X-ray tube

Abstract

An X-ray tube includes: a shell having a first cavity and a second cavity connected to each other along a first direction, the shell having a first side and a second side opposite to each other along the first direction, the first cavity being closer to the first side than the second cavity; an anode target plate disposed in the second cavity; a first rotor, at least a part of the first rotor being disposed in the first cavity, the first rotor being directly or indirectly connected to the anode target plate, the anode target plate and the first rotor rotating synchronously; a central axis extending along the first direction and penetrating the first rotor, the first rotor rotating around the central axis, the first rotor being directly or indirectly supported by the central axis; a first magnetic suspension assembly including: a first induction portion disposed outside the first side of the shell; a first suspension portion disposed on the first rotor, the first suspension portion being used to cooperate with the first induction portion to keep the rotation axis of the first rotor coincident with the axis of the central axis. The technical solution of the present application can effectively extend the service life of the X-ray tube.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of the present invention relate to the technical field of X-ray tubes, and in particular to an X-ray tube. Background Art

[0002] X-ray tubes are an indispensable core component in modern medical imaging technology. Their performance and stability are directly related to the accuracy of medical diagnosis and patient safety.

[0003] The principle of generating X-rays in an X-ray tube is that the filament generates electrons through heating. A large number of electrons are accelerated by the high-voltage electric field between the cathode and cathode to bombard the anode target disk and generate X-rays. The X-rays are reflected by the target surface and emitted from the window. After passing through the patient, they are received by the CT detector for imaging. The process of electrons bombarding the anode target disk will generate a large amount of heat. If the bombardment position remains unchanged, the bombarded area of ​​the anode target disk will generate a large amount of heat, and the heat generation rate is much greater than its heat dissipation rate. When the heat accumulates to a critical value, the bombarded area of ​​the target surface melts, causing the anode to fail. Therefore, in the prior art, X-ray tubes generally use rotating anodes, that is, the anode target disk is in a high-speed rotating state during operation, so that the position of the electron bombardment on the anode target disk continues to change, avoiding the phenomenon of local temperature increase and damage to the anode target disk.

[0004] Among the many types of X-ray tubes, CT tubes play a pivotal role in CT scanning with their unique working mechanism. Taking the rotating anode CT tube as an example, the CT tube will start and stop frequently during operation. In the process from static to rotation or from rotation to static, there is direct contact between the inner and outer bearings in the CT tube, and there is a large eccentricity, which causes more wear on one side of the inner and outer bearings, seriously affecting the service life of the X-ray tube. For example, when static, under the action of gravity, the inner bearing connected to the anode target and the rotor will contact the outer bearing, and the inner and outer bearings will squeeze each other more on the side facing the direction of gravity. This causes the rotating parts (such as the rotor and the anode target) to be unevenly stressed between the inner and outer bearings in the process from static to motion, and the side facing the direction of gravity will wear more severely, which ultimately affects the service life of the CT tube. Summary of the invention

[0005] The technical problem solved by the invention is how to improve the stability and durability of the X-ray tube.

[0006] To solve the above technical problems, an embodiment of the present invention provides an X-ray tube, comprising: a shell, having a first cavity and a second cavity connected to each other along a first direction, the shell having a first side and a second side opposite to each other along the first direction, the first cavity being closer to the first side than the second cavity; an anode target plate, arranged in the second cavity; a first rotor, at least a part of the first rotor being arranged in the first cavity, the first rotor being directly or indirectly connected to the anode target plate, and the anode target plate and the first rotor rotating synchronously; a central axis portion extending along the first direction and passing through the first rotor, the first rotor rotating around the central axis portion as an axis, and the first rotor being directly or indirectly supported by the central axis portion; a first magnetic suspension component, comprising: a first induction portion, arranged outside the first side of the shell; a first suspension portion, arranged on the first rotor, the first suspension portion being used to cooperate with the first induction portion to keep the rotation axis of the first rotor coincident with the axis of the central axis portion.

[0007] Optionally, a mounting groove is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the first rotor, and at least a portion of the first suspension portion is embedded in the mounting groove.

[0008] Optionally, the first suspension part is made of magnetic material.

[0009] Optionally, the first suspension portion is annular, and a shape of the mounting groove is adapted to the first suspension portion.

[0010] Optionally, the opening direction of the mounting groove is parallel to the first direction.

[0011] Optionally, the mounting groove is opened at an end portion of the first rotor facing the first side.

[0012] Optionally, along the radial direction of the first rotor, a projection of the first suspension portion and a projection of the first sensing portion at least partially overlap.

[0013] Optionally, a non-zero gap exists between the outer peripheral surface of the first rotor and the inner wall of the housing forming the first cavity.

[0014] Optionally, the X-ray tube further includes: an outer shaft portion, which is sleeved on the middle shaft portion and rotatable around the axis of the middle shaft portion, the outer shaft portion including a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion which are spaced apart, wherein the first connecting portion is used to connect to the first rotor, and the second connecting portion is used to connect to the anode target plate.

[0015] Optionally, the outer shaft portion includes an assembly hole extending along the first direction, at least a portion of the middle shaft portion is accommodated in the assembly hole, and a filling cavity is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the section of the middle shaft portion accommodated in the assembly hole and the inner wall of the outer shaft portion forming the assembly hole.

[0016] Optionally, the assembly hole is a blind hole and has an opening facing the second side, and at least a portion of the central axis portion extends into the assembly hole from the opening.

[0017] Optionally, a plurality of balls are arranged in the filling cavity, and the plurality of balls are arranged around the middle shaft portion along the circumference of the middle shaft portion.

[0018] Optionally, the filling cavity is filled with liquid metal, and the middle shaft portion, the outer shaft portion and the liquid metal in the filling cavity cooperate to form a liquid metal bearing.

[0019] Optionally, the X-ray tube further comprises: a sealing structure, wherein the sealing structure is disposed between the middle axis portion and the outer axis portion, and along the first direction, the sealing structure closes at least one end of the filling cavity.

[0020] Optionally, the first rotor is provided with a first through hole extending along the first direction, and the sealing structure includes: a first protrusion portion, arranged on the middle axis portion, for supporting the outer axis portion, the first protrusion portion is located in the first through hole, at least a portion of the surface of the first protrusion portion facing the second side is in contact with the outer axis portion, and the first protrusion portion closes one end of the filling cavity facing the first side.

[0021] Optionally, the first protrusion includes: a recessed portion, arranged on the surface of the first protrusion facing the second side; and a boss, arranged around the recessed portion, and an end surface of the boss facing the second side is in contact with the surface of the central axis facing the first side.

[0022] Optionally, the sealing structure further includes: a second protrusion, which is arranged on the central axis, the second protrusion is located in the assembly hole, the second protrusion is in contact with the inner wall of the assembly hole, and the second protrusion closes one end of the filling cavity toward the second side.

[0023] Optionally, the assembly hole is a through hole, and along the first direction, the central axis portion has a first end and a second end opposite to each other, the first end is connected to the shell at the first side, and the second end is connected to the shell at the second side through the assembly hole.

[0024] Optionally, the shell further has a third cavity, which is connected to the second cavity and is closer to the second side than the second cavity, and also includes: a second rotor, at least a portion of the second rotor is accommodated in the third cavity, the second rotor is directly or indirectly connected to the anode target plate, and the first rotor, the second rotor and the anode target plate rotate synchronously.

[0025] Optionally, the X-ray tube further includes: a first stator, which is closer to the second side than the first side, and the first stator is located outside the shell; a second stator, which is arranged opposite to the first stator along the first direction, and the second stator is closer to the second side than the first stator; wherein, along the first direction, at least a portion of the second rotor is located between the first stator and the second stator, and the first stator and the second stator cooperate to suspend the second rotor in the third cavity.

[0026] Compared with the prior art, the technical solution of the embodiment of the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0027] By adopting the technical solution of the embodiment of the present invention, the first magnetic suspension assembly is provided, so that the first rotor (and the anode target plate connected thereto) can be suspended and stably rotated. In particular, during the start-up and stop-down process of the X-ray tube, the first magnetic suspension assembly can make the rotation axis of the rotating parts (such as the first rotor and the anode target plate) in the X-ray tube always coincide with the axis of the central axis, effectively avoiding the rotation parts being off-axis due to the influence of gravity during the start-up and stop process of the traditional X-ray tube, and the occurrence of extrusion, collision and wear between the rotating parts and the central axis, thereby improving the service life and stability of the X-ray tube.

[0028] Furthermore, the first suspension part is made of magnetic material, which can generate effective magnetic force with the first induction part to achieve a suspension effect. The annular design enables the first suspension part to evenly distribute the magnetic force and avoid local wear. The opening direction of the installation groove is parallel to the first direction, which facilitates the installation and removal of the first suspension part.

[0029] Furthermore, a non-zero gap exists between the outer peripheral surface of the first rotor and the inner wall of the housing forming the first cavity, which helps to reduce friction, reduce wear, and improve the operating efficiency and service life of the X-ray tube.

[0030] Furthermore, the filling cavity is filled with liquid metal to form a liquid metal bearing. The liquid metal bearing has excellent lubrication and heat dissipation properties and can significantly improve the operating efficiency and stability of the X-ray tube. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an X-ray tube according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the structure shown along the AA direction;

[0033] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A partial enlarged view of the middle area B;

[0034] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the structure shown;

[0035] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of another X-ray tube according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the structure shown along the CC direction;

[0037] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A partial enlarged view of the middle area D;

[0038] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 An exploded view of the structure shown;

[0039] Fig. 9 It is a partial enlarged view of the filling cavity in a variation of an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] As mentioned in the background art, during the start-up and shutdown process of the existing X-ray tube, the initial position of the rotor may deviate from the predetermined rotation axis, resulting in severe wear inside the X-ray tube.

[0041] In order to solve this technical problem, an embodiment of the present invention provides an X-ray tube, comprising: a shell, having a first cavity and a second cavity connected to each other along a first direction, the shell having a first side and a second side opposite to each other along the first direction, the first cavity being closer to the first side than the second cavity; an anode target plate, arranged in the second cavity; a first rotor, at least a part of the first rotor being arranged in the first cavity, the first rotor being directly or indirectly connected to the anode target plate, and the anode target plate and the first rotor rotating synchronously; a central axis portion extending along the first direction and passing through the first rotor, the first rotor rotating around the central axis portion as an axis, and the first rotor being directly or indirectly supported by the central axis portion; a first magnetic suspension component, comprising: a first induction portion, arranged outside the first side of the shell; a first suspension portion, arranged on the first rotor, the first suspension portion being used to cooperate with the first induction portion to keep the rotation axis of the first rotor coincident with the axis of the central axis portion.

[0042] By adopting the technical solution of the embodiment of the present application, the first magnetic suspension component is introduced to enable the first rotor (and the anode target disk connected thereto) to be suspended and stably rotated. In particular, during the start-up and stop process of the X-ray tube, the first magnetic suspension component can make the rotation axis of the rotating component in the X-ray tube always coincide with the axis of the central axis, effectively avoiding the extrusion, collision and wear between the rotating components (such as the first rotor and the anode target disk) and the central axis caused by gravity during the start-up and stop process of the traditional X-ray tube, thereby improving the service life and stability of the X-ray tube.

[0043] In order to make the above-mentioned objects, features and beneficial effects of the present invention more obvious and easy to understand, specific embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an X-ray tube 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The structure shown is a cross-sectional view along the AA direction.

[0045] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 The X-ray tube 100 may include: a housing 1, having a first cavity 101 and a second cavity 102 connected to each other along a first direction D1, the housing 1 having a first side 11 and a second side 12 opposite to each other along the first direction D1, the first cavity 101 being closer to the first side 11 than the second cavity 102; an anode target plate 2, disposed in the second cavity 102; a first rotor 3, at least a portion of the first rotor 3 being disposed in the first cavity 101, the first rotor 3 being directly or indirectly connected to the anode target plate 2, the anode target plate 2 and the The first rotor 3 rotates synchronously; the middle axis portion 4 extends along the first direction D1 and penetrates the first rotor 3, the first rotor 3 rotates around the middle axis portion 4, and the first rotor 3 is directly or indirectly supported by the middle axis portion 4; the first magnetic suspension component 5 includes: a first sensing portion 51, which is arranged on the outside of the first side 11 of the shell 1; a first suspension portion 52, which is arranged on the first rotor 3, and the first suspension portion 52 is used to cooperate with the first sensing portion 51 to keep the rotation axis of the first rotor 3 coincident with the axis of the middle axis portion 4.

[0046] The X-ray tube 100 (also called an X-ray tube or a CT tube) can be used in X-ray machines in the medical field, such as disease detection instruments such as CT machines. With the development of technology, CT machines have been popularized with high resolution and intuitive and accurate diagnostic effects, and have been widely used in the medical field. The X-ray tube 100 can be used as a core component in a CT machine and is widely used to generate X-rays in practice. Therefore, whether the technology of the X-ray tube 100 is perfect directly affects the working effect of the CT machine.

[0047] In the X-ray tube 100, the principle of generating X-rays is that the filament in the cathode head 200 generates heat to generate electrons. A large number of electrons are accelerated by the high-voltage electric field between the cathode head 200 and the anode target disk 2 to bombard the anode target disk 2 and generate X-rays. The X-rays are reflected by the target surface of the anode target disk 2 and emitted from the electron emission window 13. After passing through the patient, they are received by the CT detector for imaging. The process of electron bombardment of the anode target disk 2 will generate a large amount of heat. If the bombardment position remains unchanged, the bombarded area of ​​the anode target disk 2 will generate a large amount of heat, and the heat generation rate is much greater than its heat dissipation rate. When the heat accumulates to a critical value, the bombarded area of ​​the target surface melts, causing the anode to fail. Therefore, in the prior art, the X-ray tube 100 generally adopts a rotating anode, that is, the anode target disk 2 is in a rotating state during operation, so that the position of the electron bombardment on the anode target disk 2 changes continuously, avoiding the phenomenon of local temperature rise and damage to the anode target disk.

[0048] Furthermore, the housing 1 defines a first cavity 101 and a second cavity 102 that are interconnected to accommodate some functional components of the X-ray tube 100 .

[0049] Furthermore, when the X-ray tube 100 is in operation, the first cavity 101 and the second cavity 102 (and Figures 5 to 8 The third cavity 103) in the embodiment is a vacuum cavity.

[0050] Furthermore, the housing 1 may include a main body 14 and a cover 15 , wherein the main body 14 is used to define the boundary between the first cavity 101 and the second cavity 102 , and the cover 15 is used to close the opening of the main body 14 in the first direction D1 to ensure the airtightness of the first cavity 101 and the second cavity 102 .

[0051] In some embodiments, the anode target disk 2 may be disposed in the second cavity 102. Further, the target surface of the anode target disk 2 faces the second side 12 of the housing 1. Further, at least a portion of the cathode head 200 extends from the outside of the housing 1 into the second cavity 102 and is capable of emitting an electron beam toward the target surface of the anode target disk 2 to generate X-rays.

[0052] Furthermore, the X-ray tube 100 further includes a first rotor 3 , and the first rotor 3 is used to drive the anode target plate 2 to rotate. Furthermore, at least a portion of the first rotor 3 is disposed in the first cavity 101 .

[0053] In some embodiments, another portion of the first rotor 3 extends from the first cavity 101 into the second cavity 102 and is directly or indirectly connected to the anode target disk 2 to drive the anode target disk 2 to rotate synchronously with the first rotor 3 .

[0054] Furthermore, the X-ray tube 100 may further include a stator portion 33 , which is sleeved outside the wall of the housing 1 forming the first cavity 101 , and the stator portion 33 is used to drive the rotor 3 to rotate.

[0055] In some embodiments, the stator portion 33 may include a stator core 331 and a stator coil 332 wound around the stator core 331. When the stator coil 332 is energized, a magnetic field is generated around the stator core 331 according to the principle of electromagnetic induction. This magnetic field interacts with the first rotor 3 to generate a driving force for driving the first rotor 3 to rotate. Furthermore, the stator core 331 is usually made of magnetic material to enhance and guide the magnetic field.

[0056] In some embodiments, the first rotor 3 may be composed of an iron core and a copper sleeve structure.

[0057] Furthermore, the middle shaft portion 4 extends along the first direction D1, and the first rotor 3 can rotate around the middle shaft portion 4. In other words, the middle shaft portion 4 provides a reference axis of rotation for the first rotor 3 to ensure the stability of the rotation of the first rotor 3.

[0058] Furthermore, the first rotor 3 is directly or indirectly supported on the central axis 4. A non-zero gap can exist between the end of the first rotor 3 away from the first direction D1 and the bottom wall of the first cavity 101, thereby avoiding sliding friction between the first rotor 3 and the bottom wall of the first cavity 101, and reducing the X-ray tube 100.

[0059] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube 100 further includes a first magnetic suspension assembly 5, which is used to keep the rotation axis of the first rotor 3 coincident with the axis of the central axis 4. Therefore, during the start and stop process of the X-ray tube 100, the first magnetic suspension assembly 5 can prevent the first rotor 3 from deviating from the rotation axis in a stable rotation state, thereby preventing the first rotor 3 from colliding or rubbing with other structures of the X-ray tube 100 (for example, the central axis 4).

[0060] More specifically, the first magnetic suspension component 5 may include a first induction portion 51 and a first suspension portion 52. The first induction portion 51 is disposed outside the first side 11 of the housing 1, and is used to generate a magnetic field that causes the first suspension portion 52 to suspend in the first cavity 101.

[0061] In some embodiments, the first induction part 51 may further include a first induction core 511 and a first induction coil 512 wound around the first induction core 511. Thus, the first induction coil 512 can generate a magnetic field after being energized, and the strength and direction of the magnetic field can be precisely controlled by adjusting the direction and magnitude of the current in the first induction coil 512. The magnetic field interacts with the first suspension part 52, thereby generating a force that keeps the first rotor 3 suspended.

[0062] Furthermore, the first suspension part 52 is disposed on the first rotor 3, corresponding to the first induction part 51, and can respond to the magnetic field generated by the first induction part 51. When the first induction part 51 is energized to generate a magnetic field, the magnetic field can cause the first suspension part 52 to suspend in the first cavity 101, and further drive the rotor 3 to suspend.

[0063] Furthermore, in the suspended state, there is a non-zero gap between the first rotor 3 and the inner wall of the housing 1 forming the first cavity 101 , and the rotation axis of the first rotor 3 coincides with the axis of the middle shaft portion 4 .

[0064] In some embodiments, the suspension state of the first rotor 3 can be dynamically adjusted by adjusting the direction, magnitude and other parameters of the current input into the first induction coil 512 to ensure that the first rotor 3 always maintains stable suspension during the rotation process.

[0065] In some embodiments, the first floating portion 52 may be, for example, a permanent magnet, an electromagnet, or other components capable of interacting with a magnetic field.

[0066] In some embodiments, along the first direction D1, the relative position of the first magnetic suspension component 5 and the stator portion 33 is adjustable. For example, the first magnetic suspension component 5 can be closer to or away from the second cavity 102 than the stator portion 33 .

[0067] As described above, the first rotor 3 (and the anode target plate 2 connected thereto) can be suspended and stably rotated by the arrangement of the first magnetic suspension assembly 5. In particular, during the start-up and stop-down process of the X-ray tube 100, the first magnetic suspension assembly 5 can make the rotation axis of the rotating components (such as the first rotor 3 and the anode target plate 2) in the X-ray tube 100 always coincide with the axis of the central axis 4, effectively avoiding the rotation components from being off-axis due to the influence of gravity during the start-up and stop-down process of the X-ray tube 100, and preventing the rotation components from being squeezed, collided and worn with the central axis, thereby improving the service life and stability of the X-ray tube 100.

[0068] Continue to refer Figure 2 , the outer circumferential surface of the first rotor 3 is provided with a mounting groove 31, and at least a portion of the first suspension portion 52 is embedded in the mounting groove 31. Therefore, the design that at least a portion of the first suspension portion 52 is embedded in the mounting groove 31 can stably connect the first suspension portion 52 and the first rotor 3 together, ensuring that the magnetic field force received by the first suspension portion 52 can be stably transmitted to the first rotor 3 so that the first rotor 3 is stably suspended.

[0069] In some embodiments, the first suspension part 52 is made of a magnetic material. Therefore, the first suspension part 52 made of a magnetic material can effectively interact with the magnetic field generated by the first sensing part 51 .

[0070] In some embodiments, the selection of magnetic material is generally based on the material's magnetic permeability, saturation magnetic induction intensity and other properties to ensure that the first suspension portion 52 can generate sufficient suspension force to enable the first rotor 3 to be stably suspended.

[0071] In some embodiments, the first suspension portion 52 is annular, and the shape of the mounting groove 31 is adapted to the first suspension portion 52 .

[0072] Specifically, the annular first suspension portion 52 can evenly and symmetrically surround the outer circumference of the first rotor 3, thereby ensuring that the suspension forces on the first rotor 3 in each radial direction are balanced, and thus the first rotor 3 can maintain a stable suspension state during the rotation process. At the same time, the annular first suspension portion 52 is also easier to cooperate with the installation groove 31, simplifying the installation process.

[0073] Furthermore, the shape of the mounting groove 31 is adapted to the first suspension portion 52. For example, the profile, size and depth of the mounting groove 31 can be customized according to the specific shape and size of the first suspension portion 52. Thus, it can be ensured that the first suspension portion 52 can be accurately embedded in the mounting groove 31 to form a tight and stable connection.

[0074] In some embodiments, the opening direction of the mounting groove 31 may be parallel to the first direction D1 , for example, the opening direction may be in the same direction or in the opposite direction to the first direction D1 .

[0075] exist Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the opening direction of the mounting groove 31 may be in the opposite direction of the first direction D1. Further, along the first direction D1, the first rotor 3 may include a first section 301 and a second section 302 connected to each other, and the second section 302 is closer to the anode target plate 2 than the first section 301. Along a plane perpendicular to the first direction D1, the area enclosed by the outer contour of the projection of the second section 302 is larger than the area enclosed by the outer contour of the projection of the first section 301, and the mounting groove 31 is opened in the portion of the second section 302 protruding from the first section 301. In this scenario, the annular first suspension portion 52 can be first sleeved on one end of the first section 301 away from the second section 302, and move along the first direction D1 until it is inserted into the mounting groove 31. As a result, the installation process of the first suspension portion 52 can be further simplified. In addition, the first suspension portion 52 can also be tightly connected to the first rotor 3.

[0076] In some embodiments, the mounting groove 31 may be provided at the end of the first rotor 3 facing the first side 11. Further, the opening of the mounting groove 31 may be provided at the end surface of the first rotor 3 facing the first side 11 and open in the opposite direction of the first direction D1. Thus, the first suspension portion 52 can be easily inserted into the mounting groove 31, simplifying the assembly process of the X-ray tube 100.

[0077] In some embodiments, along the radial direction of the first rotor 3, the projection of the first suspension portion 52 and the projection of the first sensing portion 51 at least partially overlap. Thus, the interaction between the first suspension portion 52 and the first sensing portion 51 is more direct and efficient, which helps to reduce energy loss and improve the overall working efficiency of the X-ray tube 100.

[0078] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 2 There is a non-zero gap between the outer peripheral surface of the first rotor 3 and the inner wall of the housing 1 forming the first cavity 101. Therefore, the first rotor 3 does not directly contact the inner wall of the housing 1 during rotation, thereby avoiding wear, noise and energy loss caused by friction.

[0079] Combination Figures 2 to 4 The X-ray tube 100 may further include: an outer shaft portion 6, which is sleeved on the middle shaft portion 4 and can rotate around the axis of the middle shaft portion 4, and the outer shaft portion 6 includes a first connecting portion 61 and a second connecting portion 62 arranged at intervals, wherein the first connecting portion 61 is used to connect with the first rotor 3, and the second connecting portion 62 is used to connect with the anode target plate 2.

[0080] Specifically, the first connection portion 61 and the second connection portion 62 may be formed to protrude outward from the outer circumferential surface of the outer shaft portion 6 .

[0081] Further, the first rotor 3 and the anode target plate 2 are connected and rotate synchronously through the outer shaft portion 6. The first connecting portion 61 is connected to the first rotor 3. The first rotor 3 may also include a coupling portion 34 formed at one end of the rotor 3 facing the first direction D1. The coupling portion 34 protrudes outward from the outer circumferential surface of the first rotor 3 and forms a mounting platform to facilitate connection with the first connecting portion 61.

[0082] In some embodiments, the first rotor 3 and the first connecting portion 61 may be connected by fixing members such as screws.

[0083] In some embodiments, the anode target plate 2 and the second connecting portion 62 may also be connected by fixing members such as screws.

[0084] In some embodiments, the anode target disk 2 may have a through-hole structure 21 extending along the first direction D1 , and at least a portion of the outer shaft portion 6 may pass through the through-hole structure 21 .

[0085] In some embodiments, the outer peripheral surface of the outer shaft portion 6 may be closely fitted with the inner wall of the through-hole structure 21 to increase the stability of the connection between the outer shaft portion 6 and the anode target plate 2 .

[0086] In some embodiments, a non-zero gap may exist between the outer circumferential surface of the outer shaft portion 6 and the inner wall of the through-hole structure 21 to reduce heat transfer from the anode target disk 2 to the first rotor 3 .

[0087] Furthermore, the outer shaft portion 6 includes an assembly hole 63 extending along the first direction D1, at least a portion of the middle shaft portion 4 is accommodated in the assembly hole 63, and a filling cavity is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the section of the middle shaft portion 4 accommodated in the assembly hole 63 and the inner wall of the outer shaft portion 6 forming the assembly hole 63.

[0088] In some embodiments, reference Figures 2 to 4 The assembly hole 63 may be a blind hole having an opening toward the second side 12 , and at least a portion of the middle shaft portion 4 extends into the assembly hole 63 from the opening.

[0089] Furthermore, there is a non-zero gap between the outer surface of the section of the middle shaft portion 4 accommodated in the assembly hole 63 and the inner wall of the assembly hole 63 to form a filling cavity. Thus, the contact area between the middle shaft portion 4 and the outer shaft portion 6 can be further reduced to avoid excessive wear between the middle shaft portion 4 and the outer shaft portion 6.

[0090] In some embodiments, reference Fig. 9 , a plurality of balls 107 may be arranged in the filling cavity. Thus, the balls 107 can reduce the friction between the middle shaft portion 4 and the outer shaft portion 6, and the outer shaft portion 6 can improve the stability of rotation.

[0091] Furthermore, the balls 107 are distributed along the circumference of the middle shaft 4, and the plurality of balls 107 form a ring-shaped or approximately ring-shaped layout surrounding the middle shaft 4, which helps to ensure that the outer shaft 6 can be evenly supported and lubricated when rotating relative to the middle shaft 4, thereby reducing friction and wear, improving the overall operating efficiency of the X-ray tube 100 and extending the life of the X-ray tube 100. In this scenario, the first magnetic suspension assembly 5 can also prevent the balls 107 on one side from being damaged due to high pressure during the start and stop process of the X-ray tube 100.

[0092] In some embodiments, the filling cavity is filled with liquid metal 106, and the middle shaft portion 4, the outer shaft portion 6 and the liquid metal 106 in the filling cavity cooperate to form a liquid metal bearing.

[0093] Specifically, liquid metal 106 is filled in the filling cavity between the outer peripheral surface of the middle shaft portion 4 and the inner wall of the assembly hole 63. When the middle shaft portion 4 rotates relative to the outer shaft portion 6, the liquid metal 106 acts as a lubricant and supporting medium, which can significantly reduce the friction and wear between the two and improve the smoothness of rotation.

[0094] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube may further include: a sealing structure 7, the sealing structure 7 is disposed between the middle shaft portion 4 and the outer shaft portion 6, and along the first direction D1, the sealing structure 7 closes at least one end of the filling cavity. Thus, the sealing structure 7 can prevent the lubricating structure (such as the aforementioned liquid metal 106 or ball bearing 107) contained in the filling cavity from accidentally leaking, thereby causing damage to the X-ray tube 100.

[0095] Furthermore, the first rotor 3 is provided with a first through hole 32 extending along the first direction D1, and the sealing structure 7 includes: a first protrusion 71, which is arranged on the middle shaft portion 4 and is used to support the outer shaft portion 6, the first protrusion 71 is located in the first through hole 32, at least a portion of the surface of the first protrusion 71 facing the second side 12 is in contact with the outer shaft portion 6, and the first protrusion 71 closes one end of the filling cavity facing the first side 11.

[0096] In a specific embodiment, referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the filling cavity is filled with liquid metal 106. The first protrusion 71 is disposed on the side of the outer shaft portion 6 away from the first direction D1. Further, the first protrusion 71 closes one end of the filling cavity toward the first side 11 (for example, the opposite direction of the first direction D1) to prevent accidental leakage of the liquid metal 106.

[0097] In some embodiments, the coupling portion 34 and the first protrusion 71 of the first rotor 3 are both connected to the surface of the first connection portion 61 facing the opposite direction of the first direction D1. The coupling portion 34 and the first connection portion 61 are fixedly connected to ensure the synchronous rotation between the first rotor 3 and the outer shaft portion 6. The first connection portion 61 and the first protrusion 71 are movably connected. When the first rotor 3 drives the outer shaft portion 6 and the anode target plate 2 to rotate with the middle shaft portion 4 as the axis, the first connection portion 61 also rotates relative to the first protrusion 71, and there is sliding friction between the two.

[0098] In other words, when the X-ray tube 100 is in operation, the middle shaft portion 4 and the first protrusion 71 disposed on the middle shaft portion 4 are fixed structures and do not rotate with the rotation of the first rotor 3, while the outer shaft portion 6 supported on the first protrusion 71 rotates with the rotation of the first rotor 3. In this scenario, the liquid metal 106 filled in the filling cavity can greatly reduce the sliding friction between the first protrusion 71 and the outer shaft portion 6.

[0099] Furthermore, the first protrusion 71 includes: a recessed portion 711, which is arranged on the surface of the first protrusion 71 facing the second side 12; and a boss 712, which is arranged around the recessed portion 711, and the end surface of the boss 712 facing the second side 12 is in contact with the surface of the central axis portion 4 facing the first side 11.

[0100] In some embodiments, the recessed portion 711 is annular and is disposed around the section of the middle shaft portion 4 that is accommodated in the assembly hole 63. The opening of the recessed portion 711 faces the first direction D1 and is connected to the filling cavity. Furthermore, the liquid metal 106 filled in the filling cavity is also filled in the recessed portion 711. Thus, the contact area of ​​the sliding friction between the first protrusion 71 and the outer shaft portion 6 can be further reduced, which is beneficial to prolonging the service life of the X-ray tube 100.

[0101] Furthermore, the boss 712 may also be annular, and the boss 712 is arranged around the periphery of the recess 711. Furthermore, the boss 712 is suitable for forming the wall of the recess 711. In this scenario, the middle axis portion 4 is supported on the end face of the boss 712 facing the first direction D1. Thus, through the recess 711 and the boss 712, the area of ​​the physical connection between the outer axis portion 6 and the middle axis portion 4 is reduced, the sliding friction between the two is reduced, and the wear between the internal components of the X-ray tube 100 is alleviated, thereby extending the service life of the X-ray tube 100.

[0102] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of another X-ray tube according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] Figure 5 In the embodiment shown Figures 1 to 4 The same structures and features as those in the embodiments shown can be referred to in the above related descriptions. Figure 5 In the embodiment shown Figures 1 to 4 The different or additional structures and features of the illustrated embodiments are described.

[0104] Combination Figures 5 to 8 In some embodiments, the assembly hole 63 is a through hole, and along the first direction D1, the central axis portion 4 has a first end 41 and a second end 42 opposite to each other, the first end 41 is connected to the housing 1 at the first side 11, and the second end 42 is connected to the housing 1 at the second side 12 through the assembly hole 63. Thus, by connecting both ends of the central axis portion 4 to the housing 1, the structural stability of the entire X-ray tube 100 can be enhanced, and vibration and noise can be reduced.

[0105] Specifically, the first end 41 is connected to the housing 1 at the first side 11. Further, the connection between the first end 41 and the housing 1 can be achieved by bolts, welding, press-fitting or other mechanical connection methods.

[0106] Furthermore, the second end 42 passes through the assembly hole 63 and is connected to the housing 1 at the second side 12. In this scenario, the middle shaft portion 4 extends from the first side 11 of the housing 1 to the second side 12, and its second end 42 is also fixedly connected to the housing 1. Thus, the middle shaft portion 4 can provide a more stable rotation axis for the rotating components in the X-ray tube (such as the first rotor 3, the anode target plate 2, and the outer shaft portion 6), so that the operation of the X-ray tube 100 is more stable.

[0107] In some embodiments, reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the sealing structure 7 further includes: a second protrusion 72, which is arranged on the central axis portion 4, the second protrusion 72 is located in the assembly hole 63, the second protrusion 72 is in contact with the inner wall of the assembly hole 63, and the second protrusion 72 closes the end of the filling cavity toward the second side 12. Thus, the second protrusion 72 can prevent the liquid metal 106 filled in the filling cavity from leaking from one end of the filling cavity along the first direction D1. In this scenario, the first protrusion 71 and the second protrusion 72 respectively form the boundaries of the two ends of the filling cavity along the first direction D1 to ensure that the liquid metal 106 can be accommodated in the filling cavity without leakage.

[0108] Further, combined with Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 The shell 1 also has a third cavity 103, which is connected to the second cavity 102. The third cavity 103 is closer to the second side 12 than the second cavity 102. The X-ray tube 100 also includes: a second rotor 8, at least a part of the second rotor 8 is accommodated in the third cavity 103, the second rotor 8 is directly or indirectly connected to the anode target disk 2, and the first rotor 3, the second rotor 8 and the anode target disk 2 rotate synchronously.

[0109] Specifically, the second rotor 8 is directly or indirectly connected to the anode target disk 2 to ensure that the rotation of the second rotor 8 can drive the rotation of the anode target disk 2. Further, the first rotor 3, the second rotor 8 and the anode target disk 2 rotate synchronously. Thus, the first rotor 3 and the second rotor 8 are directly or indirectly connected to both sides of the anode target disk 2 along the first direction D1, respectively, which can make the rotation of the anode target disk 2 more stable and avoid the rotation of the anode target disk 2 deviating from the predetermined axis to cause wear between components.

[0110] Furthermore, the first rotor 3 and the second rotor 8 are connected to the anode target plate 2 via the outer shaft portion 6 , respectively.

[0111] In some embodiments, reference Figure 6 and Figure 7The second rotor 8 is connected to one end of the outer shaft portion 6 facing the first direction D1. Further, the second rotor 8 and the outer shaft portion 6 can be fixedly connected by threaded connection, welding, etc. to ensure that the outer shaft portion 6 can rotate synchronously with the second rotor 8.

[0112] In some embodiments, the second rotor 8 itself can rotate at the same speed as the first rotor 3 . In this scenario, the first rotor 3 and the second rotor 8 can simultaneously input torque to the anode target disk 2 along the first direction D1 to ensure that the anode target disk 2 runs smoothly and efficiently.

[0113] In some embodiments, the second rotor 8 can also serve to suspend the rotating components in the X-ray tube 100 (such as the anode target plate 2, the first rotor 3, the outer shaft 6 and the second rotor 8), minimize the contact area with the fixed components (such as the middle shaft 4 and the housing 1), thereby reducing wear and extending the service life of the X-ray tube 100.

[0114] Specifically, the X-ray tube may further include: a second magnetic suspension assembly 9, including: a second induction portion 92, disposed outside the second side 12 of the housing 1; a second suspension portion 91, disposed on the second rotor 8, the second suspension portion 91 being used to cooperate with the second induction portion 92 to keep the rotation axis of the second rotor 8 coincident with the central axis of the housing 1. Thus, the second magnetic suspension assembly 9 can make the second rotor 8 suspend in the third cavity 103 in the radial direction.

[0115] For the structural features and working principle of the second magnetic suspension assembly 9, please refer to the above Figures 1 to 4 The relevant description about the first magnetic suspension component 5 in the description of the illustrated embodiment will not be repeated here.

[0116] Further, combined with Figure 6 and Figure 8 The X-ray tube 100 may further include: a first stator 104, which is closer to the second side 12 than the first side 11, and the first stator 104 is located outside the housing 1; a second stator 105, which is arranged opposite to the first stator 104 along the first direction D1, and the second stator 105 is closer to the second side 12 than the first stator 104; wherein, along the first direction D1, the second rotor 8 further includes a third suspension portion 81, the third suspension portion 81 is located between the first stator 104 and the second stator 105, and the first stator 104, the second stator 105 and the third suspension portion 81 cooperate to suspend the second rotor 8 in the third cavity 103. Therefore, through the cooperation of the first stator 104, the second stator 105 and the third suspension portion 81, the second rotor 8 can be suspended in the third cavity 103 at least along the first direction D1.

[0117] In some embodiments, the housing 1 may further include an extension 16, which is used to define a boundary of the third cavity 103. Further, the extension 16 and the side of the extension 16 facing the first direction D1 are suitable for forming the second side 12 of the housing 1. Further, the shape of the extension 16 may be adapted to the shape of the second rotor 8, and there is a non-zero gap between the inner wall of the extension 16 forming the third cavity 103 and the second rotor 8 to avoid mutual friction.

[0118] From the above, by adopting the technical solution of the present application, the first rotor 3 (and the anode target disk 2 connected thereto) can be suspended and stably rotated by setting the first magnetic suspension assembly 5. In particular, during the start-up and stop-down process of the X-ray tube 100, the first magnetic suspension assembly 5 can make the rotation axis of the rotating parts (such as the first rotor 3 and the anode target disk 2) in the X-ray tube 100 always coincide with the axis of the central axis 4, effectively avoiding the rotation parts from being off-axis due to the influence of gravity during the start-up and stop process of the X-ray tube 100, and preventing the rotation parts from being squeezed, collided and worn with the central axis 4, thereby improving the service life and stability of the X-ray tube 100.

[0119] Furthermore, the first suspension part 52 is made of magnetic material and can generate effective magnetic force with the first sensing part 51 to achieve a suspension effect. The annular design enables the first suspension part 52 to evenly distribute the magnetic force and avoid local wear. The opening direction of the mounting groove 31 is parallel to the first direction D1, which facilitates the installation and removal of the first suspension part 52.

[0120] Furthermore, a non-zero gap exists between the outer circumferential surface of the first rotor 3 and the inner wall of the housing 1 forming the first cavity 101 , which helps to reduce friction, reduce wear, and improve the operating efficiency and service life of the X-ray tube 100 .

[0121] Furthermore, the filling cavity is filled with liquid metal 106 to form a liquid metal bearing. The liquid metal bearing has excellent lubrication and heat dissipation properties, and can significantly improve the operating efficiency and stability of the X-ray tube 100.

[0122] It should be understood that the term "and / or" herein is merely an association relationship describing associated objects, indicating that three relationships may exist, for example, A and / or B, which may represent: A exists alone, A and B exist at the same time, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " herein indicates that the associated objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. As used herein, unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "or" covers all possible combinations unless it is not feasible. For example, if a component is stated to include A or B, then unless otherwise expressly stated or not feasible, the component may include A, or B, or A and B. As a second example, if a component is stated to include A, B, or C, then unless otherwise expressly stated or not feasible, the component may include A, or B, or C, or A and B, or A and C, or B and C, or A and B and C. The "multiple" appearing in the embodiments of the present application refers to two or more.

[0123] The relational terms appearing in the embodiments of the present application, such as first, second, etc., are only used to distinguish an entity or operation from another entity or operation, and do not require or imply any actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. In addition, the words "include", "have" and "comprise" and other similar forms are intended to be equivalent in meaning, and are open-ended, and one or more items behind any of these words are not meant to be an exhaustive list of such one or more items, or mean to be limited to one or more items listed. In the accompanying drawings and the specification, exemplary embodiments have been disclosed. However, many changes and modifications can be made to these embodiments. Therefore, although specific terms have been adopted, they are only used in a general and descriptive sense, not for the purpose of limitation.

[0124] Although the present invention is disclosed as above, the present invention is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection scope of the present invention shall be subject to the scope defined by the claims.

Claims

1. An X-ray tube, characterized in that: include: A housing having a first cavity and a second cavity connected to each other along a first direction, the housing having a first side and a second side opposite to each other along the first direction, the first cavity being closer to the first side than the second cavity; an anode target plate, disposed in the second cavity; A first rotor, at least a portion of which is disposed in the first cavity, the first rotor is directly or indirectly connected to the anode target disk, and the anode target disk and the first rotor rotate synchronously; a middle shaft portion extending along the first direction and penetrating the first rotor, the first rotor rotating around the middle shaft portion as an axis, and the first rotor being directly or indirectly supported by the middle shaft portion; The first magnetic suspension assembly comprises: A first sensing portion, disposed outside the first side of the housing; A first suspension portion, disposed on the first rotor, the first suspension portion being used to cooperate with the first sensing portion to keep the rotation axis of the first rotor coincident with the axis of the middle shaft portion; The housing further comprises a third cavity, the third cavity is communicated with the second cavity, the third cavity is closer to the second side than the second cavity, and further comprises: a second rotor, at least a portion of which is accommodated in the third cavity, the second rotor is directly or indirectly connected to the anode target disk, and the first rotor, the second rotor and the anode target disk rotate synchronously; The second magnetic suspension assembly comprises: a second sensing portion, disposed outside the second side of the housing; a second suspension portion, disposed on the second rotor, the second suspension portion being used to cooperate with the second sensing portion to keep the rotation axis of the second rotor coincident with the central axis of the housing; a first stator, which is closer to the second side than the first side and is located outside the housing; a second stator, along the first direction, the second stator and the first stator are arranged opposite to each other, and the second stator is closer to the second side than the first stator; Wherein, along the first direction, the second rotor further includes a third suspension portion, the third suspension portion is located between the first stator and the second stator, and the first stator, the second stator and the third suspension portion cooperate to make the second rotor suspended in the third cavity at least along the first direction.

2. The X-ray tube according to claim 1, characterized in that An installation groove is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the first rotor, and at least a portion of the first suspension portion is embedded in the installation groove.

3. The X-ray tube according to claim 2, characterized in that The first suspension part is made of magnetic material; and / or The first suspension portion is annular, and the shape of the mounting groove is adapted to the first suspension portion; and / or The opening direction of the mounting groove is parallel to the first direction; and / or The mounting groove is formed at an end portion of the first rotor facing the first side.

4. The X-ray tube according to claim 1, characterized in that Along the radial direction of the first rotor, a projection of the first suspension portion and a projection of the first sensing portion at least partially overlap.

5. The X-ray tube according to claim 1, characterized in that A non-zero gap exists between the outer circumferential surface of the first rotor and the inner wall of the housing forming the first cavity.

6. The X-ray tube according to claim 1, characterized in that Also includes: The outer shaft portion is sleeved on the middle shaft portion and can rotate around the axis of the middle shaft portion. The outer shaft portion includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion that are spaced apart, wherein the first connecting portion is used to connect with the first rotor, and the second connecting portion is used to connect with the anode target plate.

7. The X-ray tube according to claim 6, characterized in that The outer shaft portion includes an assembly hole extending along the first direction, at least a portion of the middle shaft portion is accommodated in the assembly hole, and a filling cavity is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the middle shaft portion accommodated in the assembly hole and the inner wall of the outer shaft portion forming the assembly hole.

8. The X-ray tube according to claim 7, characterized in that A plurality of balls are arranged in the filling cavity, and the plurality of balls are arranged around the middle shaft portion along the circumference of the middle shaft portion.

9. The X-ray tube according to claim 7, characterized in that The filling cavity is filled with liquid metal, and the middle shaft portion, the outer shaft portion and the liquid metal in the filling cavity cooperate to form a liquid metal bearing.

10. The X-ray tube according to claim 7, characterized in that Also includes: A sealing structure is provided between the middle shaft portion and the outer shaft portion, and along the first direction, the sealing structure closes at least one end of the filling cavity.

11. The X-ray tube according to claim 10, characterized in that The first rotor is provided with a first through hole extending along the first direction, and the sealing structure comprises: A first protrusion is arranged on the middle shaft portion and is used to support the outer shaft portion. The first protrusion is located in the first through hole. At least a portion of the surface of the first protrusion facing the second side is in contact with the outer shaft portion, and the first protrusion closes one end of the filling cavity facing the first side.

12. The X-ray tube according to claim 11, characterized in that The first protrusion comprises: a recessed portion, disposed on a surface of the first protrusion facing the second side; The boss is arranged around the recessed portion, and the end surface of the boss facing the second side is in contact with the surface of the central axis portion facing the first side.

13. The X-ray tube according to claim 10, characterized in that The sealing structure further comprises: The second protrusion is arranged on the central axis, the second protrusion is located in the assembly hole, the second protrusion contacts the inner wall of the assembly hole, and the second protrusion closes one end of the filling cavity toward the second side.

14. The X-ray tube according to claim 7, characterized in that The assembly hole is a through hole. Along the first direction, the central axis portion has a first end and a second end opposite to each other. The first end is connected to the shell at the first side, and the second end is connected to the shell at the second side through the assembly hole.

Images