Flat emitter with compliant support end

Abstract

The invention relates to a flat emitter with compliant support ends. Various methods and systems are provided for an emitter assembly for a cathode (352) of an X-ray tube. In one example, a transmitter assembly includes: a first end (426) of a substantially planar transmitter (424) supported by a dual pole extending from a dual pole insulator assembly (420); and a second end portion (428) of the substantially planar emitter (424), the second end portion being supported by a compliant single pole insulator assembly (414).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein relate to emitters for cathodes of imaging systems (eg, X-ray imaging systems). Background Art

[0002] In an X-ray tube, ionizing radiation is generated by accelerating electrons from a cathode to an anode via an electric field in a vacuum. The electrons originate from an emitter at a cathode having an electric current flowing through it. The emitter can be heated by the current flowing through it, releasing electrons from the cathode and accelerating them toward the anode. Additionally, electrodes at different voltages can be placed around the emitter to focus the electron beam toward the anode and influence the size and position of the X-ray emission spot. The cathode can be configured with additional focusing elements, such as a focusing mechanism, for example, to further influence the size and position of the X-ray emission spot. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one embodiment, the cathode's substantially planar emitter comprises a first end of the emitter supported by a double rod extending from a double rod insulator assembly and a second end of the emitter supported by a compliant single rod insulator assembly.

[0004] 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

[0005] The present disclosure will be better understood by reading the following description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0006] Figure 1 A block diagram illustrating an example of an imaging system;

[0007] Figure 2 A pictorial view of an imaging system according to one embodiment is shown, which may be Figure 1 Implementation scheme of the imaging system;

[0008] Figure 3 Shown may include Figure 1 and / or Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cross-sectional view of a portion of an X-ray tube in an imaging system;

[0009] Figure 4 An X-ray tube (such as Figure 3 A perspective view of the cathode of an X-ray tube;

[0010] Figure 5 Shown Figure 4 a perspective view of a first example X-ray emitter assembly of a cathode;

[0011] Figure 6 Shown Figure 5 a perspective view of a dual rod insulator assembly of a first example X-ray emitter assembly;

[0012] Figure 7 Shown Figure 5 a side view of a compliant single rod insulator assembly of a first example X-ray emitter assembly;

[0013] Figure 8 Shown Figure 7 A perspective view of a compliant single-rod insulator assembly;

[0014] Figure 9 Shown Figure 4 A perspective view of a cathode comprising a compliant single-rod insulator assembly of a first example X-ray emitter assembly;

[0015] Figure 10 Shown Figure 4 a perspective view of a second example X-ray emitter assembly having a cathode;

[0016] Figure 11 Shown Figure 10 a perspective view of a second example of a compliant single-rod insulator assembly of a second example X-ray emitter assembly;

[0017] Figure 12 Shown Figure 10 a perspective view of a third example of a compliant single-rod insulator assembly of the second example X-ray emitter assembly; and

[0018] Figure 13 Shown Figure 10 A perspective view of a fourth example of a compliant single-rod insulator assembly of the second example X-ray emitter assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The following description relates to various embodiments of an emitter for a cathode of an X-ray tube. The X-ray tube may be included in an X-ray imaging system, an example of which is shown in FIG. Figure 1 The X-ray imaging system may be an interventional radiography imaging system, a fluoroscopy imaging system, a mammography imaging system, a fixed or mobile radiography (RAD) imaging system, a tomography imaging system, a computed tomography (CT) imaging system, or the like. Figure 2 An imaging system such as Figure 1A pictorial view of an X-ray imaging system. The X-ray imaging system includes an X-ray source (e.g., an X-ray tube) to generate an irradiation X-ray beam. A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the X-ray tube is shown in FIG. Figure 3 Shown. Figure 3 The X-ray tube includes an anode assembly and a cathode assembly, the cathode assembly including a cathode, such as Figure 4 The cathode assembly includes an emitter mounted in a cathode cup. Figure 5 A first example X-ray emitter assembly is shown in perspective view, wherein the emitter is a substantially flat emitter supported at a first end by a dual rod extending from a dual rod insulator assembly and at a second end by a compliant single rod insulator assembly. As used herein, compliance defines a flexible element, mechanism, or assembly that achieves force and motion transmission through elastomeric deformation. The compliant single rod insulator assembly of the first example X-ray emitter assembly includes a substantially flat support plate having a socket into which the emitter is inserted, with the substantially flat support plate perpendicular to the emitter. At the first end, the emitter is fixedly coupled to the dual rod, for example, by welding or brazing. In this manner, the emitter is rigidly positioned at the first end. At the second end, the emitter is held by the compliant single rod insulator assembly, allowing for expansion in the longitudinal and / or lateral directions. The compliant single rod insulator assembly accommodates thermal and mechanical expansion of the emitter without applying large retraining forces on the emitter that could cause deformation. A heating current is supplied to the emitter via the dual rod insulator assembly. The current is conducted into the emitter through the first rod of the double rod, into and through the emitter thereby heating the emitter, and out of the emitter through the second rod of the double rod. Figure 6 A detailed view of the double rod insulator assembly is shown, and Figures 7 to 9 A detailed view of a compliant single-rod insulator assembly is shown. Figure 10 A second example X-ray emitter assembly is shown in perspective view in FIG, wherein the emitter is a substantially flat emitter supported at a first end by a dual rod extending from a dual rod insulator assembly and supported at a second end of the emitter by a compliant single rod insulator assembly. The compliant single rod insulator assembly of the second example X-ray emitter assembly includes a single rod directly coupled to the emitter. Figures 11 to 13 Detailed views of a compliant single-rod insulator assembly of a second example X-ray emitter assembly are shown, including first, second, and third examples of compliant single-rod insulator assemblies. Figures 3 to 12 are shown approximately to scale, but other relative dimensions may be used.

[0020] Conventional X-ray imaging systems can use one of two types of emitters positioned in the focusing cup of the cathode of the X-ray tube to emit electrons and generate an X-ray beam. An electric current is sent through the emitter and heats the emitter to emit electrons. The first type of emitter is a coiled tungsten filament. The second type of emitter is a flat emitter with a substantially planar surface. Flat emitters (also called ribbon emitters) are not formed from a coiled filament / wire but are instead a substantially flat sheet of tungsten with a serpentine pattern cut through the flat sheet. Flat emitters can be more efficient than coiled emitters because the flat surface of the emitter provides more focused electron emission and emits more electrons per surface area compared to a coiled filament. A continuing goal in X-ray tube development is to design emitters that provide more emission that provides a brighter electron source (e.g., more electrons per surface area).

[0021] In conventional X-ray tube designs, the emitter may be suspended and / or positioned on an insulator in a cathode cup. Current may be supplied to the emitter via a first source at a first end of the emitter. The current may travel along the serpentine pattern of the flat emitter to heat the emitter and cause electron emission. Heating the emitter also causes thermal expansion of the emitter. However, if the flat emitter is fixed in space, the thermal expansion of the flat emitter may cause the filaments of the serpentine pattern of the emitter to contact and short-circuit. In addition, the G-load in the radial direction caused by the rotation of the X-ray tube may push the emitter and cause the emitter to compress like a spring. The compression causes the filaments of the serpentine pattern to compress and contact, which short-circuits the emitter.

[0022] Generating an X-ray beam for imaging also includes rotating the X-ray tube about the imaging region to, for example, acquire projection data at different energy levels. Rotating the X-ray tube about the central axis exerts centrifugal forces on the X-ray tube and, therefore, on the emitter. The centrifugal forces can be, for example, 50 G or greater. The centrifugal forces are felt by the emitter and can cause the emitter to move and short-circuit. For example, the emitter can move within the cathode cup and / or its shape can deform, which can cause the coils of coiled wire or portions of the serpentine pattern of the flat emitter to contact each other and / or the cathode cup and short-circuit. This is undesirable because a short circuit can degrade the emitter and render the emitter, and therefore the X-ray tube, inoperable. Therefore, it is desirable to prevent short-circuiting of the emitter when high external forces (e.g., centrifugal forces due to rotation) are applied to the emitter.

[0023] Therefore, a design for an emitter is desired that resists short circuits caused by thermal expansion, movement, and compression of the emitter. A substantially flat emitter is described herein, comprising a first end of the emitter supported by a dual rod extending from a dual rod insulator assembly and a second end of the emitter supported by a compliant single rod insulator assembly. The first end of the emitter is fixed in position (e.g., in a cathode cup) by the dual rod insulator assembly, and the position of the second end of the emitter can be adjusted axially and vertically via the compliant single rod insulator. The dual rod insulator assembly provides current input and current output for the emitter in the coplanar single insulator assembly. The coplanar positioning of the dual rods and the variable height positioning of the compliant single rod insulator assembly achieve planar positioning of the emitter, which eliminates deforming forces applied in the vertical direction (e.g., perpendicular to the planar surface of the emitter) that are present in conventional emitter assemblies. The emitter can have a variety of configurations, including a single-pass emitter or a dual-pass emitter. In addition, the compliant single rod insulator assembly can have various configurations to achieve movement and thermal expansion of the emitter. As used herein, "compliant" defines a flexible element, mechanism, or assembly that achieves force and motion transmission through elastomeric deformation. In a first example, a compliant single-rod insulator includes a substantially flat support plate including a socket, wherein an emitter is inserted into the socket and the substantially flat support plate is perpendicular to the emitter. The compliant portion of the compliant single-rod insulator assembly can be at the emitter-support plate interface, and in other examples, the compliant region can be at the support plate-single-rod interface. The emitter can move within the socket of the substantially flat support plate, and / or the substantially flat support plate can move within the socket of the single-rod, which may be due to thermal expansion of the emitter during heating and / or due to rotation of an X-ray tube in which the emitter is positioned.

[0024] In another example, the compliant single rod insulator assembly may include an expansion joint coupled to the emitter, and the expansion joint is inserted into a socket of the single rod of the compliant single rod insulator assembly. Additional examples of compliant single rod insulator assemblies include a single rod that is directly coupled to the emitter and coupled to a single rod extending from the insulator via a pin joint. The emitter is movable within the socket of the single rod, the expansion joint and the emitter are movable relative to the single rod, and / or the emitter is movable relative to the single rod via the pin joint, which may be due to thermal expansion of the emitter during heating and / or due to rotation of the X-ray tube in which the emitter is positioned. Each embodiment of the emitter, dual rod insulator assembly, and compliant single rod insulator assembly enables thermal expansion of the emitter and movement of the emitter in response to centrifugal forces and heating of the emitter in a manner that avoids shorting of the emitter due to contact of the serpentine pattern filaments with each other and / or with the cathode cup.

[0025] Technical advantages of the system disclosed herein include a simple and compact emitter for generating an X-ray beam that does not significantly increase the complexity, footprint, or weight of the X-ray emitter assembly while increasing the efficiency of the emitter by reducing emitter degradation due to short circuits and increasing the surface area for electron emission. Additionally, the X-ray emitter configuration described herein can be used to increase the focusing accuracy of the electron beam compared to conventional coiled filaments because the electrons are projected from a substantially flat planar surface of the emitter.

[0026] Before further discussing the substantially flat emitter having a fixed end and a compliant end, an example imaging system in which the emitter may be implemented is shown. Figure 1 , a block diagram of an embodiment of an imaging system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown, which is configured to acquire raw image data and process the image data for display and / or analysis. It should be understood that various embodiments are applicable to numerous X-ray imaging systems that implement X-ray tubes, such as radiographic imaging (RAD) imaging systems, mammographic imaging systems, fluoroscopic imaging systems, tomographic imaging systems, or CT imaging systems. The following discussion of the imaging system 100 is merely an example of one such specific implementation and is not intended to be limiting with respect to modality.

[0027] like Figure 1 As shown, the imaging system 100 includes an X-ray tube 112 that is configured to project a beam of X-rays 114 through an object 116. The object 116 may include a human subject, a piece of luggage, or other object desired to be scanned. The X-ray tube 112 may be a conventional X-ray tube that produces X-rays 114 having an energy spectrum typically ranging from thirty (30) keV to two hundred (200) keV. The X-rays 114 pass through the object 116 and, after being attenuated, impinge on a detector assembly 118. Each detector module in the detector assembly 118 generates an analog electrical signal that represents the intensity of the impinging X-ray beam as it passes through the object 116, and therefore represents the attenuated beam. In one embodiment, the detector assembly 118 is a scintillator-based detector assembly, however, it is also contemplated that direct conversion type detectors (e.g., CdTe, CZT, Si detectors, etc.) may also be implemented.

[0028] The processor 120 receives signals from the detector assembly 118 and generates an image corresponding to the scanned object 116. A computer 122 communicates with the processor 120 to enable an operator to control scanning parameters and view the generated images using an operator console 124. That is, the operator console 124 includes some form of operator interface, such as a keyboard, mouse, voice-activated controller, or any other suitable input device that allows the operator to control the imaging system 100 and view reconstructed images or other data from the computer 122 on a display unit 126. In addition, the operator console 124 allows the operator to store the generated images in a storage device 128, which may include a hard drive, floppy disk, optical disk, etc. The operator can also use the operator console 124 to provide commands and instructions to the computer 122 for controlling the source controller 130 that provides power and timing signals to the x-ray tube 112.

[0029] Figure 2 An exemplary CT system 200 configured for CT imaging is illustrated. The CT system 200 may be Figure 1 Specifically, the CT system 200 is configured to perform CT scans on a subject 212 (e.g., Figure 1 The CT system 200 may be configured to image an object 116 (such as a patient, an inanimate object, one or more manufactured parts), and / or a foreign object (such as a dental implant, a stent, and / or a contrast agent present in the body). In one embodiment, the CT system 200 includes a gantry 202, which in turn may further include at least one X-ray tube 204 (e.g., the X-ray tube 112) configured to project an X-ray radiation beam (e.g., the X-ray 114 beam) for imaging a subject 212 lying on an examination table 214. Specifically, the X-ray tube 204 is configured to project the X-ray radiation beam toward a detector array 208 (e.g., the detector assembly 118) positioned on opposite sides of the gantry 202. In certain embodiments, the X-ray tube 204 is configured to traverse different angular positions around the subject 212 to acquire desired projection data. Thus, the gantry 202 and components mounted thereon may be configured to rotate about a center of rotation 206 for acquiring projection data at, for example, different energy levels. Alternatively, in embodiments where the projection angle relative to the subject 212 changes over time, the mounted component may be configured to move along a generally curved line rather than along a segment of a circle.

[0030] although Figure 2A single X-ray tube 204 is depicted, but in certain embodiments, multiple X-ray tubes and detectors may be employed to project multiple X-ray radiation beams for acquiring projection data at different energy levels corresponding to the patient. In some embodiments, the X-ray tube 204 can implement dual-energy Gemstone Spectral Imaging (GSI) by rapidly switching the peak kilovolt voltage (kVp). In some embodiments, the X-ray detector employed is a photon-counting detector capable of distinguishing X-ray photons of different energies. In other embodiments, two sets of X-ray tubes and detectors are used to generate dual-energy projections, with one set at a low kVp and the other set at a high kVp. It should be understood that the methods described herein can be implemented using both single-energy acquisition techniques and dual-energy acquisition techniques.

[0031] In some CT imaging system configurations, an X-ray tube projects a cone-shaped beam of X-ray radiation that is collimated to lie in the XYZ plane of a Cartesian coordinate system and is often referred to as the "imaging plane." The X-ray radiation beam passes through an object being imaged, such as a patient or subject. The X-ray radiation beam, after being attenuated by the object, strikes an array of detector elements. The intensity of the attenuated X-ray radiation beam received at the detector array depends on the attenuation of the radiation beam by the object. Each detector element of the array generates a separate electrical signal that is a measure of the X-ray beam attenuation at that detector location. The attenuation measurements from all detector elements are acquired individually to produce a transmit profile.

[0032] In some CT systems, a gantry is used to rotate the X-ray tube and detector array around the object to be imaged in the imaging plane so that the angle at which the radiation beam intersects the object is constantly changing. A set of X-ray radiation attenuation measurements (e.g., projection data) from the detector array at one gantry angle is called a "view." A "scan" of an object includes a set of views made at different gantry angles or viewing angles during one rotation of the X-ray tube and detector. It is envisioned that the benefits of the methods described herein derive from medical imaging modalities other than CT, and therefore, as used herein, the term "view" is not limited to the use described above with respect to projection data from one gantry angle. The term "view" is used to refer to a data acquisition whenever there are multiple data acquisitions from different angles (whether from CT, positron emission tomography (PET), or single photon emission CT (SPECT) acquisitions), and / or any other modality (including modalities yet to be developed), and their combinations in fusion embodiments.

[0033] The projection data is processed to reconstruct an image corresponding to a two-dimensional slice acquired through the object, or in some examples where the projection data includes multiple views or scans, an image corresponding to a three-dimensional rendering of the object. One method for reconstructing an image from a set of projection data is known in the art as filtered back projection. Transmission and emission tomography reconstruction techniques also include statistical iterative methods such as MLEM and ordered subset expectation reconstruction techniques, as well as iterative reconstruction techniques. The method converts attenuation measurements from the scans into integers known as "CT numbers" or "Houns units," which are used to control the brightness of corresponding pixels on a display device.

[0034] Figure 3 Examples may include Figure 1 and / or Figure 2 Schematic diagram of a cross section of an X-ray tube 300 in an imaging system. For example, the X-ray tube 300 may be Figure 1 X-ray tube 112 and / or Figure 2 2. An exemplary embodiment of an X-ray tube 204. The X-ray tube 300 includes an anode 348, a cathode 352, and a cathode cup 362 for the cathode 352. Figures 3 to 13 Axis system 301 is provided for reference in FIG. In one example, the z-axis can be a vertical axis (e.g., parallel to the gravity axis), the y-axis can be a transverse axis (e.g., a horizontal axis), and the z-axis can be a longitudinal axis. However, in other examples, these axes can have other orientations. As described herein with respect to Figures 4 to 13 As further described, X-ray tube 300 also includes an emitter assembly positioned within cathode cup 362, the emitter assembly including an emitter having a first end supported by a dual rod extending from a dual rod insulator assembly, and a second end of the emitter supported by a compliant single rod insulator assembly. Before further discussing the emitter assembly, an example X-ray tube in which the emitter assembly may be implemented is shown.

[0035] The X-ray tube 300 includes an anode assembly 342 and a cathode assembly 344 within a frame 346 that houses an anode 348 having a target 366, a bearing assembly 350, and a cathode 352. The frame 346 defines a region of relatively low pressure (e.g., a vacuum) compared to the surroundings, within which high voltages may exist. Additionally, the frame 346 may be positioned within a housing (not shown) filled with a cooling medium (such as oil), which may also provide high voltage insulation. Although the anode 348 and target 366 are described above as common components of the X-ray tube 300, in alternative X-ray tube embodiments, the anode 348 and target 366 may be separate components.

[0036] In operation, an electron beam is generated by cathode assembly 344. Specifically, the emitter assembly of cathode 352 receives one or more electrical signals via a series of electrical leads 356. The electrical signals heat the emitters of the emitter assembly, causing the emitters to emit electrons in an electron beam. The electron beam occupies space 354 between cathode 352 and target 366 of anode 348. The electrical signals may be timing / control signals that cause cathode 352 to emit an electron beam at one or more energies and at one or more frequencies. The electrical signals may also at least partially control the electrical potential between cathode 352 and anode 348. Cathode 352 includes a central insulating housing 358 from which a mask 360 extends. Mask 360 encloses electrical leads 356, which extend to a cathode cup 362 mounted at the end of mask 360. In some embodiments, cathode cup 362 acts as an electrostatic lens, focusing electrons emitted from the emitters within cathode cup 362 to form an electron beam.

[0037] In the case of CT applications, when high-speed electrons of the electron beam are directed from the cathode 352 to the target 366 formed on the anode 348 via a potential difference of, for example, sixty thousand (60,000) volts or more between the cathode and the target, X-rays 364 are generated. The X-rays 364 pass through a radiation emission path 368 formed in the frame 346 toward a detector array (such as Figure 1 The detector assembly 118 and / or Figure 2 Detector 208) emits.

[0038] The anode assembly 342 includes a rotor 372 and a stator (not shown) that is located outside the X-ray tube 300 and surrounds the rotor 372 for causing the anode 348 to rotate during operation. The anode 348 is rotatably supported by a bearing assembly 350, which, when rotated, also causes the anode 348 to rotate about its centerline 370. Thus, the centerline 370 defines the axis of rotation of the anode 348 and the bearing assembly 350. As shown, the anode 348 has an annular shape that includes an annular opening 374 at its center for receiving the bearing assembly 350.

[0039] The anode 348 can be fabricated to include a variety of metals or alloys, such as tungsten, molybdenum, copper, or any material that contributes to bremsstrahlung (e.g., decelerating radiation) when bombarded by electrons. The target 366 of the anode 348 can be selected to have a relatively high refractory value in order to withstand the heat generated by the electrons striking the anode 348. In addition, the space between the cathode assembly 344 and the anode 348 is evacuated (e.g., as part of the vacuum of the X-ray tube 300) to minimize collisions of the electrons with other atoms and maximize the electrical potential.

[0040] To prevent the anode 348 from overheating when bombarded by electrons, the rotor 372 rotates the anode 348 at a high speed (e.g., 90 Hz to 250 Hz) about the centerline 370. In addition to the rotation of the anode 348 within the frame 346, in CT applications, the x-ray tube 300 as a whole is caused to rotate around an object (such as a laser beam) at a rate of typically 1 Hz or faster. Figure 1 The object 116 of the imaging system 100 is rotated. For example, as shown relative to Figure 2 As depicted, the gantry 202 and its components (eg, including the X-ray tube 204 ) may be configured to rotate about a center of rotation 206 .

[0041] Different embodiments of the bearing assembly 350 may be formed, such as with a plurality of suitable ball bearings, but in the exemplary embodiment shown, the bearing assembly comprises a liquid metal hydrodynamic bearing having sufficient load carrying capacity and acceptable acoustic noise levels to permit the bearing to be used in a conventional manner. Figure 1 The imaging system 100 operates within the embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Generally speaking, the bearing assembly 350 includes a stationary component, such as a central shaft 376, and a rotating portion, such as a sleeve 378 to which the anode 348 is attached. Figure 3 The central shaft 376 is described as a fixed component of the bearing assembly 350 and the sleeve 378 is described as a rotating component of the bearing assembly 350, but embodiments of the present disclosure are also applicable to embodiments in which the central shaft 376 is the rotating shaft and the sleeve 378 is the fixed component. In such a configuration, the anode 348 will rotate as the central shaft 376 rotates.

[0043] The central shaft 376 may optionally include a coolant flow path 380 through which a coolant (not shown) (such as oil) may flow to cool the bearing assembly 350. Thus, the coolant enables heat generated from the anode 348 of the X-ray tube 300 to be extracted from the anode and transferred externally from the X-ray tube 300. In a straddle-mounted X-ray tube configuration, the coolant flow path 380 extends along the longitudinal length of the X-ray tube 300 (e.g., along the centerline 370). In alternative embodiments, the coolant flow path 380 may extend through a portion of the X-ray tube 300, such as in a configuration in which the X-ray tube 300 is cantilevered when placed in an imaging system.

[0044] As compared to Figure 3 Briefly described, the cathode cup 362 may act as an electrostatic lens that focuses electrons emitted from the emitter into the cathode cup 362 to form an electron beam. Figure 4 A perspective view 400 and a cross-sectional perspective view 450 of a cathode cup 402 are shown with an X-ray emitter assembly 410 positioned therein. The cathode cup 362 may be Figure 3 362. The X-ray emitter assembly 410 can have various configurations, including a first end of a substantially flat emitter supported by a dual rod extending from a dual rod insulator assembly, a second end of a substantially flat emitter supported by a compliant single rod insulator assembly. Figure 4 A first example transmitter assembly is shown, as shown with respect to Figures 5 to 9 The second example X-ray emitter assembly may alternatively be positioned in the cathode cup 362 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, such as with respect to Figures 10 to 13 described.

[0045] Figure 4 The cathode cup 362 has a cylindrical shape with a central cutout 404 for positioning an X-ray emitter assembly 410 therein. As shown in a cross-sectional perspective view 450, the central cutout 404 includes a partial passage 406 in which a dual-rod insulator assembly 412 of the X-ray emitter assembly 410 is positioned, and a through passage 408 in which a compliant single-rod insulator assembly 414 of the X-ray emitter assembly 410 is positioned. The dual-rod insulator assembly 412 includes a first rod 416 and a second rod 418 extending from a dual-rod insulator 420. The dual-rod insulator assembly 412 can be brazed into the cathode cup 362 at the partial passage 406. In other examples, the dual-rod insulator assembly 412 can be welded into the cathode cup 362 at the partial passage 406. The dual-rod insulator 420 can be vertically spaced apart from the cathode cup 362 such that a space 422 can exist therebetween. A first rod 416 and a second rod 418 extend from the dual rod insulator 420, through the space 422, and to the emitter 424 of the X-ray emitter assembly 410. The dual rod insulator assembly 412 positions the X-ray emitter assembly 410 in the cathode cup 362 in a manner such that the emitter 424 is rigidly supported at a first end 426 of the emitter 424. As further described herein, the compliant single rod insulator assembly 414 can have various configurations. Typically, the compliant single rod insulator assembly 414 positions the emitter 424 in the cathode cup 362 such that the emitter 424 is compliantly supported at a second end 428 of the emitter 424. The compliant support of the emitter 424 by the compliant single rod insulator assembly 414 applies rigid radial support to the emitter 424 (e.g., along the z-axis and y-axis) and enables axial movement of the emitter 424 (e.g., along the x-axis). The radial direction and the axial direction are described herein with respect to the cathode cup 362. With respect to Figures 5 to 13 Further details are described regarding each of the dual rod insulator assembly 412 and the compliant single rod insulator assembly 414. The cathode cup 362 can be formed at least in part from molybdenum.

[0046] Emitter 424 is a substantially flat emitter having a planar emitting surface. Figure 4As shown, emitter 424 is a dual-pass ribbon emitter with a planar emitting surface, including a first passage 430 and a second passage 432, each of which has a serpentine pattern along a first portion 434 of the length 436 of emitter 424. First passage 430 and second passage 432 may be separated from each other by a gap 438 for a second portion 440 of the length 436 of emitter 424, where second portion 440 includes first portion 434. The serpentine pattern includes a series of connected filaments with a gap between each curve of the serpentine pattern. Between first passage 430 and second passage 432 at first end 426, gap 438 may have a greater width (e.g., along the x-axis) than the width of gap 438 between first passage 430 and second passage 432 along second portion 440 of length 436. At first end 426, emitter may include radially aligned first and second through-holes 448 and 452, and may provide ventilation for the rods of dual-rod insulator assembly 412, as further described herein. The first and second vias 430 and 432 are connected at the second end 428 through a planar portion of the emitter 424 that does not include a serpentine pattern or a through-hole.

[0047] In other examples, a substantially planar emitter (e.g., emitter 424) includes a first end (e.g., first end 426) supported by at least one rod (e.g., first rod 416 and / or second rod 418) extending from an insulator assembly (e.g., insulator assembly 412), and a second end (e.g., second end 428) supported by a substantially planar support plate including a socket, wherein the second end is inserted into the socket and the substantially planar support plate is perpendicular to the planar emitting surface. This configuration is Figure 4A variation of the configuration shown can be used when transmitter 424 is configured as a single-pass transmitter. In some examples, transmitter 424 can be a single-pass transmitter having a serpentine pattern. For example, first channel 430 and second channel 432 of a dual-pass ribbon transmitter can be formed as a single channel without gap 438 therebetween. Instead of having a first serpentine path of first channel 430 extending along half the width of transmitter 424 (e.g., along the x-axis) (e.g., the width of first channel 430) and a second serpentine path of second channel 432 extending along half the width of transmitter 424 (e.g., the width of second channel 432), the serpentine pattern can extend along the width of transmitter 424 in a single-pass transmitter. The single-pass transmitter is supported on a first side (e.g., at a first end 426 relative to transmitter 424) by a variation of the dual-rod insulator assembly 412. A variation of a dual-rod insulator assembly 412 configured for a single-pass transmitter includes a single rod (e.g., first rod 416) extending through an insulator configured with a single filament feedthrough. The insulator can be formed of ceramic and / or another material or combination of materials sufficient to insulate the cathode cup 362 from the single rod. In some embodiments, the single rod can be welded or brazed into the insulator. In other examples, the single rod can be loosely coupled to the insulator. The single rod can be formed of niobium or other conductive materials. The single-pass transmitter is supported on a second side opposite the first side (e.g., at a second end 428 relative to the transmitter 424) by a compliant single-rod insulator assembly 414.

[0048] Figure 5 A perspective view 500 is shown of a first example transmitter assembly 502 that may be implemented as Figure 4 X-ray emitter assembly 410. Figure 4 The elements of the first example transmitter assembly 502 described are numbered identically. Figure 4 As depicted, a first end 426 of the emitter 424 is rigidly supported by the dual-rod insulator assembly 412, and a second end 428 of the emitter 424 is compliantly supported by the compliant single-rod insulator assembly 414. The rigid support of the emitter 424 by the dual-rod insulator assembly 412 prevents movement (e.g., radial and axial) of the first end 426 of the emitter 424 within the cathode cup 362. The compliant support of the emitter 424 by the compliant single-rod insulator assembly 414 prevents radial movement of the emitter 424 and enables axial movement of the emitter 424. The rigid and compliant support of the emitter 424 enables some movement of the emitter 424, such as thermal expansion in the axial direction (e.g., along the x-axis), which prevents compression of the serpentine pattern of the emitter 424 and prevents the emitter 424 from shorting due to contact of the filaments.

[0049] Current may be provided to the emitter 424 by one or more of the first rod 416 and the second rod 418 of the dual rod insulator assembly 412 to heat the emitter 424 and generate electrons therefrom that may be used to generate a charge, such as a charge, relative to a charge. Figure 3 The current is an example of a heating current that heats emitter 424. As shown by a series of arrows 504, the current may travel up first rod 416, along the length 436 of emitter 424 in a serpentine pattern from first end 426 to second end 428, along the length 436 of emitter 424 in a serpentine pattern from second end 428 to first end 426, and out of emitter 424 via second rod 418. In another example, the current may travel from both first rod 416 and second rod 418 to support plate 512, such that the current travels from first end 426 to second end 428 and exits emitter 424 via single rod 508 of compliant single rod insulator assembly 414. The current feedthroughs at first end 426 and second end 428 are therefore coplanar. Single rod 508 may not be conductive and may be used to compliantly support emitter 424. In some embodiments where the transmitter 424 is configured as a single-pass transmitter, the compliant single-rod insulator assembly 414 may be electrically insulating and configured to serve as a compliant electrical connection as well as a compliant support.

[0050] The first end 426 of the emitter 424 is spot welded to each of the first rod 416 and the second rod 418 to secure the emitter 424 in the space at the first end 426. If the emitter 424 were secured at the second end 428 and in the space at the first end 426, the emitter 424 could be subjected to G-forces from the centrifugal force acting on the emitter 424 during rotation of the X-ray tube without having an outlet or space for the emitter 424 to move / deform (other than the compression of the serpentine pattern of filaments). The compression of the serpentine pattern of filaments could cause two or more filaments to come into contact, which could cause the emitter 424 to short-circuit and no longer be used to emit electrons. The compliant single-rod insulator assembly 414 at the second end 428 of the emitter 424 also provides a current return path for the current flowing through the emitter 424 back to the current generator of the X-ray tube. Thus, the first example emitter assembly 502 described herein simultaneously addresses both thermal expansion and G-forces applied to the emitter 424 of the X-ray tube.

[0051] The double-rod insulator assembly 412 includes a first rod 416 and a second rod 418 extending from a double-rod insulator 420. The double-rod insulator 420 is a ceramic insulator (e.g., formed of ceramic). In other embodiments, the double-rod insulator 420 may be formed of another material or combination of materials that sufficiently insulates the cathode cup 362 from the first and second rods 418. In some embodiments, the first and second rods 416, 418 may be welded or brazed into the double-rod insulator 420. In other examples, the first and second rods 416, 418 may be loosely coupled to the double-rod insulator 420. The double-rod insulator 420 includes two filament feedthrough channels 544 in which the first and second rods 416, 418 are positioned. The first and second rods 416, 418 are brazed to the double-rod insulator 420. The first and second rods 416, 418 may be formed of niobium or other conductive materials.

[0052] The first rod 416 and the second rod 418 can provide current to the emitter 424 and can be examples of electrical leads 356 of the X-ray tube 300. The first rod 416 and the second rod 418 are fixedly coupled to the emitter 424 at a top surface 506 of each of the first rod 416 and the second rod 418. For example, each of the first rod 416 and the second rod 418 can be coupled to the emitter 424 via a tungsten-niobium weld. Figure 4 As described above, the launcher 424 may include through-holes 448, 452 vertically aligned with each of the first and second rods 416, 418. The through-holes 448, 452 may have a smaller diameter than the diameters of the first and second rods 416, 418 and may provide ventilation for each of the first and second rods 416, 418. The first and second rods 416, 418 may be machined, for example, via EDM, such that the top surfaces of the first and second rods 418 are coplanar. EDMing the first and second rods 416, 418 at their interface with the launcher 424 may remove distorting forces on the launcher that may exist when the first and second rods 416, 418 are at different heights. This enables the emitter to be positioned planarly on top of the first rod 416 and the second rod 418, with no height difference between the first passage 430 and the second passage 432 of the emitter 424 (e.g., the first passage 430 and the second passage 432 are coplanar and there is no vertical deformation along the y-axis between the first passage 430 and the second passage 432). The design also provides compliant support for the emitter 424 while not significantly increasing the footprint of the X-ray emitter assembly 410. This enables the potential inclusion of one or more additional emitters that can be stacked in the cathode cup 362. For example, a second emitter can be positioned in the cathode cup 362, parallel to the emitter 424.

[0053] The compliant single-rod insulator assembly 414 at the second end 428 of the emitter 424 includes a single rod 508 extending from an insulator 510, and a support plate 512 coupled to the single rod 508 and the emitter 424. The single rod 508 is configured to provide rigid radial support (e.g., along the z-axis) to the emitter 424 and to enable axial movement (e.g., along the x-axis) of the emitter 424. The support plate 512 may be formed of, for example, niobium and may be electroplated with gold to provide conductivity to the emitter 424 and the single rod 508. The single rod 508 may be formed of copper or another conductive material.

[0054] The support plate 512 can be a substantially flat support plate having at least a first socket 514. The first socket 514 is configured to have the launcher 424 positioned therein and to hold the launcher 424 in space while providing expansion space for thermal expansion of the launcher 424 without compressing the launcher 424 and without causing compressive forces on the filaments of the launcher 424. The support plate 512 is positioned perpendicular to the launcher 424 so that the first socket 514 is parallel to the length 436 of the launcher 424. The second end 428 of the launcher 424 can be inserted into the first socket 514 of the substantially flat support plate 512. As shown with respect to Figures 7 to 9 As further described, the compliant region of the compliant single-pole insulator assembly 414 can be at the transmitter-support plate junction 516, and in other examples, the compliant region can be at the support plate-single-pole junction 518. In some examples, the substantially planar support plate 512 also includes a second socket 520, which can be parallel to the first socket 514 and of the same or different length.

[0055] The single rod 508 includes a third socket 522 in which the support plate 512 is positioned. The compliant single rod insulator assembly 414 can be positioned relative to the launcher 424 so that the single rod 508 and the support plate 512 are positioned approximately at the center of the width 524 of the launcher 424. The single rod 508 can be aligned with the gap 438 between the first passage 430 and the second passage 432 of the launcher, as shown relative to the Figure 4As described. The support plate 512 may have frictional interference with the single rod 508 so that the support plate 512 snaps and / or clamps into the third socket 522 of the single rod 508. The joint of the support plate 512 and the third socket 522 prevents vertical movement of the emitter 424 (e.g., along the y-axis). This enables the emitter 424 to expand radially to relieve stress caused by thermal expansion (due to heating of the emitter) and G-force compression of the emitter (due to rotation / spin of the emitter's X-ray tube), thereby preventing shorting of the emitter 424. The insulator 510 of the compliant single rod insulator assembly 414 may have a cylindrical shape, and the single rod 508 may pass through the center of the insulator 510. The support ring 526 may circumferentially surround at least a portion of the insulator 510 and be positioned between the insulator 510 and the cathode cup 362 to position the insulator 510 therein. With respect to Figures 7 to 9 Further details of the compliant single rod insulator assembly 414 are described.

[0056] As described above, the planar emitting surface of the emitter 424 is positioned using the coplanar top surfaces of the first and second rods 416, 418. The vertical position of the emitter 424 at the second end 428 of the emitter 424 can be adjusted by a compliant support on the second end 428 so that the planar emitting surface is coplanar along the length of the emitter 424 (e.g., in the zx plane). For example, the second end 428 of the emitter 424 can be positioned in the first or second receptacle 514, 520 of the support plate 512. Additionally or alternatively, the vertical position of the emitter 424 can be adjusted by adjusting the position of the support plate 512 within the single rod 508 and / or adjusting the position of the single rod 508 within the insulator 510. Thus, the configuration of the compliant single rod insulator 510 provides multiple points at which the vertical position of the emitter 424 can be adjusted to provide the emitter 424 with a planar configuration extending from the first end 426 to the second end 428. Positioning the emitter 424 to be planar in the cathode cup 362 can help reduce distortional forces applied to the emitter 424 during heating of the emitter 424 (e.g., during thermal expansion of the emitter 424) and distortional forces from G-forces caused by rotation of the X-ray beam.

[0057] Figure 6 A perspective view 600 of the dual rod insulator assembly 412 coupled to the emitter 424 is shown. The dual rod insulator assembly 412 is configured to provide rigid support to the emitter 424 and position the emitter 424 in the cathode cup 362, as shown relative to the cathode cup 362. Figures 4 and 5 As described above, current may be provided to the transmitter 424 via one or more of the first rod 416 and the second rod 418. Figure 4As shown, first rod 416 and second rod 418 are insulated from cathode cup 362 by double rod insulator 420 so that current does not pass from first rod 416 and / or second rod 418 to cathode cup 362. Double rod insulator 420 may also insulate first rod 416 and second rod 418 from each other.

[0058] The double rod insulator 420 described herein has a stepped form that enables the double rod insulator to be positioned within and brazed to the portion of the passage 406 of the cathode cup 362. In other examples, the double rod insulator 420 can have different configurations that adequately insulate the first rod 416 and the second rod 418 from the cathode cup 362 while also positioning the X-ray emitter assembly 410 within the cathode cup 362 and providing rigid support at the first end 426 of the emitter 424.

[0059] The first rod 416 and the second rod 418 are arranged such that the top surface 506 of each of the first rod 416 and the second rod 418 are coplanar. Each of the first rod 416 and the second rod 418 is coupled to the transmitter 424 at the respective top surface 506. For example, the top surface 506 of the first rod 416 is coupled to the first passage 430 of the transmitter 424, and the top surface 506 of the second rod 418 is coupled to the second passage 432 of the transmitter 424. Because the top surface 506 of each of the first rod 416 and the second rod 418 are coplanar, the first passage 430 and the second passage 432 of the transmitter 424 are coplanar. Stated another way, there may be no height difference (e.g., along the y-axis) between the first passage 430 and the second passage 432. The coplanar positioning of the first passage 430 and the second passage 432 of the emitter 424 can reduce deformation of the emitter 424 caused by centrifugal forces applied to the emitter 424 during thermal heating of the emitter 424 and / or due to rotation of the X-ray tube in which the emitter 424 is positioned.

[0060] Figure 7 A side view 700 of a first example compliant single-rod insulator assembly 702 is shown, which is an example of a compliant single-rod insulator assembly 414 coupled to the emitter 424 of the first example emitter assembly 502. The first example compliant single-rod insulator assembly 702 is configured to provide compliant support to the emitter 424, thereby applying rigid radial support and enabling axial movement (e.g., along the x-axis) of the emitter 424. The compliant support can enable movement of the emitter 424, which can be caused by thermal expansion of the emitter 424 during heating and / or due to rotation of an X-ray tube in which the emitter 424 is positioned.

[0061] As briefly described above, the compliant single-pole insulator assembly 414 can have various configurations, with different positioning of the compliant region. The compliant region can be at the emitter-support plate junction 516, and in other examples, the compliant region can be at the support plate-single-pole junction 710. In a first example, the single-pole 508 is welded to the support plate 512 at the support plate-single-pole junction 710, and the compliant region is at the emitter-support plate junction 712. The single-pole 508 can be welded to the support plate 512. For example, the single-pole 508 can be welded to the support plate 512 via a niobium-niobium weld and / or another welding material. The emitter 424 can be removably coupled to the support plate 512. For example, the emitter 424 can be positioned in the first socket 514 and can be unwelded to the substantially flat support plate 512. The length 436 of the first socket 514 and the position of the substantially flat support plate 512 are designed so that the emitter 424 does not make face-sharing contact with the end of the first socket 514. The length of the first socket 514 can be configured such that the transmitter 424 does not extend fully into the length of the first socket 514, thereby providing room for thermal expansion of the transmitter 424. The first socket 514 can provide frictional interference between the support plate 512 and the transmitter 424, which holds the second end 428 of the transmitter 424 in place within the support plate 512 and secures the transmitter 424 in a compliant manner such that the transmitter 424 can move in a plane without twisting. In this manner, when the transmitter 424 can move along the first axial direction indicated by the first arrow 720, the compliant single-rod insulator assembly 414 can conform to the movement of the transmitter 424 at the transmitter-support plate interface 516.

[0062] In a second example, the emitter 424 is welded to the support plate 512 at the emitter-support plate joint 712 (e.g., within the first socket 514), and the compliant region is at the support plate-single-rod joint 710. The emitter 424 can be positioned in the first socket 514 of the support plate 512 as described above and welded to the support plate 512. For example, the emitter 424 can be welded to the support plate 512 via a tungsten-niobium weld and / or another welding material. The support plate 512 can be positioned in the single-rod 508 at the third socket 522, but may not be welded or otherwise fixedly coupled to the single-rod. The third socket 522 can be configured to provide frictional interference between the support plate 512 and the single-rod 508. Thermal expansion of the emitter 424 can be transferred to the support plate 512 via the tungsten-niobium weld at the emitter-support plate joint 712, allowing the support plate 512 to thermally expand in the vertical direction (e.g., along the y-axis). Described another way, support plate 512 may expand in the direction indicated by second arrow 724, which may prevent emitter 424 from moving or twisting vertically (eg, out of the xz plane).

[0063] Steering Figure 8 , showing Figure 7 A perspective view 800 of a first example compliant single pole insulator assembly 702 is shown. The perspective view 800 shows the support plate 512 positioned in the third socket 522 of the single pole 508. Figure 7 As described above, in some examples of compliant single-pole insulator assembly 414, the compliant region may be at the emitter-support plate junction 712, and in other examples, the compliant region may be at the support plate-single-pole junction 710. The compliant region at the support plate-single-pole junction 710 includes expansion space 806 into which the support plate 512 may expand in response to thermal expansion of the emitter 424.

[0064] Steering Figure 9 , showing the positioning in Figure 4 The cathode cup 362 is relative to Figures 7 and 8 A cross-sectional view 900 of a first example compliant single-rod insulator assembly 702 is depicted. Figures 4 and 5 As described above, the insulator 510, the single rod 508, and the support ring 526 of the compliant single rod insulator assembly 414 can be positioned in the cathode cup 362 to provide rigid radial support and enable axial movement of the emitter 424. The support ring 526 can engage the bottom surface 904 of the cathode cup 362, and the insulator 510 can be coupled to the support ring 526 so that the insulator 510 and the support ring 526 have a fixed position relative to the cathode cup 362. In addition, the single rod 508 can have a fixed position in the insulator 510. As relative to Figures 7 and 8 As described, the compliant region of the first example compliant single-pole insulator assembly 702 may be at the emitter-support plate joint 712 or at the support plate-single-pole joint 710. When the compliant region is at the emitter-support plate joint 712, the first socket 514 of the support plate 512 enables constrained longitudinal movement (e.g., along the x-axis) of the emitter 424 (e.g., along the direction indicated by the bidirectional arrow 910). In this example, the support plate 512 is fixedly coupled to the single-pole 508 (e.g., at the support plate-single-pole joint 710). In the example where the compliant region is at the support plate-single-pole joint 710, the emitter 424 is fixedly coupled to the support plate 512 at the first socket 514 (e.g., at the emitter-support plate joint 712), and the support plate 512 can move (e.g., thermally expand) within the third socket 522 of the single-pole 508. For example, thermal expansion of the emitter 424 can be transmitted to the support plate 512 and cause thermal expansion of the support plate. As Figure 8As shown, the expansion space 806 in the third socket 522 between the single rod 508 and the support plate 512 can provide space for thermal expansion of the support plate 512 and prevent compression of the emitter 424, wherein compression of the emitter 424 can cause shorting of the emitter 424. Relative movement of the X-ray emitter assembly 410 is directed away from the emitter 424 and toward the support plate-single rod joint 710. In this example, the single rod 508 can be fixedly positioned in the insulator 510, and the insulator 510 can be fixedly positioned in the cathode cup 362 via the support ring 526. The two examples of positioning the compliant region in the first example compliant single rod insulator assembly thus provide rigid radial support and compliant axial support for the emitter 424.

[0065] In some examples, such as with respect to Figures 10 to 13 As further described, a compliant single-rod insulator assembly includes a single rod extending from an insulator, wherein the single rod is directly coupled to a transmitter without a support plate therebetween. Figure 10 A perspective view 1000 of a second example transmitter assembly 1002 is shown. The second example transmitter assembly 1002 is Figures 4 to 9 and may include at least some of the same elements as in the first example transmitter assembly 502. Figures 10 to 13 The dual rod insulator assembly 412 of the second example emitter assembly 1002 has the same configuration as the dual rod insulator assembly 412 of the first example emitter assembly 502 and is configured to rigidly position the first end 426 of the emitter 424 in the cathode cup 362, thereby preventing radial movement of the emitter 424 at the first end 426. The second example emitter assembly 1002 can be positioned in the cathode cup of an X-ray tube, such as Figure 4 In the cathode cup 362), as relative to Figures 4 to 9 A first example transmitter assembly 502 is described.

[0066] The second example transmitter assembly 1002 includes a second example compliant single rod insulator assembly 1004, wherein the compliant region includes an expansion joint 1006. Figures 7 to 9 As shown, the single pole 508 includes a third socket 522 . In the second exemplary compliant single pole insulator assembly 1004 , the expansion joint 1006 can be inserted into the third socket 522 of the single pole 508 . Figure 10The third socket 522 in the example of the expansion joint 1006 is shaped to interlock with the expansion joint 1006, thereby enabling lateral movement of the expansion joint 1006 (indicated by a first double-headed arrow 1008) and preventing vertical movement of the expansion joint 1006 (indicated by a second double-headed arrow 1010). The expansion joint 1006 is inserted into the third socket 522 of the single rod 508 at the first end 426 of the expansion joint 1006, and the expansion joint 1006 is coupled to the transmitter 424 at the second end 428 of the expansion joint 1006, which is opposite the first end 426. The expansion joint 1006 can be welded or otherwise fixedly coupled to the transmitter 424 at the top surface 506 of the expansion joint 1006, opposite the expansion joint-single rod joint 1012. The second example compliant single rod insulator assembly 1004 also includes: an insulator 510, which may be equivalent to the insulator 510; and an annular support 1014, which circumferentially surrounds at least a portion of the insulator 510 and can be used to fixedly position the insulator 510 and the single rod 508 in the cathode cup 362.

[0067] Steering Figure 11 , a first perspective view 1100 and a second perspective view 1150 of a second example transmitter assembly 1002 are shown. Figures 5 to 10 As described, the single rod 508 includes a third socket 522 configured to receive the expansion joint 1006. The expansion joint 1006 has a T-shape that, when inserted into the third socket 522 configured with an inverted T-shape, is prevented from moving vertically (e.g., along the y-axis) and radially (e.g., along the z-axis). The expansion joint 1006 may not be welded or otherwise fixedly coupled to the third socket 522. The positioning of the expansion joint 1006 in the third socket 522 enables linear movement (e.g., along the x-axis) of the expansion joint 1006 and the emitter 424 coupled thereto at the top surface 506. For example, when the emitter assembly is positioned with an X-ray tube (e.g., Figure 3 When the X-ray tube 300 is rotated during imaging operations, the emitter 424 may experience centrifugal forces. Figures 4 to 10 The depicted dual rod insulator assembly 412 securely / rigidly positions the emitter 424 at the first end 426 of the emitter 424 within the cathode cup 362. The second exemplary emitter assembly 1002 transmits centrifugal forces on the emitter 424 into axial movement of the expansion joint 1006 within the third socket 522 of the single rod 508, as indicated by the double-headed arrow 1106. Furthermore, during heating of the emitter 424 to emit electrons and generate an X-ray beam, the emitter 424 may thermally expand. The thermal expansion of the emitter 424 may also be converted into axial movement of the expansion joint 1006 within the third socket 522 of the single rod 508, as indicated by the double-headed arrow 1106.

[0068] Figure 12 A third example of a compliant single-pole insulator assembly 1202 is shown, including a pin joint 1204 configured to allow axial movement of a transmitter 424 and to provide rigid radial support to the transmitter 424. The third example of the compliant single-pole insulator assembly 1202 can be implemented in the second example transmitter assembly 1002, wherein the top surface 506 of the pin joint 1204 is fixedly coupled to the transmitter 424. The pin joint 1204 is positioned in the third socket 522 of the single-pole 508. In this third example of the compliant single-pole insulator assembly 1202, the third socket 522 has a rectangular shape configured to receive the flat rectangular shape of the pin joint 1204. The pin joint 1204 is positioned in the third socket 522, and the pin 1206 extends through the pin joint 1204 and the single-pole 508 to couple the pin joint 1204 to the single-pole 508. The pin 1206 is positioned perpendicular to the axial direction (e.g., the pin 1206 is positioned along the z-axis). The pin 1206 can serve as a hinge and / or pivot point at which the pin joint 1204 can move axially relative to the single rod 508. The pin joint 1204 can also provide rigid radial support to the emitter 424. For example, in response to the X-ray tube (e.g., Figure 3 The X-ray tube 300) rotates during imaging operations, and the emitter 424 may experience centrifugal forces. Figures 4 to 10 The depicted dual-rod insulator assembly 412 securely positions the emitter 424 at its first end 426 within the cathode cup 362. The third example of a compliant single-rod insulator assembly 1202 transmits centrifugal force on the emitter 424 into axial movement of the pin joint 1204 within the third socket 522 of the single rod 508, as indicated by double-headed arrow 1208. For example, the pin joint 1204 can move in an arcuate curve, where the range of motion of the curve is controlled by the pin joint 1204 contacting the single rod 508. Furthermore, during heating of the emitter 424 to emit electrons and generate an X-ray beam, the emitter 424 may thermally expand. The thermal expansion of the emitter 424 can also be translated into axial movement of the pin joint 1204 within the third socket 522 of the single rod 508, as indicated by double-headed arrow 1208.

[0069] Figure 13 A fourth example of a compliant single-rod insulator assembly 1302 is shown, in which the single-rod 508 is configured as an I-beam support rod. The I-beam support rod provides radial support, which can be several orders of magnitude greater than the axial support due to the I-beam cross-section. The emitter 424 can be fixedly coupled to the top surface 506 of the single-rod 508, and movement / thermal expansion of the emitter 424 can be converted into axial movement of the single-rod 508, such as material deformation including a bend or curve in the central region 1304 of the I-beam.

[0070] In this manner, an emitter assembly for an X-ray beam is provided, the emitter assembly including an emitter having a fixed support at a first end and a compliant support at a second end opposite the first end. The compliant mechanism provides fixed and non-fixed degrees of freedom, which enables thermal expansion and movement of the emitter. This can reduce short circuits due to compression, such as can occur in a fixed emitter (e.g., fixed in six degrees of freedom from the first and second ends) due to thermal expansion of the emitter and / or G-forces / centrifugal forces experienced by the emitter.

[0071] The emitter assembly enables movement and / or thermal expansion of the emitter via fixed / rigid support of the emitter at a first end by a double rod insulator assembly and compliant support of the emitter at a second end by a compliant single rod insulator assembly. The fixed / rigid support and the compliant support can desirably position the emitter in the cathode cup. During operation of the X-ray beam, which may include rotation of the X-ray beam and heating of the emitter, compression of the emitter and possible shorting of the emitter due to compression can be mitigated because the centrifugal force and thermal expansion of the emitter can be directed to axial movement of the emitter via the compliant support. The cathode can therefore have increased reliability and X-ray beam emission performance. The technical effects of a cathode for an imaging system as described herein are increased electron focusing capability of the cathode, high voltage stability of the cathode, and increased yield of manufactured cathodes.

[0072] The present disclosure also provides support for an X-ray emitter assembly, the X-ray emitter assembly comprising: a first end of a substantially flat emitter supported by a double rod extending from a double rod insulator assembly; and a second end of the substantially flat emitter supported by a compliant single rod insulator assembly. In a first example of the system, the compliant single rod insulator assembly comprises a single rod extending from the insulator. In a second example of the system, optionally including the first example, the compliant single rod insulator assembly further comprises a substantially flat support plate, the substantially flat support plate comprising a socket into which the substantially flat emitter is inserted, and the substantially flat support plate is perpendicular to the substantially flat emitter. In a third example of the system, optionally including one or both of the first and second examples, the single rod is welded to the substantially flat support plate. In a fourth example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to third examples, the substantially flat emitter is welded to the substantially flat support plate at the socket. In a fifth example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to fourth examples, the monorod includes a socket, and the compliant monorod insulator assembly further includes an expansion joint, wherein the expansion joint is inserted into the socket of the monorod, and the expansion joint is coupled to the substantially planar launcher. In a sixth example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to fifth examples, the monorod is configured to apply rigid radial support to the substantially planar launcher and enable axial movement of the substantially planar launcher.

[0073] The present disclosure also provides support for a substantially flat launcher, the substantially flat launcher comprising: a first end supported by at least one rod extending from an insulator assembly; and a second end supported by a substantially flat support plate including a socket, wherein the second end is inserted into the socket, and the substantially flat support plate is perpendicular to a planar launch surface. In a first example of this system, the socket of the substantially flat support plate has a length configured to accommodate thermal expansion of the substantially flat launcher. In a second example of this system, optionally including the first example, the substantially flat support plate further comprises a second socket configured to support a second launcher positioned parallel to the substantially flat launcher. In a third example of this system, optionally including one or both of the first and second examples, the substantially flat support plate is mounted on a single rod extending from an insulator. In a fourth example of this system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to third examples, the single rod is coupled to the substantially flat support plate via a weld. In a fifth example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to fourth examples, the substantially flat radiator is a dual-pass ribbon radiator. In a sixth example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to fifth examples, the insulator assembly is a dual-rod insulator assembly having a first rod and a second rod extending therefrom, and wherein the first rod and the second rod are fixedly coupled to the substantially flat radiator at the first end. In a seventh example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to sixth examples, a top surface of each of the first rod and the second rod is coplanar. In an eighth example of the system, optionally including one or more or each of the first to seventh examples, the substantially flat radiator is a single-pass radiator.

[0074] The present disclosure also provides support for an X-ray tube comprising: an anode; a cathode; a cathode cup for the cathode; and an emitter positioned in the cathode cup, the emitter comprising a first end supported by a double rod extending from a double rod insulator assembly and a second end supported by a compliant single rod insulator assembly. In a first example of the system, the system further comprises: one or more additional emitters positioned parallel to the emitter and supported by the double rod insulator assembly and the compliant single rod insulator assembly. In a second example of the system, optionally including the first example, the double rod insulator assembly is brazed into the cathode cup. In a third example of the system, optionally including one or both of the first and second examples, the cathode cup comprises a channel in which the compliant single rod insulator assembly is positioned, wherein the single rod of the compliant single rod insulator assembly is configured to apply rigid radial support to the emitter and enable axial movement of the emitter.

[0075] Figures 3 to 13 Shown are example configurations in which each component is positioned relative to another. In at least one example, if shown as being in direct contact or directly coupled to one another, such elements may be referred to as being in direct contact or directly coupled, respectively. Similarly, in at least one example, elements that are shown as being adjacent or adjacent to one another may be adjacent or adjacent to one another, respectively. For example, components that are placed in coplanar contact with one another may be referred to as being in coplanar contact. For another example, in at least one example, components that are positioned to be spaced apart from one another and only have space therebetween without other components may be described and referenced as such. For another example, components that are shown to be above / below one another, on opposite sides of one another, or on the left / right side of one another may be described and referenced as such relative to one another. In addition, as shown in the figure, in at least one example, the topmost element or the point of an element may be referred to as the "top" of a component, and the bottommost element or the point of an element may be referred to as the "bottom" of a component. As used herein, top / bottom, upper / lower, above / below may be relative to the vertical axis of the figure, and may be used to describe the position of elements relative to one another in the figure. Thus, in one example, elements shown as being above other elements are positioned vertically above the other elements. For another example, the shapes of 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.). Furthermore, in at least one example, elements shown as intersecting each other may be referred to as intersecting elements or intersecting each other. Additionally, in one example, elements shown as being within another element or shown as being outside another element may be referred to as such.

[0076] As used herein, the elements or steps listed in the singular and beginning with the word "one" or "an" should be understood as not excluding a plurality of said elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. In addition, reference to "one embodiment" of the present invention is not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also include the referenced features. In addition, unless explicitly stated otherwise, "including", "comprising" or "having" an element or multiple elements with a particular characteristic may include additional elements of this type that do not have that characteristic. The terms "including" and "in..." are used as the concise language equivalents of the corresponding terms "comprising" 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 positional order on their objects.

[0077] 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 those 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 X-ray emitter assembly, comprising: a first end (426) of a substantially flat launcher (424) supported by a double rod extending from a double rod insulator assembly (420); and A second end (428) of the substantially planar transmitter (424) is supported by a compliant single-rod insulator assembly (414).

2. The X-ray emitter assembly of claim 1 , wherein the compliant single rod insulator assembly (414) comprises a single rod (508) extending from an insulator (510).

3. The X-ray emitter assembly of claim 2 , wherein the compliant single-rod insulator assembly ( 414 ) further comprises a substantially flat support plate ( 512 ), the substantially flat support plate comprising a socket ( 514 ), wherein the substantially flat emitter ( 424 ) is inserted into the socket ( 514 ), and the substantially flat support plate ( 512 ) is perpendicular to the substantially flat emitter ( 424 ).

4. The X-ray emitter assembly of claim 3, wherein the single rod (508) is welded to the substantially flat support plate (512).

5. The X-ray emitter assembly of claim 3, wherein the substantially planar emitter (424) is welded to the substantially planar support plate (512) at the socket (514).

6. The X-ray emitter assembly of claim 2, wherein the single rod (508) includes a socket (522), and the compliant single rod insulator assembly (414) further includes an expansion joint (1006), wherein the expansion joint (1006) is inserted into the socket (522) of the single rod (508), and the expansion joint (1006) is coupled to the substantially flat emitter (424).

7. The X-ray emitter assembly of claim 2, wherein the single rod (508) is configured to apply rigid radial support to the substantially planar emitter (424) and to enable axial movement of the substantially planar emitter (424).

8. A substantially flat emitter (424), the substantially flat emitter comprising: a first end portion (426) supported by at least one rod extending from the insulator assembly (420); and A second end portion (428) is supported by a substantially flat support plate (512) including a socket (514), wherein the second end portion (428) is inserted into the socket (514), and the substantially flat support plate (512) is perpendicular to the planar emitting surface.

9. The substantially flat emitter (424) of claim 8, wherein the substantially flat support plate (512) further comprises a second socket (520) configured to support a second emitter positioned parallel to the substantially flat emitter (424).

10. The substantially flat launcher (424) of claim 8, wherein the substantially flat support plate (512) is mounted on a single rod (508) extending from an insulator (510).

11. The substantially flat launcher (424) of claim 10, wherein the single rod (508) is coupled to the substantially flat support plate (512) via a weld.

12. The substantially flat radiator (424) of claim 8, wherein the substantially flat radiator (424) is a dual-pass ribbon radiator.

13. The substantially flat launcher (424) of claim 12, wherein the insulator assembly is a dual rod insulator assembly (420) having a first rod (416) and a second rod (418) extending therefrom, and wherein the first rod (416) and the second rod (418) are fixedly coupled to the substantially flat launcher (424) at the first end (426).

14. The substantially flat launcher (424) of claim 13, wherein a top surface (506) of each of the first rod (416) and the second rod (418) are coplanar.

15. The substantially flat transmitter (424) of claim 8, wherein the substantially flat transmitter (424) is a single-pass transmitter (424).

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