Switches for use in tools
US6385031B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 23, 1999 |
| Grant date | May 7, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 23, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF42B3/198
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A switch for use in various applications, including downhole applications, includes a first conductor and a second conductor and an insulator electrically isolating the first and second conductors. A device responsive to an applied voltage generates a plasma to perforate through the insulator to create an electrically conductive path between the first and second conductors. In another arrangement, a switch includes conductors and at least one element separating the conductors. The at least one element is adapted to electrically isolate the conductors in one state and to change characteristics in response to an applied voltage to provide an electrically conductive path between the conductors. Other types of switches may include electromechanical or mechanical elements.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.