Electronic Time Delay Fuse for High-Temperature Well Perforation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional well perforating systems rely on pyrotechnic time delay devices, which are temperature-dependent, leading to unreliable and complex operations, requiring multiple devices for extended delays, increasing cost and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A time delay fuse assembly with high precision timing circuitry and a power supply, protected by a housing, using a first contact pin to connect the power supply to an electronics board, transmitting digital sequences to a wire-free electronic detonator, and capable of operating at high temperatures, providing a reliable and precise timing mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pyrotechnic time delay devices are used, then time delay between initiator and detonator is achieved, but reliability deteriorates due to temperature dependence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the pyrotechnic (chemical) time delay mechanism with an electronic timing system. A microcontroller-based electronic circuit board receives the initiation signal and controls a solid-state switch to trigger the detonator after a programmed time delay. This electronic system is immune to temperature variations that affect pyrotechnic burn rates, thereby improving timing reliability while eliminating temperature dependence.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical state and operating parameters from chemical combustion (pyrotechnic) to electrical signaling (electronic). The electronic timer uses voltage signals and programmable time constants rather than chemical reaction rates, allowing precise control of the time delay parameter independent of temperature conditions.
2Duration of action of moving object
If multiple pyrotechnic devices are used for extended delays, then time delay duration is increased, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic time delay device is designed as a universal system that can provide any required time delay duration through software programming of the microcontroller. Instead of requiring multiple physical devices stacked together, a single electronic unit can be configured for different delay periods by changing program parameters, thereby reducing system complexity while extending achievable delay durations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces dynamic reconfigurability to the time delay system. The electronic circuit can be programmed with different time constants and delay sequences, allowing the same physical device to adapt to various operational requirements. This dynamic flexibility eliminates the need for multiple fixed-duration pyrotechnic devices.
3Manufacturing precision
If pyrotechnic time delay devices are used, then timing function is provided, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces pyrotechnic timing with electronic timing controlled by a microcontroller. Electronic timers use precise crystal oscillators and digital counters to achieve consistent time delays, eliminating the manufacturing variability inherent in pyrotechnic compositions. This substitution improves both manufacturing precision and timing consistency across production batches.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic timing system incorporates feedback mechanisms through the microcontroller, which can monitor the actual elapsed time and adjust for variations. This closed-loop approach ensures that the actual time delay matches the programmed value, compensating for any minor manufacturing tolerances in the electronic components and achieving high timing precision and consistency.
4Ease of operation
If explosive components are integrated in perforating systems, then functionality is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to handling risks
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the explosive system into separate functional modules: the electronic time delay unit, the initiator, and the detonator. This segmentation allows the electronic timing and control functions to be handled separately from the explosive components, reducing handling risks during assembly and operation. Each module can be tested and handled independently with appropriate safety measures.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic time delay device serves as an intermediary between the initiator and the detonator. It receives the initiation signal, processes it through a safe electronic timing mechanism, and then triggers the detonator only when the programmed delay has elapsed. This intermediary function isolates the operator from direct handling of explosive sequences, improving safety during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and a method of providing a reliable and consistent time delay in an oil and gas exploration/recovery device inserted in a bore hole is presented. The reliability and consistency of the time delay is a result of the use of electronic circuitry in determining the length of time delay. The system and method presented provide a time delay unit that is modular/commoditized, facilitating quick and easy integration of each component of the time delay unit in the field. Further, assembly and disassembly of the time delay unit is easily accomplished in the field and may be designed to operate with standard percussion and detonation elements.