X-ray tube filament condition monitoring method, vacuum condition monitoring method and system

Abstract

The application is suitable for the technical field of X-ray tube monitoring, and provides a filament state monitoring method, a vacuum state monitoring method and a system for an X-ray tube.The method comprises the following steps: establishing a potential gradient relationship among an emitting electrode, an accelerating electrode and a vacuum monitoring electrode, so that the potential of the accelerating electrode is greater than the potential of the emitting electrode, and the potential of the vacuum monitoring electrode; applying alternating current to a cathode to make the filament emit electrons; wherein the emitting electrode is a cathode of the X-ray tube, and the cathode has a filament; collecting an electric signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode; and analyzing the electric signal to obtain the vacuum state of the X-ray tube.The application can effectively monitor the filament state and the vacuum state of the X-ray tube by establishing a specific potential gradient relationship, collecting an electric signal and analyzing the electric signal, thereby improving the use safety and reliability of the X-ray tube.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of X-ray tube monitoring technology, and particularly relates to a method and system for monitoring the filament status and vacuum status of an X-ray tube. Background Technology

[0002] An X-ray tube is an electronic vacuum device that generates X-rays and is widely used in medical diagnostics, industrial non-destructive testing, and security inspection. The working principle of an X-ray tube is to emit electrons by heating a filament; these electrons are then accelerated under high voltage to bombard a target material, producing X-rays. The performance and lifespan of the X-ray tube directly affect the stability and reliability of the entire X-ray system; therefore, monitoring the condition of the X-ray tube is of paramount importance.

[0003] In existing technologies, X-ray tubes typically include basic structures such as a cathode, anode, and tube shell. The cathode is generally composed of a filament and is used to emit electrons; the anode is used to receive electrons and generate X-rays; and the tube shell is used to maintain a vacuum environment and provide mechanical support. To improve the performance of X-ray tubes, some X-ray tubes also have auxiliary structures such as a grid and focusing electrode. Multi-filament X-ray tubes usually have multiple independently controllable filaments, and the state of these filaments directly affects the performance and lifespan of the X-ray tube. However, existing technologies lack a method to simultaneously monitor the state of multiple filaments and detect the decline in the electron emission capability of a particular filament, making it difficult to accurately assess and provide early warning of the overall state of the X-ray tube.

[0004] Furthermore, since the X-ray tube is in a sealed state during operation, directly adding a vacuum gauge for measurement would introduce additional risk factors and affect the normal operation of the X-ray tube. Existing technology also uses a test resistor connected to the metal part of the outer casing to measure the vacuum level of the X-ray tube. However, this method produces a weak electrical signal, has a large error, and makes it difficult to guarantee the accuracy of the measurement results. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a method and system for monitoring the filament state of an X-ray tube, as well as a method and system for monitoring the vacuum state, to solve the aforementioned technical problems.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a method for monitoring the filament state of an X-ray tube, wherein the X-ray tube includes a system for monitoring the vacuum state, and the system for monitoring the vacuum state includes an emitter, an accelerating electrode, and a vacuum monitoring electrode;

[0007] The X-ray tube further includes multiple independently controllable filaments, wherein the multiple independently controllable filaments include at least a first filament and a second filament, and the filament status monitoring method includes:

[0008] Establish a potential gradient relationship between the emitter, the accelerating electrode and the vacuum monitoring electrode, such that the accelerating electrode potential > the emitter potential > the vacuum monitoring electrode potential;

[0009] Alternating current is applied to the first filament and the second filament respectively, causing the first filament and the second filament to emit electrons individually;

[0010] When the first filament emits electrons alone, the electrical signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode is collected to obtain the first electrical signal;

[0011] When the second filament emits electrons independently, the electrical signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode is collected to obtain the second electrical signal;

[0012] The first electrical signal and the second electrical signal are analyzed to obtain the usage status of the first filament and / or the second filament.

[0013] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube includes a tube shell and an anode, the accelerating electrode is the tube shell, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the anode;

[0014] Alternatively, the X-ray tube includes the tube shell, the anode, and the gate, with the accelerating electrode being the anode and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the gate;

[0015] Alternatively, the X-ray tube includes the tube housing, the anode, the gate, the accelerating electrode being the tube housing, and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the gate;

[0016] Alternatively, the X-ray tube may include the anode and the ion collecting electrode, with the accelerating electrode being the anode and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the ion collecting electrode.

[0017] In some embodiments, both the first filament and the second filament are located at the cathode. The analysis of the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal to obtain the usage status of the first filament and / or the second filament includes:

[0018] The first electrical signal is filtered to obtain the first state value;

[0019] The second electrical signal is processed in the same way as the first electrical signal to obtain a second state value. The difference between the second state value and the first state value is calculated. If the absolute value of the difference after the difference is greater than a first threshold, it is determined that the filament corresponding to the smaller of the second state value and the first state value has experienced a decline in electron emission capability.

[0020] Alternatively, the first filament is an exhaust filament, and the second filament is located at the cathode. The analysis of the first and second electrical signals to obtain the usage status of the first and / or second filaments includes:

[0021] The first electrical signal is filtered to obtain the first state value;

[0022] The second electrical signal is processed in the same way as the first electrical signal to obtain a second state value. The difference between the second state value and the first state value is calculated. If the absolute value of the difference after the difference is greater than a second threshold, it is determined that the electron emission capability of the second filament has deteriorated.

[0023] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a method for monitoring the vacuum state of an X-ray tube, wherein the X-ray tube includes a system for monitoring the vacuum state, and the system for monitoring the vacuum state includes an emitter, an accelerating electrode, and a vacuum monitoring electrode; the method includes:

[0024] Establish a potential gradient relationship between the emitter, the accelerating electrode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode, such that the accelerating electrode potential > the emitter potential > the vacuum monitoring electrode potential;

[0025] An alternating current is applied to the cathode, causing the cathode filament to emit electrons; wherein the emitting electrode is the cathode of the X-ray tube, and the cathode has a filament;

[0026] Collect the electrical signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode;

[0027] The vacuum state of the X-ray tube is obtained by analyzing the electrical signal.

[0028] The X-ray tube includes a tube shell and an anode, the accelerating electrode is the tube shell, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the anode;

[0029] Alternatively, the X-ray tube includes the tube shell, the anode, and the gate, with the accelerating electrode being the anode and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the gate;

[0030] Alternatively, the X-ray tube includes the tube housing, the anode, the gate, the accelerating electrode being the tube housing, and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the gate;

[0031] Alternatively, the X-ray tube may include the anode and the ion collecting electrode, with the accelerating electrode being the anode and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the ion collecting electrode.

[0032] In some embodiments, applying alternating current to the cathode to cause the cathode filament to emit electrons includes:

[0033] Based on the usage time of the X-ray tube and the correspondence between the filament current and the usage time of the X-ray tube, the filament current value for applying alternating current to the cathode is determined.

[0034] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube includes a tube shell and an anode, the accelerating electrode is the tube shell, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the anode;

[0035] Establishing the potential gradient relationship between the emitter, the accelerating electrode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode, such that the accelerating electrode potential > the emitter potential > the vacuum monitoring electrode potential, includes:

[0036] The anode is grounded, the cathode is connected to a positive potential, and the tube shell is connected to a positive potential.

[0037] Alternatively, the casing can be grounded, the cathode can be connected to a negative potential, and the anode can be connected to a negative potential.

[0038] Make the tube shell potential > cathode potential > anode potential.

[0039] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a method for monitoring the vacuum state of an X-ray tube, wherein the X-ray tube includes an exhaust filament, and the method includes:

[0040] Establish a potential gradient relationship between the emitter, the accelerating electrode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode, such that the accelerating electrode potential > the emitter potential > the vacuum monitoring electrode potential;

[0041] Applying alternating current to the exhaust filament causes it to emit electrons;

[0042] Collect the electrical signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode;

[0043] The vacuum state of the X-ray tube is obtained by analyzing the electrical signal.

[0044] Fourthly, embodiments of this application also provide a system for monitoring the vacuum state of an X-ray tube.

[0045] The system for monitoring the vacuum state includes:

[0046] The emitter, including the filament, is used to emit electrons;

[0047] An accelerating electrode is used to accelerate the electrons emitted by the emitter along a preset path.

[0048] A vacuum monitoring electrode is used to receive electrical signals generated by ions, wherein the ions are generated by the collision and ionization of some of the electrons emitted by the emitter with gas molecules;

[0049] A first power supply, connected to at least two of the emitter, accelerating electrode, and vacuum monitoring electrode, is used to establish a potential gradient relationship among the emitter, accelerating electrode, and vacuum monitoring electrode, such that the accelerating electrode potential > the emitter potential > the vacuum monitoring electrode potential.

[0050] A second power source, connected to the filament, is used to apply alternating current to the filament, causing the filament to emit electrons;

[0051] An electrical signal acquisition device is connected to the vacuum monitoring electrode and is used to acquire the electrical signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode;

[0052] The processing device is connected to the electrical signal acquisition device and is used to analyze the electrical signal to obtain the vacuum state of the X-ray tube.

[0053] in,

[0054] The X-ray tube includes a tube shell and an anode, the accelerating electrode is the tube shell, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the anode;

[0055] Alternatively, the X-ray tube includes the tube shell, the anode, and the gate, with the accelerating electrode being the anode and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the gate;

[0056] Alternatively, the X-ray tube includes the tube housing, the anode, the gate, the accelerating electrode being the tube housing, and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the gate;

[0057] Alternatively, the X-ray tube may include the anode and the ion collecting electrode, with the accelerating electrode being the anode and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the ion collecting electrode.

[0058] In some embodiments, the emitting electrode is the cathode of the X-ray tube;

[0059] Alternatively, the X-ray tube may include an exhaust filament, wherein the filament is an exhaust filament.

[0060] Fifthly, embodiments of this application also provide an X-ray tube, the X-ray tube including the system described above for monitoring the vacuum state of the X-ray tube.

[0061] Compared to existing technologies, some embodiments of this invention can provide early warning before X-ray tube vacuum leakage failure, improving safety. The lifespan of the X-ray tube can be estimated based on its usage, avoiding sudden failures in critical application scenarios. Some embodiments of this application eliminate the need for complex sensors inside the X-ray tube, offering significant convenience and operability, and providing more accurate vacuum measurements that comprehensively reflect the X-ray tube's condition. Some embodiments of this application are applicable to various X-ray tube structures, including grid-controlled X-ray tubes, anode-grounded X-ray tubes, and multi-filament X-ray tubes; data comparison allows for the assessment of the usage status of each filament. Attached Figure Description

[0062] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0063] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a system for monitoring the vacuum state of an X-ray tube in some embodiments of this application;

[0064] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the X-ray tube in some embodiments of this application;

[0065] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the relationship between vacuum level and signal strength in some embodiments of this application;

[0066] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of gas ionization motion in some embodiments of this application;

[0067] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of potentials in some embodiments of this application;

[0068] Figure 6 This describes the principle of gas ionization motion in the grid-controlled X-ray tube in some embodiments of this application;

[0069] Figure 7 This describes the principle of gas ionization motion in the anode-connected earth tube in some embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0070] In the following description, specific details such as particular system architectures and techniques are set forth for illustrative purposes and not for limitation, in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of this application. However, those skilled in the art will understand that this application may also be implemented in other embodiments without these specific details. In other instances, detailed descriptions of well-known systems, apparatuses, circuits, and methods have been omitted so as not to obscure the description of this application with unnecessary detail.

[0071] It should be understood that, when used in this application specification and the appended claims, the term "comprising" indicates the presence of the described features, integrals, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components and / or a collection thereof.

[0072] It should also be understood that the term “and / or” as used in this application specification and the appended claims means any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations, and includes such combinations.

[0073] As used in this application specification and the appended claims, the term "if" may be interpreted, depending on the context, as "when," "once," "in response to determination," or "in response to detection." Similarly, the phrase "if determined" or "if detected [the described condition or event]" may be interpreted, depending on the context, as meaning "once determined," "in response to determination," "once detected [the described condition or event]," or "in response to detection [the described condition or event]."

[0074] Furthermore, in the description of this application and the appended claims, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0075] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" as described in this specification mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0076] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a system for monitoring the vacuum state of an X-ray tube in some embodiments of this application. (Reference) Figure 1In some embodiments, a system for monitoring the vacuum state of an X-ray tube is provided, the system comprising the following components:

[0077] The emitter 100 includes a filament, which is used to emit electrons. When the filament is energized, it emits electrons by heating, and is the main source of electrons.

[0078] Accelerating electrode 200 is used to accelerate electrons emitted by emitter 100 along a preset path. Accelerating electrode 200 accelerates electrons by applying a high potential, causing them to move along the preset path.

[0079] The vacuum monitoring electrode 300 is used to receive electrical signals generated by ions. Ions are produced by the ionization of some electrons emitted from the emitter 100 through collisions with gas molecules. The vacuum monitoring electrode 300 collects ions to form a measurable electrical signal.

[0080] A first power supply 400 is connected to at least two of the emitter 100, accelerating electrode 200, and vacuum monitoring electrode 300. This first power supply establishes a potential gradient relationship among the emitter 100, accelerating electrode 200, and vacuum monitoring electrode 300, such that the accelerating electrode potential > the emitter potential > the vacuum monitoring electrode potential. This potential gradient relationship ensures the directional movement of electrons from the emitter 100 to the accelerating electrode 200, and that ions are received by the vacuum monitoring electrode 300.

[0081] The second power supply 500 is connected to the filament and is used to apply alternating current to the filament, causing it to emit electrons. The application of alternating current heats the filament to a sufficiently high temperature, thereby causing it to emit electrons.

[0082] An electrical signal acquisition device 600 is connected to the vacuum monitoring electrode 300 and is used to acquire electrical signals from the vacuum monitoring electrode 300. In some embodiments, the electrical signal acquisition device 600 may be an ammeter, a voltmeter, or a dedicated signal acquisition device.

[0083] The processing device 700, connected to the electrical signal acquisition device 600, is used to analyze the electrical signal to obtain the vacuum state of the X-ray tube. In some embodiments, the processing device 700 may be a computer, a microcontroller, or a dedicated signal processing device.

[0084] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the X-ray tube structure in some embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 2As shown, the main components of an X-ray tube include a cathode 1000, an anode 2000, a tube shell 3000, and a tube sleeve 4000. The cathode 1000 and anode 2000 are partially vacuum-sealed within the tube shell 3000 and insulated from it by insulating components. The cathode 1000, anode 2000, and tube shell 3000 together form the tube core, which is housed within the tube sleeve 4000, with insulating oil filling the space between them. The cathode 1000 has a filament 1001. When the filament 1001 is lit with a specific current, electrons emitted by the filament move in an orderly fashion within the tube core, colliding with gas molecules and generating ions. The vacuum monitoring electrode receives these ions and generates an electrical signal. By analyzing this signal, the vacuum level of the X-ray tube can be determined. In the embodiments of this application, there is no need to add complex sensors inside the X-ray tube, offering significant convenience and operability. Vacuum measurement is more accurate and can truly reflect the state of the X-ray tube.

[0085] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube can have various structural configurations. Different structural configurations can correspond to systems that monitor different vacuum conditions.

[0086] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube may include a housing and an anode. Correspondingly, the accelerating electrode is the housing, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the anode.

[0087] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube includes a housing, an anode, and a gate. Correspondingly, the accelerating electrode is the anode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the gate. Alternatively, the accelerating electrode is the housing, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the gate.

[0088] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube includes an anode and an ion collecting electrode. Correspondingly, the accelerating electrode is the anode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the ion collecting electrode.

[0089] In some embodiments of this application, different vacuum monitoring electrodes can be used for different X-ray tube structures, resulting in longer electron movement paths, stronger signals, and more accurate measurement results.

[0090] In some embodiments, the emitting electrode is the cathode of the X-ray tube, and the cathode has a filament.

[0091] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube includes an exhaust filament, wherein the filament is an exhaust filament.

[0092] It is understandable that an X-ray tube includes both an exhaust filament and a cathode filament. The cathode filament is primarily used during the normal operation of the X-ray tube. The exhaust filament does not operate during normal use. The exhaust filament is typically used for vacuum venting of the X-ray tube before it leaves the factory, and its condition remains the same as at the factory.

[0093] In some embodiments of this application, a method for monitoring the vacuum state of an X-ray tube is also provided, comprising:

[0094] Establish a potential gradient relationship between the emitter, the accelerating electrode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode, such that the accelerating electrode potential > the emitter potential > the vacuum monitoring electrode potential;

[0095] An alternating current is applied to the cathode, causing the cathode filament to emit electrons; wherein the emitting electrode is the cathode of the X-ray tube, and the cathode has a filament;

[0096] Collect the electrical signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode;

[0097] The vacuum state of the X-ray tube is obtained by analyzing the electrical signal.

[0098] In the embodiments of this application, the method for monitoring the vacuum state of the X-ray tube can be applied to the X-ray tube in any of the above embodiments, or it can be performed using the system for monitoring the vacuum state of the X-ray tube in the above embodiments.

[0099] In some embodiments, applying alternating current to the cathode to cause the cathode filament to emit electrons can be achieved by determining the filament current value applied to the cathode based on the usage time of the X-ray tube and the correspondence between the filament current and the usage time of the X-ray tube. In the embodiments of this application, the filament current is adjusted according to the actual usage time of the X-ray tube to ensure the accuracy of the test. Specifically, different filament current values ​​are given at different stages of the X-ray tube's lifespan. The filament current values ​​can be obtained by looking up a preset table, and the obtained electrical signal data can be used to calculate the vacuum level of the X-ray tube.

[0100] In some embodiments, the longer the X-ray tube is used, the greater the filament current value. In the embodiments of this application, the filament current value applied to the cathode by alternating current is adjusted according to the usage time of the X-ray tube, thereby ensuring that the actual filament current is constant and avoiding a decrease in the number of emitted electrons due to aging of the filament.

[0101] In some embodiments, a second power source is connected to the cathode to apply alternating current to the cathode, causing the filament to emit electrons. The filament current applied to the cathode can be 1-8A.

[0102] In some embodiments of this application, analyzing the electrical signal to obtain the vacuum state of the X-ray tube includes: filtering the electrical signal to obtain its intensity characteristics, i.e., signal strength. In some embodiments, the electrical signal is a current signal. The intensity characteristics of the electrical signal are current values.

[0103] In some embodiments, the current Iion generated by the ionization of residual gas molecules by the electron beam and collected by the vacuum monitoring electrode is positively correlated with the vacuum level P of the X-ray tube. The vacuum level of the X-ray tube can be obtained by measuring the current signal and combining it with a calibration coefficient. Specifically, it can be calculated using the following formula:

[0104]

[0105] Where k is the calibration coefficient and Ic is the filament current value to which alternating current is applied to the cathode.

[0106] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the relationship between vacuum level and signal strength in some embodiments of this application. (Reference) Figure 3 In some embodiments, a correlation curve between vacuum level and signal strength can be pre-established. The vacuum level can then be directly obtained based on the measured signal strength and the correlation curve.

[0107] In embodiments of this application, when the vacuum level deteriorates to above 10⁻³ Pa, the signal strength can reach the microampere level (e.g., Ion ≥ 2 μA). In some embodiments, an alarm threshold can be set based on the signal strength. When the measured signal strength exceeds the alarm threshold, an alarm signal is issued.

[0108] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube can have various structural configurations. Different structural configurations can correspond to systems that monitor different vacuum conditions.

[0109] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube may include a housing and an anode. Correspondingly, the accelerating electrode is the housing, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the anode.

[0110] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube includes a housing, an anode, and a gate. Correspondingly, the accelerating electrode is the anode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the gate. Alternatively, the accelerating electrode is the housing, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the gate.

[0111] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube includes an anode and an ion collecting electrode. Correspondingly, the accelerating electrode is the anode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the ion collecting electrode.

[0112] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of gas ionization motion in some embodiments of this application. (Reference) Figure 4 In some embodiments of this application, the method for monitoring the vacuum state of an X-ray tube is applicable to an X-ray tube that includes at least a cathode 1000, an anode 2000, and a tube shell 3000, wherein the cathode 1000 includes a filament.

[0113] The vacuum condition monitoring method includes the following steps:

[0114] A potential gradient relationship is established between the tube shell, cathode, and anode, such that the tube shell potential > cathode potential > anode potential. This potential gradient relationship ensures the directional movement of electrons from the cathode to the tube shell, and ions are collected by the anode.

[0115] Based on the aforementioned potential gradient, an alternating current is applied to the cathode, causing the filament to emit electrons. The application of the alternating current heats the filament to a sufficiently high temperature, thereby emitting electrons.

[0116] The electrical signal is collected at the anode. When electrons emitted by the filament collide with residual gas molecules inside the X-ray tube to produce ions, these ions are collected by the anode to form an electrical signal.

[0117] The vacuum state of the X-ray tube is obtained by analyzing the electrical signal. The vacuum level inside the X-ray tube can be determined by analyzing the intensity characteristics of the electrical signal.

[0118] In the embodiments of this application, the X-ray tube may include a tube shell and an anode. Correspondingly, the accelerating electrode is the tube shell, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the anode. In the embodiments of this application, the vacuum level of the X-ray tube can be monitored without adding extra parts to the X-ray tube, and the electron movement path is longer, resulting in a stronger detected electrical signal and more accurate vacuum measurement. In addition, the state of the X-ray tube can be effectively monitored based on the vacuum level, which can reduce the probability of accidents caused by X-ray tube failure.

[0119] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of potentials in some embodiments of this application. (Reference) Figure 5 In some embodiments, establishing the potential gradient relationship between the casing, cathode, and anode, such that the casing potential > cathode potential > anode potential, can be achieved by grounding the anode C, connecting the cathode F to a positive potential, and connecting the casing A to a positive potential (e.g., ...). Figure 5 In the middle (a)), an alternating current AC of several amperes is suspended on the cathode (L and F) to ensure that the cathode filament is lit and emits electrons; or the tube shell A is grounded, the cathode F is connected to a negative potential, and the anode C is connected to a negative potential (e.g. Figure 5 In (b), an alternating current AC of several amperes is suspended on the cathode (L and F) to ensure that the cathode filament is lit to emit electrons.

[0120] In some embodiments, the first power supply includes a first DC power supply and a second DC power supply. The anode C is directly grounded (potential is 0V), the cathode F is supplied with a voltage V1 ranging from +1000V to +4000V through the first DC power supply, and the casing A is independently supplied with a positive bias voltage V2 through the second DC power supply, satisfying V2>V1. Specifically, the cathode potential can be set to +1000V, and the casing potential to +4000V, forming an electric field gradient between the casing, cathode, and anode.

[0121] In some embodiments, the first power supply includes a first DC power supply and a second DC power supply. The casing A is grounded (potential is 0V), the cathode F is supplied with a voltage V1 ranging from -3000V to -6000V through the first DC power supply, and the anode C is supplied with a negative bias voltage V3 through the second DC power supply, satisfying |V1| < |V3|. Specifically, the cathode potential can be set to -3000V, and the anode potential can be set to -4000V, forming an effective accelerating voltage of 1000V.

[0122] Figure 6 This describes the principle of gas ionization motion in a grid-controlled X-ray tube in some embodiments of this application. (Reference) Figure 6 In some embodiments, the X-ray tube includes a cathode 1000, an anode 2000, a tube shell 3000, and a grid 5000, wherein the cathode 1000 includes a filament. This X-ray tube is a grid-controlled X-ray tube. Correspondingly, the vacuum state monitoring method for this X-ray tube includes the following two implementation methods:

[0123] Implementation Method 1: Establish a potential gradient relationship between the casing 3000, cathode 1000, and grid 5000, such that the casing potential > cathode potential > grid potential. This potential gradient relationship ensures the directional movement of electrons from the cathode 1000 to the casing 3000, while ions are collected by the grid 5000.

[0124] Based on the aforementioned potential gradient, an alternating current is applied to the cathode 1000, causing the filament to emit electrons. The application of the alternating current heats the filament to a sufficiently high temperature, thereby emitting electrons.

[0125] The electrical signal from the grid 5000 is collected. When electrons emitted by the filament collide with residual gas molecules inside the X-ray tube to produce ions, these ions are collected by the grid 5000 to form an electrical signal.

[0126] The vacuum state of the X-ray tube is obtained by analyzing the electrical signal. The vacuum level inside the X-ray tube can be determined by analyzing the intensity characteristics of the electrical signal.

[0127] In some embodiments, the first power supply includes a first DC power supply and a second DC power supply. The gate 5000 is directly grounded (potential is 0V), the cathode 1000 is supplied with a voltage V1 of +1000V to +4000V through the first DC power supply, and the package 3000 is supplied with a positive bias voltage V2 independently through the second DC power supply, satisfying V2>V1.

[0128] Implementation Method 2: Establish a potential gradient relationship between the anode 2000, cathode 1000, and grid 5000, such that the anode potential > cathode potential > grid potential. This potential gradient relationship ensures the directional movement of electrons from the cathode 1000 to the anode 2000, while ions are collected by the grid 5000.

[0129] Based on the aforementioned potential gradient, an alternating current is applied to the cathode 1000, causing the filament to emit electrons. The application of the alternating current heats the filament to a sufficiently high temperature, thereby emitting electrons.

[0130] The electrical signal from the grid 5000 is collected. When electrons emitted by the filament collide with residual gas molecules inside the X-ray tube to produce ions, these ions are collected by the grid 5000 to form an electrical signal.

[0131] The vacuum state of the X-ray tube is obtained by analyzing the electrical signal. The vacuum level inside the X-ray tube can be determined by analyzing the intensity characteristics of the electrical signal.

[0132] In some embodiments, the first power supply includes a first DC power supply and a second DC power supply. The gate 5000 is directly grounded (potential is 0V), the cathode 1000 is supplied with a voltage V1 of +1000V to +4000V through the first DC power supply, and the anode 2000 is supplied with a positive bias voltage V3 independently through the second DC power supply, and V3>V1.

[0133] Figure 7 This describes the principle of gas ionization and movement in the anode-connected earth pipe in some embodiments of this application. (Reference) Figure 7 In some embodiments, the X-ray tube includes a cathode 1000, an anode 2000, and an ion collecting electrode 6000, wherein the cathode 1000 includes a filament. The ion collecting electrode 6000 is located inside a tube housing 3000, and an electrical signal acquisition device connected to the ion collecting electrode 6000 is located outside the tube housing 3000. The electrical signal of the ion collecting electrode 6000 can be directly measured by the electrical signal acquisition device. This X-ray tube is an anode-to-earth tube. Correspondingly, the method for monitoring the vacuum state of the X-ray tube includes:

[0134] A potential gradient relationship is established between the cathode, anode, and ion collector, such that the anode potential > cathode potential > ion collector potential. This potential gradient relationship ensures the directional movement of electrons from the cathode to the anode, while the low potential of the ion collector can effectively collect the generated ions.

[0135] Based on the aforementioned potential gradient, an alternating current is applied to the cathode, causing the filament to emit electrons. The application of the alternating current heats the filament to a sufficiently high temperature, thereby emitting electrons.

[0136] The electrical signal is collected by the ion collecting electrode. When electrons emitted by the filament collide with residual gas molecules inside the X-ray tube to produce ions, these ions are collected by the ion collecting electrode to form an electrical signal.

[0137] The vacuum state of the X-ray tube is obtained by analyzing the electrical signal. The vacuum level inside the X-ray tube can be determined by analyzing the intensity characteristics of the electrical signal.

[0138] In some embodiments, the first power supply includes a first DC power supply and a second DC power supply. The anode is grounded (potential is 0V), the cathode is supplied with a voltage V1 ranging from -3000V to -6000V through the first DC power supply, and the ion collecting electrode is supplied with a negative bias voltage V4 through the second DC power supply, satisfying |V1|<|V4|. Specifically, the cathode potential can be set to -3000V, and the ion collecting electrode potential can be set to -4000V, forming an effective accelerating voltage of 1000V.

[0139] In some embodiments, a method for monitoring the vacuum state of an X-ray tube, the X-ray tube including an exhaust filament, is also provided, the method comprising:

[0140] Establish a potential gradient relationship between the emitter, the accelerating electrode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode, such that the accelerating electrode potential > the emitter potential > the vacuum monitoring electrode potential;

[0141] Applying alternating current to the exhaust filament causes it to emit electrons;

[0142] Collect the electrical signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode;

[0143] The vacuum state of the X-ray tube is obtained by analyzing the electrical signal.

[0144] In the embodiments of this application, the X-ray tube includes an exhaust filament. For the X-ray tube with an exhaust filament of this application, the exhaust filament can be directly used as the emitting electrode. The exhaust filament is not used during the operation of the X-ray tube and remains in its factory condition, making it a standard filament. In the embodiments of this application, the exhaust filament emits electrons, and the filament current value of the alternating current applied to the exhaust filament can remain constant, simplifying operation and ensuring accurate results.

[0145] In the embodiments of this application, the potential gradient relationship between the emitter, the accelerating electrode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is established in such a way that the accelerating electrode potential > the emitter potential > the vacuum monitoring electrode potential can be the same as in other embodiments.

[0146] In the embodiments of this application, the method of analyzing the electrical signal to obtain the vacuum state of the X-ray tube can be the same as in other embodiments.

[0147] In some embodiments, a method for monitoring the filament state of an X-ray tube is provided, applicable to X-ray tubes comprising multiple independently controllable filaments. The X-ray tube includes the system for monitoring the vacuum state of the X-ray tube as described in the above embodiments, the system comprising an emitter, an accelerating electrode, and a vacuum monitoring electrode. The X-ray tube also includes multiple independently controllable filaments, including at least a first filament and a second filament.

[0148] The filament condition monitoring method includes the following steps:

[0149] A potential gradient relationship is established between the emitter, accelerating electrode, and vacuum monitoring electrode, such that the accelerating electrode potential is greater than the emitter potential, which in turn is greater than the vacuum monitoring electrode potential. This potential gradient relationship ensures the directional movement of electrons from the emitter to the accelerating electrode, while the vacuum monitoring electrode can collect the ions generated by ionization.

[0150] Alternating current is applied to the first and second filaments respectively, causing each filament to emit electrons independently. The application of alternating current heats the filaments, enabling independent control of the different filaments and ensuring that only one filament operates at a time during the test.

[0151] When the first filament emits electrons alone, the electrical signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode is collected to obtain the first electrical signal. When the first filament emits electrons, some electrons collide with residual gas molecules in the X-ray tube to generate ions, which are collected by the vacuum monitoring electrode to form an electrical signal.

[0152] When the second filament emits electrons independently, the electrical signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode is collected to obtain a second electrical signal. Similarly, when the second filament emits electrons, ions are generated and collected by the vacuum monitoring electrode to form an electrical signal.

[0153] Analyzing the first and second electrical signals reveals the operating status of the first and / or second filaments. By comparing the electrical signals generated by the two filaments, the operating status of the filaments can be determined, such as whether their electron emission capability has deteriorated.

[0154] In some embodiments, the X-ray tube can have various structural configurations. For example, the X-ray tube may include a shell and an anode, wherein the accelerating electrode is the shell and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the anode. Alternatively, the X-ray tube may include a shell, an anode, and a grid, wherein the accelerating electrode is the anode and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the grid. Alternatively, the X-ray tube may include a shell, an anode, and a grid, wherein the accelerating electrode is the shell and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the grid. Alternatively, the X-ray tube may include an anode and an ion collecting electrode, wherein the accelerating electrode is the anode and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the ion collecting electrode.

[0155] In some embodiments, both the first filament and the second filament are located at the cathode. The analysis of the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal to obtain the usage status of the first filament and / or the second filament includes:

[0156] The first electrical signal is filtered to obtain the first state value;

[0157] The second electrical signal is processed in the same way as the first electrical signal to obtain a second state value. The difference between the second state value and the first state value is calculated. If the absolute value of the difference after the difference is greater than a first threshold, it is determined that the filament corresponding to the smaller of the second state value and the first state value has experienced a decline in electron emission capability.

[0158] In the embodiments of this application, for X-ray tubes with multi-filament structures, data measured by a system monitoring the vacuum state of the X-ray tube can be used as comparative data between filaments. By directly comparing each filament, the degradation of electron emission capability of the filaments can be obtained.

[0159] In some embodiments, for cases with three or more filaments, the data of one filament can be used as a standard quantity, and the usage of that filament and the remaining filaments can be determined by comparing the data.

[0160] In some embodiments, the first filament is an exhaust filament, and the second filament is located at the cathode. The analysis of the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal to obtain the usage status of the first filament and / or the second filament includes:

[0161] The first electrical signal is filtered to obtain the first state value;

[0162] The second electrical signal is processed in the same way as the first electrical signal to obtain a second state value. The difference between the second state value and the first state value is calculated. If the absolute value of the difference after the difference is greater than a second threshold, it is determined that the electron emission capability of the second filament has deteriorated.

[0163] In the embodiments of this application, for an X-ray tube with an exhaust filament, the exhaust filament can be used as a standard filament, its data can be used as a standard quantity, and the usage of other filaments can be determined by comparing the data. An X-ray tube is also provided, comprising the system for monitoring the vacuum state of the X-ray tube described in the above embodiments.

[0164] In addition to the components of a traditional X-ray tube, this X-ray tube integrates a system for monitoring the vacuum state of the tube, giving it the ability to self-monitor its vacuum status. This integrated design not only simplifies the structure of the X-ray equipment but also improves the safety and reliability of the X-ray tube.

[0165] In this X-ray tube, the components of the system that monitors the vacuum state of the X-ray tube are shared with corresponding parts of the X-ray tube. For example, the emitter is shared with the cathode of the X-ray tube, the accelerating electrode can be the tube shell or the anode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode can be the anode, the grid, or the ion collecting electrode. This shared design reduces additional components and lowers manufacturing costs.

[0166] The working process of the X-ray tube includes: establishing a potential gradient relationship between the emitting electrode, accelerating electrode, and vacuum monitoring electrode through a first power source; applying alternating current to the cathode through a second power source to cause the filament to emit electrons; the electrons move under the action of the electric field, and some electrons collide with residual gas molecules to generate ions; these ions are collected by the vacuum monitoring electrode to form an electrical signal; an electrical signal acquisition device acquires these electrical signals; and a processing device analyzes the electrical signals to obtain the vacuum state of the X-ray tube.

[0167] In this way, the X-ray tube can monitor its own vacuum status in real time, detect problems such as a decrease in vacuum level in a timely manner, and prevent the X-ray tube from being damaged due to insufficient vacuum.

[0168] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0169] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for monitoring the filament condition of an X-ray tube, characterized in that, The X-ray tube includes a system for monitoring the vacuum state, which includes an emitter, an accelerator, and a vacuum monitoring electrode. The X-ray tube further includes multiple independently controllable filaments, wherein the multiple independently controllable filaments include at least a first filament and a second filament, and the filament status monitoring method includes: Establish a potential gradient relationship between the emitter, the accelerating electrode and the vacuum monitoring electrode, such that the accelerating electrode potential > the emitter potential > the vacuum monitoring electrode potential; Alternating current is applied to the first filament and the second filament respectively, causing the first filament and the second filament to emit electrons individually; When the first filament emits electrons alone, the electrical signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode is collected to obtain the first electrical signal; When the second filament emits electrons independently, the electrical signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode is collected to obtain the second electrical signal; The first electrical signal and the second electrical signal are analyzed to obtain the usage status of the first filament and / or the second filament.

2. The filament condition monitoring method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The X-ray tube includes a tube shell and an anode, the accelerating electrode is the tube shell, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the anode; Alternatively, the X-ray tube includes the tube shell, the anode, and the gate, with the accelerating electrode being the anode and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the gate; Alternatively, the X-ray tube includes the tube housing, the anode, the gate, the accelerating electrode being the tube housing, and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the gate; Alternatively, the X-ray tube may include the anode and the ion collecting electrode, with the accelerating electrode being the anode and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the ion collecting electrode.

3. The filament condition monitoring method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Both the first filament and the second filament are located at the cathode. The analysis of the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal to obtain the usage status of the first filament and / or the second filament includes: The first electrical signal is filtered to obtain the first state value; The second electrical signal is processed in the same way as the first electrical signal to obtain a second state value. The difference between the second state value and the first state value is calculated. If the absolute value of the difference after the difference is greater than a first threshold, it is determined that the filament corresponding to the smaller of the second state value and the first state value has experienced a decline in electron emission capability. Alternatively, the first filament is an exhaust filament, and the second filament is located at the cathode. The analysis of the first and second electrical signals to obtain the usage status of the first and / or second filaments includes: The first electrical signal is filtered to obtain the first state value; The second electrical signal is processed in the same way as the first electrical signal to obtain the second state value. The difference between the second state value and the first state value is calculated. If the absolute value of the difference after the difference is greater than the second threshold, it is determined that the electron emission capability of the second filament has deteriorated.

4. A method for monitoring the vacuum state of an X-ray tube, characterized in that, The X-ray tube includes a system for monitoring the vacuum state, the system for monitoring the vacuum state including an emitter, an accelerating electrode, and a vacuum monitoring electrode; the method includes: Establish a potential gradient relationship between the emitter, the accelerating electrode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode, such that the accelerating electrode potential > the emitter potential > the vacuum monitoring electrode potential; An alternating current is applied to the cathode, causing the cathode filament to emit electrons; wherein the emitting electrode is the cathode of the X-ray tube, and the cathode has a filament; Collect the electrical signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode; The vacuum state of the X-ray tube is obtained by analyzing the electrical signal. The X-ray tube includes a tube shell and an anode, the accelerating electrode is the tube shell, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the anode; Alternatively, the X-ray tube includes the tube shell, the anode, and the gate, with the accelerating electrode being the anode and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the gate; Alternatively, the X-ray tube includes the tube housing, the anode, the gate, the accelerating electrode being the tube housing, and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the gate; Alternatively, the X-ray tube may include the anode and the ion collecting electrode, with the accelerating electrode being the anode and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the ion collecting electrode.

5. The method as described in claim 4, characterized in that, Applying alternating current to the cathode to cause the cathode filament to emit electrons includes: Based on the usage time of the X-ray tube and the correspondence between the filament current and the usage time of the X-ray tube, the filament current value for applying alternating current to the cathode is determined.

6. The method as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The X-ray tube includes a tube shell and an anode, the accelerating electrode is the tube shell, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the anode; Establishing the potential gradient relationship between the emitter, the accelerating electrode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode, such that the accelerating electrode potential > the emitter potential > the vacuum monitoring electrode potential, includes: The anode is grounded, the cathode is connected to a positive potential, and the tube shell is connected to a positive potential. Alternatively, the casing can be grounded, the cathode can be connected to a negative potential, and the anode can be connected to a negative potential. Make the tube shell potential > cathode potential > anode potential.

7. A method for monitoring the vacuum state of an X-ray tube, characterized in that, The X-ray tube includes a system for monitoring the vacuum state, the system including an emitter, an accelerating electrode, and a vacuum monitoring electrode; the X-ray tube includes an exhaust filament, and the method includes: Establish a potential gradient relationship between the emitter, the accelerating electrode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode, such that the accelerating electrode potential > the emitter potential > the vacuum monitoring electrode potential; Applying alternating current to the exhaust filament causes it to emit electrons; Collect the electrical signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode; The vacuum state of the X-ray tube is obtained by analyzing the electrical signal.

8. A system for monitoring the vacuum state of an X-ray tube, characterized in that, The system for monitoring the vacuum state includes: The emitter, including the filament, is used to emit electrons; An accelerating electrode is used to accelerate the electrons emitted by the emitter along a preset path. A vacuum monitoring electrode is used to receive electrical signals generated by ions, wherein the ions are generated by the collision and ionization of some of the electrons emitted by the emitter with gas molecules; A first power supply is connected to at least two of the emitter, the accelerating electrode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode, for establishing a potential gradient relationship between the emitter, the accelerating electrode, and the vacuum monitoring electrode, such that the accelerating electrode potential > the emitter potential > the vacuum monitoring electrode potential. A second power source, connected to the filament, is used to apply alternating current to the filament, causing the filament to emit electrons; An electrical signal acquisition device is connected to the vacuum monitoring electrode and is used to acquire the electrical signal of the vacuum monitoring electrode; A processing device, connected to the electrical signal acquisition device, is used to analyze the electrical signal to obtain the vacuum state of the X-ray tube; in, The X-ray tube includes a tube shell and an anode, the accelerating electrode is the tube shell, and the vacuum monitoring electrode is the anode; Alternatively, the X-ray tube includes the tube shell, the anode, and the gate, with the accelerating electrode being the anode and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the gate; Alternatively, the X-ray tube includes the tube housing, the anode, the gate, the accelerating electrode being the tube housing, and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the gate; Alternatively, the X-ray tube may include the anode and the ion collecting electrode, with the accelerating electrode being the anode and the vacuum monitoring electrode being the ion collecting electrode.

9. The system for monitoring the vacuum state of an X-ray tube as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The emitting electrode is the cathode of the X-ray tube; Alternatively, the X-ray tube may include an exhaust filament, wherein the filament is an exhaust filament.

10. An X-ray tube, characterized in that, The X-ray tube includes the system for monitoring the vacuum state of the X-ray tube as described in claim 9.

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