Flexible Current Sensor with Segmented Magnetic Core
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-contact current sensors, such as clamp-type sensors, are cumbersome and prone to damage in tight spaces due to their rigid design and weight, and are not suitable for measuring direct current (DC) currents, while Rogowski coils are not capable of measuring DC.
Innovation Solution
A flexible current sensor with a magnetically conductive loop and magnetic field sensors that can measure DC current, featuring a magnetically conductive loop with strands that include an insulator layer, allowing for accurate measurement without the need for heavy, rigid jaws, and a driver circuit to nullify the magnetic field for precise current determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If clamp-type sensors with rigid jaws are used, then measurement accuracy is improved, but weight and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic core is divided into multiple discrete segments or beads that can flex relative to each other, allowing the sensor to conform to irregular conductor shapes while maintaining measurement accuracy. This segmentation eliminates the need for heavy rigid jaws while preserving the magnetic circuit functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible magnetic core composed of thin magnetic beads or segments that can bend and flex to wrap around conductors of various shapes and sizes. This flexible structure replaces traditional rigid clamp jaws, significantly reducing weight while maintaining measurement precision through proper magnetic circuit design.
2Measurement precision
If clamp-type sensors with rigid jaws are used, then measurement accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic core transitions from a rigid static structure to a flexible dynamic structure that can adapt its shape. The flexible beads or segments can bend and flex to accommodate tight spaces and irregular conductor geometries, making the sensor much easier to position and operate in confined areas while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible magnetic core composed of thin magnetic beads allows the sensor to conform to irregular shapes and fit into tight spaces where rigid clamp sensors cannot be positioned. This flexibility dramatically improves ease of operation without compromising the magnetic circuit's ability to provide accurate measurements.
3Weight of moving object
If Rogowski coils are used, then weight and flexibility are improved, but measurement capability deteriorates for DC current
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor combines the flexible structure of Rogowski coils with the DC measurement capability of magnetically conductive materials. By using flexible magnetic beads or segments with appropriate magnetic properties, the sensor achieves both the light weight and flexibility of Rogowski coils while maintaining the ability to measure DC current through proper magnetic flux generation and sensing.
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 flexible current sensor provides accurate and reliable measurement of DC current in tight spaces without damaging components, offering a lighter and more versatile alternative to traditional clamp-type sensors while maintaining the precision of Rogowski coils.
Implementation Method 1
The strands are configured to pass a magnetic field to a first magnetic field sensor positioned adjacent to an end of the first plurality of strands. The magnetic field passed by the strands may be indicative of the electric current flowing through the conductor.
Implementation Method 2
The first magnetic field sensor is configured to output a signal indicative of the electric current flowing through the conductor based on the magnitude of the magnetic field measured by the first magnetic field sensor.
Implementation Method 3
The driver circuit is configured to generate an electric current that substantially nullifies the first magnetic field, wherein the electric current generated by the driver circuit is indicative of the electric current flowing through the conductor.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods for measuring current flowing through a conductor include a device comprised of a magnetically conductive loop having a plurality of strands and a magnetic field sensor. Each strand has a magnetically conductive material. The strands are configured to pass a magnetic field to a first magnetic field sensor that is positioned adjacent to an end of the first plurality of strands. The plurality of strands may be arranged in various patterns that allow the magnetically conductive loop to be more bendable or flexible than a current-clamp device.