Addressable Switch Circuit for Downhole Initiator Integrity Testing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing downhole perforating tools lack a method to verify the integrity of initiators, such as detonators and igniters, after they are attached to switches, as there is no way to confirm if they are still usable and will function as intended once deployed downhole.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a high-impedance current path in parallel with the switching device to detect the presence of the initiator, allowing a small current to be generated and measured to determine if the initiator is closed or open circuit, using a current detection circuit and voltage isolation to ensure safety.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a high-impedance current path is added in parallel to the switching device to detect initiator presence, then the ability to detect and measure initiator integrity is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinitiator integrity verificationVSAvoidcircuit complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the initiator detection function with the existing switching device by adding a high-impedance current path in parallel. This merges the detection capability into the existing switch structure, allowing integrity verification without adding a completely separate detection system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary high-impedance current path that allows small measurement currents to flow through the initiator without triggering it. This intermediary path enables safe measurement while isolating the initiator from full switching currents through the parallel connection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If voltage isolation devices such as transistors or diodes are used to isolate the initiator from supply voltage during measurement, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinitiator misfire preventionVSAvoidisolation circuit complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses voltage isolation devices such as transistors or diodes as intermediary elements to separate the measurement circuitry from the high-voltage supply. These devices act as mediators that allow controlled current flow during measurement while preventing accidental initiation, thus enhancing safety.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the electrical circuit into isolated sections using transistors or diodes. The measurement circuit is separated from the high-voltage supply circuit, allowing independent operation and safety verification without exposing the entire system to high-voltage risks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Measurement precision

If resistance measurement capability is added to the switch, then the ability to identify faulty initiators is improved, but the ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinitiator resistance measurementVSAvoidoperational simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the resistance measurement function with the existing switch operation. The same switching device and control circuitry are used to both switch the initiator and measure its resistance, eliminating the need for separate measurement equipment and simplifying the overall operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the switch multi-functional by enabling it to perform both its primary function of firing the initiator and the secondary function of measuring initiator resistance. This universal approach allows a single device to handle multiple tasks, reducing operational complexity despite added measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This method reduces the risk of misruns by verifying the functionality of initiators before deployment, ensuring they are intact and capable of performing their intended function.

Implementation Method 1

By adding a high-impedance current path in parallel to the switching device(s) used to fire the initiator, a small current may be generated through the initiator. This current may be detected by some additional circuitry to verify the presence of the initiator.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)