Switch Retaining Member Integrating Through Wire and Ground
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing oil and gas extraction systems lack a reliable connection mechanism for integrating a through wire to the center pin of a switch, leading to unreliable electrical connections and potential misfires due to vibration and shock, and do not provide a reliable ground connection for detonators, which can result in inconsistent perforation of hydrocarbon formations.
Innovation Solution
A retaining member with a form factor compatible with conventional switch subs, incorporating an integrated through wire and ground wire connection to the center pin of a pressure switch, along with a secondary piston for enhanced pressure actuation, ensuring a stable electrical connection and reliable ground for detonators, eliminating the need for manual connection steps and providing modular integration with perforating guns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional switch retaining nut is used to connect the through wire to the center pin, then the assembly process is simple, but the electrical connection is unreliable under vibration and shock
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retaining nut, center pin, and electrical connection elements into a single integrated switch retaining member. The retaining member includes a threaded body with an integrated center pin that has a connection element (such as a solder cup or electrical contact) formed as part of the same piece, eliminating separate components and ensuring reliable electrical connection while maintaining simple assembly.
2Productivity
If manual connection steps are used to attach the through wire to the switch, then flexibility is maintained, but the connection process is time-consuming and prone to error
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection elements (center pin with connection element, ground wire connection points) are pre-integrated into the switch retaining member during manufacturing. This preliminary integration eliminates the need for manual wire attachment steps during assembly, allowing the through wire to be directly connected to the pre-positioned connection elements, thereby increasing assembly speed while maintaining ease of operation.
3Reliability
If separate ground wire connection is used, then electrical grounding is provided, but the ground connection is unreliable under vibration and shock
Solution Approach 1:
The ground wire connection is integrated directly into the switch retaining member structure. The retaining member includes integrated ground connection points that are firmly attached to the switch housing or mounting structure, providing a reliable ground path that moves with the assembly as a single unit, thereby maintaining reliable grounding under vibration and shock without requiring separate grounding components.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional switch subs are used, then compatibility with existing systems is maintained, but integration of through wire and ground wire is not seamless
Solution Approach 1:
The switch retaining member is designed with universal compatibility features that allow it to interface with conventional switch subs while providing integrated through wire and ground wire connections. The retaining member maintains standard mounting dimensions and thread patterns for compatibility, while internally integrating multiple wire connection functions, thereby achieving seamless integration without requiring different components for different applications.
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 stable electrical connection and ground for detonators, enhancing the consistency and efficiency of hydrocarbon perforation by preventing misfires and ensuring reliable operation under vibration and shock conditions, while simplifying the connection process and integrating seamlessly with existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
Pressure switches work by utilizing pressure shock waves generated by the detonation of perforating guns or by pressure in wellbore. The shock wave actuates an arming piston by pushing it to make contact with the proceeding detonator.
Data Source
AI summary
A wellbore select fire switch retaining member system and method with an integrated through wire and ground wire in a switch sub. The system/method includes a retaining member that has a form factor acceptable by a conventional switch sub. The retaining member incorporates an electrical connection to the center pin of a pressure switch. The system further includes a secondary piston aligned with a piston in the switch (switch piston) so that external pressure is fully acted upon the entire switch piston creating a reliable switch connection. Another system includes an integrated retaining member and switch module having a form factor compatible with existing switch subs. The integrated module inputs include a ground wire and a through wire and the outputs include a ground wire, through wire and an arming wire.