Perforating Gun Inspection Tool Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring and verifying the physical dimensions and electrical properties of perforating gun segments are slow, labor-intensive, and prone to human error, which can lead to unreliable operation in downhole oil and gas well operations.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing an inspection tool that positions the perforating gun segment between connecting portions, moves a connecting portion to measure electrical properties and dimensions, and logs the results before deployment to ensure accurate and efficient verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual methods are used to measure and verify physical dimensions and electrical properties of perforating gun segments, then the process is simple to implement, but the measurement precision and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an automated inspection tool that uses electrical signals and electronic sensors to measure physical dimensions and electrical properties. The inspection tool automatically positions itself using electrical actuators and performs measurements without manual intervention, thereby improving measurement precision while managing device complexity through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection tool is designed to autonomously perform positioning, measurement, and data logging functions. The tool self-positiones between connecting portions of the perforating gun segment, automatically measures electrical properties and dimensions, and logs results without requiring continuous human operation, thereby improving both precision and operational reliability.
2Productivity
If manual inspection methods are used, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity and operational efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection tool performs all necessary measurements and verifications before the perforating gun segment is deployed to the wellbore. By conducting the inspection in advance during manufacturing or assembly, the system ensures that all components are verified prior to deployment, improving productivity by preventing delays during actual downhole operations and ensuring operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces slow manual inspection processes with an automated electronic inspection system that rapidly measures and logs multiple parameters simultaneously. This substitution dramatically increases productivity by reducing inspection time while managing device complexity through integrated automation.
3Reliability
If manual measurement methods are used, then the ease of operation is high, but the reliability and consistency of measurements are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection tool autonomously performs positioning, measurement, and data logging without requiring skilled operators. The system self-calibrates, self-positions, and automatically records results, thereby improving reliability through consistent automated measurements while reducing the operational skill level required, thus maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection tool incorporates feedback mechanisms that automatically verify measurement quality and consistency. The system monitors its own operation, detects anomalies, and ensures that all measurements meet predetermined reliability criteria before logging results, thereby improving reliability while maintaining ease of operation through automated quality control.
Data Source
AI summary
An inspection tool and associated methods for testing physical and electrical properties of a perforating gun and sending the perforating gun to a wellbore site with at least one of an electrical property and a dimension that has been previously verified. The perforating gun may be received in a perforating gun holder positioned between a first connecting portion and second connecting portion. The first connecting portion may be moved from a first position to a second position at which the at least one of the electrical property and the dimension is measured. Upon verification that the at least one of the electrical property and the dimension is within a predetermined specification, the perforating gun may be sent to the wellbore site.