Cathode Assembly with Dual Filaments for X-ray Tube Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional X-ray apparatuses have complex structures and control circuits, making it difficult to adjust the number of focal spots, sizes of focal spots, and tube current, which are essential for various medical imaging and treatment applications.

Innovation Solution

A cathode emission device with a cathode assembly comprising a first filament, a second filament, and a grid electrode, switchable between two connection configurations to achieve different radiation modes, allowing for the formation of multiple focal spots and adjustable tube current through the application of high-voltage and grid voltage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If conventional X-ray apparatus structures are used, then the basic X-ray function is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated and control circuits become complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure complexityVSAvoidadjustability of focal spots and tube current
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The cathode assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it can form multiple focal spots (first and second focal spots) and control tube current through a single integrated structure with first and second filaments, eliminating the need for separate control systems for each function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple control functions into a single cathode assembly structure. The first filament and second filament are integrated within the same cathode assembly, allowing simultaneous or independent control of multiple focal spots and tube current through unified structural design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple focal spots and adjustable tube current are implemented in conventional systems, then functional versatility is improved, but the control circuits become more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol over focal spots and tube currentVSAvoidcontrol circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cathode assembly structure itself provides the control mechanism for multiple focal spots and tube current adjustment. By designing the filaments and their connections within the cathode assembly, the system achieves functionality through its inherent structure rather than requiring external complex control circuits

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

This solution simplifies the structure of the X-ray apparatus, enabling flexible control over focal spots and tube current, reducing manufacturing costs and improving operational convenience compared to conventional systems.

Implementation Method 1

a first filament; a second filament... switchable between a first connection configuration and a second connection configuration... two focal spots are formed by the first filament and the second filament, respectively

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermionic emission: Thermionic Emission

Implementation Method 2

a grid electrode, the grid electrode being operably connected to the first filament and surrounding the first filament and the second filament... a size of the focal spot is determined based on a voltage applied on the grid electrode... an emission current of the cathode emission device is determined based on a voltage applied on the grid electrode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectron beam modulation: Electron Beam

Data Source

PatentUS20220384136A1Cathode emission device and x-ray tube using same
Publication Date: 2022.12.01 WUHAN UNITED IMAGING HEALTHCARE CO LTD
  • US20220384136A1 patent drawing
  • US20220384136A1 patent drawing
  • US20220384136A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a cathode emission device. The cathode emission device may comprise a cathode assembly, including: a first filament, a second filament, and a grid electrode. The grid electrode may be operably connected to the first filament and surrounding the first filament and the second filament. The cathode assembly may be configured to be operably connected to a high-voltage generator and switchable between a first connection configuration and a second connection configuration.