Angled Transmission Target for High Power Electron Beam
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-power electron beams cause excessive heat in transmission targets, leading to failures due to high power density, which limits the reliability and lifespan of the material used to convert electron beams into x-rays.
Innovation Solution
A transmission target with a surface angled relative to the electron beam, reducing power density on the surface by increasing the effective spot area, allowing for higher power electron beams to be used with similar reliability and reducing operating temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the transmission target uses a material disposed in a plane perpendicular to the incident electron beam, then the conversion of electron beam to x-rays is efficient, but the power density on the target surface becomes excessive causing heat-related failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the orientation of the target surface from perpendicular (90 degrees) to angled (less than 90 degrees) relative to the incident electron beam. This dimensional change in surface orientation increases the effective interaction area, distributing the electron beam power over a larger surface area and reducing power density, thereby preventing heat-related failures while maintaining x-ray generation efficiency
2Productivity
If the electron beam power is increased to improve x-ray output, then the power handling capability increases, but the heat dissipated by the material increases leading to higher failure risk
Solution Approach 1:
By angling the target surface relative to the electron beam, the patent increases the effective area over which the electron beam energy is distributed. This allows higher electron beam power to be used for improved x-ray output while the increased surface area dissipates the generated heat more effectively, reducing the harmful thermal effects
3Area of stationary object
If the target material surface is perpendicular to the electron beam, then the interaction area is maximized for compact design, but the power density becomes too high causing material failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent angles the target surface to increase the effective interaction area for a given compact footprint. Although the projected area appears smaller, the angled surface provides a larger actual area for electron beam interaction and heat distribution, thereby reducing operating temperature and preventing material failure
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The angled surface design reduces power density, increasing the reliability and power handling capability of the transmission target, enabling the use of higher power electron beams without increasing the risk of material failure.
Implementation Method 1
The transmission target includes a material that generates bremsstrahlung in response to the high-power electron beam. Bremsstrahlung, also referred to as 'braking radiation' or 'deceleration radiation', is electromagnetic radiation produced by the deceleration of a charged particle when deflected by another charged particle.
Implementation Method 2
The incident electron beam heats the material of the transmission target. Higher heat can lead to failures. Increasing the power of the electron beam increases the heat dissipated by the material and hence, increases the chance of failure.
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments include a system, comprising: an electron source configured to generate an electron beam along an axis; and a transmission target configured to receive the electron beam, the transmission target, comprising a target material having a surface disposed to receive the electron beam; wherein a majority of the surface is disposed at an angle relative to the axis different from 89 to 91 degrees.