Current Transformer Core Layout for Space-Limited GIS Connectors

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Solution Overview

Problem

The installation of conventional closed core current transformers in gas insulated switchgear is time-consuming and requires significant space, while open core transformers are expensive and also need ample space, making them impractical for installations in confined areas.

Innovation Solution

A current transformer arrangement featuring an adapter with a housing and an annular core surrounding the exterior, allowing for easy installation and measurement of current conductors, which can be pre-installed and tested before integration with the switchgear.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a closed core current transformer is used, then measurement reliability is improved, but installation time increases and installation space requirement increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The current transformer core is divided into two separate portions (first core portion and second core portion) that can be independently installed on either side of the connector housing, eliminating the need for complex disassembly during installation while maintaining the closed core structure for measurement reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The current transformer core portions are pre-installed on the adapter housing before the connector is assembled, allowing the measurement function to be ready in advance without requiring time-consuming on-site installation of the complete transformer structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If a closed core current transformer is used, then measurement reliability is improved, but installation space requirement increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation space
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The current transformer core is segmented into two portions distributed on opposite sides of the connector housing, which distributes the spatial requirement and reduces the concentrated installation space needed compared to a traditional closed core transformer

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The current transformer core portions are integrated with the adapter housing structure, with the core portions positioned around the housing that already exists in the switchgear, thereby utilizing existing space rather than requiring additional dedicated installation space

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Ease of operation

If an open core current transformer is used, then installation ease is improved, but cost increases and installation space requirement increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The current transformer is designed as two separate core portions that can be independently manufactured and assembled, simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing costs compared to producing a complete closed core transformer, while maintaining ease of installation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The two open core portions are combined with the adapter housing to form an integrated measurement system that achieves the functionality of a closed core transformer at lower manufacturing cost and with similar installation ease

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Facilitates efficient and space-saving current measurement by integrating the transformer core at the interface with the connector, reducing installation time and costs, and enabling pre-factory testing for reliability.

Implementation Method 1

an annular current transformer core surrounding an exterior of the housing for measuring a current of the current conductor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12476441B2Arrangement of a current transformer core at an interface with a conical connector
Publication Date: 2025.11.18 SIEMENS ENERGY GLOBAL GMBH & CO KG
  • US12476441B2 patent drawing
  • US12476441B2 patent drawing
  • US12476441B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A current transformer arrangement for a gas-insulated switchgear is provided. The current transformer arrangement includes an adapter having a housing, the housing defining a first end connection opening, a second end connection opening and a hollow interior, a current conductor passing through the hollow interior of the adapter, and an annular current transformer core surrounding an exterior of the housing for measuring a current of the current conductor.