Integrated Multi-Path Current Difference Detection for Compact Sensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current detection methods, such as current transformers and Hall sensors, are bulky, complex, expensive, and inaccurate for detecting current differences in multiple paths, especially when affected by temperature, and require multiple sensors for multi-path detection, increasing costs.

Innovation Solution

A multi-path current difference detection device comprising an induction component and a determination unit, which can be implemented as an integrated circuit, to calculate and detect net current values across multiple paths, using components like Hall components or magnetoresistances, and provide detection signals based on current thresholds.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If current transformers are used to detect current in multiple paths, then current detection capability is achieved, but device size becomes large and circuit complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurrent detection capabilityVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple current detection functions into a single integrated circuit device. The detection device integrates multiple sensing elements and signal processing circuits that can simultaneously detect currents in multiple paths, eliminating the need for separate current transformers for each path and reducing overall circuit complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated detection device is designed to perform multiple detection functions within a single unit. It can detect currents in different paths simultaneously and handle both AC and DC current detection, providing universal current detection capability that replaces multiple specialized devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If current transformers are used for current detection, then current measurement is achieved, but temperature stability deteriorates and detection accuracy drifts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurrent measurement accuracyVSAvoidtemperature stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs sensing elements and circuit design that maintain stable electrical characteristics across temperature variations. By selecting materials and circuit configurations with low temperature coefficients, the device achieves temperature compensation without requiring additional active compensation circuits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple Hall sensors are used to detect currents in multiple paths, then multi-path current detection capability is achieved, but device cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-path detection capabilityVSAvoiddevice cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple sensing elements and signal processing circuits into a single monolithic integrated circuit. This consolidation allows multi-path current detection to be achieved using one device instead of multiple separate Hall sensors, thereby reducing component count, assembly complexity, and overall device cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Measurement precision

If conventional current detection devices are used, then current detection is achieved, but detection accuracy and response speed are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoiddetection response speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional electromagnetic sensing mechanisms with modern solid-state sensing elements and integrated circuit signal processing. This substitution enables faster response times and higher detection accuracy by utilizing electronic rather than mechanical or purely electromagnetic methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 device achieves compact size, accurate detection of AC or DC current differences, reduces electromagnetic interference, operates in high temperatures, and maintains high detection accuracy (95%) with detection times under 1 second, supporting laminated circuit boards with precise spacing.

Implementation Method 1

The induction component induces a plurality of currents flowing through a plurality of paths, and calculates a net current value of a plurality of current values of the plurality of currents

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The induction component is a Hall component, a tunneling magnetoresistance, an anisotropic magnetoresistance, a giant magnetoresistance, a colossal magnetoresistance, an ordinary magnetoresistance, or a shunt resistor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHall effect: Hall Effect

Implementation Method 3

The induction component is a Hall component, a tunneling magnetoresistance, an anisotropic magnetoresistance, a giant magnetoresistance, a colossal magnetoresistance, an ordinary magnetoresistance, or a shunt resistor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetoresistance: Magnetoresistance

Data Source

PatentEP4600664A1Multi-path current difference detection device
Publication Date: 2025.08.13 DELTA ELECTRONICS INC(CN)
  • EP4600664A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4600664A1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP4600664A1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A multi-path current difference detection device includes an induction component (11) and a determination unit (12). The induction component (11) induces a plurality of currents flowing through a plurality of paths (Pi1-Pi4), and calculates a net current value of a plurality of current values of the plurality of currents. The determination unit (12) receives a current signal (Sin) corresponding to the net current value, and provides a detection signal (Sdet) when determining that the current signal (Sin) is greater than or equal to a current threshold.