Elliptical Magnetic Field Sensor Layout for Flat Busbar Current Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring electric current in conductors with non-cylindrical cross sections, such as flat busbars, are sensitive to conductor geometry and require flux concentrators, leading to logistical challenges and measurement inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic field sensor arrangement comprising at least three sensors positioned equidistantly on an ellipse circumference, without a flux concentrator, optimized to minimize measurement deviations by adjusting axial spacings based on the number of sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnetic field sensors are arranged on a circle to measure current, then measurement is feasible for round conductors, but measurement accuracy deteriorates for conductors with rectangular cross section
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by transforming the traditional circular sensor arrangement into an elliptical arrangement. The ellipse has different semi-axes (a and b) that can be optimized to match the rectangular cross-section geometry of the conductor, thereby improving measurement accuracy for non-circular conductors while maintaining the ability to measure various conductor types
2Measurement precision
If a circular current transformer design is used, then it works for cylindrical conductors, but it requires relatively large design and reduces measurement accuracy for flat conductors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the symmetric circular transformer design with an asymmetric elliptical design. The ellipse's semi-axes can be optimized to match the conductor dimensions, allowing for a more compact design that is specifically adapted to flat conductors while maintaining measurement accuracy
3Measurement precision
If conductor-specific comparison is performed for sensor assembly validation, then measurement accuracy is ensured for specific busbar shapes, but logistical burden increases due to busbar-specific storage requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal sensor assembly with an elliptical arrangement that can accurately measure multiple types of conductors (round, rectangular, flat) without requiring conductor-specific calibration or storage. The elliptical geometry serves multiple functions by adapting to different conductor cross-sections through optimization of its semi-axes
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The sensor arrangement provides accurate current measurement with minimal dependence on conductor geometry, enabling cost-effective manufacturing and easy comparison across different busbar shapes, reducing logistical burdens and improving measurement accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
at least three magnetic field sensors (2), wherein the at least three magnetic field sensors (2) are arranged on a circumference of an ellipse (4)... wherein the magnetic field is measured without using a flux concentrator
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of the teachings herein include an apparatus for measuring a magnetic field of a conductor of an electric current. The apparatus may include three magnetic field sensors arranged on a circumference of a non-circular ellipse defined by parallel projection or orthogonal projection of a circle. Three first positions are arranged equidistantly on a circumference of the circle. The three first positions emerge from the parallel projection or the orthogonal projection onto at least three second positions on the ellipse. The three magnetic field sensors are arranged at the three second positions. The magnetic field is measured without using a flux concentrator.