Cathode power supply assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to a cathode power supply assembly. A system for an imaging system is provided. In one example, an electronic assembly configured to control a cathode (208) of an X-ray tube (202, 402) of an imaging system (100) includes a plurality of boards (420) including a first analog board (470), a first digital board (510), a second power board (520), and a third power board (530); and at least two Faraday cages nested with each other, the at least two Faraday cages including an inner Faraday cage (540) surrounding the first digital plate (510) and an outer Faraday cage (452) surrounding each of the plurality of plates (420) and the inner Faraday cage (540).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein relate to medical imaging systems, and more particularly to X-ray based medical imaging systems. Background Art

[0002] X-ray tubes and imaging systems can be used in a variety of applications to scan an object and reconstruct one or more images of the object. For example, in computed tomography (CT) imaging systems and interventional imaging systems, an X-ray source emits an X-ray beam toward a subject or object (such as a patient or a piece of luggage). The beam impinges on a radiation detector array after being attenuated by the subject. The intensity of the attenuated beam radiation received at the detector array generally depends on the attenuation of the X-ray beam by the subject. Each detector element of the detector array generates a separate electrical signal indicating the attenuated beam received by each detector element. The electrical signal is transmitted to a data processing system for analysis. The data processing system processes the electrical signal to facilitate the generation of an image.

[0003] Generally speaking, in such imaging systems, the X-ray source and the detector array are in the imaging plane and rotate around the subject. In addition, the X-ray source generally includes an X-ray tube that emits an X-ray beam at a focal point. The X-ray tube may include one or more emitters from which an electron beam is emitted toward a target in response to heat generated by an applied current via a thermionic effect. The emitter may be configured as a cathode and the target may be configured as an anode, wherein the target (which may be located at ground) is at a much higher positive voltage than the emitter (which may be at a negative voltage) to generate an electric field and allow transmission of the electron beam. In response to the electron beam impinging on the target, the target emits X-rays. The cathode may include one or more electrodes (and / or magnets for setting a local electric field) for setting a local magnetic field on the emission structure to control the intensity, focus and direction of the electron beam. An electron generator also included in the X-ray source is used to provide a high voltage between the cathode and anode of the tube, control the rotation of the anode and control the cathode (e.g., provide a heating current to the emitter and a voltage to the electrode). Summary of the invention

[0004] In one example, an electronic assembly configured to control a cathode of an x-ray tube of a medical imaging system includes: a plurality of boards including a first analog board, a first digital board, a second power board, and a third power board; and at least two Faraday cages nested within each other, the at least two Faraday cages including an inner Faraday cage surrounding the first digital board and an outer Faraday cage surrounding each board of the plurality of boards and the inner Faraday cage.

[0005] It should be understood that the above brief description is provided to introduce in a simplified form selected concepts that are further described in the detailed description. It is not meant to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is uniquely defined by the claims that follow the detailed description. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any disadvantages noted above or in any part of this disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] The present invention will be better understood by reading the following description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0007] Figure 1 An example medical imaging system is shown.

[0008] Figure 2 is a system diagram of an implementation scheme of an X-ray generator.

[0009] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an X-ray generator with jet damping.

[0010] Figure 4A is a cross section of an assembly including multiple interconnected power boards with high voltage (HV) connectors.

[0011] Figure 4B is a perspective view of an assembly including an outer Faraday cage surrounding a cathode power supply assembly.

[0012] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The cathode power supply assembly is shown without the external Faraday cage.

[0013] Fig. 6A is a view of a power board with an interconnect board.

[0014] Figure 6B is a view of the power board coupled to the first analog board and the first digital board.

[0015] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B is a view of an inner Faraday cage surrounding a first digital board coupled to a first analog board.

[0016] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B is a view of the outer Faraday cage.

[0017] Fig. 9 Here is another view of the outer Faraday cage.

[0018] Fig.10 is a view of the cathode power supply assembly with an external Faraday cage. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The following description relates to various embodiments of a medical imaging system. Figure 1 An example medical imaging system is shown in FIG. Figure 1 The medical imaging system may be an interventional imaging system comprising an X-ray generator configured to supply power to an X-ray tube. Figure 2 is a system diagram of an implementation scheme of an X-ray generator. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an X-ray generator with jet damping. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The X-ray generator shown in FIG. 1 includes a series high voltage (HV) transformer to provide a high voltage to the X-ray tube. This series configuration prevents certain degradation modes that may occur due to high voltage discharges (e.g., whereby large amplitude AC currents may flow through electrically sensitive electronic devices). In this series configuration, the electronics used to control the cathode are referred to as high voltage electronics and are located between the HV transformer and the HV connector to minimize parasitic capacitance. The traditional layout and geometry of the electronics connected to the very high voltage reference are organized on one physical board and protected by a single Faraday cage. While this traditional approach is effective in situations where space is not an advantage, it does not allow the use of a "series HV transformer" geometry and results in very complex and cumbersome protection features against high voltage discharges.

[0020] Thus, according to the embodiments disclosed herein, a modular (3 or more mainboards), compact and robust method for mechanically integrating all functions of a cathode of an interventional system is provided to allow for practical implementation of a series HV transformer. A high voltage (HV) connector may be electrically coupled to an X-ray tube of a medical imaging system. Figure 4A A cross section of an assembly including an HV connector is shown in FIG. Figure 4B A perspective view of the assembly is shown in FIG. The assembly may include a cathode power supply (e.g., a cathode control member) that is Figure 5A and Figure 5B The cathode power supply may include a plurality of digital boards, analog boards, and power boards, including at least a first digital board, a first analog board, a second power board, and a third power board. Fig. 6A and Figure 6B A second power board is shown in FIG. Fig. 7A and Figure 7B A first digital board and its Faraday cage are shown in . The Faraday cage surrounds the first digital board, which is a sensitive board due to the digital electronics positioned thereon, and is coupled to the first analog board. Fig. 8A , Figure 8B and Fig. 9 The second Faraday cage of the cathode assembly is shown in FIG. Fig.10A second Faraday cage is shown surrounding the plurality of plates of the cathode assembly. FIG. 4A to FIG. 10 Shown to scale, however other relative dimensions may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0021] The proposed geometry organizes cathode electronics on three levels and uses multiple Faraday cages nested in each other, in contrast to previous solutions in which cathode electronics were organized on a single board and surrounded by a single Faraday cage. A first digital board surrounded by an inner Faraday cage includes control electronics (such as an FPGA, CPLD and / or CPU) and other microelectronic components. The first digital board is coupled to a first analog board, and these two boards constitute a first level of the geometry (referred to as the control level). A second power board includes power electronics to provide and control the emitter current and constitutes a second level (referred to as the high power level). A third power board includes power electronics to provide and control the bias voltage / gate voltage to the electrode and constitutes a third level (referred to as the high voltage level). This geometry allows for good separation of different features of the cathode assembly. Additionally or alternatively, one of the boards can be arranged in an orientation different from that of the other boards to reduce the package size of the cathode power supply.

[0022] The cathode power supply assembly includes multiple Faraday cages, such as two or more Faraday cages. In the example shown herein, a digital board (e.g., referred to as a shark board and including control electronics (such as an FPGA and a CPU)) can be surrounded by an inner Faraday cage, and the entire board assembly (e.g., multiple boards) can be surrounded by an outer Faraday cage. In other examples, each of these power electronics boards can be surrounded by a corresponding outer Faraday cage (where the digital board is surrounded by an inner Faraday cage). Some of these power electronics boards can be electrically coupled via an interconnect board. This arrangement can provide high frequency immunity and reduce exposure of these boards to high discharge conditions. The interconnect board provides an inexpensive way to greatly reduce the volume of the cathode electronics and facilitate assembly while providing very robust anti-discharge protection.

[0023] FIG. 4A to FIG. 10 The cathode power supply assembly / high voltage assembly illustrated in provides a high voltage supply and control for the cathode while facilitating a 1.25 Gbps communication link with the main generator motherboard with 180 kV insulation. The configuration disclosed herein includes power supplied to heat multiple emitters (e.g., 3 emitters). The configuration also includes a gate function / bias function between 0V and -9 kV and a rise and fall time of <50 μs. The configuration includes HV measurement, resistance to HV instability, compatibility with mineral oil or other fluids, and improved electronic robustness to electromagnetic disturbances.

[0024] Additionally, the compact assembly of the cathode power supply described herein allows the use of a dynamic damper network that improves the efficiency of the entire X-ray generator by saving about 2kW at a tube current of 1A. The damping network protects the HV transformer and can reduce the energy released during discharge, but it will not completely eliminate the released energy. The residual energy can still degrade the cathode electronics, so for other products, a Faraday cage is used to divert the residual energy, which prevents the discharge current from passing through the cathode electronics.

[0025] refer to Figure 1 , schematically illustrates an imaging system 100 including a C-shaped arc 102 (which may be referred to herein as a C-shaped gantry). The imaging system 100 may be referred to herein as a medical imaging system and / or a C-shaped arc imaging system. The imaging system 100 includes a radiation source, and in the examples described herein, the radiation source is an X-ray unit 108 (which may be referred to herein as an X-ray tube) that is positioned relative to a detector 130 (which may be referred to herein as an x-ray detector) and is configured to emit X-ray radiation. In other examples, the radiation source may be configured to emit different types of radiation (such as gamma rays) for imaging (e.g., imaging a subject (such as patient 134)), and the detector (e.g., X-ray detector 130) may be configured to detect radiation emitted by the radiation source (e.g., X-ray beam 132). The imaging system 100 additionally includes a base unit 105 that supports the imaging system 100 on a ground surface 190 on which the imaging system 100 sits (eg, via a base 122 supported by wheels 124, wheels 126, etc.).

[0026] The C-shaped arc 102 includes a C-shaped portion 103 connected to an extension portion 107, wherein the extension portion 107 is rotatably coupled to the base unit 105. The detector 130 is coupled to the C-shaped portion 103 at a first end 150 of the C-shaped portion 103, and the X-ray unit 108 is coupled to the C-shaped portion 103 at an opposite second end 152 of the C-shaped portion 103. For example, the C-shaped arc 102 can be configured to rotate at least 180 degrees in opposite directions relative to the base unit 105. The C-shaped arc 102 is capable of rotating about at least the rotation axis 164, and can additionally rotate about the axis 167. The C-shaped portion 103 can be rotated as described above to adjust the X-ray unit 108 and the detector 130 (positioned on opposite ends of the C-shaped portion of the C-shaped arc 102 along the axis 166, wherein the axis 166 intersects the rotation axis 164 and extends radially relative to the rotation axis 164) through a plurality of positions.

[0027] During an imaging operation (e.g., scanning), a portion of a patient's body placed in an opening formed between the X-ray unit 108 and the detector 130 may be irradiated with radiation from the X-ray unit 108. For example, the patient 134 may be supported by a patient support table 136 (where the patient support table 136 includes a support surface 138 and a base 140), and may be arranged between the X-ray unit 108 and the detector 130. The X-ray unit 108 includes an X-ray tube insert 109, and X-ray radiation generated by the X-ray tube insert 109 may be emitted from the X-ray unit 108. The radiation may penetrate the portion of the patient's body arranged to be irradiated, and may travel to the detector 130 where it is captured (e.g., intercepted by a detector surface 113 of the detector 130). By penetrating the portion of the patient's body placed between the X-ray unit 108 and the detector 130, an image of the patient's body is captured and relayed (e.g., via electrical connections, such as the conductive cable 161) to the electronic controller 120 of the imaging system 100. The image may be displayed via the display device 118. The images of the subject acquired by the imaging system 100 via the X-ray unit 108 and the detector 130 as described above may be referred to herein as projection images and / or scanned projection images.

[0028] The base unit 105 may include an electronic controller (e.g., a control and computing unit) that processes instructions or commands sent from a user input device during operation of the imaging system 100. The base unit 105 may also include an internal power source (not shown) that provides power to operate the imaging system 100. Alternatively, the base unit 105 may be connected to an external power source to power the imaging system 100. A plurality of connection lines (e.g., power cables, such as conductive cables 161) may be provided to transmit power, instructions, and / or data between the X-ray unit 108, the detector 130, and the control and computing unit. The plurality of connection lines may transmit power from a power source (e.g., an internal power source and / or an external power source) to the X-ray unit 108 and the detector 130.

[0029] The C-shaped arc 102 can be adjusted to a plurality of different positions by rotating the C-shaped portion 103 of the C-shaped arc 102. Figure 1In the illustrated initial first position, the detector 130 may be positioned vertically above the X-ray unit 108 relative to a ground surface 190 on which the imaging system 100 is located, wherein an axis 166 disposed perpendicular to the ground surface 190 intersects a midpoint of each of an outlet 111 of the X-ray unit 108 and a detector surface 113 of the detector 130. The C-shaped arc 102 may be adjusted from the first position to a different second position by rotating the C-shaped portion 103. In one example, the second position may be a position in which the X-ray unit 108 and the detector 130 are rotated together 180 degrees relative to the first position, such that the X-ray unit 108 is positioned vertically above the detector 130, wherein the axis 166 intersects a midpoint of the outlet 111 of the X-ray unit 108 and a midpoint of the detector surface 113 of the detector 130. When adjusted to the second position, the X-ray unit 108 may be positioned vertically above the rotation axis 164 of the C-shaped portion 103 of the C-arc 102, and the detector 130 may be positioned vertically below the rotation axis 164. Different rotational positions of the C-arc 102 are possible.

[0030] Figure 2 is a system diagram of an embodiment of the X-ray generator 200. Figure 2 In the embodiment depicted in and as described in detail herein, the X-ray generator 200 includes a high voltage source and a radiation source, which is illustratively an X-ray tube 202 electrically coupled to a high voltage box assembly 204 in a conventional manner to generate emissions of X-rays from the X-ray tube 202. Although the high voltage box assembly 204 is depicted as including various components located therein, alternative embodiments may include more or fewer components located within the high voltage box assembly 204 in arrangements other than as depicted herein. The X-ray generator 200 also includes a power supply circuit 206 that is coupled to the high voltage box assembly 204 and is configured to supply power to drive the high voltage box assembly 204.

[0031] The X-ray tube 202 generally includes a cathode 208 and an anode 210. The cathode 208 and the anode 210 are arranged in a generally relatively aligned manner along the longitudinal axis of the X-ray tube 202. The cathode 208 includes one or more electron emitting filaments that are capable of emitting electrons in a conventional manner. The filament heating current controls the number of electrons vaporized by the filament and thus provides control over the flow of tube current. The high voltage potential applied by the high voltage box assembly 204 causes electrons to accelerate from the cathode 208 toward the anode 210. The accelerated electrons contact the anode 210, thereby generating electromagnetic radiation (including X-radiation).

[0032] The high voltage box assembly 204 is configured to receive an AC waveform from the power circuit 206 and condition the AC waveform to provide a high voltage DC potential to the X-ray tube 202, wherein the anode 210 and the cathode 208 generally carry equal voltages of different polarities. In some examples, the cathode 208 can be unipolar, wherein both the grid voltage and the bias voltage have a single polarity (negative). The high voltage box assembly 204 includes a transformer assembly 212 and a voltage rectifier circuit 214. The transformer assembly 212 and the voltage rectifier circuit 214 of the high voltage box assembly 204 condition the AC voltage signal transmitted by the power circuit 206.

[0033] The voltage rectifier 214 is connected to a distributed resonant energy recovery (DRER) circuit 216. As described in further detail herein, the DRER circuit 216 can store energy between high kV levels (e.g., 140 kV) and low kV levels (e.g., 80 kV) and restore it to the X-ray tube 202. The DRER circuit 216 further improves efficiency by reusing and recycling energy when switching between voltage levels, which saves energy and allows for faster switching.

[0034] The transformer assembly 212 and the voltage rectifier 214 provide the high voltage energy necessary to produce the X-rays to the X-ray tube. The high voltage energy may be between two or more output energy levels. In one example, the energy may be switched between zero and 120 kV, while in another embodiment, the energy may be switched between 80 kV and 140 kV. However, other energy levels or combinations of two or more energy levels are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0035] In some examples, a temporary electrical short may sometimes occur inside the X-ray tube, which is commonly referred to as a tube ejection. During the tube ejection recovery period, no X-ray tube will emit X-ray photons. As disclosed herein, a dynamic damper 220 may be provided between the cathode 208 of the X-ray tube 202 and the voltage rectifier 214. The dynamic damper 220 provides impedance against the short circuit of the tube ejection to limit the value of the inrush current and protect the components. The dynamic damper 220 has a frequency variable impedance to provide high impedance in response to the high frequency characteristics of the tube ejection, while providing low impedance during normal operation (including normal X-ray generator operating frequency and the operating frequency of the energy storage system).

[0036] In some examples, the X-ray generator 200 may also include a DRER circuit 216 connected to the voltage rectifier 214. An energy recovery system (e.g., DRER circuit 216) may help provide energy switching between two or more energy levels by storing and returning energy to accelerate transitions between energy levels. In an embodiment, this may be provided as resonant switching of the voltage generated by the transformer and the voltage rectifier to the X-ray tube 202 between a high kV level (e.g., 140 kV) and a low kV level (e.g., 80 kV). When switching between energy levels, the DRER circuit 216 may be operable to switch the load on the output capacitor to transfer energy from the output capacitor to the storage capacitor, thereby recovering energy from the system.

[0037] Figure 3 2 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an X-ray generator 200 with tube jet damping. The X-ray generator 200 includes a power supply circuit 206 that receives main power from a power distribution unit (PDU) 222. The PDU 222 provides external input power to the power supply circuit 206. In some examples, the PDU 222 provides power at an exemplary 50 Hz input frequency. The power supply circuit 206 may include a frequency converter that generates a high-frequency input power signal to a transformer assembly 212. The high-frequency input power signal may have a frequency between 50 kHz and 250 kHz. The high-frequency input power signal includes an AC component and a DC component to provide an input voltage to the high-voltage box assembly 204, thereby forming a high voltage potential necessary to generate X-rays. Power from the power supply circuit is provided to the high-voltage box assembly 204 and the transformer assembly 212 located therein.

[0038] As described above, the transformer assembly 212 and the voltage rectifier 214 generate the high voltage potential required by the X-ray tube to generate X-rays. In particular, in dual energy (DE) or multi-energy (ME) X-ray applications, the transformer assembly 212 and the voltage rectifier 214 are capable of generating multiple voltage levels across the X-ray tube 202. In some examples, one or more of the frequency converter, the transformer assembly 212, and the voltage rectifier 214 include a high voltage generator 218 of the X-ray generator 200. The filter capacitor 224 is arranged in parallel with the voltage rectifier 214. The output capacitor 226 is arranged in parallel with the X-ray tube 202, and controls the voltage applied across the X-ray tube 202 and stores the potential for recapture and reuse. In an embodiment, the capacitance of the output capacitor 226 may include, at least in part, the capacitance of the high voltage cable linking the high voltage generator and the X-ray tube. The capacitance of the output capacitor may be greater than the capacitance of the filter capacitor 224.

[0039] In some examples, the high voltage cable may be Figure 1The X-ray tube 202 may be included in the X-ray unit 108, and the high voltage generator (e.g., the high voltage box assembly 204) may be included in the base unit 105. In some examples, the high voltage generator (e.g., the high voltage box assembly 204) may be included in a separate housing that may be positioned distally of the C-shaped portion 103 (e.g., in a cabinet) and coupled to the X-ray unit 108 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1 ) via the cable 161 and an extension of the cable 161. Figure 4A as shown and described in more detail below).

[0040] As explained above, the dynamic damper 220 is located between the X-ray tube 202 and the voltage rectifier 214. As explained above, tube jet is a high frequency phenomenon of a short circuit within the X-ray tube 202. Tube jet can occur at a frequency of about 10 MHz, although typically tube jet has a fundamental frequency above 20 MHz. The high impedance provided by the dynamic damper 220 at these frequencies protects the system from tube jet. However, the high damping impedance reduces the efficiency of energy recovery. Therefore, the dynamic damper 220, which produces a frequency variable impedance, can provide a low impedance at low frequencies associated with the operation of the X-ray generator 200, including embodiments with an energy storage system as described herein, while providing a high impedance when high frequency tube jet phenomena occur. In particular, in systems using resonant switching, this arrangement achieves both improved tube jet protection and improved energy recovery.

[0041] Thus, the above-described X-ray generator may include an X-ray tube including one or more emitters from which an electron beam is emitted toward a target. The emitter is part of a cathode (e.g., cathode 208) and the target is an anode (e.g., anode 210), wherein the target (which may be located at ground) is at a much higher positive voltage than the emitter (which may be at a negative voltage). The electrons from the emitter may be formed into a beam and guided or focused by an electrode (for setting a local electric field on the emission structure) and / or a magnet that is also a part of the cathode. In response to the electron beam striking the target, the target emits X-rays. The voltage supplied to the electrode of the cathode may be controlled so as to adjust the intensity or energy of the X-rays produced. In these systems, with respect to controlling the emitter, it is desirable to be able to produce a rapid transition from a low voltage to a high voltage, as well as to control the voltage waveform on the electrode voltage value to control the electron beam.

[0042] As described above, in contrast to the more commonly used bipolar cathodes, the cathode can be unipolar. In a bipolar cathode, the grid voltage has a first polarity (e.g., negative) and the bias voltage can have an opposite polarity (e.g., positive or negative). Additionally, the drive electronics of the cathode can be connected by a cable that can vary in length from about 0.5m to about 40m. Therefore, typical electronics for controlling the cathode can be configured for bipolar cathodes and / or shorter cables. When applied to cathodes controlled by longer cables, methods for controlling cathodes by shorter cables may be less effective. In addition, it may be desirable to move the electronics for controlling the cathode (e.g., drive electronics) away from the cathode and in the high voltage box assembly, for example, to reduce the size of the cathode.

[0043] For example, a previous solution included various electronics on a single board and placed in a Faraday cage positioned along the long side of the HV transformer, with one end next to the high voltage terminal and the other end next to the low voltage side. A disadvantage of this solution is that the location of the parasitic capacitance between the sides of the Faraday cage and the sides of the HV transformer is not negligible and if the same geometry is applied to an X-ray generator as disclosed herein (e.g., with a monopolar cathode and / or with long cables), it may lead to rapid degradation when discharge occurs.

[0044] The high voltage discharge (short circuit inside the X-ray tube) generates a high frequency (about 100MHz) large amplitude AC current, which flows to ground through the HV cable, the damping resistor / network, and if not properly managed, flows to ground through the electrically sensitive electronic devices. The role of the damping resistor / network is to greatly reduce the size of the discharge current. Previous solutions may result in large parasitic capacitances being positioned so that the damping resistor / network can be completely bypassed by the discharge current. The electronic devices will be damaged by the unattenuated AC current. Therefore, a "series HV transformer" used with a dynamic damper with a frequency-dependent impedance to reduce the losses in the damping resistor can eliminate this degradation mode. In addition, according to the embodiments disclosed herein and described in more detail below, the electronic devices can be organized and various Faraday cages can be used so that the "series HV transformer" concept can be realized in practice. The proposed solution is modular, which allows the solution to be applied to various types of robust, inexpensive and easy-to-manufacture imaging systems (e.g., computed tomography, X-ray imaging, fluoroscopy).

[0045] Now turn to Figure 4A , which shows an example of a power device 400 (e.g., a box in an X-ray generator) with a series high voltage (HV) transformer. The power device 400 can be coupled to an X-ray tube 402. In one example, the X-ray tube 402 can be Figure 2In one example, the power device 400 may be arranged in Figure 2 The HV box assembly 204 of FIG. 1 and / or may be a non-limiting example of the HV box assembly. Figure 4A The power device 400 shown is along Figure 4B 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the x-axis of the view of the power device 400 shown in FIG.

[0046] An axis system 490 is shown that includes an x-axis parallel to the transverse direction, a y-axis parallel to the axial direction, and a z-axis parallel to the transverse direction and perpendicular to the x-axis and y-axis. In one example, the transverse direction is the horizontal direction and the axial direction is the vertical direction.

[0047] The power device 400 includes a plurality of components housed within a housing 401 (e.g., a box assembly housing), including a high voltage (HV) connector 410. A first cable 404 may extend from the X-ray tube 402 to a junction box 406. The first cable 404 may include a first length. A second cable 408 may extend from the junction box 406 to the HV connector 410. The second cable 408 may include a second length. The second length may be greater than the first length. In one example, the second length is at least twice as long as the first length. The first cable 404 and the second cable 408 may be electrically coupled to each other. The first cable 404 and the second cable 408 may together form a high voltage cable. The first cable 404 may be Figure 1 408. In some examples, the first cable 404 may have a length of up to 15 m, and the second cable 408 may have a length of up to 30 m. In some examples, the high voltage cable may have an overall length in the range of 10 m to 40 m. Additionally or alternatively, the first cable 404 may include a first specification, and the second cable 408 may include a second specification. In one example, the first specification and the second specification are equal. Additionally or alternatively, the first specification may be smaller or larger than the second specification.

[0048] The power device 400 includes a cathode power assembly 460, which includes a plurality of boards 420. The cathode power assembly 460 can be housed in a housing 401 and can be electrically connected to a HV connector 410. The plurality of boards 420 can include a plurality of interconnected boards. The plurality of boards 420 can include electronic devices (power electronic components, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), and / or central processing units (CPUs)) configured to control the power output from an HV transformer 440 also housed in the housing 401.

[0049] In one example, the plurality of boards 420 may include four boards that are organized in a manner that reduces the packaging space of the assembly. When compared to the previous example, the plurality of boards 420 may provide modularity, improving the performance and manufacturability of the power device 400. In one example, the first digital board, the first analog board, and the second power board in the plurality of boards 420 may be arranged in a first orientation based on the direction in which the electronic devices of these boards are facing. The third power board in the plurality of boards 420 may be arranged in a second orientation that is different from the first orientation. In one example, the third power board is upside down relative to the first digital board, the first analog board, and the second board. The plurality of boards will be described in more detail below.

[0050] The dynamic damper 430 may be disposed between the plurality of plates 420 and the HV transformer 440 within the housing 401. In one example, the dynamic damper 430 may improve the efficiency of the power device 400. In one example, the combination of the dynamic damper and the plurality of plates 420 may avoid high discharge currents that degrade electronic components. In one example, the shape and packaging of the plurality of plates 420 consistent with the HV transformer 440 may prevent high voltage discharge currents from contacting the electronic components of the plurality of plates 420. The HV transformer 440 is a non-limiting example of the transformer assembly 212, and the dynamic damper 430 is a non-limiting example of the dynamic damper 220.

[0051] Now turn to Figure 4B , which shows a perspective view 450 of a power device 400. Therefore, previously introduced components are similarly numbered in this and subsequent figures. Figure 4A The housing 401 of is omitted from the perspective view 450 to allow visualization of the internal components. As shown, the height of the cathode power supply assembly 460 including the plurality of plates 420 is substantially equal to the height of the dynamic damper 430. Additionally or alternatively, the height of the HV transformer 440 is substantially equal to the height of each of the cathode power supply assembly 460 and the dynamic damper 430. As will be described herein, at least two of the plurality of plates 420 may be arranged complementary to each other to reduce the packaging size of the cathode power supply assembly 460 while accommodating different electrical potentials of the at least two plates.

[0052] The cathode power supply assembly 460 may include an outer Faraday cage 452. The outer Faraday cage 452 may include four sides, including a front side 451. Figure 4BIn the view of FIG. 4 , the front side 451 of the outer faraday cage 452 is transparent to allow the internal electronics to be visible behind the outer faraday cage. The outer faraday cage 452 may surround the sides of the plurality of boards 420. The outer faraday cage 452 may include a top surface 462 and a bottom surface 464. The top surface 462 and the bottom surface 464 may each be a printed wiring board, which in some examples has been metallized. In one example, the top surface 462, the bottom surface 464, and the four sides (including the front side 451) of the outer faraday cage 452 may form a housing that accommodates the plurality of boards 420. The housing may be completely sealed except for the plurality of perforations 454 arranged in the outer faraday cage 452. The plurality of perforations 454 may allow a coolant (such as oil) to enter the housing. The coolant may thermally modulate the electrical components of the plurality of boards 420. The outer faraday cage 452 may be constructed of a conductive material (such as an aluminum alloy).

[0053] The outer Faraday cage 452 can be mounted to the cathode power supply assembly 460 via a plurality of fasteners 456, which cooperate with a plurality of eyelets 458 mounted to the plurality of plates 420 (described in more detail below). The plurality of eyelets 458 can limit the overpotential of one or more of the plurality of plates 420 while still allowing the use of a plurality of fasteners 456, which can simplify the manufacturing process.

[0054] The cathode power supply assembly 460 may also include a first analog board 470. A portion of the first analog board 470 may be disposed outside the outer faraday cage 452, and thus, outside the housing. In this manner, a portion of the first analog board 470 may be disposed within the outer faraday cage 452, while the remainder of the first analog board 470 is disposed outside the outer faraday cage 452. For example, one of the plurality of boards 420 may be coupled to the portion of the first analog board 470 within the outer faraday cage 452. The remainder of the first analog board 470 may be spaced apart from the board of the plurality of boards 420 and located outside the outer faraday cage 452.

[0055] The first simulation board 470 may include a transformer 472 and a fiber optic network 474. In one example, the first simulation board 470 may be configured to control HV discharge, measure HV discharge, and provide communication between various components of the medical imaging system. The transformer 472 may be configured to transmit power from the external board to the first simulation board 470, and thus to the cathode power supply assembly 460. The connector (at Figure 4B Not shown, but in Figure 5A and Fig. 6A ) can transmit voltage from the HV transformer 440 to the HV connector (e.g., Figure 4A The optical fiber network 474 can communicate between the inside of the box and the outside of the box. In one example, the power device 400 is arranged in Figure 2 and Figure 3 The fiber optic network 474 may include fiber optic cables and mountings thereof for providing a direct communication channel between components inside the HV box and components outside the HV box.

[0056] The height of cathode power supply assembly 460 measured along the y-axis may be equal to or less than the height of HV transformer 440. Relative to the previous example, the height of cathode power supply assembly 460 may be reduced via the arrangement of each of the plurality of plates 420, as discussed above and described in more detail below.

[0057] Now turn to Figure 5A and Figure 5B , which show relative perspective views of the cathode power supply assembly 460 with the outer Faraday cage 452 omitted. Figure 5A A first view 500 from a first side of cathode power supply assembly 460 is shown. Figure 5B A second view 550 is shown from a second side of the cathode power supply assembly 460, the second side being opposite to the first side. Figure 5A and Figure 5B .

[0058] A configuration of multiple boards 420 is shown. The multiple boards 420 may include a first analog board 470, a first digital board 510, a second power board 520, and a third power board 530. Each of the first analog board 470, the first digital board 510, the second power board 520, and the third power board 530 is parallel to the xz plane. Therefore, each of the multiple boards 420 is parallel to each other. Additionally or alternatively, the size and shape of the second power board 520 and the third power board 530 may be the same. Each of the first digital board 510, the second power board 520, and the third power board 530 may include a square shape or a rectangular shape. In some examples, the first digital board 510 may be smaller than the second power board 520 and the third power board 530. Figure 5B , the first digital plate 510 is positioned behind an inner Faraday cage 540 , which is shown as partially transparent to allow visualization of the first plate 510 .

[0059] In one example, the first digital board 510 is a shark board. The first digital board 510 can be configured to control elements of the cathode power supply assembly 460. In one example, the second power supply board 520 is an emitter board. The second power supply board 520 can be configured to control the voltage and temperature of the emitter element (e.g., a filament) of the cathode. In one example, the third power supply board 530 is a grid board. The third power supply board 530 can be configured to modulate and control the bias voltage to the cathode (e.g., the bias voltage can be applied to the grid electrode of the cathode to turn on the cathode) and stabilize the focus of the generated X-ray beam.

[0060] The cathode power supply assembly 460 may include a plurality of fastening elements for securing the outer Faraday cage 452 to the plurality of plates. The fastening elements may include a metal ring that may be configured to interface with a screw or other fastener, as described herein. However, it should be understood that other types of fastening elements may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The plurality of metal rings 458 (e.g., Figure 4B The first analog board 470 may include a plurality of first metal circles 512, a plurality of second metal circles 522, and a plurality of third metal circles 532. The plurality of first metal circles 512 may be coupled to a portion of the first analog board 470 adjacent to the first digital board 510. The plurality of second metal circles 522 may be coupled to the second power board 520. The plurality of third metal circles 532 may be coupled to the third power board 530. In one example, each of the plurality of first metal circles 512 and the plurality of second metal circles 522 extends in a first direction, and each of the plurality of third metal circles 532 extends in a second direction opposite to the first direction. For example, the metal circles in the plurality of first metal circles 512 extend toward the second power board 520, and the metal circles in the plurality of second metal circles 522 extend toward the third power board 530. The metal circles in the plurality of third metal circles 532 extend toward the second power board 520.

[0061] The plurality of boards 420 may be supported by a plurality of columns, the plurality of columns including a first plurality of columns 502 and a second plurality of columns 504. The first plurality of columns 502 may be arranged between the first analog board 470 and the second power board 520, thereby forming a first gap between the first analog board 470 and the second power board 520. The second plurality of columns 504 may be arranged between the second power board 520 and the third power board 530, thereby forming a second gap between the second power board 520 and the third power board 530. The number, size, and shape of the first plurality of columns 502 may be the same as the number, size, and shape of the second plurality of columns 504. The first metal ring 512 may be arranged in the first gap. The second metal ring 522 and the third metal ring 532 may be arranged in the second gap. The third plurality of columns 513 may be arranged between the first analog board 470 and the first digital board 510 to mount the first digital board 510 to the first analog board 470.

[0062] The first digital board 510 and the first analog board 470 may each include electronic devices mounted thereon, the electronic devices extending into the first gap in the first direction along the positive y-axis. The second power board 520 may include electronic devices mounted thereon, the electronic devices extending into the second gap in the first direction. Thus, the first digital board 510, the first analog board 470, and the second power board 520 are mounted in a first orientation.

[0063] The third power board 530 may include an electronic device mounted thereon, the electronic device extending into the second gap in the second direction along the negative y-axis. Thus, the third power board may be mounted in a second orientation different from the first orientation. In one example, the third power board 530 may be "upside down" relative to the first digital board 510 and the second power board 520. In other words, the first digital board 510 may have a first mounting surface, on which the electronic device of the first digital board 510 is coupled; the second power board 520 may have a second mounting surface, on which the electronic device of the second power board 520 is coupled; and the third power board 530 may have a third mounting surface, on which the electronic device of the third power board 530 is coupled. The electronic device on the first mounting surface may extend upward from the first mounting surface along the positive y-direction (for example, the electronic device of the first board may face the bottom non-mounting surface of the second board). Similarly, the electronic device on the second mounting surface may extend upward from the second mounting surface along the positive y-direction. However, the electronic device on the third mounting surface may extend downward from the third mounting surface along the negative y-direction. In this manner, the third mounting surface may face the second mounting surface (e.g., the electronics of the second power board may face the mounting surface of the third power board, and the electronics of the third power board may face the mounting surface of the second power board). The first analog board may be arranged in a similar manner to the first digital board and the second power board, e.g., the electronics of the first analog board may face the bottom non-mounting surface of the first digital board and / or the bottom non-mounting surface of the second power board.

[0064] In one example, the potential of the first digital board 510 and / or the first analog board 470 is the same as the potential of the second power board 520. The potential of the third power board 530 may also be different from the potential of the first digital board 510 and the second power board 520. The electronic devices mounted on the second power board 520 and the third power board 530 may be arranged complementarily so that the electronic devices of these boards do not touch, while reducing the package size of the cathode power supply assembly 460. In this way, the electronic devices of both the second power board 520 and the third power board 530 may also be arranged between the second power board 520 and the third power board 530.

[0065] The plurality of boards 420 may be communicatively coupled via an interconnect board 560 that is connected in a Figure 5A560 is shown in a partially transparent view to allow visualization of components located behind the interconnection board 560. The interconnection board 560 may include a plurality of connection points that interface with the connection points of the plurality of boards 420. The first analog board 470 includes a first connection point 514 that is coupled to a first end of the interconnection board 560. The second power board 520 includes a plurality of second connection points 524 that are coupled to a middle section of the interconnection board 560. The third power board 530 includes a third connection point 534 that is coupled to a second end of the interconnection board 560 that is opposite to the first end. The interconnection board 560 may be configured to transmit signals and power between the plurality of boards 420.

[0066] Thus, the interconnect board 560 electrically connects the first analog board 470 to both the second power board 520 and the third power board 530. The interconnect board 560 addresses a number of challenges associated with the arrangements disclosed herein, including small signal integrity (shielding), creepage distances with high voltage signals (1.5 kV), supporting power up to 500 W, and mineral oil compatibility.

[0067] The second power board 520 may include a connector 570 configured to transmit power from the HV transformer 440 to the X-ray tube (e.g., to the cathode) (via the cathode power assembly 460). The connector 570 may provide a common voltage (HV voltage), three emitter currents, and a gate voltage / bias voltage (electrode voltage to turn the electrode on or off) to the X-ray tube.

[0068] The inner faraday cage 540 may be arranged in the first gap (e.g., between the first analog board 470 and the second power board 520). The inner faraday cage 540 may surround the entire first digital board 510. The inner faraday cage 540 may include a cubic shape or a rectangular prism shape. The inner faraday cage may include a plurality of perforations 542. The plurality of perforations 542 may be configured to permit coolant to directly enter the first digital board 510. In one example, the inner faraday cage 540 surrounds only the first digital board 510, such that the second power board 520, the third power board 530, and the first analog board 470 are arranged outside the inner faraday cage 540. The inner faraday cage 540 may surround the first digital board 510 and portions of wires and other electrical components extending therefrom.

[0069] The inner Faraday cage 540 may be nested within an outer Faraday cage (e.g., Figure 4B The outer Faraday cage 452 of the embodiment of the present invention. The outer Faraday cage and the inner Faraday cage 540 can prevent certain electromagnetic fields from contacting the plurality of plates 420.

[0070] Thus, the cathode power supply assembly 460 may include a plurality of boards (e.g., power supply boards / printed circuit boards) stacked vertically relative to each other. For example, the plurality of boards may include an analog board (e.g., a first analog board), a digital board (e.g., a first digital board), and two power supply boards (e.g., a second power supply board and a third power supply board). The analog board may be the lowest board in the vertical direction, and the third power supply board may be the highest board in the vertical direction, so that the digital board, the second power supply board, and the third power supply board are vertically positioned above the analog board. For example, the y-axis may extend in the positive y-direction away from the ground (in the direction of the arrow of the y-axis), and the plurality of boards may be stacked in the positive y-direction in the order of the analog board, the digital board, the second power supply board, and the third power supply board. The digital board may be vertically positioned closer to the analog board than the second power supply board, and the second power supply board may be vertically positioned closer to the analog board than the third power supply board. The digital board, the second power supply board, the third power supply board, and a portion of the analog board may be surrounded by an outer Faraday cage, and the digital board may be surrounded by an inner Faraday cage within the outer Faraday cage.

[0071] Each of the first analog board, the first digital board, the second power board, and the third power board may extend in a respective xz plane (e.g., parallel to ground) such that the first analog board, the first digital board, the second power board, and the third power board all extend parallel to each other. The cathode power supply assembly 460 may include an interconnection board configured to electrically couple the second power board and the third power board to the first analog board (wherein the first digital board is electrically coupled directly to the first analog board without coupling via the interconnection board). The interconnection board may extend in the xy plane, and thus the interconnection board may extend perpendicular to the first analog board, the first digital board, the second power board, and the third power board. The interconnection board may be surrounded by an outer Faraday cage.

[0072] The cathode power supply assembly can be housed within a high voltage box assembly that includes a HV transformer, a dynamic damper / damping network, and a HV connector. The HV connector can be coupled to a HV cable that is electrically connected to the X-ray tube (e.g., the cathode of the X-ray tube). The HV connector / cable can be configured to supply a voltage in the range of 80 kV to 140 kV to the X-ray tube. The cathode power supply assembly can be configured to control the cathode of the X-ray tube, including controlling the electron flux of the cathode. By including the cathode power supply assembly in the high voltage box assembly, the size of the X-ray tube / cathode can be smaller, which can reduce the torque required to rotate the X-ray unit around the patient (as described above with respect to Figure 1The cathode power supply assembly can be arranged to provide a plurality of cathode power supply assemblies, such as those discussed above, to reduce the likelihood of collision between the x-ray unit and the patient or clinician, and to provide other benefits. However, due to the small space available in the high voltage box assembly and the risk of degradation in the event of a short circuit (as explained above), including the cathode power supply assembly in the high voltage box presents challenges. By arranging the electronics of the cathode power supply assembly onto four plates that are stacked vertically and surrounded by a Faraday cage, the cathode power supply assembly can have a smaller footprint that allows it to fit within the high voltage box assembly and be protected in the event of a short circuit.

[0073] Fig. 6A A detailed view 600 of the second power board 520 is shown. The plurality of second connection points 524 may include a first second board connection point 612 and a second second board connection point 614. The interconnect board 560 may include a first intermediate connection point 622 and a second intermediate connection point 624. The first intermediate connection point 622 may dock with the first second board connection point 612. The second intermediate connection point 624 may dock with the second second board connection point 614. When moving along the positive z-axis in a third coupling direction, the interconnect board 560 may be coupled to the second connection point 524. In some examples, two first second board connections may be provided, each first second board connection portion being configured to dock with a corresponding first intermediate connection point on the connection board.

[0074] The second power board 520 may include a cutout 630 that is complementary to the shape of the interconnect board 560. By doing so, when coupled to multiple boards (e.g., Figure 5A and Figure 5B When each of the plurality of plates 420 is interconnected, the interconnect plate 560 may be parallel to the xy plane.

[0075] like Fig. 6A As further shown, the second power strip 520 may include a plurality of electronic devices 601 coupled to the second mounting surface of the second strip 520. The plurality of electronic devices 601 may extend vertically upward from the second power strip 520. The electronic devices in the plurality of electronic devices 601 may have varying heights, with some of the electronic devices having a higher height than other electronic devices. The electronic devices may be arranged such that the second power strip 520 includes one or more areas with taller electronic devices and one or more areas with shorter electronic devices. The electronic devices coupled to the third power strip 530 may likewise have varying heights, and the electronic devices coupled to the third power strip 530 may be arranged such that the third power strip 530 includes one or more areas with taller electronic devices and one or more areas with shorter electronic devices. Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs shown, when the third power strip 530 is coupled to the second power strip 520, the area of ​​the third power strip 530 with the taller electronic devices can be aligned with the area of ​​the second power strip 520 with the shorter electronic devices, and the area of ​​the third power strip 530 with the shorter electronic devices can be aligned with the area of ​​the second power strip 520 with the taller electronic devices. This complementary arrangement (e.g., whereby the taller electronic devices of the third power strip can fill the space left by the shorter electronic devices of the second power strip) can allow the overall height of the assembly to be reduced.

[0076] Figure 6B 625 is shown, which illustrates that the second power board 520 and the interconnect board 560 coupled to the second power board are coupled to the first analog board 470. It should be understood that in Figure 6B , the first digital board 510 has been mounted to the first analog board 470 and is surrounded by the inner Faraday cage 540. When coupled to the first analog board 470 in a first coupling direction, the second power board 520 and the interconnection board 560 can move along the negative y-axis. The interconnection board 560 may include a first connection end 626 that interfaces with the first connection point 514. As shown, the first connection point 514 is arranged at an end of the first analog board 470 opposite to the first digital board 510 and the inner Faraday cage 540.

[0077] Now turn to Fig. 7A and Figure 7B , which respectively show views 650 and 675 of the first digital board 510 and the inner faraday cage 540. The inner faraday cage 540 can be physically coupled to the first plate nut 654 on the first digital board 510 via a plurality of fasteners 652. Additionally or alternatively, the first digital board 510 can be mounted to the first analog board 470 via a third plurality of posts 513. A portion of the plurality of fasteners 652 can engage with the first plate nut 654, and another portion can engage with the third plurality of posts 513. It should be understood that the inner faraday cage 540 can be formed by the first analog board 470 along the bottom surface. As previously explained, the first digital board 510 can include electronic devices, such as an FPGA and a CPU. In addition, the first digital board 510 can include an electrical connector 655 that couples with a corresponding electrical connector of the first analog board 470.

[0078] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B as well as Fig. 9 The assembly process of the outer faraday cage 452 assembled to surround the plurality of panels 420 is shown. A first assembly step 800 illustrates coupling a first outer faraday cage portion 802 to a plurality of eyelets via a plurality of fasteners 804.

[0079] The first outer Faraday cage portion 802 may include an upper arm 812, an intermediate arm 814, and a lower arm 816. The upper arm 812 may include a first length measured along the z-axis and a first height measured along the y-axis. The upper arm 812 may also include a through hole in the plurality of through holes 454. The intermediate arm 814 may include a second length measured along the z-axis and a second height measured along the y-axis. The second length may be greater than the first length. The second height may be less than the first height. The lower arm 816 may include a third length measured along the z-axis and a third height measured along the y-axis. The third length may be greater than the first length and less than the second length. The third height may be less than each of the first height and the second height. The upper arm 812 and the intermediate arm 814 may include through holes for receiving fasteners in the plurality of fasteners 804.

[0080] Now turn to Figure 8B , which shows a second assembly step 825, which includes coupling a second outer Faraday cage portion 852 to a plurality of metal rings via a plurality of fasteners 854. In this way, Figure 4B The outer faraday cage 452 can be modular and include two separate faraday cages. Additionally, the second outer faraday cage portion 852 can include an arm that interfaces with the upper arm 812, the middle arm 814, and the lower arm 816.

[0081] The second outer faraday cage portion 852 may include a first arm 862 having a fourth length and a fourth height. In one example, the fourth height is greater than the first height. The fourth height may position the first arm 862 to completely overlap the upper arm 812 and a portion of the middle arm 814. The first arm 862 may include slots that may be aligned with the through holes of the upper arm 812. The fasteners may extend through the through holes and the slots and be threaded with the eyelet. The second outer faraday cage portion 852 may also include a second arm 864 having a fifth length and a fifth height. The first length may be less than the second length and the fourth length and similar to the first length. The second arm 864 may overlap a portion of the middle arm 814 and may include a through hole that is aligned with the through hole of the middle arm 814. The fasteners may extend through the through holes and physically couple the arm to the eyelet.

[0082] The first outer faraday cage portion 802 may also include an opposing first outer faraday cage portion arm 832 extending from an end of the first outer faraday cage portion 802 that is opposite to the ends from which the top arm 812, the middle arm 814, and the lower arm 816 extend. The opposing first outer faraday cage portion arm 832 may include a sixth length and a sixth height. The sixth length may be less than the second length and greater than the first length. The sixth height may be greater than the sum of each of the first height, the second height, and the third height. In one example, the sixth height is equal to the height of the first outer faraday cage portion 802.

[0083] The second outer faraday cage portion 852 can include an opposing second outer faraday cage portion arm 882. The opposing second outer faraday cage portion arm 882 can be identical in size and shape to the opposing first outer faraday cage portion arm 832. The opposing second outer faraday cage portion arm 882 and the opposing first outer faraday cage portion arm 832 can be complementary to each other such that they overlap each other and include overlapping through-holes that allow one or more fasteners to physically couple the arms to the eyelet.

[0084] Each of the arms of the first outer Faraday cage portion and the second outer Faraday cage portion may be generally rectangular in shape. The first outer Faraday cage portion and the second outer Faraday cage portion are asymmetrical. The shapes and sizes of the arms may be different to accommodate different electronic components and / or couplings in the cathode power supply assembly.

[0085] Fig. 9 A third assembly step 850 is shown for physically coupling the top surface 462 and the bottom surface 464 to the first outer faraday cage portion 802 and the second outer faraday cage portion 852 . Fig. 9 A miniaturized exploded view 851 of an assembly is included with the top and bottom surfaces removed from the remainder of the assembly. Fig. 9 Also included is a first enlarged view 853 of the top surface 462 and top portion of the assembly and a second enlarged view 855 of the bottom surface 464 and bottom portion of the assembly. The first enlarged view is a top perspective view, while the second enlarged view is a bottom perspective view.

[0086] In one example, the first outer faraday cage portion 802 and the second outer faraday cage portion 852 may include tabs 872 extending from their arms. Each of the tabs 872 may include a threaded through hole for engaging with a threaded fastener. The first outer faraday cage portion 802 and the second outer faraday cage portion 852 may also include a strap 874 extending in a direction perpendicular to the arms. The strap 874 may include a threaded through hole configured to engage with a threaded fastener.

[0087] The top surface 462 can be physically coupled to the first outer faraday cage portion 802 and the second outer faraday cage portion 852 via a plurality of fasteners 876. The plurality of fasteners 876 can engage with the through holes of the tabs 872 and the straps 874. In this manner, the top surface 462 can be directly coupled to the first outer faraday cage portion 802 and the second outer faraday cage portion 852.

[0088] The bottom surface 464 can be physically coupled to each of the first simulation plate 470, the first outer faraday cage portion 802, and the second outer faraday cage portion 852. In one example, the lower arm 816 can include a flange 818 that extends inwardly over a portion of the first simulation plate 470. The flange 818 can include through holes that align with the through holes of the first simulation plate 470. The opposing first outer faraday cage portion arm 832 can include a tab 834 that extends toward the flange 818. In this manner, the flange 818 and the tab 834 can overlap the first simulation plate 470. The strip 833 can extend from the flange 818 to the opposing first outer faraday cage portion arm 832. The strip 833 and the tab 834 can include through holes that align with the through holes of the first simulation plate 470.

[0089] The second opposing outer faraday cage partial arm 882 is identical to the first opposing outer faraday cage partial arm 832. The second opposing outer faraday cage partial arm 882 includes a flange 884, a tab 886, and a strap 888 extending between the flange 884 and the tab 886.

[0090] The bottom surface 464 can be physically coupled to the opposing first outer faraday cage partial arm 832 and the opposing second outer faraday cage partial arm 882 via a plurality of bolts 892, and physically coupled to the first simulation plate 470. In this way, portions of the plurality of plates 420 and the first simulation plate 470 other than the through-holes 454 of the outer faraday cage 452 can be sealed via the outer faraday cage 452, the top surface 462, and the bottom surface 464.

[0091] Fig.10 An embodiment 900 of the cathode power supply assembly 460 is shown in a fully assembled configuration. The outer faraday cage 452 forms a box shape (e.g., a cube shape or a rectangular prism shape) that surrounds the entire first digital board 510, the second power supply board 520, and the third power supply board 530. As described above, the first analog board 470 may include a portion 902 that extends within the housing and is also contained by the outer faraday cage 452.

[0092] In one example, the outer faraday cage 452 forms a housing 910 that encloses a portion of the cathode power supply assembly 460. The inner faraday cage 540 can be nested in the interior space of the housing 910. Also arranged within the interior space of the housing 910 are a plurality of boards 420 and their corresponding electronic devices and a portion 902 of the first analog board 470 on which the first digital board 510 is mounted. The remaining portion 904 of the first analog board 470 is arranged outside the housing 910 and includes a transformer 472 and an optical fiber network. As shown, a plurality of perforations 454 extend around the entire outer faraday cage 452. The top surface 462 and the bottom surface 464 can be free of perforations so that the top and bottom of the cathode power supply assembly 460 are sealed.

[0093] In this way, a medical imaging system includes an HV box having an electronic assembly therein, wherein the electronic assembly is used to control the cathode of an X-ray tube. In order to make the box have a tandem configuration (to improve the robustness of the box), the electronic assembly includes a specific cathode assembly having a plurality of vertically stacked boards and at least two Faraday cages nested in each other so as to be assembled in the box. The nested Faraday cages are configured so as to surround the corresponding boards / electronic devices while providing as small an opening as possible for connectors and PCBs that must be outside the corresponding Faraday cages.

[0094] Figure 1 and FIG. 4A to FIG. 10 An example configuration with relative positioning of various parts is shown. In at least one example, if shown as being in direct contact or directly coupled to each other, such elements may be referred to as being in direct contact or directly coupled, respectively. Similarly, in at least one example, elements shown as being adjacent or adjacent to each other may be adjacent or adjacent to each other, respectively. For example, parts placed in coplanar contact with each other may be referred to as being in coplanar contact. For another example, in at least one example, elements positioned to be spaced apart from each other and having only space therebetween without other parts may be described and cited as such. For another example, elements shown as being located above / below / below each other, located on opposite sides or located between the left / right sides of each other may be described and cited as such relative to each other. In addition, as shown in the figure, in at least one example, the topmost element or the point of the element may be referred to as the "top" of the part, and the bottommost element or the point of the element may be referred to as the "bottom" of the part. As used herein, top / bottom, upper / lower, upper / lower may be relative to the vertical axis of the figure, and may be used to describe the position of the elements relative to each other in the figure. Thus, in one example, elements shown as being above other elements are positioned vertically above other elements. For another example, the shapes of the elements depicted in the figures may be referred to as having those shapes (e.g., such as being round, straight, planar, curved, rounded, chamfered, angled, etc.). In addition, in at least one example, elements shown as intersecting each other may be referred to as intersecting elements or intersecting each other. In addition, in one example, elements shown as being within another element or being shown as being outside another element may be described and referenced as such.

[0095] The present disclosure also provides support for an electronic assembly configured to control a cathode of an X-ray tube of a medical imaging system, the electronic assembly comprising: a plurality of boards, the plurality of boards comprising a first analog board, a first digital board, a second power board, and a third power board; and at least two Faraday cages nested in each other, the at least two Faraday cages comprising an inner Faraday cage surrounding the first digital board and an outer Faraday cage surrounding each of the plurality of boards and the inner Faraday cage. In a first example of the assembly, the electronic device of the second power board faces the electronic device of the third power board. In a second example of the assembly (optionally including the first example), the first digital board is coupled to the first analog board, a portion of the first analog board is surrounded by the outer Faraday cage, and the remaining portion of the first analog board extends to the outside of the outer Faraday cage. In a third example of the assembly (optionally including one or both of the first and second examples), the portion of the first analog board, the first digital board, the second power board, and the third power board are stacked vertically. In a fourth example of the assembly (optionally including one or more or each of the first to third examples), the assembly further includes: an interconnection board coupled to the first analog board, the second power board, and the third power board. In a fifth example of the assembly (optionally including one or more or each of the first to fourth examples), the inner faraday cage is coupled to the first analog board. In a sixth example of the assembly (optionally including one or more or each of the first to fifth examples), each of the inner faraday cage and the outer faraday cage includes a plurality of perforations. In a seventh example of the assembly (optionally including one or more or each of the first to sixth examples), the outer faraday cage is physically coupled to the second power board and the third power board via a plurality of metal rings and a plurality of fasteners.

[0096] The present disclosure also provides support for a cathode power supply assembly for a medical imaging system, the cathode power supply assembly comprising: a housing; a plurality of boards interconnected by an interconnection board, the plurality of boards and the interconnection board being arranged within the interior volume of the housing; and an inner faraday cage, the inner faraday cage enclosing a first digital board among the plurality of boards, wherein the outer faraday cage of the housing encloses each of the first digital board, the second power board, and the third power board among the plurality of boards. In a first example of the assembly, the first digital board, the second power board, and the third power board are stacked vertically so that the electronic device of the second power board faces the third power board and the electronic device of the third power board faces the second power board. In a second example of the assembly (optionally including the first example), the first digital board is mounted to a portion of a first analog board extending into the housing. In a third example of the assembly (optionally including one or both of the first and second examples), the first analog board includes a remainder, the remainder is arranged outside the housing, and the remainder includes a transformer. In a fourth example of the assembly (optionally including one or both or each of the first to third examples), each of the first digital board, the first analog board, the second power board, and the third power board extends in respective planes parallel to each other, wherein the interconnect board extends in a plane perpendicular to the respective planes, and wherein the interconnect board is electrically coupled to the first analog board, the second power board, and the third power board. In a fifth example of the assembly (optionally including one or more or each of the first to fourth examples), the plurality of boards are electrically coupled to the cathode via a cable. In a sixth example of the assembly (optionally including one or more or each of the first to fifth examples), the cathode is monopolar and wherein the cable has a length in the range of 10 m to 40 m.

[0097] The present disclosure also provides support for a medical imaging system, the medical imaging system comprising: a cathode power supply assembly, a high voltage (HV) transformer, a dynamic damper, and an HV connector coupled to an X-ray tube, wherein the dynamic damper is arranged between the HV transformer and the cathode power supply assembly, wherein a housing of the cathode power supply assembly includes an outer Faraday cage; a plurality of boards are enclosed by the housing, the plurality of boards including a first digital board, a second power supply board, and a third power supply board; a first analog board extends below the plurality of boards and a portion of the first analog board is located within the housing; and an inner Faraday cage encloses the first digital board and is arranged within an interior volume of the housing. In a first example of the system, the electronics of the first digital board extend upward from the first digital board along a vertical axis, wherein the electronics of the second power supply board extend upward from the second power supply board along the vertical axis, and wherein the electronics of the third power supply board extend downward from the third power supply board along the vertical axis. In a second example of the system (optionally including the first example), the outer faraday cage is formed by a plurality of blocks including a first outer faraday cage portion physically coupled to a second outer faraday cage portion, a top surface, and a bottom surface, wherein the top surface is positioned above the third power board and the bottom surface is positioned below the first analog board, and wherein the second power board and the third power board are located outside the inner faraday cage. In a third example of the system (optionally including one or both of the first and second examples), one or more of the inner faraday cage and the outer faraday cage include a plurality of perforations. In a fourth example of the system (optionally including one or both or each of the first to third examples), the height of the housing is equal to the height of the HV transformer, and wherein the HV transformer, the cathode power supply assembly, the dynamic damper, and the HV connector are housed in a high voltage box assembly housing. As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, the term "approximately" is understood to mean ±5% of the range.

[0098] As used herein, the element or step that is listed in the singular and begins with the word "one" or "an" should be understood as not excluding a plurality of the elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. In addition, the reference to "an embodiment" of the present invention is not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of the additional embodiment that also includes the quoted feature. In addition, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, the embodiment of "including", "comprising" or "having" the element or multiple elements with a specific characteristic may include additional such elements that do not have the characteristic. The terms "including" and "in..." are used as the concise language equivalents of the corresponding terms "including" and "wherein". In addition, the terms "first", "second" and "third" etc. are only used as marks, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements or specific position order on their objects.

[0099] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable a person skilled in the relevant art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any included methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to a person skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insignificant differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. An electronic assembly configured to control a cathode (208) of an X-ray tube (402, 202) of an imaging system (100), the electronic assembly comprising: a plurality of boards (420), the plurality of boards comprising a first analog board (470), a first digital board (510), a second power board (520), and a third power board (530); and At least two Faraday cages are nested in each other, the at least two Faraday cages comprising an inner Faraday cage (540) surrounding the first digital board (510) and an outer Faraday cage (452) surrounding each of the plurality of boards (420) and the inner Faraday cage (540).

2. The electronic assembly according to claim 1, wherein the electronic devices of the second power board (520) face the electronic devices of the third power board (530).

3. The electronic assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first digital board (510) is coupled to the first analog board (470), a portion (902) of the first analog board (470) is surrounded by the outer Faraday cage (452), and a remaining portion (904) of the first analog board (470) extends outside of the outer Faraday cage (452).

4. The electronic assembly of claim 3, wherein the portion (902) of the first analog board (470), the first digital board (510), the second power board (520), and the third power board (530) are stacked vertically.

5. The electronic assembly of claim 4, further comprising an interconnect board (560) coupled to the first analog board (470), the second power board (520), and the third power board (530).

6. The electronic assembly of claim 3, wherein the inner Faraday cage (540) is coupled to the first analog board (470).

7. The electronic assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the inner Faraday cage (540) and the outer Faraday comprises a plurality of perforations (542, 454).

8. The electronic assembly of claim 1, wherein the outer Faraday cage (452) is physically coupled to the second power plane (520) and the third power plane (530) via a plurality of eyelets (458) and a plurality of fasteners (854, 456, 652, 876, 804).

9. An imaging system, comprising: a cathode power supply assembly (460), a high voltage (HV) transformer (440), a dynamic damper (430), and an HV connector (410) coupled to an X-ray tube (402), wherein the dynamic damper (430) is arranged between the HV transformer (440) and the cathode power supply assembly (460); The housing of the cathode power supply assembly (460) includes an outer Faraday cage (452); a plurality of plates (420) are enclosed by the housing, the plurality of plates (420) including a first digital plate (510), a second power supply plate (520) and a third power supply plate (530); A first simulation board (470) extends below the plurality of boards (420), and a portion (902) of the first simulation board (470) is located within the housing; and An inner Faraday cage (540) surrounds the first digital board (510) and is disposed within the interior volume of the housing.

10. An imaging system according to claim 9, wherein the electronic devices of the first digital board (510) extend upward from the first digital board (510) along a vertical axis, wherein the electronic devices of the second power board (520) extend upward from the second power board (520) along the vertical axis, and wherein the electronic devices of the third power board (530) extend downward from the third power board (530) along the vertical axis.

11. The imaging system of claim 9, wherein the outer Faraday cage (452) is formed of a plurality of pieces, the plurality of pieces comprising a first outer Faraday cage portion physically coupled to a second outer Faraday cage portion, a top surface (462), and a bottom surface (464), wherein the top surface (462) is positioned above the third power board (530) and the bottom surface (464) is positioned below the first analog board (470), and wherein the second power board (520) and the third power board (530) are located outside of the inner Faraday cage (540).

12. The imaging system of claim 9, wherein one or more of the inner Faraday cage (540) and the outer Faraday cage (452) comprises a plurality of perforations.

13. An imaging system according to claim 9, wherein the height of the housing is equal to the height of the HV transformer (440), and wherein the HV transformer (440), the cathode power supply assembly (460), the dynamic damper (430) and the HV connector (410) are housed in a high voltage box assembly housing (401).

14. A cathode power supply assembly for an imaging system, the cathode power supply assembly comprising: shell; a plurality of plates, the plurality of plates being interconnected by an interconnection plate, the plurality of plates and the interconnection plate being arranged within an interior volume of the housing; and An inner Faraday cage surrounds a first digital board of the plurality of boards, wherein an outer Faraday cage of the housing surrounds each of the first digital board, a second power board, and a third power board of the plurality of boards.

15. A cathode power supply assembly according to claim 14, wherein the first digital board, the second power board and the third power board are stacked vertically so that the electronic devices of the second power board face the third power board and the electronic devices of the third power board face the second power board.

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