Dual-Energy X-Ray Source With Segmented Electron Guns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dual-energy X-ray sources for CT scanners in Explosive Detection Systems face limitations in switching frequency due to high voltage switching requirements and incur costs, size, and manufacturability issues with multiple detectors, while also struggling with scatter radiation filtering.
Innovation Solution
A dual-energy X-ray source utilizing a single DC high-voltage power supply and a single X-ray tube with two electron guns, each emitting X-rays at different angles, enabling fast switching frequencies without the need for high voltage switching and eliminating the need for multiple detectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If high voltage switching is used to achieve dual-energy X-ray emission, then dual-energy capability is obtained, but switching frequency is limited due to energy dissipation time requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The single X-ray tube is segmented into two independent electron guns, each capable of operating at different voltages. This segmentation allows simultaneous or rapid alternating operation of the two guns, enabling dual-energy X-ray emission without the need for high-voltage switching of a single gun, thereby overcoming the switching frequency limitation while maintaining dual-energy capability.
2Measurement precision
If two sets of detectors are used for dual-energy CT scanning, then energy-level discrimination is improved, but system size, cost, and manufacturability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single set of detectors that receives X-rays from both electron guns operating at different energies. By using the same detectors for both energy levels and combining the signals appropriately, the system achieves dual-energy CT scanning capability without duplicating the detector array, thereby reducing system size, cost, and complexity while maintaining energy discrimination capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If high voltage switching is implemented, then dual-energy operation is achieved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the electron generation function into two independent guns with separate voltage supplies, eliminating the need for high-voltage switching mechanisms. Each gun operates independently at its designated voltage, simplifying the overall system architecture by removing complex switching components while achieving dual-energy operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a voltage selection mechanism that allows choosing between two fixed voltage levels for the electron guns without requiring dynamic switching of the high voltage itself. This intermediary approach simplifies the voltage control system by avoiding the need for rapid high-voltage switching, thereby reducing system complexity and cost.
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 achieves high-frequency switching, reduces system size and cost, improves manufacturability and maintainability, and simplifies radiation shielding by using a single tube, effectively addressing the limitations of prior art while filtering scatter radiation efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
X-rays are emitted from an X-ray source and are directed at the object
Implementation Method 2
two electron guns included in the single tube, each gun having its own grid but both sharing a single anode
Data Source
AI summary
A dual energy X-ray source for use in an explosive detection system includes only a single power supply and only a single X-ray tube. The X-ray tube includes only two electron guns and only a single anode. Each electron gun has its own grid and cathode. The X-ray source switches between producing a higher energy X-ray and producing a lower energy X-ray at a frequency of at least 4000 Hz.