Device for providing digital current measurement values, and system for processing digital current measurement values

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (10) and to a system (20) for providing digital current measurement values, comprising an interruption-free current measuring device (100) which provides an analog current measurement value for a measurement of an alternating current, a data transmission component (110) for transmitting and receiving data transmission signals, a computing device (120) for controlling the data transmission component (110), wherein the computing device (120) is designed to provide, on the basis of the analog current measurement value, a processed digital current measurement value in the form of data transmission signals for transmission via the data transmission component (110), and a power supply (130) which is electrically supplied by the data transmission component (110).

Description

[0001] Device for providing digital current measurement values ​​and system for processing digital current measurement values

[0002] The present invention relates to the provision of digital current measurement values ​​for further machine processing. Current measurement values ​​are determined by uninterruptible current measuring devices, which can be designed, for example, as Rogowski coils, Hall sensors, or similar devices. The uninterruptible current measuring devices are arranged for current measurement in such a way that they do not interrupt the current-carrying conductors and elements. This is particularly advantageous for conducting high currents.

[0003] These current measuring devices usually deliver weak analogue measuring signals to downstream components, so that for their safe and flexible handling either strict arrangement and installation space specifications must be observed and, in addition or alternatively, a digital conversion of the analogue measuring signals for further processing is necessary.

[0004] When transmitting weak analog signals, in addition to the correct detection of the actual signal magnitude, there is also a significant potential for interference, for example, from electromagnetic influences, connecting elements, or similar. These electromagnetic influences, contact resistances, and similar factors can couple interference into the line and thus distort the measured signal. Corresponding shielding measures are generally costly.

[0005] A disadvantage of digitally converting analog measurement signals close to the measuring point is the need for a dedicated power supply (supply) for the digital conversion and possibly additional components, which is dispensable for many uninterruptible current measuring devices. For example, a Rogowski coil does not require a dedicated power supply to determine the current measurements, which can range from a few amperes to several thousand amps.

[0006] The invention is therefore based on the object of providing a device and a system in which the strict arrangement and installation space requirements of uninterruptible current measuring devices and further components are relaxed without providing an additional voltage supply (supply) at least for the other components near the measuring point.

[0007] The object is achieved by the features of each of the independent claims. Expedient embodiments and advantageous further developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0008] Embodiments of the invention, which can be optionally combined with one another, are disclosed below with partial reference to the figures. In particular, features mentioned in the context of the device can also be implemented correspondingly in the method, for example, by a step of providing the corresponding feature or by a step of executing a function of the device. Furthermore, the device can comprise any feature mentioned in the context of the method and can be configured to execute any step mentioned in the context of the method.

[0009] A first aspect relates to a device for providing digital current measurement values. The device comprises an uninterruptible current measuring device that provides an analog current measurement value from a measurement of an alternating current. The device further comprises a data transmission component for transmitting and receiving data transmission signals. Additionally, the device comprises a computing unit for controlling the data transmission component. The computing unit is designed to provide a processed digital current measurement value based on the analog current measurement value as data transmission signals via the data transmission component for transmission. The device further comprises a power supply (feed) that is electrically supplied by the data transmission component.

[0010] Uninterruptible current measuring devices can often be retrofitted and installed in a circuit without causing the separation or interruption of electrical conductors whose current is to be measured. The current is usually measured without contact. Accordingly, testing and, additionally or alternatively, certification of the circuit can be carried out before the uninterruptible current measuring device is installed. Furthermore, currents typically ranging from approximately 100 A to several thousand amperes (for example, up to and exceeding 10,000 A) can be measured without looping any components into the current-carrying elements. With many designs of uninterruptible current measuring devices, only the conductor carrying the current to be measured needs to be enclosed by the device. Well-known examples are a Rogowski coil or so-called current transformers, which are available in closed ring or hinged versions.Alternatively, Hall generators are available for contactless current measurement, which, in contrast to the Rogowski coil, work with a control circuit.

[0011] The digital current measurements are transmitted according to the selected transmission standard, for example, in Ethernet format or other agreed standards. This may include the time of recording of the current measurement and, alternatively or additionally, data for identifying and, optionally, for parameterizing the recording device during the transmission of the current measurements. They may also contain a reference to a trigger that caused the current measurement to be recorded.

[0012] A data transmission component for sending and receiving data signals can be designed for wireless data transmission or, alternatively or in addition to, wired data transmission. Wired transmission can be aligned to standards, for example, as a fieldbus. Common fieldbus variants are Interbus, Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet, EtherCAT, CAN bus, and HART. Some of these standards can include a power supply for the data transmission component. This can be the case, for example, with Ethernet (Power over Ethernet, PoE), where power of up to 90 watts is provided in various energy classes, which can be used to power the data transmission components and, if necessary, other components. In addition, data transmission components can handle the respective data transmission protocol, the coding, and, if necessary, the modulation of the data to be transmitted.Data transmission components can also integrate a standby mode, which can be entered after a specified period of inactivity. Standby mode can be exited again based on a signal for the transmission of pending data in at least one transmission direction or upon other events.

[0013] Furthermore, wireless transmission standards can be used alternatively or additionally for the data transmission component, whereby the device's power supply can also be wireless. The power supply can be implemented, for example, as an inductive power supply, which is now becoming widespread.

[0014] The computing unit can be embodied as a microprocessor. It can include associated memory and input / output interfaces. It can include a standby mode to reduce its power consumption during such phases. The computing unit can control the remaining components of the device, in particular the data transmission component, a power supply, and alternatively or additionally, an analog-to-digital converter. The computing unit is further configured to provide a processed digital current measurement value based on the analog current measurement value as data transmission signals via the data transmission component for transmission. Optionally, the computing unit can also enable phase-by-phase digitization, wherein analog transmission of the current measurement value may also be possible between phases.Furthermore, the processing unit can synchronize a measurement cycle with the phase position of the measured alternating voltage / current, which is determined, for example, on a busbar. This enables the receiver to determine cos(phi) and active power.

[0015] A power supply feeds the device's components. The power supply itself is fed by the data transmission device. The power supply or the processing unit can optionally parameterize the transmission power supply of the data transmission device, for example, with regard to the transmission power supply class to be set. The power supply, in turn, can supply the various components in a differentiated manner. This allows individual or group-related differentiation of the individual powered components or groups of components with regard to the supply voltage, a standby mode, or current classes. A ground signal from the power supply can be used as a reference voltage when digitizing the tapped voltage. This allows for potential isolation between the power circuits, which are usually connected to the power grid, and the control electronics.

[0016] The device can include permanent recording and storage of the analog current measurements. Alternatively, the derived digital current measurements can be transmitted periodically or on request, and additionally or alternatively when the associated memory is full. Furthermore, transmission can be initiated in the case of deviating measured values ​​if the deviation exceeds a threshold. Optionally, the device can include a voltage tap for power measurement.

[0017] This advantageously eliminates the need for a power supply powered by a local supply voltage, which can result in cost and space savings. In particular, the power supply can be customized to the device's own supply (supply) as well as the supply of the components it supplies.

[0018] In embodiments, the current measuring device can be designed as a Rogowski coil, as a Hall sensor, as a plug-on current transformer, as a tubular rod current transformer or as a wound current transformer.

[0019] The Rogowski coil is advantageous for retrofitting into the circuit, as it does not require any modification. A Hall sensor can also be used to measure direct currents. A plug-in current transformer offers a space-saving implementation of an uninterruptible current measuring device. It can be designed as a fixed ring or as a hinged device for retrofitting into a circuit. Tubular rod current transformers are particularly suitable for compact designs. Wound-type current transformers are particularly well-suited for low primary rated currents.

[0020] In other embodiments, the device can comprise an analog-to-digital converter designed to receive the analog output signal of the uninterruptible current measuring device. The analog-to-digital converter can be further designed to generate a digital current measurement value based on the analog current measurement value. Furthermore, the power supply can be designed to electrically supply the analog-to-digital converter and, alternatively or additionally, the computing unit, wherein the supply can be individually adjustable to the analog-to-digital converter and the computing unit. Furthermore, the power supply can comprise a sleep mode at least for the analog-to-digital converter and, alternatively or additionally, for the computing unit. In this case, the length and, alternatively or additionally, also the time of the sleep modes for the analog-to-digital converter and for the computing unit can optionally differ from one another.Furthermore, the power supply can provide different voltages for the analog-to-digital converter and / or the arithmetic unit.

[0021] Advantageously, digitization can be achieved with commercially available analog / digital components while at the same time providing greater freedom in the choice of types, for example with regard to the supply voltage (supply) and its operation.

[0022] In exemplary embodiments, the current measuring device, the analog-to-digital converter, the data transmission component, the computing unit, and the power supply can be arranged in a single housing. Additionally or alternatively, the device can comprise a voltage measuring device in the housing, the measured values ​​of which can be taken into account together with the measured values ​​of the current measuring device when determining power.

[0023] The housing can have fastening elements for support rails, which can be mounted, for example, in a control cabinet. Furthermore, the housing can include signaling and, additionally or alternatively, adjustment elements with which the device can signal operating or error states, for example. Adjustment elements can be designed as switches, for example, as DIP (dual in-line package) switches. The voltage measuring device can be designed as a contacting component of the current conductor, for example, the busbar. This component can be designed to be mechanically movable.

[0024] This advantageously enables robust handling of the device, particularly during installation, while simultaneously identifying operating parameters during use.

[0025] In exemplary embodiments, the data transmission component can be configured as a local network connection or as a remote network connection. As a local network connection, it can be arranged, for example, with several components that further process the digital current measurement values ​​on a circuit board or on circuit boards of a housing. The local network connection or the remote network connection can be configured as a wired network connection or as a wireless network connection, with the wireless network connection also including a wireless power supply. The remote network connection can be wired and include a power supply for the device. It can correspond to one of the known fieldbuses detailed further above.

[0026] This allows the most suitable components to be used, which increases the effectiveness of the device.

[0027] In other embodiments, the network connection can be implemented as Ethernet, Interbus, Profibus, Profinet, EtherCAT, CAN bus, HART, or a cellular network. Optionally, the computing unit can execute at least a first protocol of the network connection or a further protocol of the network connection.

[0028] Ethernet is a technology that specifies software and hardware for wired data networks, originally intended for local data networks. It enables data exchange in the form of data frames between devices connected in a local network. Interbus is a fieldbus system for widespread use within a company. Interbus covers various application areas, from the sensor / actuator level in process automation to monitoring PCs. Profibus is a standardized bus system for industrial communication and data transmission, primarily in automation technology. It is a multi-master system, meaning that multiple components can act as masters to control communication processes. Profinet (PROFINET) is the open Industrial Ethernet standard of the PROFIBUS user organization. Internationally established IT standards such as TCP / IP are used for communication. EtherCAT is a real-time Ethernet.The protocol, disclosed in IEC Standard 61158, is suitable for both hard and soft real-time requirements in automation technology. The CAN bus is a bus system with a data transmission speed of up to 1 Mbps, enabling serial data exchange between control devices. HART is the global standard for sending and receiving digital information via 4-20 mA analog current loops, which connect the vast majority of field instruments to distributed control systems. A cellular network is a type of communications network consisting of a series of interconnected cells, each capable of sending and receiving data transmissions. This type of network is commonly used for cellular phone networks and other wireless networks.

[0029] This allows the most appropriate procedures and standards or quasi-standards to be used, which increases the effectiveness of the device.

[0030] In further embodiments, the device can receive a trigger signal for acquiring the analog current measurement value. The triggered acquisition of the current measurement value can constitute an additional acquisition in a temporal acquisition pattern of the current measurement value. Alternatively, the triggered acquisition of the current measurement value can be a single acquisition of the current measurement value. Furthermore, the triggered acquisition of the current measurement value can constitute the start of an acquisition in a temporal acquisition pattern of the current measurement value. The trigger signal, in turn, can comprise an acquisition time for the analog current measurement value. Additionally or alternatively, an output format of the analog current measurement value can be included. Furthermore, a scaling instruction for acquiring the analog current measurement value and, additionally or alternatively, a coding instruction for the analog current measurement value can be included.

[0031] The trigger signal can be transmitted from a central receiving device for the current measurement values. It can be transmitted to the device as a signal coded according to the transmission standard used. It can include an identification that is reused, for example, when transmitting the current measurement value acquired according to the trigger signal. It can also be transmitted depending on current measurements from other devices. Furthermore, the trigger signal can include a parameterization of the current measurement to be performed, which can include the parameter settings of the current measuring device in addition to the above-mentioned parameter settings.

[0032] This advantageously allows for dynamic and flexible control of the current measurement value acquisition.

[0033] A second aspect relates to a system for processing digital current measurement values. The system comprises a device according to the first aspect of the invention or its exemplary embodiments. The system further comprises a receiving device for receiving the processed digital current measurement value. The receiving device performs further processing of the processed digital current measurement value, which includes determining the currents determined with the current measuring device.

[0034] The receiving device can be connected to a local network used for the device, for example, an Ethernet network. Alternatively, it can also be connected to the device via an additional transmission device, which can include a cellular mobile network, a cloud, or the like. Thus, the device and the receiving device can use different transmission devices. Alternatively, the receiving device can also be part of the cloud. The processing steps of the receiving device can include threshold values ​​for the measured current value, storage of the measured current value, evaluation of a historical development of the measured current value, and similar functions. It can also include feedback to the device, which can include, for example, parameterization of the current measuring device or the device.This can further include a standby instruction to the device, the optionally parameterized trigger for a further current measurement, a registration request or confirmation from the device, and the like. Accordingly, the receiving device is designed not only to receive the digital current measurement values, but also to receive further signals from the device. Furthermore, the receiving device can also transmit signals to and receive signals from other devices. For example, if a threshold value is exceeded or not reached, a message can be sent to a maintenance unit or control unit, for example to indicate a fault. Furthermore, a change in the functions of the receiving device is possible, for example, an adaptation of a modified device, in particular its current measuring device.

[0035] Advantageously, part of the processing can be moved from the device to the receiving device and a flexibilization of the system's functions can be achieved.

[0036] In exemplary embodiments, the receiving device can be configured to receive and process at least one further processed digital current measurement value from another device. The processing by the receiving device can include determining the additional current determined by the additional current measuring device.

[0037] By connecting the receiving device to multiple devices, the receiving device can act as a central facility. Accordingly, the measurement data (current measurements) received by the various devices can be correlated with each other. Depending on this, signals can be transmitted to a controller of the devices and, additionally or alternatively, to other devices outside the system, and their responses can be received and evaluated. Placing the receiving device in the cloud can be a cost-effective and flexible design for the receiving device.

[0038] For example, determining the current in the receiving device based on the digital current measurement value may involve scaling with respect to the different current measuring devices. For example, different types of Rogowski coils may generate different analog current measurement values ​​for the same current to be measured. The same applies to different types of current measuring devices. Thus, further processing of the digital current measurement value is necessary.

[0039] This allows the functionality of the receiving device to be expanded and a cost-effective and flexible implementation to be achieved.

[0040] In other embodiments, the receiving device may comprise software for isolating applications using container virtualization. This software may optionally be implemented as Docker software in a software container and, alternatively or additionally, for execution in a cloud environment and, alternatively or additionally, for execution in a PLCnext environment.

[0041] Container virtualization involves combining software code with the operating system libraries and dependencies required to run the code into a single executable file, called a container, that can run consistently across any infrastructure. Accordingly, the implementation of the receiving device as a container can be deployed in various environments with little or no further adaptation. These can include, for example, clouds, servers, computers in local networks, or similar facilities.

[0042] Docker software is a free application isolation software using container virtualization. Docker simplifies application deployment because containers containing all necessary packages can be easily transported and installed as files.

[0043] PLCnext is an ecosystem for industrial automation consisting of open hardware, modular engineering software, a global community, and a digital software marketplace. It is promoted by Phoenix Contact.

[0044] This can advantageously accelerate the creation of the receiving device and facilitate its adaptation to different ecosystems.

[0045] In further embodiments, the receiving device can be configured to register the first device and the further device. In this context, the receiving device can be configured to transmit the trigger signal to the registered device or to the further registered device. Furthermore, the receiving device can be configured to parameterize the trigger signal.

[0046] Registration of the device in the receiving device can be implemented as a simple registration. Alternatively or additionally, the registration can include checks and, additionally or alternatively, notifications. The checks can include an admissibility check of the registration, which includes at least one of the aspects of checking against lists (blacklist, whitelist), plausibility check, or authentication. The check can also include contact with other devices outside the system.

[0047] The registration-related trigger signal can be parameterized similarly to the general trigger signal as described above.

[0048] In addition to the device and the additional device, many additional devices can be registered in the receiving device. The registration can also take into account differing properties of the devices through different registration steps. The documentation of differing properties of the devices can also be part of the registration process.

[0049] Advantageously, the coupling of the device and the receiving device can be controlled and documented so that unwanted couplings can be prevented.

[0050] In embodiments, the data transmission signal received by the device and the further device at the receiving device may be based on the trigger signal.

[0051] The signal (data transmission signal) may comprise a plurality of parameters and, for example, alternatively or in addition to digital current measurement values ​​triggered by the trigger signal, may comprise properties, error messages or status signals of the device.

[0052] This advantageously allows efficient signaling to be achieved, which can transmit a large amount of information in one signal.

[0053] In other embodiments, the further device may comprise a plurality of further devices. The digital current measurement values ​​of the device and the digital current measurement values ​​of the further devices may be correlated with one another. Optionally, in addition to or as an alternative to the digital current measurement values, digital voltage measurement values ​​of the device and digital voltage measurement values ​​of the further device may also be correlated with one another.

[0054] Capturing both types of measured values ​​(digital voltage and digital current) can be used to measure the performance of the device. Accordingly, threshold values, historical comparisons, or similar data can also include performance aspects. The performance can be determined and further processed both in the device and in the receiving device.

[0055] The correlation of parameters (for example, the digital current measurements) of different devices creates a database from which individual deviations of individual devices or groups of devices can be determined.

[0056] Advantageously, the measured value processing can be extended to comparisons between the different devices, which enable improved control, error detection and maintenance requirement prediction.

[0057] In further embodiments, the receiving device can comprise at least one anomaly detection function for the processed digital current measurement value and, additionally or alternatively, for the processed voltage measurement value. The anomaly detection function can be configured for each device and, additionally or alternatively, for the combined view of the device and the further device.

[0058] Anomaly detection differs from an error message in that the device is still operating within the intended range and is delivering corresponding measured values, but these deviate significantly from the measured values ​​of a majority of devices. These deviations can be caused by gradual deterioration of the device's components and thus transmit incorrect information that cannot be detected without comparison with the measured values ​​of other devices.

[0059] An improvement in the functional monitoring of the devices can be advantageously achieved.

[0060] In embodiments, the anomaly detection may be based on artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms.

[0061] Artificial Intelligence (AI) is characterized by its own learning ability based on provided training data. Accordingly, AI can, for example, improve anomaly detection by evaluating detected and assessed deviations of individual devices or groups of devices in the context of the training data. This allows anomaly classes to be created, which, when combined with additional parameters, can lead to different reactions. For example, a temperature or pressure dependence of current measuring devices can be detected, leading to deviations at specific locations at specific times, or to other parameters, which can also lead to targeted corrections of certain digital measured values. Predictive maintenance can also be based on AI statements.

[0062] Advantageously, this can result in a refinement of a constantly improving assessment of the operational readiness of the individual devices, which can also include at least a temporary change in the measured values.

[0063] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings based on preferred embodiments, which can be optionally combined with one another.

[0064] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of the device for providing digital current measurement values,

[0065] Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of a housing of a current measuring device in a first embodiment,

[0066] Fig. 3A is a schematic representation of a data transmission component in a first embodiment,

[0067] Fig. 3B is a schematic representation of a data transmission component in a second embodiment,

[0068] Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of a system for processing digital current measurements,

[0069] Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of a system for processing digital current measurement values ​​in a first embodiment,

[0070] Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of a system for processing digital current measurement values ​​in a second embodiment.

[0071] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of the device 10 for providing digital current measurement values. The device 10 for providing digital current measurement values ​​comprises an uninterruptible current measuring device 100, which provides an analog current measurement value from a measurement of an alternating current. The device further comprises a data transmission component 110 for sending and receiving data transmission signals and a computing unit 120 for controlling the data transmission component 110. The arrows on the data transmission component 110 represent the data exchange with networks to be connected or the like. The computing unit 120 is designed to provide a processed digital current measurement value based on the analog current measurement value as data transmission signals via the data transmission component 110 for transmission. The device further comprises a power supply 130, which is electrically supplied by the data transmission component.

[0072] The uninterruptible current measuring device 100 can be designed, for example, as a Rogowski coil, as a Hall sensor, as a plug-on current transformer, as a tubular rod current transformer or as a wound current transformer.

[0073] The device may include an analog-to-digital converter 140 configured to receive the analog output signal of the uninterruptible current measuring device 100. The analog-to-digital converter 140 may be further configured to generate a digital current measurement value. The power supply 130 is then configured to electrically supply the analog-to-digital converter 140 and the computing unit 120, i.e., to provide the supply voltage (feed) for the analog-to-digital converter 140 and the computing unit 120.

[0074] The power supply 130 can include a sleep mode for the analog-to-digital converter 140 and, additionally or alternatively, for the computing unit 120. Alternatively or additionally, the power supply 130 can provide different voltages for the analog-to-digital converter 140 and / or the computing unit 120. Optionally, the length of the sleep modes for the analog-to-digital converter and / or the computing unit can differ from one another. Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of a housing 150 of an uninterruptible current measuring device 100 in a first embodiment. The uninterruptible current measuring device 100, the optional analog-to-digital converter 140 (ADC), the data transmission component 110 (shown here as Ethernet), the computing unit 120 (PCI), and the power supply 130 are arranged in a housing 150.The device 10 may optionally comprise a voltage measuring device (not shown) in the housing, the measured values ​​of which are taken into account together with the measured values ​​of the uninterruptible current measuring device 100 in a power determination.

[0075] Fig. 3A shows a schematic representation of a data transmission component 110 of device 10 in a first embodiment. The data transmission component 110 is configured as a local network connection or a remote network connection. The local network connection or the remote network connection is configured as a wired network connection 180.

[0076] The wired network connection 180 can be configured as Ethernet, Interbus, Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet, EtherCAT, CAN bus, or HART. Optionally, the computing unit 120 can execute at least a first protocol 160 of the wired network connection 180 or a further protocol 165 of the wired network connection 180.

[0077] Further optionally, the device 10 can receive a trigger signal 170 for capturing the analog current measurement value. Optionally, the trigger signal can include a capture time for the analog current measurement value and, additionally or alternatively, an output format for the analog current measurement value. Additionally or alternatively, a scaling instruction for capturing the analog current measurement value and, additionally or alternatively, a coding instruction for the analog current measurement value can be included.

[0078] Fig. 3B shows a schematic representation of a data transmission component 110 of device 10 in a second embodiment. Figure 3B differs from Figure 3A in that the wired network connection 180 is replaced by the wireless network connection 190. This can be configured, for example, as a connection to a cellular mobile network (e.g., a 5G network) or a WLAN network. The remaining features are identical to Fig. 3A.

[0079] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of a system 20 for processing digital current measurement values. This comprises the device 10 according to the first aspect and optionally one or more of its exemplary embodiments. The system 20 further comprises a receiving device 30 for receiving the processed digital current measurement value, wherein further processing of the processed digital current measurement value is performed in the receiving device 30. The further processing comprises determining the currents determined with the current measuring device.

[0080] The signaling between the device 10 and the receiving device 30 can be carried out via one or more entities, for example via a cloud 330 or additionally or alternatively via a PLCnext (product name of Phoenix Contact) environment 340.

[0081] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a system 20 for processing digital current measurement values ​​in a first embodiment. Shown is the receiving device 30, which is configured to receive and process a processed digital current measurement value from the device 15 and at least one further processed digital current measurement value from another device 15. The processing includes determining the current determined by the current measuring device 100 and determining the further current determined by the further current measuring device 100.

[0082] Optionally, the receiving device 30 comprises software 310 for isolating applications using container virtualization, which can optionally be implemented as Docker software in a software container. Alternatively or additionally, the software can be executed in a cloud 330 and / or arranged for execution in a PLCnext environment 340 (not shown). Signaling between the device 10 and the receiving device 30 can be conducted via one or more entities, for example, via a cloud 330 and additionally or alternatively via a PLCnext (product name of Phoenix Contact) environment 340.

[0083] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of a system 20 for processing digital current measurement values ​​in a second embodiment. This system comprises the receiving device 30, which is configured to register 320 the first device 10 and the further device 15. Furthermore, the receiving device 30 is configured to transmit a trigger signal 170 to the registered device 10 or the further registered device 15. Optionally, the receiving device 30 can be configured to parameterize the trigger signal 170 (not shown).

[0084] Additionally, the data transmission signal received by device 10 and further device 15 at receiving device 30 can be based on trigger signal 170 (not shown). Further additionally, further device 15 can comprise a plurality of further devices 15 (not shown). Thus, the digital current measurement values ​​of device 10 and the digital current measurement values ​​of further devices 15 can be correlated with one another (not shown). Optionally, the digital voltage measurement values ​​of device 10 and the digital voltage measurement values ​​of further devices 15 can also be correlated with one another.

[0085] Further optionally, the receiving device 30 can include an anomaly detection feature 350 for the processed digital current measurement value. The anomaly detection feature 350 can be configured for each device 10, 15 and, additionally or alternatively, for the combined view of the device 10 and the further device(s) 15.

[0086] Finally, the anomaly detection 350 may be based on artificial intelligence algorithms (not shown).

[0087] In other words, the invention can be described as follows: It is known that conventional Rogowski coils are used as sensors for alternating current in the AC range. The conventional Rogowski coil has a voltage output and is connected as a sensor to, for example, energy meters or current measuring devices. The input variable is the alternating current in the conductor enclosed by the Rogowski coil. This can be between 0 A and 10,000 A and more. The output variable is a voltage corresponding to the input current. In embodiments (for example the PACT RCP-D95 from PHOENIX CONTACT), a 100 mA output current (the analog current measurement value) corresponding to the output voltage corresponds to an input current of 1,000 A. The analog voltage value must be sampled and digitized by an evaluation unit designed as a device (for example the EMpro from PHOENIX CONTACT) using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC).The evaluation unit must know which division ratio is relevant for the Rogowski coil.

[0088] The data of the inventive Rogowski coil (embodiment of device 10) can be provided directly as digital values. The evaluation unit used advantageously then no longer needs to have knowledge of the division ratio of the Rogowski coil used as such (current measuring device 100). A corresponding conversion in the evaluation unit is eliminated. The inventive Rogowski coil (embodiment of device 10) could, for example, provide a 64-bit value taking the division ratio into account. Furthermore, the evaluation unit no longer needs to limit the measurement channels to a maximum number of Rogowski coils or the like, since the digital values ​​(digital current measurements) can also be retrieved from many inventive Rogowski coils (embodiment of devices 10) via a communication protocol.Additionally, the physical presence of an evaluation unit is eliminated. The evaluation of the digital measured values ​​can be performed geographically remotely, for example, in a cloud service (receiving device 30).

[0089] In one embodiment, the evaluation electronics with a high-resolution analog-to-digital converter 140 (ADC) is inventively installed directly in the housing of the Rogowski coil. The value digitized by the ADC is processed by a computing unit 120 and made available, for example, on an Ethernet interface (data transmission component 110) for Ethernet-capable protocols. The power supply (local power supply) is also handled via the Ethernet interface using a power supply from the Ethernet (technically known as Power over Ethernet Protocol (PoE)), with the PoE supply feeding an internal power supply 130. The electronics (data transmission component 110, computing unit 120, power supply 130, analog-to-digital converter 140) must be shielded against EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) influences, depending on the environment.

[0090] Embodiments of the inventive device 10 and the inventive system 20 include a power save mode, in which parts of the device 10 or the entire device 10 can be temporarily placed in standby mode. The standby mode can be terminated by a wake-up signal from a timer expiration. Furthermore, negotiation of an Ethernet (PoE) energy class from among several energy classes for supplying the device 10 is possible.

[0091] The invention advantageously results in a significantly reduced cabling effort together with the saving of separate devices (evaluation units, for example EMpro), a reduction in CO2 emissions during the manufacture and operation of device 10 and system 30, a reduction in the probability of failure (technically known as Mean Time To Failure (MTTF)) and the connectivity with higher-level systems, for example control or maintenance computers.

[0092] Furthermore, there is the possibility of advance maintenance (technically known as predictive maintenance). This is a prediction that can, in particular, predict errors or failures. This can be done based on the summation function of the entire system 20, including its plurality of devices 10. In embodiments, the predictive maintenance results can also lead to the parameterization of the devices 10 and, additionally or alternatively, of the system 20. For example, in the event of temperature deviations of individual devices compared to an average of the devices, the standby time of the affected devices 10 can be extended. Alternatively, or in combination with the standby times, the periods between trigger pulses 170 can be increased. For comparable systems 20, a presetting for their operating ranges can also be achieved based on the predictive maintenance results (technically known as teach mode).

[0093] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted. Furthermore, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular installation situation or circuit arrangement to the teachings of the invention. Consequently, the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but encompasses all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

[0094] Reference symbol

[0095] 10 Device

[0096] 15 Additional device

[0097] 20 systems

[0098] 30 Receiving device

[0099] 100 Uninterruptible current measuring device

[0100] 1 10 Data transmission component

[0101] 120 computing units

[0102] 130 Power supply

[0103] 140 analog-to-digital converters

[0104] 150 housings

[0105] 160 First Protocol

[0106] 165 Further Protocol

[0107] 170 trigger signal

[0108] 180 Wired network connection

[0109] 190 Wireless network connection

[0110] 310 Software

[0111] 320 Registration

[0112] 330 Cloud

[0113] 340 PLCnext environment

[0114] 350 Anomaly Detection

Claims

Claims 1 . Device (10) for providing digital current measurement values, comprising: an uninterruptible current measuring device (100) which provides an analog current measurement value of a measurement of an alternating current, a data transmission component (110) for transmitting and receiving data transmission signals, a computing unit (120) for controlling the data transmission component (110), wherein the computing unit (120) is designed to provide a processed digital current measurement value based on the analog current measurement value as data transmission signals via the data transmission component (110) for transmission, and a power supply (130) which is electrically supplied by the data transmission component (110).

2. Device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the current measuring device (100) is designed as a Rogowski coil, as a Hall sensor, as a plug-on current transformer, as a tubular rod current transformer or as a wound current transformer.

3. Device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the device (10) comprises an analog-to-digital converter (140) which is designed to receive the analog output signal of the uninterruptible current measuring device (100), wherein the analog-to-digital converter (140) is further designed to generate a digital current measurement value, wherein the power supply (130) is designed to electrically supply the analog-to-digital converter (140) and the computing unit (120), and / or wherein the power supply comprises a sleep mode at least for the analog-to-digital converter and / or the computing unit, and / or wherein the power supply provides different voltages for the analog-to-digital converter and / or the computing unit, optionally wherein the lengths of the sleep modes for the analog-to-digital converter and / or the computing unit differ from one another.

4. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the current measuring device (100), the analog-digital converter (140), the data transmission component (110), the computing unit (120) and the power supply (130) are arranged in a housing (150) and / or wherein the device (10) comprises a voltage measuring device in the housing, the measured values of which are taken into account together with the measured values of the current measuring device (100) in a power determination.

5. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the data transmission component (110) is designed as a local network connection or as a remote network connection, and wherein the local network connection or the remote network connection is designed as a wired network connection (180) or as a wireless network connection (190).

6. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the network connection is designed as Ethernet, Interbus, Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet, EtherCAT, CAN bus, HART or cellular network, optionally wherein the computing unit (120) executes at least a first protocol (160) of the network connection or a further protocol (165) of the network connection.

7. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the device (10) receives a trigger signal (170) for detecting the analog current measurement value, optionally wherein the trigger signal (170) comprises a detection time for the analog current measurement value and / or an output format of the analog current measurement value and / or a scaling instruction for detecting the analog current measurement value and / or a coding instruction of the analog current measurement value.

8. System (20) for processing digital current measurement values, comprising: a device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, and a receiving device (30) for receiving the processed digital current measurement value, wherein the receiving device (30) is designed to carry out further processing of the processed digital current measurement value, and wherein the further processing comprises determining the currents determined with the current measuring device.

9. System (20) according to claim 8, wherein the receiving device (30) is designed to receive and process at least one further processed digital current measurement value of a further device (15), wherein the processing comprises determining the further current determined with the further current measuring device.

10. System (20) according to one of claims 8 and 9, wherein the receiving device (30) comprises software (310) for isolating applications using container virtualization, optionally as Docker software in a software container, and / or for execution in a cloud (330) and / or for execution in a programmable logic controller environment (340). 1 1. System (20) according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the receiving device (30) is designed to register (320) the first device (10) and the further device (15), wherein the receiving device (30) is designed to transmit the trigger signal (170) to the registered device (10) or the further registered device (15), optionally wherein the receiving device (30) is designed to carry out a parameterization of the trigger signal (170).

12. System (20) according to one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the signal from the device (10) and the further device (15) at the Receiving device (30) receives a data transmission signal based on the trigger signal (170).

13. System (20) according to one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the further device (15) comprises a plurality of further devices (15), wherein the digital current measurement values of the device (10) and the digital current measurement values of the further device (15) are related to one another, optionally wherein the digital voltage measurement values of the device (10) and the digital voltage measurement values of the further device (15) are related to one another.

14. System (20) according to one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the receiving device (30) comprises at least one anomaly detection (350) of the processed digital current measurement value, wherein the anomaly detection (350) is designed per device (10, 15) and / or for the joint review of the device (10) and the further device (15).

15. The system (20) of claim 14, wherein the anomaly detection (350) is based on machine learning algorithms.

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