Snap-Fit Perforating Gun Detonator for Wiring-Free Ignition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current detonators for perforating gun assemblies require manual wiring and connection of leg wires, which are prone to failure in harsh field conditions, necessitating a more reliable and easy-to-assemble detonator design.
Innovation Solution
A detonator cartridge with a tubular body and terminal configured for snap-fit or friction-fit insertion into a compartment within the charge tube, allowing electrical communication with an addressable switch without manual wiring, using a conductive terminal and ground wire for secure connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual wiring and connection of leg wires is used, then assembly flexibility is maintained, but reliability deteriorates due to wire failure in harsh field conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrical connection function into the detonator body itself by providing conductive elements (terminals, contacts, or conductive pathways) that are integral to the detonator structure. This eliminates separate wiring components and manual connection operations, thereby improving reliability while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The detonator is designed to be self-contained with built-in electrical connection mechanisms that automatically establish electrical contact when inserted into the charge tube compartment. The conductive terminals or contacts within the detonator body self-align and connect with corresponding contacts in the charge tube, eliminating the need for manual wiring operations.
2Ease of operation
If manual wiring is required, then assembly customization is possible, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex assembly procedures in challenging field conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection features are pre-integrated into the detonator body during manufacturing. Conductive terminals, contacts, or conductive pathways are built into the detonator structure before delivery to the job site, eliminating the need for manual wiring operations in the field and simplifying assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The detonator is designed as a modular unit with integrated electrical connection features that are separate from but compatible with the charge tube compartment. This segmentation allows the detonator to be pre-assembled with electrical features, then simply inserted into the charge tube without requiring complex field assembly or customization.
3Reliability
If conductive terminal with snap-fit or friction-fit insertion is used, then reliability improves by reducing wire failure, but device complexity increases due to precise fit requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs snap-fit or friction-fit mechanical features with optimized dimensional parameters that provide reliable electrical connection without requiring excessive precision. The fit parameters are designed to ensure proper contact while allowing for normal manufacturing tolerances and field assembly variations.
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
Enables reliable and efficient ignition of detonator cords in perforating gun assemblies, reducing the risk of wire failure and simplifying assembly in challenging field conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A conductive terminal and ground wire for secure connection
Implementation Method 2
an explosive charge material below the post
Data Source
AI summary
A detonator for a perforating gun. The detonator is used to ignite a detonator cord in a charge tube for a perforating gun assembly, which in turn is used for perforating a wellbore. The detonator includes a cartridge. The cartridge comprises a tubular body having a first end; and a second end. Preferably, the tubular body is fabricated from a metallic material. The detonator also comprises a post proximate the first end of the tubular body. The post is configured to be in electrical communication with a first leg wire connected to an addressable switch. Alternatively, the post is in contact with the end of a detonation pin. The detonator also has a fuse head within the bore of the tubular body, and a fuse wire. The fuse head is in contact with the explosive charge material. The detonator is releasably snapped into a compartment located within the charge tube.