Patent Description:
Explosives are used in many modern-day applications. For example, explosives are used in building or other demolition, earth movement for construction, and military applications. Military and law enforcement applications include breaching doors, walls, bulkheads, and other structures. For example, the goal may be to gain rapid entry to a fortified compound or to remove an obstacle for a tactical advantage. In operation, explosives are placed in position and then detonated from a safe distance.

In a conventional explosive initiation sequence, an ignition device, such as a pen flare gun, is utilized to ignite a main explosive charge. The ignition device fires percussion caps, for example shot gun primers, to initiate the explosive process. The shotgun primers transmit an initiating signal along a stand-off device, such as electrical wire, "shock-tube," time fuse, or detonating cord to a blasting cap. When activated by the initiating signal, the blasting cap detonates the main explosive charge.

The shock tube allows a user to distance himself from the main explosive charge and also to lower the amount of explosive needed to detonate a charge. The shock tube may be a shock tube, such as NONEL®. Shock tube is a hollow extruded tube containing a thin layer of energetic materials on its inner diameter. Once initiated, the shock tube transmits a signal to a detonating output charge, typically incorporating an instantaneous output or a predetermined delay. Such a shock tube is "non-electric," so an electric current is not transmitted to the detonator.

In conventional systems, detonators, such as blasting caps, are crimped onto one end of the shock tube. When the firing impulse is delivered from the primers, the shock tube ignites the blasting caps. The blasting caps are taped or affixed to a loop of detonating cord or directly to the explosive charge. Detonating cord typically is a flexible plastic tube filled with an explosive material, such as PETN or similar explosive material. The blasting caps ignite the explosive material in the detonating cord, which explodes along the length of the cord to ignite the main explosive charge.

In conventional systems, a user is in proximity to the explosives throughout the configuration, transportation, and deployment process. The systems are typically configured at a central location and transported assembled to a desired location. If the pen flare gun accidentally fires a primer, such as during transport, the entire explosive sequence starts, resulting in an explosion that may injure the operator(s) and/or compromise the mission. Additionally, in conventional systems, when an operator desires to perform multiple detonations, the operator must transport multiple pen flare guns attached to multiple, independent explosive systems. Further relevant cited prior art is described in <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT>.

The present invention provides a system comprising a priming well and a cap box. The system has the features defined in claim <NUM>.

This description relates to an explosive detonating system having one or more connectable components to connect/disconnect the pathway that ignites an explosion. The components comprise a firing actuator that activates primers (percussion caps), an adapter that connects the firing actuator to shock tube and channels the ignition force into the shock tube, a cap box that houses blasting caps coupled to the end of the shock tube, and a priming well that is coupled to the blasting caps and the detonating cord. When the firing actuator is initiated, the percussion caps ignite sending an explosive wave into the adapter, which channels the wave into the shock tube and ignites the shock tube. The explosive wave travels through the shock tube and activates the blasting caps housed in the cap box and inserted into the priming well, which activate the detonating cord in the priming well. Then, the detonating cord activates a main explosive charge. The main explosive charge is placed in a location to provide a desired effect from the resulting explosion. For example, the system may be employed as a breaching system to breach structures or other suitable applications.

These and other aspects, objects, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of illustrated examples.

Turning now to the drawings, in which like numerals represent like (but not necessarily identical) elements throughout the figures, the innovations are described in detail.

This description relates to an explosive detonating system having one or more connectable components to connect/disconnect the pathway that ignites an explosion. The components comprise a firing actuator that activates primers (percussion caps); an adapter that connects the firing actuator to shock tube and channels the ignition force into the shock tube; a cap box that houses the blasting caps coupled to the end of the shock tube; and a priming well that is coupled to detonating cord or an explosive charge or material. The aforementioned alternative, concerning the explosive charge or material, is an unclaimed variant. When the firing actuator is initiated, the percussion caps ignite sending an explosive wave into the adapter, which channels the wave into the shock tube and ignites the shock tube. The explosive wave travels through the shock tube and activates the blasting caps housed in the cap box and inserted into the priming well, which activate the detonating cord in the priming well. Then, the detonating cord activates a main explosive charge. The main explosive charge is placed in a location to provide a desired effect from the resulting explosion. For example, the system may be employed as a breaching system to breach structures or other suitable applications.

The explosive detonating system includes a quick connect/disconnect between the primer firing actuator and the shock tube. This part of the explosive detonating system comprises the firing actuator, primers, and an adapter cartridge that connects one end of the shock tube to the firing actuator.

The explosive detonating system also includes a quick connect/disconnect between the blasting caps coupled to the other end of the shock tube and the detonating cord that is attached to the main explosive charge. This part of the explosive detonating system includes a cap box and a priming well.

The explosive detonating system can allow an operator to easily and quickly connect/disconnect the components. In this manner, the operator can transport or store a disassembled explosive system that is not in a position to fire accidentally. Then, the operator can connect the system components together when desired with minimal delay. For example, the operator can connect the components of the system when at a location to be breached, thereby not transporting an armed system that could fire accidentally.

The explosive detonating system also can reduce a possibility of the explosive system initiating prematurely compared to conventional systems, which lessens the danger to the operator and bystanders. This benefit is created because the explosive detonating system is disconnected between the primer firing actuator and the shock tube, as well as between the blasting caps and the detonating cord until the operator is ready to initiate the main explosive charge.

Additionally, a single firing actuator for firing the blasting caps can be used for multiple explosive detonating systems. The reusable firing actuator described herein lessons the burden of transporting multiple firing actuators, or other shock tube initiators, to the breaching location.

<FIG> and <FIG> are illustrations depicting an explosive detonating system <NUM>, in accordance with certain examples. <FIG> is an assembly drawing depicting components of the explosive detonating system <NUM> in exploded form, in accordance with certain examples. <FIG> is an illustration depicting the assembled explosive detonating system <NUM>, in accordance with certain examples.

The explosive detonating system <NUM> comprises a firing actuator <NUM> that activates one or more primers (not visible in <FIG> and <FIG>; see item <NUM> of <FIG>).

A shock tube adapter <NUM> connects the firing actuator <NUM> to one end of shock tube <NUM>. The shock tube <NUM> is inserted into one end of the shock tube adapter <NUM>. The shock tube <NUM> typically comprises two tubes for redundancy. One or both of the tubes can be uses as desired. The other end of the shock tube adapter <NUM> is insertable into and removable from the firing actuator <NUM> and mechanically locks to the firing actuator <NUM>. The shock tube adapter <NUM> provides a connect/disconnect between the primers and the shock tube106 and the primers/shock tube <NUM> and the firing actuator <NUM>. Although not depicted in <FIG>, the shock tube adapter can comprise a removeable cap that covers and protects the primers from being struck during transport. The cap can be formed from a plastic, rubber, or other suitable material.

Blasting caps (not visible in <FIG> and <FIG>; see item <NUM> of <FIG>) are connected to the other end of the shock tube <NUM>. For example, the blasting caps can be crimped or otherwise mechanically fastened to the shock tube <NUM>.

As depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>, the blasting caps can be inserted into a cap box <NUM>. The cap box <NUM> protects the blasting caps during storage and/or transport of the blasting caps. Additionally, the cap box <NUM> facilitates coupling the blasting caps to detonating cord <NUM> via a priming well <NUM>. Although not depicted in <FIG>, the cap box can comprise a removeable cap or other cover that covers and protects the blasting caps from being struck during transport. The cap can be formed from a plastic, rubber, or other suitable material.

The priming well <NUM> retains the blasting caps on the shock tube <NUM> in proximity to the detonating cord <NUM>. The blasting caps and one end of the detonating cord are inserted into the priming well <NUM>. The priming well <NUM> is designed such that insertion of the blasting caps and the detonating cord <NUM> into the priming well <NUM> fixes the blasting caps and the detonating cord <NUM> in close proximity. For example, the blasting caps and the detonating cord <NUM> can be inserted into the priming well <NUM> such that the blasting caps are close enough to the detonating cord <NUM> to initiate the detonating cord <NUM> when the blasting caps are initiated. The priming well <NUM> can retain the blasting caps in contact with the detonating cord <NUM> prior to initiation of the blasting caps. In this configuration, initiation of the detonating cord <NUM> by the blasting caps is more reliable. However, the priming well <NUM> also may retain the blasting caps in proximity to the detonating cord <NUM> without physical contact between the blasting caps and the detonating cord <NUM>. In this configuration, the gap between the blasting caps and the detonating cord <NUM> is maintained at a distance that is not more than a distance that will allow the blasting caps to initiate the detonating cord <NUM>.

The other end of the detonating cord <NUM> is coupled to a main explosive charge <NUM>. The main explosive charge <NUM> may not be utilized if the explosive force of the detonating cord <NUM> is sufficient to achieve the desired result.

The priming well <NUM> provides a connect/disconnect between the blasting caps coupled to the shock tube <NUM> and the detonating cord <NUM> that is attached to the main explosive charge <NUM>.

In operation, initiation of the primers by the firing actuator <NUM> introduces an explosive ignition wave from the primers into the shock tube <NUM>, via the shock tube adapter <NUM>. The explosive wave traveling through the shock tube <NUM> initiates the blasting caps, which are held in proximity to the detonating cord <NUM> via the priming well <NUM>. Initiation of the blasting caps initiates the detonating cord <NUM>. Then, the detonating cord <NUM> initiates the main explosive charge <NUM>.

The firing actuator <NUM> will now be described with reference to <FIG> is a perspective, cut-out view depicting a firing actuator <NUM>, in accordance with certain examples.

The firing actuator <NUM> comprises a housing <NUM> in which multiple components are positioned. A trigger <NUM> that works in conjunction with one or more hammers <NUM> mechanically moves one or more corresponding firing pins <NUM>. A trigger reset spring <NUM> biases an upper portion of the trigger <NUM> toward the hammers <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the hammers <NUM> are depicted in a "safe" position. As the hammers <NUM> are cocked by movement in direction A, a lower portion of the hammers <NUM> pushes an upper portion of the trigger <NUM> against the trigger <NUM> reset spring until the hammers <NUM> lock in the cocked position via engagement of the components 302a of the trigger <NUM> and 304a of the hammers <NUM>. A hammer torsion spring <NUM> biases the hammers <NUM> in a direction opposite of the direction A. The trigger <NUM> and hammers <NUM> are held in the cocked position by the biasing force of the trigger reset spring <NUM> and the hammer torsion spring <NUM> that engage the components 302a of the trigger <NUM> and 304a of the hammers <NUM>.

When the operator pulls the trigger <NUM> in the direction B, the upper portion of the trigger <NUM> moves away from the lower portion of the hammers <NUM> thereby disengaging the components 302a of the trigger <NUM> and 304a of the hammers <NUM>. The biasing force of the hammer torsion spring <NUM> moves the hammers <NUM> in a direction opposite the direction A with sufficient force to move one or more corresponding firing pins <NUM> in a direction C. Corresponding firing pin reset springs <NUM> bias the firing pins <NUM> in a direction opposite the direction C. As the hammers <NUM> move in the direction opposite of direction A, the hammers <NUM> strike the corresponding firing pins <NUM> with a force sufficient to overcome the biasing force of the firing pin reset springs <NUM> to cause the firing pins <NUM> to contact one or more primers (not depicted in <FIG>) positioned adjacent to the firing pins <NUM>. Another version of the firing actuator <NUM> comprises a double-action trigger system. In this case, the hammers <NUM> do not have to be cocked. Pulling the trigger <NUM> will initially move the hammers <NUM> in the direction A. Further pulling of the trigger <NUM> will then release the hammers <NUM> to move in the direction opposite the direction A to actuate the primers. Additionally, multiple triggers <NUM> may be provided such that each hammer <NUM> has a corresponding trigger <NUM> that actuates that hammer <NUM>.

Although not depicted in <FIG>, a hammer and firing pin may be combined into a single component. For example, the hammer may have a firing pin formed as part of the hammer. In operation of this design, when the hammer is released from the cocked position, the firing pin on the hammer directly strikes the primer. This operation contrasts to the hammer striking the firing pin, and then the firing pin striking the primer. The firing pin reset springs <NUM> may be omitted in this design. A single hammer may have two integrally formed firing pins. Two hammers having corresponding integrally formed firing pins may also be utilized.

An ejection latch <NUM> and ejection pin <NUM> allow insertion and removal of the shock tube adapter <NUM> into the firing actuator <NUM>. The ejection latch <NUM> pivots around a pin <NUM> coupled to the housing <NUM>. An ejection latch spring <NUM> biases one end of the ejection latch <NUM> around the pin <NUM> in a direction D, which biases an opposite end of the ejection latch <NUM> in a direction E. As the shock tube adapter <NUM> is inserted into the firing actuator <NUM>, the shock tube adaptor <NUM> contacts a tab 316a on the ejection latch <NUM>. This contact moves the tab 316a of the ejection latch <NUM> in a direction opposite to direction E, which moves the opposite end 316b of the ejection latch <NUM> around the pin <NUM> in a direction opposite of the direction D and against the biasing force of the ejection latch spring <NUM>. When the shock tube adapter <NUM> is inserted fully into the firing actuator <NUM>, the biasing force of the ejection latch spring <NUM> moves the corresponding end 316b of the ejection latch <NUM> in the direction D, which moves the tab 316a in the direction E to engage with a retaining indent (not illustrated in <FIG>; see item 504c of <FIG>) of the shock tube adapter <NUM>. This engagement locks the shock tube adapter <NUM> in position in the firing actuator <NUM>. Additionally, when the shock tube adapter <NUM> is inserted into the firing actuator <NUM>, the shock tube adaptor <NUM> moves the ejection pin in a direction opposite the direction C against a biasing force of an ejection spring <NUM>.

Although not depicted in <FIG>, the ejection pin and ejection spring may be replaced with an ejection spring that pushes directly on the shock tube adapter <NUM>. This ejection spring may be fixed in place such that insertion of the shock tube adapter <NUM> compresses the ejection spring, and the biasing force of the ejection spring pushes the shock tube adapter <NUM> from the firing actuator <NUM> when the ejection latch <NUM> is released.

To remove the shock tube adapter <NUM> from the firing actuator <NUM>, the operator pushes an end 316b of the ejection latch <NUM> in a direction opposite the direction D against the biasing force of the ejection latch spring <NUM>. This operation moves the tab 316a of the ejection latch <NUM> in a direction opposite to the direction E to disengage the tab 316a of the ejection latch <NUM> from the retaining indent of the shock tube <NUM> adaptor. The biasing force of the ejection spring <NUM> moves the ejection pin <NUM> in the direction C to push the shock tube adaptor <NUM> from the firing actuator <NUM>.

Various options for implementing the firing actuator <NUM> are suitable. For example, the firing actuator <NUM> may comprise a single hammer or multiple hammers <NUM> and a corresponding single firing pin or multiple firing pins <NUM>. Additionally, a single hammer may be sized to contact both firing pins. If two hammers are utilized, they may be linked together to operate as a single hammer. For example, a pin may be inserted through apertures or slots in both hammers to link the two hammers together. In this case, movement of one hammer results in corresponding movement of the other hammer. The pin can be slideable from one hammer into the other hammer, such that operation of one hammer independently of the other hammer is possible if desired and operation of both hammers as a single unit is possible if desired. Other mechanisms for releasing the hammers <NUM> from the cocked position may be utilized. If the ejection spring <NUM> and ejection pin <NUM> are not used, the operator may manually pull the shock tube adapter <NUM> from the firing actuator <NUM>. Other latching arrangements may be utilized to retain the shock tube adapter <NUM> in the firing actuator <NUM>. For example, the ejection latch <NUM> and ejection latch spring <NUM> may be positioned on the shock tube adapter <NUM> to engage with a corresponding retaining indent on the firing actuator <NUM>. The ejection latch <NUM> may be integral to the firing actuator <NUM> or the shock tube adapter <NUM>. In this case, the ejection latch spring <NUM> may be omitted because the elastic force of the ejection latch <NUM> will bias the ejection latch <NUM> in position. One or multiple ejection latches may be used.

The firing device comprises two independent firing sides operated at least by one trigger <NUM>. The operator can cock both hammers <NUM> or one hammer, and the single trigger <NUM> will release one hammer <NUM> or both hammers <NUM> simultaneously, depending on the number of cocked hammers. This operation allows the operator to use one initiating device for either single or dual primed charges.

The shock tube adapter <NUM> will now be described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. <FIG> is a perspective view depicting a shock tube adapter <NUM>, in accordance with certain examples. <FIG> is a perspective view showing assembly of a two-piece shock tube adapter <NUM> and shock tube <NUM>, in accordance with certain examples.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the shock tube adapter <NUM> comprises a primer case <NUM> and a shock tube case <NUM>. The shock tube <NUM> is inserted into and retained by the shock tube case <NUM>. Primers are inserted into the primer case <NUM>. The shock tube case <NUM> and the primer case <NUM> couple together to form the shock tube adapter <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the primer case <NUM> comprises a primer housing 504a having continuous apertures 504b extending through the primer housing 504a. The apertures 504b are sized to receive the primers <NUM>. The apertures 504b may retain the primers <NUM> therein via compression fit. The primers <NUM> also may be adhered into the apertures 504b, mechanically retained therein, or otherwise fixed in position. For example, a retainer clip may be utilized to retain the primers <NUM> in the apertures 504b. The primer apertures 504b open into an expansion chamber (not visible in <FIG>; see item <NUM> of <FIG>) leading to both shock tubes, thereby allowing either primer charge to initiate one or both shock tubes.

The primer case <NUM> further comprises a retaining indent 504c. The retaining indent 504c receives the tab 316a of the ejection latch <NUM> of the firing actuator <NUM> (as described previously with reference to <FIG>) when the shock tube adapter <NUM> is inserted into the firing actuator <NUM> (as described previously with reference to <FIG>).

The primer case <NUM> further comprises at least one retaining tab 504d. The tab 504d engages a corresponding retaining indent 506d in the shock tube case <NUM> to latch the primer case <NUM> and the shock tube case <NUM> together. While only one tab 504d is visible, the primer case <NUM> may include multiple tabs 504d. For example, the primer case <NUM> may include two tabs 504d on the top and bottom of an end that faces the shock tube case <NUM>. Alternatively, the tabs may be located on the shock tube case <NUM> and engage with corresponding indents or apertures on the primer case <NUM>.

The shock tube case <NUM> comprises a shock tube housing 506a having continuous apertures 506b extending through the shock tube housing 506a. The apertures 506b are sized to receive the shock tube <NUM>.

The shock tube case <NUM> further comprises tabs 506c around the apertures 506b. The shock tube <NUM> is inserted into the apertures 506b at one end of the shock tube case <NUM>, pushed through the apertures 506b of the shock tube case <NUM>, and at least partially engage in the tabs 506c on an opposite end of the apertures 506b in the shock tube case <NUM>. The shock tube <NUM> may extend past the tabs 506c of the shock tube case <NUM>.

The tabs 506c are sized around the apertures 506b to allow the shock tube <NUM> to pass therethrough. The tabs 506c are further sized to mate in the aperture 504b of the primer case <NUM> when the shock tube case <NUM> and the primer case <NUM> are attached together. As the tabs 506c are inserted into the apertures 504b of the primer case <NUM>, the apertures 504b compress the tabs 506c of the shock tube case <NUM> toward the center of the apertures 506b of the shock tube case <NUM>. This movement clamps the tabs 506c of the shock tube case <NUM> around the shock tube <NUM> in the apertures 506b to retain the shock tube <NUM> in the shock tube case <NUM>. The apertures 506b may retain the shock tube <NUM> therein via compression fit without extending into the tabs 506c.

Connecting the shock tube case <NUM> and the primer case <NUM> connects the apertures 506b of the shock tube case <NUM> with the apertures 504b of the primer case <NUM> to thereby create a continuous path from the primers <NUM> through the apertures 504b (and sometimes at least part of the apertures 506b) to the shock tube <NUM>. In this manner, an explosive wave created by initiation of the primers <NUM> can travel to the shock tube <NUM>. In one design, the primer case <NUM> comprises an expansion chamber <NUM> (see <FIG>) that connects the apertures 504b of the primer case <NUM> with the apertures 506b of the shock tube case <NUM>. Both apertures 504b open into the expansion chamber <NUM>, and both apertures 506b open into the expansion chamber <NUM>. Accordingly, the expansion chamber <NUM> funnels the blast from a single percussion cap <NUM> to both apertures 506b to initiate both lines of shock tube <NUM>. Thus, if only one primer fires, the expansion chamber <NUM> funnels the blast to both lines of shock tube to ensure a dual system ignition. The expansion chamber is optional, and each aperture 504b may directly connect to a respective one of the apertures 506b. In this case, each primer <NUM> will activate only a corresponding one of the shock tubes <NUM>.

The shock tube case <NUM> further comprises one or more retaining indents 506d that correspond with the retaining tabs 504d of the primer case <NUM>. The retaining indents 506d receive the retaining tabs 504d to connect the shock tube case <NUM> to the primer case <NUM>. The operator can push the retaining tabs 504d from engagement with the retaining indents 506d to disconnect the shock tube case <NUM> from the primer case <NUM>.

Various options for implementing the shock tube adapter <NUM> are suitable. For example, the primer case <NUM> and shock tube case <NUM> may be formed integrally as a single piece. In this case, the apertures can be continuous from the end in which the primers <NUM> are inserted to the opposite end in which the shock tube <NUM> is inserted. This design also can incorporate the expansion chamber <NUM> between the primer end and the shock tube end of the primer case <NUM>. The apertures for receiving the shock tube <NUM> can be tapered from the end in which the shock tube <NUM> is inserted to a smaller area inside the shock tube case <NUM> or the shock tube adapter <NUM>. In this case, the shock tube adapter <NUM> retains the shock tube <NUM> via compression as the shock tube <NUM> is inserted into the shock tube adapter <NUM>.

The two-piece design of the shock tube adapter <NUM> allows a further separation of the primers <NUM> from the blasting caps, detonating cord <NUM>, and the main explosive charge <NUM>. The primer case <NUM> can be removed from the shock tube adapter <NUM> to disconnect the primers <NUM> from the system. The primer also can be carried separately and connected to the shock tube case <NUM> on location. In another instance, the shock tube adapter can also be a single assembly device in which percussion caps are inserted or press fitted into the firing device end and shock tube is inserted into the explosive end and secured with either a tightening nut, a screw, or other suitable constricting device. The internal paths from the percussion caps to the shock tube can either be straight bore path from one percussion cap to one shock tube opening, or a cross-bored path that intersects or an expansion chamber to allow the explosion from one percussion cap to travel to both shock tube openings. In another instance, the shock tube adapter can be two pieces dissected horizontally creating two identical halves that snap or glue or screw together into a single piece. In this version, the shock tube adapter can have straight bore connects from the percussion caps to the shock tube, or a crossed-bored path or expansion chamber as previously described.

<FIG> and <FIG> depict the shock tube adapter <NUM> engaged with the firing actuator <NUM>. <FIG> is a perspective view depicting the shock tube adapter <NUM> connected to the firing actuator <NUM>, in accordance with certain examples. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view depicting the shock tube adapter <NUM> connected to the firing actuator <NUM>, in accordance with certain examples.

The shock tube adapter <NUM> is inserted into the firing actuator <NUM> housing until the tab 316a of the ejection latch <NUM> of the firing actuator <NUM> engages the retaining indent 504c of the primer case <NUM> of the shock tube adapter <NUM>.

Additionally, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, a stock <NUM> can be coupled to the firing actuator <NUM>. The stock <NUM> may allow easier operation of the firing actuator <NUM> by the operator.

If only one primer <NUM> is loaded into the shock tube <NUM> adaptor, the firing actuator <NUM> will fire the single primer <NUM>. If two primers <NUM> are loaded into the shock tube <NUM> adaptor, the firing actuator <NUM> will fire both primers <NUM>.

The system can utilize two primers <NUM>, two firing pins <NUM>, two shock tubes <NUM>, and two blasting caps to create redundancy in the system and to ensure detonation of the charge. This system is referred to as dual priming. However, the system can be single primed by using only one primer <NUM> and/or one shock tube <NUM> and/or one blasting cap.

In certain examples, the shock tube adapter <NUM> is formed from plastic.

Operation of the shock tube adapter <NUM> is similar in operation and design to a magazine in a conventional firearm. An operator may load the shock tube <NUM> and primers <NUM> into the shock tube adapter <NUM> and may load the shock tube adapter <NUM> into the firing actuator <NUM>.

The hammers <NUM> are cocked, and then the shock tube adaptor <NUM> is loaded into the firing actuator <NUM>, and the firing device is initiated when the operator pulls the trigger <NUM>. The trigger <NUM> releases the hammers <NUM>, which cause the two firing pins <NUM> to engage the primers <NUM> to ignite the shock tube <NUM>.

The priming well <NUM> will now be described with reference to <FIG>. <FIG> is an assembly diagram depicting the blasting caps <NUM>, cap box <NUM>, priming well <NUM>, and detonating cord <NUM> in position for assembly, in accordance with certain examples. <FIG> is an assembly diagram depicting insertion of the detonating cord <NUM> in the priming well <NUM> and insertion of the blasting caps <NUM> in the cap box <NUM>, in accordance with certain examples. <FIG> is an assembly diagram depicting the blasting caps/cap box <NUM> and the detonating cord <NUM> inserted into the priming well <NUM>, in accordance with certain examples. <FIG> is a perspective view of one half of a priming well <NUM>, in accordance with certain examples.

The blasting caps <NUM> are attached to an end of the shock tube <NUM>. For example, the blasting caps <NUM> can be crimped to the end of the shock tube <NUM>.

The blasting caps <NUM> are inserted in to the cap box <NUM>. The cap box <NUM> allows connecting and disconnecting the blasting caps <NUM> into the priming well <NUM>. The cap box <NUM> also protects the blasting caps <NUM> during storage and/or transport. Although not depicted in <FIG>, the cap box can comprise the removeable cap or other cover that further covers and protects the blasting caps from being struck during transport. This protection can maintain the blasting caps <NUM> in proper working condition. This protection also can prevent an inadvertent detonation of the blasting caps <NUM> by accidental contact or abuse.

The cap box <NUM> comprises a cap box housing 108a having apertures 108b extending from a first end of the cap box housing 108a through the cap box housing 108a. The apertures 108b are open to an exterior of the cap box housing 108a as shown by reference numeral 108c. A second end of the cap box housing 108a is closed. However, the apertures 108a may continue through the second end of the cap box housing 108a.

The blasting caps <NUM> are inserted into the apertures 108b of the cap box housing 108a until the blasting caps <NUM> are positioned inside the cap box housing 108a. The cap box housing 108a may retain the blasting caps <NUM> via compression fit. The cap box housing may also, or alternatively, retain the blasting caps <NUM> via retaining tabs (not depicted in <FIG>) located at the opening of the apertures 108b into the cap box housing 108a. In this case, the blasting caps <NUM> move the retaining tabs outward during insertion of the blasting caps <NUM> into the cap box housing 108a, and the tabs spring around the end of the blasting caps <NUM> to hold the blasting caps <NUM> in position.

The cap box <NUM> further comprises one or more cap box retaining latches 108d coupled to the cap box housing 108a. The cap box retaining latches 108d can be integrally formed with the cap box housing 108a and connect to the cap box housing 108a at a pivot point <NUM>. The cap box retaining latches 108d further comprise a locking tab 108e at one end. The cap box retaining latches 108d may further comprise a lever tab 108f. Actuation of the lever tab 108f moves the cap box retaining latch 108d about the pivot point <NUM> to move the locking tab 108e away from the cap box housing 108a.

In certain examples, the cap box <NUM> is a single, plastic part that houses the two blasting caps <NUM> and the end of the shock tube <NUM>. The cap box <NUM> may be 3D printed or produced by any other plastic manufacturing process.

The cap box <NUM> serves at least three purposes. First, the cap box <NUM> provides a quick connect/disconnect to insert the blasting caps <NUM> into the priming well <NUM>. Second, the cap box <NUM> protects the ends of the blasting caps <NUM>, which are subject to exploding when struck on a hard surface. The cap box also can be inserted into a protective cover in a fast, disconnectable fashion.

The top and bottom of the cap box <NUM> are typically left open to allow the blasting caps <NUM> to have intimate contact with the detonating cord <NUM> when the cap box <NUM> is inserted into the priming well <NUM>. The contact allows the blasting caps <NUM> to ignite the detonating cord <NUM> more efficiently and reliably. However, the top and bottom of the cap box <NUM> do not have to be left open for the system to operate.

The priming well <NUM> comprises a priming well housing 110a having a continuous aperture 110b and a continuous aperture 110c extending therethrough. The aperture 110b receives the detonating cord <NUM>. The aperture 110c receives the cap box <NUM>. The apertures 110b and 110c are oriented such that insertion of the detonating cord <NUM> in aperture 110b and insertion of the cap box <NUM> in the aperture 110c places the detonating cord <NUM> and the blasting caps <NUM> in proximity to each other. The detonating cord <NUM> may contact the blasting caps <NUM> or otherwise be located at a distance that will allow detonating of the blasting caps <NUM> to ignite the detonating cord <NUM>.

The priming well <NUM> further comprises one or more indents (or apertures) 110e that receive the lever tab 108f of the cap box latch 108d as the cap box <NUM> is inserted into the aperture 110c of the priming well <NUM>. In this manner, the cap box <NUM> can be inserted in and retained by the priming well <NUM>. Additionally, the cap box <NUM> can be removed from the priming well <NUM> by action of the lever tab 108f away from the priming well <NUM> to release the lever tab 108e from the indent 110e of the priming well <NUM>.

The priming well housing 110a may comprise protrusions 110f extending from the priming well housing. These protrusions 110f can facilitate attaching the priming well <NUM> to the detonating cord <NUM>, the main explosive charge <NUM>, or other fixture near the desired location. For example, zip ties, straps, plastic tape, rope, or other suitable material may be utilized with the protrusions 110f to hold the priming well <NUM> in a desired position.

As shown in <FIG>, the priming well <NUM> can be formed in two halves, whereby the housing 110a comprises two components <NUM> configured to attach together to form the priming well housing 110a. Each component <NUM> may comprise one or more locking tabs 110d that mate with another component <NUM> to lock the two halves <NUM> together. <FIG> depicts one-half <NUM> of a two-piece priming well <NUM> in more detail. In addition to the priming well <NUM> components discussed previously, <FIG> depicts additional features internal to the priming well <NUM>.

Each component <NUM> of the priming well housing 110a also comprises retaining apertures 110i that receive corresponding locking tabs 110d of the other component <NUM> of the priming well housing 110a to lock the two halves of the priming well housing 110a together. The apertures 110b and 110c are open to each other internally in the priming well <NUM> as shown by reference number <NUM>. This opening allows the detonating cord <NUM> to be positioned in proximity to the blasting caps <NUM> when the detonating cord <NUM> and the blasting caps <NUM> are inserted into the priming well <NUM>. Two components <NUM> can be mated together to form the complete housing 110a of the priming well <NUM>.

The aperture 110b comprises one or more sloping portions <NUM> that are angled toward the aperture 110c. As the detonating cord <NUM> is inserted into the aperture 110b of the priming well <NUM>, the sloping portions <NUM> force the detonating cord <NUM> toward the blasting caps <NUM>. The positioning can ensure that the detonating cord <NUM> is positioned in sufficient proximity to the blasting caps <NUM> to allow detonation of the detonating cord <NUM> by the blasting caps <NUM>. The sloping configuration of the bottom of the priming well <NUM> forces the detonating cord <NUM> upward into close proximity to the blasting caps <NUM>, which may include contact with the blasting caps <NUM>. The close proximity and/or intimate contact created by the forcing together of the detonating cord <NUM> and the blasting caps <NUM> causes the ignition of the detonating cord <NUM> by the blasting caps <NUM> to be more reliable and efficient. The likelihood that the blasting caps <NUM> will fail to ignite the detonating cord <NUM> can be reduced.

The cap box <NUM> can be plugged into the priming well <NUM> from any orientation and direction allowing the operator to quickly and intuitively connect the entire explosive system and back away to a safe location. The priming well <NUM> is designed with redundant configurations on both ends of the priming well <NUM>. Accordingly, the operator may insert the cap box <NUM> in either end of the priming well <NUM> and may insert the detonating cord <NUM> in either end of the priming well <NUM>. A simpler design also is suitable. For example, the priming well <NUM> can be configured on one end to receive only the cap box <NUM> and on another end to receive only the detonating cord <NUM>.

The priming well <NUM> can retain the detonating cord <NUM> via a compression fit. For example, an area of the aperture 100b can taper to a smaller area inside the priming well <NUM> such that insertion of the detonating cord <NUM> compresses the detonating cord <NUM> inside the aperture 110b. Another method of securing the detonating cord comprises annular ridges along the length of the detonation chord path through the priming well <NUM> to physically engage the detonation cord.

Other configurations of the priming well <NUM> are suitable. For example, if the cap box <NUM> is not used, the aperture 110c can be sized to directly accommodate the blasting caps <NUM>. The blasting caps <NUM> and/or the cap box <NUM>/blasting caps <NUM> combination can be stored and/or transported in the priming well <NUM>. In this manner, the priming well <NUM> can protect the blasting caps <NUM> during storing and or transport. The aperture 110b can be formed without the sloping portions <NUM>. In this case, the apertures 110b and 110c can be formed such that the detonating cord <NUM> and blasting caps <NUM> are positioned in suitable proximity without forcing the detonating cord <NUM> toward the blasting caps <NUM>. The priming well <NUM> can be formed without the protrusions <NUM>10f. The priming well <NUM> can be formed as a single-piece construction.

<FIG> and <FIG> depict an alternative construction of the priming well <NUM>. <FIG> is a perspective view depicting a priming well <NUM>, in accordance with certain examples. <FIG> is an exploded view depicting the components of the priming well <NUM> of <FIG>, in accordance with certain examples.

The priming well <NUM> comprises an upper housing <NUM> and a lower housing <NUM>. Apertures 1202a of the upper housing <NUM> receive tabs 1204a of the lower housing <NUM> as the upper housing <NUM> and the lower housing <NUM> are mated together. The tabs 1204a engage the apertures 1202a to connect the upper housing <NUM> and the lower housing <NUM>. The upper housing <NUM> and the lower housing <NUM> can be disconnected from each other by pushing the tabs 1204a into the apertures 1202a to release the engagement.

The priming well <NUM> further comprises the features discussed previously with reference to <FIG>, except for the components that connect the two halves of the priming well housing.

In operation of the explosive detonating systems <NUM> described herein, the detonating cord <NUM> from the main explosive charge <NUM> is inserted into the priming well <NUM>. In a typical configuration, the priming well <NUM> is attached to, or hanging from, the main charge.

The operator plugs the cap box <NUM> into the priming well <NUM>. The operator plugs the shock tube adapter <NUM> into the firing actuator <NUM>. The firing actuator <NUM> is unable to initiate the firing system until all of the components of the full system are connected to one another in the described manner and the hammers <NUM> are cocked.

The explosive detonating system <NUM> allows the operator to quickly connect/disconnect from the explosive system at two critical interfaces, at the shock tube adapter <NUM> and at the priming well <NUM>. Only when the entire system is fully assembled (typically at the desired location for the explosion) is the system ready (or capable) for operation. This configuration allows for safer transport and storage of the system. In contrast, conventional systems are configured before transportation to a desired location because the components do not disassemble.

To initiate the system, the operator assembles the components as described above. The operator affixes the detonating cord <NUM> from the priming well <NUM> to the main explosive charge <NUM>. The operator transports the firing actuator <NUM> away from the main explosive charge <NUM> to a distance controlled by the length of the shock tube <NUM>. For example, the operator may use twenty feet of shock tube <NUM> to allow the operator to pull the trigger <NUM> of the firing actuator <NUM> twenty feet away from the main charge. Therefore, when the main charge explodes, the operator is in a safer location.

Although described herein as "shock tube" <NUM>, any suitable stand-off device may be utilized. For example, the stand-off device can be electrical wire, shock-tube, time fuse, detonating cord, or other suitable stand-off device.

In alternate examples, the firing actuator can be actuated via a remote laser, or other remote signaling technology, such as radio frequency or infrared. For example, the firing actuator houses a laser or radio frequency (RF) system or a combination of both having an encoded signal. The shock tube adapter comprises a laser and/or RF receiver. This configuration allows the operator to remotely detonate the explosives from a safer distance from the explosives.

The remote device can have the same mechanical mechanism that the firing actuator described herein provides, including two striking mechanisms. However, instead of attaching the hand-held firing actuator and then being tethered to the charge, the remote device is activated with a coded signal on the hand-held device.

The charge is single or double primed, then the remote device is cocked. Then, a light illuminates to show the operator that the remote device is active. The operator connects the remote device to the shock tube adapter. The operator moves to a safe location and aims the hand-held device at the remote device and transmits the encoded signal from the hand-held device. The remote device may be configured to change to another color (red) and flash three times before activating the explosive charge.

The remote device provides multiple benefits. First, this device allows the operator to make adjustments that the shock tube may not be able to reach, thus, allowing the operator some flexibility in choosing a better cover position. Second, this device can have a time delay mode, so the operator can place the charge in one location and activate it, then move to another location and place another charge. When activated, the time delay prevents detonation for a configured amount of time or until the encoded signal is transmitted. This capability gives the operator much more flexibility.

Further, conventional systems limit the distance that an operator must be from the explosion based on the length of shock tube used in the charge. For example, if ten feet of shock tube is used between the shock tube adapter and the cap box, then the operator is only able to fire the system from approximately ten feet away. Additionally, shock tube can become tangled, which may limit or prevent its effective operation. In this alternative example, the operator may only require six inches of shock tube because the operator is able to trigger the system from any distance afforded by the effective range of the coded signal. Furthermore, if the signal is an RF signal, they can effectively initiate the device without being in the line of sight. Additionally, an RF signal would work through smoke, dust, fog, and/or heavy rain.

This encoded signal system securely allows a placed charge to be detonated from much greater distances than is practical with shock tube during breaching operations. It can also better facilitate coordinated or command controlled situations. The effect of larger distances between personnel and detonations reduces the physical effects of the blast on personnel and can allow better cover and concealment thereby increasing safety.

The Remote Firing Device System (RFDS) uses a hand-held Transmitter Device (TD) that, upon illuminating a target on a charge that is equipped with a like coded Receiver-Detonator, detonates the charge. To avoid certain jamming techniques employed against the system, in certain operations, the RFDS utilizes a specific frequency containing a transmitted code.

During operations, the Receiver-Detonator (R-D) is not armed until the charge is placed in the desired location. The operator turns the power button to "On," and a light will illuminate the receiver window. The operator cocks the R-D, and the light will change color or intensity. Only then will the operator connect the R-D to the charge. Once the charge has been placed and the remote detonator is armed, the operator can move away from the charge to a position of safety. From a safe position the operator can activate the R-D unit by aiming the encoded transmitting device at the R-D and transmit the encoded initiation signal. Once the R-D receives the code, it will activate a second count down to detonation.

The Remote Firing Device System consists of two assemblies: First, A Remote Firing Device (RFD) that emits the encoded detonating signal from a position of safety and concealment. The RFD contains the transmitter and driving electronics to send a preprogrammed secure firing code to the remote detonator. The firing device will look and act much like a small hand gun to allow the transmitter to be aimed. Second, A Receiver-Detonator (R-D) that ignites an electric spark, initiates an electronic trigger, or actuates an electronically secured spring actuator which engages a firing pin to strike a percussion cap and ignite a redundant or single shock tube. The shock tube is attached to a standard blasting cap. The shock tube can be of any length allowing the placement of the R-D in a position that can be viewed from position of cover and concealment for detonation.

Certain components of the systems described herein can be combined with portions of other systems and still achieve benefits of the described systems. For example, the priming well can be incorporated into a system using a conventional firing device or other firing device. In this case, the system may be connected and disconnected between a fire mode and a safe mode by connecting and disconnecting the blasting caps from the priming well and/or the detonating cord from the priming well. Additionally, the shock tube adapter can be incorporated into a system using a conventional method and components to connect the blasting caps to the detonating cord. In this case, the system may be connected and disconnected between a fire mode and a safe mode by connecting and disconnecting the shock tube adapter from the firing device and/or the shock tube case from the priming well case.

The components and systems described herein can be formed of any suitable material. A person having ordinary skill in the art and the benefit of this disclosure will understand that multiple options exist for manufacturing the components and systems described herein. For example, the components may be formed of plastic and injection molded, <NUM>-D printed, or otherwise formed is integral or multi-component parts. The components also may be formed partially or entirely of other materials, such as metals. Individual components described herein may be formed of multiple parts formed from the same or different materials and assembled together.

The example systems, methods, and components described in the embodiments presented previously are illustrative, and, in alternative embodiments, certain components can be combined in a different order, omitted entirely, and/or combined between different example embodiments, and/or certain additional components can be added, without departing from the scope and spirit of various embodiments. Accordingly, such alternative embodiments are included in the scope of the following claims, which are to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass such alternate embodiments.

Claim 1:
A system comprising a priming well (<NUM>) to couple blasting caps (<NUM>) to a detonative cord via a cap box (<NUM>),
the priming well (<NUM>) comprising:
a housing (110a) comprising:
a first aperture (110b) extending into the housing (110a) and configured to receive the detonative cord; and
a second aperture (110c) extending into the housing (110a) and configured to receive at least one blasting cap (<NUM>), the first aperture (110b) and the second aperture (110c) overlapping inside the housing (110a) to dispose the detonative cord inserted into the priming well (<NUM>) in proximity to the at least one blasting cap (<NUM>) inserted into the priming well (<NUM>) such that initiation of the at least one blasting cap (<NUM>) will initiate detonation of the detonative cord;
the cap box (<NUM>) comprising:
a cap box housing (108a) comprising [[,]]apertures (108b) extending from a first end of the cap box housing (108a) through the cap box housing (108a), which apertures (108b) are configured to receive the at least one blasting cap (<NUM>) therein, wherein the second aperture (110c) of the housing (110a) is configured to receive the at least one blasting cap (<NUM>) received within the cap box (<NUM>).