Abstract: A system and method for current sensing includes a conductor configured to receive current flow therethrough and generate magnetic flux thereabout. The current sensor system also includes an anti-differential current sensor configured to monitor magnetic flux about the conductor. The anti-differential current sensor includes a pair of current sensors in opposing positions and disposed in the flux concentrating recesses of the conductor, and a processing component configured to receive feedback from each of the current sensors. The processing component is further configured to output a value indicative of the amount of current flow in the conductor.

Abstract: Electrical equipment is safeguarded from damage due to faults by a circuit that provides several levels of protection. A semiconductor switch and a current sensor are placed in series with the electrical equipment. When the current to the equipment exceeds a first threshold for a predefined period of time, the semiconductor switch is rendered non-conductive until the circuit is specifically reset. When the current to the equipment exceeds a greater second threshold, a pulsed signal alternately places the semiconductor switch in conductive and non-conductive states so that the average current applied to the equipment is within an acceptable level. Should the current exceed an even greater third threshold, the semiconductor switch is immediately rendered non-conductive until the circuit is manually reset.

Abstract: An electrical current sensing apparatus includes a magnetic flux sensor which may be disposed adjacent to or within an opening in a conductor. The magnetic flux sensor may be disposed adjacent to a corner of the opening around which magnetic flux resulting from a current conducted through the conductor tends to concentrate. The magnetic flux sensor includes a Hall effect device having a flux sensitive surface. In one embodiment, the conductor has a tubular cylindrical side wall with an opening in which the magnetic flux sensor is disposed. In another embodiment, the conductor has a rectangular configuration with an opening in which the magnetic flux sensor is disposed. In another embodiment, the magnetic flux sensor is mounted on the surface of the conductor adjacent to the opening.

Abstract: An electrical sensing apparatus includes a conductor having longitudinally extending sections with parallel central axes and a connector section which extends between the longitudinally extending sections. The connector section has a central axis which extends parallel to the central axes of the longitudinally extending sections. A magnetic flux sensor is disposed adjacent to the connector section to detect variations in current conducted through the conductor. The magnetic flux sensor may be at least partially disposed in a slot in the connector section and have a flux sensitive side surface which extends perpendicular to a central axis of the connector section. The magnetic flux sensor may include an electrically insulating material which is at least partially enclosed by the connector section and a Hall effect device which is supported by the electrically insulating material. The electrically insulating material may be disposed in engagement with the connector section.