Current sensor decoupling

Abstract

In some embodiments, an apparatus can include at least one processor. Additionally, the apparatus can include a memory including instructions that, when executed on the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: obtain current data indicative of current measurements in phases at a plurality of busbars, the current data having a current measurement accuracy; and execute an architecture configured to create a non-physical shield between the plurality of busbars in order to improve current measurements by decoupling effects of adjacent terminals in the plurality of busbars.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following disclosure relates to a current sensor system, and more specifically, to a current measurement system and method for correcting current measurement errors. Background Technology

[0002] Some current sensor systems include sensing elements that can be mounted on a metal carrier having a busbar. A sensor chip can be configured to capture the magnetic field induced by the current flowing through the busbar. The current sensor is positioned near the current-carrying busbar to sense the magnetic field generated by the current flowing through it. The current sensor generates an output signal with an amplitude proportional to the magnetic field induced by the current passing through the busbar. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A system of one or more computers can be configured to perform specific operations or actions by installing software, firmware, hardware, or combinations thereof on the system, which, in operation, causes the system to perform these actions. One or more computer programs can be configured to perform specific operations or actions by including instructions that, when executed by a data processing device, cause that device to perform these actions.

[0004] In one general aspect, the method may include receiving a first current through a first current-carrying element of a plurality of current-carrying elements. The method may also include receiving a test signal of a second current carried by a second current-carrying element of the plurality of current-carrying elements, the test signal corresponding to the amount of coupling effect between the first and second current-carrying elements due to the current carried by the second current-carrying element, the second current-carrying element being adjacent to the first current-carrying element so as to be within the range of the coupling effect associated with the current carried by the second current-carrying element. The method may further include generating control logic for operating a multiphase system based on a current measurement of the first current-carrying element, the control logic including an algorithm for decoupling the coupling effect of the second current-carrying element to the first current-carrying element in order to suppress inaccuracies in the current measurement. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, devices, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions of these methods.

[0005] Implementations may include one or more of the following features: A method where the test current is carried by the first current-carrying element and the current is carried by the second current-carrying element. A method where the first current and the second current are generated using a single current. A method where the current measurement is a first current measurement, the method may include monitoring at least one of the first current measurement of the first current-carrying element and the second current measurement of the second current-carrying element. A method where the method constitutes a pre-deployment calibration of a multiphase system, the method may include repeating the pre-deployment calibration for each of the plurality of current-carrying elements. A method where the algorithm is a zero-sum transformation, wherein the algebraic sum of the corrected current measurements of each of the plurality of current-carrying elements is zero, and wherein each corrected current measurement is equal to the corresponding current measurement minus the sum of each of the other current measurements multiplied by a corresponding coupling factor. A method where the coupling factor is a constant value corresponding to the amount of test signal experienced by the corresponding current-carrying element during pre-deployment calibration. A method, wherein the coupling factor is obtained by applying a first current in the first current-carrying element and measuring a second current in the second current-carrying element and dividing the second current by the first current. The method may include pre-deployment calibration for all phases in a multiphase system. A method, wherein pre-deployment calibration for all phases in a multiphase system is performed using the same sample and the same hold time. The method may include, after deploying the multiphase system, running an algorithm in such a way as to: measure current to obtain a measured current carried by each of the plurality of current-carrying elements; and obtain a corresponding current measurement for each of the plurality of current-carrying elements, wherein the corresponding current measurement is a correction current measurement equal to the measured current of the corresponding current-carrying element minus an adjustment current of each of the other current-carrying elements, wherein the adjustment current is equal to the measured current of the corresponding current-carrying element multiplied by the coupling factor of the corresponding current-carrying element. The method may include: monitoring the first current to obtain a marker of the coupling effect on the current measurement; and adjusting the algorithm based on the current measurement. Implementations of the described techniques may include hardware, methods, or processes, or tangible computer media.

[0006] In one general aspect, the current sensor may include a current sensor for integration in a system having a plurality of adjacent terminals, the plurality of adjacent terminals having a first adjacent terminal and a second adjacent terminal. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, devices, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each of which is configured to perform the actions of these methods.

[0007] Implementations may include one or more of the following features: a current sensor, wherein the non-physical shield is generated by running an algorithm as a zero-sum transformation, wherein the algebraic sum of the calibrated current measurements of each of the plurality of terminals is zero, and wherein each calibrated current measurement is equal to the sum of the corresponding current measurement of the terminal among the plurality of terminals minus the sum of each of the other current measurements multiplied by a corresponding coupling factor. An energy storage system. A hybrid generator system. A circuit board. Power electronic devices. Implementations of the described techniques may include hardware, methods, or processes, or tangible computer media.

[0008] In one general aspect, the controller may include at least one processor. The controller may also include memory containing instructions that, when executed on the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: obtain current data indicating current measurements in each phase at a plurality of buses, the current data having current measurement accuracy; and execute an architecture configured to generate a non-physical shield between the plurality of buses to improve current measurement by decoupling the effects of adjacent terminals in the plurality of buses. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, devices, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions of these methods.

[0009] Implementations may include one or more of the following features: a controller, wherein the busbars are asymmetrically arranged within the current sensor. Implementations of the described techniques may include hardware, methods, or processes, or tangible computer media.

[0010] While several embodiments have been disclosed, other embodiments of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which illustrates and describes exemplary embodiments of the invention. Therefore, the drawings and detailed description are to be considered illustrative in nature and not restrictive. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a power system with a current sensor system based on the principles of this disclosure; Figure 2 An example is illustrated by a current sensor system comprising three unshielded current sensors connected in parallel on a busbar, each busbar carrying a current phase of a three-phase current system. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a current sensor system, illustrating the interaction between the magnetic fields of the current sensor; Figure 4This is a graph showing the sine curve of a three-phase system, which represents... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The measured current at each current sensor in the current sensor; Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram of a triangular arrangement of three busbars, each busbar including a current sensor; Figure 6 It is shown in Figure 4 A graph showing the measured current at each current sensor in the current sensor array; Figure 7 An example is a shielded current sensor that includes a current sensor fitted with a shield to prevent magnetic interference; Figure 8 It is shown in Figure 6 The graph shows the measured current at each current sensor in the current sensor array, and the sum of the currents is equal to zero. Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a process for calibrating a current sensor decoupling algorithm according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a process for implementing a current sensor decoupling algorithm according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] While the disclosed subject matter allows for various modifications and alternatives, specific embodiments have been illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings and are described in detail below. However, this disclosure is not intended to limit it to the specific embodiments described. Rather, this disclosure is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Detailed Implementation

[0013] In current measuring devices, there exist Hall sensor-type current measuring devices with a Hall element mounted in the air gap of a C-shaped magnetic core. The voltage generated in the Hall element is measured to detect the strength of the magnetic field. In the current measuring system, the magnetic core is excited by the magnetomotive force generated by the current to be measured, and the Hall element mounted in the air gap of the magnetic core measures the magnetic flux density in the form of a voltage proportional to the current to be measured. The magnetic core essentially exhibits hysteresis characteristics between the current to be measured and the magnetic flux density induced therein.

[0014] Typically, a simple circuit is used to measure the current to be measured based on the voltage value output from the Hall element, but current measurement errors occur due to the hysteresis characteristics of the magnetic core.

[0015] The accuracy of magnetic field-based current sensors in sensing expected currents can be affected by exposure to stray magnetic fields. Some conventional current sensors employ a ferromagnetic core to increase the coupling between the current flowing in the bus and the magnitude of the magnetic field. The core can provide shielding against stray field interference, or the magnetic field can be sensed directly without a ferromagnetic core, and ferromagnetic shielding can be provided around the system to reduce any effects of stray fields interfering with current measurements.

[0016] Sensing elements include various electronic devices capable of sensing magnetic fields. These elements generate magnetic field signals in response to the sensed magnetic field. Sensing elements can be Hall effect elements, fluxgates, magnetoresistive elements, or magnetotransistors. Different types of Hall effect elements include planar Hall elements, vertical Hall elements, and circular vertical Hall elements. Examples of magnetoresistive elements include semiconductor magnetoresistive elements such as indium antimonide elements, giant magnetoresistive elements such as spin valves, anisotropic magnetoresistive elements, tunneling magnetoresistive elements, and magnetic tunnel junctions. Sensing elements can be a single element, or alternatively, can include two or more sensing elements arranged in various configurations, such as half-bridges or full (Wheatstone) bridges. Depending on the device type and other application requirements, sensing elements can be devices made of type IV semiconductor materials such as silicon (Si) or germanium (Ge), or type III-V semiconductor materials such as gallium arsenide (GaAs), or indium compounds such as indium-10 antimonide (InSb).

[0017] This document discloses apparatus, systems, and methods for non-physical sensor shielding. Specifically, this disclosure includes current sensor decoupling algorithms to eliminate current signals picked up from nearby devices (e.g., adjacent buses, cables, etc.) that interfere with the measured current. In an example, the algorithm is based on mathematical compensation equations to be used in the control software. In the example, the measured current comes from a Hall current sensor on the bus. These sensors are cost-effective current measurement solutions, but they can pick up signals from adjacent buses. This affects the accuracy of the sensor and control, leading to distortion. As a well-known control method based on the Clark-Park transform, it is assumed that the three-phase system is symmetrical and satisfies the condition: I a +I b +I c =0. If the magnetic field of other current-carrying elements is close to the Hall sensor, the sensor measures a portion of the other bus current, which is added to the measured bus current. Physical shielding can be used to prevent this pickup, but this increases the component size and cost.

[0018] The principles of this disclosure include decoupling and calibration methods, as well as related apparatus and systems. For example, this disclosure includes mathematical compensation / decoupling algorithms in control to decouple the effects of adjacent buses on current measurement accuracy. Such algorithms are applicable to asymmetrical and symmetrical coupling arrangements in flat bus arrangements (e.g., delta for three-phase arrangements). Although occasional discussions concern three-phase system buses with current sensors that lack physical shielding, the disclosed algorithms can be used for all phase systems: 3, 6, 9, etc.

[0019] This document also discloses calibration algorithms. These calibration algorithms can be run before production (e.g., pre-run once or multiple times). To perform calibration, the sensor gain and offset are first calibrated. Then, a test current is run in phase A, and the coupling gain is measured based on the measured signals in the other phases. This step is repeated for all phases. The coupling factor (e.g., K, as described elsewhere in this document) is then calculated. a K b and K c Now the decoupling algorithm can be run. First, measure the current in all phases (i as discussed elsewhere in this article). a i b and i c It is best to use the same sample size and hold time. Then use the following equation to calculate the decoupling current: .

[0020] The benefits of implementing the principles of this disclosure include at least the following: low-cost / zero-cost solution, no additional hardware components, ease of implementation, improved control quality, improved overall system performance, and improved current measurement accuracy.

[0021] Refer to the attached diagram. Figure 1 System 2 of an electric power system 20 having another embodiment of this application is depicted. In the example, system 2 may be a vehicle, a power grid, a generator, an electric motor, etc., although these are merely some examples that will be obvious to those skilled in the art. The electric power system 20 includes a generator set subsystem 22. The generator set 22 includes a prime mover 22 in the form of an internal combustion engine 24. a A generator or alternator 30 is provided to deliver a three-phase alternating current (AC) voltage of the target amplitude and frequency. In other arrangements, power may be supplied as a single phase or in other configurations that will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0022] Engine 24 provides rotational mechanical power to generator 30 via rotary drive mechanism 26. Mechanism 26 may be a direct drive component, a device providing a non-unit turns ratio, a torque converter, a transmission, and / or various forms of rotary linkage that would be conceived by those skilled in the art. In one arrangement, mechanism 26 takes the form of an extension of the crankshaft of engine 24, which serves as a rotor within generator 30, and thus the engine and generator have a one-to-one turns ratio. Engine 24 of the depicted form includes one or more reciprocating pistons 23 in corresponding cylinders and is configured for spark ignition (SI) combustion. Correspondingly, engine 24 utilizes SI-compatible fuels, such as natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, molecular hydrogen, various gaseous fuels; gasoline; or other SI-compatible fuel types. Alternatively, the generator set engine may be a CI-type (such as a diesel fuel engine) utilizing fuels compatible with compression ignition (CI), such as diesel, JP8, or JP5. Fuel may be introduced via fuel injection. In some diesel engine embodiments, fuel is injected on a per-cylinder basis using direct injection or port injection—meaning each cylinder has one fuel injector—to facilitate independent, cylinder-by-cylinder fuel supply control. System 20 includes conduits 24. b 24 fuel sources supplied a This pipe is coupled to engine 24. (Source 24) a The fuel is mixed with air from the intake port 25 upstream of the piston 23 to supply fuel to it.

[0023] In other forms, the engine 24, mechanism 26, and / or generator 30 may be of other types; the engine 24 may be supplied with fuel alternately and / or have different combustion modes or cycles; and / or different forms of engine-based prime movers 22. a It can be used to provide mechanical power to generator 30, as a replacement or supplement to engine 24, such as C1 engine type, gas turbine engine type, two-stroke engine type, etc. Different types of prime movers 22 a This also includes, but is not limited to, wind turbines, hydro turbines and / or steam turbines.

[0024] Generator 30 includes excitation field windings 32 operatively coupled to controller 70, which will be further described below. The electrical power output of generator 30 is coupled to switchgear 40 to selectively couple the generator's electrical power output to and decouple it from load 46 (e.g., a power grid such as a utility grid, generator set, vehicle powertrain, etc.). For arrangements where system 20 is dedicated to supplying power to load 46 in the form of a power grid, switchgear 40 typically takes the form of a circuit breaker for each power line. Alternatively, for standby or backup power applications of system 20, switchgear 40 will typically include transfer switches coupled to load 46 and local electrical loads (not shown). Furthermore, one or more transformers may be provided between switchgear 40 and the connection to load 46 (not shown). In a non-limiting embodiment, generator set 22 includes an engine 24 in the form of a multi-cylinder reciprocating piston gas fuel type S1 and a generator 30 in the form of an alternator with a rotor, which may be mounted on an extension of the engine crankshaft (not shown).

[0025] The power system 20 also includes a voltage sensor 64 to monitor the magnitude of the voltage output by the generator 30 across conductor 34. Sensor 64 may be in the form of a circuit that samples the voltage drop across a known resistor, etc. The power system 20 also includes current sensors 62 that monitor the magnitude of the current flowing through conductor 34, neutral (N), and ground (GND) associated with the generator 30. Sensor 62 may be of a standard current transformer type or other types known to those skilled in the art. Sensor 66 is a standard type that provides a sensor signal representing the rotational speed of engine 24. In some forms, the sensor signal of sensor 66 represents the frequency of the electrical power output of generator 30; however, other techniques may be used to determine the frequency of the electrical power output. Sensors 62, 64, and 66 are converted to digital form for processing using standard techniques. Alternatively or additionally, in other embodiments, analog form of sensor signal processing may be used.

[0026] The power system 20 also includes a controller 70 coupled to sensors 62, 64, and 66. The controller 70 may be equipped with generator 30 as part of generator set 22 and may take the form of a single control unit for engine 24 and generator 30, or it may take the form of two or more control units, such as a dedicated engine control module (ECM) communicating with a dedicated generator / generator set control module, to name just a few non-limiting examples. In one particular form, engine 24, generator 30, and controller 70 are provided as an integrated device. Controller 70 includes inputs from current sensors 62 corresponding to the three phases of the electrical output of generator 30 (designated "3øI"), any detected neutral current (designated "NI"), and any detected electrical ground current (designated "GNDI"). Sensor 64 provides a voltage corresponding to the three-phase electrical output of generator 24 (designated "3øV"). Engine speed input from sensor 66 is designated "RPM". The operation of engine 24 is regulated by controller 70 in response to signals from the controller.

[0027] Controller 70 includes memory 74. Controller 70 executes operational logic defining various control, management, and / or regulation functions. This operational logic may be in the form of dedicated hardware, such as a hardwired state machine, programmed instructions, and / or various forms conceived by those skilled in the art. Controller 70 may be provided as a single component or a collection of operatively coupled components; and may be composed of digital circuitry, analog circuitry, software, or any hybrid combination of these types. Controller 70 may include multiple processing units arranged to operate independently, in a pipelined processing arrangement, in a parallel processing arrangement, and / or other arrangements conceived by those skilled in the art. When controller 70 is in a multi-component form, it may have one or more components remotely located relative to each other. In one embodiment, controller 70 is a programmable microprocessor device of the solid-state integrated circuit type, including one or more processing units and memory. In one form, controller 70 may include a computer network interface to facilitate communication using one or more standard communication protocols. Such an interface can be used to report system status information, receive sensor / detector inputs and operator inputs / outputs, transmit other data used in its operation, perform remote commissioning or monitoring of the controller 70, and / or receive operating logic updates in the form of programmed instructions, etc. It should be understood that one or more operator input controls (such as keyboards, pointers, switches, etc.) and one or more operator outputs (such as displays, alarms, indicators, etc.) may be included in the generator set 22, which has a suitable interface with the controller 70.

[0028] The memory 74 may include one or more types, including but not limited to semiconductor, magnetic, and / or optical types, and / or may be volatile and / or non-volatile types. In one form, the memory 74 stores programming instructions executed by the controller 70 to embody at least a portion of its operating logic. Alternatively or additionally, the memory 74 stores data manipulated by the operating logic of the controller 70. The controller 70 may include, as needed, signal conditioners, modulators, demodulators, arithmetic logic units (ALUs), central processing units (CPUs), oscillators, control clocks, amplifiers, communication ports, delay devices, signal format converters (such as analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters), limiters, clampers, filters, power supplies, etc., to perform the various control, management, and regulation operations described in this application.

[0029] The controller 70 can control / monitor multiple aspects of the operation of the generator set 22, such as electrical load changes / transients, electronic speed governor control, automatic voltage regulation, regulation of short-circuit current, engine speed sensing, engine fault monitoring, overload / overcurrent faults, neutral current faults, ground faults, short-circuit faults, automatic synchronization with other AC power sources, permission to connect in parallel with other generators, parallel control, overvoltage / undervoltage faults, remote metering and control, generator start control, output power calculation and display, reverse power faults, active power load sharing control during parallel operation, reactive power load sharing control during parallel operation, built-in self-diagnostics, and the supply of external diagnostic equipment, to name a few. Two common control functions are: (1) regulation of the frequency of the generator output waveform, usually performed by adjusting engine operation, and (2) regulation of the voltage and / or current generated by the generator 30.

[0030] In vehicle 2, the battery or other electrical system of vehicle 2 supplies power to various electronic accessories. These accessories may include, for example, accessories related to engine performance, safety features, comfort features, and any other type of vehicle subsystem. Various conditions may affect the ability of the powertrain or power system of vehicle 2 to transmit power to the accessories. For example, external conditions (such as the driving environment around vehicle 2) may affect vehicle performance. Conditions such as the road on which vehicle 2 is traveling, speed limits on the road, traffic around vehicle 2, and weather may affect the electrical system because the power required to operate the accessories may vary under these conditions. For example, when driving uphill or in heavy traffic, it may be necessary to concentrate more power on more critical vehicle subsystems rather than systems like the HVAC unit. Furthermore, there may be situations where one or more accessories or subsystems may be able to advantageously generate energy for the electrical system.

[0031] Converters perform many different functions in vehicle applications and power conversion, such as traction inverters for multiphase (e.g., three-phase, four-phase, etc.) motors (including permanent magnet motors, induction motors, and switched reluctance motors), battery chargers, air compressors, power steering systems, high-efficiency alternators, AC power output from inverters to electrical loads or the grid, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, electric fans, etc. Traditionally, separate fixed converters were used for different functions and configurations.

[0032] The in-phase current sensor 62 can be used in high-power drive applications to determine the phase current delivered by a power module to, for example, a motor. One embodiment of this in-phase current sensor 62 uses a core-based magnetocurrent sensing principle. Typically, the core-based in-phase current sensor 62 is a magnetic sensor that uses a field concentrator (e.g., a core wound around a current rail) to concentrate the magnetic field generated by the current flowing through the current rail onto a magnetic sensing element, allowing for measurement. Another embodiment of the in-phase current sensor 62 uses a coreless magnetocurrent sensing principle. Typically, the coreless in-phase current sensor 62 is a magnetic sensor that implements one or more sensing elements near the current rail, allowing measurement based on the magnetic field generated by the current flowing through the current rail (as sensed by one or more sensing elements). This in-phase current sensor 62 can be used, for example, in DC-AC inverters, DC / DC converters, AC / DC converters, DC / AC converters, AC / AC converters, etc.

[0033] This sensor 62 can be integrated into a control board (not shown), which is configured to receive sensor signals provided by the magnetic sensor and control the power module based on the sensor signals. That is, the control board can be configured to provide control to the power module based on the measurement results of the sensor signals, and the power module can adjust the current based on feedback from the control board. In this way, the motor control loop can be configured to maintain an appropriate current balance supplied to the motor. In some embodiments, the control board can be a printed circuit board (PCB) or another type of carrier material suitable for receiving the sensor module and providing routing and / or electrical connections to the sensor module, such as an integrated metal substrate (IMS), a ceramic substrate, a lead frame, a stamped lead frame, etc.

[0034] As mentioned above, Figure 1 This is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from those provided. Figure 1 The described example. For example, although... Figure 1 An example of a power system is shown, but other systems or subsystems of power electronic converters are also possible, such as DC / AC inverters, DC / DC converters, AC / DC converters, DC / AC converters, AC / AC converters, etc. Furthermore, Figure 1 The number and arrangement of components shown are provided as an example. In reality, with... Figure 1 Compared to the components shown, there may be more components, fewer components, different components, or components arranged in a different manner.

[0035] Having described the various structural and relational aspects of System 2 and its components, the various modes of Operating System 20 will now be described. Where applicable, these operating modes / processes may be implemented via operational logic executed by Controller 70 and / or using other such techniques conceived by those skilled in the art.

[0036] More specifically, according to this disclosure, Figure 2 The current sensor system has multiple current sensors and multiple current-carrying elements (e.g., conductive wires, busbars, etc.). As illustrated, the current sensor system 100 includes three rectangular conductors (i.e., busbars) carrying three currents. While in some examples the current carried by these busbars may be independent of each busbar, examples in which this is not the case are contemplated herein. As illustrated, according to this disclosure, the busbars are positioned adjacent to each other in a linear arrangement, each busbar configured to carry the current to be measured.

[0037] The current sensor system 100 includes multiple current-carrying elements (e.g., conductors, wires, busbars, etc.). As shown, the current sensor system 100 includes a first busbar 102, a second busbar 104, and a third busbar 106. Each busbar has a current sensor attached thereto, but other arrangements are contemplated herein. A first current sensor 108 is attached to the first busbar 102, a second current sensor 110 is attached to the second busbar 104, and a third current sensor 112 is attached to the third busbar 106. Other devices such as transistors may also be attached to the buses 102, 104, and 106 without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0038] The current sensors used herein can measure current directly or indirectly and facilitate monitoring of the current to be measured. Each of the current sensors 108, 110, and 112 includes one or more sensing elements capable of measuring the current flowing through one or more of the buses 102, 104, and 106. Alternatively, the sensing element can measure a magnetic field. In the example, the measurement of the magnetic field can be performed using a linear relationship between the magnetic field measured by the sensor and the current flowing in the bus. The current sensors 108, 110, and 112 can be magnetic field-based current sensors including at least one sensing element. The sensing element generates a magnetic field signal in response to the magnetic field. The term "magnetic field-based current sensor" includes one or more sensing elements combined with other circuitry to determine the amount of current flowing through the system. Although some embodiments may show or describe only one sensing element, it should be understood that each current sensor may have more than one sensing element.

[0039] The current sensor system 100 can be used in various applications, such as for sensing the magnetic field generated by a current carried by a current-carrying bus, or for sensing the magnetic field density to determine the current. The sensing element of each current sensor 108, 110, 112 can be any sensing element disclosed herein (e.g., a Hall effect element, a magnetoresistive element, or a magnetotransistor), and each current sensor can include one or more such elements of the same or different types. Each of the current sensors 108, 110, 112 can include one or more sensing elements configured to sense the current passing through one or more of the buses 102, 104, 106 and / or the resulting magnetic field generated by the current passing through them. Magnetic coupling may occur from one or more buses adjacent to the current sensor. Therefore, fluctuations in the sensed current and / or magnetic field can be used to indicate the detection of an interfering magnetic field. This indication can then be used to generate a magnetic field signal indicating the detected magnetic field.

[0040] Figure 3 A two-dimensional cross-sectional view, represented by the X and Y axes, is shown, where current flows in the Z direction (e.g., into or out of the XY plane). Three current sensors 108, 110, 112, each having one or more sensing elements, are arranged asymmetrically adjacent to each other and coplanarly positioned. As discussed elsewhere herein, these sensors 108, 110, 112 measure current and / or fields. As illustrated, each busbar 102, 104, 106 has a magnetic field (the direction of which is indicated by a circular arrow) associated with the positive (+) or negative (-) current flowing through it. The intersections between the circular arrows indicate the interaction between the magnetic fields generated by the current sensor system 100.

[0041] The first busbar 102 has a first current sensor 108 attached thereto and an associated magnetic field 114. The second busbar 104 has a second current sensor 110 attached thereto and an associated second magnetic field 116. The third busbar has a third current sensor 112 attached thereto and an associated third magnetic field 118. The three magnetic fields 114, 116, and 118 interact with each other, such as... Figure 3 The intersecting circular arrows shown illustrate this. As described elsewhere in this document, the arrows indicate the direction of the magnetic field. Furthermore, the intersections between the arrows indicate potential interference that could distort readings from current sensors 108, 110, and 112.

[0042] Algorithms can be generated using calibration processes to establish non-physical barriers between adjacent buses 102, 104, and 106 to reduce distortion of readings from current sensors 108, 110, and 112. Buses 102, 104, and 106 can be coupled to a current source that supplies current to each of buses 102, 104, and 106. This current can be a reference current generated by a reference current source. This source can be integrated with the current sensor system 100 or can be externally coupled to the current sensor system 100. The current sensor can be an integrated circuit including a Hall sensor or a Hall integrated circuit. In other embodiments, the magnetic field sensor chip can be an xMR sensor, particularly an AMR sensor, a GMR sensor, or a TMR sensor. Signal amplification, analog-to-digital conversion, digital signal processing, and offset and temperature compensation can also be performed in the Hall integrated circuit. Components for signal amplification and / or analog-to-digital conversion, other than the Hall plate, may or may not be considered part of the sensor element.

[0043] The sensing element may be a differential sensing element that determines the difference between the magnetic field strengths captured separately in the sensing element. In some embodiments, each of the current sensors 108, 110, 112 may include an integrated sensing element. For example, one or more sensing elements may be provided in the form of an integrated circuit and / or include additional processing circuitry, and may be encapsulated within the current sensors 108, 110, 112 in an electrically insulating material. The sensing element and additional circuitry may form a single integrated circuit current sensor, or may be included on a separate semiconductor die coupled to multiple integrated circuits.

[0044] Figure 4 It shows the plotted relative to time. Figures 1 to 3The graph depicts the current measured at each of the current sensors. First current curve 302 depicts the current measured at first current sensor 108 (e.g., first phase current), second current curve 304 depicts the current measured at second current sensor 110 (e.g., second phase current), and third current curve 306 depicts the current measured at third current sensor 112 (e.g., third phase current). Combined current curve 308 depicts the sum of the three current curves 302, 304, and 306.

[0045] Figure 5 The interaction between the magnetic fields generated by three current sensors positioned adjacent to each other in a symmetrical arrangement is illustrated. Although depicted in a triangular arrangement, other arrangements are envisioned in this paper. Figure 3 The illustrated current sensor system 100 is similar, and includes a first bus 402, a second bus 404, and a third bus 406. A first current sensor 408 is attached to the first bus 402, which generates a first magnetic field 414 when current flows through it. A second current sensor 410 is attached to the second bus 404, which generates a second magnetic field 416 when current flows through it. A third current sensor 412 is attached to the third bus 406, which generates a third magnetic field 418 when current flows through it.

[0046] Figure 6 It shows the plotted relative to time. Figure 5 A graph showing the current measured at each current sensor in a current sensor array. This graph can be similar to... Figure 4 The graphs shown are as follows. For example, the first current curve 502 describes the current measured at the first current sensor 408, the second current curve 504 describes the current measured at the second current sensor 410, and the third current curve 506 describes the current measured at the third current sensor 412. The combined current curve 508 describes the sum of the three current curves 502, 504, and 506. It is worth noting that this combined current curve 508 is not equal to zero during the sampling time it is plotted. This indicates that there is a coupling effect between buses 402, 404, and 406.

[0047] Figure 7An example is illustrated of a shielded current sensor including a current sensor mounted with shielding to prevent magnetic interference. The shielded current sensor 600 is capable of being attached to a bus (in a manner similar to system 100). The shielded current sensor 600 is attached to a circuit board 602 and includes a current sensor 604 communicating with the circuit board 602 (in a manner similar to system 100). A first shield 606 and a second shield 608 are also attached to the bus 602 on both sides of the current sensor 604. Providing shielding elements (such as the first shield 606 and the second shield 608) helps to shield the current sensor 604 from interference generated by any adjacent bus. However, this can be an expensive solution, as the cost of each of these shielding elements may exceed the cost of the current sensor itself, resulting in a total cost of the current sensor system exceeding three times. Depending on the desired application, such an expense may be reasonable. Therefore, alternatively, one or more physical shielding elements can be provided between the current sensors in conjunction with decoupling. As described above, the decoupling algorithm disclosed herein can calculate a corrected current measurement. As discussed elsewhere herein, the corrected reading is calculated by subtracting the coupling effects from adjacent current sensors.

[0048] Figure 8 This shows the plot of three current sensors (such as...) relative to time. Figures 1 to 7 The graph shows the calibrated current measured at each current sensor in the current sensor array. The first current curve 702 describes the current measured at the first current sensor, the second current curve 704 describes the current measured at the second current sensor, and the third current curve 706 describes the current measured at the third current sensor. The combined current curve 708 describes the sum of the three current curves. Current curve 708 is equal to zero in time, indicating that the coupling effect borrowed from adjacent currents has been successfully subtracted.

[0049] Figure 9 and Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining the current in one or more buses of a current sensor system (such as current sensor system 100) according to the present disclosure. For each sensing element, the magnetic coupling between the sensing element and each of the plurality of buses is characterized. The magnetic coupling from each sensing element to the bus can be determined and used to compensate for unwanted coupling. A controller generates a coupling factor for each sensing element. To determine the magnetic coupling between the sensing element of the current sensor and each of the buses, a reference current is provided to each of the buses.

[0050] When a reference current is supplied to each of the buses, the buses generate a magnetic field, which is sensed by the sensing element of each current sensor in the current sensors. The sensing element can generate a magnetic field signal corresponding to the sensed field. Current sensors 108, 110, and 112 may include additional circuitry to receive the magnetic field signal and generate an output signal, such as an output voltage, corresponding to the sensed magnetic field.

[0051] A reference current can be provided at a predetermined level, which is high enough to allow each current sensor in the system to detect the resulting magnetic field. Therefore, the level of the reference current can be based at least in part on the type, size, and characteristics of the bus and / or current sensors, as well as on the configuration of the current sensors within the current sensor system.

[0052] The coupling factor of a given sensing element can be determined by various means. For example, it can be measured, derived from a model, and / or calculated analytically. Regarding the measurement of the coupling factor, this process can be performed in a laboratory setting. As an example of this measurement process, first run the current only in phase A and measure the currents in other phases (B, C, D, etc.). The coupling factor is then calculated as follows: K ab = I b / I a K ac = I c / I a Next, run the current only in the second phase B and measure the signals in the other phases. The coupling factor K is calculated as follows: ba = I a / I b K bc = I c / I b And so on. This process is continued for all other phases. In this respect, the coupling factor can be a ratio of currents (e.g., the measured current divided by the operating current) and / or a ratio of induced current (e.g., the induced current experienced by other phases when only current is running in phase A) to the applied current. Optionally, the coupling factor can be derived from finite element electromagnetic simulation. Optionally, analytical calculations can be used, although these may be the least preferred option due to large errors. Typically, these derivations of the coupling factor are repeated for each current sensor in the system, and these derivations can be performed by a controller coupled to each current sensor. The coupling factor is then used to determine the current in one or more of the plurality of buses.

[0053] In practice, the above decoupling algorithm can include two processes: a calibration process and an implementation process. Figure 9A calibration procedure 800 is described, in which a coupling factor is calculated for later use in the implementation process. Procedure 800 begins at block 802, where a test current is passed through a first current sensor, while no current is passed through the other current sensors among the plurality of current sensors. At block 804, the amount of test current transferred from the first current sensor to the other current sensors is measured by collecting readings from the other current sensors through which no test current is passed.

[0054] At block 806, a test current passes through the second current sensor, while no current passes through the other current sensors (including the first current sensor). At block 808, the amount of test current transferred from the first current sensor to the other current sensors is measured by collecting readings from the other current sensors (including the first current sensor) through which no test current passes.

[0055] At block 810, the algorithm determines whether any other current sensors exist in the current sensor system. If a subsequent current sensor is found, the algorithm repeats block 806 and tests the current through that subsequent current sensor. However, if no other current sensor is found at block 810, the algorithm proceeds to block 812, where measurements collected at each current sensor where the current did not pass are used to calculate the coupling factor. Based on the configuration of the current sensor system, the coupling factor of each current sensor is determined. This calculation of the coupling factor can be performed using any derivations discussed elsewhere in this document, including via laboratory measurements, electromagnetic simulations, and analytical calculations.

[0056] Once the coupling factor is calculated, a calibration algorithm can now be used to determine the corrected reading from the current sensor. For example... Figure 10 As shown, implementation process 900 (or post-deployment process) begins at block 902, where the current to be measured passes through all current sensors simultaneously without restriction. At block 904, readings are collected from each of the current sensors. These readings represent the amount of current passing through each of the current sensors plus the amount of current transferred from adjacent current sensors to each current sensor. At block 906, a corrected current measurement is calculated by subtracting the amount of current transferred from adjacent current sensors to each current sensor. Therefore, the result of this calculation represents the true amount of current passing through each of the current sensors, without any additional current transferred to each current sensor due to coupling effects.

[0057] Specific example implementations of the principles of this disclosure will now be discussed. These examples are among the many examples disclosed herein, and those skilled in the art will recognize them based on this disclosure.

[0058] In Example 1, a method for measuring current in a multiphase system comprising a plurality of current-carrying elements disposed adjacent to each other includes the following steps: receiving a first current through a first current-carrying element of the plurality of current-carrying elements; receiving a test signal of a second current carried by a second current-carrying element of the plurality of current-carrying elements, the test signal corresponding to the amount of coupling effect between the first current-carrying element and the second current-carrying element caused by the current carried by the second current-carrying element, the second current-carrying element being adjacent to the first current-carrying element so as to be within the range of coupling effect related to the current carried by the second current-carrying element; and generating control logic for operating the multiphase system based on the current measurement value of the first current-carrying element, the control logic including an algorithm for decoupling the coupling effect of the second current-carrying element to the first current-carrying element to suppress inaccuracies in the current measurement value.

[0059] In Example 2, as described in Example 1, the test current is carried by the first current-carrying element, while the current is carried by the second current-carrying element.

[0060] In Example 3, the method as described in any one of Examples 1 or 2, wherein the first current and the second current are generated using a single current.

[0061] In Example 4, the method as described in any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the current measurement is a first current measurement, the method further includes monitoring at least one of the first current measurement of the first current-carrying element and a second current measurement of the second current-carrying element.

[0062] In Example 5, the method as described in any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the method constitutes a pre-deployment calibration of the multiphase system, the method further comprising repeating the pre-deployment calibration for each of the plurality of current-carrying elements.

[0063] In Example 6, the method as described in any one of Examples 1 to 5 is a zero-sum transformation, wherein the algebraic sum of the corrected current measurements of each of the plurality of current-carrying elements is zero, and wherein each of the corrected current measurements is equal to the corresponding current measurement minus the sum of each of the other current measurements multiplied by the corresponding coupling factor.

[0064] In Example 7, the method as described in any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the coupling factor is a constant value corresponding to the amount of test signal experienced by the respective current-carrying element during pre-deployment calibration.

[0065] In Example 8, the method as described in any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the coupling factor is calculated / obtained by applying a first current in the first current-carrying element and measuring a second current in the second current-carrying element and dividing the second current by the first current.

[0066] In Example 9, the method as described in any one of Examples 1 to 8 further includes repeating the pre-deployment calibration for all phases in the multiphase system.

[0067] In Example 10, the method as described in any one of Examples 1 to 9 is used, wherein the pre-deployment calibration is repeated for all phases in the multiphase system using the same sample and the same holding time.

[0068] In Example 11, the method as described in any one of Examples 1 to 10 further includes, after deploying the multiphase system, running an algorithm in such a way as to: measure current to obtain a measured current carried by each of the plurality of current-carrying elements; and obtain a corresponding current measurement value for each of the plurality of current-carrying elements, wherein the corresponding current measurement value is a correction current measurement value equal to the measured current of the corresponding current-carrying element minus the adjustment current of each of the other current-carrying elements in the plurality of current-carrying elements, wherein the adjustment current is equal to the measured current of the corresponding current-carrying element multiplied by the coupling factor of the corresponding current-carrying element.

[0069] In Example 12, the method as described in any one of Examples 1 to 11 further includes: monitoring a first current to obtain a label of the coupling effect on the current measurement; and adjusting the algorithm based on the current measurement.

[0070] In Example 13, a current sensor includes: a circuit and a plurality of terminals in electrical communication with the circuit, the plurality of terminals having a first adjacent terminal and a second adjacent terminal, a non-physical shield between the first adjacent terminal and the second adjacent terminal, the non-physical shield being used to decouple the influence of the first adjacent terminal on the current measurement accuracy of the second adjacent terminal.

[0071] In Example 14, the current sensor as described in Example 13 is generated by running an algorithm as a zero-sum transformation, wherein the algebraic sum of the corrected current measurements of each of the plurality of terminals is zero, and wherein each of the corrected current measurements is equal to the corresponding current measurement of the terminal among the plurality of terminals minus the sum of each of the other current measurements multiplied by the corresponding coupling factor.

[0072] In Example 15, an energy storage system includes: an energy storage device; and a controller configured to run an algorithm as described in any one of Examples 13 or 14.

[0073] In Example 16, a hybrid generator system includes: a generator set configured to generate electricity to drive a load; and an energy storage system as described in any one of Examples 13 to 15.

[0074] In Example 17, a circuit board includes a current sensor as described in any one of Examples 13 to 16.

[0075] In Example 18, a power electronic device includes a circuit board as described in any one of Examples 13 to 17.

[0076] In Example 19, a controller for decoupling sensors includes: at least one processor; and a memory including instructions that, when executed on the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: obtain current data indicating current measurements in each phase at a plurality of buses, the current data having current measurement accuracy; and perform an architecture configured to generate non-physical shielding between the plurality of buses to improve current measurement by decoupling the effects of adjacent terminals in the plurality of buses.

[0077] In Example 20, the controller is as described in Example 19, wherein the busbars are arranged asymmetrically within the current sensor.

[0078] It is well known that, for methods comprising one or more steps, the order listed is not a limitation of the claims unless expressly or implicitly stated otherwise in the specification or the claims themselves. It is also recognized that the illustrated methods are merely some examples among the many disclosed examples, and certain steps may be added or omitted without departing from the scope of this disclosure. These steps may include combining apparatus, systems, or methods or components thereof, as well as those well-known, conventional, and traditional in the art.

[0079] The connecting lines shown in the various figures contained herein are intended to illustrate exemplary functional relationships and / or physical couplings between various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may exist in actual systems. However, any beneficial effects, advantages, problem solutions, and technical features that enable or enhance any beneficial effects, advantages, or solutions should not be construed as key, essential, or core technical features of this invention. Accordingly, the scope of protection of this invention is defined only by the appended claims; wherein, singular references to elements in the claims, unless expressly stated, do not mean "only one," but rather "one or more." Furthermore, when phrases such as "at least one of A, B, or C" are used in the claims, such phrases are intended to be interpreted as indicating that only A may be present in one embodiment, only B may be present in one embodiment, only C may be present in one embodiment, or any combination of A, B, or C may be present in a single embodiment; for example, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C.

[0080] In the detailed description herein, references to "an embodiment," "an embodiment," "an example embodiment," etc., indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not every embodiment necessarily includes that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is believed that those skilled in the art, benefiting from this disclosure, can influence such feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments (whether explicitly described or not). After reading this specification, those skilled in the art will understand how to implement this disclosure with alternative embodiments.

[0081] Furthermore, regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is expressly mentioned in the claims, this disclosure is not intended to offer any element, component, or method step to the public. No element of any claim herein shall be construed in accordance with 35 USC 112(f) unless the element is expressly stated using the phrase “component for…”. As used herein, the term “comprising” or any other variation thereof is intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0082] While various embodiments of this disclosure have been shown and described, it should be understood that these embodiments are not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art can change, modify, and further apply the embodiments. Therefore, these embodiments are not limited to the details previously shown and described, but also include all such changes and modifications.

Claims

1. A method for measuring the current in a multiphase system, the multiphase system comprising a plurality of current-carrying elements arranged adjacent to each other, the method comprising the following steps: Receive a first current through a first current-carrying element among the plurality of current-carrying elements; Receive a test signal from a second current carried by a second current-carrying element among the plurality of current-carrying elements, the test signal corresponding to the amount of coupling effect between the first current-carrying element and the second current-carrying element caused by the current carried by the second current-carrying element, the second current-carrying element being adjacent to the first current-carrying element so as to be within the range of the coupling effect related to the current carried by the second current-carrying element; as well as Control logic for operating the multiphase system is generated based on the current measurement value of the first current-carrying element. The control logic includes an algorithm for decoupling the coupling effect of the second current-carrying element to the first current-carrying element in order to suppress the inaccuracy of the current measurement value.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the second current is carried by the first current-carrying element, and the current is carried by the second current-carrying element.

3. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first current and the second current are generated using a single current.

4. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the algorithm is a zero-sum transformation, wherein the algebraic sum of the corrected current measurements of each of the plurality of current-carrying elements is zero, and wherein each of the corrected current measurements is equal to the corresponding current measurement minus the sum of each of the other current measurements multiplied by the corresponding coupling factor.

5. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the current measurement is a first current measurement, and the method further comprises monitoring at least one of the first current measurement of the first current-carrying element and the second current measurement of the second current-carrying element.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the method constitutes a pre-deployment calibration of the multiphase system, the method further comprising repeating the pre-deployment calibration for each of the plurality of current-carrying elements.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the algorithm includes a coupling factor, the coupling factor being a constant value corresponding to the amount of test signal experienced by the respective current-carrying element during the pre-deployment calibration.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein the algorithm includes a coupling factor obtained by applying a first current in the first current-carrying element and measuring a second current in the second current-carrying element and dividing the second current by the first current.

9. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, the method further comprising repeating the pre-deployment calibration for all phases in the multiphase system.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the pre-deployment calibration is repeated for all phases in the multiphase system using the same sample and the same retention time.

11. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 10, further comprising running the algorithm after deploying the multiphase system in the following manner: Measuring the current to obtain the measured current carried by each of the plurality of current-carrying elements; and Obtain a corresponding current measurement value for each of the plurality of current-carrying elements, wherein the corresponding current measurement value is a correction current measurement value, the correction current measurement value being equal to the measured current of the corresponding current-carrying element minus the adjustment current of each of the plurality of current-carrying elements, wherein the adjustment current is equal to the measured current of the corresponding current-carrying element multiplied by the coupling factor of the corresponding current-carrying element.

12. The method according to any preceding claim, further comprising: Monitor the first current to obtain a label of the coupling effect on the current measurement value; as well as The algorithm is adjusted based on the measured current value.

13. A current sensor for integration in a system having a plurality of adjacent terminals, the plurality of adjacent terminals having a first adjacent terminal and a second adjacent terminal, the current sensor including a circuit and a first terminal of the plurality of adjacent terminals, the first terminal being electrically in communication with the circuit, the first adjacent terminal and the second adjacent terminal being shielded therebetween by a non-physical shielding member, the non-physical shielding member decoupling the influence of the first adjacent terminal on the current measurement accuracy of the second adjacent terminal.

14. The current sensor of claim 13, wherein the non-physical shield is generated by running an algorithm as a zero-sum transformation, wherein the algebraic sum of the corrected current measurements of each of the plurality of adjacent terminals is zero, and wherein each of the corrected current measurements is equal to the sum of the corresponding current measurements of the terminals among the plurality of adjacent terminals minus the sum of each of the other current measurements multiplied by the corresponding coupling factor.

15. A controller for decoupling a sensor, the controller comprising: At least one processor; and The memory includes instructions that, when executed on the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: Obtain current data indicating the current measurement values ​​in each phase at multiple busbars, wherein the current data has current measurement accuracy; as well as An architecture is implemented as follows: the architecture is configured to create a non-physical shield between the plurality of buses in order to improve current measurement by decoupling the effects of adjacent terminals in the plurality of buses, and optionally, the buses are arranged asymmetrically within the current sensor.

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