Ballistic Coupling Perforating Gun Arrays
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional perforating guns are limited to a single ballistic train and lack signal redundancy, and are unable to simultaneously perforate multiple non-coaxial zones in a wellbore.
Innovation Solution
The development of perforating gun assemblies with multiple perforating guns and transfer assemblies that utilize explosive elements and ballistic energy transfer to create perforations at multiple points along a tubular, allowing for individual positioning and simultaneous perforation of selected zones with signal redundancy and non-coaxial alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional perforating guns use a single ballistic train, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability and versatility are limited due to lack of signal redundancy and inability to perforate multiple non-coaxial zones
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single ballistic train into multiple independent ballistic trains, each capable of transmitting detonation signals separately. This segmentation allows for signal redundancy where if one ballistic train fails, others can still initiate perforation, thereby improving reliability while managing complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The perforating gun assembly is designed with multiple ballistic trains that can serve different functions: some for primary detonation, others for redundancy, and additional ones for perforating multiple non-coaxial zones simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows a single device to perform multiple perforation tasks that would otherwise require separate devices
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional perforating guns are configured for single coaxial perforation, then the device complexity is minimized, but the adaptability to perforate multiple non-coaxial zones is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single coaxial (one-dimensional alignment) to multi-noncoaxial (multi-dimensional arrangement) perforation capability by positioning multiple perforating guns at different angular positions around the tubular. This dimensional change enables simultaneous perforation of multiple zones at the same elevation but different angular positions, greatly enhancing adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple perforating guns and their associated ballistic trains are nested within a single gun assembly structure that can be lowered through one wellbore. This nesting allows the system to perform multiple perforation functions (different zones, different elevations) through a single deployed unit, improving versatility without requiring multiple separate operations
3Productivity
If multiple perforating guns are positioned at different elevations, then the productivity increases, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring proper positioning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates position verification mechanisms that provide feedback on the elevation and angular positioning of each perforating gun relative to the tubular. This feedback allows operators to confirm proper placement before detonation, ensuring that guns are positioned at the correct elevations and angles for the intended perforation pattern, thereby managing the complexity of multi-elevation positioning
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
Enables precise and efficient perforation of subterranean formations by allowing individual perforating guns to be positioned at multiple points along the tubular, ensuring effective communication between the wellbore and formation, even at non-coaxial elevations, with improved signal reliability.
Implementation Method 1
detonating the first perforating explosive
Implementation Method 2
propagating a ballistic signal from the first gun assembly, across the discontinuity, to the transfer assembly
Implementation Method 3
propagating a ballistic signal though the transfer assembly to the second ballistic transfer element
Implementation Method 4
propagating a ballistic signal from the transfer assembly, across the discontinuity, to the second gun assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A method of perforating a subterranean formation may comprise: inserting into a wellbore a perforating gun assembly comprising: a first gun assembly comprising a first perforating explosive and a first ballistic transfer element; a transfer assembly comprising a second ballistic transfer element; and a second gun assembly comprising a second perforating explosive, wherein the first gun assembly and the second gun assembly are separated from the transfer assembly by a discontinuity; detonating the first perforating explosive; propagating a ballistic signal from the first gun assembly, across the discontinuity, to the transfer assembly; propagating a ballistic signal though the transfer assembly to the second ballistic transfer element; propagating a ballistic signal from the transfer assembly, across the discontinuity, to the second gun assembly; and detonating the second perforating explosive.