Well Stimulation Device Capacitive Charging Circuit State Diagnosis

The patent segments the charging circuit into two distinct paths: a first charging path through the stimulation head for state monitoring, and a second charging path bypassing the stimulation head for rapid charging. This segmentation allows the system to achieve both monitoring capability and charging efficiency without compromising either function.

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the charging current flowing through the stimulation head during the first charging path provides real-time information about the stimulation head's state. By monitoring parameters such as charging current, voltage, or power consumption during the charging process, the system can detect changes in the stimulation head's condition (e.g., fluid leakage, electrode damage) and provide feedback to surface operations without requiring the tool to be retrieved.

The patent incorporates a second discharge path connected in parallel with the stimulation head before any damage can occur. This preliminary configuration ensures that if the stimulation head becomes damaged or its impedance increases, the capacitive element can still discharge through the second path, maintaining a minimum discharge current. The second discharge path acts as a pre-established backup that automatically engages when needed.

The patent performs preliminary monitoring of the stimulation head's state during the charging phase before the spark-gap switches to the discharge state. By measuring charging current, voltage, or power consumption during the charging path operation, the system gathers diagnostic information about the stimulation head's condition prior to switching, enabling state detection without compromising the rapid switching capability of the spark-gap.