Transducer with magnetic flux concentrator

Abstract

A transducer system has a magnetic core that includes a gap between two end surfaces of the magnetic core. A first cover structure is arranged adjacent to the first end surface, and a second cover structure is arranged adjacent to the second end surface. The first and second cover structures each include a material having a higher magnetic permeability than air. The first cover structure includes a first flux concentration surface, and the second cover structure includes a second flux concentration surface facing the first flux concentration surface. A magnetic flux measuring device is positioned between the first and second flux concentration surfaces. The cover structures concentrate the magnetic flux in the magnetic core onto the respective concentration surfaces. The concentration surfaces enable more accurate measurement of the magnetic flux.

Description

Background Technology Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates in general to current measurement. Related technical descriptions

[0002] In existing current transducers for measuring current in a conductor, a magnetic flux generated by a primary current flows along a magnetic core and is measured in an air gap in the core using a flux measuring device (e.g., a Hall sensor). The output of the flux measuring device is processed to provide an indication of the primary current.

[0003] The geometry of the air gap (e.g., the distance and angle between the two open ends of the magnetic core) directly affects the amount of magnetic flux received or detected by the flux measuring device, which affects the output of the flux measuring device and thus the measurement result of the primary current.

[0004] In some applications, the geometry of the air gap within the magnetic core may change from time to time, which reduces measurement accuracy. For example, transducers with open / closed core configurations may be susceptible to variations in air gap geometry. Traditionally, to reduce variations in air gap geometry, open / closed core configurations are typically designed with very high stiffness and low deformation margins, along with biasing elements (e.g., springs) that generate strong biasing forces toward the closed configuration, which can be difficult and inconvenient to use. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An apparatus according to this disclosure includes a magnetic core having a first end surface, a second end surface, and a gap between the first end surface and the second end surface. A first cover structure is disposed adjacent to the first end surface. The first cover structure comprises a material having a permeability higher than that of air, and the first cover structure includes a first protrusion projecting toward the second end surface of the magnetic core. A magnetic flux measuring device is positioned between the first protrusion and the second end surface of the magnetic core. The first cover structure is configured to concentrate the magnetic flux in the magnetic core onto one or more surfaces of the first cover structure adjacent to the second end surface, or onto a surface of the second cover structure disposed on the second end surface of the magnetic core. This concentration of magnetic flux helps to ensure that the measurement of the magnetic flux is unaffected by potential changes in the geometry of the gap between the first end surface and the second end surface of the magnetic core.

[0006] These concepts and features, as well as other concepts and features, are illustrated through various implementations of the technology described herein. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 1C , Figure 1D An example transducer system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated schematically.

[0008] Figure 2 and Figure 3 A cover structure arranged around an air gap for a magnetic code according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically shown.

[0009] Figure 4 A protruding portion of the cover structure according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0010] Figure 5 Alternative embodiments of the cover structure according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure are illustrated schematically.

[0011] Figure 6 A method for using a transducer system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0012] Figure 7 An environment for using a transducer system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0013] This disclosure provides techniques, apparatus, and systems for compensating for or eliminating the influence of air gap geometry variations on the measurement results of current measuring transducers.

[0014] Non-coupler contact current measuring transducers operate to detect current values ​​in conductors without requiring contact with conductor couplers. The transducer may include a body and a flexible arm coupled to the body. The flexible arm is movable between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the flexible arm and a portion of the body form a measurement loop defining a measurement area that receives an insulated conductor, and in the open position, the flexible arm opens at least a portion of the measurement loop to allow the insulated conductor to move into and out of the measurement area. In some embodiments, an actuator is operatively coupled to the flexible arm, which, in operation, moves the flexible arm from the closed position to the open position in response to user actuation.

[0015] The magnetic core forms at least a portion of the flexible arm. In the closed position, the magnetic core includes at least one air gap. At least one non-contact sensor is coupled to at least one of the body or the flexible arm, and is positioned in the at least one air gap and operates to measure the magnetic flux through the at least one air gap.

[0016] In some embodiments, a transducer system according to this disclosure includes a flux concentrator disposed at one or more open ends of an air gap in a magnetic core. The flux concentrator concentrates or routes magnetic flux in the core to a designated path across the gap. This designated path reduces edge flux and minimizes the effects of misalignment between the open ends of the core around the air gap. For example, even if the geometry of the air gap changes, the amount of magnetic flux flowing through the designated path does not change or changes only to a small extent.

[0017] For example, a flux concentrator can be a cap structure made of a high-permeability material that encloses the end surface of a magnetic core adjacent to an air gap. The cap structure includes a protrusion that extends into the air gap towards another end surface of the magnetic core adjacent to the air gap. Magnetic flux in the core is conducted through the cap structure and concentrated in the protrusion to flow towards the other end surface of the core adjacent to the air gap. When the other end surface of the core includes a similar cap structure with a corresponding protrusion, the magnetic flux is concentrated by the protrusion as it flows across the air gap. Because the magnetic flux is concentrated into a designated path through the protrusion, edge flux is reduced or more easily controlled.

[0018] For example, in cases where the specified flux path includes two protruding structures extending from the two end surfaces of the magnetic code in the air gap, the first protruding structure of the two protruding structures includes, for example, a first protruding surface that is larger than the second protruding surface of the second protruding structure in the xy plane. Even if there is a misalignment between the two end surfaces of the magnetic core forming the air gap, the magnetic flux is still concentrated and directed to the smaller protruding surface of the second protruding structure, and if the measuring device is properly positioned (e.g., positioned close to the second protruding structure with the smaller protruding surface), most or all of the magnetic flux will be captured and measured by the measuring device.

[0019] For example, a measuring device having a large detection surface with a surface area, for example, larger than that of the second protruding surface of the second protruding structure, is positioned close to the second protruding surface, and is able to detect most or all of the magnetic flux flowing between the first and second protruding structures even if there is a misalignment between the first end surface and the second end surface of the magnetic core.

[0020] In some specific implementations as described herein, the designated paths are configured such that the magnetic flux measured within the designated paths is complementary to each other. For example, the designated paths are arranged in a direction in which the geometry of the air gap can vary. A change in the geometry of the air gap in this direction will result in an increase in flux measurement in one of the designated paths and a decrease in flux measurement in the other designated path. However, due to the complementary nature of the two measurements, the overall measurement result based on the two flux measurements will not be affected by the change in the geometry of the air gap. This complementary measurement arrangement can be implemented in any direction in which the geometry of the air gap can vary. The flux concentrator enables the design and configuration of complementary measurements of magnetic flux.

[0021] For example, in a specified flux path, a first protruding structure includes a first protruding surface and a second protruding surface opposite to the first protruding surface in a first direction. The second protruding structure includes two end portions that overlap or surround the first protruding structure together in the first direction. Two measuring devices are used to detect the magnetic flux flowing between the first protruding surface and the first end portion, and the magnetic flux flowing between the second protruding surface and the second end portion. The readings of the two measuring devices together indicate the magnetic flux generated by the primary current. Misalignment between the first and second end surfaces in the first direction will not affect the total flux detection reading because the readings of the two measuring devices are complementary.

[0022] In some embodiments, each of the first or second protruding surfaces of the first protruding structure may have a larger (or smaller) surface area than the corresponding end portion of the second protruding structure. This can also reduce the effects of misalignment between the end surfaces of the air gap in a second direction different from the first direction. For example, the first direction is vertical, and the second direction is lateral.

[0023] Figure 1A The transducer system 100 is schematically shown. (e.g.) Figure 1A As shown, the transducer system 100 includes a magnetic core 110 having an air gap (first air gap) 112 between a first end surface 114 and a second end surface 116 adjacent to an air gap 112. A magnetic flux measurement device 120 (e.g., a Hall sensor) is positioned within the air gap 112. The magnetic flux measurement device 120 is coupled to a measurement processing circuit 122, illustratively shown as an amplifier.

[0024] The first cover structure 130 and the second cover structure 132 are respectively adjacent to each of the first end surface 114 and the second end surface 116. Cover structures 130 and 132 are positioned between the first end surface 114 and the second end surface 116, and are adjacent to a corresponding one of the first end surface 114 and the second end surface 116. Cover structures 130 and 132 each comprise a material having a permeability higher than that of air. In some embodiments, cover structures 130 and 132 are made of a soft magnetic material that is easily magnetized and demagnetized, and typically has an intrinsic coercivity of less than 1000 Am⁻¹. For example, cover structures 130 and 132 have a permeability of 1.26 × 10⁻¹. -4 Carbon steel with a permeability of H / m or 1.26 × 10⁻⁶ m -4 Up to 7.54×10 -4 Nickel with a permeability of H / m. The cap structures 130 and 132 can also be one or more of iron, silicon steel (e.g., in the case where the magnetic core 110 includes multiple laminated layers), iron-aluminum-silicon alloy, nickel-iron alloy, iron-cobalt alloy, ferrite, and amorphous alloy. In some embodiments, the material of the cap structures 130 and 132 has a higher permeability value than that of the magnetic core 110. For example, in the case of the magnetic core 110, the permeability is 6.3 × 10⁻⁶. -3 In the case of iron with a magnetic permeability value of 2.3 × 10⁻⁶, the cover structures 130 and 132 can have a magnetic permeability value of 2.3 × 10⁻⁶. -2 The magnetic permeability values ​​are for iron and cobalt. In some embodiments, cover structures 130, 132 are adjacent to the respective end surfaces 114, 116. In some embodiments, cover structures 130, 132 are not adjacent to the respective end surfaces 114, 116, but are positioned close to the respective end surfaces 114, 116, such that the edge flux between cover structures 130, 132 and the respective end surfaces 114, 116 is reduced.

[0025] In operation, this is referred to as the primary current I. p The current to be measured flows through conductor 140, which passes through region 111 (referred to as the "measuring region") surrounded by magnetic core 110, which serves as a measuring loop. Primary current I p A magnetic field is generated inside the magnetic core 110. The magnetic core 110 has a much higher permeability than air, which allows the magnetic core to confine and guide the primary current I. p The generated magnetic field, as magnetic flux, follows the path of magnetic code 110. The cover structure further confines and guides the magnetic flux in the air gap 112, the density of which is measured by the magnetic flux measuring device 120. For example, in the case where the magnetic flux measuring device 120 is a Hall sensor, the output of the magnetic flux measuring device is a voltage proportional to the magnetic flux, which is also proportional to the primary current I. p Proportional. Therefore, assuming the magnetic flux in the core 110 is unsaturated, this indicates the primary current I to be measured.p The upper limit of the magnetic flux measurement device 120 is obtained by processing the output of the magnetic flux measurement device 120 through the measurement processing circuit 122. p The value of .

[0026] In some embodiments, the magnetic core 110 may include a body 113 and a flexible arm 115 coupled to the body. The flexible arm 115 is configured to move between a closed position and an open position. Figure 1A In the closed position shown, the flexible arm 115 and the body 113 form a measurement loop for the magnetic core 110, which defines a measurement area 111 configured to receive the conductor 140 for measurement. In the open position ( Figure 1A (Not specifically shown in the image) In this embodiment, the flexible arm 115 opens at least a portion of the measurement circuit to allow the conductor 140 to move into and out of the measurement area. In some specific implementations, the actuator (for simplicity, Figure 1A (Not shown) is operatively coupled to a flexible arm 115, which, in operation, moves the flexible arm 115, for example, in response to actuation by a user, to change between a closed position and an open position.

[0027] The first end surface 114 and the second end surface 116 may both be positioned within the body 113, both within the flexible arm 115, or may be positioned separately within the body 113 and the flexible arm 115. This does not limit the scope of this disclosure and is included within its scope. Movement of the flexible arm 115 between the open and closed positions may cause a change in the geometry of the air gap 112 between the first end surface 114 and the second end surface 116.

[0028] In some embodiments, the flexible arm 115 is hinged to the body 113, allowing the flexible arm to switch between a closed and an open position. In some embodiments, the flexible arm 115 is rotatably coupled to the body 113. Given the curved profile of the flexible arm, rotation of the flexible arm 115 will move it relative to the body 113 between a closed and an open position. In some embodiments, the flexible arm 115 is configured to slide relative to the body 113 during the transition between the closed and open positions.

[0029] It should be noted that although the measurement processing circuit 122 is simply shown as an open-loop circuit, it does not limit the scope of this disclosure. In some specific embodiments, the measurement processing circuit 122 may include a feedback path that sends a feedback signal to regulate the current through the secondary winding (not shown for simplicity) surrounding the magnetic core 110.

[0030] Figure 1B A cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the magnetic core 110 and cover structures 130, 132 is schematically shown. (See also: [link to reference]) Figure 1A and Figure 1B In some embodiments, cover structures 130, 132 are arranged adjacent to the respective end surfaces 114, 116 around the air gap 112 of the magnetic core 110. In some embodiments, one or more of the cover structures 130, 132 include extensions 134, 136 that extend from the respective end surfaces 114, 116 around an adjacent portion of the magnetic core 110. Thus, the cover structures 130, 132 completely enclose the respective end surfaces 114, 116. The extensions 134, 136 further facilitate the concentration of magnetic flux to the cover structures 130, 132, allowing magnetic flux to pass through the cover structures 130, 132.

[0031] In some embodiments, one or more of the cover structures 130, 132 include relatively flush surfaces 150, 152. The relatively flush surfaces 150, 152 help stabilize the magnetic flux flowing between the end surfaces 114 and 116.

[0032] like Figure 1B As shown, in some specific embodiments, the magnetic core 110 is a laminated core having multiple thin magnetic layers or plates of iron or other high-permeability materials stacked on top of each other, each of which is arranged along or parallel to a magnetic flux line. An insulating layer 212 with low permeability (e.g., copper or bismuth) is positioned between two adjacent magnetic layers 210. Furthermore, it should be noted that although... Figure 1A A magnetic flux measuring device 120 positioned in an air gap 112 is shown, but this exemplary embodiment does not limit the scope of this disclosure; other measuring devices (e.g., Figure 1C The tunneling magnetoresistive (TMR) sensor 160 shown can be used to measure magnetic flux and can be positioned in other suitable locations besides the air gap 112. The magnetic flux in the core 110 can alter the orientation of the magnetic field in the free magnetic layer of the TMR sensor, which causes a change in the tunneling current. The tunneling current can be detected and analyzed by a microcontroller 162 coupled to the TMR 160 to determine the magnetic flux in the core 110.

[0033] In another example, such as Figure 1D As shown, the magnetic flux in the magnetic core 110 can be measured by the fluxmeter 172. The magnetic core 110 is placed at the center of the coil 170 connected to the fluxmeter 172 so that the fluxmeter 172 can detect the density of the magnetic flux in the magnetic core 110.

[0034] By other types of measuring devices not located in the air gap 112 (e.g., Figure 1C and Figure 1DAs shown, the measurement of magnetic flux can still benefit from the specific implementation of the cover structures 130 and 132, because the magnetic flux flowing through the air gap 112 is stabilized by the cover structures 130 and 132.

[0035] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a magnetic core 110 surrounding an air gap 112, according to at least one specific embodiment of this disclosure, is shown schematically. Figure 2 As shown, in some specific embodiments, the magnetic core 110 is a laminated core having multiple thin magnetic layers or plates of iron or other high-permeability materials stacked on top of each other, each of which is arranged along or parallel to a magnetic flux line. An insulating layer 212 with low permeability (e.g., copper or bismuth) is positioned between two adjacent magnetic layers 210.

[0036] Cover structures 230, 232 are arranged around the air gap 112 adjacent to the respective end surfaces 114, 116. In some embodiments, one or more of the cover structures 230, 232 include extensions 234, 236 that extend from the respective end surfaces 114, 116 around adjacent portions of the magnetic core 110. Thus, the cover structures 230, 232 enclose the respective end surfaces 114, 116. The extensions 234, 236 further facilitate the concentration of magnetic flux into the cover structures 230, 232, allowing magnetic flux to pass through them.

[0037] In some embodiments, one or more of the cover structures 230, 232 respectively include protrusions 240, 242. Each of the protrusions 240, 242 protrudes from adjacent end surfaces 114, 116 toward opposite end surfaces 116, 116. For example, protrusion 240 protrudes from adjacent end surface 114 toward opposite end surface 116 into air gap 112. Protrusion 242 protrudes from adjacent end surface 116 toward opposite end surface 114 into air gap 112.

[0038] The protruding portions 240 and 242 each include protruding surfaces 244 and 246 facing the opposing end surfaces 116 and 114. In some embodiments, one or more of the protruding surfaces 244 and 246 have a smaller area than the corresponding opposing end surfaces 116 and 114. In some embodiments, the protruding surfaces 244 and 246 face each other, for example, in the x-axis direction, and one of the protruding surfaces (e.g., protruding surface 246) has a smaller surface area than the other protruding surface (e.g., protruding surface 244). The smaller surface area of ​​the protruding surface 246 ensures that even if the relative position between the end surfaces 114 and 116 changes, the protruding surface 246 still protrudes completely onto the larger surface area of ​​the protruding surface 244, such that the magnetic flux between the protruding surfaces 244 and 246 will not change.

[0039] In some embodiments, the magnetic flux measuring device 120 is positioned between two protruding surfaces 244, 246, and near the protruding surface 246 with the smaller surface area. In some embodiments, the magnetic flux measuring device 120 has a detection surface 250 with a surface area larger than that of the protruding surface 246. The protrusion of the protruding surface 246 on the detection surface 250 lies entirely within the detection surface 250 in the yz plane. For example, the magnetic flux measuring device 120 includes a detection surface that extends beyond the protruding surface 246 in any direction orthogonal to the x-axis, with the protruding surfaces 244, 246 facing each other along this x-axis. Therefore, even if the relative positions of the end surfaces 114, 116 change, the large detection surface 250 still allows the magnetic flux measuring device 120 to detect the entire magnetic flux between the protruding surfaces 244, 246.

[0040] In some implementations, the protruding surfaces 244 and 246 are similar in area, and the detection surface 250 is larger than the surface area of ​​each of the protruding surfaces 244 and 246. Therefore, even if the relative positions of the end surfaces 114 and 116 change, the large detection surface 250 still enables the magnetic flux measuring device 120 to detect the magnetic flux between the protruding surfaces 244 and 246.

[0041] In some specific implementations, the protruding surfaces 244 and 246 are both smaller in area than the end surfaces 114 and 116. By utilizing the cap structures 230 and 232, the magnetic flux is concentrated in the smaller surface area of ​​the protruding surfaces 244 and 246, which facilitates the measurement of the magnetic flux and, for example, stabilizes the magnetic flux by reducing the edge flux.

[0042] The cover structures 230 and 232 are preferably made of iron, steel, nickel, or other materials with a magnetic permeability higher than that of air.

[0043] In operation, because the cover structures 230, 232 have a higher permeability than air, the magnetic flux in the core 110 is confined and guided through the cover structures 230, 232 and the second, smaller air gap 252 between the protruding surfaces 244, 246 of the cover structures 230, 232. With proper configuration of the protruding surfaces 244, 246 (e.g., protruding surface 246 is smaller in area than protruding surface 244 and protrudes completely within protruding surface 244 in the yz plane), the density of magnetic flux through the second air gap 252 will not change with variations in the relative positions of the end surfaces 114, 116, or at least change much less.

[0044] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a magnetic core 110 surrounding an air gap 112, according to another specific embodiment of this disclosure, is shown schematically. Figure 3 As shown, the cover structures 330 and 332 include corresponding protrusions 340 and 342. The protrusion 342 includes a first end portion 362 and a second end portion 364 spaced apart from each other in the y-axis direction. The protrusion 340 is positioned between the first end portion 362 and the second end portion 364 in the y-axis direction. For example, a first surface 366 of the protrusion 340 faces the first end portion 362 of the protrusion 342 and at least partially overlaps with it, while a second opposing surface 368 of the protrusion 340 faces the second end portion 364 of the protrusion 342 and at least partially overlaps with it. A third air gap 352 exists between the surface 366 of the protrusion 340 and the first end portion 362 of the protrusion 342. A fourth air gap 354 exists between the surface 368 of the protrusion 340 and the second end portion 364 of the protrusion 342.

[0045] The first magnetic flux measuring device 320 is positioned to measure the magnetic flux density in the third air gap 352. The second magnetic flux measuring device 322 is positioned to measure the magnetic flux density in the fourth air gap 354. In some embodiments, the magnetic flux measuring devices 320 and 322 are positioned near the respective end portions 362 and 364.

[0046] During operation, the magnetic flux in the magnetic core 110 is confined and guided to the cover structures 330, 332, and passes through the third air gap 352 and the fourth air gap 354. The magnetic flux density in the third air gap 352 and the fourth air gap 354 together reflects the magnetic flux density in the magnetic core 110. When the relative positions of the end surfaces 114, 116 of the magnetic core 110 change in the y-axis direction, the dimensions of the third air gap 352 and the fourth air gap 354 will change in a complementary manner. For example, when the y-axis distance between the surface 366 of the protrusion 340 and the first end portion 362 of the protrusion 342 decreases, the y-axis distance between the surface 368 of the protrusion 340 and the second end portion 364 of the protrusion 342 increases. When the y-axis distance between the surface 366 of the protrusion 340 and the first end portion 362 of the protrusion 342 increases, the y-axis distance between the surface 368 of the protrusion 340 and the second end portion 364 of the protrusion 342 decreases.

[0047] Changes in air gaps 352 and 354 cause changes in the magnetic flux density within air gaps 352 and 354. However, due to the complementary nature of the changes in air gaps 352 and 354, the total or combined density of magnetic flux detected by magnetic flux measuring devices 320 and 322 will not change and will still accurately reflect the magnetic flux in the magnetic core 110.

[0048] In various specific implementations, the cover structures 330, 332 can be configured such that the protrusion 340 is surrounded by the end portions 362, 364 in a direction in which the relative portions of the end surfaces 114, 116 vary. Complementary measurements of the magnetic flux density in the air gaps 352, 354 will produce overall combined measurement results unaffected by variations between the end surfaces 114, 116.

[0049] Figure 3 The illustration shows the protrusion 340 being surrounded by end portions 362, 364 in the y-axis direction, which does not limit the scope of this disclosure. In specific embodiments, the protrusion 340 may be surrounded by end portions 362, 364 in any direction in which the end surfaces 114, 116 are assumed to change their relative positions. Furthermore, the protrusion 340 may be surrounded by the end portions of the protrusion 342 in more than one direction (e.g., both the y-axis and z-axis directions).

[0050] Figure 4The diagram shows that the protrusion 340 is surrounded in a first direction by end portions 362, 364 of the protrusion 342, and in a second direction different from the first direction by end portions 370, 372 of the protrusion 342. Four magnetic flux measuring devices 120 are arranged to measure the magnetic flux density in the air gap between the protrusion 340 and each of the end portions 362, 364, 370, 372. The change in the relative position between the end surfaces 114, 116 in the first and second directions can be determined by... Figure 4 The complementary measurement configuration compensation is shown.

[0051] Return to reference Figures 2 to 4 A cap structure having a permeability higher than that of air effectively concentrates magnetic flux to one or more surfaces of the cap structure located near the opposing end surfaces of the magnetic core. The magnetic flux will pass through the air gap between those surfaces where the flux is concentrated (referred to for descriptive purposes as "flux-concentrating surfaces"). For example, protruding surfaces 244, 246, 366, and 368 are flux-concentrating surfaces. End portions 362 and 364 each include flux-concentrating surfaces facing flux-concentrating surfaces 366 and 368, respectively.

[0052] The flux-concentrated surface allows the air gap for magnetic flux measurement to be configured in a manner different from the air gap between end surfaces 114 and 116. For example, Figure 3 The end surfaces 114 and 116 are shown facing each other in the x-axis direction, while for air gaps 352 and 354, the corresponding concentrated surfaces face each other in the y-axis direction, allowing for adaptation or compensation for variations in the relative positions between the end surfaces 114 and 116 in the y-axis direction. Therefore, variations in the geometry of the air gap 112 will not affect the response to the primary current I. p Measurement of the generated magnetic flux.

[0053] The flux concentration surface can be arranged or configured to accommodate or compensate for possible geometric variations in the air gap 112 between the end surfaces 114, 116. For example, Figure 5 This shows that the flux concentration surfaces 502 and 504 are arranged in the y-axis direction instead of as shown. Figure 2 An alternative implementation, as shown in the example, faces each other in the x-axis direction.

[0054] Figure 6 An example specific implementation of a method for measuring current in a conductor using a non-coupler contact current measuring transducer is shown. The non-coupler contact current measuring transducer includes a magnetic core 110, for example, as shown in Figures 1 to 12. Figure 5As shown. The magnetic core 110 may include a body and a measuring end coupled to the body. The measuring end includes a movable arm, such as a flexible arm, clamp, or jaw, capable of moving between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the measuring end and a portion of the body form a measuring loop of the magnetic core 110 that surrounds or defines a measuring region receiving the conductor 140, and in the open position, the measuring end opens at least a portion of the measuring loop to allow the conductor to move into and out of the measuring region.

[0055] In operation 602, the conductor is received into the measurement area of ​​the transducer.

[0056] Specifically, in operation 610, the user operates the transducer to move the movable arm to the open position. For example, the user can operate an actuator to move the movable arm from the closed position to the open position. In the open position, at least a portion of the measurement circuit of the magnetic core 110 is opened.

[0057] In operation 620, conductor 140 is received in the measurement area.

[0058] In operation 630, the user operates the transducer's actuator to move the movable arm to a closed position, wherein the conductor 140 remains in the measurement area.

[0059] Then, in operation 604, for example, a magnetic flux measuring device 112 and a measurement processing circuit 122 can be used to perform the measurement of the primary current I flowing through the conductor 140. p Measurement.

[0060] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of environment 700, in which user 704 can use transducer device 702 to measure the current present in conductor 706, for example, using... Figure 6 The method shown eliminates the need for a thermocouple contact between the transducer device 702 and the conductor 706. The transducer device 702 may include components referenced herein from Figures 1 to 12. Figure 5 Some or all of the features of the magnetic core 110 discussed. In some specific embodiments, the transducer device 702 includes a housing or body 708 that includes a grip portion 710 and a probe portion or measuring end 712 opposite the grip portion 710. The housing 708 may also include a user interface 714 that facilitates interaction between a user and the transducer device 702. The user interface 714 may include any number of inputs (e.g., buttons, dials, switches, touch sensors) and any number of outputs (e.g., displays, LEDs, speakers, buzzers). The transducer device 702 may also include one or more wired and / or wireless communication interfaces (e.g., USB, Wi-Fi). ® ,Bluetooth ® ).

[0061] In at least some embodiments, the probe portion 712 may include a measurement circuit 716 that defines a measurement area 718 configured to receive the conductor 706. The measurement circuit 716 includes a movable arm 720 configured to be in an open position and a closed position. Figure 7 Switching between the closed portions shown in the diagram allows conductor 706 to be accommodated within the measurement area 718.

[0062] Measurement circuit 716 may include a magnetic core 100 embedded therein. Measurement processing circuit 122 may be embedded in body 708, or may be partially in body 708 and partially communicatively coupled to a remote processing device of transducer device 702.

[0063] For the purposes of this disclosure, unless otherwise indicated, the phrase “A and B” is non-restrictive and means one or more of (A) and one or more of (B); the phrase “A or B” is non-exclusive and means one or more of (A), one or more of (B), or one or more of (A and B); the phrase “A and / or B” means one or more of (A), one or more of (B), or one or more of (A and B); the phrase “at least one of A and B” and the phrase “one or more of A and B” both mean one or more of (A) and one or more of (B); the phrase “at least one of A or B” and the phrase “one or more of A or B” both mean one or more of (A), one or more of (B), or one or more of (A and B). For example, by extension, the phrases “at least one of A, B, or C” and “one or more of A, B, or C” both mean one or more of (A), one or more of (B), one or more of (C), one or more of (A and B), one or more of (A and C), or one or more of (B and C). In the above text, A, B, and C represent any form or type of element, feature, arrangement, component, structure, aspect, action, step, etc.

[0064] In light of the detailed description above, these and other changes may be made to these embodiments. Generally, the terminology used in the following claims should not be construed as limiting the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed in this specification and claims, but rather as encompassing all possible embodiments and the full scope of equivalents conferred by such claims. Therefore, the claims are not limited by this disclosure.

[0065] The implementation schemes of the described subject may include one or more examples, individually or in combination.

[0066] An example transducer system includes a magnetic core having a first end surface, a second end surface, and a gap between the first end surface and the second end surface. The example transducer system also includes a first cover structure disposed adjacent to the first end surface, the first cover structure comprising a material having a permeability higher than that of air.

[0067] This example optionally specifies that the first cover structure includes a first protruding portion that projects toward the second end surface.

[0068] The example may also include a magnetic flux measuring device positioned between the first protrusion and the second end surface.

[0069] The example may optionally specify that the first protrusion includes a first protruding surface facing the second end surface, and wherein the first protruding surface is smaller in area than the second end surface.

[0070] The example may also include a second cover structure disposed adjacent to the second end surface, the second cover structure comprising a material having a higher magnetic permeability than air, the second cover structure comprising a second protrusion extending toward the first end surface.

[0071] The example may optionally specify that the first protrusion includes a first protruding surface, the second protrusion includes a second protruding surface facing the first protruding surface in a first direction, and the first protruding surface is smaller in area than the second protruding surface.

[0072] This example optionally specifies that the magnetic flux measuring device is positioned close to the first protruding surface.

[0073] Optionally, the magnetic flux measuring device may include a detection surface extending beyond the first protruding surface in any direction orthogonal to the first direction.

[0074] The example optionally specifies that the second protrusion includes a first end portion and a second end portion, the first protrusion being positioned in a first direction between the first end portion and the second end portion, and the first protrusion at least partially overlapping the first end portion and the second end portion in the first direction.

[0075] Optionally, this example specifies that the magnetic flux measuring device includes a first measuring element and a second measuring element, the first measuring element being positioned between the first protrusion and the first end portion, and the second measuring element being positioned between the first protrusion and the second end portion.

[0076] This example optionally specifies that the first cover structure includes an extension portion surrounding the magnetic core and extending from the first end surface.

[0077] This example optionally specifies that the first cover structure encloses the first end surface.

[0078] This example optionally specifies that the permeability of the material of the first gap structure is higher than the permeability of the magnetic core.

[0079] This example optionally specifies that the material of the first gap structure is a soft magnetic material.

[0080] This example optionally specifies that the magnetic core includes multiple magnetic layers stacked on top of each other and multiple insulating layers, each of the multiple insulating layers being positioned between two magnetic layers.

[0081] An example device includes: a magnetic core having a first end surface and a second end surface separated from each other; a first cover structure disposed adjacent to the first end surface, the first cover structure comprising a material having a permeability higher than that of air, the first cover structure comprising a first flux concentration surface and a second flux concentration surface; and a second cover structure disposed adjacent to the second end surface, the second cover structure comprising a material having a permeability higher than that of air, the second cover structure comprising a third flux concentration surface and a fourth flux concentration surface, the first flux concentration surface facing the third flux concentration surface and at least partially overlapping the third flux concentration surface, and the second flux concentration surface facing the fourth flux concentration surface and at least partially overlapping the fourth flux concentration surface.

[0082] The example may optionally also include a first magnetic flux measuring device positioned between the first flux concentration surface and the third flux concentration surface; and a second magnetic flux measuring device positioned between the second flux concentration surface and the fourth flux concentration surface.

[0083] This example optionally specifies that the first flux concentration surface faces the third flux concentration surface in a first direction, and the second flux concentration surface faces the fourth flux concentration surface in the first direction.

[0084] This example optionally specifies that the first end surface and the second end surface face each other in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0085] The example optionally specifies that the first flux concentration surface and the second flux concentration surface are opposite each other in a first direction, and that the third flux concentration surface and the fourth flux concentration surface together surround the first flux concentration surface and the second flux concentration surface in the first direction.

[0086] Optionally, the example specifies that the first cover structure further includes a fifth flux concentration surface and a sixth flux concentration surface opposite to each other in a second direction different from the first direction; the second cover structure further includes a seventh flux concentration surface and an eighth flux concentration surface, the fifth flux concentration surface facing the seventh flux concentration surface and at least partially overlapping the seventh flux concentration surface, and the sixth flux concentration surface facing the eighth flux concentration surface and at least partially overlapping the eighth flux concentration surface; and the device further includes a third magnetic flux measuring device positioned between the fifth flux concentration surface and the seventh flux concentration surface; and a fourth magnetic flux measuring device positioned between the sixth flux concentration surface and the eighth flux concentration surface.

[0087] One example method includes: receiving a conductor into a measurement region of a transducer by opening a movable arm of the transducer. The transducer includes: a magnetic core having a first end surface, a second end surface, and a gap between the first and second end surfaces; and a first cover structure disposed adjacent to the first end surface, the first cover structure comprising a material having a higher permeability than air. The example method further includes: forming a measurement loop around the measurement region by closing the movable arm; and measuring the current flowing through the conductor using a magnetic flux measurement device coupled to the magnetic core and measurement processing circuitry coupled to the magnetic flux measurement device.

[0088] The example optionally specifies that measuring the current flowing through the conductor includes: using a magnetic flux measuring device positioned in the gap between the first end surface and the second end surface to measure the magnetic flux flowing between the first end surface and the second end surface.

[0089] It should be understood that various embodiments described above can be combined to provide other embodiments of the transducer system 100. Without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure, aspects of the embodiments may be modified, and other changes may be made to the embodiments based on the detailed description above.

Claims

1. A transducer system, the transducer system comprising: A magnetic core having a first end surface, a second end surface, and a gap between the first end surface and the second end surface; and A first cover structure is disposed adjacent to the first end surface, and the first cover structure comprises a material having a higher magnetic permeability than that of air.

2. The transducer system of claim 1, wherein the first cover structure includes a first protruding portion projecting toward the second end surface.

3. The transducer system according to claim 2, wherein the transducer system includes a magnetic flux measuring device positioned between the first protrusion and the second end surface.

4. The transducer system according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the first protruding portion includes a first protruding surface facing the second end surface, and wherein the first protruding surface is smaller in area than the second end surface.

5. The transducer system according to claim 3, further comprising: A second cover structure is disposed adjacent to the second end surface, the second cover structure comprising a material having a higher magnetic permeability than air, and the second cover structure comprising a second protrusion extending toward the first end surface.

6. The transducer system of claim 5, wherein the first protruding portion includes a first protruding surface, the second protruding portion includes a second protruding surface facing the first protruding surface in a first direction, and the first protruding surface is smaller in area than the second protruding surface.

7. The transducer system of claim 6, wherein the magnetic flux measuring device is positioned close to the first protruding surface, or The magnetic flux measuring device includes a detection surface that extends beyond the first protruding surface in any direction orthogonal to the first direction.

8. The transducer system according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the second protrusion includes a first end portion and a second end portion, the first protrusion is positioned in a first direction between the first end portion and the second end portion, and the first protrusion at least partially overlaps with the first end portion and the second end portion in the first direction. Optionally, the magnetic flux measuring device includes a first measuring element and a second measuring element, the first measuring element being positioned between the first protrusion and the first end portion, and the second measuring element being positioned between the first protrusion and the second end portion.

9. The transducer system of claim 1, wherein the first cover structure includes an extension surrounding the magnetic core and extending from the first end surface, or Wherein the first cover structure encloses the first end surface, or Wherein the permeability of the material of the first cover structure is higher than the permeability of the magnetic core, or The material of the first cover structure is a soft magnetic material, or The magnetic core comprises multiple magnetic layers stacked on top of each other and multiple insulating layers, each of the multiple insulating layers being positioned between two magnetic layers.

10. The transducer system according to claim 1, The first cover structure includes a first flux concentration surface and a second flux concentration surface; The transducer system further includes a second cover structure disposed adjacent to the second end surface. The second cover structure comprises a material having a higher permeability than air. The second cover structure includes a third flux concentration surface and a fourth flux concentration surface. The first flux concentration surface faces the third flux concentration surface and at least partially overlaps with the third flux concentration surface, and the second flux concentration surface faces the fourth flux concentration surface and at least partially overlaps with the fourth flux concentration surface.

11. The transducer system according to claim 10, further comprising: A first magnetic flux measuring device is positioned between the first flux concentration surface and the third flux concentration surface; A second magnetic flux measuring device is positioned between the second flux concentration surface and the fourth flux concentration surface.

12. The transducer system of claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the first flux concentration surface faces the third flux concentration surface in a first direction, and the second flux concentration surface faces the fourth flux concentration surface in the first direction. Optionally, the first end surface and the second end surface face each other in a second direction different from the first direction.

13. The transducer system of claim 11, wherein the first flux concentration surface and the second flux concentration surface are opposite to each other in a first direction, and The third flux concentration surface and the fourth flux concentration surface together surround the first flux concentration surface and the second flux concentration surface in the first direction. And optionally, wherein: The first cover structure also includes a fifth flux concentration surface and a sixth flux concentration surface that are opposite to each other in a second direction different from the first direction; The second cover structure further includes a seventh flux concentration surface and an eighth flux concentration surface, the fifth flux concentration surface facing the seventh flux concentration surface and at least partially overlapping the seventh flux concentration surface, and the sixth flux concentration surface facing the eighth flux concentration surface and at least partially overlapping the eighth flux concentration surface; and The transducer system further includes: a third magnetic flux measuring device, which is positioned between the fifth flux concentration surface and the seventh flux concentration surface; and a fourth magnetic flux measuring device, which is positioned between the sixth flux concentration surface and the eighth flux concentration surface.

14. A method comprising: The conductor is received into the measuring region of the transducer by opening the movable arm of the transducer, the transducer comprising: A magnetic core having a first end surface, a second end surface, and a gap between the first end surface and the second end surface; and A first cover structure is disposed adjacent to the first end surface, and the first cover structure comprises a material having a higher magnetic permeability than that of air. A measurement loop is formed around the measurement area by closing the movable arm; and The current flowing through the conductor is measured using a magnetic flux measuring device coupled to the magnetic core and a measurement processing circuit coupled to the magnetic flux measuring device.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein measuring the current flowing through the conductor comprises: The magnetic flux measuring device is used to measure the magnetic flux flowing between the first end surface and the second end surface, which is positioned in the gap between the first end surface and the second end surface.

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