Downhole Sensor Shock Protection via Nested Elastomer Absorbers

Solution Overview

Problem

The reliability of sensitive electronics in downhole tools is compromised by perforating shocks due to their fragile nature, and existing shock-absorbing solutions increase the length and cost of the tool string while reducing reliability.

Innovation Solution

The use of radially and axially positioned shock absorbers made of polymers or elastomers, which compress to absorb shocks and maintain the electronics component's flexibility, allowing for a tortuous path for shock transmission and reducing direct contact with the housing, thereby minimizing damage from perforating shocks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If shock-absorbing subs are placed between sensors and perforating guns, then sensor protection from perforating shocks is improved, but the length of the string increases and reliability decreases due to extra joints and seals

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshock protectionVSAvoidstring reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The shock absorbers are nested within the existing housing structure, with radial shock absorbers positioned in recesses formed in the housing wall and axial shock absorbers positioned at the ends of the housing. This eliminates the need for separate shock-absorbing subs while providing comprehensive shock protection in multiple directions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The shock protection function is merged with the housing structure itself. The housing is designed with integrated shock absorption capabilities through recesses and positioned shock absorbers, combining structural support and shock protection into a single component rather than requiring separate shock-absorbing subs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If shock-absorbing subs are placed between sensors and perforating guns, then sensor protection from perforating shocks is improved, but the length of the string increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshock protectionVSAvoidstring length

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The shock absorbers are nested within the existing housing structure, with radial shock absorbers positioned in recesses formed in the housing wall and axial shock absorbers positioned at the ends of the housing. This eliminates the need for separate shock-absorbing subs while providing comprehensive shock protection in multiple directions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If shock-absorbing subs are placed between sensors and perforating guns, then sensor protection from perforating shocks is improved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshock protectionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The shock protection function is merged with the housing structure itself. The housing is designed with integrated shock absorption capabilities through recesses and positioned shock absorbers, combining structural support and shock protection into a single component rather than requiring separate shock-absorbing subs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The housing serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, contains the sensor, and integrates shock absorption capabilities through its design features (recesses and positioned shock absorbers). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated shock-absorbing components.

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 solution effectively attenuates shocks and vibrations, enhancing the reliability and performance of downhole electronics components by eliminating the need for additional shock-absorbing subs and buffer tubes, while maintaining the tool's efficiency in high-frequency pressure measurements.

Implementation Method 1

A first shock absorber is positioned in a recess formed in an outer surface of the body. The first shock absorber attenuates shock transferred from the housing to the body in a radial direction.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShock absorption: Damping

Implementation Method 2

A second shock absorber is positioned adjacent to the protrusion compresses in a second direction with respect to the body... A second shock absorber attenuates shock transferred from the housing to the body in an axial direction.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShock absorption: Damping

Data Source

PatentUS11215017B2Perforating shock protection for sensors

Publication Date: 2022.01.04 SCHLUMBERGER TECH CORP

AI summary

An electronics component for use downhole includes a body having an outer surface. The outer surface includes a recess and a protrusion. A first shock absorber is positioned in the recess and compresses in a first direction with respect to the body. A second shock absorber is positioned adjacent to the protrusion and compresses in a second direction with respect to the body.