Dual X-ray Window with Self-Cleaning Heat Source
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray sources with liquid-jet anodes face the challenge of debris deposition on the output window, which reduces X-ray transparency and requires disassembly or vacuum release for cleaning, especially when the anode is positioned close to the window to maximize X-ray radiation use.
Innovation Solution
A dual window configuration with a primary X-ray-transparent window and a secondary heat-resistant window that can be cleaned by evaporation without disrupting the vacuum, using a heat source to evaporate contaminants from the secondary window while maintaining the primary window's integrity and preventing chemical instability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the anode is positioned close to the output window to maximize X-ray radiation use, then X-ray radiation efficiency is improved, but debris deposition rate on the window increases
Solution Approach 1:
The window system is divided into two separate window elements: a first window element close to the anode that collects debris, and a second window element that remains clean. This segmentation allows the first window to serve as a sacrificial debris collector while the second window maintains optical quality for X-ray transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The first window element acts as an intermediary between the anode and the second window element. It intercepts debris from the anode before the debris can reach the second window, protecting the optical path while allowing the anode to remain close to the window assembly for efficient radiation use.
2Reliability
If the window is cleaned by disassembly or vacuum release, then debris is removed from the window, but continuous operation is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The first window element automatically performs the cleaning function by collecting debris in a gravity-driven manner. The heated surface causes debris to condense and slide down into a collection chamber, eliminating the need for manual cleaning or system disassembly and allowing continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning mechanism utilizes phase transition of debris material. Heating the first window element causes deposited debris to undergo phase change (sublimation or evaporation), and the vapor then condenses on cooler surfaces, with the condensed material sliding down into the collection chamber due to gravity.
3Device complexity
If a single window element is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the window cannot be cleaned without disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The window assembly is segmented into two separate window elements with distinct functions. The first window element is designed as a removable component that can be easily detached for cleaning or replacement, while the second window element remains in place. This segmentation provides cleaning accessibility without requiring complete disassembly of the vacuum chamber.
Solution Approach 2:
The first window element serves multiple functions: it acts as an optical window for X-ray transmission, a debris collection surface, and a removable cleanable component. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate cleaning mechanisms while maintaining system simplicity.
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 dual window configuration allows for continuous operation and extended maintenance intervals by preventing debris from reaching the primary window, maintaining vacuum conditions, and reducing mechanical stress on the secondary window, thus enhancing X-ray source performance and longevity.
Implementation Method 1
a heat source adapted to heat at least a portion of the secondary window element for thereby evaporating any contaminant having deposited thereon
Data Source
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AI summary
A self-cleaning X-ray window arrangement includes a primary X-ray- transparent window element, separating an ambient pressure region from an intermediate region, and a secondary X-ray-transparent window element, separating the intermediate region from a reduced pressure region. A contaminant is expected to deposit on a side of the secondary element facing the reduced pressure region. A heat source is adapted to heat a portion of the secondary window element for thereby evaporating contaminant. The secondary element shields the primary element from the reduced pressure region, in which contaminant is present, whereas the pressure-tight primary window element carries most of the differential pressure between the ambient pressure region and the reduced pressure region. Several features of the invention help to decrease the rate at which contaminant enters the intermediate region. By maintaining the pressure in the intermediate region close to the reduced pressure, the mechanical stress on the secondary window element can be limited as well as the exposure to harmful gases.