Movable Collimator with Window for X-ray Fluorescence Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray detection apparatuses face challenges in downsizing to accommodate microminiaturized samples like circuit boards, making it difficult to photograph samples due to the proximity of X-ray irradiation units, detectors, and collimators, which obstruct each other's functionality.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a movable collimator with a window unit that allows for optical imaging through a transparent plate, aligned with apertures of varying sizes, and a linear drive motor to change aperture diameters and position the window unit, enabling photography without moving the sample from the irradiation position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the X-ray irradiation unit, detector and collimator are located as proximally as possible to each other to downsize the apparatus, then the apparatus size is reduced, but the ability to photograph the sample is lost due to mutual obstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to change position between X-ray irradiation and photography operations. The collimator can move along the optical axis to shift between blocking X-rays and allowing light passage for imaging, resolving the contradiction between compact positioning and photography capability
Solution Approach 2:
The collimator is divided into multiple apertures of different sizes that can be selectively positioned, and the structure is segmented to allow independent movement. This segmentation enables the collimator to perform different functions (X-ray collimation vs. light transmission) by repositioning specific aperture segments, maintaining both compact apparatus size and photography capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If a collimator with multiple apertures of different sizes is used to adapt to various sample sizes, then the adaptability is improved, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a fixed complex collimator structure, the patent employs a movable collimator with multiple apertures that can be dynamically repositioned. The collimator moves along the optical axis to bring different aperture sizes into the X-ray beam path, providing adaptability without requiring a complex multi-component system
Solution Approach 2:
The movable collimator structure serves multiple functions: it acts as an X-ray collimator when positioned to block stray radiation, and as a light transmission element when positioned to allow photography. The same physical structure provides both X-ray analysis and optical imaging capabilities, reducing overall device complexity
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 the downsizing of the X-ray detection apparatus, enabling sample photography while maintaining the ability to detect fluorescent X-rays, with improved convenience and reduced structural obstructions, facilitating easier handling and reduced pressure for enhanced analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a window unit that light used for obtaining an optical image of the sample can pass through
Implementation Method 2
irradiating a sample with X-rays; detecting fluorescent X-rays generated from the sample
Implementation Method 3
detecting fluorescent X-rays generated from the sample
Data Source
AI summary
The X-ray detection apparatus is equipped with an X-ray irradiation unit, an X-ray detector, and a movable collimator having a plurality of apertures. The collimator is provided with a window unit through which light passes, and the apertures and the window unit are aligned in one direction. The collimator moves in the direction so as to change the diameter of an aperture for narrowing X-rays from the X-ray irradiation unit to be used for irradiation of a sample and move to a position to allow an imaging unit to photograph a sample through the window unit. It becomes possible to photograph a sample even in a state where the X-ray irradiation unit, the X-ray detector and the collimator are positioned proximally to each other.