| abstract |
A shock-resistant electronic circuit assembly ( 10 ) is provided in which an electronic circuit is encased in an encapsulation ( 14 ) that engages a surrounding enclosure ( 18 ) in shock-dispersing contact therewith. The encapsulation may have a plurality of edges ( 16, 16 a , 16 b ), fins ( 24 ) or bosses ( 70 ) that bear against the enclosure. The encapsulation may include a shock-absorbing material ( 14 f ) disposed against the enclosure to protect the circuit against vibrations and a structural support material such as a casing ( 14 e ) to protect the circuit against stress. The circuit assembly ( 10 ) may be part of a sheathed initiator assembly ( 55 ) that includes a transfer member ( 58 ) for converting shock wave energy into electrical energy for the electronic circuit, and the released energy may be converted into a detonation initiation signal. Assembly ( 55 ) may be part of a detonator ( 100 ) that receives a non-electric initiation signal and detonates following the delay determined by the electronic circuit. The detonator housing ( 112 ) or an optional sleeve ( 22 ) provides an enclosure for the assembly ( 55 ). The circuit encapsulation may include one or more bushings such as O-rings ( 14 g , 14 g ′) disposed about the circuit casing ( 14 e ). |