Coaxial Connector for X-Ray Anode Cooling and High-Voltage Connection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies fail to adequately cool the anode of x-ray tubes for downhole tools, which are subjected to high temperatures due to the conversion of electrical energy into heat, and also lack a method to simultaneously connect and cool the anode while maintaining high electrical potentials, posing risks of damage and contamination.

Innovation Solution

A coaxial connector that serves both as a coolant conduit and high-voltage connector, allowing for the introduction and removal of coolant fluids from the anode while maintaining electrical connection, thereby managing heat and preventing damage to the x-ray tube.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate cooling system and electrical connection system are used for the anode, then the anode can be adequately cooled and electrically connected, but the device complexity increases and volumetric space is consumed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveanode cooling effectivenessVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the cooling system and electrical connection system into a single integrated coaxial connector. The connector includes an inner conductor for electrical connection and an outer conductor forming an annular coolant passage, allowing both functions to be performed through one component rather than requiring separate systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The coaxial connector serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical connection to the anode, circulates coolant for thermal management, and maintains structural support. This multi-functional design reduces overall device complexity while ensuring reliable anode cooling and electrical connection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a separate cooling system and electrical connection system are used for the anode, then the anode can be adequately cooled and electrically connected, but the volumetric space for detector apparatus is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveanode cooling effectivenessVSAvoidvolumetric space for detector

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the cooling and electrical connection functions into a single coaxial connector, the patent eliminates the need for separate systems that would occupy additional space. The integrated design maximizes the volumetric space available within the downhole tool for detector apparatus while ensuring adequate anode cooling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Temperature

If coolant fluids are introduced to the anode while maintaining high electrical potentials, then heat can be removed effectively, but electrical discharge or contamination may occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveanode temperature controlVSAvoidelectrical discharge risk

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The coaxial connector acts as an intermediary structure that separates the electrical connection function (inner conductor) from the coolant circulation function (annular passage). This physical separation prevents direct contact between the high-voltage electrical field and the coolant fluid, eliminating the risk of electrical discharge or contamination while allowing effective heat removal.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables efficient and stable operation of ultra-high voltage x-ray tubes in high-temperature environments by effectively cooling the anode and preventing overheating, while allowing for simultaneous electrical connection and coolant circulation, enhancing the safety and longevity of the tool.

Implementation Method 1

a first conductor in the form of a coaxial connector that serves to conduct a coolant fluid along the anode

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Implementation Method 2

a second conductor in the form of an annular coolant passage formed along the outer surface of the first conductor, wherein the coolant fluid is introduced to and removed from the anode along the coaxial connector

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectConvection: Convection

Implementation Method 3

a coaxial electrical conductor that connects the end of a positive high-voltage generator to the anode/target of an x-ray tube

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS11158480B2Combined thermal and voltage transfer system for an x-ray source

Publication Date: 2021.10.26 VISURAY TECH

AI summary

A thermal control and electrical connection means for an electronic radiation source that provides a cooling and electrical connection to an electronic radiation source in high-temperature environment is provided, including at least a means for physically dislocating a positive high-voltage generator from the anode/target of the x-ray source; a means for conveying coolant fluids to a target anode along a coaxially formed connector; and a means for removing heat from the target anode along a coaxially-formed connector. A method of removing thermal energy from the target of an electronic radiation source is also provided, including at least introducing coolant fluids onto the target; removing coolant fluids from the target; and relocating the coolant fluids to another part of the tool for disposal within the wellbore.