Self-Locking Alignment Fixture for Perforation Charge Tubes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing perforation tool assemblies for wellbores require complex and time-consuming procedures for securing charge tubes and alignment fixtures, often necessitating tools and screws, which can lead to inefficiencies in assembly and disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A self-locking alignment fixture with integrated alignment fingers and openings that toollessly secure charge tubes within the gun body, eliminating the need for screws and enabling tool-free installation and centralization of charge tubes, utilizing a snap ring mechanism for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional screws and tools are used to secure charge tubes, then reliable fixation is achieved, but assembly and disassembly become time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment fixture incorporates a self-locking mechanism where the fixture automatically secures the charge tube without requiring external tools or screws. The fixture's design allows it to lock onto the charge tube through its own structural features, enabling tool-free assembly and disassembly while maintaining reliable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention removes the need for separate screws and fastening tools by integrating the locking function directly into the alignment fixture itself. The fixture is designed to self-secure the charge tube through built-in engagement features, eliminating auxiliary fastening components and simplifying the overall assembly process.
2Reliability
If multiple screws and fasteners are used to secure charge tubes, then secure positioning is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment fixture combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: alignment, positioning, and locking. Instead of using separate screws, washers, and clamps, the fixture incorporates all these functions through its unified design with integrated engagement features that securely hold the charge tube in place.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment fixture serves multiple purposes simultaneously: it aligns the charge tube during insertion, positions it centrally within the gun body, and locks it securely in the final position. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized fastening components.
3Reliability
If traditional fastening methods are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment fixture automatically performs the attachment function through its self-locking design, eliminating the need for operators to manually install screws or use fastening tools. The fixture secures itself to the charge tube through its own structural features, dramatically improving assembly speed while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment fixture is pre-designed with integrated locking features that engage automatically during the insertion process. The self-locking mechanism is built into the fixture's structure before assembly, allowing the charge tube to be secured through a simple insertion and rotation motion without requiring subsequent fastening steps.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods used in perforation tool assemblies and more particularly charge tubes and self-locking alignment fixtures. The perforation tool assembly comprises an alignment fixture having a plurality of slots and a charge tube having a plurality of protrusions on an end of the charge tube that engage the plurality of slots on the alignment fixture. The perforation tool assembly can also include an alignment finger on an outer edge of the alignment fixture that aligns the charge tube radially with respect to a gun body. The alignment fixture can be formed of steel or a powdered metal. The slots on the alignment fixture can be formed by water-jet cutting, machining, molding, or casting. A plurality of charges can be disposed within the charge tube once assembled. The alignment finger on the alignment fixture can engage a milled slot on an interior surface of the gun body.