Shape Memory Seal for Electronics Frame Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seal arrangements in the downhole drilling and completions industry face challenges in effectively isolating electronic components from fluids and fluid pressure without using high-temperature welding, which can damage components.
Innovation Solution
An electronics frame with a housing containing a chamber and a shape memory element that transitions from a smaller shape for positioning to a larger shape to seal the chamber, isolating electronic components from fluids when exposed to a stimulus, such as heat, eliminating the need for welding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If welding is used to seal electronic components, then sealing reliability is improved, but electronic components are damaged due to high temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the welding process (thermal/mechanical system) with a shape memory alloy sealing mechanism. The shape memory element is inserted into the chamber in a compressed state and then activated to expand and seal against the housing walls, eliminating the need for high-temperature welding while achieving reliable sealing through mechanical expansion and friction engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the shape memory alloy material, specifically its ability to change shape and volume in response to temperature or electrical stimulus. The element transitions from a compressed insertion state to an expanded sealing state, changing its physical parameters to achieve the sealing function without damaging electronic components.
2Reliability
If traditional seals are used to isolate electronic components, then fluid isolation is achieved, but the sealing mechanism is complex and difficult to install
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sealing function into a separate, independent shape memory element that can be inserted and activated independently of the housing and electronic components. This modular approach simplifies the overall sealing mechanism and facilitates easier installation compared to integrated traditional sealing systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory element performs self-service by automatically expanding and sealing against the housing walls when activated by temperature or electrical stimulus. The element self-adjusts to achieve optimal sealing contact without requiring external adjustment mechanisms or complex installation procedures.
3Ease of operation
If shape memory elements are used for sealing, then ease of installation is improved, but the sealing mechanism requires activation stimulus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the shape memory alloy material, specifically its ability to change shape and volume in response to temperature or electrical stimulus. The element transitions from a compressed insertion state to an expanded sealing state, changing its physical parameters to achieve the sealing function without damaging electronic components.
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 solution provides a reliable and damage-free sealing mechanism for electronic components, protecting them from fluids and fluid pressure while allowing for easy access and reuse of the frame by using shape memory elements that revert to their original shape when the stimulus is removed.
Implementation Method 1
a shape memory element disposed in the chamber, the shape memory element transitionable in response to a transition stimulus between a first shape permitting positioning within the chamber and a second shape sealingly engagable with the housing
Data Source
AI summary
An electronics frame for a wired pipe drill string, including a housing arranged to be disposed within the wired pipe drill string. The housing includes a chamber formed therein and one or more electronic components disposed in the chamber. A shape memory element is disposed in the chamber. The shape memory element is transitionable in response to a transition stimulus between a first shape permitting positioning within the chamber and a second shape sealingly engagable with the housing to isolate the one or more electronic components from fluid. A method of isolating an electronic component is also included.