Current control element based on magnetic circuit saturation

Abstract

Disclosed is a current control element (1a..1g), comprising: a first magnetic core (2a..2d), the first magnetic core forming a magnetic circuit; a coil (3), the coil being designed to generate a magnetic flux in the first magnetic core when the first magnetic core (2a..2d) is energized; and a second magnetic core (4a, 4b), the second magnetic core being arranged at a certain distance from the first magnetic core (2a..2d). In addition, a magnetic resistance conductor (5, 5a, 5b) is arranged in a first air gap (6) between the first magnetic core (2a..2d) and the second magnetic core (4a, 4b).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a current control element, which comprises: a first magnetic core, which forms a magnetic circuit; a coil, which is designed to generate magnetic flux in the first magnetic core when the first magnetic core is energized; and a second magnetic core, which is arranged at a certain distance from the first magnetic core. Background Art

[0002] In various embodiments, current control elements are known in the art, such as relays, transistor switches, thyristor switches, optocoupler switches, etc. Some provide galvanic separation, some are contactless, some have extremely steep switching characteristics, and some are suitable for extremely high currents. However, known devices are subject to various limitations and lack an extremely robust device for extremely high currents that can provide contactless galvanic separation, does not require additional electronic components, contains no moving parts, has less conduction losses, and provides a steep switching or current limiting characteristic. Summary of the invention

[0003] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved current control element. In particular, a current control element should be provided which overcomes the above limitations.

[0004] The object of the invention is solved by an arrangement as disclosed in the opening paragraph, which arrangement additionally comprises a magnetoresistive conductor arranged in a first air gap between the first magnetic core and the second magnetic core.

[0005] The current control element works as follows: when the current through the coil increases, the magnetic flux through the first magnetic core also increases. At a certain moment, the first magnetic core is saturated and the additional magnetic flux caused by the additional current through the coil flows outside the first magnetic core. The current control element is designed in a way that the additional flux is directed through the second magnetic core, so that the magnetoresistive conductor is also exposed to the magnetic field. Therefore, the resistance of the magnetoresistive conductor is changed and thus the current through the magnetoresistive conductor is changed. The magnetoresistive conductor (specifically its active part, such as its semiconductor structure) is advantageously placed in a region of high magnetic flux (i.e., high concentration of flux lines).

[0006] The point or range at which the first core saturates and the magnetic field diverges into the second core is selected in such a way that the current associated with this magnetic flux corresponds to the switching threshold or switching range of the current control element. Specifically, the nominal switching current of the current control element is at the switching threshold.

[0007] Therefore, a "nominal switching current" Inom or a "switching threshold" for the current I through the coil can generally be defined. Throughout this disclosure, the two terms can be used interchangeably. The magnetic flux is mainly present in the first magnetic core when it is below the nominal switching current Inom or the switching threshold, and diverges into the second magnetic core when it is at and above the nominal switching current Inom or the switching threshold. Therefore, there is a substantial transverse magnetic field through the reluctance conductor above the nominal switching current Inom or above the switching threshold, which affects the resistance of the reluctance conductor.

[0008] The current control element may comprise a housing having a nominal switching current Inom for the current I through the coil, or information relating to the nominal switching current Inom printed on the housing. This information may be a part number or a symbol or a color associated with a specific nominal switching current Inom.

[0009] It should be noted that there is no "binary" or "digital" exchange of the magnetic flux into the second core in the sense of all or nothing, but the change is continuous and also steep, depending on the design.

[0010] Therefore, strictly speaking, this is the range in which the first core is saturated and the magnetic field diverges into the second core. Therefore, the current control element is designed in a certain way so that the current associated with this magnetic flux corresponds to the switching range of the current control element. Specifically, the nominal switching current of the current control element is within the switching range.

[0011] The point or range at which the first magnetic core saturates can generally be influenced by selecting the material and cross section of the first magnetic core in a useful manner. Smaller cross sections and magnetic materials with lower saturation flux density lead to earlier saturation and therefore to a lower switching point or switching range.

[0012] Advantageously, the first magnetic core is designed in such a way that the portion of the first magnetic core that is saturated at the switching point or switching range is arranged near the reluctance conductor and the second magnetic core. Other portions of the first magnetic core that are saturated far above the switching point or switching range are arranged at a greater distance from the reluctance conductor and the second magnetic core. This behavior can be achieved by making the cross-section of the first magnetic core in the region close to the reluctance conductor and the second magnetic core smaller than elsewhere. Alternatively or in addition, this behavior can be achieved by using a magnetic material that has a lower saturation flux density in the region close to the reluctance conductor and the second magnetic core than elsewhere.

[0013] Specifically, the cross-section of the leg or portion of the first magnetic core arranged near the reluctance conductor and the second magnetic core can be smaller than the cross-section in the other legs of the first magnetic core or in the other portions of the first magnetic core. Alternatively or in addition, a magnetic material with a lower saturation flux density can be used for the leg or portion of the first magnetic core arranged near the reluctance conductor and the second magnetic core, and a magnetic material with a higher saturation flux density can be used in the other legs or portions of the first magnetic core.

[0014] By the above measures, a current control element having a number of advantageous features is obtained. Firstly, a galvanic separation of the control circuit and the controlled circuit can be obtained. Secondly, the current control element is contactless. And thirdly, when the control current reaches its switching threshold, the resistance of the magnetoresistive conductor increases sharply. Thus, a (binary) on / off behavior can be approximated. Furthermore, the disclosed current control element is very robust and suitable for high currents (i.e., it has a small resistance at the nominal current). Thus, the current control element is suitable for heavy-duty applications.

[0015] The first magnetic core can generally form a) a closed magnetic circuit without a second air gap, or b) an open magnetic circuit with at least one second air gap. The air gap provides the advantage that when the first magnetic core is saturated, the current through the coil flows and thus the switching threshold can be controlled. Preferably, the length of the second air gap is selected in such a way that the first magnetic core saturates when the nominal current is reached.

[0016] In this context, it is advantageous if, in case b), the first magnetic core comprises a first subsection and a separate second subsection with at least one second air gap therebetween (i.e., between the first subsection and the second subsection). The second subsection is closer to the magnetic resistance conductor and the second magnetic core than the first subsection. When the nominal current is reached, the second subsection should preferably be saturated, and the second subsection should be saturated after the first subsection, which can be achieved by designing the length of the second air gap, designing the cross-section of the first and second subsections, and / or selecting the materials of the first and second subsections. After the second subsection has been saturated, additional magnetic flux is transferred to the second magnetic core. In order to achieve the desired function, in particular, the cross-section of the second subsection can be made smaller than the cross-section of the first subsection. Alternatively or in addition, a magnetic material with a lower saturation flux density can be used for the second subsection, and a magnetic material with a higher saturation flux density can be used for the first subsection.

[0017] Further, the first magnetic core can specifically form a single-loop or multi-loop magnetic circuit. If there are a first subsection and a second subsection, the first subsection is shaped like a "U" in the case of a single loop, and is shaped like an "E" or "M" in the case of a double-loop magnetic circuit.

[0018] Advantageously, the resistance of the magnetoresistive conductor increases with increasing magnetic flux through the magnetoresistive conductor. In this way, a disconnect feature or a current limiting feature can be provided, in other words, a normally closed contact or a disconnect contact. However, in principle, the resistance of the magnetoresistive conductor can also decrease with increasing magnetic flux through the magnetoresistive conductor. In this way, a connection feature, in other words, a normally open contact or a closed contact can be provided. Typically, the resistance of the latter material is generally quite high in the absence of an applied magnetic field. In addition, if a fairly strong magnetic field is applied, the resistance change of those materials is generally within two orders of magnitude.

[0019] Further advantageous embodiments are disclosed in the claims and in the description and in the drawings.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment of the current control element, the reluctance conductor contacts the first magnetic core and the second magnetic core. This configuration achieves good heat transfer and keeps the reluctance conductor fairly cool. If the second subsection is present, the reluctance conductor specifically contacts the second subsection and the second magnetic core.

[0021] Advantageously, the reluctance of the first magnetic core (alone) is at least 10 times lower than the reluctance of the first magnetic core and the second magnetic core. In this way, the magnetic flux is mainly kept in the first magnetic core up to the switching threshold.

[0022] Advantageously, the first magnetic core and / or the second magnetic core are made of vanadium permanganate. Vanadium permanganate is a soft ferromagnetic alloy comprising cobalt (Co), iron (Fe) and vanadium (Va), in particular having a saturation flux greater than 2 Tesla. In general, the material of the first magnetic core and its cross-section should be designed in such a way that a magnetic flux up to the switching threshold can be handled without saturation or only at a low saturation. If vanadium permanganate is chosen, the cross-section of the first magnetic core can be kept small. In a similar manner, the second magnetic core and its cross-section should be designed in such a way that a magnetic flux above the switching threshold can be handled. If vanadium permanganate is chosen, the cross-section of the second magnetic core can also be kept small.

[0023] Preferably, the first subsection is made of vanadium permanganate (which has a saturation flux of about or greater than 2 Tesla) and / or the second subsection is made of mu metal (which is a nickel-iron soft ferromagnetic and has a saturation flux of about 1 Tesla) or ferrite (with a saturation flux of 0.5 Tesla or less). In addition, the second magnetic core can also be made of vanadium permanganate. These materials can well support the behavior of the first magnetic core, that is, the second subsection saturates at the nominal current and is fully saturated before the saturation effect occurs in the first subsection.

[0024] Advantageously, the magnetoresistive conductor has a semiconductor-metal hybrid structure and operates according to the extraordinary magnetoresistive effect. Extraordinary magnetoresistive (EMR) is a magnetoresistive effect that allows a change in resistance caused by the application of a magnetic field in the region of 1:10.000 and greater. The effect occurs in semiconductor-metal hybrid systems when a transverse magnetic field is applied. In the absence of a magnetic field, the magnetoresistive conductor has a low resistance. When a magnetic field is applied, the magnetoresistive conductor has a much higher resistance. Therefore, this material is suitable for the disclosed "switch" application.

[0025] In an advantageous embodiment, the current control element comprises two control terminals between which the coil is switched, and two controlled current terminals between which the magnetoresistive conductor is switched. In this way, means are formed by which the current in a first circuit containing the magnetoresistive conductor is controlled by the current in a second circuit containing the coil.

[0026] In another advantageous embodiment, the current control element comprises two automatic current limiter terminals and a series connection of a coil and a reluctance conductor switched between them. In this way, the current in the circuit can be limited. Thus, in this embodiment, the current control element becomes a "current limiting element", such as a circuit breaker.

[0027] In both embodiments, it is advantageous if the resistor is switched between the two controlled current terminals or between the two automatic current limiter terminals. In this way, the range of the total resistance variation between the controlled current terminals or between the automatic current limiter terminals can be set or influenced. Moreover, without the resistor, the electrical energy would have to be dissipated only in the magnetoresistive material, which could heat the magnetoresistive material in an undesirable manner or even destroy it. The resistor provides an alternative electrical path for the electrical (short-circuit) current.

[0028] Advantageously, the current control element has a nominal switching current Inom for the current I through the coil, wherein

[0029] - in the current range I<0.9·Inom, the magnetic flux density in the first magnetic core is at least 10 times the magnetic flux density in the second magnetic core, and wherein

[0030] In the current range I>1.1·Inom, the magnetic flux density in the second magnetic core is at least 0.5 times the magnetic flux density in the first magnetic core.

[0031] By designing the first core and the second core in a suitable manner, in particular by setting the air gap accordingly and by appropriately selecting the cross-section and the material, the magnetic flux is mainly present in the first core below the nominal switching current Inom and diverges into the second core at and above the nominal switching current Inom. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] The present invention will now be described in more detail hereinafter with reference to specific examples, however the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0033] Figure 1 A first example of a current control element having a closed first magnetic core without an air gap is shown;

[0034] Figure 2 A second example of a current control element having a resistor switched in parallel with a magnetoresistive conductor is shown;

[0035] Figure 3 An example of a current limiting element is shown;

[0036] Figure 4 A current limiting element having an air gap in a first magnetic core is shown;

[0037] Figure 5 A current limiting element having two air gaps in a first magnetic core is shown;

[0038] Figure 6 A current limiting element is shown, wherein a magnetic resistance conductor is in contact with a first magnetic core and a second magnetic core;

[0039] Figure 7 A current limiting element is shown having an M-shaped first subsection of a first magnetic core;

[0040] Figure 8 shows the magnetic flux in the current control element within a current range below the nominal switching current;

[0041] Fig. 9 The nominal switch current is shown in Figure 8 The magnetic flux in the current control element;

[0042] Fig.10 shows the magnetic flux in the current control element in a current range above the nominal switching current;

[0043] Fig.11 A first exemplary structure of a magnetoresistive conductor is shown, and

[0044] Fig.12 A second exemplary structure of a magnetoresistive conductor is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Generally, identical or similar parts are indicated by identical / similar names and reference numerals. The features disclosed in the specification apply to the parts having identical / similar names and reference numerals, respectively. Indications of orientation and relative positions (upper, lower, sideways, etc.) relate to the associated drawings, and indications of orientation and / or relative positions must be changed accordingly in the different drawings as the case may be.

[0046] Figure 1A first example of a current control element 1a is shown in a schematic side view. The current control element 1a comprises: a first magnetic core 2a, which forms a magnetic circuit; a coil 3, which is designed to generate a magnetic flux in the first magnetic core 2a when the first magnetic core 2a is energized; and a second magnetic core 4a, which is arranged at a distance from the first magnetic core 2a. In addition, the current control element 1a comprises a magnetic resistance conductor 5 arranged in a first air gap 6 between the first magnetic core 2a and the second magnetic core 4a.

[0047] The current control 1a element further has two control terminals TC1, TC2 between which the coil 3 is switched, and two controlled current terminals TCI1, TCI2 between which the magnetoresistive conductor 5 is switched. Thus, the voltage between the two control terminals TC1, TC2 generates a current through the coil 3 and, in turn, a magnetic flux in the first magnetic core 2a and also depending on the value of the current in the second magnetic core 4a. In this way, the resistance between the two controlled current terminals TCI1, TCI2 is influenced or controlled by using Figures 8 to 10 Explain in more detail.

[0048] It should be noted that the first magnetic core 2a is designed in a certain way so that the part of the first magnetic core that is saturated at the switching threshold is arranged near the magnetoresistive conductor 5 and the second magnetic core 4a. In detail, the cross-section of the lower leg of the first magnetic core 2a arranged near the magnetoresistive conductor 5 and the second magnetic core 4a is smaller than the cross-section of the other legs. Therefore, saturation occurs earlier in the lower leg than in the other legs. Because the lower leg of the first magnetic core 2a is arranged near the magnetoresistive conductor 5 and the second magnetic core 4a, the additional magnetic flux is reliably dispersed into the second magnetic core 4a and thus passes through the magnetoresistive conductor 5. Alternatively or in addition, a magnetic material with a lower saturation flux density can be used for the lower leg, and a magnetic material with a higher saturation flux density can be used for the other legs, which also leads to earlier saturation in the lower leg.

[0049] Figure 2 Shown with Figure 1 The current control element 1a is another example of a current control element 1b which is very similar to the current control element 1a. Instead, the resistor 7 switches between the two controlled current terminals TCI1, TCI2. In this way, the range of the total resistance variation between the two controlled current terminals TCI1, TCI2 can be set or influenced. In addition, the resistor 7 provides an alternative electrical path for the electrical (short-circuit) current, so that when the magnetoresistive conductor 5 cuts off the current, the electrical energy can be dissipated in the resistor 7. Therefore, undesired heating of the magnetoresistive conductor 5 can be avoided.

[0050] Figure 3 Shown with Figure 2Another example of a current control element 1c is very similar to the current control element 1b. Instead, the current control element 1c comprises two automatic current limiter terminals TLI1, TLI2 and a series connection of a coil 3 and a reluctance conductor 5 switched between them. In this way, the current in the circuit of which the current control element 1c is part can be limited. Thus, in this embodiment, the current control element 1c becomes a "current limiting element", such as a circuit breaker. Typically, the resistor 7 can be switched in parallel with the reluctance conductor 5 or not in parallel with the reluctance conductor 5.

[0051] Figure 4 Shown with Figure 3 Another example of a current control element 1d similar to the current control element 1c of FIG. 7 is shown in FIG. 1 . In contrast, there is no resistor 7, the second magnetic core 4b is shaped differently from the second magnetic core 4a (it is strip-shaped, not U-shaped), and the first magnetic core 2b does not form a closed magnetic circuit without a second air gap (case a), but an open magnetic circuit with a second air gap 8a (case b). The second air gap 8a provides the following advantage: when the first magnetic core 2b is saturated, the current through the coil 3 flows and the switching threshold can therefore be controlled. Preferably, the length of the second air gap 8a is selected in such a way that the first magnetic core 2b is saturated when the nominal current is reached.

[0052] Figure 5 Shown with Figure 4 Another example of a current control element 1e similar to the current control element 1d of FIG. 1 is shown in FIG. 1 . Instead, there are two second air gaps 8b and the first magnetic core 2c comprises a first subsection 9a and a separate second subsection 10 with a second air gap 8b in between. This is an alternative embodiment of controlling when saturation of the first magnetic core 2c begins and when the switching threshold is reached. Preferably, the length of the second air gap 8b is chosen in such a way that the second subsection 10 is saturated when the nominal current is reached. After the second subsection 10 has been saturated, additional magnetic flux is transferred into the second magnetic core 4b. Preferably, the second subsection 10 is fully saturated before any saturation effects occur in the first subsection 9a.

[0053] Figure 6 Shown with Figure 5 The current control element 1e is another example of a current control element 1f similar to the current control element 1e. Instead, the magnetoresistive conductor 5 contacts the first magnetic core 2c and the second magnetic core 4b, in detail, the second subsection 10 and the second magnetic core 4b. This configuration achieves good heat transfer and keeps the magnetoresistive conductor 5 quite cool.

[0054] Figure 7 Shown with Figure 6 Another example of a current control element 1g similar to the current control element 1f of FIG. In contrast, the first sub-portion 9b is not U-shaped but M-shaped or E-shaped. In this way, there are three regions, instead of two, where the magnetic flux passes through the magnetic resistance conductor 5. Figures 1 to 6 Compared with the embodiments shown in [reference], this can help to change the resistance of the magnetoresistive conductor 5.

[0055] Figures 8 to 10 Now, the function of the current control element 1g will be described. Figure 8 The magnetic flux in the current control element 1g is shown in the current range below the nominal switching current I < INom or below the switching threshold. As can be seen, the flux lines are concentrated in the first magnetic core 9b, and there is no significant magnetic flux in the magnetoresistive conductor 5 and the second magnetic core 4b.

[0056] Fig. 9 The magnetic flux in the current control element 1g is shown at the nominal switching current I = INom or at the switching threshold. As can be seen, the flux lines are still concentrated in the first magnetic core 9b, and the magnetic flux only diverges to a small extent into the magnetoresistive conductor 5 and the second magnetic core 4b.

[0057] Fig.10 Finally, the magnetic flux in the current control element 1g is shown in the current range above the nominal switching current I > INom or above the switching threshold. As can be seen, the flux lines diverge to a considerable extent into the magnetoresistive conductor 5 and the second magnetic core 4b. Specifically, a large number of flux lines pass through the magnetoresistive conductor 5.

[0058] It should be noted that Figures 8 to 10 the function described above is similar to Figures 1 to 7 the functions of all the embodiments shown in [reference] or is equivalent to Figures 1 to 7 the functions of all the embodiments shown in [reference]. This is the reason why the technical teachings disclosed in the context of [reference] and hereinafter apply to Figures 8 to 10 all the embodiments shown in [reference]. Figures 1 to 7

[0059] To support or provide the behavior described above, the magnetic resistance of the first magnetic cores 2a..2d (individually) is preferably at least 10 times lower than the magnetic resistance of the first magnetic cores 2a..2d and the second magnetic cores 4a, 4b. In this way, the magnetic flux mainly remains within the first magnetic cores 2a..2d until the nominal switching current I > INom or until the switching threshold.

[0060] To support or provide the above behavior,

[0061] - In the current range I < 0.9·INom, the magnetic flux density in the first magnetic cores 2a..2d is preferably at least 10 times the magnetic flux density in the second magnetic cores 4a, 4b, and

[0062] . In the current range I > 1.1·INom, the magnetic flux density in the second magnetic cores 4a, 4b is preferably at least 0.5 times the magnetic flux density in the first magnetic cores 2a..2d.

[0063] By designing the first magnetic core 2a..2d and the second magnetic core 4a, 4b in a suitable manner, in particular by setting the air gaps 8a, 8b accordingly and by selecting the cross-section and material of the first magnetic core 2a..2d, the magnetic flux is mainly present in the first magnetic core 2a..2d below the nominal switching current Inom and is diverged into the second magnetic core 4a, 4b at or above the nominal switching current Inom. It should be noted that there is no "binary" exchange of the magnetic flux into the second magnetic core 4a, 4b in the sense of all or nothing, but depending on Figures 1 to 10 In the design described in , the change is continuous and also steep.

[0064] As mentioned before, the desired behavior can be achieved by choosing appropriate cross-sections of the first subsection 9b and the second subsection 10. Figures 8 to 10 In the example of , the cross section of the second subsection 10 is smaller than the cross section of the first subsection 9b. Therefore, the second subsection 10 is fully saturated before any saturation effects occur in the first subsection 9a.

[0065] Advantageously, the first magnetic core 2a..2d and / or the second magnetic core 4a, 4b are made of vanadium perominder alloy. Generally, the material of the first magnetic core 2a..2d and its cross section should be designed in such a way that a magnetic flux up to the switching threshold can be processed. If vanadium perominder alloy is chosen, the cross section of the first magnetic core 2a..2d can be kept small. In a similar manner, the second magnetic core 4a, 4b and its cross section should be designed in such a way that a magnetic flux above the switching threshold can be processed. If vanadium perominder alloy is chosen, the cross section of the second magnetic core 4a, 4b can also be kept small.

[0066] Preferably, the first subsection 9a, 9b is made of vanadium permend alloy and / or the second subsection 10 is made of mu metal, which is a nickel-iron soft iron magnetic alloy. In addition, the second magnetic core 4a, 4b can also preferably be made of vanadium permend alloy. This material selection supports the behavior of the first magnetic core 2c, 2d in such a way that the second subsection 10 is saturated at the nominal current Inom and the second subsection 10 is fully saturated before any saturation effects occur in the first subsection 9a, 9b.

[0067] The current control element 1a..1f may generally comprise a housing (not shown in the figure) having a nominal switching current Inom for the current I through the coil 3, or information relating to the nominal switching current Inom printed on the housing. This information may be a part number or a symbol or a color associated with a specific nominal switching current Inom.

[0068] Advantageously, the magnetoresistive conductor 5 has a semiconductor-metal hybrid structure and operates according to the extraordinary magnetoresistive effect. Extraordinary magnetoresistive (EMR) is a magnetoresistive effect that allows a change in resistance caused by applying a magnetic field in the region of 1:10.000 and greater. The effect occurs in a semiconductor-metal hybrid system when a transverse magnetic field is applied. In the absence of a magnetic field, the magnetoresistive conductor 5 has a low resistance. When a magnetic field is applied, the magnetoresistive conductor 5 has a much higher resistance. Therefore, this material is very suitable for "switch" applications. Specifically, a disconnect feature or a current limiting feature can be provided, in other words, a normally closed contact or a disconnect contact.

[0069] In principle, however, the resistance of the magnetoresistive conductor 5 can also decrease with increasing magnetic flux through the magnetoresistive conductor 5. In this way, a switch-on feature can be provided, in other words a normally open contact or a closed contact.

[0070] Fig.11 A first exemplary structure of a magnetoresistive conductor 5a is shown in cross section. Between the two controlled current terminals TCI1, TCI2 (or between the two automatic current limiter terminals TLI1, TLI2), the magnetoresistive conductor 5a comprises alternating negatively doped layers N+ and highly negatively doped layers N++, wherein metal portions M are embedded in the highly negatively doped layers N++.

[0071] exist Fig.12 In an alternative embodiment of the magnetoresistive conductor 5b shown in FIG, a positively doped layer P+ is present between the negatively doped layer N+ and the highly negatively doped layer N++.

[0072] It should be noted that features of one embodiment may be applied to another embodiment, as appropriate. For example, resistor 7 may be Figures 1 to 7 Further, the current control function and the current limiting function are independent of the specific design of the magnetic circuit, but depend on whether the coil 3 and the magnetic resistance conductor 5 are switched in series.

[0073] It should also be noted that the term "comprising" does not exclude other elements, and the use of the article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Elements described in connection with different embodiments may also be combined. It should also be noted that the reference signs of the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0074] Reference numerals list

[0075] 1a..1g Current Control Element

[0076] 2a..2d First core

[0077] 3 Coils

[0078] 4a, 4b Second magnetic core

[0079] 5.5a,5b Magnetoresistive conductor

[0080] 6 First air gap

[0081] 7 Resistors

[0082] 8a, 8b Second air gap

[0083] 9a, 9b first subsection of the first magnetic core

[0084] 10 The second subsection of the first magnetic core

[0085] I Current

[0086] Inom Nominal current

[0087] TC1, TC2 control terminals

[0088] TCI1, TCI2 controlled current terminals

[0089] TLI1, TLI2 automatic current limiter terminals

[0090] N+ negatively doped layer

[0091] N++ High Negative Doping Layer

[0092] M Metal part

[0093] P+ positive doping layer

Claims

1. A current control element (1a..1g), comprising: - a first magnetic core (2a..2d), said first magnetic core forming a magnetic circuit; - a coil (3) designed to generate a magnetic flux in the first magnetic core (2a..2d) when the first magnetic core (2a..2d) is energized; and - a second magnetic core (4a, 4b) arranged at a distance from the first magnetic core (2a..2d), It is characterized in that - a magnetoresistive conductor (5, 5a, 5b) is arranged in a first air gap (6) between the first magnetic core (2a..2d) and the second magnetic core (4a, 4b), wherein, during operation, additional magnetic flux after saturation of the first magnetic core (2a..2d) is directed through the second magnetic core (4a, 4b), thereby exposing the magnetic resistance conductor (5, 5a, 5b) to a magnetic field; and two control terminals (TC1, TC2) between which the coil (3) is switched and two controlled current terminals (TCI1, TCI2) between which the magnetic resistance conductor (5, 5a, 5b) is switched; or Two automatic current limiter terminals (TLI1, TLI2) and a series connection of the coil (3) and the reluctance conductor (5, 5a, 5b) switched therebetween.

2. The current control element (1a..1g) according to claim 1, characterized in that The first magnetic core (2a..2d) forms a) a closed magnetic circuit without a second air gap (8a, 8b), or b) an open magnetic circuit with at least one second air gap (8a, 8b).

3. The current control element (1a..1g) according to claim 2, characterized in that In case b), the first magnetic core (2a..2d) comprises a first sub-portion (9a, 9b) and a separate second sub-portion (10) with the at least one second air gap (8a, 8b) therebetween.

4. The current control element (1a..1g) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The magnetic resistance conductor (5, 5a, 5b) contacts the first magnetic core (2a..2d) and the second magnetic core (4a, 4b).

5. The current control element (1a..1g) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The magnetic resistance of the first magnetic core (2a..2d) is at least 10 times lower than the magnetic resistance of the first magnetic core (2a..2d) and the second magnetic core (4a, 4b) combined.

6. The current control element (1a..1g) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The first magnetic core (2a..2d) and / or the second magnetic core (4a, 4b) are made of vanadium permünder alloy.

7. The current control element (1a..1g) according to claim 3, characterized in that The first sub-portion (9a, 9b) is made of vanadium permend alloy and / or the second sub-portion (10) is made of mu metal, which is a nickel-iron soft ferromagnetic alloy.

8. The current control element (1a..1g) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The resistance of the magnetoresistive conductor (5, 5a, 5b) increases as the magnetic flux passing through the magnetoresistive conductor (5, 5a, 5b) increases.

9. The current control element (1a..1g) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The magnetoresistive conductor (5, 5a, 5b) has a semiconductor-metal hybrid structure and operates according to the extraordinary magnetoresistive effect.

10. The current control element (1a..1g) according to claim 1, characterized in that A resistor (7) switches between the two controlled current terminals (TCI1, TCI2).

11. The current control element (1a..1g) according to claim 1, characterized in that A resistor (7) switches between the two automatic current limiter terminals (TLI1, TLI2).

12. The current control element (1a..1g) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The nominal switching current Inom for the current I through the coil (3) is, - In the current range I<0.9 Inom, the magnetic flux density in the first magnetic core (2a..2d) is at least 10 times the magnetic flux density in the second magnetic core (4a, 4b), and wherein In the current range I>1.1 Inom, the magnetic flux density in the second magnetic core (4a, 4b) is at least 0.5 times the magnetic flux density in the first magnetic core (2a..2d).

13. The current control element (1a..1g) according to claim 12, characterized in that The housing has the nominal switching current Inom for the current I through the coil (3), or information relating to the nominal switching current Inom printed on the housing.

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