Sensor, sensor arrangement, circuit breaker, method, charging cable and charging station

Abstract

The invention relates to a sensor for determining an electric differential current, which comprises a magnetic-field-sensitive component, a first main winding and a test winding, wherein the sensor is designed in such a way that a periodic current or a periodic voltage at a frequency of at least 10 kHz can be applied to the first main winding. The invention further relates to a sensor arrangement, a circuit breaker, a charging cable and a charging station each comprising a sensor of this type, and to a method for operating a sensor, a sensor arrangement or a circuit breaker.

Description

[0001] Sensor, sensor arrangement, circuit breaker, process, charging cable and charging station

[0002] The invention relates to a sensor for determining an electrical differential current, a sensor arrangement for determining an electrical differential current, a circuit breaker, a method, a charging cable and a charging station.

[0003] Sensors for determining residual currents are available in different designs and for different applications, especially since residual currents pose a danger to people and can cause fires.

[0004] Residual currents occur when an electrical supply network, particularly a circuit within an electrical supply network, is defective, causing a fault current to flow to earth within the electrical supply network. Depending on the type and structure of an electrical supply network, residual currents can contain alternating current and / or direct current components.

[0005] The steady expansion of the use of renewable energies, electromobility, variable-speed electrical machines and / or similar systems is leading to a numerical expansion of electrical systems in which AC and DC supply networks are coupled. As a result, the DC components of residual currents are becoming increasingly important. In domestic electrical installations, most electrical devices installed are type A residual current devices. These can monitor the domestic electrical supply network for residual currents with AC components, but cannot detect or switch off DC faults. However, the use of DC elements is also increasing in domestic electrical installations, for example when charging an electric vehicle or operating solar systems.

[0006] Therefore, especially when operating charging infrastructure or solar inverters or the like, a universal current sensitive monitoring of residual currents is necessary, which includes a residual current sensor, the measured value of which leads to the shutdown of the relevant infrastructure if a limit value is exceeded.

[0007] Type B residual current devices (RCDs) are known for the operation of charging infrastructure, solar inverters, and similar devices. These devices can also detect and monitor DC components of residual currents. However, type B residual current devices are comparatively expensive.

[0008] A so-called universal-current sensitive differential current sensor simultaneously monitors all currents flowing in the phases and the neutral conductor and detects possible DC and AC faults. Depending on the application, the sensor can independently shut down the system in the event of a fault or report the exceeding of the sound threshold to a higher-level control unit. Since the tolerable fault currents are very small, very high measurement accuracy is necessary. In addition, personal safety demands particularly fast detection and subsequent shutdown of the entire system. A well-known design for universal-current sensitive differential current sensors is so-called flux-gate sensors. Such a sensor usually has a magnetic field sensitive component and a main winding that encloses the magnetic field sensitive component with a plurality of turns.Furthermore, a test winding is provided, which also surrounds the magnetic-field-sensitive component with a plurality of turns. The magnetic-field-sensitive component is preferably annular, so that it has a through-opening. Furthermore, such a sensor preferably has a shield, which has a receiving space designed to accommodate the magnetic-field-sensitive component, the first main winding, and the test winding.

[0009] To perform a measurement, the sensor is arranged around at least two electrical conductors. The main winding is subjected to a periodic voltage or current. An output signal is tapped from the test winding or the main winding, which depends on the differential current in the electrical conductors.

[0010] In this case, the magnetic field-sensitive component is sometimes driven into saturation in each half-period, i.e., the saturation flux density of the magnetic field-sensitive component is reached. Typical frequencies of the periodic current or voltage application at which such sensors operate are in the range of 2 to 7 kHz.

[0011] Such sensors have generally proven themselves to be useful; however, some people consider it to be disadvantageous that such sensors generate a clearly audible noise during operation, which is usually at twice the frequency of the periodic voltage or current application, i.e. in a range of around 4 to 14 kHz. Users may find this type of noise unpleasant. In particular, the noise may lead the user to falsely assume that the sensor or the device used in conjunction with it is not working properly or is of inferior quality. If the noise generated by a sensor is to be reduced, damping material must be used, which, however, requires more space and increases the cost of the sensor.

[0012] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a sensor which offers an improvement or an alternative to the prior art and in particular avoids the disadvantages mentioned above.

[0013] According to a first aspect of the invention, this object is achieved by a sensor for determining an electrical dif ference current, in particular for universal current-sensitive determination of a dif ference current,

[0014] - wherein the sensor comprises a magnetic field sensitive component, a first main winding and a test winding,

[0015] - wherein the magnetic field-sensitive component has a through-opening,

[0016] - wherein the first main winding and the test winding each have a plurality of turns enclosing the magnetic field sensitive component,

[0017] - wherein the sensor is designed to be arranged around at least two electrical conductors, wherein the sensor is designed such that the first main winding can be subjected to a periodic current or a periodic voltage with a frequency of at least 9 kHz.

[0018] The invention is based on the idea of ​​reducing the frequency of a generated noise to values ​​above 18 kHz by selecting a frequency above 9 kHz, which is no longer perceptible or at least only slightly perceptible to the human ear, so that noise emissions can no longer be perceived or only slightly perceptible. In this way, the operation of a sensor, for example, when charging an electric vehicle, is no longer perceived as disturbing.

[0019] Sensors are known in the state of the art which operate at a significantly lower frequency than that proposed here.

[0020] The choice of a frequency of 2 to 7 kHz for the application of the first main winding is based on the relationships of the law of induction. Accordingly, the frequency is proportional to the applied voltage and inversely proportional to the number of turns around the magnetic field-sensitive component, to the saturation flux density, and to the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic field-sensitive component. A frequency of approximately 2 to 7 kHz generally leads to a good compromise with regard to the other properties, resulting in a favorable sensor property profile overall.

[0021] At first glance, an argument against increasing the frequency is that it would require redesigning the sensor. First, the voltage can be increased. However, voltages higher than 12 volts are rarely available, so increasing the voltage requires additional electrical components. Reducing the number of turns to increase the frequency requires a higher current to achieve the same field strength, thus driving the magnetic-field-sensitive component into saturation. This requires more costly components.

[0022] If the relative permeability of the magnetic-field-sensitive component is reduced, higher current consumption is required. At the same time, higher noise emissions may occur, which means that more powerful filters are needed to process sensor signals.

[0023] The saturation flux density is a material constant. Materials with a lower saturation flux density and equally good other properties are rare. A smaller cross-section of the magnetic field-sensitive component, in turn, leads to reduced mechanical load-bearing capacity.

[0024] A higher frequency also means that the signal processing must be improved, which is associated with higher costs and / or larger space requirements.

[0025] Thus, at first glance, many factors speak against increasing the frequency of the periodic current or the periodic voltage.

[0026] However, despite these factors, increasing the frequency to values ​​above 9 kHz has surprisingly proven advantageous in this case, as the resulting noise then has a frequency above 18 kHz and is therefore outside the range of audibility of the human ear or can at least only be perceived to a limited extent. This means that unpleasant noises can be avoided when the sensor is in operation. At the same time, the higher frequency results in a shorter detection time for differential currents compared to state-of-the-art sensors. This means that a faster response to fault currents is possible and, if necessary, a circuit can be interrupted if fault currents are detected. This significantly increases the safety of a circuit monitored by such a sensor, as the risk of personal injury and damage to equipment is further minimized.

[0027] At the same time, there is less material expenditure on current and / or voltage transformers.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment, the frequency of the application of a periodic current or a periodic voltage can be at least 10 kHz, in particular at least 11 kHz, preferably at least 12 kHz and particularly preferably at least 14 kHz.

[0029] Furthermore, the frequency of the application of a periodic current or a periodic voltage can be at most 20 kHz, in particular at most 18 kHz, preferably at most 16 kHz, particularly preferably at most 15 kHz.

[0030] The following term is explained in this regard:

[0031] First of all, it should be expressly pointed out that in the context of this patent application, indefinite articles and numerical expressions such as "one", "two", etc. are generally to be understood as "at least" expressions, i.e. as "at least one...", "at least two...", etc., unless it is expressly clear from the respective context or it is obvious or technically necessary for the person skilled in the art that only "exactly one...", "exactly two...", etc. can be meant. In the context of this patent application, the expression "in particular" is always to be understood as introducing an optional, preferred feature. The expression is not to be understood as "and namely" or "namely".

[0032] A "periodic current" or a "periodic voltage" occurs when a current or voltage changes repeatedly in the same way. This means that the current or voltage curve has a regular, i.e. periodically repeating, shape over time. One can also speak of a periodically changing current or a periodically changing voltage. The current or voltage can periodically oscillate or swing between a minimum value and a maximum value. This is also referred to as an oscillating curve or an oscillation. The difference between the maximum value and the minimum value is also referred to as the amplitude. The frequency indicates the inverse of the duration of a period, i.e. of an oscillation.

[0033] An example of a periodic current or periodic voltage is a sinusoidal current or voltage. Other examples of periodic currents or periodic voltages include rectangular, triangular, trapezoidal, needle-shaped, or sawtooth-shaped periodic currents or voltages. Periodic currents or voltages can be alternating currents or voltages. This means that the current and voltage values ​​cross zero in each period. In particular, the average value of the current or voltage applied over time can be zero. Pulsed periodic voltages or currents are also possible, which fluctuate between a zero value and a maximum value and in particular have a rectangular profile.A "sensor" or "detector" is a technical component that can detect certain physical or chemical properties and / or the material composition of its environment qualitatively or quantitatively as a "measured variable." These variables are detected by means of physical or chemical effects and converted into an analog or digital electrical signal. Such a signal is also referred to as a "sensor signal."

[0034] Preferably, a sensor signal is proportional to a current consumption, in particular the current consumption of the test winding and / or the first main winding and / or a second main winding. Preferably, a sensor signal, in particular a sensor signal of the test winding and / or the first main winding and / or a second main winding, can be converted into a current consumption using a mathematical rule.

[0035] A "current consumption" is understood to mean the current intensity which flows through the circuit at a defined voltage, in particular through the test winding and / or the first main winding and / or a second main winding. It should be expressly pointed out that the term "current consumption" does not require any statement about the sign of the current. In particular, a current consumption can correspond to a positive or a negative current.

[0036] Preferably, the sensor signal is understood to be the current consumption of the first main winding. Preferably, the current consumption of the first main winding can be converted into a differential current of the circuit designated by the sensor by means of a mathematical rule. Preferably, this mathematical rule can be determined by a calibration curve of the sensor. An "electrical differential current" is understood to be the vectorial sum of the currents of all electrical conductors around which the sensor is arranged.

[0037] An electrical di f ference current may have an alternating current component and / or a direct current component.

[0038] A "universal current sensitive determination" of a differential current means that the sensor is designed to be able to determine both an alternating current component and a direct current component.

[0039] A "magnetic field sensitive component" is understood to be a component that reacts to a magnetic field by changing at least one state variable of the component.

[0040] A magnetic field sensitive component is preferably understood to be a material which has magnetic properties.

[0041] Particularly preferably, a magnetic field-sensitive component is understood to be a soft magnetic material. In other words, the magnetic field-sensitive component can comprise or consist of a soft magnetic material.

[0042] A "soft magnetic material" is a material that can be easily magnetized in a magnetic field. Preferably, a soft magnetic material has a coercive field strength of less than or equal to 1,000 A / m.

[0043] The term "coercive field strength" refers to the magnetic field strength required to charge a magnetic field sensitive material that has previously been charged to the saturation flux density.

[0044] to completely demagnetize the component.

[0045] A soft magnetic material is preferably understood to be a material which has been made from an amorphous metal and has a nanocrystalline structure.

[0046] In particular, a soft magnetic material comprises an alloy comprising iron, nickel and cobalt.

[0047] A "winding" is understood to mean a winding of an electrically conductive material in the solid state, particularly in the form of a wire, running around a component sensitive to a magnetic field.

[0048] A "main winding" is understood to be a winding that is designed to be actively supplied with an electric current by means of a power source. Alternatively, a main winding can also be connected to a voltage source. A main winding can also be referred to as a "first main winding".

[0049] Preferably, a main winding, in particular a first main winding, is configured to provide a sensor signal, in particular indirectly through the current consumption of the main winding, in particular indirectly through the current consumption of the first main winding and / or the second main winding.

[0050] Preferably, the differential current of the circuit specifically monitored by the sensor can be determined from the current consumption of the main winding, in particular of the first and / or a second main winding, by means of a mathematical rule, preferably by means of a mathematical rule which can be derived from a calibration of the sensor. A “test winding” is understood to mean a winding which, as a purely passive component, is designed to have an electric current flowing through it as a result of an induction effect emanating from the magnetic field-sensitive component. The test winding can preferably be designed to provide a test winding signal which can be used in particular in the context of a calibration of the sensor. In particular, the test winding preferably has a different number of turns than the main winding.

[0051] Preferably, a calibration of the sensor is carried out each time the measuring operation is started before the actual measuring operation begins.

[0052] Preferably, the test winding is configured to provide a sensor signal, in particular indirectly through the current consumption of the test winding.

[0053] Preferably, the differential current of the circuit designated to be monitored by the sensor can be determined from the current consumption of the test winding by means of a mathematical rule, preferably by means of a mathematical rule which can be derived from a calibration of the sensor.

[0054] Preferably, the sensor comprises a shield, wherein the shield comprises a receiving space which is designed to receive the magnetic field sensitive component, the first main winding and the test winding.

[0055] A "shield" is understood to mean a component which is designed to keep electrical and / or magnetic fields away from the magnetic field-sensitive component and / or to protect the environment of the sensor from the electrical and / or magnetic fields emanating from the sensor.

[0056] The shield preferably consists of an alloy containing greater than or equal to 20 wt.% nickel, preferably greater than or equal to 30 wt.% nickel, and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 50 wt.% nickel. Furthermore, the shield preferably consists of an alloy containing greater than or equal to 60 wt.% nickel, further preferably greater than or equal to 70 wt.% nickel, and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 80 wt.% nickel.

[0057] The shield preferably consists of an alloy containing greater than or equal to 0.5 wt.% molybdenum, preferably greater than or equal to 1 wt.% molybdenum, and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 3 wt.% molybdenum. Furthermore, the shield preferably consists of an alloy containing greater than or equal to 4 wt.% molybdenum, further preferably greater than or equal to 5 wt.% molybdenum, and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 5.5 wt.% molybdenum.

[0058] The shield preferably consists of an alloy containing greater than or equal to 10 wt.% iron, preferably greater than or equal to 20 wt.% iron, and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 30 wt.% iron. Furthermore, the shield preferably consists of an alloy containing greater than or equal to 40 wt.% iron, further preferably greater than or equal to 50 wt.% iron, and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 55 wt.% iron.

[0059] It should be expressly pointed out that the above values ​​for the alloy composition of the shield are not to be understood as sharp limits, but rather are intended to be able to be exceeded or undercut on an engineering scale without departing from the described aspect of the invention. In simple terms, the values ​​are intended to provide an indication of the size of the alloy composition of the shield proposed here. The receiving space of the shield can be delimited in the radial direction by an outer shield wall and an inner shield wall. The inner shield wall can define a through opening in the shield, wherein the through opening in the shield is preferably designed as an oval with two axes of symmetry. In a further embodiment, the shield can have a circumferential gap in the region of the inner shield wall.

[0060] The shield is preferably designed in several parts, in particular in two parts.

[0061] Particularly preferably, a two-part shield is designed in such a way that the two shielding parts overlap or at least partially overlap on the outer wall of the shield.

[0062] Furthermore, a two-part shield is particularly preferably designed in such a way that the two shielding parts do not touch each other on the inner wall of the shield, wherein the two shielding parts of a two-part shield further preferably form a gap on the inner wall of the shield.

[0063] A "through-opening" is understood to be a free cross-section formed in the interior of the magnetic field-sensitive component.

[0064] Particularly preferably, the outer contour of the magnetic-field-sensitive component is formed as an oval, and the inner contour of the magnetic-field-sensitive component is also formed as an oval with two axes of symmetry. The inner contour of the magnetic-field-sensitive component forms the through-opening of the magnetic-field-sensitive component.

[0065] Preferably, the material thickness of the magnetic-field-sensitive component is largely constant or constant. In the special case in which the magnetic-field-sensitive component is formed as a circle in cross-section and the material thickness of the magnetic-field-sensitive component is constant, the magnetic-field-sensitive component has the geometry of a circular ring in cross-section.

[0066] An "oval" is a plane, rounded, convex figure. An oval includes circles and ellipses as special cases, although an arbitrary oval, in contrast to these, does not need to have an "axis of symmetry". In particular, an oval is a closed, twice continuously differentiable convex curve in the plane.

[0067] If the curve of an oval is arranged in a mirror image on both sides of an imaginary line, then the oval has one axis of symmetry. If the curve of an oval is arranged in a mirror image on both sides of two non-coincident imaginary lines, then the oval has "two axes of symmetry". In particular, a circle and an ellipse are each an oval with two axes of symmetry.

[0068] A "turn" is understood to mean one revolution of a winding around the magnetic field-sensitive component.

[0069] A "receiving space" is understood to mean the space which is formed inside the shield by the shield and which is designed to receive further components, in particular the magnetic field sensitive component, the first main winding and the test winding and preferably also a second main winding, an insulator and a spacer ring. A "radial direction" is understood to mean a direction which runs from a central axis of the sensor, which runs normal to the smallest possible cross-sectional area of ​​the through opening, in a straight line in the radial direction to the central axis.

[0070] A "shielding outer wall" is understood to mean the outer surface, viewed in the radial direction, which is formed by the shielding, in particular by a two-part shielding that is plugged together.

[0071] The term "shielding inner wall" is understood to mean the inner surface, viewed in the radial direction, which is formed by the shielding, in particular by the projected surface which includes any partial surfaces of the inner shielding and the circumferential gap.

[0072] A "circumferential gap" is understood to be a gap in the inner shielding wall that runs circumferentially between the partial surfaces of the inner shielding wall formed by the shielding. Viewed in the radial direction and starting from the central axis, the circumferential gap opens the shielding in the direction of the receiving space of the shielding.

[0073] An "electrical conductor" is any medium that has mobile charge carriers and is thus capable of transporting electrical charge. Preferably, an electrical conductor is a copper cable and / or an aluminum cable through which electrons can move.

[0074] A "clear width" along an axis of symmetry of the passage opening is understood to mean the extension of the passage opening in the direction and at the height of the considered axis of symmetry.

[0075] If the oval forming the through-opening of the magnetic field sensitive component in cross section has two axes of symmetry with different extensions along the axes of symmetry, this results in a first clear width along the first axis of symmetry and a second clear width along the second axis of symmetry.

[0076] Where only a clear width is mentioned in the present description, this preferably means the clear width along the axis of symmetry with the greater extension.

[0077] A "limit current" is understood to be a differential current that a sensor can detect with sufficient accuracy and speed so that a circuit breaker can interrupt the voltage in the circuit monitored by the sensor as soon as a differential current is detected by the sensor that at least reaches or exceeds the limit current of the circuit breaker.

[0078] The smaller the limit current of a circuit breaker and thus also the measuring ability of the sensor for small differential currents and the faster this is reliably detected by the sensor, the lower the danger that can arise from a differential current occurring.

[0079] Specifically, it is also proposed here that the sensor be designed in such a way that it can be arranged around all conductors of a circuit that, during normal operation, introduce an electrical current into the circuit to be monitored and discharge an electrical current into the circuit to be monitored. In particular, it is proposed that the sensor proposed here should not be arranged around the protective conductor.

[0080] In particular, it is proposed that the sensor proposed here be positioned around the phase conductor and the neutral conductor in a single-phase power system. Accordingly, the sensor should be positioned around two electrical conductors in a single-phase power system.

[0081] Furthermore, for intended use in a three-phase power system, it is proposed to position the sensor around the three phase conductors and the neutral conductor. Thus, the sensor should be positioned around a total of four electrical conductors in a three-phase power system.

[0082] It is preferably proposed that the through-opening of the magnetic field-sensitive component has a circle in cross-section, i.e. an oval with two semiradii of equal length.

[0083] It is furthermore preferably proposed that the through-opening of the magnetic field-sensitive component has an ellipse in cross-section, i.e. an oval with two semiradii of different lengths.

[0084] It is expressly pointed out that the feature that the through opening of the magnetic field sensitive component is formed in cross section as an oval with two axes of symmetry is not essential within the meaning of the present invention.

[0085] Rather, other geometries of the magnetic field-sensitive component are also conceivable here, which allow a good compromise with regard to the aforementioned physical effects. These geometries are preferably also based on an oval-shaped cross-section. According to a preferred embodiment, the through-opening of the magnetic field-sensitive component has at least one clear width along an axis of symmetry. The clear width can be at least 25.2 mm, in particular at least 25.5 mm, particularly preferably 25.8 mm, and / or at most 32 mm, in particular at most 29 mm, preferably at most 27 mm.

[0086] A clear width of the through-opening of the magnetic-field-sensitive component in such a range has proven advantageous. This is based on the consideration that there is an optimal range of the clear width of the through-opening of the magnetic-field-sensitive component in which the smallest possible differential currents can be detected in a sufficient time and, at the same time, the probability of erroneous triggering of a circuit breaker connected to a sensor can be significantly reduced.

[0087] Depending on the geometry of the magnetic field sensitive component, it is proposed to adapt or design the geometry of the shielding accordingly.

[0088] Specifically, it is also proposed here that the magnetic field sensitive component has a high relative permeability.

[0089] The "permeability" of a magnetic field-sensitive component is understood to mean the magnetization of a material in an external magnetic field, in particular the relative permeability, even without explicitly placing the word "relative" in front of the word "permeability". The higher the relative permeability of a magnetic field-sensitive component, the greater the ratio of magnetic flux density in the magnetic field-sensitive component to magnetic field strength acting on the magnetic field-sensitive component.

[0090] A magnetic field-sensitive component with a high relative permeability results in a comparatively high magnetic flux density within the magnetic field-sensitive component, even at low magnetic field strengths. Thus, a high relative permeability of the magnetic field-sensitive component increases the sensitivity of the sensor and helps the sensor detect even small differential currents.

[0091] It is preferably proposed that the magnetic field-sensitive component has a relative permeability that is greater than or equal to 35,000, preferably the magnetic field-sensitive component has a relative permeability of greater than or equal to 45,000, particularly preferably the magnetic field-sensitive component has a relative permeability of greater than or equal to 50,000. Further preferably, the magnetic field-sensitive component has a relative permeability of greater than or equal to 60,000, preferably the magnetic field-sensitive component has a relative permeability of greater than or equal to 70,000, particularly preferably the magnetic field-sensitive component has a relative permeability of greater than or equal to 80,000. Likewise further preferably, the magnetic field-sensitive component has a relative permeability of greater than or equal to 90,000, preferably the magnetic field-sensitive component has a relative permeability of greater than or equal to 100.000 , particularly preferably the magnetic field sensitive component has a relative permeability of greater than or equal to 110 000 . Further preferably the magnetic field sensitive component has a relative permeability of greater than or equal to 120 000 , preferably the magnetic field sensitive component has a relative permeability of greater than or equal to 130 000 , particularly preferably the magnetic field sensitive component has a relative permeability of greater than or equal to 140 000 . Preferably the relative permeability of the magnetic field sensitive component is greater than or equal to 150 000 .

[0092] The above mentioned values ​​for the relative permeability apply to a magnetic field oscillating at 50 Hz.

[0093] It should be expressly noted that the above values ​​for the relative permeability of the magnetic-field-sensitive component are not intended to be understood as sharp limits, but rather should be capable of being exceeded or undercut on an engineering scale without departing from the described aspect of the invention. In simple terms, the values ​​are intended to provide an indication of the magnitude of the relative permeability of the magnetic-field-sensitive component proposed here.

[0094] Preferably, the magnetic field-sensitive component has a magnetic saturation flux density that is greater than or equal to 1 T. Preferably, the magnetic field-sensitive component has a magnetic saturation flux density of greater than or equal to 1.1 T. Particularly preferably, the magnetic field-sensitive component has a magnetic saturation flux density of greater than or equal to 1.2 T. Preferably, the magnetic field-sensitive component has a magnetic saturation flux density of greater than or equal to 1.3 T.

[0095] It should be expressly noted that the above values ​​for the magnetic saturation flux density of the magnetic-field-sensitive component are not intended to be understood as sharp limits, but rather should be capable of being exceeded or undercut on an engineering scale without departing from the described aspect of the invention. In simple terms, the values ​​are intended to provide an indication of the magnitude of the magnetic saturation flux density of the magnetic-field-sensitive component proposed here.

[0096] It is preferably proposed here that the magnetic field-sensitive component exhibit a high degree of linearity with respect to the relative permeability, in particular a higher linearity with respect to the relative permeability than a ferritic material. In other words, it is preferably proposed not to use a ferritic material for the magnetic field-sensitive component.

[0097] The higher the linearity with respect to the relative permeability of the magnetic field sensitive component, the higher the achievable measuring accuracy of the sensor.

[0098] The magnetic field-sensitive component preferably has a coercive field strength of less than or equal to 30 mA / cm, the magnetic field-sensitive component preferably has a coercive field strength of less than or equal to 20 mA / cm, and the magnetic field-sensitive component particularly preferably has a coercive field strength of less than or equal to 15 mA / cm. Furthermore preferably, the magnetic field-sensitive component has a coercive field strength of less than or equal to 10 mA / cm, the magnetic field-sensitive component preferably has a coercive field strength of less than or equal to 5 mA / cm, and the magnetic field-sensitive component particularly preferably has a coercive field strength of less than or equal to 2 mA / cm.Furthermore, the magnetic field-sensitive component preferably has a coercive field strength of less than or equal to 1 mA / cm. The magnetic field-sensitive component preferably has a coercive field strength of less than or equal to 0.5 mA / cm. The magnetic field-sensitive component particularly preferably has a coercive field strength of less than or equal to 0.2 mA / cm. The magnetic field-sensitive component preferably has a coercive field strength of less than or equal to 0.1 mA / cm. The above-mentioned values ​​for the coercive field strength apply to a magnetic field oscillating at 50 Hz.

[0099] A low coercive field strength of the magnetically sensitive component allows for particularly high measurement accuracy, particularly in the presence of varying magnetic field strengths. The lower the coercive field strength of the magnetically sensitive component, the higher the measurement accuracy of the sensor.

[0100] It should be expressly noted that the above values ​​for the coercive field strength of the magnetic-field-sensitive component are not intended to be understood as sharp limits, but rather should be capable of being exceeded or undercut on an engineering scale without departing from the described aspect of the invention. In simple terms, the values ​​are intended to provide an indication of the magnitude of the coercive field strength of the magnetic-field-sensitive component proposed here.

[0101] It is preferably proposed to select or manufacture the magnetic field sensitive component from a soft magnetic material.

[0102] The magnetic field-sensitive component preferably consists of an alloy which has greater than or equal to 70 wt.% iron, preferably greater than or equal to 71.5 wt.% iron, and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 73 wt.% iron. The magnetic field-sensitive component preferably consists of an alloy which has greater than or equal to 73.5 wt.% iron.

[0103] Preferably, the magnetic field sensitive component consists of an alloy which contains copper in a range of 0.75 to 1.25 wt.%, preferably copper in a range of 0.85 to 1.15 wt.%, particularly preferably copper in a range of 0.95 to 1.05 wt.%. Preferably, the alloy of the magnetic field sensitive component contains copper in a proportion of

[0104] 1 wt.%.

[0105] The magnetic-field-sensitive component preferably consists of an alloy containing niobium in a range of 2 to 4 wt.%, preferably niobium in a range of 2.5 to 3.5 wt.%, particularly preferably niobium in a range of 2.8 to 3.2 wt.%. The alloy of the magnetic-field-sensitive component preferably contains niobium in a proportion of 3 wt.%.

[0106] The magnetic-field-sensitive component preferably consists of an alloy containing boron in a range of 5 to 9 wt.%, preferably boron in a range of 6 to 8 wt.%, particularly preferably boron in a range of 6.5 to 7.5 wt.%. The alloy of the magnetic-field-sensitive component preferably contains boron in a proportion of 7 wt.%.

[0107] Preferably, the magnetic field sensitive component consists of an alloy which has silicon in a range of 14 to 17 wt.%, preferably silicon in a range of 15 to 16 wt.%, particularly preferably silicon in a range of

[0108] 15.4 to 15.6 wt.%. Preferably, the alloy of the magnetic field sensitive component contains silicon in a proportion of

[0109] 15.5 wt.% on .

[0110] It should be expressly noted that the above values ​​for the alloy composition of the magnetic field-sensitive component are not intended to be understood as sharp limits, but rather should be able to be exceeded or undercut on an engineering scale without departing from the described aspect of the invention. In simple terms, the values ​​are intended to provide an indication of the size of the alloy composition of the magnetic field-sensitive component proposed here.

[0111] supply component.

[0112] Preferably, the magnetic field sensitive component consists of a nanocrystalline soft magnetic material with a typical grain size in the range of 5 to 30 nm, preferably of a nanocrystalline soft magnetic material with a typical grain size in the range of 7 to 20 nm, particularly preferably of a nanocrystalline soft magnetic material with a typical grain size in the range of 8 to 15 nm.

[0113] Preferably, the magnetic field sensitive component is made from a strip with a particularly small strip thickness, since in this way the eddy current losses in the magnetically sensitive component can be kept low according to the Maxwell equations.

[0114] Preferably, the magnetic field-sensitive component has a strip thickness in a range between 5 and 50 pm. Preferably, the strip thickness of the magnetic field-sensitive component is in a range between 7.5 and 40 pm, and particularly preferably in a range between 10 and 30 pm.

[0115] It should be expressly noted that the above values ​​for the strip thickness of the magnetic-field-sensitive component are not intended to be understood as strict limits, but rather should be capable of being exceeded or undercut on an engineering scale without departing from the described aspect of the invention. In simple terms, the values ​​are intended to provide an indication of the size of the strip thickness of the magnetic-field-sensitive component proposed here.

[0116] According to a preferred embodiment, the iron cross-section of the magnetic field sensitive component is at least 0.01 cm 2. Preferably, the iron cross-section of the magnetic field sensitive component is in a range between 0.03 and 0.15 cm 2 . Furthermore, the iron cross-section of the magnetic field-sensitive component is preferably in a range between 0.04 and 0.12 cm 2 . Particularly preferably, the iron cross-section of the magnetic field-sensitive component is in a range between 0.05 and 0.1 cm 2 .

[0117] According to a preferred embodiment, the height of the magnetic field-sensitive component is at least 1 mm, in particular at least 1.5 mm. Preferably, the magnetic field-sensitive component has a height between 3 and 7 mm, preferably, the magnetic field-sensitive component has a height between 3.4 and 6.6 mm, particularly preferably, the magnetic field-sensitive component has a height between 3.8 and 6.2 mm.

[0118] It should be expressly noted that the above values ​​for the iron cross-section and the height of the magnetic-field-sensitive component are not intended to be understood as strict limits, but rather should be capable of being exceeded or undercut on an engineering scale without departing from the described aspect of the invention. In simple terms, the values ​​are intended to provide an indication of the size of the iron cross-section and the height of the magnetic-field-sensitive component proposed here.

[0119] It is preferably proposed that the sensor determines the di f ference current according to the operating principle of a Förster probe.

[0120] The number of windings of the first main winding is preferably distributed equidistantly over the entire circumference of the magnetic field-sensitive component. The first main winding preferably has a number of turns of at least 10 windings, in particular at least 25 windings, preferably at least 35 windings, particularly preferably at least 40 windings and further particularly preferably at least 45 windings. More preferably, the number of turns of the first main winding can be at least 50 windings, in particular at least 60 windings. Advantageously, the first main winding can have a number of turns of at least 150 windings, in particular at most 135 windings, preferably at most 130 windings, particularly preferably 125 windings. More preferably, the first main winding has a number of turns of at most 120 windings, particularly preferably a number of turns of at most 110 windings.

[0121] Advantageously, with the number of turns of the first main winding proposed here, it can be achieved that the magnetic field sensitive component can be wound with the most equidistant distance between the individual windings possible, so that when the first main winding is energized, a magnetic flux density that is as locally homogeneous as possible is established in the magnetic field sensitive component.

[0122] It should be expressly noted that the above values ​​for the number of turns of the first main winding are not intended to be understood as strict limits, but rather should be capable of being exceeded or undercut on an engineering scale without departing from the described aspect of the invention. In simple terms, the values ​​are intended to provide an indication of the size of the number of turns of the first main winding proposed here.

[0123] Preferably, the number of turns of the test windings is distributed equidistantly over the entire circumference of the magnetic field-sensitive component. Preferably, the test winding has a number of turns in a range between 3 and 40 turns, preferably a number of turns in a range between 4 and 35 turns, particularly preferably a number of turns in a range between 5 and 30 turns. Furthermore, the test winding preferably has a number of turns in a range between 6 and 25 turns, preferably a number of turns in a range between 8 and 22 turns, particularly preferably a number of turns in a range from 10 to 18 turns.

[0124] Advantageously, with the number of turns of the test winding proposed here, it can be achieved that the magnetic flux density in the magnetic field-sensitive component can be determined particularly accurately via the induction effect which it causes in the test winding, in particular because the test winding can be distributed homogeneously over the magnetic field-sensitive component with equidistant distances between adjacent turns.

[0125] It should be expressly noted that the above values ​​for the number of turns of the test winding are not intended to be understood as strict limits, but rather should be capable of being exceeded or undercut on an engineering scale without departing from the described aspect of the invention. In simple terms, the values ​​are intended to provide an indication of the size of the number of turns of the test winding proposed here.

[0126] According to a preferred embodiment, the magnetically sensitive component is encased in an insulator, the insulator being arranged between the magnetically sensitive component and the first main winding and between the magnetically sensitive component and the test winding. The following definition is used:

[0127] An "insulator" is a component made of a material whose electrical conductivity is particularly low, so that it conducts only very slightly an electric current compared to the materials surrounding it.

[0128] Preferably, an insulator is formed in two parts so that it can be opened to accommodate the magnetic field sensitive component and then closed again.

[0129] Preferably, a two-part insulator has a positive connection and / or a frictional connection between the two parts of the insulator, so that it can advantageously securely enclose the magnetic field-sensitive component and does not open unintentionally and / or release the magnetic field-sensitive component again.

[0130] Preferably, the insulator has a lower hardness than the material of the winding, whereby any friction between the insulator and a winding advantageously damages the insulator rather than the winding.

[0131] The insulator can advantageously ensure that the magnetic field-sensitive component is regionally separated from the first main winding and the test winding and, if applicable, the second main winding, whereby any damage to the windings that may occur can be reduced.

[0132] If the insulator has a lower hardness and / or a lower modulus of elasticity than the material of the windings of the first main winding and test winding and, if applicable, the second main winding, the windings can be laid with a pre-tensioning force in such a way that they cause an elastic deformation of the insulator and thus a positive connection between the insulator and the winding, so that the windings achieve better positional stability relative to one another, which can advantageously increase the reliability of the sensor.

[0133] Furthermore, the insulator allows for a consistently constant distance between the windings and the magnetic-field-sensitive component. This advantageously ensures that the physical connection between the windings and the magnetic-field-sensitive component remains constant. This advantageously allows the precision of the sensor signal determination to be maintained permanently.

[0134] Preferably, the sensor has a second main winding, wherein the second main winding encloses the magnetically sensitive component and / or the insulator with a plurality of turns.

[0135] The following term is explained in this regard:

[0136] A "second main winding" is understood to mean a main winding that is wound around a magnetic field-sensitive component in addition to a first main winding.

[0137] Preferably, the second main winding has a winding direction that differs from the winding direction of the first main winding.

[0138] During the designated operation of a sensor according to the first aspect of the invention, having a first main winding and no second main winding, the first main winding is supplied with an alternating voltage, so that the current flow in the first main winding also reverses its sign with each change in the sign of the supply voltage. Alternatively, the first main winding is supplied with a current source that alternately reverses the current direction. By using a current source, a higher measurement accuracy of the sensor can advantageously be achieved.

[0139] In other words, the first main winding has cyclically different current flow directions during the designated operation of the sensor.

[0140] The temporal course of the current flow during designated sensor operation in the first main winding can be sinusoidal or rectangular or have another oscillation form.

[0141] The periodic or oscillating current flow in the first main winding is designed to induce a likewise oscillating magnetic flux density in the magnetic field sensitive component .

[0142] The sensor proposed here has two main windings, a first and a second main winding.

[0143] Preferably, the number of windings of the second main winding is equal to the number of windings of the first main winding.

[0144] This makes it possible for a single main winding to operate the sensor in the designated manner without requiring a change in the direction of current flow. Instead, the two main windings can each be operated in a pulsed manner, alternating between current flow and no current flow.

[0145] If the two main windings are wound around the magnetic-field-sensitive component in different directions of rotation, an alternating magnetic flux density can be induced in the magnetic-field-sensitive component by alternately connecting the two main windings to the same voltage or current source, whereby the voltage or current source can have a constant, steady output value. This advantageously enables a more cost-effective design of the operating circuit for the designated sensor operation. Even if an additional main winding is required, this can still reduce the combined costs of the sensor and operating circuit.

[0146] Preferably, the number of windings of the second main winding is distributed equidistantly over the entire circumference of the magnetic field sensitive component.

[0147] The second main winding preferably has a number of turns of at least 10 windings, in particular at least 25 windings, preferably at least 35 windings, particularly preferably at least 40 windings and further particularly preferably at least 45 windings. More preferably, the number of turns of the first main winding can be at least 50 windings, in particular at least 60 windings. Advantageously, the first main winding can have a number of turns of at least 150 windings, in particular at most 135 windings, preferably at most 130 windings, particularly preferably 125 windings. More preferably, the first main winding has a number of turns of at most 120 windings, particularly preferably a number of turns of at most 110 windings.

[0148] Advantageously, with the number of turns of the second main winding proposed here, it can be achieved that the magnetic field sensitive component can be wound with the most equidistant distance between the individual windings possible, so that when the second main winding is energized, a magnetic flux density that is as locally homogeneous as possible is established in the magnetic field sensitive component.

[0149] It should be expressly noted that the above values ​​for the number of turns of the second main winding are not intended to be understood as strict limits, but rather should be capable of being exceeded or undercut on an engineering scale without departing from the described aspect of the invention. In simple terms, the values ​​are intended to provide an indication of the size of the number of turns of the second main winding proposed here.

[0150] According to a particularly expedient embodiment, the sensor has a spacer ring, wherein the spacer ring is arranged between the inner shielding wall and the first main winding.

[0151] The following term is explained in this regard:

[0152] A "spacer ring" is understood to be an annular component which is designed to be arranged between the inner shielding wall and the first main winding of the sensor.

[0153] Preferably, a spacer ring is designed to reduce or fill the radial gap in the receiving space between the inner shielding wall and the main winding.

[0154] Preferably, a spacer ring is configured to fill the axial gap between a first shielding part and a second shielding part, so that the spacer ring can define the width of the circumferential gap as soon as the two shielding parts are each arranged adjacent to the spacer ring. Preferably, the spacer ring is made of plastic or another material with a comparatively low specific conductivity.

[0155] The spacer ring can also advantageously protect the wires of the main winding and / or the test winding during sensor assembly. Thus, the spacer ring, together with the magnetic field-sensitive component already wrapped with the main winding or the main windings and the test winding, can be inserted into a first part of the shield, in particular the part of the shield whose outer surface is preferably at least partially overlapped by another part of the shield.In this way, the magnetic field-sensitive component can be carefully inserted into the first part of the shielding under visual control, the magnetic field-sensitive component being protected from mechanical stress on its inside by the spacer ring, in particular the windings arranged around the magnetic field-sensitive component are protected from mechanical stress by the spacer ring on the inside. The second part of the shielding can then be plugged on in such a way that the windings are already protected from mechanical stress by the spacer ring and the overlapped first part of the shielding. In this respect, even if the particularly sensitive components cannot be visually accessed during assembly of the second part of the shielding, the mechanical protection of the sensitive components can be advantageously improved by the spacer ring.

[0156] Preferably, a spacer ring is proposed which has, within its base material, an insert made of a material with a comparatively high relative permeability, in particular a relative permeability that essentially corresponds to the relative permeability of the shield. This insert is preferably completely enclosed by the base material of the spacer ring so that it is insulated by the base material with the comparatively low electrical conductivity.

[0157] This can advantageously achieve that the leakage at the circumferential gap of the magnetic field emanating from the magnetic field sensitive component during the designated operation of the sensor can be reduced as a result of the higher relative permeability of the spacer ring, whereby the measuring accuracy of the sensor can be advantageously increased and the energy consumption of the sensor can also be reduced.

[0158] Optionally, the shield has a coating, in particular an electrically insulating coating.

[0159] The following term is explained in this regard:

[0160] A "coating" is understood to mean a firmly adhering layer of a formless material on the surface of the shield.

[0161] Preferably, a coating is designed to be particularly poorly conductive to electrical current. Thus, a coating preferably has particularly low electrical conductivity.

[0162] Preferably, a coating consists of an epoxy resin.

[0163] Preferably, the coating is applied to the shielding in such a way that it covers at least that portion of the outer shielding surface that is intended to be located near a printed circuit board. This advantageously insulates the shielding from a designated printed circuit board, so that a short circuit between the shielding and the designated printed circuit board can be advantageously prevented.

[0164] According to an expedient embodiment, the shield has a material thickness in a range between 0.25 mm and 0.55 mm, preferably in a range between 0.3 mm and 0.45 mm and particularly preferably in a range between 0.32 mm and 0.38 mm.

[0165] The following term is explained in this regard:

[0166] A “material thickness” or material strength is understood to mean the extension of a body in the direction of its surface normal.

[0167] An "eddy current" is a current that is induced in an extended electrical conductor in a temporally changing magnetic field and / or in a moving conductor in a temporally constant, but spatially inhomogeneous magnetic field. If the conductor has a finite electrical resistance, it heats up as a result of the eddy current. This amount of energy converted into heat is referred to as "eddy current loss."

[0168] Here, it is proposed to reduce the material thickness of a shield of a magnetic field sensitive component together with the at least one main winding and the test winding around the magnetic field sensitive component.

[0169] The possibility of reducing the material thickness in the shielding area is based on an innovation in the field of

[0170] Manufacturing the shield. The shield is preferably deep-drawn or injection-molded.

[0171] This can advantageously result in cost savings compared to a thicker shielding material.

[0172] During the sensor's intended operation, the magnetic-field-sensitive component exhibits an oscillating magnetic flux density. Since the shielding is also made of a material with good electrical conductivity, it experiences an induction effect due to the change in the magnetic flux density of the magnetic-field-sensitive component. This induction effect can cause eddy current losses in the shielding, which can lead to a reduction in external magnetic fields and thus increase the sensor's measurement accuracy.

[0173] By varying the material thickness of the shielding, the eddy current losses occurring during the designated operation of the sensor can be advantageously adapted to the operating conditions.

[0174] This can advantageously reduce the energy consumption of the sensor and increase the measuring accuracy of the sensor.

[0175] It should be expressly noted that the above values ​​for the shielding material thickness are not intended to be understood as strict limits, but rather should be capable of being exceeded or undercut on an engineering scale without departing from the described aspect of the invention. In simple terms, the values ​​are intended to provide an indication of the size of the shielding material thickness proposed here.

[0176] The circumferential gap preferably has a gap width in a range between 0.1 mm and 2.0 mm, preferably in a range between 0.3 mm and 1.7 mm and particularly preferably in a range between 0.6 mm and 1.3 mm.

[0177] The following term is explained in this regard:

[0178] A "gap width" is understood to mean the width of a gap. Preferably, the width of the gap is understood to be the width of the circumferential gap on the inner shielding wall of the shield.

[0179] A circumferential gap in the shielding is particularly advantageous because the shielding would otherwise also represent a winding of a highly electrically conductive material around the magnetic field-sensitive component, which would experience a stronger induction effect during the sensor's designated operation, in which the magnetic flux density in the magnetic field-sensitive component oscillates. This would increase the eddy current losses associated with the shielding, which could lead to higher energy consumption of the sensor and reduced measurement accuracy.

[0180] However, a circumferential gap in the shielding of the sensor subsequently also leads to a depression in the magnetic field around the magnetic field-sensitive component, in particular since the relative permeability of air in the circumferential gap is significantly lower than the relative permeability of the shielding.

[0181] Thus, an excessively large width of the circumferential gap leads to different physical effects, which also have a negative impact on the energy consumption of the sensor and the measuring accuracy of the sensor.

[0182] Here, a specific range for the gap width of the circumferential gap is proposed, whereby an optimum between the optimal sensitive measuring accuracy of the sensor associated with a width of the circumferential gap that is too small and the optimal sensitive measuring accuracy associated with a width of the circumferential gap that is too large on the basis of different physical effects can be achieved.

[0183] Furthermore, the width of the circumferential gap proposed here can advantageously minimize the energy requirement for operating the sensor.

[0184] It should be expressly noted that the above values ​​for the gap width of the circumferential gap are not intended to be understood as strict limits, but rather should be capable of being exceeded or undercut on an engineering scale without departing from the described aspect of the invention. In simple terms, the values ​​are intended to provide an indication of the size of the gap width of the circumferential gap proposed here.

[0185] According to an expedient embodiment, the sensor comprises an electrical connector, wherein the electrical connector comprises a support plate, a connector neck and a plurality of electrical contacts, wherein the electrical connector comprises two electrical contacts at least for each winding, wherein the electrical contacts are arranged radially outside the shielding outer wall, wherein the support plate is arranged between the shielding outer wall and the first main winding, wherein the connector neck extends through an opening in the shielding outer wall and connects the support plate and the electrical contacts to one another, wherein the support plate and the connector neck each comprise a corresponding recess, wherein the recess is configured toto receive the two electrical wires operatively connected to each winding from the receiving space and to guide them from the receiving space through the opening in the outer shielding wall to the electrical contacts, wherein the recess has a notch in a direction parallel to the outer shielding wall through which the electrical wires can be inserted into a central region of the recess.

[0186] The following term is explained in this regard:

[0187] An "electrical connector" is understood to mean a component which is designed to be attached to the sensor and has at least the required number of accessible electrical contacts.

[0188] Preferably, the connector enables the electrical and / or electronic components of the sensor to be electrically connected to the electrical contacts of the connector, wherein the electrical contacts of the connector have comparatively good accessibility.

[0189] Preferably, the connector at least indirectly enables the electrical contacts to be arranged in a fixed position relative to the sensor.

[0190] Overall, the connector thus preferably and advantageously enables the sensor to be used with a fixed relative arrangement between the magnetic field-sensitive component and the electrical contacts, wherein the electronic and / or electrical components of the sensor can already be electrically connected to the electrical contacts during manufacture of the sensor. The sensor can therefore advantageously be connected to a circuit board directly by soldering or indirectly via another contact element, in particular a plug, by means of the electrical contacts of the electrical connector, in particular in such a way that the relative position of the magnetic field-sensitive component to a circuit board can be fixed by the connection made possible at least indirectly by the electrical connector.

[0191] Preferably, the electrical connector comprises a plastic as base material, in particular a plastic with a comparatively low electrical conductivity.

[0192] Preferably, the electrical contacts of the electrical connector are at least partially enclosed by the base material of the connector, so that a force-fitting and / or form-fitting connection exists between the base material and the electrical contacts. Furthermore, the electrical contacts are preferably arranged spatially separated from one another by the base material of the electrical connector, which advantageously ensures that there is no direct electrical contact between two electrical contacts, so that a short circuit between the individual electrical and / or electronic components of the sensor can be prevented.

[0193] A "support plate" is understood to mean a region of the electrical connector which is designed for the form-fitting and / or force-fitting, at least indirect, connection between the magnetic field-sensitive component and the electrical connector.

[0194] Preferably, the support plate can be received within the receiving space of the shield, in particular between the shield and the main winding, preferably between the main winding and the shield outer wall of the shield.

[0195] Preferably, the support plate is designed to be incorporated into the shielding together with the magnetic-field-sensitive component and the windings surrounding the magnetic-field-sensitive component. This advantageously allows the support plate to provide additional protection for the windings against mechanical stress during installation in the shielding.

[0196] A "connector neck" is understood to be a region of the electrical connector that is designed to connect the support plate and the electrical contacts to each other.

[0197] An "electrical contact" is understood to be a component of the electrical connector which is designed to make contact between the electrical and / or electronic components of the sensor.

[0198] Preferably, an electrical contact is designed such that it protrudes from the base material of the electrical connector in two directions. In this case, it is particularly conceivable that contact can be made between the electrical and / or electronic components of the sensor and the electrical contact at a protruding end of the electrical contact. Furthermore, it is conceivable that contact can be made with an operating circuit for the sensor at a different protruding end of the electrical contact, in particular by means of soldering or by means of a plug-in connector corresponding to the electrical contact or to a plurality of electrical contacts.

[0199] Preferably, an electrical contact consists of an alloy which has nickel in a range between 17 and 19 wt.%, preferably nickel in a range between 17.5 and 18.5 wt.% and particularly preferably 18 wt.% nickel.

[0200] Preferably, an electrical contact consists of an alloy which contains zinc in a range between 18 and 22 wt.%, preferably zinc in a range between 19 and 21

[0201] wt.% and particularly preferably 20 wt.% zinc.

[0202] An electrical contact preferably consists of an alloy containing greater than or equal to 58% copper by weight, preferably greater than or equal to 60% copper by weight, and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 61% copper by weight. Furthermore, an electrical contact preferably consists of an alloy containing greater than or equal to 62% copper by weight, further preferably greater than or equal to 63% copper by weight, and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 64% copper by weight.

[0203] The alloy composition for the electrical contacts described above advantageously enables very good electrical conductivity with a comparatively high modulus of elasticity and very good dip-tinning and soldering properties.

[0204] It should be expressly noted that the above values ​​for the alloy composition of an electrical contact are not intended to be understood as strict limits, but rather are intended to allow for the possibility of exceeding or falling below these values ​​on an engineering scale without departing from the described aspect of the invention. In simple terms, the values ​​are intended to provide an indication of the magnitude of the alloy composition of an electrical contact proposed here. Preferably, an electrical contact has a gold coating, which can advantageously improve the electrical conductivity of the electrical contact.

[0205] An "opening" is understood to mean an area in the shielding through which the connector neck of the electrical connector, which connects the support plate and the electrical contacts to one another, can extend from the receiving space within the shielding into an area outside the shielding, so that the electrical contacts of the electrical connector can be arranged outside the shielding. For this purpose, the shielding preferably has an opening corresponding to the connector neck.

[0206] In the case of a two-part shield, it should be remembered that one or both parts of the shield have a recess which forms the opening after the shielding parts are joined.

[0207] Preferably, the opening is located in the area of

[0208] Shielding outer wall .

[0209] A "recess" is understood to be an area in the cross-section of a component which is not formed by the base material of the component and can therefore be penetrated by other bodies without damaging the component.

[0210] Preferably, a recess is a channel through which

[0211] Base material of the component.

[0212] Furthermore, a recess in the form of a depression is preferably formed in the base material of the component, so that another body can be inserted into the recess through the opening of the depression. A "corresponding recess" in the connector neck and the support plate is understood to mean that the recess extends with a substantially constant course in the main extension direction of the recess through both the support plate and the connector neck.

[0213] An "electrical wire" is understood to be a metal that is thin and flexible compared to its longitudinal extent. An electrical wire preferably has a circular cross-section. An electrical wire preferably has a plurality of strands. A wire preferably has a high copper content.

[0214] A "notch" is a tapered or wedge-shaped incision.

[0215] Sensors according to the first aspect of the invention comprise a plurality of electrical and / or electronic components. During the designated operation of the sensor, currents arise in the electronic and / or electrical components or are actively fed into the components.

[0216] These electrical and / or electronic components of the sensor are designed to be located in the receiving space of the shield and must be electrically contacted from outside the shield.

[0217] The simplest form of electrical contact is based on electrical wires that are connected to the electrical and / or electronic components being led through the shielding to the outside and soldered to a circuit board that contains the operating circuit for the sensor. With this solution, there are a number of different sources of damage to the electrical wires and therefore to the sensor as a whole, which can lead to sensor failure. On the one hand, the electrical wires, which usually have only a very small conductor cross-section, can easily be destroyed due to mechanical stress, in particular shear stress in the area of ​​the shielding or tensile stress between the windings and the connection of the electrical wires to the circuit board.Such tensile loads can occur during assembly of the sensor or during operation of the sensor if there is relative movement between the magnetic field sensitive component and the contact between the electrical wires and the circuit board.

[0218] Here, it is proposed to make the electrical wires of the sensor connectable both mechanically and electrically by means of an electrical connector, thus advantageously increasing the robustness and availability of the sensor.

[0219] The electrical connector proposed here has a support plate arranged inside the receiving space of the shield. Extending from the support plate is the connector neck, forming a second region of the electrical connector. The connector neck extends, in particular, through the shield, particularly in the region of the outer shield wall. Adjoining the connector neck are a plurality of electrical contacts configured for electrical contact with the electrical and / or electronic components of the sensor.

[0220] The support plate enables a force-fitting and / or form-fitting connection of the electrical connector to the sensor, in particular to the sensor's shielding. The connector neck is designed to accommodate the electrical wires and thus protect them from mechanical stress, particularly in the area of ​​the shielding. For this purpose, the connector neck and the support plate have a corresponding recess into which the electrical wires can be inserted and which protects the electrical wires from external mechanical stress.

[0221] Furthermore, the connector neck determines the relative position between the magnetic field-sensitive component of the sensor and the electrical contacts designed for electrical contact. The electrical wires can be routed through the corresponding recess in the connector neck and the support plate to the electrical contacts, where they can be connected to the electrical contacts for contacting.

[0222] The corresponding recess in the connector neck and the support plate is shaped like a trough that is open in a direction transverse to the longitudinal extension direction of the corresponding recess, so that the electrical wires can be inserted into the recess both longitudinally and transversely to the longitudinal direction. This design offers advantages during sensor assembly, as the wires can be inserted into the recess both gradually, individually or in bundles, both longitudinally and transversely to the longitudinal direction, thereby significantly facilitating the routing of the electrical wires into the recess.

[0223] The corresponding recess in the connector neck and the support plate has a notch which extends transversely to the longitudinal axis of the corresponding recess and with the tip of the notch pointing in the direction of the recess. The notch makes it possible to insert electrical wires individually or in bundles transversely into the recess in a simple manner, whereby the notch must be passed through the narrow point of the notch by each individual electrical wire. The narrow point of the notch is designed so that once an electrical wire has been inserted into the recess, it can only leave the recess again transversely to the longitudinal direction of the recess with considerable effort and thus remains designated in the protective area of ​​the recess.This simplifies the sequential assembly of the electrical wires and ensures that an electrical wire is protected from mechanical stress on all sides after it has been inserted into the recess.

[0224] According to a second aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a sensor arrangement for determining an electrical differential current, in particular for determining a differential current sensitive to all currents, with a sensor as described above, and

[0225] - an operating circuit for operating the sensor, which is designed and suitable for applying a periodic current or a periodic voltage with a frequency of at least 9 kHz to the first main winding and / or a second main winding of the sensor.

[0226] The following term is explained in this regard:

[0227] An "operating circuit" is understood to mean a circuit for the active or passive operation of the sensor. An operating circuit is preferably configured to supply the first main winding and / or a second main winding of a sensor with a voltage or with a current. Furthermore, an operating circuit is preferably configured to tap the voltage at the test winding of the sensor and to transmit it as a signal to a data acquisition and evaluation unit.

[0228] Likewise, the operating circuit is preferably designed to tap the voltage at the first main winding and / or the second main winding of the sensor and to transmit it as a signal to a data acquisition and evaluation unit.

[0229] Preferably, the operating circuit may comprise a current consumption measuring device which is designed to evaluate the current consumption of the test winding and / or the first main winding and / or a second main winding.

[0230] In a specific embodiment, the operating circuit can be connected to the sensor via the electrical connector.

[0231] The operating circuit may comprise or be connected to a current source or a voltage source, wherein the current source or the voltage source is suitable for supplying the first main winding and / or a second main winding with a periodic current or with a periodic voltage, in particular with a frequency of at least 9 kHz.

[0232] It is understood that the advantages of a sensor for determining an electrical differential current according to the first aspect of the invention as described above extend directly to a sensor arrangement according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0233] According to a third aspect, the object underlying the invention is achieved by a circuit breaker for interrupting an electrical circuit in the event of differential currents in the circuit which exceed a limit value, comprising a sensor arrangement as described above, an electronic data processing and evaluation unit and a switching device,

[0234] - wherein the sensor is arranged around at least two electrical conductors which form the circuit or are part of the circuit,

[0235] - the switching device for interrupting the

[0236] circuit is set up,

[0237] - wherein the electronic data processing and evaluation unit is set up to evaluate sensor signals from the sensor,

[0238] - wherein the electronic data processing and evaluation unit is designed to control the switching device in such a way that the switching device interrupts the circuit when an electrical differential current is detected, in particular when a differential current is detected that is sensitive to all currents, with a current intensity above the limit value, in particular an adjustable limit value.

[0239] The following term is explained in this regard:

[0240] A "circuit breaker" is understood to mean a device which, when a defined differential current is exceeded, in particular when an adjustable differential current is exceeded, is set up to switch off the voltage of the monitored circuit by the circuit breaker. In this way, the risk of differential currents to people and infrastructure can be advantageously reduced.

[0241] An "electronic data processing and evaluation unit" is an electronic unit that handles data volumes in an organized manner with the aim of obtaining information about these data volumes or of changing these data volumes. The data can be recorded in data records, processed by humans or machines according to a predetermined procedure, and output as a result.

[0242] “Data” refers in particular to measured values, especially sensor signals, or other values ​​of physical or chemical measured variables or quantities.

[0243] A "switching device" is understood to mean a device which is designed to switch off the voltage supply for an electrical circuit, in particular the electrical circuit monitored by the circuit breaker.

[0244] A "circuit" is an electrical circuit consisting of a system of conductors that represents a closed path.

[0245] A “sensor signal” is understood to be a state variable provided by the sensor. In particular, a sensor signal is designed so that a differential current in the circuit monitored by the sensor can be inferred from the sensor signal by means of a physical and / or chemical dependency. The differential current in the circuit monitored by the sensor can preferably be calculated directly from the sensor signal. The sensor signal is preferably a determinable current intensity and / or a determinable voltage. The “current intensity” is understood to be the electrical current intensity which, in the form of a physical variable, measures the electrical current, in particular the electrical current in an electrical circuit. The current intensity relates to a suitably oriented area, preferably the cross-sectional area of ​​an electrical conductor.In this case, the current intensity is the amount of charge flowing through the cross-section and related to the time period considered.

[0246] Preferably, a sensor signal is understood to be the current consumption of the first main winding, which can be converted into a differential current by means of a mathematical rule.

[0247] A "limit value" is understood to be a defined value of a state variable, in particular the differential current, above which the switching device must, at the latest, switch off the voltage supply of the circuit monitored by the circuit breaker. Preferably, the limit value of the circuit breaker can be adjustable.

[0248] What is specifically proposed here is a circuit breaker which uses a sensor according to the first aspect of the invention to monitor the circuit.

[0249] It is understood that the advantages of a sensor for determining an electrical di f ference current according to the first aspect of the invention and of a sensor arrangement according to the second aspect of the invention as described above extend directly to a circuit breaker comprising a circuit breaker according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0250] In particular, this advantageously allows for a circuit breaker with a higher sensitivity to differential currents, so that the circuit breaker can interrupt the circuit even at very low differential currents in the monitored circuit. Furthermore, it is advantageous at the same time that the circuit breaker has a particularly low probability of incorrectly detecting a differential current that supposedly exceeds a limit current when switching on a monitored circuit.

[0251] It should be expressly pointed out that the subject matter of the third aspect can be advantageously combined with the subject matters of the preceding aspects of the invention, both individually or cumulatively in any desired combination.

[0252] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a method for operating a sensor according to the first aspect, a sensor arrangement according to the second aspect or a circuit breaker according to the third aspect of the invention, wherein the first main winding and / or a second main winding of the sensor is periodically subjected to a voltage and / or a current, the frequency of the voltage or current application being at least 9 kHz.

[0253] The frequency of the application of current or voltage can be at least 10 kHz, in particular at least 11 kHz, preferably at least 12 kHz and particularly preferably at least 14 kHz, and / or at most 20 kHz, in particular at most 18 kHz, preferably at most 16 kHz, particularly preferably at most 15 kHz.

[0254] In a further embodiment, the first main winding and / or a second main winding can be supplied with a periodically changing voltage or a periodically changing current. This means that the sign of the voltage or the current direction is reversed during a period and zero crossings occur in each period. In particular, the mean value of the current or voltage applied over time can be zero. One can also speak of an alternating voltage or an alternating current. In a preferred embodiment, the voltage or current waveform can be sinusoidal.

[0255] Alternatively, the first main winding and / or a second main winding can be supplied with a pulsed voltage.

[0256] Such pulsed voltages or currents often have a rectangular profile and lie either in the positive or negative range of the voltage or current values, i.e., there is no zero crossing. In other words, the current or voltage curve fluctuates between a zero value and a maximum value.

[0257] Particularly preferably, in a sensor with only one main winding, this main winding can be subjected to a periodically changing voltage or a periodically changing current.

[0258] If the sensor has a first main winding and a second main winding, the two main windings can each be operated in a pulsed manner so that they alternate between having a current flow and no current flow.

[0259] If the two main windings are wound around the magnetic-field-sensitive component in different directions of rotation, an alternating magnetic flux density can be induced in the magnetic-field-sensitive component by alternately connecting the two main windings to the same voltage or current source, whereby the voltage or current source can have a constant, steady output value. This advantageously enables a more cost-effective design of the operating circuit for the designated sensor operation. Even if an additional main winding is required, this can still reduce the combined costs of the sensor and operating circuit.

[0260] The periodic current or voltage can also have a rectangular, triangular, trapezoidal, needle-shaped, or sawtooth-shaped waveform. Pulsed periodic voltages or currents that fluctuate between a zero value and a maximum value and, in particular, exhibit a rectangular profile are also possible.

[0261] According to a preferred embodiment, the first main winding and / or a second main winding can be subjected to a periodic voltage or a periodic current such that, in particular, in each half-period in the magnetic field-sensitive component, its saturation flux density is reached.

[0262] It is understood that the advantages and advantageous embodiments of a sensor according to the first aspect, a sensor arrangement according to the second aspect, and a circuit breaker according to the third aspect as described above extend directly to a method according to the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0263] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a charging cable for charging an electric vehicle, wherein the charging cable has a sensor according to the first aspect of the invention and / or a sensor arrangement according to the second aspect of the invention and / or a circuit breaker according to the third aspect of the invention.

[0264] The following term is explained in this regard:

[0265] A "charging cable" is understood to mean an electrical connection which is designed to connect an electric vehicle to a power source, wherein the charging cable is designed to charge a traction battery of the electric vehicle. Preferably, the charging cable has a monitoring device for any differential currents.

[0266] An "electric vehicle" is understood to be a vehicle that is at least partially powered by an electric motor. Preferably, an electric vehicle is not tied to a rail or at least not permanently track-bound.

[0267] Here, a charging cable for charging a battery of an electric vehicle is proposed, which has a circuit breaker according to the second aspect of the invention and / or a sensor according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0268] It is understood that the advantages of a sensor for determining an electrical differential current according to the first aspect of the invention and / or a sensor arrangement according to the second aspect of the invention and / or a protective switch for interrupting an electrical circuit in the event of differential currents in the electrical circuit which exceed a limit value according to the third aspect of the invention as described above extend directly to a charging cable for charging an electric vehicle, wherein the charging cable has a sensor according to the first aspect of the invention and / or a sensor arrangement according to the second aspect and / or a protective switch according to the third aspect of the invention.

[0269] It should be expressly pointed out that the subject matter of the fifth aspect can be advantageously combined with the subject matter of the preceding aspects of the invention, both individually or cumulatively in any combination.

[0270] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a charging station for charging electric vehicles, wherein the charging station has a sensor according to the first aspect of the invention and / or a sensor arrangement according to the second aspect of the invention and / or a circuit breaker according to the third aspect of the invention.

[0271] A "charging station" or "wall-mounted charging station" is understood to mean a charger for charging electric vehicles. In the case of a wall-mounted charging station, the charging station is particularly designed to be attached to a wall. A charging station is preferably a mobile device that can be set up at different locations. In addition to a plug connection for a charging cable for connecting the charging station to the electric vehicle and a connection to the electrical supply network, a charging station or a wall-mounted charging station preferably also provides other functions, in particular a monitoring device for any differential currents.

[0272] Here, a charging station for charging an electric vehicle is proposed, which has a circuit breaker according to the second aspect of the invention and / or a sensor according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0273] It is understood that the advantages of a sensor for determining an electrical differential current according to the first aspect of the invention and / or a sensor arrangement according to the second aspect and / or a circuit breaker for interrupting an electrical circuit in the event of differential currents in the electrical circuit which exceed a limit value according to the third aspect of the invention and / or a method according to the fourth aspect as described above extend directly to a charging station for charging electric vehicles, wherein the charging station has a sensor according to the first aspect of the invention and / or a sensor arrangement according to the second aspect of the invention and / or a circuit breaker according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0274] It should be expressly pointed out that the subject matter of the sixth aspect can be advantageously combined with the subject matters of the preceding aspects of the invention, both individually or cumulatively in any combination.

[0275] Further advantages, details and features of the invention will become apparent from the following exemplary embodiments. These show in detail:

[0276] Figure 1: schematically shows an arrangement of the sensor according to the invention in an electrical circuit;

[0277] Figure 2 : schematically shows a physical connection when the circuit is switched on;

[0278] Figure 3 : schematically shows a dynamic development of the magnetic flux density over time when the circuit is switched on at an exemplary location in the magnetic field sensitive component;

[0279] Figure 3: schematically shows a sensor according to the invention in a cross section;

[0280] Figure 4 : schematically shows an electrical connector in different views.

[0281] In the following description, identical reference symbols designate identical components or identical features, so that a description of a component made with reference to one figure also applies to the other figures, thus avoiding repetitive description. Furthermore, individual features described in connection with one embodiment can also be used separately in other embodiments.

[0282] The schematically illustrated sensor 100 in Figure 1 is arranged around the electrical conductors 110, 120 through which a designated electrical current 112, 114 flows into and out of the circuit (not shown) monitored by the sensor 100.

[0283] The electric current 112 flows via the outer conductor 110 into the circuit monitored by the sensor 100 (not shown) and flows out again via the neutral conductor 120.

[0284] The physical connection within the sensor is shown schematically in Figure 2. When a voltage supply (not shown) is switched on in an electrical circuit (not shown), the current flow in the electrical conductors 110, 120 causes magnetic fields 114, 124 to form, which influence the magnetic field-sensitive component 10. If differential currents occur in the two electrical conductors 110, 120, this leads to a physical interaction with the test winding (not shown) and / or the first main winding and / or a second main winding, whereby a sensor signal is generated, which can be interpreted as a differential current.

[0285] By applying a periodic voltage or a periodic current to the first main winding, even small differential currents in the electrical conductors 110, 120 can be reliably detected.

[0286] The sensor 100 in Figure 3 essentially consists of a magnetic field sensitive component 10, an insulator 20 surrounding the magnetic field sensitive component 10, a main winding 30, a test winding (not shown), a spacer ring 40, a shield 50, an electrical

[0287] connector 60 and a plurality of electrical contacts 70 .

[0288] The insulator 20 is formed in two parts, wherein the individual parts (not designated) of the insulator 20 are positively connected to one another.

[0289] The main winding 30 is connected by means of the electrical wire 75 to the electrical contact 70 which is carried by the electrical connector 60.

[0290] The shield 50 is formed in two parts and forms a circumferential gap 55 on the shield inner wall 58.

[0291] The sensor 100 shown in Figure 3 is designed such that the first main winding can be supplied with a periodic current or a periodic voltage with a frequency of at least 9 kHz. For this purpose, the sensor 100 can be connected to a corresponding operating circuit (not shown), by means of which the first main winding and / or a second main winding of the sensor 100 can be supplied with a periodic current or a periodic voltage with a frequency of at least 9 kHz.

[0292] The electrical connector 60 in Figure 4 essentially consists of a support plate 80, a connector neck 90 and a plurality of electrical contacts 70.

[0293] A three-dimensional view of the electrical connector 60 is shown in point b) in Figure 4.

[0294] Under lit . a ) in Figure 4, a frontal view of the electrical connector 60 is shown, wherein the frontal view, with respect to the designated sensor, is shown viewed from the outside.

[0295] A top view of the electrical connector 60 is shown under c) in Figure 4. The cutting lines A-A and BB are also shown.

[0296] Under lit. d) in Figure 4, the section AA through the electrical connector 60 is shown.

[0297] Under lit. e) in Figure 4, the section BB through the electrical connector 60 is shown.

[0298] Under letter f) in Figure 4, a frontal view of the electrical connector 60 is shown, wherein the frontal view, with respect to the designated sensor, is shown viewed from the inside.

[0299] A side view of the electrical connector 60 is shown under point g) in Figure 4.

[0300] The support plate 80 is designed to be received in the receiving space (not shown) of the shield (not shown).

[0301] The connector neck 90 connects the plurality of electrical contacts 70 to the support plate 80.

[0302] The connector neck 90 has a recess 92 designed to receive the two electrical wires (not shown) operatively connected to each winding (not shown) from the receiving space (not shown) and to guide them from the receiving space (not shown) through the opening (not shown) in the shield outer wall (not shown) to the electrical contacts (70). The recess 92 further has a notch 94 in a direction parallel to the shield outer wall (not shown), through which notch the electrical wires (not shown) can be inserted into a central region (not labeled) of the recess 92.

[0303] By means of the notch 94, it is possible to insert electrical wires (not shown) individually or in bundles in a simple manner transversely into the recess 92, wherein the notch 94 must be passed through its narrow point (not labeled) by each individual electrical wire (not shown). The narrow point (not labeled) of the notch 94 is designed so that an electrical wire (not shown), once it has been inserted into the recess 92, can only leave the recess 92 again transversely to the longitudinal direction (not labeled) of the recess 92 with considerable effort and thus remains designated in the protective area (not labeled) of the recess 92.

[0304] List of reference symbols

[0305] 10 magnetic field sensitive component

[0306] 12 clear width

[0307] 20 I insulator

[0308] 30 main winding

[0309] 40 spacer ring

[0310] 50 Shielding

[0311] 55 circumferential gap

[0312] 58 Shielding inner wall

[0313] 60 electrical connectors

[0314] 70 electrical contact

[0315] 75 electrical wire

[0316] 80 support plate

[0317] 90 connector neck

[0318] 92 recess

[0319] 94 notch

[0320] 100 sensors

[0321] 110 electrical conductor / outer conductor

[0322] 112 Direction of electric current

[0323] 114 magnetic field

[0324] 120 electrical conductor / neutral conductor

[0325] 122 Direction of electric current

[0326] 124 magnetic field

Claims

Patent claims 1. Sensor (100) for determining an electrical differential current, in particular for determining a differential current sensitive to all currents, - wherein the sensor (100) comprises a magnetic field sensitive component (10), a first main winding (30) and a test winding, - wherein the magnetic field sensitive component (10) has a has a through opening, - wherein the first main winding (30) and the test winding each have a plurality of turns and enclose the magnetic field-sensitive component (10), - wherein the sensor (100) is designed to be arranged around at least two electrical conductors (110), characterized in that the sensor (100) is designed such that the first main winding (30) can be subjected to a periodic current or a periodic voltage with a frequency of at least 9 kHz.

2. Sensor (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the magnetic field sensitive component (10) is encased in an insulator (20), wherein the insulator (20) is arranged between the magnetic field sensitive component (10) and the first main winding (30) and between the magnetic field sensitive component (10) and the test winding.

3. Sensor (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the sensor (100) has a second main winding (30), wherein the second main winding (30) encloses the magnetic field sensitive component (10) and / or the insulator (20) with a plurality of turns.

4. Sensor (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor (100) has a shield (50), wherein the shield (50) has a receiving space which is designed to receive the magnetic field-sensitive component (10), the first main winding (30) and the test winding.

5. Sensor (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving space of the shield (50) is delimited in the radial direction by a shield outer wall and a shield inner wall (58), wherein the shield inner wall (58) defines a through opening of the shield (50).

6. Sensor (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that the sensor (100) has a spacer ring (40), wherein the spacer ring (40) is arranged between the shield inner wall (58) and the first main winding (30).

7. Sensor (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shield (50) has a coating, in particular an electrically insulating coating.

8. Sensor arrangement for determining an electrical differential current, in particular for universal current sensitive determination of a differential current, with - a sensor (100) according to one of the preceding claims, and - an operating circuit for operating the sensor (100), which is designed and suitable for the first Main winding (30) and / or a second main winding (30) of the sensor (100) to be subjected to a periodic current or a periodic voltage with a frequency of at least 9 kHz.

9. A circuit breaker for interrupting a circuit in the event of differential currents in the circuit exceeding a limit value, comprising a sensor arrangement according to claim 8, an electronic data processing and evaluation unit and a switching device, - wherein the sensor (100) is arranged around at least two electrical conductors (110, 120) which form the circuit or are part of the circuit, - the switching device for interrupting the circuit is set up, - wherein the electronic data processing and evaluation unit is configured to evaluate sensor signals from the sensor (100), - wherein the electronic data processing and evaluation unit is designed to control the switching device in such a way that the switching device interrupts the circuit when an electrical differential current is detected, in particular when a differential current is detected that is sensitive to all currents, with a current intensity above the limit value, in particular an adjustable limit value.

10. A method for operating a sensor (100) according to one of claims 1 to 7, a sensor arrangement according to claim 8 or a circuit breaker according to claim 9, characterized in that the first main winding (30) and / or a second The main winding (30) of the sensor (100) is subjected to a periodic voltage or a periodic current, the frequency of the voltage or current application being at least 9 kHz.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that the first main winding (30) and / or a second main winding (30) is subjected to a periodically changing voltage or a periodically changing current, in particular a sinusoidal voltage or a sinusoidal current, or to a pulsed voltage or a pulsed current.

12. Method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the first main winding (30) and / or a second main winding (30) is subjected to a periodic voltage or a periodic current in such a way that, in particular in each half-period of the application in the magnetic field-sensitive component (10), the saturation flux density of the component is reached.

13. Charging cable for charging an electric vehicle, wherein the charging cable comprises a sensor according to one of claims 1 to 7 and / or a sensor arrangement according to claim 8 and / or a circuit breaker according to claim 9.

14. Charging station for charging electric vehicles, where the Charging station has a sensor according to one of claims 1 to 7 and / or a sensor arrangement according to claim 8 and / or a circuit breaker according to claim 9.

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