Convertible Addressable Switch Assembly for Downhole Gun Strings
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current downhole gun strings for oil and gas operations require pre-programming of addressable switches before deployment, limiting flexibility and accuracy in selecting operational modes, as operators must forecast the needed switch types and quantities, and existing systems cannot change switch modes post-assembly without significant skill and time.
Innovation Solution
A convertible and addressable switch assembly with a processor and non-volatile memory that can change operating modes via firmware, allowing selection of different operational modes post-deployment using a telemetry system, enabling dynamic configuration of switch assemblies within the gun string.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If addressable switches are pre-programmed in hardware with specific firmware before delivery, then the switches can be configured to act as traditional switches or rapid fire switches, but the operator cannot change the operational mode after deployment without significant skill and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic configuration system where the switch assembly can change its operational mode (traditional switch, rapid fire switch, etc.) after deployment by receiving configuration commands through the telemetry system. The processor reads mode indicators from non-volatile memory and dynamically adjusts its behavior, allowing the system to adapt to different well operations without physical reprogramming or hardware changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter of the switch by introducing a mode indicator stored in non-volatile memory that the processor reads to determine how to operate. By changing the mode indicator value, the switch can transition between different operational modes (traditional, rapid fire, etc.) without altering the physical hardware or firmware, enabling flexible adaptation to different well requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of addressable switches are manufactured with different firmware, then the operator can select the appropriate switch type for each well, but the operator must forecast the needed switch types and quantities in advance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal switch assembly that can perform multiple functions by changing its operational mode through software configuration rather than hardware differentiation. A single switch design can act as a traditional switch, rapid fire switch, or other modes by simply changing the mode indicator, eliminating the need to manufacture and inventory multiple specialized switch types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a standardized switch assembly design that can be replicated and deployed universally, with the specific operational characteristics determined by the mode indicator rather than physical customization. This allows the same hardware template to serve multiple operational purposes, reducing manufacturing complexity and inventory requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the switch assembly includes a processor and non-volatile memory for storing mode indicators, then the switch can be converted between operating modes, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical hardware customization with electronic/software-based configuration. Instead of manufacturing different hardware variants for different switch types, the system uses a processor that reads mode indicators from non-volatile memory and adjusts its operation accordingly, substituting mechanical diversity with digital flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A convertible and addressable switch assembly incudes an interface (I/O) configured to connect to a controller along a telemetry system; and a processor connected to the interface (I/O). The processor is configured to receive a command from the controller, along the telemetry system, to change a first value of a mode status variable to a desired second value, wherein the first value is associated with a first operating mode of the switch assembly and the second value is associated with a second operating mode, which is different from the first operating mode; change the first value to the second value within the switch assembly; and store in a non-volatile memory, at the switch assembly, the second value of the mode status variable.