Perforating Gun Connector With Spring Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing perforating gun systems require manual assembly and electrical connection of perforating guns, which can be unsafe, unreliable, and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
An automatic electrical connection system that connects adjacent perforating guns mechanically, using a connector body with a pin and an electrical contact structure with a spring element, allowing for reliable and safe electrical communication between guns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual assembly and electrical connection of perforating guns is used, then assembly can be completed, but the process is unsafe, unreliable, and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mechanical connection function and electrical connection function into a single integrated connector assembly. The mechanical connector components (body, coupling elements) and electrical connector components (contacts, conductors) are merged into one unified structure that performs both functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate manual assembly steps and reducing overall assembly time while maintaining safety through automated engagement
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical coupling between perforating guns, establishes electrical continuity for detonator circuits, and enables automated connection. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized components for each function, reducing assembly complexity and time while improving safety through integrated operation
2Reliability
If manual electrical connection is used, then electrical continuity can be established, but the process is unreliable and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical contacts are pre-positioned and pre-aligned within the connector assembly during manufacturing. The conductor pathways are pre-routed and secured, so that when the mechanical connection is made, electrical continuity is automatically established without requiring separate manual wiring steps. This preliminary preparation ensures both reliability and speed
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical coupling action and electrical contact engagement are merged into a single operational step. The same physical connection that joins the perforating guns mechanically also establishes the electrical circuit, ensuring that electrical connection reliability is tied to the robust mechanical connection while eliminating time-consuming separate electrical assembly steps
3Productivity
If automated electrical connection is implemented, then assembly safety and efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging mechanical and electrical connection functions into a single integrated connector assembly, the patent actually reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate mechanical connectors and electrical wiring systems. The integration eliminates multiple components, interfaces, and assembly steps, making the system more efficient while the complexity is concentrated in a single specialized component rather than distributed across multiple separate systems
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 system enables safe, reliable, and efficient assembly of perforating gun strings by automatically establishing electrical connections between guns, enhancing safety and reducing assembly time.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element coupled with the contact tab for elastically deforming in response to engagement by the pin
Data Source
AI summary
A method of perforating a well that includes suspending a first perforating gun and a second perforating gun on a conveyance into a well, transmitting a signal down the conveyance, where the signal at least partially traverses the first perforating gun, a perforating gun connection, and the second perforating gun, and in response to the signal selecting the second perforating gun to fire, and firing a shaped charge in the second perforating gun, where the first perforating gun and the second perforating gun are connected via the perforating gun connection, where the perforating gun connection includes a pin which extends from the first perforating gun to a contact tab of the second perforating gun, and where a spring element, coupled with the contact tab, elastically deforms in response to the contact tab engaging with the pin.