Conductive X-Ray Tube Housing for Closer Multi-Tube Spacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray imaging systems require complex mechanics to move multiple X-ray tubes to cover larger examination areas, and maintaining consistent focal spot distances is technically demanding due to high-voltage electrodes and insulation requirements, leading to complex structures and difficulties in replacing defective components.
Innovation Solution
A multi-tube X-ray emitter housing with a conductive housing section and parallel high-voltage contacts, where the conductive section allows for a linear potential curve and reduced insulation distances, enabling closer arrangement of high-voltage components and simplified replacement of X-ray tubes, and a control unit to manage high voltage based on conductivity measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple X-ray tubes are used to cover larger examination areas, then the imaging area is improved, but the mechanical complexity increases due to the need for moving mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is divided into multiple electrically conductive sections (first, second, third, fourth conductive sections) that can be independently configured and connected to different high-voltage contacts, allowing multiple X-ray tubes to be arranged within a single housing without requiring complex moving mechanisms to cover large areas
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple high-voltage contacts are combined into a single housing structure with multiple conductive sections, eliminating the need for separate housings or moving mechanisms. The conductive sections are electrically connected to form a unified high-voltage system that can simultaneously support multiple X-ray tubes
2Reliability
If high-voltage insulation is maintained between multiple X-ray tubes, then electrical safety is improved, but the distance between focal spots increases and arrangement becomes less even
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple conductive sections are electrically connected to maintain the same high-voltage potential across different sections, allowing X-ray tubes to be positioned closer together with more even spacing while maintaining electrical safety through the equipotential condition rather than relying solely on physical insulation distances
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive sections act as intermediaries between high-voltage contacts and X-ray tubes, providing a controlled electrical path that enables closer spacing of tubes while maintaining insulation safety through the conductive material's properties and controlled connections
3Reliability
If conventional insulating components are used for high-voltage isolation, then electrical insulation is improved, but the housing structure becomes more complex and larger
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical conductivity parameter of the housing sections is changed from insulating to conductive, fundamentally altering the approach to high-voltage isolation. Instead of using insulating materials to prevent current flow, conductive materials are used with controlled electrical connections to achieve the same safety goal through a different physical mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The housing combines conductive sections with cooling channels and electrical connections to create a composite structure that simultaneously provides electrical safety, thermal management, and mechanical support, eliminating the need for separate insulating components
4Reliability
If all surfaces of the evacuated housing are at ground potential, then safety is improved, but the distance between tubes and focal spots becomes variable and larger
Solution Approach 1:
Certain housing surfaces are maintained at high-voltage potential rather than ground potential, creating equipotential regions that allow X-ray tubes to be positioned closer to the housing walls with more consistent spacing, while safety is maintained through controlled electrical connections and insulation where needed
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 configuration allows for more even distribution and easier replacement of X-ray tubes, reduces mechanical complexity, and maintains consistent focal spot distances, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of X-ray imaging systems.
Implementation Method 1
a first of the at least one side surface has a first electrically conductive housing section with a temperature-dependent electrical conductivity
Implementation Method 2
first electrically conductive housing section with a temperature-dependent electrical conductivity
Implementation Method 3
a control unit which has an interface for receiving a measured value representing the electrical conductivity of the first electrically conductive housing section and is configured for comparing the measured value with a threshold value
Implementation Method 4
a switching device for switching off the high voltage depending on the comparison result
Implementation Method 5
electrically insulating cooling medium is located between the first electrically conductive housing section and one of the high-voltage contacts
Implementation Method 6
a cooling device with an electrically insulating cooling medium
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a multi-tube X-ray radiator housing, a multi-tube X-ray source, an X-ray device and a computed tomography device.The multi-tube X-ray tube housing according to the invention comprises a housing with at least one side surface, a high-voltage supply, and a cooling device with an electrically insulating cooling medium, wherein the high-voltage supply has several high-voltage contacts connected in parallel to the individual high-voltage supply, wherein a first of the at least one side surface has a first electrically conductive housing section with a temperature-dependent electrical conductivity, characterized by a control unit which has an interface for receiving a measured value representing the electrical conductivity of the first electrically conductive housing section and is designed for comparing the measured value with a threshold value, and by a switching device for switching off the high voltage depending on the comparison result.