Perforating Gun Detonation Module for Selective Firing Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing perforating tools lack efficient mechanisms for selectively firing perforating guns in a downhole tool, complicating assembly and transportation processes.
Innovation Solution
A perforating apparatus with a signal communication circuit and addressable switches that allow selective firing of perforating guns, featuring a detonation module with an end plate and passages for signal transmission and thermal coupling, enabling efficient assembly and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If switches are added to selectively fire guns in a perforating tool, then the ability to selectively fire individual guns is improved, but the complexity of assembling and transporting the tool deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the switch, initiating element, and electrical contacts into a single integrated detonation module. This merging eliminates the need for separate assembly of these components and reduces transportation complexity while maintaining selective firing capability. The module is inserted as one unit into the carrier, simplifying both assembly and logistics.
Solution Approach 2:
The perforating tool is divided into modular carriers, each containing a detonation module that can be independently assembled and tested before integration. This segmentation allows for simplified transportation of individual modules and easier assembly at the wellsite, reducing overall system complexity while enabling selective firing of individual guns.
2Extent of automation
If multiple electrical contacts and switches are integrated into the downhole tool, then selective firing control is improved, but the reliability of electrical connections in harsh downhole environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical contacts are nested within the sealed cavity of the detonation module, protected from harsh downhole environments. The initiating element is positioned within the cavity to make reliable thermal contact with the initiator assembly, while electrical connections are made through sealed interfaces that prevent contamination and maintain reliability in high-pressure, high-temperature conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a sealed cavity as an intermediary environment that isolates the electrical contacts and initiating elements from harsh downhole conditions. This sealed intermediate space protects the electrical connections while still allowing thermal energy transfer from the initiating element to the initiator assembly for reliable detonation.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the initiating element is designed to pass through a passage and make thermal contact, then the thermal coupling efficiency is improved, but the precision of positioning and alignment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The initiating element is designed with a specific local geometry that concentrates thermal energy at the contact point with the initiator assembly. The element features a distal end specifically shaped to maximize thermal contact area with the initiator, ensuring efficient energy transfer. This localized thermal coupling design compensates for tolerances in overall positioning and alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The detonation module is pre-assembled with the initiating element positioned in readiness within the cavity, but not yet engaged with the initiator assembly. This preliminary positioning allows for verification of alignment and thermal contact before final insertion into the carrier, ensuring proper engagement while maintaining manufacturing tolerances.
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
Facilitates efficient assembly and operation of perforating tools by allowing selective firing of perforating guns, ensuring fluid-tight and pressure-isolated environments, and enabling programmable control of detonation sequences.
Implementation Method 1
The initiating element is configured to electrically couple to the portion of the signal communication circuit and to thermally couple to the initiator assembly when at least partially seated in the first passage
Implementation Method 2
The addressable switch electrically couples the first electrical contact assembly to the second electrical contact assembly when seated in the second passage
Implementation Method 3
a surface signal actuates a firing head associated with the perforating gun, which then detonates the shaped charges. Projectiles or jets formed by the explosion of the shaped charges penetrate the casing
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for selectively firing a perforating gun having a plurality of gun assemblies may include an end plate, a portion of a signal communication circuit, an initiator assembly, and an initiating element. The end plate has a cavity formed by at least a first passage intersecting a second passage. The first passage extends from a planar end face of the end plate and the second passage extends from a circumferential surface of the end plate. The portion of a signal communication circuit is disposed in the end plate and conveys signals between the first gun and the second gun. The initiator assembly is at least partially disposed in the first passage. The initiating element is sized to pass through the second passage. The initiating element is also configured to electrically couple to the portion of the signal communication circuit and to thermally couple to the initiator assembly when at least partially seated in the first passage.