The power quality analyzer (PQA) device toroidal current transformer

The modular toroidal current transformer addresses cable costs, open-circuit risks, and measurement inaccuracies by enabling detachable installation on or near the PQA device, ensuring cost-effective and accurate current measurement.

WO2026003677A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-01-02TUBITAK
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/IB2025/056322
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-06-20
Publication Date
2026-01-02

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Current transformers in power quality analyzers face issues such as significant cable costs and risks due to long distances, potential open-circuit situations, and increased resistive load leading to measurement inaccuracies and space inefficiencies.

Method used

A detachable and modular toroidal current transformer design that allows placement on or near the PQA device, using attachable and removable electronic cards and connectors, reducing cable lengths and preventing open-circuit risks while maintaining measurement accuracy.

Benefits of technology

Reduces costs, minimizes open-circuit hazards, and ensures precise measurements by eliminating long-distance cabling and resistive loads, while allowing flexible installation and space-efficient use.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

Information is provided about the "Power Quality Analyzer" (PQA) [1] device, current transformers, toroidal rings, panel rails and the functions of these components. PQA [1] device detects and measures power quality problems by analyzing the quality of electrical energy. A toroidal current transformer [2] is a transformer used to measure or monitor current in electrical circuits. Toroidal rings [3] are used to direct or focus magnetic flux. Panel rails [4] are used to mount components in electrical panels in an orderly manner. In addition, the toroidal current transformer top cover [5] and toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6] protect the internal components of the current transformer and are used for mounting. The fact that these components can be plugged and unplugged reduces the cost of wiring between the measurement transformers and the PQA device [1] and ensures safety. In addition, it is stated that the invention increases data accuracy by reducing cables that create resistive loads over long distances. The invention also uses the advantage of being attachable and detachable / removable in order to ensure structured operation in complex power plants by allowing the toroidal rings [3] to be located near or on the PQA [1] device. The toroidal current transformer [2] can be connected to the Power Quality Analyzer [1] device with at least one connector or at least one cable and at least one cable connector. The connection method in question can be decided according to the proximity of the toroidal current transformer [2] to the Power Quality Analyzer [1], In dense and crowded panels, the ability to mount the toroidal current transformer on the device ensures the most efficient use..
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Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] THE POWER QUALITY ANALYZER (PQA) DEVICE

[0003] TOROIDAL CURRENT TRANSFORMER

[0004] Technical Field to Which the Invention Relates

[0005] The invention, which is generally related to power electronic systems in the energy sector, is more specifically related to the current transformer of the Power Quality Analyzer (PQA) device.

[0006] State of the Art

[0007] Current transformers are measurement transformers used to measure the current passing through the circuit and are generally used in situations where the current passing through an installation needs to be increased or decreased. They are divided into different types according to the voltage they are used in, cooling and construction methods. These can be classified as low voltage current transformers, high voltage transformers, winding current transformers, dry type current transformers, oil type current transformers and busbar type current transformers. In cases where current transformers are not used, larger protective relays and large measuring instruments must be used to measure high current values. Thanks to the use of current transformers, smaller measuring instruments and protection relays can be used. In this way, a more economical and secure solution is provided.

[0008] Toroidal current transformers consist of a coil wrapped around a magnetic core in the shape of a toroid and measure the current passing through the coil wrapped around the magnetic field. Toroidal current transformers are used to monitor electricity consumption, control power quality, and protect electrical circuits. They are important tools for many applications where precise measurements of electric current are required to increase energy efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize power system performance.

[0009] Toroidal current transformers attract attention with their many advantages and wide usage areas in electronic systems. Their advantages include providing less leakage magnetic flux and therefore causing less electromagnetic interference. In addition, thanks to their compact structure, they take up less space and are lighter, which makes them preferred in portable devices and applications with limited space. These transformers are widely used in many areas such as sound systems, power supplies, electronic devices and power amplifiers. Technological developments lead to the continuous development of toroidal current transformers with innovative materials and winding techniques. These developments increase the efficiency of transformers, allowing them to operate in smaller sizes and at higher power densities. As a result, toroidal current transformers play an important role as power sources of electronic systems and are constantly being developed. In state-of-the-art products, toroidal current transformers are integrated into devices and are difficult to intervene. Disconnecting the transformer connection due to the risk of open circuit at the slightest problem can cause serious problems. The risk of open circuit caused by current transformers in transformer stations brings with it significant concerns for the safe and efficient operation of electrical systems. Current transformers play a vital role in intelligently measuring and monitoring the electric current within the system. However, if an open circuit fault occurs in a current transformer, it can lead to inaccurate or completely missing current measurements. This can seriously compromise the station's ability to effectively regulate and manage the electrical load, causing equipment overload, voltage instability, or even transformer overheating or isolation collapse. In addition, the lack of reliable current data due to open circuits can prevent potential faults or abnormalities within the system from being detected and prevented in a timely manner, can increase the risk of electrical accidents or outages. Therefore, proper operation and maintenance of current transformers are important to reduce the risk of open circuit conditions and maintain the overall reliability and safety of the transformer station. Regular inspections, tests, and timely replacement of faulty equipment are essential measures to cope with this risk and maintain the integrity of the electrical infrastructure. The invention generally provides a solution to these serious problems.

[0010] Current transformers are generally products that are already available and have been used for years. Although there are many examples in the literature, the problems mentioned above are encountered in these examples as well; with the current patent application, a solution is offered to the problems in the transformer center thanks to modularity.

[0011] The invention mentioned in the patent application titled “Non-circular Current Transformer Intended for Use in High Voltage Switchgear Systems” numbered TR2023 / 010696 relates to a current transformer, which is used particularly in high voltage switching cells allowing more than one cable to pass through, whose non-circular structure is preferably formed in the form of an ellipse,. In the patent application numbered TR2022 / 009364 and titled “Metal Enclosed Medium and High Voltage Switchgear Equipped with Current Transformer Transport Cart”, an invention is mentioned regarding a metal enclosed medium and high voltage switching cubicle used in medium and high voltage switching systems, which includes at least a current transformer in its structure, at least one primary door associated with the breaker section and at least one secondary door associated with the cable section so that the said current transformer can be positioned inside the metal enclosed medium and high voltage switching cubicle.

[0012] The Technical Problem That the Invention Aims to Solve

[0013] There can be significant distances (>200m) between the location of the measurement transformers and the Power Quality Analyzer (PQA) device panels in transformer centers. Extending the cables to the PQA device over these distances causes significant costs and also increases the risk of damage to the cables extending over long distances. An open-circuit situation that may occur as a result of damage to the cable may cause the measurement transformer to burn. At the same time, long cable distances create a resistance load on the measurement transformers and this load may cause a decrease in measurement accuracy.

[0014] The presence of toroidal current transformers outside the PQA device creates a more messy structure and toroidal current transformers are often lost when they are not used / installed in transformer centers. In addition, the separation of the device and toroidal current transformers from each other causes them to take up more space in the assembly panels.

[0015] With the developed design, the toroidal current transformer can be positioned both on and away from the device; thus, the current passing through the transformer can be measured both when the toroidal current transformer is on and away from the device. The measured current is carried to the device by the cables of the toroidal current transformer. Due to the ability of toroidal current transformers to be placed near or on the PQA device and due to the invention being attachable and detachable (capable of being mounted and removed), the toroidal current transformer can be carried within the panel when needed or on the PQA device when required (Figure 1 and Figure 4). The invented toroidal current transformer, when connected to on or near the device, addresses issues such as cost, resistive load, and hazardous open-circuit problems experienced at a distance, as well as problems like loss and occupying more space in panel assemblies when connected far from the device. The device's detachable and reconnectable design ensures safety and eliminates cable costs between measurement transformers and the PQA device, which are located at significant distances. In this way, the mess that may occur in complex and large power plants is prevented. Cables extending over long distances create a resistive load, which causes a decrease in measurement accuracy. The invention eliminates the need for long-distance cabling, thereby reducing costs and preventing issues such as open-circuit risks and large explosions. Additionally, the electronic design, configured with zener diodes on the secondary side, prevents open-circuit formation and voltage spikes between the device and the toroidal current transformer, reduces resistance, and thus enables more precise and reliable measurements. With the developed invention, currents passing through the current transformers can be measured both when the transformer is mounted on the device and when it is located remotely, by transmitting the measured currents to the device via cables. In this way, current measurement can be made both while they are on the device and while they are away from the device.

[0016] Explanation of Figures

[0017] Figure 1. It shows the situation where the toroidal current transformer is mounted on the device and located on the panel next to the device.

[0018] Figure 2. It shows how the toroidal current transformer is mounted on the rail and the rear view.

[0019] Figure 3. Top view of the toroidal current transformer showing how it is connected to the Power Quality Analyzer (PQA) device.

[0020] Figure 4. The disassembled view of the toroidal current transformer.

[0021] Figure 5. The assembled view of the toroidal current transformer.

[0022] Explanations of References in Figures

[0023] [1] Power Quality Analyzer (PQA)

[0024] [2] Toroidal current transformer

[0025] [3] Toroidal ring

[0026] [4] Panel rail [5] Toroidal current transformer top cover

[0027] [6] Toroidal current transformer bottom cover

[0028] [7] Toroidal current transformer electronic card

[0029] [8] Toroidal current transformer device connector

[0030] [9] Mounting protrusion

[0031]

[0010] Mounting slot

[0032]

[0011] Rail mounting lock

[0033] Disclosure of the Invention

[0034] When the PQA device is used to monitor medium voltage or high voltage feeders (electrical feeder, line used for energy transmission, transformer or equipment to which the cable is connected) in transformer centers or power plants, it requires measurement transformers for current and voltage in the relevant center. These measurement transformers are used to reduce the feeder voltage and current level to the range that the PQA device can measure. The secondary of the current transformers used for current measurement commonly has an output level of 5 Amperes. Therefore, cables with a cross-section of 6mm2 are commonly used in the field to carry this current. This 5 A level current is reduced by the toroidal current transformers, which are part of the PQA device, at a rate of 2000: 1 and connected to the current measurement input of the device.

[0035] The PQA device can contain as many toroidal current transformers as the number of feeders on it. Since the current transformer is used to obtain current information on the feeders in the power lines, the number of toroidal current transformers is determined according to how many feeders the PQA device can measure. Therefore, more than one toroidal current transformer can be positioned on the PQA device according to the need. Figure 1 shows toroidal current transformers in different positions.

[0036] In cases where toroidal current transformers are on or inside the device: • In these centers, there can be significant distances (>200m) between the location of the measurement transformers and the PQA device panels. Extending these cables to the PQA device over these distances can cause significant costs.

[0037] • The risk of damage to cables extending over long distances also increases. An opencircuit situation that may occur as a result of damage to this cable can cause the measurement transformer to bum.

[0038] • Long cable distances create a resistive load on the measurement transformers. This load can also cause a decrease in measurement accuracy.

[0039] In cases where toroidal current transformers are far from the device:

[0040] • The presence of toroidal current transformers outside the PQA device creates a more scattered structure and is often lost when not used / installed in transformer centers.

[0041] • The separation of the device and toroidal current transformers from each other causes them to take up more space in the assembly panels.

[0042] A single type or two different design toroidal current transformers are required for transformer centers or power plants where the PQA device is installed. When it is connected on or near the device, there are problems such as cost, resistive load and dangerous open circuit problems experienced from a distance, and when it is connected from a distance, there are problems such as loss and taking up more space in the mounting panels. The present invention offers a solution to these problems. Thanks to the invented toroidal current transformer design, the toroidal current transformer [2] can be connected to the device with the attachable and detachable / removable toroidal current transformer electronic card [7] and toroidal current transformer device connector [8], it can be placed inside or outside the panel according to the need, and it can be mounted on the panel rail [4] (Figure 1-3). Thanks to the mounting protrusions [9], it can be connected to both the panel rail [4] and the PQA [1] device in the same way, and it does not require a different apparatus. When it is connected on the panel rail [4], the toroidal current transformer [2] is fixed to the panel rail [4] with the rail mounting lock

[0011] , The PQA [1] device can contain as many toroidal current transformers [2] as the number of feeders on it. Therefore, more than one toroidal current transformer [2] can be positioned in different positions on the PQA [1] device, depending on the need. With the current invention, thanks to the toroidal rings [3] in toroidal current transformers [2] being accessible from outside, the cables coming from the outputs of the measurement transformers are ensured to pass through the toroidal rings [3] without interruption and return to the measurement transformer (Figure 1-4).

[0043] The Power Quality Analyzer (PQA) [1] is a device that collects and analyzes information about the quality of electrical energy. It detects and measures power quality problems such as voltage fluctuations, harmonic distortions, voltage sags, waveform distortions. It also monitors other power quality parameters such as frequency shifts, phase imbalances, and transient events. Power quality analyzers are used in electrical networks, industrial facilities, energy production and distribution systems. These devices provide information to the user to detect power quality problems, determine their source, and take corrective measures.

[0044] A toroidal current transformer [2] is a transformer used to measure or monitor current in an electrical circuit. A current transformer consists of a primary winding through which the main circuit current flows. The secondary winding produces an induced current that is used by measuring instruments, relays, or other devices. This induced secondary current is directly proportional to the ratio of the primary current and is usually of a lower value. Current transformers are commonly used in energy distribution systems, electric motors, measuring instruments, and protection relays.

[0045] A toroidal ring [3] is a component used to direct, protect, or focus magnetic flux. These rings, which are usually circular or toroidal in shape, are formed by winding a magnetic material. This material is usually a material with high magnetic permeability, such as iron or ferrite. Toroidal rings are widely used in electronic circuits in applications such as inductors, transformers, and filters. The magnetic flux flows cyclically inside the toroidal ring and has a reduced tendency to leak out, allowing efficient magnetic circuits to be created. Toroidal rings [3] are connected to the toroidal current transformer electronic card [7] with their own connectors. In one embodiment of the invention, there are 4 toroidal rings [3], 3 Phases and 1 Neutral.

[0046] The panel rail [4] is a carrier system used to mount electrical components in electrical panels or control panels. It is usually a rail made of metal or plastic and is fixed to the inside of the panel. The panel rail is equipped with holes or channels and allows the components to be mounted to be placed in an orderly and neat manner. Thus, distribution switches, fuse boxes, protection relays and other electrical components can be attached to the panel rail by screwing or clipping. The panel rail ensures the order of the electrical panel and eases maintenance.

[0047] The toroidal current transformer top cover [5] is a part that covers and protects the upper part of the current transformer. It is usually made of metal or plastic material. It protects the internal components of the toroidal current transformer [2] from dust, moisture or mechanical damage. It may also contain mounting protrusions or connectors, allowing the current transformer to be easily mounted and connected.

[0048] The toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6] is a part that covers and protects the lower part of the current transformer. It is usually made of metal or plastic material. It protects the internal components of the toroidal current transformer [2] from external factors and holds them securely. It may include mounting protrusions or connectors, which allow the current transformer to be easily mounted and connected.

[0049] The toroidal current transformer electronic card [7] is the card that contains the circuits that will transfer the current information passing through the toroidal rings to the device.

[0050] The toroidal current transformer device connector [8] is the connection that allows the information coming from the electronic card to be transferred to the device.

[0051] The mounting protrusion [9] and the mounting slot

[0010] ensure that the toroidal current transformer top cover [5] and the toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6] are held together and remain united so that the toroidal current transformer electronic card [7] can remain inside. The mounting protrusion [9] on the toroidal current transformer top cover [5] combines with the mounting slot

[0010] on the toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6], thus ensuring the closure of the box.

[0052] The rail mounting lock

[0011] ensures that the toroidal current transformer [2] remains fixed on the panel rail [4] when positioned on the panel rail [4],

[0053] Toroidal current transformers are generally positioned to monitor currents on the power line, which are added to the systems later. Although the monitoring locations in large power networks are fixed, when a change is required or when a change is made to monitor different feeders, the network cables where the toroidal current transformers are located may need to be cut. Although it is sufficient to keep it on the device for fixed systems, it is advantageous for the current transformer to be away from the device when its location needs to be changed. In this way, the toroidal current transformer is never disconnected from the network and replacing only the cable, preferably 4x2x0.5, connected from the current transformer to the device is sufficient. This cable does not cause any harm to the network. It does not pose any open circuit risk either. In other words, plugging the toroidal current transformer [2] to the device closely with the toroidal current transformer device connector [8] is sufficient to place it where it should be on the device, and in cases; where it is far away, it can be connected to the device with a cable connector, preferably 4x2x0.5, by means of the cables positioned between the PQA [1] device and the toroidal current transformer [2], Here, the cable positioned between the PQA [1] device and the toroidal current transformer [2] is connected to the toroidal current transformer [2] with the toroidal current transformer device connector [8] and to the PQA [1] device with the cable connector. Therefore, the toroidal current transformer [2] can be connected to the Power Quality Analyzer [1] device with at least one toroidal current transformer device connector [8] or at least one cable and at least one cable connector. The connection method in question can be decided according to the proximity of the toroidal current transformer [2] to the PQA [1] device. The invented toroidal current transformer [2] can be connected to the PQA [1] device with the toroidal current transformer electronic card [7] and toroidal current transformer device connector [8], can be placed inside or outside the panel as needed, and can be mounted on the panel rail [4], After the device is mounted on the rail, it must be fixed with the rail mounting lock

[0011] in order to remain stable. Thanks to the mounting protrusions, it can be connected to both the rail and the device and does not require a different apparatus. Thanks to these features, the developed toroidal current transformer [2] can be attached and removed from the Power Quality Analyzer [1] device.

[0054] In one embodiment of the invention, the toroidal current transformer [2] includes at least one toroidal ring [3], at least one toroidal current transformer top cover [5], at least one toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6], at least one toroidal current transformer electronic card [7], at least one toroidal current transformer device connector [8], at least one mounting protrusion [9], at least one mounting slot

[0010] and at least one rail mounting lock

[0011] ,

[0055] In one embodiment of the invention, the toroidal current transformer [2] comprises at least one toroidal ring [3], at least one toroidal current transformer top cover [5], at least one toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6], at least one toroidal current transformer electronic card [7], at least one toroidal current transformer device connector [8], at least one mounting protrusion [9] and at least one mounting slot

[0010] ,

[0056] In one embodiment of the invention, the toroidal current transformer top cover [5] includes at least one mounting protrusion [9], the toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6] includes at least one mounting slot

[0010] , and the toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6] includes at least one rail mounting lock

[0011] ,

[0057] In one embodiment of the invention, the toroidal current transformer [2] includes four toroidal rings [3], one toroidal current transformer top cover [5], one toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6], one toroidal current transformer electronic card [7], one toroidal current transformer device connector [8], one mounting protrusion [9], one bottom cover mounting slot

[0010] , and one rail mounting lock

[0011] ,

[0058] In one embodiment of the invention, the toroidal current transformer [2] includes four toroidal rings [3], one toroidal current transformer top cover [5], one toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6], one toroidal current transformer electronic card [7], one toroidal current transformer device connector [8], one mounting protrusion [9] and one bottom mounting slot

[0010] ,

[0059] In one embodiment of the invention, the toroidal current transformer [2] includes at least 3 and at most 4 toroidal rings [3],

[0060] In another embodiment of the invention, the toroidal current transformer [2] includes four toroidal rings [3], which are 3 Phases and 1 Neutral.

[0061] In one embodiment of the invention, the toroidal current transformer [2] includes three toroidal rings [3], one toroidal current transformer top cover [5], one toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6], one toroidal current transformer electronic card [7], one toroidal current transformer device connector [8], one mounting protrusion [9], one bottom cover mounting slot

[0010] and one rail mounting lock

[0011] ,

[0062] In one embodiment of the invention, the toroidal current transformer [2] includes three toroidal rings [3], one toroidal current transformer top cover [5], one toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6], one toroidal current transformer electronic card [7], one toroidal current transformer device connector [8], one mounting protrusion [9] and one bottom mounting slot

[0010] , In another embodiment of the invention, the toroidal current transformer [2] includes three toroidal rings [3], which are 3 Phase.

[0063] How the Invention is Applied to Industry The invented toroidal current transformer can be used at transformer centers, power plants, factories, etc. where measurements will be made, by remaining fixed on the PQA device and connecting with current carrying cables to be pulled from the relevant measurement transformer, or by using separately from the PQA device and mounted near to the measurement transformer when necessary.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A toroidal current transformer [2] comprising at least one toroidal ring [3], at least one toroidal current transformer top cover [5], at least one toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6], at least one toroidal current transformer electronic card [7], at least one toroidal current transformer device connector [8], at least one mounting protrusion [9] and at least one mounting slot [10], characterized by being attachable to and detachable from the Power Quality Analyzer [1] device.

2. A toroidal current transformer [2] according to claim 1, characterized in that, it comprises at least one rail mounting lock [11] in addition to its featured parts.

3. A toroidal current transformer [2] according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises four toroidal rings [3],4. A toroidal current transformer [2] according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the toroidal rings [3] are accessible from the outside.

5. A toroidal current transformer [2] according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the toroidal current transformer [2] is connected to the Power Quality Analyzer [1] device with at least one connector or at least one cable and at least one cable connector.

6. A toroidal current transformer [2] according to claim 5, characterized in that the connection to the Power Quality Analyzer [1] device is provided with at least one 4x2x0.5 cable.

7. A toroidal current transformer [2] according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises four toroidal rings [3], one toroidal current transformer top cover [5], one toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6], one toroidal current transformer electronic card [7], one toroidal current transformer device connector [8], one mounting protrusion [9] and one mounting slot [10],8. A toroidal current transformer [2] according to claim 2, characterized in that it comprises four toroidal rings [3], one toroidal current transformer top cover [5], one toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6], one toroidal current transformer electronic card [7], one toroidal current transformer device connector [8] and one mounting protrusion [9], one mounting slot [10] and one rail mounting lock [11],9. A toroidal current transformer [2] according to claim 3 or 7 or 8, characterized in that the toroidal rings [3] are 3 Phases and 1 Neutral.

10. A toroidal current transformer [2] according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises three toroidal rings [3],11. A toroidal current transformer [2] according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises three toroidal rings [3], one toroidal current transformer top cover [5], one toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6], one toroidal current transformer electronic card [7], one toroidal current transformer device connector [8], one mounting protrusion [9] and one mounting slot [10],12. A toroidal current transformer [2] according to claim 2, characterized in that it comprises three toroidal rings [3], one toroidal current transformer top cover [5], one toroidal current transformer bottom cover [6], one toroidal current transformer electronic card [7], one toroidal current transformer device connector [8] and one mounting protrusion [9], a mounting slot [10] and one rail mounting lock [11],13. A toroidal current transformer [2] according to claim 10 or 11 or 12, characterized in that the toroidal rings [3] are 3 Phases.

14. A toroidal current transformer [2] according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it can be positioned on or away from the Power Quality Analyzer [1] device.

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