Electrical sensor assembly

Abstract

A sensor assembly includes: a connecting rod extending along a longitudinal axis; and a tubular body extending along the longitudinal axis and at least partially surrounding the connecting rod such that the tubular body is radially spaced from the connecting rod. The tubular body includes a support member made of an insulating material. The tubular body also includes a first section having an electric field sensor for detecting an electric field generated by the connecting rod, the electric field sensor including a first layer of electrically conductive material on an inner surface of the support member. The first section also includes a first electrical shield for protecting the electric field sensor from external electrical interference, the first electrical shield including a second layer of conductive material on an outer surface of the support member. A second section disposed adjacent the first section includes a second electrical shield. A dielectric material at least partially surrounds the tubular body.

Description

Divisional application

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese patent application with application number 201980083338.9. The application date of the above-mentioned Chinese patent application is December 17, 2019, and the name of the invention is "Electric Sensor Assembly". CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Italian Patent Application No. 102018000011146, filed on December 17, 2018, and Italian Utility Model Application No. 202018000003942, filed on December 17, 2018, the entire contents of both applications are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an electric sensor assembly preferably intended for use in power transformers, electrical cabinets and other similar structures, which enables detection of an electric field generated by an energized connecting rod, for example detection of a voltage value of the connecting rod related to the detected electric field.

[0004] More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a sensor assembly capable of detecting the electric field generated by a connecting rod without being affected by any surrounding electric fields, such as fields generated by other conductors arranged nearby. Background Art

[0005] Electrical sensor assemblies of the above-mentioned type are known but suffer from a number of disadvantages.

[0006] A first disadvantage is that the known sensor assembly does not allow the electric field generated by the connecting rod to be detected without being influenced by other surrounding fields.

[0007] A second disadvantage is that the known sensor assembly is somewhat bulky.

[0008] A third disadvantage is that the known sensor assemblies do not allow for measuring the electric field and / or the associated magnitude with sufficient accuracy.

[0009] A fourth disadvantage is that the known sensor assembly is not immune to surrounding electric fields, for example generated by other conductors arranged nearby.

[0010] A fifth disadvantage is that the known sensor assemblies do not allow the electric field and / or the associated magnitude to be measured with sufficient accuracy in the presence of temperature changes.

[0011] A sixth disadvantage is that the known sensor assemblies do not retain the technical characteristics required to perform the function of the sensor assembly and / or maintain the required safety level (partial discharges, separation, rapid aging, etc.) over time.

[0012] A seventh disadvantage is that the known sensor assembly is complex and expensive to manufacture.

[0013] An eighth disadvantage is that, in the known sensor assembly, the dielectric material resin placed around the components of the sensor assembly has cavities (bubbles), which can lead to undesirable partial discharges.

[0014] A ninth disadvantage is that, in the known sensor assembly, the resin separates from the elements comprising the capacitive sensor, which may lead to undesirable partial discharges.

[0015] A tenth disadvantage is that in the known sensor assembly, the resin is not fully bonded and / or adhered to and / or connected to the components forming the sensor assembly and therefore, aging can cause the resin to become separated from the components, which can lead to undesirable partial discharges. This disadvantage is particularly common in the case of sensor assemblies used in environments where the operating temperature (hot / cold) changes cyclically. Summary of the invention

[0016] A sensor assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure may advantageously address one or more of the above-mentioned disadvantages.

[0017] For example, in one aspect, the present disclosure provides a sensor assembly, the sensor assembly comprising: a connecting rod extending along a longitudinal axis; and a tubular body extending along the longitudinal axis and at least partially surrounding the connecting rod, so that the tubular body is radially spaced from the connecting rod. The tubular body comprises a support member made of an insulating material. The support member comprises an inner surface and an outer surface opposite to the inner surface. The tubular body also comprises a first section having an electric field sensor, the electric field sensor comprising a first conductive material layer disposed on the inner surface of the support member. The electric field sensor is configured to detect an electric field generated by the connecting rod. The first section also comprises a first electrical shield, the first electrical shield comprising a second conductive material layer disposed on the outer surface of the support member, and the first electrical shield is configured to protect the electric field sensor from external electrical interference. The tubular body also comprises a second section, the second section is disposed adjacent to the first section along the longitudinal axis, the second section comprising a second electrical shield. The sensor assembly further comprises a dielectric material, the dielectric material at least partially surrounding the tubular body.

[0018] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a sensor assembly, the sensor assembly comprising: a connecting rod extending along a longitudinal axis; and a tubular body extending along the longitudinal axis and at least partially surrounding the connecting rod, so that the tubular body is radially spaced from the connecting rod. The tubular body comprises a support member, the support member is made of an insulating material, the support member comprises an inner surface, an outer surface opposite to the inner surface, and a plurality of cantilevered tabs extending parallel to the longitudinal axis. The tubular body also comprises: an electric field sensor, the electric field sensor comprising a first conductive material layer disposed on the inner surface of the support member, the electric field sensor being configured to detect an electric field generated by the connecting rod; and a first electric shield, the first electric shield comprising a second conductive material layer disposed on the outer surface of the support member, the first electric shield being configured to protect the electric field sensor from external electrical interference. The sensor assembly also comprises a dielectric material, the dielectric material at least partially surrounding the tubular body. Adjacent tabs of the plurality of cantilevered tabs are circumferentially spaced apart so as to form an axial through opening between the adjacent tabs.

[0019] On the other hand, the present disclosure provides a sensor assembly, the sensor assembly comprising: a connecting rod extending along a longitudinal axis; and a body extending along the longitudinal axis and at least partially surrounding the connecting rod, so that the body is radially spaced from the connecting rod. The body comprises a support member made of an insulating material and an inner surface and an outer surface. The body also comprises: a first section, the first section having an electric field sensor, the electric field sensor comprising a first conductive material layer disposed on the inner surface of the support member, the electric field sensor being configured to detect an electric field generated by the connecting rod; and a first electric shield, the first electric shield comprising a second conductive material layer disposed on the outer surface of the support member. The body also comprises: a second section, the second section having a second electric shield, the second electric shield comprising a third conductive material layer; and a third section, the third section comprising a third electric shield, the third electric shield comprising a fourth conductive material layer. The sensor assembly also comprises a dielectric material, the dielectric material at least partially surrounding the body. The first section is disposed between the second section and the third section along the longitudinal axis, and the first layer, the second layer, the third layer, and the fourth layer are electrically isolated from each other.

[0020] Other features and aspects of the disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 1A yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a tubular body in an embodiment of the present invention lying flat;

[0023] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 2A yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a tubular body in an embodiment of the present invention lying flat;

[0025] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 3A yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a tubular body in an embodiment of the present invention lying flat;

[0027] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a fourth embodiment of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 4A yes Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a tubular body in an embodiment of the present invention lying flat;

[0029] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a fifth embodiment of a sensor assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 5A yes Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the tubular body in the embodiment lying flat.

[0031] Before explaining any embodiment of the present disclosure in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the construction details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or shown in the following figures. The present disclosure can have other embodiments and can be practiced or carried out in various ways. Moreover, it should be understood that the words and terms used herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be considered as limiting. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Reference Figures 1 to 5A According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the sensor assembly extends along a first longitudinal axis Y1 and includes a connecting rod B extending longitudinally along a corresponding second longitudinal axis Y2; a tubular body extending longitudinally along a third longitudinal axis Y3; a large amount of dielectric material 40.1 / 40.2 / 40.3 / 40.4 / 40.5, wherein the large amount of dielectric material is designed to at least partially surround the components of the sensor assembly, in which the tubular body is coaxially positioned around the connecting rod B and radially spaced apart from the central connecting rod B.

[0033] Again, refer to the attached Figures 1 to 5A , the tubular body has a first tubular section 10.1 / 10.2 / 10.3 / 10.4 / 10.5, and in the embodiment shown, the first tubular section includes: a first self-supporting tubular layered element or supporting member 11.1 / 11.2 / 11.3 / 11.4 / 11.5 made of insulating material; a first thin layer of conductive material 12.1 / 12.2 / 12.3 / 12.4 / 12.5 applied to one or more inner faces of the first self-supporting tubular layered element 11.1 / 11.2 / 11.3 / 11.4 / 11.5; and a second thin layer of conductive material 13.1 / 13.2 / 13.3 / 13.4 / 13.5 applied to one or more outer faces of the first self-supporting tubular layered element 11.1 / 11.2 / 11.3 / 11.4 / 11.5.

[0034] The first self-supporting tubular laminar element 11.1 / 11.2 / 11.3 / 11.4 / 11.5 may perform the function of a support structure and more specifically the function of a tubular element that is less susceptible to deformation when casting the resin and using the conductive material layer to provide support.

[0035] The first thin layers of conductive material 12.1 / 12.2 / 12.3 / 12.4 / 12.5 can act as electric field sensors and more specifically can form a first electrode for capacitive coupling with the central rod B as a second electrode.

[0036] The second thin layer of conductive material 13.1 / 13.2 / 13.3 / 13.4 / 13.5 can act as an electrical shield, and more specifically, act as an electrical shield by being grounded or connected to a known potential, which can shield or protect the electric field sensor formed by the first thin layer of conductive material 12.1 / 12.2 / 12.3 / 12.4 / 12.5 from external electric fields or interference.

[0037] The tubular body of the sensor assembly may also include a second tubular section 20.1 / 20.2 / 20.3 / 20.4 / 20.5; in the tubular body, the second tubular section 20.1 / 20.2 / 20.3 / 20.4 / 20.5 is axially positioned next to the first axial end (10sx) of the first tubular section 10.1 / 10.2 / 10.3 / 10.4 / 10.5; in the tubular body, the second tubular section 20.1 / 20.2 / 20.3 / 20.4 / 20.5 may act as an electrical shield by being grounded or connected to a reference potential, as explained below.

[0038] In addition, the tubular body of the sensor assembly may also include a third tubular section 30.1 / 30.2 / 30.3 / 30.4 / 30.5; in the tubular body, the third tubular section (30.1 / 30.2 / 30.3 / 30.4 / 30.5) is axially positioned next to the second axial end 10dx of the first tubular section 10.1 / 10.2 / 10.3 / 10.4 / 10.5; in the tubular body, the third tubular section 30.1 / 30.2 / 30.3 / 30.4 / 30.5 may act as an electrical shield by being grounded or connected to a reference potential.

[0039] The second tubular section 20.1 / 20.2 / 20.3 / 20.4 / 20.5 and / or the third tubular section 30.1 / 30.2 / 30.3 / 30.4 / 30.5 may also perform the function of an electric field sensor to detect the presence or absence of a voltage on the connecting rod B.

[0040] The second tubular section 20.1 / 20.2 / 20.3 / 20.4 / 20.5 and / or the third tubular section 30.1 / 30.2 / 30.3 / 30.4 / 30.5 are associated with and / or connected to the first tubular section 10.1 / 10.2 / 10.3 / 10.4 / 10.5. Preferably, the first tubular section 10.1 / 10.2 / 10.3 / 10.4 / 10.5 and / or the second tubular section 20.1 / 20.2 / 20.3 / 20.4 / 20.5 and / or the third tubular section 30.1 / 30.2 / 30.3 / 30.4 / 30.5 comprise one or more through openings 14.1 / 14.2 / 14.3 / 14.4 / 14.5 / 21.1 / 21.2 / 21.3 / 2 1.4 / 21.4 / 31.1 / 31.2 / 31.3 / 31.4 / 31.5, the one or more through openings are wide enough to allow the dielectric material resin in a liquid / paste state to pass through the first through openings 14.1 / 14.2 / 14.3 / 14.4 / 14.5; 21.1 / 21.2 / 21.3 / 21.4 / 21.5; 31.1 / 31.2 / 31.3 / 31.4 / 31.4 / 31.5.

[0041] refer to Figure 1 and 1A, the first tubular section 10.1 can be made of a conductive double-sided Vetronite board (for example, a double-sided copper Vetronite board-PCB), the first tubular section comprising a self-supporting insulating material sheet 11.1 capable of performing a supporting function, a first conductive material thin inner layer 12.1 applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 11.1 separated from other conductive material layers, and a first conductive material thin outer layer 13.1 applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 11.1; in the first tubular section, the first thin inner layer 12.1 can act as an electric field sensor, i.e., used to form a capacitive coupling with the rod B; and in the first tubular section, the first thin outer layer 13.1 can act as an electrical shield, for example by grounding.

[0042] Preferably, the axial length D1.1 of the first conductive material thin inner layer 12.1 is smaller than the axial length D2.1 of the first conductive material thin outer layer 13.1, preferably but not limited to: Figure 1A shown.

[0043] With reference to the above structural description, the first tubular section 10.1 may be made using a single conductive double-sided Vitreous board (eg double-sided copper Vitreous board - PCB) etched, for example, by photolithography or mechanical grinding and wrapped into a tubular shape.

[0044] Reference again Figures 1 to 1A , the second tubular section 20.1 and / or the third tubular section 30.1 can be made of a metal wire mesh, preferably a metal wire mesh that is electrically disconnected from other conductive elements, wherein the metal wire mesh can be grounded to perform the function of an electrical shield, and wherein, when desired, the metal wire mesh can form a capacitive coupling with the rod B to detect the presence or absence of a voltage on the rod B.

[0045] refer to Figure 2 and 2A , the sensor assembly, and more specifically the tubular body comprising the first, second and third tubular sections 20.2 / 10.2 / 30.2, may comprise: a self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.2 / 11.2 / 33.2 capable of performing a supporting function; a first conductive material thin inner layer 12.2 applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.2 / 11.2 / 33.2 and electrically disconnected from other conductive material layers; a first conductive material thin outer layer 25.2 applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.2 / 11.2 / 33.2; a second conductive material thin outer layer 13.2 applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.2 / 11.2 / 33.2; a third conductive material thin outer layer 35.2 applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.2 / 11.2 / 33.2, wherein the layers have a specific axial length, preferably but not limited to as Figure 2A shown.

[0046] The first thin inner layer 12.2 can act as an electric field sensor, i.e., for forming a capacitive coupling with rod B; the first thin outer layer 25.2 can act as an electric shield, for example, by being grounded and / or by detecting the presence or absence of a voltage on rod B; the second thin outer layer 13.2 can act as an electric shield, for example, by being grounded; the third thin outer layer 35.2 can act as an electric shield, for example, by being grounded; and / or by detecting the presence or absence of a voltage on rod B.

[0047] Preferably, referring to the above structural description, the first tubular section 10.2, the second tubular section 20.2 and the third tubular section 30.2 are made of a single conductive double-sided Vitreous board (e.g., double-sided copper Vitreous board-PCB) etched by photolithography or mechanical grinding and wrapped into a tubular shape.

[0048] refer to Figure 3 and 3A , the sensor assembly, and more specifically the tubular body comprising the first, second and third tubular sections 20.3 / 10.3 / 30.3, may comprise: a self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.3 / 11.3 / 33.3 capable of performing the function of a supporting sheet; a first thin inner layer 24.3 of conductive material applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.3 / 11.3 / 33.3; a second thin inner layer 12.3 of conductive material applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.3 / 11.3 / 33.3 and electrically disconnected from other conductive material layers; a third thin inner layer 34.3 of conductive material applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.3 / 11.3 / 33.3; a first thin outer layer 13.3 of conductive material applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.3 / 11.3 / 33.3; wherein the layers have a specific axial length, preferably but not limited to as Figure 3A shown.

[0049] The first thin inner layer 24 . 3 may act as an electrical shield, for example by grounding and / or by the function of detecting the presence or absence of a voltage on the rod B.

[0050] The second thin inner layer 12 . 3 can act as an electric field sensor, ie for forming a capacitive coupling with the rod B.

[0051] The third thin inner layer 34 . 3 of conductive material may act as an electrical shield, for example by grounding and / or by the function of detecting the presence or absence of a voltage on the rod B.

[0052] The first thin outer layer 13 . 3 may act as an electrical shield, for example by being grounded.

[0053] Preferably, referring to the above structural description, the first tubular section 10.3, the second tubular section 20.3 and the third tubular section 30.3 can be made using a single conductive double-sided Vitreous board (e.g., a double-sided copper Vitreous board-PCB) etched by, for example, photolithography or mechanical grinding and wrapped into a tubular shape.

[0054] refer to Figure 4-4A and 5-5A, the second tubular section 20.4 / 20.5 and / or the third tubular section 30.4 / 30.5 comprises one or more cantilevered tabs 22.4, 32.4 / 22.5, 32.5.

[0055] More specifically, refer to Figure 4-4A and 5-5A, a sensor assembly according to the present invention, wherein the sensor assembly extends along a first longitudinal axis Y1, wherein the sensor assembly comprises: a connecting rod B extending longitudinally along a corresponding second longitudinal axis Y2; a tubular body extending longitudinally along a third longitudinal axis Y3; a large amount of dielectric material 40.4 / 40.5 designed to at least partially surround a component of the sensor assembly; wherein the tubular body is coaxially positioned around the connecting rod B; wherein the tubular body is radially spaced apart from the central connecting rod B; the sensor assembly has a tubular body having one or more cantilevered tabs 22.4, 32.4 / 22.5, 32.5.

[0056] The tabs 22.4, 32.4 / 22.5, 32.5 are preferably axially oriented Y4 such that their free ends 23.4, 33.4 / 23.5, 33.5 form at least one axial end of the tubular body, thereby forming a sawtooth-shaped axial end.

[0057] Again preferably, two or more tabs 22.4 / 22.4, 32.4 / 32.4 / 22.5 / 22.5, 32.5 / 32.5 positioned side by side are provided, wherein an axial edge of a first tab 22.4, 32.4 / 22.5, 32.5 is circumferentially spaced D4.4 / D4.5 from an axial edge of a second tab 22.4, 32.4 / 22.5, 32.5 positioned adjacent to the first tab 22.4, 32.4 / 22.5, 32.5 to form an axial through-opening 21.4 / 21.5.

[0058] The through opening 21 . 4 is wide enough to allow the dielectric material resin in a liquid / paste state to pass through the through opening 21 . 4 .

[0059] Again preferably, the tabs 22.4, 32.4 / 22.5, 32.5 are flexible and more particularly have a degree of flexibility chosen having regard to the shrinkage characteristics of the resin used in casting, so that the tabs can flex during the resin shrinkage phase occurring during curing of the resin.

[0060] refer to Figure 4 and 4A , the sensor assembly, and more specifically the tubular body including the first, second and third tubular sections 20.4 / 10.4 / 30.4, may include: a self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.4 / 11.4 / 33.4 capable of performing a supporting function; a first conductive material thin inner layer 12.4 applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.4 / 11.4 / 33.4 and electrically disconnected from other conductive material layers; a first conductive material thin outer layer 25.4 applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.4 / 11.4 / 33.4; a second conductive material thin outer layer 13.4 applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.4 / 11.4 / 33.4; and a third conductive material thin outer layer 35.4 applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.4 / 11.4 / 33.4.

[0061] The first thin inner layer 12 . 4 can act as an electric field sensor, ie for forming a capacitive coupling with the rod B.

[0062] The first thin outer layer 25 . 4 may act as an electrical shield, for example by grounding and / or by the function of detecting the presence or absence of a voltage on the rod B.

[0063] The second thin outer layer 13 . 4 may act as an electrical shield, for example by being grounded.

[0064] The third thin outer layer 35 . 4 may act as an electrical shield, for example by grounding and / or by the function of detecting the presence or absence of a voltage on the rod B.

[0065] Preferably, referring to the above structural description, the first tubular section 10.4, the second tubular section 20.4 and the third tubular section 30.4 are made of a single double-sided copper veneer board (PCB) etched by photolithography or mechanical grinding and wrapped into a tubular shape.

[0066] refer to Figure 5 and 5A, the sensor assembly, and more specifically the tubular body including the first, second and third tubular sections 20.5 / 10.5 / 30.5, may include: a self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.5 / 11.5 / 33.5 capable of performing a supporting function; a first conductive material thin outer layer 13.5 applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.5 / 11.5 / 33.5; a first conductive material thin inner layer 24.5 applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.5 / 11.5 / 33.5; a second conductive material thin inner layer 12.5 applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.5 / 11.5 / 33.5; and a third conductive material thin inner layer 34.5 applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet 23.4 / 11.4 / 33.4.

[0067] The first thin outer layer 13 . 5 may act as an electrical shield, for example by being grounded.

[0068] The first thin inner layer 24 . 5 may act as an electrical shield, for example by grounding and / or by the function of detecting the presence or absence of a voltage on the rod B.

[0069] The second thin inner layer 12 . 5 can act as an electric field sensor, ie for forming a capacitive coupling with the rod B.

[0070] The third thin inner layer 34 . 5 may act as an electrical shield, for example by being connected to ground and / or by the function of detecting the presence or absence of a voltage on the rod B.

[0071] Preferably, referring to the above description, the first tubular section 10.5, the second tubular section 20.5 and the third tubular section 30.5 can be made using a single double-sided copper veneer board (PCB) etched by photolithography or mechanical grinding and wrapped into a tubular shape.

[0072] Although the present disclosure has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, there are variations and modifications within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects of the present disclosure as described. In addition, some aspects of the present disclosure may include but are not limited to:

[0073] Aspect 1. A sensor assembly for a through-isolator, wherein the sensor assembly extends along a first longitudinal axis (Y1), wherein the sensor assembly comprises: a connecting rod (B), the connecting rod extending longitudinally along a corresponding second longitudinal axis (Y2); a tubular body, the tubular body extending longitudinally along a third longitudinal axis (Y3); a large amount of dielectric material (4.1 / 40.2 / 40.3 / 40.4 / 40.5), the large amount of dielectric material being capable of at least partially incorporating components of the sensor assembly; wherein the tubular body is coaxially positioned around the connecting rod (B); wherein the tubular body is radially spaced relative to the central connecting rod (B); the sensor assembly The component is characterized in that the tubular body comprises a first tubular section (10.1 / 10.2 / 10.3 / 10.4 / 10.5), the first tubular section comprising: a first self-supporting tubular layered element (11.1 / 11.2 / 11.3 / 11.4 / 11.5) made of insulating material; a first thin layer of conductive material (12.1 / 12.2 / 12.3 / 12.4 / 12.5) applied to one or more inner faces of the first self-supporting tubular layered element (11.1 / 11.2 / 11.3 / 11.4 / 11.5); a first thin layer of conductive material (12.1 / 12.2 / 12.3 / 12.4 / 12.5) applied to one or more inner faces of the first self-supporting tubular layered element (11.1 / 11.2 / 11.3 / 11.4 / 11.5); the sensor assembly is characterized in that the first self-supporting tubular layered element (11.1 / 11.2 / 11.3 / 11.4 / 11.5) can perform the function of a supporting structure; the sensor assembly is characterized in that the first conductive material layer (12.1 / 12.2 / 12.3 / 12.4 / 12.5) can perform the function of an electric field sensor; the sensor assembly is characterized in that the second conductive material layer (13.1 / 13.2 / 13.3 / 13.4 / 13.5) is disposed on one or more external surfaces of the sensor assembly; ... 5) capable of performing an electrical shielding function; the sensor assembly is characterized in that it further includes a second tubular section (20.1 / 20.2 / 20.3 / 20.4 / 20.5); the sensor assembly is characterized in that the second tubular section (20.1 / 20.2 / 20.3 / 20.4 / 20.5) is axially positioned on the side of the first axial end (10sx) of the first tubular section (10.1 / 10.2 / 10.3 / 10.4 / 10.5); and the sensor assembly is characterized in that the second tubular section (20.1 / 20.2 / 20.3 / 20.4 / 20.5) is capable of performing an electrical shielding function.

[0074] Aspect 2. The sensor assembly according to Aspect 1 is characterized in that it further comprises a third tubular section (30.1 / 30.2 / 30.3 / 30.4 / 30.5); the sensor assembly is characterized in that the third tubular section (30.1 / 30.2 / 30.3 / 30.4 / 30.5) is axially positioned on the side of the second axial end (10dx) of the first tubular section (10.1 / 10.2 / 10.3 / 10.4 / 10.5); and the sensor assembly is characterized in that the third tubular section (30.1 / 30.2 / 30.3 / 30.4 / 30.5) is capable of performing an electrical shielding function.

[0075] Aspect 3. The sensor assembly according to aspect 1 or 2 is characterized in that the first tubular section (10.1) is made by double-sided pure copper PCB, and the sensor assembly is characterized in that the second tubular section (20.1) and / or the third tubular section (30.1) are made of metal wire mesh.

[0076] Aspect 4. A sensor assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 3, characterized in that it comprises: a self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.2 / 11.2 / 33.2), the self-supporting insulating material sheet being suitable for performing a supporting function; a first thin inner layer (12.2) of conductive material, the first thin inner layer of conductive material being applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.2 / 11.2 / 33.2) and being electrically disconnected relative to other conductive material layers; a first thin outer layer (25.2) of conductive material, the first thin outer layer of conductive material being applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.2 / 11.2 / 33.2); a second thin outer layer (13.2) of conductive material Two thin outer layers of conductive material are applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.2 / 11.2 / 33.2); and a third thin outer layer of conductive material (35.2), the third thin outer layer of conductive material is applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.2 / 11.2 / 33.2), and the sensor assembly is characterized in that the first thin inner layer (12.2) is capable of performing the function of a sensor of the electric field generated by the connecting rod (B), the first thin outer layer (25.2) is capable of performing the function of electric shielding, the second thin outer layer (13.2) is suitable for performing the function of electric shielding; and the third thin outer layer (35.2) is suitable for performing the function of electric shielding.

[0077] Aspect 5. The sensor assembly according to Aspect 4 is characterized in that the first tubular section (10.2), the second tubular section (20.2) and the third tubular section (30.2) are made by double-sided pure copper PCB.

[0078] Aspect 6. The sensor assembly according to aspect 1 or 2 is characterized in that it comprises: a self-supporting insulating material foil (23.3 / 11.3 / 33.3), the self-supporting insulating material foil being suitable for performing a supporting foil function; a first thin inner layer of conductive material (24.3), the first thin inner layer of conductive material being applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.3 / 11.3 / 33.3); a second thin inner layer of conductive material (12.3), the second thin inner layer of conductive material being applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.3 / 11.3 / 33.3) and being electrically disconnected from the other conductive material layers; a third thin inner layer of conductive material (33.3), the A third thin inner layer of conductive material is applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.3 / 11.3 / 33.3); a first thin outer layer of conductive material (13.3), the first thin outer layer of conductive material is applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.2 / 11.2 / 33.2); and the sensor assembly is characterized in that the first thin outer layer (24.3) is capable of performing an electric shielding function, the second thin outer layer (12.3) is capable of performing a sensor function of the electric field generated by the connecting rod (B), the third thin inner layer (34.3) is capable of performing an electric shielding function, and the first thin outer layer (13.3) is capable of performing an electric shielding function.

[0079] Aspect 7. The sensor assembly according to Aspect 6 is characterized in that the first tubular section (10.3), the second tubular section (20.3) and the third tubular section (30.3) are made by double-sided pure copper PCB.

[0080] Aspect 8. The sensor assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 7, characterized in that the second tubular section (20.4 / 20.5) and / or the third tubular section (30.4 / 30.5) comprises one or more tabs (22.4, 32.4 / 22.5, 32.5) supported in a cantilever manner.

[0081] Aspect 9. A sensor assembly for a through-isolator, wherein the sensor assembly extends along a first longitudinal axis (Y1), wherein the sensor assembly comprises: a connecting rod (B), the connecting rod extending longitudinally along a corresponding second longitudinal axis (Y2); a tubular body, the tubular body extending longitudinally along a third longitudinal axis (Y3); a volume of dielectric material (40.4 / 40.5), the volume of dielectric material being at least partially incorporated into the components of the sensor assembly; wherein the tubular body is coaxially positioned around the connecting rod (B); wherein the tubular body is radially spaced relative to the central connecting rod (B); the sensor assembly is characterized in that the tubular body comprises one or more tabs (22.4, 32.4 / 22.5, 32.5) supported in a cantilever manner.

[0082] Aspect 10. The sensor assembly according to aspect 8 or 9, characterized in that the tab (22.4, 32.4 / 22.5, 32.5) is axially oriented (Y4) so ​​that at least one axial end of the tubular body is provided with its free end (23.4, 33.4 / 23.5, 33.5).

[0083] Aspect 11. The sensor assembly according to aspect 8, 9 or 10, characterized by comprising two or more tabs (22.4 / 22.4, 32.4 / 32.4 / 22.5 / 22.5, 32.5 / 32.5) positioned side by side.

[0084] Aspect 12. The sensor assembly according to aspect 11 is characterized in that the axial edge of the first tab (22.4, 32.4 / 22.5, 32.5) is circumferentially spaced (D4.4 / D4.5) relative to the axial edge of the second tab (22.4, 32.4 / 22.5, 32.5) located adjacent to the first tab (22.4, 32.4 / 22.5, 32.5) to form an axial through-opening (21.4 / 21.5).

[0085] Aspect 13. The sensor assembly according to any one of aspects 8 to 12, characterized in that the tab (22.4, 32.4 / 22.5, 32.5) is flexible.

[0086] Aspect 14. The sensor assembly according to any one of aspects 1 to 13, wherein at least one axial end of the tubular body has a certain shape.

[0087] Aspect 15. A sensor assembly according to any one of aspects 8 to 14, characterized in that it comprises: a self-supporting insulating material foil (23.4 / 11.4 / 33.4), the self-supporting insulating material foil being capable of performing a supporting function; a first thin inner layer of conductive material (12.4), the first thin inner layer of conductive material being electrically applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.4 / 11.4 / 33.4) and being disconnected from other conductive material layers; a first thin outer layer of conductive material (25.4), the first thin outer layer of conductive material being applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.2 / 11.2 / 33.2); a second thin outer layer of conductive material (13.4) , the second thin outer layer of conductive material is applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.4 / 11.4 / 33.4); a third thin outer layer of conductive material (35.4), the third thin outer layer of conductive material is applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.4 / 11.4 / 33.4); and the sensor assembly is characterized in that the first thin inner layer (12.4) is capable of detecting the electric field generated by the connecting rod (B), the first thin outer layer (25.4) is capable of performing an electric shielding function, the second thin outer layer (13.4) is capable of performing an electric shielding function, and the third thin outer layer (35.4) is capable of performing an electric shielding function.

[0088] Aspect 16. The sensor assembly according to Aspect 15 is characterized in that the first tubular section (10.4), the second tubular section (20.4) and the third tubular section (30.4) are made by double-sided pure copper PCB.

[0089] Aspect 17. A sensor assembly according to any one of aspects 8 to 24, characterized in that it comprises: a self-supporting insulating material foil (23.5 / 11.5 / 33.5), the self-supporting insulating material foil being suitable for performing a supporting function; a first thin outer layer (13.5) of conductive material, the first thin outer layer of conductive material being applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.5 / 11.5 / 33.5); a first thin inner layer (24.5) of conductive material, the first thin inner layer of conductive material being applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.5 / 11.5 / 33.5); a second thin inner layer (12.5) of conductive material, the second thin inner layer of conductive material being applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.5 / 11.5 / 33.5); A thin inner layer of material is applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.5 / 11.5 / 33.5); a third thin inner layer of conductive material (34.5), the third thin inner layer of conductive material is applied to the self-supporting insulating material sheet (23.4 / 11.4 / 33.4); and the sensor assembly is characterized in that the first thin outer layer (13.5) is capable of performing an electric shielding function, the first thin inner layer (24.5) is capable of performing an electric shielding function, the second thin inner layer (12.5) is capable of performing an electric field generated by the connecting rod (B), and the third thin inner layer (34.5) is capable of performing an electric shielding function.

[0090] Aspect 18. The sensor assembly according to Aspect 17 is characterized in that the first tubular section (10.5), the second tubular section (20.5) and the third tubular section (30.5) are made of double-sided pure copper PCB.

[0091] Various features of the disclosure are set out in the following claims.

Claims

1. A sensor assembly, comprising: an electrode extending along a longitudinal axis; a tubular section extending along the longitudinal axis and at least partially surrounding the electrode such that the tubular section is radially spaced from the electrode, a mass of dielectric material extending along said longitudinal axis, Wherein, the tubular section comprises: a tubular support member comprising an electrically insulating material, the tubular support member having a first dimension extending along the longitudinal axis, wherein the tubular support member at least partially surrounds the electrode such that the tubular support member is radially spaced from the electrode; an inner conductive material disposed on an inner surface of the tubular support member, wherein the inner conductive material has a second dimension extending along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the inner conductive material is configured to function as an electric field sensor to capacitively couple with the electrode; and a first tubular electrical shield disposed on an outer surface of the tubular support member, wherein the first tubular electrical shield has a third dimension extending along the longitudinal axis and is electrically isolated from the inner conductive material; and a second tubular electrical shield extending beyond an axial end of the tubular support member in a direction along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the second tubular electrical shield is electrically isolated from the inner conductive material, wherein the volume of dielectric material at least partially surrounds the electrode and the tubular support member, the inner conductive material, and the first and second tubular electrical shields.

2. The sensor assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The second tubular electrical shield is configured as a metal mesh.

3. The sensor assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The second tubular electrical shield is configured as a wire mesh.

4. The sensor assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The first size is greater than the second size.

5. The sensor assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The third size is greater than the second size.

6. The sensor assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The first tubular electric shield at least partially surrounds the electrode and the inner conductive material such that the first tubular electric shield is radially spaced from the electrode and extends in an axial direction beyond an axial end of the inner conductive material, and wherein the second tubular electric shield at least partially surrounds the electrode such that the second tubular electric shield is radially spaced from the electrode.

7. The sensor assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The tubular support member includes a plurality of interconnected segments, each of the plurality of interconnected segments being circumferentially spaced from an adjacent segment to define a through opening therebetween, and wherein each of the plurality of interconnected segments extends radially outward from a center of the tubular support member, wherein each through opening is configured to enable passage of the volume of dielectric material during a casting process.

8. The sensor assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The tubular section includes a flexible printed circuit board wrapped in a tubular shape.

9. The sensor assembly according to claim 7, wherein: The plurality of interconnected segments are configured to flex during curing of the volume of dielectric material.

10. The sensor assembly according to claim 7 or 9, wherein: The plurality of interconnected segments is a first plurality of interconnected segments, each of which extends outwardly from the center of the tubular support member in a first axial direction, and further includes a second plurality of interconnected segments, each of which is circumferentially spaced from adjacent segments to define a through opening therebetween, and wherein each of the second plurality of interconnected segments extends outwardly from the center of the tubular support member in a second axial direction opposite to the first direction.

11. A sensor assembly comprising: a first electrode extending along a longitudinal axis; a tubular second electrode at least partially surrounding the first electrode such that the tubular second electrode is radially spaced apart from the first electrode, wherein the tubular second electrode is configured to function as an electric field sensor to form a capacitive coupling with the first electrode; a first tubular electrical shield extending along the longitudinal axis, wherein the first tubular electrical shield at least partially surrounds the tubular second electrode such that the first tubular electrical shield is radially spaced apart from and electrically isolated from the tubular second electrode; a second tubular electric shield, wherein the second tubular electric shield at least partially surrounds the first electrode such that the second tubular electric shield is radially spaced apart from the first electrode, wherein the second tubular electric shield extends in an axial direction beyond an axial end of the tubular second electrode; and a volume of dielectric material extending along the longitudinal axis and at least partially surrounding the first electrode, the tubular second electrode, and the first and second tubular electrical shields, Wherein, the second tubular electrical shield comprises a plurality of through openings, each through opening being configured to enable the mass of dielectric material to pass therethrough during a casting process.

12. The sensor assembly according to claim 11, wherein: The second tubular electric shield is configured as a mesh.

13. The sensor assembly according to claim 11 or 12, wherein: The tubular second electrode includes an insulating material and an inner conductive material disposed inside the insulating material and configured to form a capacitive coupling with the first electrode.

14. The sensor assembly according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: The tubular second electrode comprises a plurality of through-openings, each through-opening of the plurality of through-openings being circumferentially spaced apart from adjacent through-openings, and wherein each through-opening of the plurality of through-openings is configured to enable passage of the volume of dielectric material during a casting process.

15. The sensor assembly according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein: The first tubular electrical shield extends in an axial direction beyond an axial end of the tubular second electrode.

16. A sensor assembly comprising: a source electrode extending along the longitudinal axis, wherein the source electrode has a first axial length; a tubular section extending along the longitudinal axis and at least partially surrounding the source electrode such that the tubular section is radially spaced apart from the source electrode, the tubular section comprising: a central portion, the central portion comprising a first conductive material, the first conductive material configured to form a capacitive coupling with the source electrode; a first axial end portion extending along the longitudinal axis in a first direction away from the central portion and comprising a second conductive material electrically isolated from the first conductive material, wherein the second conductive material is configured to shield the capacitive coupling from external electric fields; and a second axial end portion extending along the longitudinal axis in a second direction away from the center portion opposite to the first direction and comprising a third conductive material electrically isolated from the first conductive material, wherein the third conductive material is configured to shield the capacitive coupling from external electric fields; and a volume of insulating material at least partially surrounding the source electrode and the tubular section, and Wherein, each of the central portion, the first axial end portion and the second axial end portion includes a plurality of through openings configured to be filled with the insulating material.

17. The sensor assembly of claim 16, wherein: The source electrode extends beyond the first axial end portion and the second axial end portion.

18. A sensor assembly according to claim 16 or 17, wherein: The second conductive material and the third conductive material are electrically isolated from each other.

19. The sensor assembly according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein: The through openings of the plurality of through openings are configured as slits extending in a direction along the longitudinal axis.

20. The sensor assembly according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein: Each through-opening of the plurality of through-openings is configured as a slit extending in a direction along the longitudinal axis.

21. The sensor assembly according to any one of claims 16 to 20, wherein: Each of the central portion, the first axial end portion, and the second axial end portion includes an electrically insulating material.

22. The sensor assembly according to any one of claims 16 to 21, wherein: An electrically insulating material is provided between the first axial end portion and the central portion and between the second axial end portion and the central portion.

23. A sensor assembly comprising: a source electrode extending along the longitudinal axis, wherein the source electrode has a first axial length; a circular member at least partially surrounding the source electrode such that the circular member is radially spaced apart from the source electrode, wherein the circular member is multi-layered and includes two layers of conductive material; a plurality of cantilevered segments extending from the circular member, wherein the plurality of cantilevered segments are positioned side-by-side in a circumferential manner about the longitudinal axis, wherein adjacent cantilevered segments of the plurality of cantilevered segments are spaced apart from one another in a circumferential manner about the longitudinal axis, and wherein each cantilevered segment of the plurality of cantilevered segments is multi-layered; and a volume of insulating material at least partially surrounding the source electrode and the plurality of segments, Wherein, a space between adjacent cantilevered sections of the plurality of cantilevered sections is filled with the plurality of insulating material, and wherein the space extends along the longitudinal axis.

24. The sensor assembly of claim 23, wherein: Each of the plurality of cantilevered sections includes a conductive material configured to form a capacitive coupling with the source electrode or configured to serve as an electrical shield.

25. A sensor assembly according to claim 23 or 24, wherein: Each cantilevered segment includes an electrically insulating material, wherein the space is configured as an elongated slot extending in a direction along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the source electrode extends through the plurality of cantilevered segments.

26. A sensor assembly according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein: The plurality of segments is a first plurality of segments extending from the circular member in a first direction along the longitudinal axis and further includes a second plurality of segments extending from the longitudinal axis in a second, opposite direction along the longitudinal axis.

27. A sensor assembly according to any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein: The space is configured as an elongated slit extending in a direction along the longitudinal axis.

28. A sensor assembly comprising: a first electrode extending along a longitudinal axis; a tubular second electrode at least partially surrounding the first electrode such that the tubular second electrode is radially spaced apart from the first electrode, wherein the tubular second electrode is configured to function as an electric field sensor to form a capacitive coupling with the first electrode; a tubular electrical shield disposed around the tubular second electrode; a tubular metal member extending in an axial direction beyond an axial end of the tubular electrical shield, wherein the tubular metal member at least partially surrounds the first electrode such that the tubular metal member is radially spaced from the first electrode; and A volume of dielectric material extends along the longitudinal axis and at least partially surrounds the first electrode, the tubular second electrode, the tubular electrical shield, and the tubular metallic member, wherein the volume of dielectric material fills the through opening in the tubular metallic member.

29. The sensor assembly of claim 28, wherein: The tubular metal component is a metal wire mesh.

30. The sensor assembly of claim 28, wherein: The tubular metal component is a metal mesh.

31. A sensor assembly comprising: an electrode extending along a longitudinal axis; a tubular body extending along the longitudinal axis and at least partially surrounding the electrode such that the tubular body is radially spaced from the electrode; and Wherein, the tubular body comprises: a tubular insulating member extending along the longitudinal axis and at least partially surrounding the electrode such that the tubular insulating member is radially spaced from the electrode, wherein the tubular insulating member includes a plurality of cantilevered segments that are circumferentially spaced from one another to form axial through-openings therebetween; and a tubular electric field sensor comprising a conductive material disposed inside the tubular insulating member, the tubular electric field sensor being configured to detect an electric field generated by the electrode; a tubular electrical shield comprising an electrically conductive material and extending along the longitudinal axis and at least partially surrounding the electrode such that the tubular electrical shield is radially spaced from the electrode, the tubular electrical shield being electrically isolated from the tubular electric field sensor and configured to protect the tubular electric field sensor from external electrical interference; a tubular metal member comprising an electrically conductive material and extending along the longitudinal axis and spaced apart from and electrically isolated from the tubular electric field sensor, wherein the tubular metal member extends in an axial direction beyond an axial end of the tubular body; and A volume of dielectric material at least partially surrounds the tubular body, the tubular electrical shield, and the tubular metallic member, wherein the volume of dielectric material fills the through-opening in the tubular insulating member.

32. The sensor assembly of claim 31, wherein: The tubular electric shield is a first tubular electric shield, and wherein the tubular metal member is electrically isolated from the first tubular electric shield and is configured to function as a second tubular electric shield.

33. A sensor assembly according to claim 31 or 32, wherein: The volume of dielectric material fills the through opening in the tubular metal member.

34. A sensor assembly according to any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein: The plurality of cantilevered segments are a first plurality of cantilevered segments extending from a center of the tubular insulating member in a first direction, and further include a second plurality of cantilevered segments, the second plurality of cantilevered segments being circumferentially spaced apart to form axial through-openings therebetween, wherein the second plurality of cantilevered segments extend from the center of the tubular insulating member in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

35. A sensor assembly according to any one of claims 31 to 34, wherein: The tubular electric field sensor includes a plurality of cantilevered segments spaced circumferentially apart to form an axial through-opening therebetween.

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