Modular Perforating Gun with Pre-Wired Initiator
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for assembling and deploying perforating guns in oilfields are time-consuming and prone to human error, mis-wiring, and safety risks due to the need for manual connection of electrical components, which compromises reliability and safety.
Innovation Solution
A modular perforating gun design with a pre-wired initiator assembly module, centralizing members, and a modular feedthrough assembly that enhances secure electrical connectivity and reduces manual assembly requirements, allowing for safer and more reliable deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual assembly and wiring of initiator components is performed at the oilfield, then the gun can be assembled with necessary components, but the process is time-consuming and prone to human error and mis-wiring
Solution Approach 1:
The initiator assembly module combines multiple separate components (initiator, electrical connections, mounting structure) into a single pre-assembled unit. This module can be installed as one piece into the loading tube, eliminating the need for manual wiring and assembly at the oilfield, thereby reducing both time and potential errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The initiator assembly module is pre-assembled and pre-wired in a controlled manufacturing environment before delivery to the oilfield. All electrical connections and component placements are completed beforehand, ensuring proper wiring and reducing on-site assembly time and potential for human error.
2Productivity
If the gun is delivered fully assembled with initiator, then deployment is faster, but transport safety is compromised due to DOT regulations
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate modules: the initiator assembly module and the gun body (carrier with shaped charges). The initiator module can be transported separately and safely attached to the gun at the oilfield, allowing faster deployment while maintaining transport safety compliance.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading tube serves as an intermediary component that receives and secures the initiator assembly module. This modular interface allows the initiator to be safely transported separately and then quickly integrated with the gun body at the deployment location.
3Ease of operation
If multiple manual electrical connections are made at the oilfield, then the initiator can be connected to the gun, but the risk of mis-wiring and accidental detonation increases
Solution Approach 1:
All electrical connections are merged into the pre-assembled initiator assembly module. The module contains pre-established electrical pathways from the initiator through the loading tube to the shaped charges, eliminating multiple manual connection points and reducing the risk of mis-wiring or accidental detonation.
4Loss of time
If the initiator assembly module is pre-wired, then assembly time is reduced, but the complexity of the module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex initiator assembly is segmented into a self-contained module that handles all electrical connections internally. While the module itself is complex, it interfaces with the rest of the system through a simple, standardized connection point, reducing the overall system assembly complexity and time.
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
The modular design streamlines the assembly process, reduces the risk of mis-wiring and accidental detonation, and ensures a more reliable and user-friendly operation, enhancing safety and efficiency in both transportation and downhole applications.
Implementation Method 1
an explosive pellet of compressed material is provided in a casing and may be individually loaded into the gun as a shaped charge. Thus, once detonated, each shaped charge may perform similar to a ballistic jet in forming an adjacent perforation
Implementation Method 2
once detonated, each shaped charge may perform similar to a ballistic jet in forming an adjacent perforation
Implementation Method 3
The loading tube includes a shock absorbing mount with shaped charges to one side of the mount
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments may take the form of a perforating gun of modular assembly. The perforating gun may include at least one centralizing member at an interface between a loading tube and a carrier. Among modular components, the gun may also include an initiator assembly module that is electrically coupled to a modular feedthrough with a connector. The insert and the centralizing member may enhance axial cohesiveness of the modular gun. A shock absorbing mount may be located within the carrier and may receiving the initiator assembly module to provide added axial cohesiveness to the modular gun.