Split-Core Current Transformer for Live AC/DC Cable Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing current transformers, such as ring current transformers, require temporary power outage to measure current in a conducting wire, leading to economic losses and security risks, and are limited in measuring both AC and DC currents accurately.
Innovation Solution
A detachable multi-core current transformer with two transformer assemblies, each comprising stacked iron core components, allows for detachable connection to form closed ring-shaped cores wound with coils, enabling current measurement without power outage by inducing current in coils as the cable under test passes through the enclosed area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional ring current transformer is used to measure current, then the measurement can be performed, but temporary power outage is required which causes economic losses and security risks
Solution Approach 1:
The current transformer is divided into a first transformer assembly and a second transformer assembly that can be separately handled and then connected. This segmentation allows the transformer to be opened for cable installation without requiring complete disconnection of the measured circuit, thus maintaining power supply continuity while enabling current measurement.
2Measurement precision
If a multi-core current transformer is used to measure both AC and DC current components, then measurement accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-core transformer is segmented into two separate assemblies, each containing iron core components and coils. This segmentation reduces the complexity of handling and installing the entire transformer while maintaining the multi-core structure necessary for accurate AC and DC current measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The detachable transformer assemblies are designed to be universally applicable for measuring both AC and DC current components. The first and second assemblies work together to provide multi-functional measurement capabilities, allowing a single device to handle multiple measurement tasks without requiring separate specialized transformers.
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
Enables accurate measurement of both AC and DC components of current in a cable under test without disrupting power, reducing economic losses and security risks, and is suitable for applications like solar power and electric vehicle testing.
Implementation Method 1
induced current related to current in the cable under test is generated in at least one coil of the coils
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed in the present application is a current transformer, which comprises a first transformer assembly and a second transformer assembly. The first transformer assembly comprises a first group of stacked iron core components, and a first interface and a second interface are defined at an end of the first transformer assembly. The second transformer assembly comprises a second group of stacked iron core components, and a third interface and a fourth interface are defined at an end of the second transformer assembly. At least one of the first interface and the second interface is detachably connected with at least one of the third interface and the fourth interface. When the first transformer assembly and the second transformer assembly are connected with each other, the first group of iron core components and the second group of iron core components are combined to form a plurality of closed ring-shaped iron cores, and coils are respectively wound on at least two closed ring-shaped iron cores. An enclosed area defined between the first transformer assembly and the second transformer assembly causes induced current to be generated in at least one coil.