to ignite Electrically connect device. A control system that with the operating system is connected to the charging system, actuates the Charging system in response to a user-initiated Command.

A method of igniting a device may include the steps of: operatively connecting the device to an electronic ignition system, the electronic ignition system having at least one electrical energy storage device, an ignition circuit, a control system, and a user interface operatively associated with the control system; Operating the user interface to enter a mode of operation; Setting a countdown time; and initiating a countdown, wherein the control system charges the electrical energy storage device during the countdown, the control system actuating the ignition circuit to fire the device when the countdown reaches zero.

One Method of operating an electronic ignition system may be the following Steps include: Triggering a countdown; Charging an electrical energy storage system, while the countdown was done becomes; Recognize if one to ignite Device with an ignition connection of the electronic ignition system connected is; and applying voltage to the ignition terminal to which the device to be ignited connected when the countdown reaches zero.

Brief description of the drawing

Illustrative and present preferred embodiments of the invention are in the attached Drawing shown, wherein:

1 a perspective view of an embodiment of an electronic ignition system according to the present invention;

2 a block diagram of an embodiment of the electronic ignition system is;

3 is an electrical schematic diagram of an embodiment of the electronic ignition system;

4 Fig. 10 is a flowchart of one embodiment of a method for igniting a device;

5 Figure 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an electronic ignition system showing the rotation of the power key from an "off" position to an "on"position; and

6 Figure 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an electronic ignition system showing the removal of the power-on key to arm the electronic ignition system.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiments

An embodiment of an electronic ignition system 10 is best in the 1 and 2 and can include a number of systems and components that come with a housing 12 operationally related. For example, in one embodiment, the housing 12 of the electronic ignition system 10 with a user input system 14 be equipped with one or more buttons 16 includes, and with a display system 18 that has a LED indicator 20 includes. The electronic ignition system 10 can also use one or more output ports or connectors 22 equipped, such as a shock tube connector 24 and a detonator connector 26 to allow a device to be ignited 28 (in 2 shown schematically), such as a shock tube 30 or a detonator 32 (which both also in 2 are shown schematically), with the electronic ignition system 10 is connected. The electronic ignition system 10 can also use a power-on key 34 be equipped to allow the electronic ignition system 10 operated in accordance with the teachings outlined here, sharpened and defused.

It's going to be primary now 2 Reference: The electronic ignition system 10 may also be an electrical energy storage device 36 include, such as a capacitor 38 , as well as a shock tube ignition circuit 40 and a detonator ignition circuit 42 , As will be described in more detail below, the ignition circuits 40 and 42 be operated so that they the electrical energy storage device 36 with the device to be ignited 28 (eg a shock tube 30 or a detonator 32 ) electrically connect. The electronic ignition system 10 can also have a detector system 44 for detecting whether a device to be ignited 28 with the ignition circuits 40 . 42 is connected. For example, in one embodiment, the detector system detects 44 whether a detonator 32 with the detonator ignition circuit 42 connected is. If this is the case, the detonator ignition circuit 42 ignited or activated. If this is not the case, the shock tube ignition circuit 40 ignited or activated.

The electronic ignition system 10 can also use a discharge system 46 for discharging the electrical energy storage device 36 be equipped, whereby the unwanted retention of electrical charge (ie energy) within the electronic ignition system 10 is prevented. A charging system 48 may also be provided to the electrical energy storage device 36 to load. The electronic ignition system 10 can also with a control system 50 for controlling the function and operation of the various devices and systems that make up the electronic ignition system 10 exists, be equipped.

It will be up now 4 Reference: The electronic ignition system 10 can be operated as follows to a device to be ignited 28 ( 2 ), which with the electronic ignition system 10 may be connected to ignite (ie initiate). Assuming that a device to be ignited 28 such as a shock tube 30 or a detonator 32 , with the shock tube connector 24 or with the detonator connector 26 operationally related, the electronic ignition system 10 be activated by the power-on key 34 is rotated from an "off" position to an "on" position, ie, generally in the direction of the arrow 52 , Please refer 5 , A user can then set a delay or countdown time by pressing different keys 16 of the user input system 14 activated. The selected delay or countdown time is then displayed on the display system 18 displayed. Instead, a standard countdown time can also be selected. The user can then initiate the countdown process by pressing the power-on key 34 from the case 12 that is, generally in the direction of the arrow 54 , Please refer 6 , The removal of the power-on key 34 causes the control system 50 the function and operation of the various systems and components of the electronic ignition system 10 takes over.

For example, in one embodiment, when the power-on key is removed, it activates 34 the control system 50 at the appropriate time during the countdown, the charging system 48 to charge the capacitor 38 to initiate. The control system 50 can also monitor the charging process to make sure that the capacitor 38 completely charged. In addition, the control system 50 that works in conjunction with the detector system 44 works, determine if a detonator 32 with the detonator connector 26 connected is. If a detonator 32 is detected, then activates the control system 50 the detonator ignition circuit 42 when the countdown reaches zero. If no detonator 32 is detected, activates the control system 50 the shock tube ignition circuit 40 when the countdown reaches zero. The control system 50 can also monitor the ignition process and on the display system 18 provide an indication of whether the ignition was successful and which device was fired.

As mentioned above, the electronic ignition system 10 also with a discharge system 46 be equipped. In one embodiment, the unloading system 46 be equipped with an active unloading system, which by the control system 50 can be actuated to the electrical energy storage device 36 in response to a command from the control system 50 to unload. Such a discharge may be desirable if, for example, a user wishes to abort the countdown process by using the power-on key 34 during the countdown process again. The unloading system 46 can also be equipped with a passive discharge system, which is the capacitor 38 unloads without a special command from the control system 50 necessary is. There are still further unloading and functions possible, which will be described in more detail below.

With the electronic ignition system 10 and the methods for igniting a device are associated with significant advantages and features. For example, the detector system 44 used to automatically detect if a device to be ignited 28 with the output connectors 22 of the electronic ignition system 10 and then ensure that the correct ignition circuit is actuated. The automatic selection and operation of the correct ignition circuit eliminates the need for the user to manually select the correct ignition circuit. In addition, the detector system closes 44 by the automatic ignition of the correct ignition circuit the possibility that the user has accidentally selected the wrong ignition circuit.

With the unloading system 46 There are other advantages associated with it. For example, the unloading system 46 used to power the electrical energy storage device 36 , z. B. the capacitor 38 to discharge and thereby undesirable energy storage in the electronic ignition system 10 to prevent. Preventing unwanted energy storage provides increased safety with regard to inadvertent and / or accidental ignition. In one embodiment, the unloading system 46 include active and passive elements to provide additional protection against unwanted energy storage.

The use of the control system 50 To control the function and operation of the various systems and components that make up the electronic ignition system 10 exists, offers even more benefits. For example, in one embodiment, the charging system becomes 48 through the control system 50 instead of being directly operated by a user. Such indirect control of the charging system 48 allows one improved control of the charging process and the provision of additional safety-related measures, such as the ability to delay the charging process during the countdown process as long as possible and to stop the charging process after it has started.

After the electronic ignition system 10 As well as briefly describing some of its more essential features and advantages, various embodiments of the electronic ignition system and method for igniting a device will now be described in detail. However, before proceeding with the description, it should be noted that the electronic ignition system and methods of the present invention are illustrated and described as they could be implemented to fire either a shock tube or a detonator. However, other types of devices currently known in the art, or which may be developed in the future, could be fired or initiated, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, after becoming familiar with the teachings set forth herein. Accordingly, the method and apparatus of the present invention should not be considered as limited to the particular components, environments, and functionalities illustrated and described herein.

It will now again on the 1 and 2 Reference is made; an embodiment of an electronic ignition system 10 can be a case 12 which is sized to accommodate the various systems and components that make up the electronic ignition system 10 consists. In one embodiment, the housing comprises 12 a generally rectangular design with a front panel 56 , which is sized to accommodate the user input system 14 as well as the display system 18 offers. A side plate 58 can be sized to fit the output connectors 22 of the electronic ignition system 10 as well as the power-on key 34 can record. Instead, the case could be 12 also have other shapes, and the various components could be arranged in other configurations, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, after becoming familiar with the teachings set forth herein. Accordingly, the present invention should not be considered limited to the specific configurations shown and described herein.

The housing 12 can be made of any material from a wide range of materials (e.g., metals, plastics, or combinations thereof) that are suitable for the intended application. For example, in one embodiment, the housing 12 made of ABS plastic.

The user input system 14 can be any of a wide range of systems and devices capable of enabling a user, the electronic ignition system 10 to provide the appropriate input signals, e.g. To set the countdown time, and any other desired user input. For example, in one embodiment, the user input system includes 14 a membrane keypad that has multiple buttons 16 having. At the in 1 The illustrated embodiment includes the user input system 14 a "SET" key, a ten-minute key "10", a one-minute key "1", a second-ten key "10" and a one-second key "1". The button's 16 can be used according to the descriptions given here to set the countdown time and various other functions and operations of the electronic ignition system 10 to control.

The display system 18 may be any of a wide variety of systems and devices capable of displaying the desired information. For example, in one embodiment, the display system 18 a 7-segment LED display 20 to display the selected countdown time and various error messages and codes, as described below. The display system 18 may also be provided with a separate LED "charge" to indicate the state of charge, as also described in more detail below.

As mentioned above, the housing can 12 of the electronic ignition system 10 also with one or more output ports or connectors 22 be equipped to allow a device to be ignited or initiated to the electronic ignition system 10 is connected. In the embodiments illustrated and described herein, the electronic ignition system 10 destined to either a shock tube 30 or a detonator 32 to ignite (which both in 2 are shown schematically). As a result, one of the output connectors comprises 22 a shock tube connector 24 while the other of the output connector 22 a detonator connector 26 includes. Please refer 1 , The shock tube connector 24 may be any of a wide variety of connectors for use with shock tubes that are known in the art and therefore will not be described further herein. Similarly, the detonator connector 26 any of a wide variety of ver. art which are suitable for making electrical contact with lead wires (not shown) leading to the detonator 32 belong. As a result, the detonator connector may 26 not be considered as limited to any particular type of connector. However, in one embodiment, for example, the detonator connector includes 26 an insulation displacement type connector intended to shift (ie, cut through) the insulation on the conductor wire when the conductor wire enters the connector 26 is introduced. In such insulation displacement connectors, there is no need to first remove the insulation from the lead wire.

The side plate 58 of the housing 12 can also with a power-on key ("arming key") 34 be equipped. The power-on key 34 is used to switch the electronic ignition system "on" and "off" and also to trigger the countdown after the desired countdown time has been selected. In the illustrated here and be described embodiment, the power-on key can be 34 in a clockwise direction (ie in the direction in 5 through the arrow 52 indicated) turn to the electronic ignition system 10 turn. The power-on key 34 can also from the electronic ignition system 10 be deducted (ie in the direction in 6 through the arrow 54 is specified) to trigger the countdown operation. The countdown process can be stopped by the power-on key 34 back in the case 12 is plugged in, as will be described in more detail below.

There are also other arrangements and operating configurations for the power-on key 34 possible. For example, in another embodiment, the power-on key may be configured to be pulled out to turn on the electronic ignition system and be pushed in to turn it off. The power-on key can arm the system when the key is pulled out by turning the key. If the key is turned and therefore the system is armed, it can not be pushed in and thereby turn off the system. There are still other arrangements and operating configurations for the power-on key 34 as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, after becoming familiar with the teachings set forth herein. Accordingly, the present invention should not be considered as limited to power-on keys having the particular arrangements and operating configurations illustrated and described herein.

It is now mainly on the 2 and 3 Reference: The electronic ignition system 10 may include a number of additional systems and components that are housed within the housing 12 can be provided. For example, the electronic ignition system 10 Furthermore, an electrical energy storage system 36 include, such as one or more capacitors 38 , The electrical energy storage system 36 is used to store an amount of electrical energy sufficient to ignite or initiate the desired device. For example, in one embodiment, where the electronic ignition system 10 configured for a "standard" shock tube 30 (eg, a shock tube with a diameter in the range of about 2 mm to about 3.8 mm) and a "standard" detonator 32 to ignite, the energy storage system 36 so that it can store up to about 4 joules of electrical energy. If a capacitor or capacitors 38 as the electrical energy storage system 36 A total capacity of approximately 200 microfarads (μF) at a voltage of approximately 200 volts provides approximately 4 joules of electrical energy.

The electrical energy in the energy storage system 36 is stored with the device to be ignited 28 electrically connected via one or more ignition circuits. In one embodiment, the electronic ignition system is 10 with a shock tube ignition circuit 40 and a detonator ignition circuit 42 fitted. It will be up now 3 Reference is made; the shock tube ignition circuit 40 can use a thyristor (Silicon Controlled Rectifier, SCR) 60 and a spark gap 62 include, their series combination to the capacitor 38 is connected in parallel. In one embodiment, the spark gap is 62 inside the shock tube connector 24 provided so that a connected thereto shock tube 30 can be initiated by a spark passing over the spark gap 62 is produced.

In one embodiment, the spark gap is 62 no free air gap, but rather comprises a thermoplastic "head" of the type that is suitable for initiating shock wave tubes. More particularly, the thermoplastic header comprises a pair of wires embedded in a plastic material such as polyphenylene sulfide. When the ignition voltage is applied to the embedded wires, current begins to flow in the plastic, causing its breakdown, which reduces the resistance of the plastic and thus results in avalanche breakdown of the plastic. The result is the formation of a spark of sufficient energy to initiate the shock tube. For example, in one embodiment, the thermoplastic header having the Fun kenstrecke 62 comprising an RP-87 bridgehead manufactured by Teledyne RISI, Inc. (USA). Instead, other types of headers that may be obtained from other manufacturers may as well be used.

Now continue with the description. The anode of the thyristor 60 is with a first terminal of the spark gap 62 connected. A second terminal of the spark gap 62 is with a first plate of the capacitor 38 connected. The cathode of the thyristor 60 is with a second plate of the capacitor 38 connected. The gate of the thyristor 60 stands with the control system 50 operatively connected, which is configured for the thyristor 60 to supply an appropriate "on" command or "on" signal when the countdown reaches zero. One to the spark gap 62 parallel resistor 64 causes a forward bias for the thyristor 60 , Therefore, when the thyristor 60 in response to the command from the control system 50 turned on or "ignited", the capacitor 38 to the spark gap 62 connected in parallel, resulting in the formation of a spark with sufficient energy to connect to the shock tube connector 24 connected shock tube 30 to initiate or ignite.

The detonator ignition circuit 42 can be a thyristor 66 that with the detonator connector 26 is connected in series. More precisely, the anode of the thyristor 66 is with a first terminal of the detonator connector 26 while a second terminal of the detonator connector 26 with the first plate of the capacitor 38 connected is. The gate of the thyristor 66 stands with the control system 50 operatively connected, which is configured for the thyristor 66 to supply a suitable "on" signal or "on" command when the countdown reaches zero. One to the detonator connector 26 parallel resistor 68 causes a forward bias for the thyristor 66 , A capacitor 70 which also belongs to the detonator connector 26 is connected in parallel, ensures transient suppression. When the thyristor 66 in response to the command from the control system 50 turned on or "ignited" becomes the capacitor 38 to the terminals of the detonator connector 26 connected, which provides the electrical energy required to make a detonator 32 to initiate or detonate with the detonator connector 26 electrically connected.

The detector system 44 can be a pair of voltage divider networks 72 and 74 include that leading to the capacitor 38 are connected in parallel. More precisely, a first voltage divider network 72 can have a first and a second resistance 76 and 78 include in series to the capacitor 38 are connected. A second voltage divider network 74 can have three resistances 68 . 80 and 82 include in series to the capacitor 38 are connected. Please refer 3 , It should be noted that the resistance 68 also to the first and second terminals of the detonator connector 26 is connected in parallel. The arrangement is such that the total resistance of the resistors 68 and 80 approximately equal to the resistance of the resistor 76 of the first voltage divider network 72 is. Similarly, the resistance of the resistor should be 80 approximately equal to the resistance of the resistor 78 of the first voltage divider network 72 be.

The control system 50 stands with the node ("Vcap") between the resistors 76 and 78 , the node ("CapV") between the resistor 76 and the capacitor 38 as with the node ("VBLCap") between the resistors 80 and 82 operationally in connection. If no detonator 32 to the terminals of the detonator connector 26 is connected, the voltages at the nodes Vcap and VBLCap are due to the balanced configuration of the two voltage divider networks 72 and 74 essentially identical. If, however, a detonator 32 (which normally has a resistance of about 2 ohms) to the terminals of the detonator connector 26 is connected, the voltages at the nodes Vcap and VBLCap are not substantially identical. The control system 50 is configured to detect this voltage difference and thus to determine if a detonator capsule 32 to the detonator connector 26 connected.

The different resistances 68 . 76 . 80 and 82 which make up the first and second voltage divider networks 72 and 74 may be any of a wide range of resistors, provided that they are voltage balanced in the manner already described 72 and 74 form. However, as will be described in more detail below, there should be the first and second voltage divider networks 72 and 74 together also a passive shunt (shunt resistor) 84 of the unloading system 46 represent the resistance values of the first and second voltage divider networks 72 and 74 be chosen so that also a reasonable degree of resistance for the passive shunt 84 of the unloading system 46 is guaranteed. For example, in one embodiment, the resistor 68 a resistance of about 330 kilohms (kΩ), while the resistance 76 has a resistance of about 1 megohm (MΩ). The resistance 80 can then with a cons value of approximately 680 kΩ, so that the series resistance of the resistors 68 and 80 is about 1 MΩ. The resistors 78 and 82 Both can have resistance values of about 10 kΩ.

As mentioned above, the electronic ignition system 10 also with a discharge system 46 for discharging electrical energy contained in the electrical energy storage system 36 stored, be equipped. In one embodiment, the unloading system comprises 46 a passive discharge section or passive shunt (shunt resistance) 84 and an active discharge section or active shunt 86 , In one embodiment, the passive shunt comprises 84 of the unloading system 46 the two voltage divider networks 72 and 74 as it attaches to the first and second plate of the capacitor 38 are connected and therefore serve the capacitor 38 to discharge over time.

The active shunt 86 can a field effect transistor (FET) 88 or another suitable switching element and a current limiting resistor or current limiting resistors 90 include, their series combination to the capacitor 38 connected. The gate of the FET 88 stands with the control system 50 operationally in communication, which is configured to the FET 88 to supply a suitable "on" signal or "on" command, if desired, the capacitor 38 about the resistance 90 to unload quickly. In addition, a switch 34 ' ( 3 ), with the power-on key 34 operationally related to the FET 88 be in parallel, so that when the power-on key 34 plugged in, the switch 34 ' closes, causing the capacitor 38 about the resistance 90 shorts. That is, the resistance 90 is always on the capacitor 38 connected when the power-on key 34 is plugged in.

The resistance 90 may be any of a spectrum of resistors that are suitable for the capacitor 38 to discharge at the desired speed and also to limit the discharge current to a safe level. For example, in one embodiment, the resistor comprises 90 a pair of parallel-connected resistors of 200 ohms (Ω).

The charging system 48 Can be used to power the electrical energy storage system 36 (eg the capacitor 38 ) so that it then contains sufficient energy to ignite the device 28 to initiate. In one embodiment, the charging system 48 comprise a boost converter circuit having an inductance 88 and a FET 94 whose series combination is connected to one (eg from a battery 96 supplied) DC voltage is connected. The capacitor 38 is to the FET 94 over a diode 98 connected in parallel, as in 3 best seen. The gate of the FET 94 stands with the control system 50 operationally related to which the FET 94 supplying a pulsed gate signal to cause it to turn on and off. An avalanche diode 99 can be between the diode 98 and the resistance 90 be in series to provide transient suppression.

The FET 94 For example, between the "on" and "off" states with arbitrary frequencies and duty cycles (ie, ratios between "on" time and "off" time) can be switched from a wide spectrum to the capacitor 38 in the desired time and up to the desired potential. In one embodiment, wherein the electronic Zündsys system 10 as described above, with a passive shunt 84 equipped, the switching frequency and the duty cycle for the FET 94 be such that the charging system 48 the capacitor 38 loads at a speed much greater than that with which it passes through the passive shunt 84 is discharged, and at a speed which allows the capacitor 38 fully charged before the countdown reaches zero. For example, in a preferred embodiment, the FET 94 with a frequency of about 10 kilohertz (kHz) between the states "on" and "off" switched. The "on" time is about 95 microseconds (μs) and the "off" time is about 5 μs. When the voltage of the battery 96 is about 9 volts, these switching times are capable of the capacitor 38 to a voltage of about 200 volts or higher, which is sufficient to a shock tube 30 or a detonator 32 to initiate.

The control system 50 can be any of a wide variety of control systems that are suitable for the various systems and components of the electronic ignition system 10 operate in accordance with the teachings set forth herein. Consequently, the invention should not be considered as referring to any particular type of control system 50 be considered limited. However, for example, in one embodiment, the control system 50 include an 8-bit CMOS FLASH microcontroller, such as the PIC16F72 type, available from Microchip Technology, Inc. of Chandler, AZ (USA). The microcontroller may be programmed to control various systems in the manner described herein.

It will now be on the 3 and 4 Simultaneously referred to: The electronic ignition system 10 can be operated as follows to a device to be ignited 28 (eg a shock tube 30 or a detonator 32 ) to initiate or ignite. If the electronic ignition system 10 first turned on, the control system 50 first the actual voltage of the battery 96 measure up. In one embodiment, the battery 96 a conventional 9 volt alkaline battery, which when "fresh" normally develops a voltage of about 9.5 volts. The microcontroller of the control system 50 can be programmed to search for a battery voltage of at least 7.5 volts. If the control system 50 does not find at least 7.5 volts, the processing operation is aborted and a "low battery voltage" error message appears on the display system 18 displayed. The user is then unable to proceed; he can only use the electronic ignition system 10 turn off.

If it is determined that the voltage of the battery 96 7.5 volts or more, the control system can 50 then simultaneously all segments of the LED display 20 turn on, causing a test load to the battery 96 is connected. It is possible that, although the initial battery check is successful, the battery 96 can be so heavily discharged that it does not have the capacity to the electronic ignition system 10 to operate for any length of time. This test load is to the battery 96 for a certain period of time (eg, about two seconds). The control system 50 can again the voltage of the battery 96 measure up. If the battery voltage has fallen to 6.6 volts or less, less than 20% of the original battery capacity remains. If so, the processing is aborted and an error message appears on the display system 18 displayed. The user is then unable to proceed; he can only use the electronic ignition system 10 turn off.

After these two battery tests, the control system can 50 be configured or programmed for a standard delay or countdown time on the display system 18 display. The control system 50 then waits for a user input from the keys 16 the front panel and the removal of the power key 34 , At this point, the user can choose the default countdown time or program another countdown time by pressing the different keys 16 actuated. In any case, the countdown time will be on the LED indicator 20 displayed.

The Standard countdown time and the user programmable countdown time can be chosen within a wide range of times intended for the intended Application are suitable. For example, in one application, the Standard countdown time 2 minutes and 30 seconds. The user programmable Countdown time can be between a maximum of 59 minutes, 59 seconds and a minimum of 15 seconds.

A first passive safety is given when the power-on key 34 is completely inserted. If namely the power-on key 34 is fully inserted, a shunt with low resistance (formed by the resistance 90 and the closed switch 34 ' ) to the capacitor 38 physically connected in parallel, thereby preventing the capacitor from becoming 38 build up a cargo. This low-resistance shunt will also deplete any charge that may be on the capacitor 38 has built up when the power-on key 34 was deducted. A second passive safety is the high resistance or passive shunt 84 , which at any time on the capacitor 38 is available. The passive shunt 84 prevents any charge from taking longer in the capacitor 38 remains.

As already mentioned, the electronic ignition system 10 also with an active shunt 86 be equipped by the control system 50 can be controlled. From the time when the electronic ignition system 10 is turned on until the time when the control system 50 the capacitor 38 to load is the active shunt 86 closed, which also prevents any charge on the capacitor 38 builds up, even if the power-on key 34 is deducted. The combination of the passive and the active shunt 84 and 86 As described herein, a situation in which it is either not possible creates a charge on the capacitor 38 or when a cargo is being set up, this is actually done in a "race" with the goal of building and holding a sufficient charge faster than the charge via the passive (ie high resistance) shunt 84 is dissipated.

After the desired countdown time has been selected, e.g. B. via the buttons 16 , and on the LED indicator 20 has been confirmed, the user must then the power-on key 34 pull off. The removal of the power-on key 34 does two things. First, this will be one of the shunts on the capacitor 38 physically removed (namely by opening the switch 34 ' ). Second, the changed state of the switch 34 ' from the control system 50 recognized. At this time, the control system triggers 50 countdown and ignores any further input from the user input system 14 , The control system 50 keeps the active resistance 86 closed until the countdown reaches one minute (or less if the set time is less than a minute). The Steue insurance system 50 then opens the active shunt 86 and starts the charging circuit 48 to drive to the capacitor 38 to load. As mentioned, the pulse duration and the frequency of the FET must be 88 supplied signal to be such that the charging circuit 48 the capacitor 38 at a rate higher than the speed at which the capacitor is charged 38 by the passive (ie having a high resistance) shunt 84 unloaded. That is, the charging speed caused by the charging circuit 48 must be higher than the discharge speed over the passive shunt 84 , The charging speed should also be sufficiently high, so that the capacitor 38 fully charged before the countdown reaches zero.

As soon as the capacitor 38 applied voltage reaches 200 volts, for example, modulates the control system 50 the charging circuit 48 (ie turn it on and off) to the voltage of the capacitor 38 at about 200 volts. The control system 50 can the voltage on the capacitor 38 by monitoring the voltage at node Vcap. During the countdown the user can switch on the power key at any time 34 plug in again. The re-insertion of the power-on key 34 then does two things. First, this creates a low-resistance shunt on the capacitor 38 physically reset, passing over the resistance 90 unloaded. Second, the re-plugging the power key closes 34 a switch 34 ' ( 3 ), what about the control system 50 is recognized. The control system 50 then aborts the countdown and switches to an operating state in which the user can change or reset the countdown time. If the control system 50 is unable to re-insert the power-on key 34 to recognize (ie by detecting the changed state of the switch 34 ' ), the re-insertion of the power-on key causes 34 in that the shunt with low resistance across the capacitor 38 being reset, being aware of the resistance 90 unloaded and thus prevents any further buildup of cargo.

Under normal circumstances, ie when the power-on key 34 not plugged in again, sets the control system 50 the countdown continues to zero, where is the voltage across the capacitor 38 at approximately the desired ignition voltage (eg, about 200 volts) is maintained by monitoring the voltage at node Vcap and passing through the charging system 48 modulated in the manner already described. At this time, the control system determines 50 that with the detector system 44 works together, whether a detonator 32 to the detonator connector 26 connected. This detection is accomplished by adjusting the voltages at the various nodes of the first and second voltage divider networks 72 and 74 be compared. That is, if the voltage at node VBLCap is approximately equal to the voltage at node Vcap, the control system concludes 50 that no detonator 32 connected. Therefore, the control system operates or ignites 50 when the countdown reaches zero, the shock tube ignition circuit 40 , Otherwise, if the voltage at node VBLCap is not equal to the voltage at node Vcap, the control system concludes 50 that a detonator 32 to the detonator connector 26 connected. The control system 50 then actuates or ignites the detonator ignition circuit 42 when the countdown reaches zero. After ignition, the control system shows 50 then an indication that it has ignited and what it has ignited (ie either the shock tube ignition circuit 40 or the detonator ignition circuit 42 ). The control system 50 also stops driving the charging circuit 48 and sets the active shunt 86 on the capacitor 38 come back.

Optionally, the control system 50 immediately prior to ignition of the corresponding ignition circuit (eg, either the shock tube ignition circuit 40 or the detonator ignition circuit 42 ) on the capacitor 38 measure built-up voltage across the voltage at node Vcap. In one embodiment, the voltage across the capacitor should be 38 at least 160 volts. If the voltage on the capacitor 38 is at least 160 volts, the control system operates 50 the corresponding ignition circuit in the manner already described. If the voltage is less than about 160 volts, the control system operates 50 still the appropriate ignition circuit, but it also causes a "low battery voltage" indication on the display system 18 , Such an error message indicates that the battery 96 should be changed before attempting to fire again with the same countdown setting or a longer countdown setting. If the energy was insufficient to initiate a detonation, the control system may 50 provide an indication of the probable cause (eg a low battery voltage).

again the voltage of the battery 96 , This allows measuring the voltage of the battery 96 a determination of how strong the battery is 96 was discharged during the countdown process. If it is determined that the voltage of the battery 96 is less than about 6.6 volts then shows the control system 50 a signal "low battery voltage" instead of an ignition indication. In this Trap prevents the control system 50 not the operation of the corresponding ignition circuit. The control system 50 Rather, it simply displays the indication "low battery voltage", which means that the battery 96 should be replaced before attempting to ignite again.

After ignition, the control system responds 50 no longer on any input from the user input system 14 or the power-on key 34 , The electronic ignition system 10 must be switched off and on to start another ignition sequence. This is to force a system check before a countdown can be triggered again.

After this here preferred embodiments of the present invention, it is believed that suitable Modifications can be made to this, which are still within remain the scope of the invention. The invention may therefore only according to the following claims be interpreted:

SUMMARY

One electronic ignition system may be a first ignition circuit and a second ignition circuit. A detection system comprising the first and second ignition circuits operationally, detects whether a device to be ignited is connected to one of the first and second ignition circuit. The electronic ignition system operates a the first and second ignition circuit, with which the one to ignite Device is connected.

Claims (22)

Electronic ignition system comprising: a first ignition circuit; a second ignition circuit; and a detection system with the first and the second ignition circuit operationally related, wherein the detection system Detects whether to ignite Device is connected to one of the first and second ignition circuit, and the electronic ignition system one of the first and second ignition circuits, with which to ignite Device is connected, operated. Electronic ignition system according to claim 1, wherein the detection system detects whether the device to be ignited connected to the second ignition circuit is, and the electronic ignition system that second ignition system actuated, when the detection system detects that the device to be ignited with the second ignition circuit connected is. Electronic ignition system according to claim 2, wherein the electronic ignition system, the first ignition circuit actuated, when the detection system detects that the device to be ignited not with the second ignition circuit connected is. Electronic ignition system according to claim 1, further comprising an electrical energy storage device comprises wherein the first and the second ignition circuit with the electrical energy storage device operationally keep in touch. Electronic ignition system according to claim 4, further comprising a charging system, wherein the charging system with the electrical energy storage device operationally communicates and the charging system, the electrical energy storage device charged with electrical energy. Electronic ignition system according to claim 5, further comprising a control system, wherein Control system with the first ignition circuit, the second ignition circuit, the detection system and the charging system operationally in connection stands, the control system controls the charging system and the control system in response to a signal from the detection system one of the first and second ignition circuit actuated, wherein the signal from the detection system is related to whether the one to ignite Device with the second ignition circuit connected is. Electronic ignition system according to claim 6, wherein the electrical energy storage device at least comprises a capacitor. Electronic ignition system according to claim 7, wherein the detection system comprises: a first voltage divider, which is connected in parallel with the at least one capacitor; and a second voltage divider leading to the first voltage divider is connected in parallel, wherein the second voltage divider at least comprises a first resistor, which to the output terminals of the second ignition system also connected in parallel. Electronic ignition system, which includes: a electrical energy storage device; an ignition circuit, the operationally with the electrical energy storage device communicates with the ignition circuit can be operated to the electrical energy storage device with one to be ignited Electrically connect device; and a discharge system, with the electrical energy storage device operationally in communication with the unloading system can be operated, to electrically discharge the electrical energy storage device. Electronic ignition system according to claim 9, further comprising a control system and wherein the unloading system includes an active shunt connected to the control system operationally connected, the control system activates the active shunt, to cause the active shunt the electrical energy storage device in response to a signal from the control system electrically discharges. Electronic ignition system according to claim 10, wherein the active shunt a switch and a with the resistor connected in series with the switch. Electronic ignition system according to claim 9, further comprising a charging system, the with the electrical energy storage device operationally in communication, the charging system being the electrical energy storage device charging at a charging speed. Electronic ignition system according to claim 12, wherein the electrical energy storage device has a Capacitor comprises and wherein the charging system has an inductance and a switch incorporated in Series are connected to a voltage source, and a diode, between a node between the inductance and the Switch and a first plate of the capacitor connected is, includes; wherein a second plate of the capacitor is connected to the voltage source connected is. Electronic ignition system according to claim 12, wherein the unloading system comprises a passive shunt, wherein the passive shunt with the electrical energy storage device operationally related and the passive shunt the electrical energy storage device with a discharge speed discharges which is smaller than the loading speed. Electronic ignition system, which includes: a electrical energy storage device; a charging system that with the electrical energy storage device operationally in communication, the charging system being the electrical energy storage device charged with electrical energy; a ignition circuit the operationally with the electrical energy storage device communicates with the ignition circuit can be operated to the electrical energy storage device with one to be ignited Electrically connect device; and a control system, which is operationally in communication with the charging system, wherein the control system in response to a user-initiated Command activates the charging system. Electronic ignition system according to claim 15, wherein the ignition circuit is operationally in communication with the control system and the Control system the ignition circuit pressed to the electrical energy storage device with a to be ignited Electrically connect device. Electronic ignition system according to claim 16, further comprising a second ignition circuit, the with the electrical energy storage device and with the control system operationally connected, wherein the second ignition circuit can be operated by the control system, the electrical Energy storage device with a device to be ignited electrically connect. Electronic ignition system according to claim 17, further comprising a detection system associated with the control system is operationally connected, wherein the detection system detects whether a device to be ignited with the second ignition circuit is connected, and the control system, the second ignition circuit actuated, when the detection system detects that the device to be ignited with the second ignition circuit connected is. Method of ignition a device comprising: operational Connecting the device to an electronic ignition system, the electronic ignition system at least one electrical energy storage device, an ignition circuit, a control system and a user interface; Operate the user interface to enter a mode of operation; To adjust a countdown time; Trigger a countdown, wherein the control system, the electrical energy storage device during the Countdowns loads and the control system the ignition circuit actuated, to ignite the device when the countdown reaches zero. Method for controlling an electronic ignition system, which includes: Triggering a countdown; Charging an electrical energy storage system while the Countdown performed becomes; Detecting if a device to ignite with a Ignition connection of the electronic Ignition system connected is; and Energizing the ignition connection, with which to ignite Device is connected when the countdown reaches zero. The method of claim 20, wherein triggering a Countdowns dialing includes a standard countdown time. The method of claim 20, wherein triggering a Countdowns dialing includes a countdown time.