Stimulus-Activated Detonator Switch for Precise Timing Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional detonators lack precise control over activation timing and stimuli, which hinders optimal downhole operations involving explosive devices.
Innovation Solution
A detonator assembly comprising a power source, an initiator, and a switch with a trigger input that can receive various stimuli such as clock-based, pressure, light, acoustic, vibration, or electromagnetic signals, allowing for precise activation of explosive devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional detonators are used, then the device structure is simple, but the activation timing and stimulus control are imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The detonator is divided into distinct functional modules: a power source (capacitor), a switch assembly with trigger input, and an initiator. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, with the switch assembly providing precise stimulus control while the other components maintain structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
A switch assembly is introduced as an intermediary component between the power source and initiator. This switch receives external stimuli (acoustic, electromagnetic, mechanical, or chemical) and controls the timing and delivery of electrical energy to the initiator, enabling precise activation control without requiring complex direct coupling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple stimulus types are supported, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch assembly is designed with multi-functional capability to respond to multiple types of stimuli (acoustic, electromagnetic, mechanical, or chemical) through a single unified structure. This universal design allows the same component to adapt to different activation methods without requiring separate specialized switches for each stimulus type.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch assembly incorporates dynamic response characteristics, allowing it to react to different types of stimuli through variable impedance or threshold mechanisms. This dynamic behavior enables the single switch structure to adapt its response based on the type of stimulus received, maintaining versatility while avoiding the need for multiple static switch designs.
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 precise and controlled activation of explosive devices, enhancing the effectiveness of downhole operations by providing flexible and reliable initiation methods.
Implementation Method 1
The power source comprises a capacitor. The capacitor is charged to a voltage greater than a firing voltage of the initiator.
Implementation Method 2
The switch has a trigger input to receive a stimulus to activate the switch. The stimulus comprises at least one of a clock-based stimulus, a pressure stimulus, a light stimulus, an acoustic stimulus, a vibration stimulus, or an electromagnetic stimulus.
Data Source
AI summary
A detonator assembly for initiating an explosive comprises a power source, an initiator, and a switch coupled between the power source and initiator. The switch has a trigger input responsive to a stimulus to activate the switch, where activation of the switch causes electrical energy to be provided to the initiator. The stimulus comprises at least one of a clock-based stimulus, a pressure stimulus, a light stimulus, an acoustic stimulus, and a vibration stimulus.