A Novel method for current measurement in an off-centered conductor of a circular array current probe

Abstract

This paper introduces a yokeless and contactless circular array current probe specifically designed for measuring current in an off-centered conductor. Unlike conventional approaches that require the current-carrying conductor to be centered within the circular array for optimal accuracy, the proposed method utilizes four magnetic sensors strategically placed on the circumference of a circular PCB. This unique configuration allows for precise current measurement even with an off-centered conductor of a smaller radius. To eliminate errors due to the off-centered conductor, there is a need for more sensors on the circular array by using the averaging method. The proposed method is independent of the conductor’s position and diameter, ensuring accurate current measurements using only the circular array of four magnetic sensors. A functional prototype was constructed and subjected to laboratory testing, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed approach. In experimental setup, the proposed method’s circular array current probe exhibited a current measurement error below 1%, affirming its reliability and suitability for practical applications.