Disposable Perforation Tool Assembly With Snap-Fit Module Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing perforation tools for hydrocarbon wells require complex assembly at the well site, involving multiple components and tools, which complicates the process and increases the time and effort required for perforating the formation.
Innovation Solution
A perforation tool design featuring a loading tube with flexible projections and centering structures for detachable attachment of detonation and bulkhead modules, allowing for easy assembly and alignment of perforation charges, and incorporating shock-absorbing features to protect electrical components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional perforation tools are assembled at the well site, then the tool can be prepared for use, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The perforation tool is divided into separate modular components: a reusable body and disposable cartridges that contain pre-assembled explosive charges. This segmentation allows the complex explosive assembly to be pre-manufactured in a controlled environment and simply inserted into the tool body at the well site, dramatically reducing on-site assembly complexity while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The explosive charges, detonators, and associated components are pre-assembled and pre-tested in the factory as complete cartridges before being shipped to the well site. This preliminary action ensures that the complex assembly work is completed under controlled manufacturing conditions rather than in the field, reducing both assembly complexity and potential errors.
2Reliability
If traditional perforation tools are assembled at the well site, then the tool can be prepared for use, but the assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the tool into a reusable body and pre-assembled disposable cartridges, the time-consuming assembly of explosive charges is eliminated at the well site. Operators simply load pre-fabricated cartridges into the tool body, reducing assembly time from hours to minutes while ensuring proper assembly through factory pre-testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The explosive cartridges are designed as disposable single-use components that are pre-assembled in the factory. After one use, the entire cartridge is discarded and replaced with a new one, eliminating the need for time-consuming disassembly and reassembly of sensitive explosive components at the well site.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid attachment structures are used to secure components, then structural stability is improved, but shock absorption capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge housing incorporates flexible elements and compliant structures that can deform under shock loads. This flexibility allows the structure to absorb impact energy from the explosive discharge and handling shocks, protecting sensitive electronic and mechanical components while maintaining structural integrity during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates shock-absorbing features and cushioning structures within the cartridge housing that are pre-positioned to protect components during handling, transport, and upon detonation. These cushioning elements are built into the structure before use, ensuring protection without requiring active intervention.
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 quick and efficient assembly of perforation tools at the well site, reducing assembly time and protecting components from shock impacts, while maintaining electrical and ballistic continuity.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating shock-absorbing features to protect electrical components
Data Source
AI summary
A perforation tool is described herein which has a loading tube for supporting a plurality of perforation charges, the loading tube having a first end and a second end; a detonation module disposed within the loading tube and having a plastic detonator housing for enclosing a detonation component, the detonator housing having a plurality of first flexible projections that extend in an axial direction of the detonator housing and engage with the loading tube to removably attach the detonation module to the first end of the loading tube, the detonator housing having a first centering structure for centering the loading tube within the perforation tool; and a bulkhead module coupled to the second end of the loading tube, the bulkhead module comprising a bulkhead member and a bulkhead coupler, the bulkhead coupler comprising an electrical connector for making electrical connection with the bulkhead member and a plurality of second flexible projections that extend in an axial direction of the perforation tool and engage with the loading tube, along an outer surface thereof, to removably attach the bulkhead coupler to the loading tube.