Perforating Gun Endplate Assembly With Integrated Zero-Tension Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Perforating guns in the oil and gas industry face challenges with complex and costly manufacturing processes, lack of integrated wiring solutions, and unreliable grounding methods, leading to time-consuming and error-prone assembly procedures.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of improved endplates with flexible tube tabs and a zero-tension connector that simplifies electrical connections and grounding, reducing the need for manual wiring and snap rings, while providing secure alignment and protection for firing switches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional wiring methodologies are used in perforating guns, then installation flexibility is maintained, but reliability of electrical connections deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical wiring function with the structural endplate component. The integrated wiring system embeds electrical conductors directly into the endplate structure, eliminating separate wiring steps and manual connection procedures. This merging of functions ensures reliable electrical connections while simplifying the overall device assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated wiring system is designed to automatically establish electrical connections during the gun assembly process. The wiring infrastructure is pre-configured within the endplate, allowing the system to self-configure electrical pathways without requiring external wiring operations or manual intervention for connection establishment.
2Productivity
If multiple separate components are used in perforating guns, then functional versatility is achieved, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional components into integrated assemblies. The endplate structure combines structural support, electrical wiring infrastructure, and grounding functions into a single unified component. This reduction in component count directly accelerates assembly speed while maintaining all necessary functional capabilities through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated endplate component performs multiple functions simultaneously: providing structural closure, establishing electrical connections, ensuring grounding pathways, and facilitating mechanical assembly. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain functional versatility with fewer components, thereby improving assembly productivity.
3Ease of manufacture
If manual wiring procedures are used, then adaptability to different configurations is maintained, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated wiring system is designed to automatically adapt to different gun configurations during assembly. The pre-configured wiring infrastructure within the endplate self-adjusts to establish appropriate electrical connections based on the specific assembly configuration, eliminating the need for manual wiring adaptation while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical wiring infrastructure is pre-configured and pre-positioned within the endplate structure during manufacturing. This preliminary action allows the system to automatically adapt to different configurations during assembly without requiring costly manual wiring procedures, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while preserving adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved perforating gun with novel endplates is disclosed along with a corresponding method of assembly. The endplate may include a base with first end separated from a second end separated by a curved sidewall centered around a longitudinal axis and a set of tube tabs flexibly coupled to the base and extending from the second end. The endplate may include a carrier tab with an integrated alignment pin. Selected embodiments may also include a zero-tension connector with a sliding contact mounted within a cavity of a housing, a through-wire connected to the sliding contact. The novel endplate reduces the cost and complexity of manufacture and installation.