A combined structure of a particle accelerator and its replacement method

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of particle accelerators; it discloses a combined structure of a particle accelerator and its replacement method. The combined structure includes an ion source probe, a replacement device, and a feed device. The replacement device has a through cavity. The proximal end of the replacement device is detachably and sealed to the distal end of the feed device. The distal end of the replacement device is sealed to the accelerator. A pumping device and a control valve are installed on the replacement device. A portion of the ion source probe passes through the cavity of the feed device and the replacement device. This combined structure and its replacement method can achieve rapid replacement of the particle source without disrupting the high vacuum conditions of the accelerator's central cavity during the entire replacement process; simultaneously, it optimizes the matching with the accelerating electric field to maximize the intensity of the particle extraction beam.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of particle accelerators, and in particular to a combined structure of a particle accelerator and a method for replacing it. Background Technology

[0002] A cyclotron is an important instrument in high-energy physics that uses magnetic and electric fields to make charged particles cyclone and be repeatedly accelerated by a high-frequency electric field.

[0003] In particle accelerators, particle source components generate plasma, which is then accelerated by the accelerator to form high-energy charged particles. These particles are ultimately extracted for use in proton therapy, materials irradiation, and scientific experiments. The extracted beam intensity of the particle source is one of the key indicators for evaluating accelerator performance.

[0004] In existing technologies, to improve the intensity of the extracted beam, the particle source is typically installed at the center of the particle accelerator. While this approach helps optimize the coupling efficiency between the particle source and the accelerating electric field, it also results in beam loss due to the tendency of charged particles to collide with air molecules during transmission. Therefore, the central cavity of the accelerator must be maintained in a high vacuum state (typically requiring a vacuum level of E-6 Torr or higher) to ensure stable transmission and effective acceleration of the particle beam.

[0005] Furthermore, as particle accelerators operate for extended periods, the particle source material gradually degrades due to particle bombardment and sputtering, leading to a decline in beam performance. Simultaneously, particle source disassembly or replacement is frequently required during accelerator commissioning, maintenance, or beam parameter changes. Existing particle source replacement devices typically require a vacuum-breaking operation within the central cavity during the replacement process: first, releasing the vacuum, then replacing the particle source, and finally re-evacuating. This process is not only time-consuming (ranging from several hours to several days) but may also introduce contaminants, affecting the internal cavity environment and subsequent beam quality. Moreover, even after replacing the particle source, deviations in installation position, angle, or electric field matching often prevent achieving optimal extraction efficiency in a single operation, resulting in a particle beam intensity lower than the design level.

[0006] Under the above circumstances, how to achieve rapid replacement of the particle source without compromising the high vacuum of the central cavity has become a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved in this field.

[0007] Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a structural scheme that can rapidly replace the particle source without compromising the high vacuum conditions of the accelerator's central cavity, while simultaneously fine-tuning the position of the particle source to optimize its matching with the accelerating electric field and maximize the intensity of the particle extraction beam. Summary of the Invention

[0008] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a combined structure of a particle accelerator and a replacement method thereof, which enables rapid replacement of the particle source without compromising the high vacuum conditions of the accelerator's central cavity. Simultaneously, it allows for fine-tuning of the particle source position, thereby optimizing its matching with the accelerating electric field and maximizing the intensity of the particle extraction beam.

[0009] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a combined structure for a particle accelerator, the combined structure including an ion source probe, a replacement device, and a feeding device;

[0010] The replacement device and the feeding device each have a through cavity at their center along their length; the replacement device and the feeding device each have a distal end and a proximal end that are arranged opposite to each other.

[0011] The proximal end of the replacement device is detachably and sealed to the distal end of the feed device; the distal end of the replacement device is sealed to the accelerator.

[0012] The replacement device is equipped with an air extraction device and a control valve; when the control valve is open, the cavity of the accelerator is connected to the cavity of the replacement device; when the control valve is closed, the cavity of the replacement device is divided into an independent first sealed cavity and a second cavity, wherein: the air extraction device is connected to the first sealed cavity; and the second cavity is connected to the cavity inside the accelerator.

[0013] Part of the ion source probe passes through the cavity of the feeding device and the replacement device, and the ion source probe is sealed to the feeding device and is movable.

[0014] Furthermore, the proximal end of the replacement device and the distal end of the feeding device are connected by an insertion tube and a hollow connecting post, wherein: one of the proximal end of the replacement device and the distal end of the feeding device is provided with a hollow connecting post, and the other is provided with an insertion tube that mates with the hollow connecting post.

[0015] Furthermore, the replacement device includes a first section structure and a second section structure; the control valve is arranged between the first section structure and the second section structure, and the first section structure and the second section structure are respectively connected to the control valve by fasteners; an air extraction assembly is provided on the first section structure; the insertion tube is provided at the end of the first section structure away from the control valve; wherein: the first sealing cavity is provided in the first section structure, and the second cavity is provided in the second section structure.

[0016] Furthermore, the control valve is a vacuum gate valve; the first section structure and the second section structure are respectively connected to the vacuum gate valve through the first flange structure.

[0017] Furthermore, a sealing ring is provided on the hollow connecting column and / or a sealing ring is provided inside the insertion tube.

[0018] Furthermore, a clamp for locking the connection between the insertion tube and the hollow connecting post is installed on the outer circumference of the insertion tube.

[0019] Furthermore, a first flange ring is provided on the hollow connecting column; when the hollow connecting column is connected to the insertion tube, the first flange ring abuts against the end face of the insertion tube.

[0020] Furthermore, the free end of the insertion tube extends away from the center line of the insertion tube to form a second flange ring; when the hollow connecting column is connected to the insertion tube, the clamp is engaged with the second flange ring and the first flange ring.

[0021] Furthermore, the first segment structure includes a first connecting pipe and a second connecting pipe. One end of the first connecting pipe is connected to the manual gate valve through a first flange structure, and the other end of the first connecting pipe is connected to one end of the second connecting pipe through a second flange structure. The other end of the second connecting pipe has the insertion tube. An adjustment component for adjusting the center position of the ion source probe is installed on the second connecting pipe.

[0022] Furthermore, the adjustment assembly includes a micrometer, a clamping plate with a first opening, a base plate with a second opening, and a cross plate; the lower end face of the base plate is connected to the upper end face of the clamping plate by fasteners, and the space enclosed by the first opening and the second opening matches the outer peripheral surface of the second connecting tube; the upper end face of the base plate is connected to one end of the lower surface of the cross plate; the micrometer is mounted on the upper surface of the cross plate, and the measuring rod of the micrometer abuts against the ion source probe.

[0023] Furthermore, the adjustment assembly also includes a slider, which is slidably mounted on the upper surface of the cross plate; wherein, one of the slider and the cross plate is provided with a groove, and the other is provided with a slide rail that slides in cooperation with the groove.

[0024] Furthermore, the ion source probe can rotate or move relative to the feeding device.

[0025] Furthermore, the vacuum gate valve is a manual gate valve.

[0026] The present invention also provides a method for replacing the combined structure of a particle accelerator, the method including an ion source probe disassembly method, comprising the following steps:

[0027] Step S101: First, manually pull the electrode rod of the ion source probe away from the accelerator until the head of the electrode rod of the ion source probe leaves the control valve.

[0028] Step S102: Close the control valve;

[0029] Step S103: Disassemble the feeding device to separate it from the replacement device, thus completing the disassembly.

[0030] The present invention also provides a method for replacing the combined structure of a particle accelerator, and further includes an internal particle source installation method, which includes the following steps:

[0031] Step S201: Connect the feed device installed on the ion source probe to the replacement device to complete the sealed installation;

[0032] Step S202: Manually operate the electrode rod of the ion source probe to move it towards the accelerator via the feed device until the electrode rod reaches the first sealed cavity and stops moving, while keeping the control valve in the closed state during this process;

[0033] Step S203: Open the vacuum device connected to the first sealed cavity to evacuate the first sealed cavity;

[0034] Step S204: Open the control valve, and then continue to manually operate the electrode rod of the ion source probe so that it passes through the replacement device and is fully inserted into the accelerator to complete the installation.

[0035] Furthermore, the step of sealingly connecting the feeding device and the replacement device includes:

[0036] Step S2011: First, insert the hollow connecting post into the insertion tube to ensure that the hollow connecting post mates with the insertion tube;

[0037] Step S2012: Next, install the clamp at the connection between the hollow connecting post and the insertion tube to lock the connection between the hollow connecting post and the insertion tube.

[0038] Furthermore, after inserting the ion source probe into the accelerator, the following steps are also included: adjusting the axial position of the electrode rod of the ion source probe using an adjustment component to ensure that the ion source probe is released at the center position of the accelerator, wherein: the center position is the position where the accelerating electric field of the RF resonant cavity of the accelerator coincides spatially with the maximum magnetic flux region of its superconducting magnet.

[0039] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the combined structure of the particle accelerator and its replacement method provided by the present invention include at least the following:

[0040] The present invention comprises an ion source probe, a replacement device, and a feed device; the replacement device has a through cavity along its length centerline; the replacement device and the feed device each have a distal end and a proximal end disposed opposite to each other; the proximal end of the replacement device is detachably and sealed to the distal end of the feed device; the distal end of the replacement device is sealed to the accelerator; the replacement device is equipped with a pumping device and a control valve; a portion of the ion source probe passes through the cavity of the feed device and the replacement device, and the ion source probe is sealed to the feed device and is movable. As can be seen, the structure is simple and easy to assemble. When the ion source probe needs to be replaced, simply manually pull the electrode rod of the ion source probe out to the outside of the control valve, then close the control valve, and then disconnect the replacement device from the feed device to achieve quick disassembly. During installation, simply seal the feed device and the replacement device, then manually operate the electrode rod of the ion source probe to push it into the first sealed cavity of the replacement device, and then evacuate the first sealed cavity. Then open the control valve and fully insert the ion source probe into the accelerator. As can be seen, the entire replacement process does not disrupt the high vacuum condition of the accelerator's central cavity, enabling rapid replacement of the particle source. At the same time, its matching with the accelerating electric field is optimized to maximize the intensity of the particle extraction beam. Attached Figure Description

[0041] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a combined structure of a particle accelerator disclosed in this invention;

[0043] Figure 2 This is a top view of a combined structure of a particle accelerator disclosed in this invention;

[0044] Figure 3 This is a front view of a combined structure of a particle accelerator disclosed in this invention;

[0045] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a replacement device for a combined structure of a particle accelerator disclosed in this invention;

[0046] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the combined structure of a particle accelerator disclosed in this invention without the replacement device installed.

[0047] Figure 6 for Figure 1 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0048] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the adjustment component disclosed in this invention;

[0049] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the adjustment component disclosed in this invention when the clamping plate is not assembled.

[0050] Figure 9 This is a first flowchart of the method for replacing the combined structure of a particle accelerator disclosed in this invention.

[0051] Figure 10 This is a second flowchart of the method for replacing the combined structure of the particle accelerator disclosed in this invention.

[0052] Figure 11 This is the third flowchart of the method for replacing the combined structure of the particle accelerator disclosed in this invention.

[0053] In the picture:

[0054] 1. Ion source probe; 11. Electrode rod;

[0055] 2. Replacement device; 21. Insertion tube; 211. Second flange ring; 22. First section structure; 23. Second section structure; 221. First connecting tube; 222. Second connecting tube;

[0056] 3. Feeding device; 31. Hollow connecting column; 311. First flange ring;

[0057] 4. Manual gate valve;

[0058] 5. Adjustment components; 51. Micrometer; 52. Clamping plate; 53. Seat plate; 531. Second opening; 54. Cross plate; 541. Slide rail; 55. Slider; 551. Slide groove; 56. Circular through hole; 57. Fastener;

[0059] 6. Air extraction pipeline;

[0060] 71. First flange structure; 72. Second flange structure; 73. Third flange structure. Detailed Implementation

[0061] To make the technical problems solved by the present invention, the technical solutions adopted, and the technical effects achieved clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0062] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected," "linked," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0063] The technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0064] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the present invention provides a combined structure of a particle accelerator, the combined structure including an ion source probe 1, a replacement device 2, and a feeding device 3.

[0065] The replacement device 2 has a through cavity (not shown in the figure) along its centerline in the length direction; the replacement device 2 has a distal end and a proximal end arranged opposite each other; the feed device 3 also has a distal end and a proximal end arranged opposite each other; a portion of the ion source probe 1 passes through the cavity of the feed device 3 and the replacement device 2, and the ion source probe 1 is sealed to the feed device 3 and is movable. Specifically, the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe 1 can move or rotate relative to the feed device 3.

[0066] The proximal end of the replacement device 2 is detachably and sealed to the distal end of the feed device 3; the distal end of the replacement device 2 is sealed to the accelerator; the replacement device 2 is equipped with an air extraction device and a control valve. The air extraction device is closer to the feed device 3 than the control valve.

[0067] When the control valve is opened, the cavity of the accelerator communicates with the cavity of the replacement device 2 to form a first sealed chamber (not shown in the figure).

[0068] When the control valve is closed, the cavity of the replacement device 2 is divided into a first sealed cavity and a second cavity, which are independent of each other. The pumping device is connected to the first sealed cavity; the second cavity is connected to the cavity in the accelerator to form a first sealed chamber; the pressure in the first sealed chamber is not affected by the change in the pressure state in the first sealed cavity.

[0069] When the air extraction device is turned on, the gas in the first sealed cavity can be extracted through the air extraction device.

[0070] The ion source probe 1 is connected to a power unit (not shown in the figure), and the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe 1 can move relative to the feed device 3. Specifically, in the working state, the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe 1 can rotate relative to the feed device 3 under the drive of the power unit; simultaneously, the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe 1 can also move linearly relative to the feed device 3 under the drive of the power unit. When the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe 1 moves, its sealing performance can ensure that the vacuum degree between the feed device 3 and the ion source probe 1 reaches at least E-6 level.

[0071] Further, refer to Figures 1 to 5 The proximal end of the replacement device 2 and the distal end of the feeding device 3 are connected by an insertion tube 21 and a hollow connecting post 31. The proximal end of the replacement device 2 and the distal end of the feeding device 3 are provided with a hollow connecting post 31, and the other is provided with an insertion tube 21 that cooperates with the hollow connecting post 31.

[0072] The following description uses an example where the replacement device 2 has an insertion tube 21 at its proximal end and the feeding device 3 has a hollow connecting post 31 at its distal end. Preferably, the center line of the inner cavity of the hollow connecting post 31 is collinear with the center line of the feeding device 3.

[0073] The inner cavity of the insertion tube 21 is connected to the cavity of the replacement device 2. Preferably, the center line of the inner cavity of the insertion tube 21 is collinear with the center line of the cavity of the replacement device 2; at the same time, the center line of the cavity of the replacement device 2 is collinear with the center line of the feeding device 3.

[0074] The hollow connecting post 31 is housed within the insertion tube 21, and they are detachably and sealingly connected. Preferably, a sealing ring is provided around the outer circumference of the hollow connecting post 31; or, a sealing ring is provided around the inner circumference of the insertion tube 21 (not shown in the figure); or, sealing rings are provided around both the outer circumference of the hollow connecting post 31 and the inner circumference of the insertion tube 21.

[0075] During installation, the hollow connecting post 31 is accommodated within the insertion tube 21, and the sealing ring is simultaneously compressed by both the insertion tube 21 and the hollow connecting post 31, thereby achieving a sealed connection between the insertion tube 21 and the hollow connecting post 31. Preferably, the sealing ring is an O-ring, and its compression is configured to maintain an elastic deformation state after the insertion tube 21 and the hollow connecting post 31 are assembled, in order to maintain stable sealing performance.

[0076] In some specific embodiments, such as Figures 1 to 4The replacement device 2 includes a first section structure 22 and a second section structure 23; both the first section structure 22 and the second section structure 23 are tubular structures. The control valve is a vacuum gate valve, preferably a manual gate valve.

[0077] The manual gate valve 4 is arranged between the first section structure 22 and the second section structure 23. The first section structure 22 and the second section structure 23 are respectively connected to the manual gate valve 4 by fasteners. Specifically, the first section structure 22 has a connecting end (not shown in the figure) and an insertion tube 21 arranged opposite to each other. The connecting end is connected to one end of the manual gate valve 4 by fasteners. The insertion tube 21 cooperates with the hollow connecting column 31 of the feeding device 3. The other end of the manual gate valve 4 is fixedly connected to one end of the second section structure 23 by fasteners. More specifically, the first section structure 22 and the second section structure 23 are respectively connected to the manual gate valve 4 by a first flange structure 71.

[0078] The manual gate valve 4 has a distal end and a proximal end, and the distal end of the manual gate valve 4 is close to the first section structure 22. When the manual gate valve 4 is closed, the inner wall of the first section structure 22, the distal end of the manual gate valve 4, and the feed device 3 enclose and form the first sealed cavity. At the same time, the inner wall of the second section structure 23 and the proximal end of the manual gate valve 4 enclose and form the second cavity.

[0079] refer to Figure 1 The other end of the second segment 23 is reliably mounted on the accelerator via the third flange structure 73, and the space inside the replacement device 2 is connected to the vacuum chamber inside the accelerator (not shown in the figure). Thus, with the manual gate valve 4 closed, the ion source probe can be inserted into or withdrawn from the central region of the accelerator via the replacement device 2 without disrupting the vacuum conditions inside the accelerator.

[0080] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The first segment 22 is provided with an air extraction assembly. The air extraction assembly includes an air extraction device (not shown in the figure) and at least one air extraction pipe 6 disposed on the first segment 22; when the air extraction device is turned on, it can extract the gas in the first segment 22 through the air extraction pipe 6.

[0081] Preferably, a pair of extraction pipes 6 are provided on the first segment structure 22. More preferably, the pair of extraction pipes 6 are arranged opposite to each other on both sides of the first segment structure 22.

[0082] Preferably, the axis of the extraction pipe 6 intersects and is perpendicular to the axis of the first section structure 22. More preferably, a pair of extraction pipes 6 are arranged 180° opposite each other along the circumference of the first section structure 22 to achieve uniform extraction. Figure 2 .

[0083] In some specific embodiments, reference is made to Figure 1 When the hollow connecting post 31 is accommodated within the insertion tube 21, in order to improve the reliability of the connection between the hollow connecting post 31 and the insertion tube 21, a clamp (not shown in the figure) is installed on the outer circumference of the insertion tube 21 to lock the relative position of the hollow connecting post 31 and the insertion tube 21 and further enhance the sealing performance. The clamp can be a retaining ring, which is engaged at the connection between the hollow connecting post 31 and the insertion tube 21. Preferably, the retaining ring is a split retaining ring, consisting of two semi-circular retaining ring bodies, one end of which is hinged to each other, and the other end is connected in an openable and closable manner by fasteners.

[0084] In some specific embodiments, reference is made to Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The hollow connecting column 31 is provided with a first flange ring 311. When the hollow connecting column 31 is connected to the insertion tube 21, the first flange ring 311 abuts against the end face of the insertion tube 21, or the first flange ring 311 is close to the end face of the insertion tube 21. The first flange ring 311 increases the contact area with the insertion tube 21 and serves as an installation position marker during installation, facilitating the installation operation. Specifically, when the end face of the insertion tube 21 rests against the first flange ring 311, it indicates that the installation is in place. Preferably, the first flange ring 311 is integrally formed with the hollow connecting column 31 or is separately provided. When separately provided, the first flange ring 311 is sleeved and fixed on the outer circumferential surface of the hollow connecting column 31.

[0085] In some specific embodiments, reference is made to Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The hollow connecting column 31 is provided with a first flange ring 311, and the free end of the insertion tube 21 extends away from its centerline to form a second flange ring 211. When the hollow connecting column 31 is connected to the insertion tube 21, the end face of the first flange ring 311 abuts against or approaches the end face of the second flange ring 211, and the clamp is simultaneously engaged with the first flange ring 311 and the second flange ring 211 to lock their relative positions, thereby achieving a firm and sealed connection between the feeding device 3 and the replacement device 2.

[0086] In this embodiment, the clamp can be either a retaining ring or a snap fastener; any method that can lock both is acceptable, and no specific limitations are imposed. When a retaining ring is used, the first flange ring 311 and the second flange ring 211 are housed within the retaining ring, and the inner surface of the retaining ring tightly abuts against the outer circumferential surfaces of the two flange rings. Alternatively, several snap fasteners may simultaneously straddle the first flange ring 311 and the second flange ring 211, and be evenly distributed. Preferably, four snap fasteners are designed, each of which simultaneously straddles the first flange ring 311 and the second flange ring 211, and is evenly distributed along the outer circumference of the first flange ring and / or the second flange ring. Preferably, each snap fastener is U-shaped or C-shaped, with its opening straddling the first flange ring and the second flange ring, and is clamped together by bolts or locking devices.

[0087] In another embodiment of the invention, reference is made to... Figure 1 The combined structure further includes an adjustment component 5, which is mounted on the replacement device 2; specifically, the adjustment component 5 is mounted on the first segment structure 22. After the feed device 3 and the replacement device 2 are assembled, by adjusting the adjustment component 5, the ion source probe 1 can be precisely positioned at the center, wherein the center position refers to the position where the accelerating electric field of the accelerator's RF resonant cavity coincides spatially with the maximum magnetic flux region of its superconducting magnet, thereby optimizing the matching between the particle source and the accelerating electric field and improving the extraction beam intensity of the ion source.

[0088] refer to Figures 1 to 5 The first segment structure 22 includes a first connecting pipe 221 and a second connecting pipe 222. One end of the first connecting pipe 221 is connected to the manual gate valve 4 through a first flange structure 71, and the other end of the first connecting pipe 221 is connected to one end of the second connecting pipe 222 through a second flange structure 72. The other end of the second connecting pipe 222 has the insertion pipe 21. An adjustment component 5 for adjusting the center position of the ion source probe 1 is installed on the second connecting pipe 222.

[0089] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The adjustment assembly 5 includes a micrometer 51, a clamping plate 52, a seat plate 53, and a cross plate 54.

[0090] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the upper surface of the clamping plate 52 has a first opening (not shown in the figure), and the lower surface of the seat plate 53 has a second opening 531; the upper surface of the clamping plate 52 and the lower surface of the seat plate 53 are connected by fasteners 57. Preferably, the upper surface of the clamping plate 52 and the lower surface of the seat plate 53 are connected by bolts.

[0091] Specifically, both the first opening and the second opening 531 are semi-circular openings. After the upper end face of the clamping plate 52 is connected to the lower end face of the seat plate 53 by bolts 57, the first opening and the second opening 531 are aligned and form a circular through hole 56 that matches the outer circumferential surface of the second connecting pipe 222. The circular through hole 56 is sleeved on the second connecting pipe 222.

[0092] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the base plate 53 is rigidly connected to the cross-mount plate 54. The micrometer 51 is mounted on the upper surface of the cross-mount plate 54, and the measuring rod of the micrometer 51 (not shown in the figure) abuts against the ion source probe 1. By adjusting the micrometer 51, the measuring rod applies an axial adjustment driving force to the ion source probe 1, driving the ion source probe 1 to produce a small axial displacement along the insertion direction, ultimately achieving fine adjustment of the position of the ion source probe 1. In this way, the ion source probe 1 can be precisely positioned so that the accelerating electric field of the RF resonant cavity of the accelerator coincides spatially with the maximum magnetic flux region of its superconducting magnet, thereby optimizing the extracted beam intensity of the superconducting cyclotron accelerator.

[0093] In some specific embodiments, reference is made to Figures 6 to 8 The adjustment assembly 5 further includes a slider 55, which is slidably mounted on the upper surface of the cross-plate 54. One of the slider 55 and the cross-plate 54 has a groove 551, and the other has a slide rail 541 that slidably engages with the groove 551. The micrometer 51 and the slider 55 are arranged side-by-side on the upper surface of the cross-plate 54. For example, the slide rail 541 is mounted on the upper surface of the cross-plate 54, and the groove 551 is formed on the lower surface of the slider, with the slide rail 541 slidably engaging with the groove 551. By moving the slider 55, the axial installation position of the ion source probe 1 can be changed. The precise movement of the slider allows for precise adjustment of the ion source probe, thereby finding the optimal installation position of the ion source probe within the cyclotron. Therefore, by coordinating the adjustment of the slider 55 and the micrometer 51, precise fine-tuning of the position of the ion source probe 1 can be achieved.

[0094] In some specific embodiments, the two extraction pipes 6 of the extraction assembly are connected to the first connecting pipe 221; specifically, the axes of the two extraction pipes 6 intersect and are perpendicular to the axis of the first connecting pipe 221, and the axes of the two extraction pipes 6 are on the same straight line. After the extraction device is turned on, it can remove the gas in the first section structure 22 through the extraction pipes 6 and achieve uniform extraction, see Figure 2 .

[0095] This invention also provides a method for replacing the combined structure of a particle accelerator, see reference. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the combined structure of the particle accelerator includes an ion source probe 1, a replacement device 2, and a feed device 3. The feed device 3 has a hollow connecting post 31 at its connecting end. One end of the replacement device 2 has an insertion tube 21 that matches the hollow connecting post 31. The insertion tube 21 is detachably and sealed to the hollow connecting post 31 and is locked with a clamp. The ion source probe 1 passes through the feed device 3 and the replacement device 2, and the ion source probe 1 is sealed to the feed device 3 and is movable.

[0096] The replacement device 2 includes a first section structure 22 and a second section structure 23, and a manual gate valve 4 is arranged between the first section structure 22 and the second section structure 23; an adjustment component 5 is installed on the first section structure 22.

[0097] The present invention provides a method for replacing the combined structure of a particle accelerator, including a method for disassembling the combined structure of the particle accelerator and a method for installing the combined structure of the particle accelerator.

[0098] refer to Figure 9 The method for disassembling the ion source probe includes the following steps:

[0099] Step S101: First, manually pull the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe 1 away from the accelerator until the head of the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe leaves the control valve; preferably, the control valve has a distal end and a proximal end that are arranged opposite to each other, and the distal end is closer to the pumping device than the proximal end; when pulling the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe 1 away from the accelerator, stop the manual operation when the head of the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe moves to the distal end of the control valve.

[0100] Step S102: Close the control valve; preferably, the control valve is a vacuum gate valve 4.

[0101] Step S103: Disassemble the feeding device 3 so that the feeding device 3 is separated from the replacement device 2, and the disassembly is completed.

[0102] Specifically, the far end of the feeding device 3 is provided with the hollow connecting post 31, and the hollow connecting post 31 is provided with a first flange ring 311; the near end of the replacement device is provided with the insertion tube 21, and the free end of the insertion tube 21 extends away from its center line to form a second flange ring 211, the first flange ring 311 and the second flange ring are close together; the clamp is a retaining ring; during disassembly, first loosen the fasteners on the retaining ring, so that the inner circumferential surface of the retaining ring is separated from the outer circumferential surface of the first flange ring 311 and the second flange ring 211, and then remove the retaining ring from the two flange rings; finally, pull the feeding device away from the replacement device 2, so that the hollow connecting post 31 is separated from the insertion tube 21.

[0103] refer to Figure 10 The present invention provides a method for replacing the combined structure of a particle accelerator, which further includes an internal particle source installation method, comprising the following steps:

[0104] Step S201: Connect the feed device 3 installed on the ion source probe 1 to the replacement device 2 to complete the sealed installation; specifically, refer to... Figure 11 In step S2011, first insert the hollow connecting post 31 into the insertion tube 21 to ensure that the hollow connecting post 31 and the insertion tube 21 cooperate; in step S2012, then install the clamp at the connection between the hollow connecting post 31 and the insertion tube 21 to lock the connection between the hollow connecting post 31 and the insertion tube 21.

[0105] Step S202: Manually operate the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe 1 to move it towards the accelerator via the feed device 3 until the electrode rod 11 reaches the first sealed cavity and stops moving, while keeping the control valve in the closed state during this process;

[0106] Step S203: Open the vacuum device connected to the first sealed cavity to evacuate the first sealed cavity;

[0107] Step S204: Open the control valve, and then continue to manually operate the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe 1 so that it passes through the replacement device 2 and is fully inserted into the accelerator to complete the installation.

[0108] Further, refer to Figure 11 The step of sealingly connecting the feeding device 3 and the replacement device 2 includes:

[0109] Step S2011: First, insert the hollow connecting post 31 into the insertion tube 21 to ensure that the hollow connecting post 31 and the insertion tube 21 are properly engaged.

[0110] Step S2012: Next, install the clamp at the connection between the hollow connecting post 31 and the insertion tube 21 to lock the connection between the hollow connecting post 31 and the insertion tube 21.

[0111] Furthermore, after the ion source probe 1 is fully inserted into the accelerator, the following steps are also included: adjusting the axial position of the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe 1 using an adjustment component to ensure that the ion source probe is released at the center position of the accelerator, wherein: the center position is the position where the accelerating electric field of the RF resonant cavity of the accelerator coincides spatially with the maximum magnetic flux region of its superconducting magnet. Specifically, the axial adjustment of the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe 1 is precisely performed by adjusting the micrometer 51 and the slider 55.

[0112] In summary, the present invention provides a combined structure and replacement method for a particle accelerator. This combined structure includes an ion source probe 1, a replacement device 2, and a feed device 3. The feed device 3 has a hollow connecting post 31 at its connecting end; one end of the replacement device 2 has an insertion tube 21, which is detachably and sealed to the hollow connecting post 31. Therefore, the structure is simple and easy to assemble. When the ion source probe 1 needs to be replaced, simply manually pull out the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe 1 until the head of the electrode rod 11 leaves the control valve, then close the manual gate valve 4, and then separate the insertion tube 21 from the hollow connecting post 31. This allows for rapid connection between the feed device 3 and the replacement device 2. During disassembly and installation, simply connect the feed device 3 mounted on the ion source probe 1 to the replacement device 2, then manually push the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe until it is inside the first sealed cavity; then open the evacuation device connected to the first sealed cavity to evacuate the first sealed cavity; then open the control valve, and then continue to manually operate the electrode rod 11 of the ion source probe 1 until it passes through the replacement device 2 and is fully inserted into the accelerator; it can be seen that the entire replacement process will not disrupt the high vacuum condition of the accelerator's central cavity, enabling rapid replacement of the particle source; at the same time, after installation, the position of the ion source probe 1 can be finely adjusted by adjusting the component 5, thereby optimizing its matching with the accelerating electric field and maximizing the intensity of the particle extraction beam.

[0113] The above description of the disclosed embodiments enables those skilled in the art to make or use the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A combined structure for a particle accelerator, characterized in that, The combined structure includes an ion source probe, a replacement device, and a feeding device; The replacement device has a through cavity along its centerline; the replacement device and the feeding device each have a distal end and a proximal end that are arranged opposite to each other. The proximal end of the replacement device is detachably and sealed to the distal end of the feed device; the distal end of the replacement device is sealed to the accelerator. The replacement device is equipped with an air extraction device and a control valve; when the control valve is open, the cavity of the accelerator is connected to the cavity of the replacement device; when the control valve is closed, the cavity of the replacement device is divided into an independent first sealed cavity and a second cavity, wherein: the air extraction device is connected to the first sealed cavity; and the second cavity is connected to the cavity inside the accelerator. Part of the ion source probe passes through the cavity of the feeding device and the replacement device, and the ion source probe is sealed to the feeding device and is movable.

2. The combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The proximal end of the replacement device and the distal end of the feeding device are connected by an insertion tube and a hollow connecting post, wherein: one of the proximal end of the replacement device and the distal end of the feeding device is provided with a hollow connecting post, and the other is provided with an insertion tube that mates with the hollow connecting post.

3. The combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The replacement device includes a first section structure and a second section structure; the control valve is arranged between the first section structure and the second section structure, and the first section structure and the second section structure are respectively connected to the control valve by fasteners; an air extraction assembly is provided on the first section structure; the insertion tube is located at the end of the first section structure away from the control valve; wherein: the first sealing cavity is located inside the first section structure, and the second cavity is located inside the second section structure.

4. The combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 3, characterized in that, The control valve is a vacuum gate valve; the first section and the second section are respectively connected to the vacuum gate valve through the first flange structure.

5. The combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 4, characterized in that, A sealing ring is provided on the hollow connecting column and / or a sealing ring is provided inside the insertion tube.

6. The combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 5, characterized in that, A clamp for locking the insertion tube to the hollow connecting post is installed on the outer circumference of the insertion tube.

7. The combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 6, characterized in that, The hollow connecting column is provided with a first flange ring; when the hollow connecting column is connected to the insertion tube, the first flange ring abuts against the end face of the insertion tube.

8. The combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 7, characterized in that, The free end of the insertion tube extends away from the center line of the insertion tube to form a second flange ring; when the hollow connecting column is connected to the insertion tube, the clamp is engaged with the second flange ring and the first flange ring.

9. The combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first segment structure includes a first connecting tube and a second connecting tube. One end of the first connecting tube is connected to the vacuum gate valve through a first flange structure, and the other end of the first connecting tube is connected to one end of the second connecting tube through a second flange structure. The other end of the second connecting tube has the insertion tube. An adjustment component for adjusting the center position of the ion source probe is installed on the second connecting tube.

10. The combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 9, characterized in that, The adjustment assembly includes a micrometer, a clamping plate with a first opening, a base plate with a second opening, and a cross plate; the lower end face of the base plate is connected to the upper end face of the clamping plate by fasteners, and the space enclosed by the first opening and the second opening matches the outer peripheral surface of the second connecting tube; the upper end face of the base plate is connected to one end of the lower surface of the cross plate; the micrometer is mounted on the upper surface of the cross plate, and the measuring rod of the micrometer abuts against the ion source probe.

11. The combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 10, characterized in that, The adjustment assembly further includes a slider, which is slidably mounted on the upper surface of the cross plate; wherein, one of the slider and the cross plate is provided with a groove, and the other is provided with a slide rail that slides in cooperation with the groove.

12. The combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ion source probe can rotate or move relative to the feeding device.

13. A method for replacing the combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 9, characterized in that, The vacuum gate valve is a manual gate valve.

14. A method for replacing the combined structure of a particle accelerator, characterized in that, The replacement method includes a combined structure of the particle accelerator as described in any one of the preceding claims, comprising an ion source probe disassembly method, including the following steps: Step S101: First, manually operate the electrode rod of the ion source probe and pull it away from the accelerator until the head of the electrode rod of the ion source probe leaves the control valve. Step S102: Close the control valve; Step S103: Disassemble the feeding device to separate it from the replacement device, thus completing the disassembly.

15. A method for replacing the combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 14, characterized in that, It also includes an internal particle source installation method, which includes the following steps: Step S201: Connect the feed device installed on the ion source probe to the replacement device to complete the sealed installation; Step S202: Manually operate the electrode rod of the ion source probe to move it towards the accelerator via the feed device until the electrode rod reaches the first sealed cavity and stops moving, while keeping the control valve in the closed state during this process; Step S203: Open the vacuum device connected to the first sealed cavity to evacuate the first sealed cavity; Step S204: Open the control valve, and then continue to manually operate the electrode rod of the ion source probe so that it passes through the replacement device and is fully inserted into the accelerator to complete the installation.

16. A method for replacing the combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 15, characterized in that, The step of sealingly connecting the feed device and the replacement device includes: Step S2011: First, insert the hollow connecting post into the insertion tube to ensure that the hollow connecting post mates with the insertion tube; Step S2012: Next, install the clamp at the connection between the hollow connecting post and the insertion tube to lock the connection between the hollow connecting post and the insertion tube.

17. A method for replacing the combined structure of a particle accelerator according to claim 15, characterized in that, After opening the control valve and then manually operating the electrode rod of the ion source probe to pass through the replacement device and be fully inserted into the accelerator, the following steps are also included: using an adjustment component to finely adjust the axial position of the electrode rod of the ion source probe to ensure that the ion source probe is released at the center position of the accelerator, wherein: the center position is the position where the accelerating electric field of the RF resonant cavity of the accelerator coincides in space with the maximum magnetic flux region of its superconducting magnet.

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