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.

Abstract: An improved circuit interrupter having a solenoid in series with the line and load terminals with an armature operable to activate a trip mechanism within the circuit breaker upon experiencing current levels indicative of short circuit conditions. The traditional solenoid coil is replaced with a free form conductor stamped in a serpentine pattern with adjacent legs deformed slightly in opposite directions to permit an electromagnetic material to be disposed therebetween. Current is directed through the conductor progressively back and forth through the serpentine pattern and creates a magnetic field in the electromagnetic material which is sufficient to activate an armature when current levels approximate short circuit conditions.