Current sensor

Abstract

There is provided a current sensor assembly comprising a first substrate or PCB comprising two current measuring coils and a second substrate or PCB comprising at least one current measuring coil. Arrangement across multiple substrates or PCBs allows for close placement of current carrying conductors, thereby reducing the overall size of the assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to current sensors, and in particular to current sensors implemented on printed circuit boards. Background Art

[0002] Current sensors detect and measure the current passing through a conductor. They are used in many different applications, for example, to provide accurate current measurement in utility meters.

[0003] Rate of change current sensors, such as Rogowski coils, do not require any physical connection to the current carrying conductor and are therefore isolated from the current carrying conductor without any further isolation components. Rate of change current sensors include a current measuring coil that detects changes in the magnetic field generated by the current carrying conductor. Current measuring coils can take up a lot of space around the current carrying conductor, so a compact improved system is needed. Summary of the invention

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a current sensor assembly is provided, comprising: a first substrate, comprising: a first hole for receiving a first current-carrying conductor passing through the first hole at an angle perpendicular to a surface of the first substrate; a first current measuring coil formed on the first substrate, the first current measuring coil being arranged around a circumference of the first hole; a second hole for receiving a second current-carrying conductor passing through the second hole at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate; a second current measuring coil formed on the first substrate, the second current measuring coil being arranged around a circumference of the second hole; and a first opening located between the first hole and the second hole, wherein the first opening is located between the first hole and the second hole, wherein the first opening is used to receive a third current-carrying conductor passing through the first opening at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate; and a second substrate, comprising: a third hole for receiving a third current-carrying conductor passing through the third hole at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the second substrate; and a third current measuring coil formed on the second substrate, the third current measuring coil being arranged around a circumference of the third hole.

[0005] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a current measurement system, comprising: a first substrate, comprising: a first hole; a first current measurement coil formed on the first substrate around the first hole; a second hole; a second current measurement coil formed on the first substrate around the second hole; a first opening; a second substrate, comprising: a third hole; a third current measurement coil formed on the second substrate around the third hole; a first current-carrying conductor; a second current-carrying conductor; a third current-carrying conductor; and wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are aligned so that the first current-carrying conductor passes through the first hole, the second current-carrying conductor passes through the second hole, and the third current-carrying conductor passes through the first opening and the third hole.

[0006] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a current measurement system, comprising: a first substrate, comprising: a first hole; a first current measurement coil formed on the first substrate, the first current measurement coil being arranged around the circumference of the first hole; a second hole; a second current measurement coil formed on the first substrate, the second current measurement coil being arranged around the circumference of the second hole; a first opening located between the first hole and the second hole; and a second substrate, comprising: a third hole; a third current measurement coil formed on the second substrate, the third current measurement coil being arranged around the circumference of the third hole; a fourth hole; a fourth current measurement coil formed on the second substrate, the fourth current measurement coil being formed on the second substrate, the fourth current measurement coil being arranged around the circumference of the fourth hole; a second opening located between the third hole and the fourth hole; and wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are positioned such that the first opening is aligned with the third hole, and the second opening is aligned with the second hole.

[0007] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for installing a current-carrying conductor in a current sensor assembly, the current sensor assembly comprising: a first substrate and a second substrate, the first substrate comprising a first opening, and the second substrate comprising a first hole, wherein the first opening is a rectangular opening having a first width and a first length, wherein the first width is less than the first length, the method comprising: passing the current-carrying conductor through the first opening of the first substrate, the first end of the current-carrying conductor having a rectangular cross-section having a second width and a second length, wherein the second width is less than the second length, wherein the current-carrying conductor passes through the first opening in a first direction such that the first length is aligned with the second length (i.e., substantially parallel); passing the current-carrying conductor through the first hole of the second substrate; and rotating the current-carrying conductor about its main axis such that the current-carrying conductor is in a second direction (e.g., rotating it about its main axis by approximately 90 degrees). The method may also comprise connecting the first end of the current-carrying conductor to a terminal block. wherein the first substrate comprises a first current measuring coil and a second current measuring coil, the second substrate comprises a third current measuring coil surrounding the first hole, and the first opening is located between the first current measuring coil and the second current measuring coil. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Aspects of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts, and wherein:

[0009] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a Rogowski coil;

[0010] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the current measuring coil on the substrate;

[0011] Figure 3 is a representation of four current measurement coils implemented on a single substrate;

[0012] Figure 4A is a schematic diagram of a first substrate of a current sensor assembly distributed on two substrates;

[0013] Figure 4B is a schematic diagram of a second substrate of a current sensor assembly distributed on two substrates;

[0014] Figure 4C yes Figure 4A The first substrate and Figure 4B an overlay image of a second substrate;

[0015] Figure 4D is a schematic diagram of a first substrate of a current sensor assembly distributed on two substrates, including a cross-sectional view;

[0016] Figure 4E is a schematic diagram of a second substrate of a current sensor assembly distributed on two substrates, including a cross-sectional portion;

[0017] Figure 4F yes Figure 4D The first substrate and Figure 4E an overlay image of a second substrate;

[0018] Figure 4G is a schematic diagram of a first substrate of a current sensor assembly distributed on two substrates, including a cross-sectional view;

[0019] Figure 4H is a schematic diagram of a second substrate of a current sensor assembly distributed on two substrates, including a cross-sectional portion;

[0020] Fig. 4I yes Figure 4G The first substrate and Figure 4H an overlapping representation of a second substrate;

[0021] Figure 5A yes Figure 3 and Figure 4C Comparison of current sensors;

[0022] Figure 5B yes Figure 3 and Figure 4C Another comparison of current sensors;

[0023] Figure 6 yes Figure 4C Another view of the current sensor assembly;

[0024] Figure 7 Can be used as a substitute Figure 4Aa replacement substrate for the first substrate;

[0025] Figure 8 Can be used as a substitute Figure 4A a replacement substrate for the first substrate;

[0026] Fig. 9A is a schematic diagram of a first substrate of a current sensor assembly distributed on three substrates;

[0027] Fig. 9B is a schematic diagram of a second substrate of a current sensor assembly distributed on three substrates;

[0028] Fig. 9C is a schematic diagram of a third substrate of a current sensor assembly distributed on three substrates;

[0029] Fig.9D yes Fig. 9A a first substrate, Fig. 9B The second substrate and Fig. 9C A superimposed representation of a third substrate;

[0030] Fig. 10A is a schematic diagram of a first current-carrying conductor;

[0031] Fig. 10B yes Fig. 10A Another view of a current-carrying conductor in;

[0032] Fig. 10C is a schematic diagram of a second current-carrying conductor;

[0033] Fig. 10D yes Fig. 10C Another view of a current-carrying conductor;

[0034] Fig.11A is a view of a first substrate of a current sensor assembly;

[0035] Fig. 11B is a view of a second substrate of the current sensor assembly;

[0036] Fig. 12A is a view of a first substrate of a current sensor assembly having a modified opening;

[0037] Fig. 12B is a view of a second substrate of the current sensor assembly having a modified opening;

[0038] Fig.13A is a view of a first substrate of a current sensor assembly showing a cross section of a current carrying conductor;

[0039] Fig. 13B is a view of a second substrate of the current sensor assembly showing a cross section of a current carrying conductor;

[0040] Fig. 13C is a view of a first substrate of a current sensor assembly showing the positioning of a first cross-section of a current carrying conductor;

[0041] Fig.13D is a view of a first substrate of a current sensor assembly showing positioning of a second cross-section of a current carrying conductor;

[0042] Fig.14 yes Fig. 12A and 12B 3D of the current sensor assembly;

[0043] Fig.15 yes Fig.14 Another view of the current sensor assembly, further comprising an additional substrate;

[0044] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 Another view of the current sensor assembly;

[0045] Fig.17 yes Fig.16 Another view of the current sensor assembly, including a wiring terminal;

[0046] Fig.18A is an exploded view of a current sensor assembly including a housing;

[0047] Fig.18B yes Fig.18A A view of a current sensor assembly with a housing secured around a substrate;

[0048] Fig.19A yes Figures 9A-9D Alternative 3D view of the current sensor assembly;

[0049] Fig.19B yes Fig.19A Another view of the current sensor assembly;

[0050] Fig. 20A is a view of a current sensor assembly distributed on two substrates;

[0051] Fig. 20B yes Fig. 20A A 3D view of the current sensor assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] There is a need for an improved method of measuring current in multiple conductors while allowing the conductors to be close together and maintaining acceptable measurement sensitivity. A current measuring coil measures the rate of change of current in the conductors around it. Therefore, a certain spacing or gap is required between the individual conductors to allow space for the current measuring coil.

[0053] The present invention provides an improved current sensor assembly including a plurality of current measuring coils distributed on a plurality of printed circuit boards or substrates. By providing the current measuring coils on a plurality of substrates and providing openings between the current measuring coils to allow conductors to pass through the current measuring coils on another substrate, the system can be arranged with a smaller conductor spacing than would otherwise be possible.

[0054] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a known Rogowski coil. In order to measure the current I(t) flowing through a current-carrying conductor 100, a measuring coil 102 is arranged so that the current-carrying conductor 100 passes through the measuring coil. The measuring coil 102 is wound into a spiral so that the loops or turns of the spiral surround a cross-sectional area 104, A. The current-carrying conductor 100 can be, for example, a busbar.

[0055] As the current I(t) in the current carrying conductor 100 changes, the field generated by the current also changes. The positioning of the measuring coil causes a voltage proportional to the rate of change of the current dI / dt to be induced in the measuring coil 102. Therefore, integrating the output v(t) of the measuring coil provides a value proportional to the current.

[0056] The current measuring coil can be implemented on a PCB or substrate using multiple conductors connected by vias. Figure 2 A current measurement system 200 is shown that includes a substrate 202. A current measurement coil 204, such as a Rogowski coil, is implemented on the substrate so that it surrounds a current carrying conductor 206. A hole 208 can be provided in the substrate 202 to allow the current carrying conductor 206 to pass through the substrate 202, for example at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the substrate 202. The current measurement coil can be implemented on the PCB in a variety of different ways, such as using multiple conductors on a multilayer substrate connected by through holes. Those skilled in the art will understand how to implement the current measurement coil on the PCB, so it will not be described in detail here. For example, current measurement coils implemented on PCBs or substrates are described in US10859605 B2 and US 17 / 695793, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Instead, for ease of understanding, the current measurement coil will be represented by a circle 204 surrounding the corresponding hole 208.

[0057] In some electrical systems, such as three-phase systems, it is desirable to measure current in multiple current carrying conductors that may be close to each other, such as in a busbar arrangement. For example, in a three-phase system, it may be desirable to measure current in at least some of the three individual phases and / or return / neutral conductors.

[0058] Figure 3A substrate 302 is shown which includes four current measuring coils around four current carrying conductors. A first current measuring coil 306 is arranged around a first current carrying conductor 304. A second current measuring coil 310 is arranged around a second current carrying conductor 308. A third current measuring coil 314 is arranged around a third current carrying conductor 312. A fourth current measuring coil is arranged around a fourth current carrying conductor 316.

[0059] Each current measuring coil has a radius 320. Generally, the larger the radius 320 of the measuring coil, the larger the area of ​​the current measuring coil, and thus the higher the sensitivity of the measuring coil. Figure 3 In the arrangement of , each current carrying conductor must be separated by a spacing or distance 324 that is sufficient to accommodate the measuring coil. For example, the first current carrying conductor 304 and the second current carrying conductor 308 are separated by a distance 324 that is at least the sum of the radius 320 of the first measuring coil 306 and the radius 322 of the second measuring coil 310. Therefore, the larger the radius of the measuring coil, the greater the required distance 324 between the current carrying conductors.

[0060] Therefore, in Figure 3 In the configuration, there is a trade-off between the sensitivity of the measuring coil and the allowed spacing between the conductors.

[0061] FIG4 illustrates a current sensor assembly 400 according to one aspect of the present disclosure. Assembly 400 includes a plurality of substrates or printed circuit boards with current measuring coils separated between the substrates. FIG4a shows a first substrate 402 as viewed from a direction perpendicular to the substrate surface. FIG4b shows a second substrate 404 as viewed from a direction perpendicular to the substrate surface. FIG4c shows a view of a stacked arrangement of the first and second substrates. The view is from a direction perpendicular to the two substrates with the first substrate 402 located on top of the second substrate 404. The coils on the second substrate 404 are not actually visible because they would be obscured by the first substrate 402, but are shown in the figure to help understand the relative arrangement of the coils and substrates.

[0062] The first substrate 402 includes a first hole 406. The first hole 406 is sized to receive a first current carrying conductor 432 at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate 402. A first current measuring coil 408 is formed on the first substrate 402 around the circumference of the first hole 406.

[0063] The first substrate 402 also includes a second hole 410. The second hole 410 is sized to receive a second current carrying conductor 436 at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate 402. A second current measuring coil 412 is formed on the first substrate 402 around the circumference of the second hole 410.

[0064] The first opening 424 is located between the first hole 406 and the second hole 410. The first opening 424 is adapted to receive the third current carrying conductor 424 at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate 402.

[0065] The second substrate 404 includes a third hole 414. The third hole 414 is sized to receive a third current carrying conductor 434 at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the second substrate 404. A third current measuring coil 416 is formed on the second substrate 404 around the circumference of the third hole 414.

[0066] The second substrate 404 also includes a fourth hole 418. The fourth hole 418 is sized to receive a fourth current carrying conductor 438 at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the second substrate 404. A fourth current measuring coil 420 is formed on the second substrate 404 around the circumference of the fourth hole 418.

[0067] The second opening 430 is located between the third hole 414 and the fourth hole 418. The second opening 430 is adapted to receive a second current carrying conductor 436 at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the second substrate 404.

[0068] The current sensor assembly 400 is arranged so that the first substrate 402 and the second substrate 404 are positioned parallel to each other. This allows the current carrying conductors to pass through corresponding holes and openings on the first substrate 402 and the second substrate 404.

[0069] The measuring coil is capable of detecting the current in a current carrying conductor. The measuring coil may be connected to active or passive electronic equipment for measuring the current in the conductor, for example by integrating the voltage output by the measuring coil to provide a signal proportional to the rate of change of the current in the current carrying conductor.

[0070] The third opening 426 may be located on the first substrate 402. The third opening is adapted to receive the fourth current carrying conductor 438 at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate 402.

[0071] The fourth opening 428 may be located on the second substrate 404. The fourth opening 428 is adapted to receive the first current carrying conductor 432 at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the second substrate 404.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 4 , the third opening 426 and the fourth opening 428 are located at the edges of the first substrate 402 and the second substrate 404, respectively. These openings are optional openings. Instead of these openings, a smaller substrate can be used, and the second current measurement coil 412 and the third current measurement coil 416 can be adjacent to or very close to the edge of their respective substrates (as in the case of coils 404 and 420 on the other side of the substrate). Therefore, the fourth current carrying conductor 438 can pass through the edge of the first substrate 402 and through the fourth hole 418, and the first current carrying conductor 432 can pass through the edge of the third current measurement coil 416 and through the first hole 406. This allows the substrates 402 and 404 to be smaller, which can reduce cost and / or manufacturing complexity.

[0073] By arranging the current measuring coils on two substrates, the overall size of the current sensor assembly 400 can be smaller. The spacing / distance 422 between adjacent current-carrying conductors (e.g., between the first current-carrying conductor 432 and the third current-carrying conductor 434) can be less than the sum of the radii 420 of the first current measuring coil 408 and the second current measuring coil 416. Therefore, the current measuring coil, such as the Rogowski coil, can be used with conductor spacings having relatively small spacings (e.g., with conductor busbars having relatively small spacings) while still maintaining a reasonable coil radius 420, thereby maintaining a reasonable measurement sensitivity. Optionally, each current measuring coil can have a different radius, depending on the desired sensitivity of the respective current measuring coils.

[0074] In addition, the current sensor assembly 400 includes multiple current measurement coils on each substrate. For example, the first substrate 402 includes a first current measurement coil 408 and a second current measurement coil 412. This improves the sensitivity of the system by minimizing the number of substrate interconnects required. The substrate interconnects reduce the system sensitivity by picking up noise. Therefore, the current sensor assembly 400 is able to achieve tighter or smaller conductor spacing while maintaining measurement accuracy by ensuring acceptable coil radius and minimal substrate interconnects.

[0075] Figure 5A It shows how the current sensor assembly 400 with the coils separated across two substrates is much smaller than the current sensor 300 distributed across a single substrate. This allows the current carrying conductors to be closer to each other, with the spacing 422 between the current carrying conductors of the current sensor assembly 400 being smaller than the spacing 324 between the current carrying conductors of the current sensor assembly 300.

[0076] Furthermore, it should be noted that even if the spacing 422 between the current carrying conductors is the same as the spacing 324, the system is still beneficial because it allows the measurement coil to have a larger radius, thereby increasing sensitivity. As a result, the disclosed system can achieve small conductor spacing while still maintaining acceptable measurement sensitivity, or can increase measurement sensitivity for the same conductor spacing.

[0077] For example, Figure 5B Shows Figure 3 The current sensor assembly 300 and Figure 4C 4 , wherein the spacing 324 between the current carrying conductors of assembly 300 is the same as the spacing 422 between the current carrying conductors of the second assembly. The radius 504 of the current measuring coil of assembly 400 is significantly larger than the radius 502 of the current measuring coil of assembly 300. This should improve the current measurement sensitivity and accuracy for the same conductor spacing.

[0078] In the current measurement assembly 400 shown in FIG4 , when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the substrate surface, the current measurement coils may overlap. For example, the first current measurement coil 408 overlaps with the third current measurement coil 416 , the third current measurement coil 416 overlaps with the first measurement coil 408 and the second measurement coil 412 , and the second current measurement coil 412 overlaps with the third measurement coil 416 and the fourth current measurement coil 420 .

[0079] Although FIG. 4 shows a current sensor assembly 400 including four measuring coils, the current sensor assembly 400 may include more or fewer coils depending on the number of current-carrying conductors. For example, the current sensor assembly 400 may include three measuring coils, including a first measuring coil 408, a second current measuring coil 412, and a third current measuring coil 416 (i.e., the fourth current measuring coil 420 may be excluded). In a three-phase system where there is no need to measure a neutral conductor (or there is actually no neutral conductor), a system including three current measuring coils may be ideal. In addition, the system may include only two current measuring coils, such as the first current measuring coil 408 and the third current measuring coil 416.

[0080] The holes 406, 410, 414, 418 are all surrounded by respective current measuring coils. These holes 406, 410, 414, 418 are of closed shape, for example with a circular cross section, allowing the respective current measuring coils to be formed around the entire hole.

[0081] The openings 424, 426, 428, 418 are not surrounded by the current measuring coil, but are arranged to allow the corresponding current carrying conductor to pass through the corresponding substrate. For example, the third current carrying conductor 434 passes through the first opening 424 on the first substrate 402 and the third hole 414 arranged on the second substrate 404. The measurement of the current in the third current carrying conductor 434 can be performed using the third current measuring coil 416 on the second substrate 404. Since the first opening 424 is not surrounded by the current measuring coil, the form of the opening has greater flexibility.

[0082] For example, although FIG. 4 shows all openings 424, 426, 428, 430 as closed-shaped holes (circular holes in this example), any one or more of the openings 424, 426, 428, 430 may also be cut-away openings. For example, one side of the opening may extend to the edge of the substrate so that the opening is cut away, which may allow a current-carrying conductor to be easily inserted into the opening.

[0083] Figures 4D to 4F An example is shown where each opening 424, 426, 428, 430 is cut out or opened. In this example, each opening 424, 426, 428, 430 is the same rectangular shape, but any one or more of them can take any other suitable shape, for example, the opening is wider at the edge of the substrate than where the conductor passes through. In another alternative, the opening on the first substrate 402 does not extend to the same side as the opening on the second substrate 404, but can extend to the opposite side.

[0084] Figures 4G to 4I An example is shown in which openings 424 and 426 extend to a first side of the first substrate 402 and openings 428 and 430 extend to a second side of the second substrate 404, wherein the first side and the second side are opposite sides. This arrangement may be particularly beneficial for manufacturing / assembly. Specifically, the first current-carrying conductor 432 and the second current-carrying conductor 436 may be inserted into the first hole 406 and the second hole 410, respectively, and the third current-carrying conductor 434 and the fourth current-carrying conductor 438 may be inserted into the third hole 414 and the fourth hole 418, respectively. The first substrate 402 and the second substrate 404 may then be positioned relative to each other by sliding one over the other, such that the first current-carrying conductor 432 and the second current-carrying conductor 436 slide into the fourth opening 428 and the second opening 430, respectively, while the third current-carrying conductor 434 and the fourth current-carrying conductor 438 may slide into the first opening 424 and the third opening 426, respectively. This benefit may also be realized in an alternative arrangement where the third opening 426 and the fourth opening 432 are not present because a shorter substrate is used such that the second coil 412 and the third coil 416 reach the edges of their respective substrates (as previously described). Figure 4G and 4FThe first substrate 402 and the second substrate 404 can be considered as the same substrate rotated 180 degrees. This can reduce manufacturing complexity because only a single substrate type needs to be manufactured.

[0085] In all of the above examples, the current sensor assembly 400 includes multiple current measurement coils on each substrate. This can reduce the required inter-board connections or interconnections compared to having a separate substrate for each current measurement coil. A smaller number of inter-board connections can reduce assembly / manufacturing complexity and / or reduce electromagnetic pickup experienced by the current measurement circuit, which should reduce noise in the measurement signal, thereby improving the accuracy of the current measurement signal output by the current measurement coil.

[0086] Figure 6 Another view of the current sensor assembly 400 is shown, particularly Figures 4A to 4C The current assembly 400 shown in FIG. 4 (although it will be appreciated that the relative arrangement of the two substrates is not Figures 4D to 4I 4 is the same as the alternatives shown in ). The current sensor assembly includes four current carrying conductors 432, 434, 436 and 438. The first substrate 402 and the second substrate 404 are arranged so that the main surfaces of the substrates are parallel or substantially parallel to each other. Although FIG. 4 shows a gap between the first substrate 402 and the second substrate 404, the substrates may also be in close contact with each other so that there is no gap between the first substrate 402 and the second substrate 404.

[0087] Although the current sensor assembly 400 of FIG. 4 includes a substrate with two measuring coils and an opening therebetween suitable for a current carrying conductor, the first substrate may be arranged differently.

[0088] Figure 7 An example of a first substrate 702 having an alternative arrangement is shown.

[0089] Similar to the first sub-state 402 example above, Figure 7 The first substrate 702 shown in FIG. 4 includes a first hole 406. The first hole 406 is sized to receive the first current carrying conductor 432 at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate 402. A first current measuring coil 408 is formed on the first substrate 402 around the circumference of the first hole 406.

[0090] Similarly, similar to the first sub-state 402 example above, Figure 7 The first substrate 702 shown in FIG. 7 further includes a second hole 410. The second hole 410 is sized to receive a second current carrying conductor 436 at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate 702. A second current measuring coil 412 is formed on the first substrate 702 around the circumference of the second hole 410.

[0091] The first opening 424 is again located between the first hole 406 and the second hole 410. The first opening 424 is capable of receiving the third current carrying conductor 434 at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate 702. However, in contrast to the earlier examples of the first substrate 402, Figure 7 In the arrangement shown, the third opening 426 is located between the first hole 406 and the second hole 410 on the first substrate 702. The third opening is capable of receiving the fourth current carrying conductor 438 at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate 402.

[0092] Although the first opening 424 and the third opening 426 are shown as separate openings in this example, these openings may instead be combined into a single first opening 424 capable of receiving the third current carrying conductor 434 and the fourth current carrying conductor 438. For example, it may be an elongated hole in the first substrate 702, such that the third current carrying conductor 434 and the fourth current carrying conductor 438 both pass through the same hole.

[0093] Or, if Figure 8 As shown, the first opening 424 can be implemented using a cut-out portion so that the third current carrying conductor 434 and the fourth current carrying conductor 438 both pass through the first opening 424. This can simplify the construction of the current sensor assembly because the third current carrying conductor 434 and the fourth current carrying conductor 438 can be more easily positioned than inserting them into an opening formed as a closed side hole.

[0094] FIG9 shows a current sensor assembly 900 comprising a plurality of substrates with the current measuring coils separated between the substrates. FIG9a shows a first substrate 702 viewed from a direction perpendicular to the substrate surface (although a second substrate 702 may also be used). Figure 8 FIG. 9B shows a first substrate 902 as shown in FIG. 9C . FIG. 9D shows a stacked view of the first, second and third substrates as viewed from a direction perpendicular to the substrate surfaces. FIG. 9A shows a first substrate 902 as shown in FIG. 9B . FIG. 9B shows a second substrate 904 as viewed from a direction perpendicular to the substrate surfaces. FIG. 9C shows a third substrate 906 as viewed from a direction perpendicular to the substrate surfaces. FIG. 9D shows a stacked view of the first, second and third substrates as viewed from a direction perpendicular to the substrate surfaces.

[0095] The second substrate 904 includes a third hole 414. The third hole 414 is sized to receive the third current carrying conductor 434 at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the second substrate 904. A third current measuring coil 416 is formed on the second substrate 404 around the circumference of the third hole 414.

[0096] The third substrate 906 includes a fourth hole 418. The fourth hole 418 is sized to receive a fourth current carrying conductor 438 at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the third substrate 906. A fourth current measuring coil 420 is formed on the third substrate 906 around the circumference of the fourth hole 418.

[0097] The second substrate 904 and the third substrate 906 each comprise only a single measuring coil. Therefore, the substrates may have a circular cross-section to minimize their size, although they may also be of any other shape.

[0098] Fig. 9B and 9C The positions of the second substrate 904 and the third substrate 906 are shown relative to the current carrying conductors 432, 434, 436, 438. Since the second and third substrates each include only a single measuring coil, the substrates do not need to have openings for the conductors they do not measure, as these conductors can be located to the sides of the second substrate 904 and the third substrate 906.

[0099] Fig.9D The current sensor assembly 900 is shown with the second substrate 904 and the third substrate 906 both located on top of the same side of the first substrate 902. However, the second substrate 904 may be disposed on a first side at the first substrate 402 and the third substrate 906 may be disposed on a second side with the first substrate 402 such that the first substrate 402 is sandwiched between the second substrate 904 and the third substrate 906.

[0100] Although the third current measurement coil 416 and the fourth current measurement coil 420 are shown on two separate substrates 904, 906, they can also be provided on a single substrate. In order to accommodate the two current measurement coils 416, 420 on the same substrate, the radius of the third current measurement coil 416 and the fourth current measurement coil 420 can be reduced. Alternatively, the size of the third hole 414 on the second substrate 904 can be increased to allow the third current carrying conductor 434 to be off-center in the hole 414. In addition, the size of the fourth hole 418 on the third substrate 906 can be increased to allow the fourth current carrying conductor 438 to be off-center in the hole 418. This can allow the current measurement coils 416 and 420 to have the same Fig. 9B and 9C The current measuring coils shown have the same radius. Figure 20 shows a more detailed implementation where the current carrying conductor is eccentric in the hole.

[0101] 9 shows four current-carrying conductors 432, 434, 436, and 438 and three substrates 702, 904, and 906, in another case, there may be only three current-carrying conductors (e.g., 432, 434, and 436) and two substrates (e.g., 702 and 904). In this example, the third current-carrying conductor 434 may be located anywhere between the first current-carrying conductor 432 and the second current-carrying conductor 434, such as an equidistant position therebetween.

[0102] The current carrying conductors have been depicted in all of the previous examples as having a circular cross section. However, depending on the use case, the current carrying conductors may have alternative cross sections or a cross section that varies along the length of the conductor.

[0103] Fig. 10A A current carrying conductor 1102 is shown. A first end of the current carrying conductor 1102 has a first cross-section 1104. A central portion of the current carrying conductor 1102 has a second cross-section 1106. A second end of the current carrying conductor 1102 has a third cross-section 1108.

[0104] The first cross section 1104 and the third cross section 1108 may be rectangular cross sections. Fig. 10B As shown, the length 1110 of the rectangular cross section is greater than the width 1112 of the rectangular cross section. In addition, the first cross section 1104 may include a concave surface 1120 along one side of the length 1110. This may allow the current carrying conductor 1102 to be more easily connected to a terminal block because the screws or connecting pins may easily secure the rectangular cross section. The second cross section 1106 may be a circular cross section having a diameter 1114 that is less than the length 1110 of the rectangular cross section.

[0105] Or, if Fig. 10C and Fig. 10D As shown, the current carrying conductor 1116 can have a rectangular or oblong cross-section 1118 throughout the entire length of the current carrying conductor 1116 , a first length 1110 , and a first width 1112 that is less than the first length 1110 .

[0106] The holes and openings in the current sensor assembly previously described for receiving a current carrying conductor are sized to accept the current carrying conductor at an angle perpendicular to the substrate surface. Thus, the shape of the holes and openings may vary depending on the shape of the current carrying conductor used. Although two different types of current carrying conductors are shown in FIG. 10 , current carrying conductors having alternative cross sections may also be used.

[0107] Fig.11A and 11B Another alternative example of a current sensor assembly according to one aspect of the present disclosure is shown. In this example, Fig.11A A first substrate 1122 is shown which is very similar to the first substrate 402 described in the previous example. Fig. 11B A second substrate 1124 is shown that is very similar to the second substrate 404 described in the previous example. Fig.11A and 11BThe current carrying conductors 432, 434, 436 and 438 in the example have a rectangular cross-section, at least at the first end, and in some cases throughout the entire length of the conductor. The holes 406, 410, 414 and 418 around which the current measuring coil is formed are circular, allowing the current carrying conductor to pass through. In this example, the openings 424, 426, 428 and 430 are also circular. However, in order to accommodate the rectangular cross-sections of the current carrying conductors 432, 434, 436 and 438, the openings in this example are larger than in the previous examples. Therefore, the radius of the coil is smaller than in the previous examples. For example, the first current measuring coil 408 on the first substrate 1122 and the second current measuring coil 412 on the first substrate 1122 are separated by a distance 1120, which is at least equal to the diameter of the first opening 424.

[0108] However, the inventors have recognized that the shape of the openings 424, 430 in the substrate may be altered to reduce the distance 1120 between the current measuring coils. Fig. 12A and 12B A first substrate 1202 and a second substrate 1204 are shown, wherein the openings 424, 426, 428, and 430 have a rectangular cross-section. The opening has a width 1206 and a length 1208. The width 1206 is smaller than the length 1208. In this way, a current-carrying conductor 434 having a rectangular cross-section, such as the current-carrying wire 1116 of FIG. 10 , can pass through the opening 424. The width 1206 of the opening is greater than the width 1112 of the current-carrying conductor, and the length 1208 of the opening 424 is greater than the length 1110 of the current-carrying wire. However, the width 1206 of the opening is smaller than the length 1208 of the opening. In this way, the first current measuring coil 408 and the second current measuring coil 412 can be closer than the example of FIG. 11 , with the distance between them being equal to or greater than the width 1206 of the first opening 424, rather than being equal to or greater than the length 1208 of the first opening 424. As Fig. 12B As shown, the arrangement of the openings 428 and 430 in the second substrate 1204 is similar. Therefore, the radius of the coil in FIG12 can be larger than the radius of the coil in FIG11, which can improve the current measurement performance of the coil.

[0109] When the current-carrying conductor 434 has a uniform rectangular cross-section throughout its length, such as the current-carrying conductor 1116 of Figure 10, the shape of the opening is determined only by the rectangular cross-sectional area of ​​the current-carrying conductor. However, when the current-carrying conductor has a varying cross-section throughout its length, such as the current-carrying conductor 1102 of Figure 10, it may be necessary to adjust the size of the opening so that it can accommodate all cross-sections of the current-carrying conductor.

[0110] Fig.13A and 13B Shows the Fig.11A and 11B1 and 11. The diagram of the embodiment of the present invention is similar to that of the first substrate 1122 and the second substrate 1124. However, in this example, the shapes of the current carrying conductors 432, 434, 436 and 438 are different from those of the embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 10A and 10B In this example, current carrying conductors 432, 434, 436, and 438 are oriented so that the long dimensions 1110 of their first ends 1104 are all aligned with each other, which may be a requirement for a conductor fixture (e.g., a terminal block) to which current carrying conductors 432, 434, 436, and 438 may all need to be connected. Figures 14 to 17 ,in particular Fig.17 , it is easier to understand this direction, Fig.17 To allow the length dimension 1110 of the ends of current carrying conductors 432, 434, 436 and 438 to pass through substrates 1122 and 1124, openings 424, 426, 428 and 430 have a relatively large width 1120, so the radius of coils 408, 412, 416 and 420 is relatively small.

[0111] However, the inventors have recognized that the width of openings 424, 428, 432, and 436 can be reduced if the orientation of each current carrying conductor 432, 434, 436, and 438 is rotated 90 degrees about its major axis when inserted through substrates 1122 and 1124. Thus, the size 1120 of each opening can be reduced, and the radius of each coil can be increased, thereby improving the measurement accuracy of the coils.

[0112] Fig. 13C A first view of a first substrate 1202 according to this example is shown. Fig.13D A second view of the first substrate 1202 is shown. The current carrying conductor has Fig. 10A , 10B , 13A and 13B have the same shape. Fig. 13C The first view of FIG. 1 shows only the first cross-section (ie, the rectangular cross-section) at one end of the current-carrying conductor. Fig.13D The second view of FIG. 1 shows only the second cross-section (ie the circular cross-section) of the central portion of the current-carrying conductor.

[0113] like Fig. 13C As shown, the width 1206 of the first opening 424 is greater than the width 1112 of the first cross section of the third current-carrying conductor 434, and the length 1208 is greater than the length 1110 of the first cross section. Fig.13DAs shown, the width 1206 of the first opening is greater than the diameter 1114 of the second cross section. The width 1206 of the first opening is less than the length 1114 of the first cross section. The third current-carrying conductor 434 can pass through the opening in one direction, and the length 1110 of the first cross section is in the same direction as the length 1208 of the first opening 424. This is Fig. 13C Once the first rectangular cross-section 1104 passes through the opening 424, the current carrying conductor can be rotated about its major axis if desired (e.g., about 90 degrees clockwise or counterclockwise about the major axis or major axis of the conductor, from Fig. 13C and 13D , the major axis is the axis directly into the page) because the opening can accommodate the circular cross-section 1106 of the current carrying conductor 434 in any orientation. In this way, the first current measuring coil 408 and the second current measuring coil 412 can be closer together than otherwise. Therefore, Fig.13A and 13B The orientation of the conductors shown in FIG. 1 can be achieved by an opening with a width of 1206, which is smaller than Fig.13A and Fig. 13B The width 1120 in the example means that the first current measurement coil 408 and the second current measurement coil 412 can be made larger and therefore more accurate. Fig. 13C and 13D Another benefit of the shape of the middle opening 424 is that the ends of the current carrying conductor 1102 can be flattened before being inserted into the first and second substrates to form Fig. 10A and 10B , while still achieving a relatively small width 1206. This is similar to using Figures 4A to 4C This is in stark contrast to the manufacturing process of the design shown, in which a round cross-section rod is inserted into an opening in a substrate and then the end is flattened. This manufacturing process is more complicated and there is a greater risk of damaging the substrate and / or other electronic equipment because the equipment used to flatten the ends of the conductor rod is typically very heavy and powerful. The same arrangement applies to other openings on the first substrate and the second substrate. For example, the second opening 430 between the third current measurement coil 416 and the fourth current measurement coil 420 can have the same size as the opening 424 between the first current measurement coil 408 and the second current measurement coil 412.

[0114] Although openings 424 and 426 are Fig. 13C and 13D In the example, they are shown as closed side holes, but in another case, they can be cut-away openings, e.g. Figures 4D to 4F In this case, the cutout opening may be of any suitable shape (e.g., see Figures 4D to 4F), but the width 1206 of the opening between the measuring coils 408 and 412 will be sufficient to accommodate the circular cross-section of the current carrying conductor, rather than Fig.13A and 13B The rectangular cross-section is oriented as shown to minimize width 1206.

[0115] Fig.14 A 3D view of a current sensor assembly 1400 is shown, including a Fig. 13C and 13D The design of the first substrate 1202 and the second substrate 1204 is shown. From this 3D view, the assembly process can be easily understood, that is, the orientation of the current carrying conductors 432-438 is aligned with the openings in the two substrates so that they can be inserted through the holes and openings in the two substrates, and then rotated about their major axis, such as about 90 degrees clockwise or counterclockwise, to their second final orientation so that they can be connected to the terminal blocks 1702, 1704, 1706 and 1708.

[0116] Fig.15 Another view of the current sensor assembly 1400 is shown. In this example, another PCB 1502 is coupled to the top of the first substrate 1202 and the second substrate 1204.

[0117] like Fig.15 As shown, the current-carrying conductor has a first rectangular cross-section at its end. The current-carrying conductor may be Fig. 10A and 10B The conductors shown are the same. As previously described, the first opening 424 also has a rectangular cross-section. Therefore, as previously described, during the manufacturing / assembly process, the third current-carrying conductor 434 can only pass through the first opening 424 in certain directions. In particular, the third current-carrying conductor 434 can only pass through the first opening 424 in a direction in which the longer edge 1110 of the third current-carrying conductor 434 is aligned with the longer edge 1208 of the first opening 424. Once the third current-carrying conductor 434 passes through the first opening 424 in such a direction, it can be rotated 90 degrees, thereby making it easier to connect to the associated terminal. The same is true for other current-carrying conductors.

[0118] Fig.16 Shows Fig.15 Another view of the current sensor assembly shows the relative positions of the first substrate 1202 and the second substrate 1204, wherein the first current carrying conductor 432, the second current carrying conductor 436, the third current carrying conductor 434 and the fourth current carrying conductor 438 pass through the corresponding current measuring coils on the first substrate 1202 and the second substrate 1204.

[0119] Fig.17 Shows Fig.15 and 161704. Another view of the current sensor assembly of FIG. 1704, but also showing the current carrying conductors connected to the corresponding terminal blocks. For example, the first current carrying conductor 432 can be coupled or connected to the first terminal block 1702. The second current carrying conductor 436 can be coupled or connected to the second terminal block 1704. The third current carrying conductor 434 can be coupled or connected to the third terminal block 1706. The fourth current carrying conductor 438 can be coupled or connected to the fourth terminal block 1708. Once the current carrying conductors pass through the openings, rotating the current carrying conductors can couple or connect them to the terminal blocks while allowing the width of the openings in the substrate and the distance between the current measuring coils to be minimized.

[0120] Fig.18A and 18B Another example current sensor assembly 1800 is shown according to an aspect of the present disclosure. Fig.18A An "exploded" diagram of the assembly is shown, Fig.18B The complete assembly is shown along with four current carrying conductors 432, 434, 436, and 438 that the assembly 1800 is configured to receive. The current sensor assembly 1800 includes a first substrate 402 including a first current measuring coil 408 surrounding a first hole 406. The first substrate 402 also includes a second current measuring coil 412 surrounding a second hole 410. A first opening 424 is located between the first current measuring coil 408 and the second current measuring coil 412.

[0121] The second substrate 404 can be constructed in a similar manner as the first substrate 402. The second substrate 404 includes a third current measuring coil 416 surrounding the third hole 414. The second substrate 404 also includes a second current measuring coil 420 surrounding the second hole 418. The second opening 430 is located between the third current measuring coil 416 and the fourth current measuring coil 420. The substrate shown in this example is similar to Fig. 12A and 12B The substrates in the embodiment of the present invention include only one opening each, since the size of the substrates does not require a second opening to be provided on each substrate.

[0122] The current sensor assembly 1800 may also optionally include a first cover 1802 and a second cover 1804, which are arranged to protect the first substrate 402 and the second substrate 404 by surrounding the substrate. The first cover 1802 and the second cover 1804 can be connected using a latch 1810 or other connecting means. The first cover 1802 may include a plurality of openings 1806, and the second cover 1804 may include a plurality of openings 1808, which are arranged to align and allow the plurality of current carrying conductors 432, 434, 436, 438 to pass through.

[0123] Fig.19A and 19B Shows the Figures 9A-9DDifferent views of current sensor assembly 1900 are shown in FIG. Figures 9A-9D As shown, the assembly 1900 includes a first substrate 902 including a first measuring coil 408 and a second current measuring coil 412. A second substrate 904 includes a third current measuring coil 416, and a third substrate 906 includes a fourth current measuring coil 420.

[0124] The current carrying conductors 432, 434, 436 and 438 pass through holes surrounded by corresponding current measuring coils. The current carrying conductors 432-438 shown in the current sensor assembly 1900 are flat conductors, allowing the conductors to be coupled together. In this example, the current carrying conductors effectively form a frame to which the substrates 902, 904, 906 can be fixed to hold the substrates in place relative to each other and the conductors. Fig.19A and 19B The current carrying conductor layout shown complies with the ANSI 42S standard. For example, conductors 432 and 438 may be connected to a home or household electrical system or circuit. Conductors 434 and 436 may be connected to some other related system / circuit, such as a photovoltaic (PV) system or an electric vehicle (EV) charging system. This allows for measurement of power consumption or power generation of other related systems / circuits while also providing dedicated measurement of the home network current draw.

[0125] Fig. 20A and 20B A current sensor assembly 2000 is shown, which is based on Figures 9A-9D The alternative current sensor assembly includes two substrates instead of three substrates. The first substrate 902 includes a first current measuring coil 408 and a second current measuring coil 412. The second substrate 2004 includes a third current measuring coil 416 and a fourth current measuring coil 420. The third and fourth current measuring coils 416, 420 are arranged so that they are located between the first current measuring coil 408 and the second current measuring coil 412.

[0126] In order to allow the third current measuring coil 416 and the fourth current measuring coil 420 to be placed on the same second substrate 2004, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the substrate (e.g., when viewed from Fig. 20A408, and the fourth current measuring coil 420 can overlap with the second current measuring coil 412. In addition, the third current carrying conductor 434 can be eccentric in the third hole 414, and the fourth current carrying conductor 438 can be eccentric in the fourth hole 418. Eccentricity can mean that the current carrying conductors are not in the central portion of the corresponding hole, for example, they do not pass through the axis passing through the center of the corresponding hole. This allows the third current measuring coil 416 and the fourth current measuring coil 420 to be placed on the same substrate 2004, thereby reducing the connection between the substrates, thereby reducing electromagnetic pickup.

[0127] Thus, it can be seen that in the present disclosure, various different example current sensor assemblies are described, all of which include at least two substrates with current measuring coils, where at least one substrate has two or more current measuring coils. These arrangements all enable the current sensor assemblies to be used to measure current in conductors arranged with relatively small conductor spacing, while maintaining good measurement sensitivity because the measuring coils have relatively large radii, and by minimizing electromagnetic pickup in the measurement signal by having multiple measuring coils on at least some of the substrates, thereby minimizing substrate interconnects.

[0128] Various modifications may be made to the above-described examples, whether by adding, deleting, or substituting features, to provide further examples, any and all of which should be encompassed by the following claims.

[0129] For example, the openings between the measuring coils on at least the first substrate can be anywhere between the measuring coils, for example, the coils are equidistant (eg Figures 4A to 4C ) or other locations (such as Fig.18A and 18B ).

[0130] Current measurement assemblies may or may not include the current carrying conductors they are configured to measure. For example, a current measurement assembly may simply include two or more substrates with measurement coils (and optionally any additional components attached to the components to hold them in place, such as Fig.16 and Fig.17 Another PCB / substrate in the Fig.18A and 18B The assembly may be sold / shipped and the current-carrying conductors may be installed on site, such as at a property where the assembly is used to measure current. Alternatively, it may include current-carrying conductors, such as busbars or poles, which may then be connected or coupled to any other suitable assembly or device on site, such as at a property.

[0131] A current-carrying conductor is a conductor that is capable of or suitable for carrying an electric current. The term does not mean that the conductor actually carries an electric current at any given moment, or that it always carries an electric current. In many cases, a current-carrying conductor may not carry current at all.

[0132] In each of the above examples, the current measuring coils are typically Rogowski coils. However, they can also be any other type of current measuring coil formed on a substrate or PCB. In addition, the arrangement of the current measuring coils can be applied to current sensors or measuring coils that are not implemented on a PCB.

[0133] The holes and openings described throughout the application are sized so that they are suitable for conductors to pass through at an angle perpendicular to the substrate. However, they are not necessarily sized so that conductors can pass through only at an angle perpendicular to the substrate. The holes or openings can be sized so that conductors can pass through at an angle perpendicular to the substrate, or at an angle different from perpendicular to the substrate. For example, the holes or openings can be sized to allow conductors to pass through at an angle of 5, 10, 20, 30, 45 degrees from normal, and still be suitable for conductors to pass through at an angle perpendicular to the substrate.

[0134] Numbering

[0135] Included below is a series of numbered aspects of the disclosure:

[0136] 1. A current sensor assembly, comprising:

[0137] The first substrate comprises:

[0138] a first hole for receiving a first current-carrying conductor passing through the first hole at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate;

[0139] a first current measuring coil formed on the first substrate, the first current measuring coil being arranged around a circumference of the first hole;

[0140] a second hole for receiving a second current carrying conductor therethrough at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate;

[0141] a second current measuring coil formed on the first substrate, the second current measuring coil being arranged around a circumference of the second hole; and

[0142] a first opening between the first hole and the second hole, wherein the first opening between the first hole and the second hole is configured to receive a third current carrying conductor through the first opening at an angle perpendicular to a surface of the first substrate; and

[0143] The second substrate comprises:

[0144] a third hole for receiving a third current carrying conductor therethrough at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the second substrate; and

[0145] A third current measuring coil is formed on the second substrate, and the third current measuring coil is arranged around the circumference of the third hole.

[0146] 2. The current sensor assembly according to claim 1, wherein:

[0147] The second substrate further comprises:

[0148] a fourth hole for receiving a fourth current-carrying conductor passing through the fourth hole at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the second substrate;

[0149] A fourth current measuring coil is formed on the second substrate, and the fourth current measuring coil is formed on the second substrate, and the fourth current measuring coil is arranged around the circumference of the fourth hole.

[0150] 3. The current sensor assembly according to aspect 1, further comprising:

[0151] The third substrate comprises:

[0152] a fourth hole for receiving a fourth current-carrying conductor passing through the fourth hole at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the third substrate;

[0153] A fourth current measuring coil is formed on the third substrate, a fourth current measuring coil is formed on the second substrate, and the fourth current measuring coil is arranged around the circumference of the fourth hole.

[0154] 4. The current sensor assembly according to aspect 2, wherein the second substrate further comprises:

[0155] The second opening is located between the third current measuring coil and the fourth current measuring coil, and is used for receiving a second current carrying conductor passing through the second opening at an angle perpendicular to a surface of the second substrate.

[0156] 5. The current sensor assembly according to aspect 2 or aspect 3, wherein the first opening between the first hole and the second hole is further configured to receive a fourth current carrying conductor passing through the first opening at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate.

[0157] 6. The current sensor assembly according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the first current measuring coil and the third current measuring coil overlap when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the surfaces of the first substrate and the second substrate.

[0158] 7. A current sensor assembly according to any preceding aspect, wherein the first measuring coil has a first radius, the second measuring coil has a second radius, and the third measuring coil has a third radius, and

[0159] The first substrate and the second substrate are arranged such that a distance between the first hole and the third hole in a direction parallel to a surface of the first substrate is smaller than a sum of the first radius and the third radius.

[0160] 8. A current sensor assembly according to any preceding aspect, wherein each hole has a circular cross-section.

[0161] 9. A current sensor assembly according to any preceding aspect, wherein the first opening has a rectangular cross-section.

[0162] 10. The current sensor assembly according to any one of clauses 1 to 8, wherein the first opening is a cut-away portion of the first substrate.

[0163] 11. The current sensor assembly according to any of the preceding aspects, further comprising:

[0164] a first current-carrying conductor passing through the first hole;

[0165] a second current carrying conductor extending through the second hole; and

[0166] A third current carrying conductor passes through the third hole and the first opening.

[0167] 12. The current sensor assembly of aspect 11, wherein the first end of the current carrying conductor has a first cross-section and the central portion of the current carrying conductor has a second cross-section.

[0168] 13. The current sensor assembly of aspect 12, wherein the first cross-section is a rectangular cross-section, and wherein the second cross-section is a circular cross-section.

[0169] 14. A current measurement system, comprising:

[0170] The first substrate comprises:

[0171] First hole;

[0172] a first current measuring coil formed on the first substrate and surrounding the first hole;

[0173] Second hole;

[0174] a second current measuring coil formed on the first substrate and surrounding the second hole;

[0175] First opening;

[0176] The second substrate comprises:

[0177] The third hole;

[0178] a third current measuring coil formed on the second substrate and surrounding the third hole;

[0179] a first current carrying conductor;

[0180] a second current carrying conductor;

[0181] a third current carrying conductor; and

[0182] The first substrate and the second substrate are aligned such that the first current carrying conductor passes through the first hole, the second current carrying conductor passes through the second hole, and the third current carrying conductor passes through the first opening and the third hole.

[0183] 15. The current measurement system of aspect 14, wherein:

[0184] The second substrate further comprises:

[0185] Fourth hole;

[0186] a fourth current measuring coil formed on the second substrate and surrounding the second hole;

[0187] Second opening; and

[0188] The current measurement system includes a fourth current carrying conductor;

[0189] The first substrate and the second substrate are aligned such that the fourth current-carrying conductor passes through the fourth hole and the second current-carrying conductor passes through the second opening.

[0190] 16. The current measurement system according to aspect 15, further comprising:

[0191] a first terminal block coupled to a first end of the first current carrying conductor;

[0192] a second terminal block coupled to the first end of the second current carrying conductor;

[0193] a third terminal block coupled to the first end of the third current carrying conductor;

[0194] A fourth terminal block is coupled to the first end of the fourth current carrying conductor.

[0195] 17. The current measurement system of aspect 16, wherein the first end of the current carrying conductor has a rectangular cross-section.

[0196] 18. A current measurement system, comprising:

[0197] The first substrate comprises:

[0198] First hole;

[0199] a first current measuring coil formed on the first substrate, the first current measuring coil being arranged around a circumference of the first hole;

[0200] Second hole;

[0201] a second current measuring coil formed on the first substrate, the second current measuring coil being arranged around a circumference of the second hole;

[0202] a first opening between the first hole and the second hole; and

[0203] The second substrate comprises:

[0204] The third hole;

[0205] a third current measuring coil formed on the second substrate, the third current measuring coil being arranged around the circumference of the third hole;

[0206] Fourth hole;

[0207] a fourth current measuring coil formed on the second substrate, the fourth current measuring coil formed on the second substrate, the fourth current measuring coil being arranged around the circumference of the fourth hole;

[0208] a second opening located between the third hole and the fourth hole; and

[0209] The first substrate and the second substrate are positioned such that the first opening is aligned with the third hole, and the second opening is aligned with the second hole.

[0210] 19. The current measurement system of aspect 18, wherein the first current measurement coil abuts an edge of the first substrate, and wherein the fourth current measurement coil abuts an edge of the second substrate.

[0211] 20. The current measuring coil according to aspect 18 or aspect 19, wherein the first opening and the second opening are opening-side openings.

Claims

1. A current sensor assembly, comprising: The first substrate comprises: a first hole for receiving a first current-carrying conductor passing through the first hole at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate; a first current measuring coil formed on the first substrate, the first current measuring coil being arranged around a circumference of the first hole; a second hole for receiving a second current carrying conductor therethrough at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the first substrate; a second current measuring coil formed on the first substrate, the second current measuring coil being arranged around a circumference of the second hole; and a first opening between the first hole and the second hole, wherein the first opening is configured to receive a third current carrying conductor passing through the first opening at an angle perpendicular to a surface of the first substrate; and The second substrate comprises: a third hole for receiving a third current carrying conductor therethrough at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the second substrate; and A third current measuring coil is formed on the second substrate, and the third current measuring coil is arranged around the circumference of the third hole.

2. The current sensor assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The second substrate further comprises: a fourth hole for receiving a fourth current-carrying conductor passing through the fourth hole at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the second substrate; A fourth current measuring coil is formed on the second substrate, and the fourth current measuring coil is arranged around the circumference of the fourth hole.

3. The current sensor assembly according to claim 1, further comprising: The third substrate comprises: a fourth hole for receiving a fourth current-carrying conductor passing through the fourth hole at an angle perpendicular to the surface of the third substrate; A fourth current measuring coil is formed on the third substrate, a fourth current measuring coil is formed on the second substrate, and the fourth current measuring coil is arranged around the circumference of the fourth hole.

4. The current sensor assembly of claim 2, wherein the second substrate further comprises: The second opening is located between the third current measuring coil and the fourth current measuring coil, and is used for receiving a second current carrying conductor passing through the second opening at an angle perpendicular to a surface of the second substrate. 5 . The current sensor assembly of claim 2 , wherein a first opening between the first hole and the second hole is further configured to receive a fourth current carrying conductor through the first opening at an angle perpendicular to the first substrate surface. 6 . The current sensor package of claim 1 , wherein the first current measuring coil and the third current measuring coil overlap when viewed in a direction perpendicular to surfaces of the first substrate and the second substrate.

7. The current sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the first measuring coil has a first radius, the second measuring coil has a second radius, and the third measuring coil has a third radius, and The first substrate and the second substrate are arranged such that a distance between the first hole and the third hole in a direction parallel to a surface of the first substrate is smaller than a sum of the first radius and the third radius.

8. The current sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein each hole has a circular cross-section. 9 . The current sensor assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first opening has a rectangular cross-section. 10 . The current sensor package of claim 1 , wherein the first opening is a cut-away portion of the first substrate.

11. The current sensor assembly of claim 1 , further comprising: a first current-carrying conductor passing through the first hole; a second current carrying conductor passing through the second hole; and A third current carrying conductor passes through the third hole and the first opening. 12 . The current sensor assembly of claim 11 , wherein the first end of the current carrying conductor has a first cross-section and the center portion of the current carrying conductor has a second cross-section. 13 . The current sensor assembly of claim 12 , wherein the first cross-section is a rectangular cross-section, and wherein the second cross-section is a circular cross-section.

14. A current measurement system, comprising: The first substrate comprises: First hole; a first current measuring coil formed on the first substrate and surrounding the first hole; Second hole; a second current measuring coil formed on the first substrate and surrounding the second hole; First opening; The second substrate comprises: The third hole; a third current measuring coil formed on the second substrate and surrounding the third hole; a first current carrying conductor; a second current carrying conductor; a third current carrying conductor; and The first substrate and the second substrate are aligned such that the first current-carrying conductor passes through the first hole, the second current-carrying conductor passes through the second hole, and the third current-carrying conductor passes through the first opening and the third hole.

15. The current measurement system according to claim 14, wherein: The second substrate further comprises: Fourth hole; a fourth current measuring coil formed on the second substrate and surrounding the second hole; The second opening; and The current measurement system includes a fourth current carrying conductor; The first substrate and the second substrate are aligned such that the fourth current-carrying conductor passes through the fourth hole and the second current-carrying conductor passes through the second opening.

16. The current measurement system according to claim 15, further comprising: a first terminal block coupled to a first end of the first current carrying conductor; a second terminal block coupled to the first end of the second current carrying conductor; a third terminal block coupled to the first end of the third current carrying conductor; A fourth terminal block is coupled to the first end of the fourth current carrying conductor.

17. The current measurement system of claim 16, wherein the first end of the current carrying conductor has a rectangular cross-section.

18. A current measurement system, comprising: The first substrate comprises: First hole; a first current measuring coil formed on the first substrate, the first current measuring coil being arranged around a circumference of the first hole; Second hole; a second current measuring coil formed on the first substrate, the second current measuring coil being arranged around a circumference of the second hole; a first opening between the first hole and the second hole; and The second substrate comprises: The third hole; a third current measuring coil formed on the second substrate, the third current measuring coil being arranged around the circumference of the third hole; Fourth hole; a fourth current measuring coil formed on the second substrate, the fourth current measuring coil formed on the second substrate, the fourth current measuring coil being arranged around the circumference of the fourth hole; a second opening located between the third hole and the fourth hole; and The first substrate and the second substrate are positioned such that the first opening is aligned with the third hole, and the second opening is aligned with the second hole.

19. The current measurement system of claim 18, wherein the first current measurement coil abuts an edge of the first substrate, and wherein the fourth current measurement coil abuts an edge of the second substrate. 20 . The current measuring coil according to claim 18 , wherein the first opening and the second opening are opening-side openings.

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