Modular Perforating Gun with Addressable Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for perforating subterranean wellbores require multiple trips to set sealing devices and perforate, increasing time and costs, as they often necessitate separate tools for each operation.
Innovation Solution
A modular perforating gun system with a tubular outer sleeve and multiple separate perforating modules, each equipped with a shaped charge and a uniquely addressable switch, allowing for sequential detonation of shaped charges within the wellbore using a single tool string.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate tools are used for setting sealing devices and perforating, then each operation can be performed reliably, but the overall operational time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sealing device setting tool and perforating gun into a single integrated tool string that can be deployed in one trip. The outer sleeve houses both the setting tool and multiple perforating modules, allowing simultaneous or sequential operation of both functions without requiring separate tool deployments.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated tool string performs multiple functions: it can set sealing devices (packers) at different zones while also containing and firing perforating modules to create perforation channels. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized tools for each operation.
2Reliability
If multiple separate tools are deployed, then each tool can be optimized for its specific function, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested configuration where multiple perforating modules are housed within the central passage of the outer sleeve. Each perforating module contains its own shaped charge and detonator assembly, nested within the unified tool string structure. This nesting allows multiple functional units to coexist in a compact, organized manner.
Solution Approach 2:
The perforating function is divided into multiple separate modules, each with its own shaped charge and detonator, allowing independent control and firing sequences. This segmentation enables selective activation of specific perforation zones while maintaining a unified tool string structure.
3Productivity
If sequential detonation of multiple shaped charges is implemented, then precise control over perforation timing is achieved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical timing mechanisms with an electrical control system using uniquely addressable switches. Each perforating module has a switch that can be individually addressed via electrical signals transmitted through the tool string, enabling precise sequential control without complex mechanical timing devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system uses feedback from the uniquely addressable switches to track which perforating modules have been fired and their positions. This feedback mechanism enables the control system to manage sequential detonation reliably, ensuring proper timing and preventing accidental activation of multiple modules.
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 simultaneous setting of sealing devices and perforation in a single trip, reducing operational time and costs by allowing selective and sequential detonation of perforating modules, thereby improving efficiency and reducing the complexity of tool deployment.
Implementation Method 1
each perforating module comprises a shaped charge and a uniquely addressable switch configured to detonate the shaped charge in response to receiving a firing signal addressed to the switch
Data Source
AI summary
A perforating gun deployable in a wellbore as part of a tool string includes an outer sleeve including a generally tubular wall structure having an outer peripheral surface, opposite ends thereof and a central passage therethrough extending from one end to the other end and further including a connection at each end to connect to other tools in the tool string, and a plurality of separate perforating module installed within the central passage of the outer sleeve, wherein each perforating module includes a shaped charge and a uniquely addressable switch configured to detonate the shaped charge in response to receiving a firing signal addressed to the switch.