A cyclotron ion source exchange device and method

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of cyclotron, and discloses a cyclotron ion source replacement device and a replacement method. The device is separated from the upper part of the cyclotron, and a lifting channel is constructed through the cavity of the lower central shaft, a sealing flange and a plug valve. A lifting member is arranged in the vacuum tube to transfer the ion source to a second vacuum chamber. The replacement is completed by opening the window after the gas valve releases the vacuum. After the gas is closed and vacuumed to the same vacuum degree as the main cavity, the plug valve is opened and the lifting member is reversely driven to push the ion source back to the working position, so that the ion source is quickly and reliably replaced under controlled vacuum conditions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of cyclotron technology, specifically to a cyclotron ion source replacement device and replacement method. Background Technology

[0002] The ion source plays a crucial role in the cyclotron accelerator. Its system comprises five core systems: a discharge chamber, a cathode / filament system, an ion extraction system, a magnetic field confinement system, and auxiliary systems. These can be broadly categorized into basic mechanical structures, circuits, gas lines, and water lines. The particle beam it generates requires operation in a vacuum environment; therefore, the entire ion source device must be placed in a high-vacuum environment within the accelerator's interior. The ion source requires replacement and maintenance approximately every three months. Assembly begins by transporting the ion source inside the accelerator, followed by the installation of the mechanical structures, connections to the circuits, gas lines, and water lines, ensuring a sealed environment at all ends using sealing strips or gaskets. Finally, a vacuum pump assembly evacuates the system. This process typically takes 3-4 days, and longer if the accelerator is large. If the ion source malfunctions and requires maintenance, the vacuum environment must first be broken until the internal pressure matches the external pressure. The accelerator is then opened, and the mechanical structures and pipelines are manually disassembled step-by-step before finally replacing the ion source.

[0003] Since the time required to create a vacuum environment is measured in days, and the ion source needs to be manually moved into the accelerator's internal space before assembly can begin, the efficiency is extremely low and is greatly affected by the vacuuming time. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a cyclotron ion source replacement device and method to solve the problem that ion source replacement requires opening the cyclotron, which disrupts the vacuum environment inside the accelerator, and the vacuuming time after replacement is long, thus reducing work efficiency.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution of the present invention is as follows: In a first aspect, a cyclotron ion source replacement device includes a bracket and lifting rods symmetrically fixed to the outside of the bracket. A lower part of the cyclotron is fixed to the bracket, and the telescopic end of the lifting rod is rotatably connected to an upper part of the cyclotron to drive the upper part of the cyclotron to move up and down relative to the lower part of the cyclotron, keeping the lower part of the cyclotron stationary. An ion source and a vacuum chamber providing a working environment for the ion source are disposed within the lower part of the cyclotron. The device also includes: The medium section, which runs through the lower central axis of the cyclotron, includes a vacuum component and a detection component. The vacuum component runs through the bottom of the lower part of the cyclotron to provide a sealed lifting channel throughout the entire process of the ion source moving downwards along the central axis out of the lower part of the cyclotron, continuously isolating the vacuum chamber from the external atmosphere. The detection component runs through the vacuum component to control the isolation switching of the vacuum chamber after the ion source enters the vacuum component, and to monitor the vacuum state inside the vacuum component in real time to obtain vacuum degree data, ensuring that the ion source is safely transferred in a sealed and isolated environment. The replacement unit, located within the medium section, includes a lifting component and an auxiliary component. The lifting component utilizes a motor to drive a nut to rotate, thereby moving a lead screw axially to drive the ion source to move up and down along the central axis between the working position and the vacuum component. The lifting component, in conjunction with the detection control, completes the positioning, removal, and return of the ion source without disrupting the vacuum state of the main body. The auxiliary component penetrates the detection control to continuously provide cooling water, working gas, and power to the ion source within the vacuum component without compromising the seal of the vacuum component.

[0006] Furthermore, the vacuum component includes a cavity that extends through the lower end of the cyclotron and is located on the central axis of the lower part of the cyclotron, communicating with the vacuum chamber to provide a lifting channel for the ion source to move downward out of the lower part of the cyclotron and into the sealing flange; a sealing flange connected to the lower end of the lower part of the cyclotron and coaxially connected with the cavity; and a gate valve that is sealed to the lower end of the sealing flange to isolate the vacuum tube from the sealing flange and the vacuum chamber when closed to maintain the vacuum state of the cyclotron body, and to provide a vertical lifting channel for the ion source when open.

[0007] Furthermore, the detection device includes a vacuum tube that is sealed and connected to the end of the slide gate valve away from the sealing flange, which cooperates with the closed slide gate valve to form an independent second vacuum chamber to accommodate and transfer the ion source, and an end cap fixed to the lower end of the vacuum tube to seal the lower end of the vacuum tube to cooperate with the vacuum tube to form a sealed chamber. A vacuum port is provided on one side of the vacuum tube for connecting to an external vacuum line to perform vacuuming operations inside the vacuum tube. A vent valve is provided on the front side for filling the vacuum tube with atmospheric air after the gate valve is closed to release the vacuum state inside the vacuum tube. A vacuum gauge is provided on the other side.

[0008] Furthermore, the lifting component includes a support fixed to the inner side of the vacuum tube and located above the vacuum port, a nut that is rotatably installed through the support and rotates with the bearing as the fulcrum, and a lead screw that is threaded through the nut and drives the nut to move axially, so as to drive the ion source to move between the working position and the vacuum tube through the support plate. A drive component, which passes through the vacuum tube and is located above the support, is used to drive the nut to rotate in order to control the lifting direction and stroke of the lead screw. Adjustment components are located on both sides of the lead screw. These components are used to limit and guide the rotation of the lead screw, and to support the ion source to rise and fall smoothly and synchronously with the lead screw.

[0009] Furthermore, the driving component includes a large bevel gear integrally formed on the upper end of the nut and located outside the lead screw, a support sleeve fixedly installed through the vacuum tube, a bushing connected to one end of the support sleeve, a drive motor installed at one end of the bushing, and the drive end of the drive motor extending through the support sleeve into the vacuum tube via a vacuum shaft seal, connected to the drive end of the drive motor via a coupling, and meshing with the large bevel gear. This is used to transmit the rotational power of the drive motor to the large bevel gear through the meshing action, thereby driving the nut to rotate and control the lifting and lowering of the lead screw. The drive motor is used to drive the small bevel gear to rotate forward or reverse through the coupling via the drive end, so as to provide the rotational power required to drive the lifting and lowering of the lead screw.

[0010] Furthermore, the adjusting components include a guide groove on one side of the lead screw, a side plate fixed to the side of the support away from the drive motor and extending downward, a screw threaded through the side plate and extending into the guide groove for rotating and limiting the lead screw under the support of the side plate and the support, preventing the lead screw from rotating on its own when driven by the nut rotation, a guide rod symmetrically arranged through the support via an oil-free bushing, a support plate fixed to the upper end of the guide rod and the lead screw, and an ion mounting plate fixed to the upper end of the support plate for providing an installation channel for the lower end interface of the ion source, wherein the ion source is detachably connected through the ion mounting plate via a fixing component.

[0011] Furthermore, the auxiliary component includes: The support is fixed to the side of the support closest to the support sleeve; Bolts, with threads penetrating the support bracket; The slide block is slidably connected to the support and located between the large bevel gear and the support sleeve, and is rotatably connected to the end of the bolt; Fixed bolts are symmetrically arranged through the slide block.

[0012] Furthermore, the auxiliary component also includes: The water pipe connector and the gas pipe connector share a single pipe connected to one side of the vacuum tube and are positioned opposite the vacuum gauge. The lower end of the ion source is connected to the water pipe connector and the gas pipe connector via a connecting pipe. The water pipe connector and the gas pipe connector are used to continuously provide cooling water and working gas to the ion source inside the vacuum tube without damaging the vacuum tube's seal. The aviation cable connector is connected to the vacuum tube via a quick clamp and is positioned opposite the vent valve. The aviation cable connector is used to quickly connect to an external cable to provide power to the ion source inside the vacuum tube, and allows for convenient disassembly and assembly via the quick clamp when replacing the ion source.

[0013] Furthermore, the auxiliary component also includes a replacement sub-part, which includes: A rectangular flange is provided through both sides of the vacuum tube and located above the support sleeve. The rectangular flange is used to provide a stable installation base under the support of the vacuum tube and to open the opening after the window cover is removed to establish a disassembly and assembly operation channel between the outside and the inside of the vacuum tube. A window cover is detachably connected to the end of a rectangular flange. The window cover is used to seal the window of the rectangular flange in the working state to maintain the airtightness inside the vacuum tube, and can be disassembled to open the operation window when the ion source needs to be replaced, allowing the operator to disassemble and install the ion source.

[0014] Secondly, a method for replacing the ion source in a cyclotron accelerator includes: The drive motor is controlled to rotate forward. The drive motor drives the small bevel gear to rotate through the coupling. The small bevel gear drives the large bevel gear to rotate through the meshing action. The nut uses the thread action to cooperate with the screw and the guide groove to push the lead screw to move downward. The lead screw drives the ion mounting plate and ion source to move downward together through the support plate, so that the ion source moves into the vacuum tube after passing through the cavity and the sealing flange in sequence. The control panel valve is closed to isolate the vacuum tube from the sealing flange and the vacuum chamber of the cyclotron body, ensuring that the vacuum chamber of the cyclotron body remains in a vacuum state throughout the subsequent operation. Open the vent valve to allow outside gas to enter the vacuum tube and release the vacuum in the vacuum tube. Remove the window cover to open the operating window of the rectangular flange. Remove the ion source from the ion mounting plate through the window. After installing the new ion source onto the ion mounting plate, reinstall the window cover and seal the rectangular flange. Close the vent valve, connect the external vacuum line to the vacuum port, and evacuate the vacuum tube. Monitor the vacuum level in real time using a vacuum gauge until the vacuum level in the vacuum tube matches the vacuum level in the cyclotron's main vacuum chamber. Open the slide gate valve to connect the sealing flange to the vacuum tube, control the drive motor to reverse, and drive the lead screw to move upward, pushing the new ion source back through the sealing flange and cavity to the working position in the lower part of the cyclotron, thus completing the ion source replacement.

[0015] The above-described solution of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: By setting a through-lifting channel and sealing structure in the lower central axis of the cyclotron and constructing a second vacuum chamber in conjunction with a gate valve, a lifting component inside the vacuum tube controls the transfer of the ion source to a detachable position. This achieves a controlled vacuum replacement process of isolation, venting, replacement, evacuation, and return to the original position. By evacuating the second vacuum chamber (small volume) instead of the vacuum chamber (large volume) in the lower part of the cyclotron, the entire machine does not need to be evacuated again, which greatly reduces the technical difficulty and risk of replacement operations, thereby shortening downtime, reducing the risk of contamination and damage, and improving work efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is an overall perspective view of the cyclotron ion source replacement device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional plan view of the cyclotron ion source replacement device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional plan view of the lower part of the cyclotron accelerator and the ion source after they are in place, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 A perspective view of the vacuum tube and slide valve assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 A cross-sectional plan view of a vacuum tube provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 A perspective view of the lead screw and ion source combination provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 Provided for embodiments of the present invention Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the structure at point A in the diagram; Figure 8 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the lead screw and screw assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the vacuum tube and cable aviation connector assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: In the diagram: 1. Bracket; 2. Lower part of cyclotron; 3. Fixing plate; 4. Lifting rod; 5. Connector; 6. Upper part of cyclotron; 7. Hanging lug; 8. Vacuum nozzle; 9. Cavity; 10. Sealing flange; 11. Slide valve; 12. Vacuum tube; 13. End cap; 14. Support; 15. Large bevel gear; 16. Lead screw; 17. Support sleeve; 18. Shaft sleeve; 19. Drive motor; 20. Coupling; 21. Small 21. Bevel gear; 22. Guide groove; 23. Side plate; 24. Screw; 25. Guide rod; 26. Support plate; 27. Ion mounting plate; 28. Ion source; 29. ​​Support; 30. Bolt; 31. Slide; 32. Fixing bolt; 33. Rectangular flange; 34. Window cover; 35. Vacuum port; 36. Vacuum gauge; 37. Vent valve; 38. Cable aviation connector; 39. Water pipe connector; 40. Gas pipe connector; 41. Nut. Detailed Implementation

[0018] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the invention may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this invention will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0019] like Figures 1 to 9 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a cyclotron ion source replacement device, including a bracket 1 and lifting rods 4 symmetrically fixed to the outside of the bracket 1. A lower part 2 of a cyclotron accelerator is fixed on the bracket 1. The telescopic end of the lifting rod 4 is rotatably connected to an upper part 6 of the cyclotron accelerator. The upper part 6 of the cyclotron accelerator covers the lower part 2 of the cyclotron accelerator. An ion source 28 is disposed inside the lower part 2 of the cyclotron accelerator. The device also includes: The medium section is set through the central axis of the lower part 2 of the cyclotron, and includes a vacuum component set through the bottom end of the lower part 2 of the cyclotron for providing a lifting channel and vacuuming for the ion source 28, and a detection device set through the vacuum component for detecting the transport medium. The replacement unit is installed inside the vacuum tube 12. It includes a lifting component installed inside the vacuum tube 12 for raising and lowering the ion source 28, and an auxiliary component installed through the vacuum tube 12 for replacing the ion source 28.

[0020] Specifically, a fixing plate 3 is symmetrically fixed on the outer side of the bracket 1, the fixed end of the lifting rod 4 is fixedly connected to the fixing plate 3, and the telescopic end of the lifting rod 4 is rotatably connected to a connector 5, which is connected to the outer side of the upper part 6 of the cyclotron.

[0021] The bracket 1 provides stable support for the lower part 2 and the fixing plate 3 of the cyclotron, the fixing plate 3 provides support for the lifting rod 4, the lifting rod 4 provides stable support for the connector 5 through its telescopic end, and the connector 5 provides support for the upper part 6 of the cyclotron. The central axis of the lower part 2 of the cyclotron provides installation space for the ion source 28 and provides a vacuum chamber for the ion source 28. The lower end of the lower part 2 of the cyclotron is provided with a vacuum nozzle 8, which is connected to the vacuum chamber. The outer side of the upper part 6 of the cyclotron is symmetrically provided with hanging ears 7. The vacuum nozzle 8 allows the operator to easily connect the vacuum pipeline to evacuate the vacuum chamber, and the vacuum nozzle 8 can also provide a sealing function when the pipeline is not connected. The hanging ears 7 can easily connect the suspension equipment, making it convenient for the operator to suspend and move the upper part 6 of the cyclotron.

[0022] In practical application, the staff can control the extension of the lifting rod 4 according to the actual needs. The lifting rod 4 can push the connector 5 upward through the telescopic end under the support of the bracket 1 via the fixed plate 3. The connector 5 can push the upper part 6 of the cyclotron upward under the action of external force, so that the upper part 6 of the cyclotron is separated from the lower part 2 of the cyclotron, thereby opening the leakage ion source 28. This allows the staff to replace the ion source 28 or repair and maintain the upper part 6 and the lower part 2 of the cyclotron using traditional methods.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum component includes: Cavity 9 is provided through the lower end of the lower part 2 of the cyclotron and is located on the central axis of the lower part 2 of the cyclotron, and is connected to the vacuum chamber. The sealing flange 10 is connected to the lower end of the lower part 2 of the cyclotron and is coaxially connected to the cavity 9. The slide gate valve 11 is sealed to the lower end of the sealing flange 10.

[0024] Specifically, the cavity 9 provides a channel for the ion source 28 to move downward out of the lower part 2 of the cyclotron. The sealing flange 10 provides stable support for the slide gate valve 11 under the support of the lower part 2 of the cyclotron. When closed, the slide gate valve 11 can seal the flange 10 and the cavity 9, so that the cavity 9, the sealing flange 10 and the vacuum chamber can maintain a vacuum environment. When open, the slide gate valve 11 can provide a channel for the ion source 28 to move up and down.

[0025] The control controls include: Vacuum tube 12 is sealed to the end of slide gate valve 11 away from sealing flange 10; End cap 13 is fixed to the lower end of vacuum tube 12; A vacuum port 35 is provided through one side of the vacuum tube 12, a vent valve 37 is provided through the front, and a vacuum gauge 36 is provided on the other side.

[0026] Specifically, the vacuum tube 12, together with the end cap 13 and the closed insert valve 11, can form a second vacuum chamber. The insert valve 11 can isolate or connect the two vacuum chambers. The vacuum tube 12 can provide stable support for the vacuum port 35 and the vent valve 37. The vacuum gauge 36 can detect the vacuum level in the vacuum tube 12 in real time.

[0027] In practical application, during the operation of the cyclotron, the slide gate valve 11 is open. Simultaneously, the vacuum evacuation pipeline needs to be connected to the vacuum port 35, and the vacuum tube 12, sealing flange 10, cavity 9, and vacuum chamber are evacuated to a vacuum. When it is necessary to remove the ion source 28 from the lower part 2 of the cyclotron, the operator should first control the ion source 28 to move downwards into the cavity 9 and through the cavity 9 into the sealing flange 10. Then, it should continue to move downwards, allowing the ion source 28 to pass through the slide gate valve 11 and move to the inside of the vacuum tube 12. Afterwards, the slide gate valve 11 needs to be closed to separate the vacuum tube 12 from the sealing flange 10, thus maintaining a vacuum state in the vacuum chamber, cavity 9, and sealing flange 10 in the lower part 2 of the cyclotron. Then, the vent valve 37 needs to be opened to allow external gas to pass through the vent valve 37 into the second vacuum chamber formed between the vacuum tube 12, end cap 13, and slide gate valve 11, thereby releasing the vacuum state.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the lifting component includes: Support 14 is fixed inside the vacuum tube 12 and located above the vacuum port 35; Nut 41 is installed through the support 14 via the bearing rotation; Lead screw 16, threaded through nut 41; The driving component is installed through the vacuum tube 12 and is located above the support 14; Adjustment parts are located on both sides of the lead screw 16.

[0029] Specifically, the vacuum tube 12 can provide support for the support 14, so that the support 14 can use the bearing to provide rotational support for the nut 41. The nut 41 can use rotational power and thread action to push the lead screw 16 (which is restricted from rotation) to move up and down according to the direction of rotation.

[0030] The drive components include: The large bevel gear 15 is integrally formed on the upper end of the nut 41 and is located outside the lead screw 16; Support sleeve 17 is fixedly installed through vacuum tube 12; Bushing 18 is connected to one end of support sleeve 17; The drive motor 19 is located at one end of the bushing 18, and the drive end of the drive motor 19 extends into the vacuum tube 12 through the vacuum shaft seal through the support sleeve 17. The small bevel gear 21 is connected to the drive end of the drive motor 19 via the coupling 20 and meshes with the large bevel gear 15.

[0031] Specifically, the nut 41 and the large bevel gear 15 work together to provide rotational support for the large bevel gear 15. The support sleeve 17 can cooperate with the vacuum shaft seal to provide rotational support for the drive end of the drive motor 19, while not disrupting the vacuum environment inside the vacuum tube 12. The support sleeve 17 can provide stable support for the bushing 18, and the bushing 18 can provide support for the drive motor 19. The drive motor 19 can use the drive end to drive the small bevel gear 21 to rotate through the coupling 20, so that the small bevel gear 21 can use rotational power and meshing action to drive the large bevel gear 15 to rotate, so that the large bevel gear 15 can drive the nut 41 to rotate around the bearing under the support of the support 14.

[0032] Adjustment parts include: Guide groove 22 is formed on one side of lead screw 16; Side plate 23 is fixed to the side of support 14 away from drive motor 19 and extends downward; The screw 24 is threaded through the side plate 23 and extends into the guide groove 22; Guide rod 25 is symmetrically arranged through the oil-free bushing and through the support 14; Support plate 26 is fixed to the upper end of guide rod 25 and lead screw 16; Ion mounting plate 27 is fixed to the upper end of support plate 26; The ion source 28 is detachably connected to the ion mounting plate 27 through a fixing component.

[0033] Specifically, the lead screw 16 provides space for the guide groove 22, which in turn provides space for the screw 24 to be inserted. The screw 24, supported by the side plate 23 and the support 14, works with the guide groove 22 to limit the movement of the lead screw 16, preventing it from rotating. This allows the lead screw 16 to move up and down under the action of the threaded nut 41. The support 14, in conjunction with the oil-free bushing, provides a through-channel for the guide rod 25, enabling the guide rod 25 to guide the support plate 26. The lead screw 16 provides support for the support plate 26 and can push it to move up and down together. The support plate 26 provides stable support for the ion mounting plate 27, which provides a through-channel for the lower interface of the ion source 28. A gap exists between the support plate 26 and the ion mounting plate 27, providing space for the lower interface of the ion source 28 to connect with the water pipe connector 39 and the gas pipe connector 40.

[0034] Auxiliary components include: Support 29 is fixed to the side of support 14 near support sleeve 17; Bolt 30, threaded through support 29; The slide block 31 is slidably connected to the support 14 and is located between the large bevel gear 15 and the support sleeve 17, and is rotatably connected to the end of the bolt 30. The fixing bolts 32 are symmetrically arranged through the slide block 31 to cooperate with the support 14 and the bolts 30 to press and fix the slide block 31; Water pipe connector 39 and air pipe connector 40 share a single pipe connected to one side of vacuum tube 12, and are opposite to the position of vacuum gauge 36. The lower end of the ion source 28 is connected to the water pipe connector 39 and the gas pipe connector 40 via connecting pipes. The cable aviation connector 38 is connected to the vacuum tube 12 via a quick clamp and is positioned opposite to the vent valve 37; Replace the sub-parts and install the through vacuum tube 12.

[0035] Specifically, the support 29 provides threaded support and a through channel for the bolt 30 under the support of the support 14. The support 14 provides sliding guidance and support for the slide 31. The contact surface has a concave-convex fit structure. The water pipe connector 39 and the air pipe connector 40 can provide water and air to the ion source 28. The cable aviation connector 38 can be quickly connected to the cable to provide power to the ion source 28. Under the support of the support 29, the bolt 30 can use rotational power and thread action to push the slide 31 to translate and adjust its position according to the direction of rotation when installing the slide 31. The small bevel gear 21 is set through the slide 31 through the bearing rotation.

[0036] When installing the slide block 31 and the small bevel gear 21, the operator can rotate the bolt 30 as needed, so that the bolt 30 can be moved in a direction closer to the large bevel gear 15 or away from the small bevel gear 21 by using rotational power and the thread action with the support 29. At the same time, the fixing bolt 32 needs to be loosened so that the bolt 30 can push the slide block 31 to slide along the support 14. The slide block 31 will then drive the small bevel gear 21 to slide together under the push of the bolt 30. This makes it convenient to adjust the distance between the small bevel gear 21 and the large bevel gear 15 during the installation work (before the small bevel gear 21 is connected to the drive motor 19 through the coupling 20), which facilitates the assembly and movement adjustment. After the adjustment is completed, tighten the fixing bolt 32 to fix the slide block 31, and then connect the drive motor 19 and the small bevel gear 21 axially through the coupling 20.

[0037] Replacement of sub-parts includes: A rectangular flange 33 is provided through both sides of the vacuum tube 12 and is located above the support sleeve 17; A window cover 34 is detachably connected to the end of a rectangular flange 33 to seal the window of the rectangular flange 33; Specifically, the rectangular flange 33 can provide stable support for the window cover 34 under the support of the vacuum tube 12, and the rectangular flange 33 can open an opening after the window cover 34 is removed, so as to open a channel between the outside and the vacuum tube 12, making it convenient for staff to disassemble and operate the ion source 28.

[0038] In practical application, when the operator needs to control the ion source 28 to move downwards, the drive motor 19 needs to be controlled to rotate forward under the support of the bushing 18 and the support sleeve 17. The drive motor 19 drives the coupling 20 to rotate, and through the coupling 20, it drives the small bevel gear 21 to rotate together under the support of the support 14. The small bevel gear 21 drives the large bevel gear 15 to rotate through meshing. The large bevel gear 15 drives the nut 41 to rotate together under the support of the support 14. The nut 41 uses the thread action and rotational power to push the lead screw 16. The rotation of the nut 41, in conjunction with the limiting and guiding action of the screw 24 and the guide groove 22, causes the lead screw 16 to move downwards. In turn, the lead screw 16 can drive the ion mounting plate 27 and the ion source 28 to move downwards into the vacuum tube 12 through the support plate 26. Conversely, the drive motor 19 is controlled to rotate in reverse. After the ion source 28 is moved into the vacuum tube 12 by the lead screw 16 and the vacuum in the vacuum tube 12 is released, the operator needs to immediately remove the window cover 34 to open the opening of the rectangular flange 33 (e.g., Figure 4 (As shown), then remove the ion source 28 from the ion mounting plate 27 through the opening, and tilt the ion source 28 to remove it from the opening to replace the ion source 28.

[0039] After the ion source 28 is replaced, the operator needs to reinstall the window cover 34 back to the end of the rectangular flange 33 and close the vent valve 37. Then, connect the vacuum pipe to the vacuum port 35 and extract the air from the vacuum tube 12 through the vacuum pipe to maintain a vacuum state in the vacuum tube 12 (the vacuum degree is the same as the vacuum degree in the lower part 2 of the cyclotron by judging by the vacuum gauge 36). Then, open the slide valve 11 to connect the sealing flange 10 to the vacuum tube 12. After that, drive the drive motor 19 to reverse, so that the drive motor 19 drives the small bevel gear 21 to reverse along with the drive end and the coupling 20. The small bevel gear 21 drives the large bevel gear 15 and the nut 41 to reverse along with the meshing action. The nut 41 pushes the screw 16 upward with the thread action. The screw 16, in conjunction with the guide rod 25 and the oil-free bushing, pushes the ion mounting plate 27 upward through the support plate 26. The ion mounting plate 27 drives the ion source 28 into the working position of the ion source 28 in the lower part 2 of the cyclotron.

[0040] A method for replacing a cyclotron ion source, implemented using the aforementioned cyclotron ion source 28 replacement device, comprises the following steps: Step 1: When the staff needs to replace the ion source 28 in the lower part 2 of the cyclotron, first confirm that the cyclotron has been stopped, the slide valve 11 is in the open state, and the vacuum tube 12, sealing flange 10, cavity 9 are connected to the vacuum chamber and are all in a vacuum state. Subsequently, the drive motor 19 is controlled to rotate forward. Under the support of the bushing 18 and the support sleeve 17, the drive motor 19 drives the small bevel gear 21 to rotate through the coupling 20. The small bevel gear 21 drives the large bevel gear 15 to rotate through meshing. The large bevel gear 15 drives the nut 41 to rotate with the bearing as the fulcrum under the support of the support 14. The nut 41 drives the lead screw 16 through the thread action. The lead screw 16 moves downward along the central axis under the limiting and guiding action of the screw 24 and the guide groove 22. Then, through the support plate 26, it drives the ion mounting plate 27 and the ion source 28 fixed on it to move downward together, so that the ion source 28 passes through the cavity 9 and the sealing flange 10 in sequence, and then through the open gate valve 11, and moves into the inside of the vacuum tube 12, completing the transfer of the ion source 28 from the working position to the vacuum tube 12.

[0041] Step 2: After the ion source 28 is completely moved into the vacuum tube 12, the control panel valve 11 is closed to isolate the vacuum tube 12 from the sealing flange 10 and the vacuum chamber of the lower part 2 of the cyclotron, so that the vacuum chamber, channel 9 and sealing flange 10 of the cyclotron body are always kept in a vacuum state in all subsequent operations, without the need to re-evacuate the whole machine.

[0042] Step 3: After confirming the closure of the slide gate valve 11, open the vent valve 37 to allow outside air to enter the second vacuum chamber formed by the vacuum tube 12, end cap 13, and slide gate valve 11. The operator observes the pressure change inside the vacuum tube 12 using the vacuum gauge 36. Once the reading on the vacuum gauge 36 returns to atmospheric pressure, it is confirmed that the vacuum state inside the vacuum tube 12 has been completely released. During this process, it is also necessary to disconnect the water pipe connector 39, the gas pipe connector 40, and the connecting pipe at the lower end of the ion source 28, and remove the quick clamp on the cable aviation connector 38 to disconnect the power supply to the ion source 28.

[0043] Step 4: Use tools to remove the window cover 34 at the end of the rectangular flange 33, open the operating window of the rectangular flange 33, and establish an operating channel between the outside and the inside of the vacuum tube 12. The operator inserts tools through the window to remove the fixing components, detaches the old ion source 28 from the ion mounting plate 27, and tilts it before removing it from the opening of the rectangular flange 33. Then, the new ion source 28 is inserted into the vacuum tube 12 through the opening of the rectangular flange 33, adjusted in direction, and passes through the ion mounting plate 27. The new ion source 28 is then detachably and securely connected to the ion mounting plate 27 using the fixing components. After replacement, the window cover 34 is reinstalled to the end of the rectangular flange 33 and sealed tightly. Simultaneously, the connections between the water pipe connector 39 and the gas pipe connector 40 and the lower end of the ion source 28 are restored.

[0044] Step 5: Close the vent valve 37, connect the external vacuum line to the vacuum port 35 on one side of the vacuum tube 12, start the vacuum equipment to perform vacuuming operation inside the vacuum tube 12, and the staff should observe the reading of the vacuum gauge 36 in real time until the vacuum degree inside the vacuum tube 12 is consistent with the vacuum degree of the cyclotron body vacuum chamber. After confirming that the vacuum environment on both sides is matched, stop the vacuuming and disconnect the vacuum line 12.

[0045] Step Six: Open the slide gate valve 11 to reconnect the sealing flange 10 to the vacuum tube 12. The new ion source 28 in the vacuum tube 12 is now in a unified vacuum environment connected to the vacuum chamber of the cyclotron. Then, control the drive motor 19 to reverse. The drive motor 19 drives the small bevel gear 21 to rotate in the opposite direction via the coupling 20. The small bevel gear 21, through meshing, pushes the large bevel gear 15 and nut 41 to reverse. The nut 41, using its thread, pushes the lead screw 16 upward. The lead screw 16, in conjunction with the guide rod 25 and the oil-free bushing, pushes the ion mounting plate 27 upward via the support plate 26. The ion mounting plate 27 carries the new ion source 28 sequentially through the slide gate valve 11, the sealing flange 10, and the cavity 9, rising to the working position in the lower part 2 of the cyclotron, completing the installation of the new ion source 28. Finally, reconnect the cable aviation connector 38. After confirming that all connections and connectors are correct, the cyclotron can be restored to normal operation. Throughout the entire replacement process, the vacuum state of the cyclotron's vacuum chamber remains intact.

[0046] The above description represents the preferred embodiments of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications without departing from the principles of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A cyclotron ion source replacement device, characterized in that, The system includes a support frame and lifting rods symmetrically fixed to the outside of the support frame. The lower part of the cyclotron is fixed to the support frame. The telescopic end of the lifting rods is rotatably connected to the upper part of the cyclotron. An ion source and a vacuum chamber are housed within the lower part of the cyclotron. The system also includes: The medium section, which runs through the lower central axis of the cyclotron, includes a vacuum component and a detection component; the vacuum component runs through the bottom of the lower part of the cyclotron, and the detection component runs through the vacuum component. The vacuum component includes a cavity, which runs through the lower end of the lower part of the cyclotron and is located at the central axis of the lower part of the cyclotron. The cavity is connected to the vacuum chamber. A sealing flange is connected to the lower end of the lower part of the cyclotron. The sealing flange is coaxially connected to the cavity, and a gate valve is sealed to the lower end of the sealing flange. The detection device includes a vacuum tube, which is sealed and connected to the end of the slide valve away from the sealing flange. An end cap is fixed to the lower end of the vacuum tube, and a vacuum port is provided through one side of the vacuum tube. The replacement unit, located inside the medium section, includes a lifting component and auxiliary components. The lifting component includes a support, which is fixed to the inside of the vacuum tube and located above the vacuum port. A nut is rotatably installed on the support via a bearing, and a lead screw is threaded through the nut. A driving component is installed above the support through the vacuum tube, and adjusting components are installed on both sides of the lead screw. The adjusting component includes a guide groove, which is opened on one side of the lead screw. A downwardly extending side plate is fixed on the side of the support away from the drive motor. A screw rod is threaded through the side plate and extends into the guide groove. Guide rods are symmetrically arranged inside the support through an oil-free bushing. A support plate is fixed to the upper end of the guide rod and the lead screw. An ion mounting plate is fixed to the upper end of the support plate. The ion source is detachably connected through a fixing component that passes through the ion mounting plate.

2. The cyclotron ion source replacement device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection control also includes: The front of the vacuum tube is provided with a venting valve for filling the vacuum tube with atmospheric air after the slide valve is closed to release the vacuum state inside the vacuum tube, and a vacuum gauge is provided on the other side.

3. The cyclotron ion source replacement device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The driving component includes a large bevel gear integrally formed on the upper end of the nut and located outside the lead screw, a support sleeve fixedly installed through the vacuum tube, a bushing connected to one end of the support sleeve, a drive motor installed at one end of the bushing, and the drive end of the drive motor extending through the support sleeve into the vacuum tube via a vacuum shaft seal. It is connected to the drive end of the drive motor via a coupling and meshes with the large bevel gear. The drive motor transmits the rotational power of the drive motor to the large bevel gear through the meshing action, thereby driving the nut to rotate and controlling the lifting and lowering of the lead screw. The drive motor is used to drive the small bevel gear to rotate forward or reverse through the coupling via the drive end, so as to provide the rotational power required to drive the lifting and lowering of the lead screw.

4. The cyclotron ion source replacement device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The auxiliary components include: The support is fixed to the side of the support closest to the support sleeve; Bolts, with threads penetrating the support bracket; The slide block is slidably connected to the support and located between the large bevel gear and the support sleeve, and is rotatably connected to the end of the bolt; Fixed bolts are symmetrically arranged through the slide block.

5. The cyclotron ion source replacement device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The auxiliary components also include: The water pipe connector and the gas pipe connector share a single pipe connected to one side of the vacuum tube and are positioned opposite the vacuum gauge. The lower end of the ion source is connected to the water pipe connector and the gas pipe connector via a connecting pipe. The water pipe connector and the gas pipe connector are used to continuously provide cooling water and working gas to the ion source inside the vacuum tube without damaging the vacuum tube's seal. The aviation cable connector is connected to the vacuum tube via a quick clamp and is positioned opposite the vent valve. The aviation cable connector is used to quickly connect to an external cable to provide power to the ion source inside the vacuum tube, and allows for convenient disassembly and assembly via the quick clamp when replacing the ion source.

6. The cyclotron ion source replacement device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The auxiliary component also includes a replacement sub-part, which includes: A rectangular flange is provided through both sides of the vacuum tube and located above the support sleeve. The rectangular flange is used to provide a stable installation base under the support of the vacuum tube and to open the opening after the window cover is removed to establish a disassembly and assembly operation channel between the outside and the inside of the vacuum tube. A window cover is detachably connected to the end of a rectangular flange. The window cover is used to seal the window of the rectangular flange in the working state to maintain the airtightness inside the vacuum tube, and can be disassembled to open the operation window when the ion source needs to be replaced, allowing the operator to disassemble and install the ion source.

7. A method for replacing the ion source of a cyclotron accelerator, applied to the ion source replacement device of any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, include: The drive motor is controlled to rotate forward. The drive motor drives the small bevel gear to rotate through the coupling. The small bevel gear drives the large bevel gear to rotate through the meshing action. The nut uses the thread action to cooperate with the screw and the guide groove to push the lead screw to move downward. The lead screw drives the ion mounting plate and ion source to move downward together through the support plate, so that the ion source moves into the vacuum tube after passing through the cavity and the sealing flange in sequence. The control panel valve is closed to isolate the vacuum tube from the sealing flange and the vacuum chamber of the cyclotron body, ensuring that the vacuum chamber of the cyclotron body remains in a vacuum state throughout the subsequent operation. Open the vent valve to allow outside gas to enter the vacuum tube and release the vacuum in the vacuum tube. Remove the window cover to open the operating window of the rectangular flange. Remove the ion source from the ion mounting plate through the window. After installing the new ion source onto the ion mounting plate, reinstall the window cover and seal the rectangular flange. Close the vent valve, connect the external vacuum line to the vacuum port, and evacuate the vacuum tube. Monitor the vacuum level in real time using a vacuum gauge until the vacuum level in the vacuum tube matches the vacuum level in the cyclotron's main vacuum chamber. Open the slide gate valve to connect the sealing flange to the vacuum tube, control the drive motor to reverse, and drive the lead screw to move upward, pushing the new ion source back through the sealing flange and cavity to the working position in the lower part of the cyclotron, thus completing the ion source replacement.

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