One-Click Detonator for Perforating Guns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional perforating gun systems face risks of miswiring and accidental firing due to manual electrical connections, which can lead to detonator misfires and safety hazards, especially under violent shock conditions during well operations.
Innovation Solution
A detonator system with a one-click connecting mechanism that establishes both mechanical and electrical connections without splices, using a casing with distinct conducting and insulating portions and clips to ensure reliable contact, eliminating the need for external wires and reducing the risk of electrical disconnects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual electrical connections are used to connect detonators to wireline, then the system can be assembled and operated, but miswiring and accidental firing risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical wire splicing with an automated electrical connection system. The detonator housing contains integrated electrical contacts that automatically establish electrical connection when the detonator is inserted into the gun, eliminating the need for manual wire handling and splicing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the electrical connection function directly into the detonator housing structure. The housing includes integrated electrical contacts that combine mechanical support and electrical connectivity functions, eliminating separate wiring components and reducing connection points where failures can occur.
2Ease of manufacture
If wire splicing is used to connect detonators, then electrical connections can be established, but the risk of accidental firing during assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wire splicing process with an automated electrical contact system. Electrical connections are established through spring-loaded contacts or conductive elements integrated into the housing, which automatically engage when the detonator is inserted, eliminating the need for manual wire manipulation during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical contacts are pre-positioned and pre-configured within the detonator housing during manufacturing. The connection geometry and electrical pathways are established in advance, so that during field assembly, the operator simply needs to insert the detonator without performing any electrical connection tasks.
3Adaptability or versatility
If external wires are used to connect detonators, then flexibility in connection is achieved, but the risk of electrical disconnects under shock conditions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrical connection function directly into the detonator housing structure. The housing includes integrated electrical contacts that combine mechanical support and electrical connectivity functions, eliminating separate wiring components that could disconnect under shock conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs spring-loaded electrical contacts or flexible conductive elements within the housing that can accommodate shock and vibration while maintaining reliable electrical connection. The spring mechanism provides continuous contact pressure that compensates for movement caused by external shocks.
4Productivity
If manual wire connection is used, then the system can be assembled, but misfires due to poor electrical contact may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual wire splicing with an automated electrical contact system. The housing contains spring-loaded contacts or conductive elements that automatically establish reliable electrical connection upon insertion, eliminating the variability and potential for poor contact associated with manual wire connections.
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 solution provides a reliable and safe wireless connection for detonators, ensuring consistent firing of shaped charges and reducing the risk of misfires and safety hazards, even under shock conditions, by maintaining electrical contact through a secure mechanical and electrical connection.
Implementation Method 1
a casing with distinct conducting and insulating portions and clips to ensure reliable contact
Implementation Method 2
a casing with distinct conducting and insulating portions and clips to ensure reliable contact
Data Source
AI summary
A detonator for initiating a firing of a shaped charge in a gun is configured to include a housing having first and third conducting portions and a second insulating portion, which is sandwiched between the first and third conducting portions; an initiator located fully inside the first conducting portion or the third conducting portion; a first electrical line electrically connecting the initiator to an internal wall of the third conducting portion; and a second electrical line electrically extending from the initiator to the first conducting portion, through the entire second insulating portion.