Apparatus and methods for controlling and communicating with downhole devices
US8884778B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 24, 2013 |
| Grant date | Nov 11, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 24, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01V3/18
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
Apparatus and methods for controlling and communicating with one or more tools in a downhole tool string including a tractor, an auxiliary tractor tool, a logging tool, a safety sub, a release mechanism, a unit containing sensors for monitoring downhole conditions, a setting tool, and a perforating gun. Also provided are apparatus and methods for controlling and communicating with one or more perforating guns, release devices, and explosive devices in a string to be lowered into a wellbore. Control and communication are accomplished by sending signals from the surface to control switches in the control units on the tool, with redundant switches for safety, to state machines in the respective control units, “each state machine returning a signal verifying switch status to the surface. Control and power functions are accomplished with voltage of different polarities for safety.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.