Multi-Beam X-Ray System with Segmented Multilayer Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current x-ray analytical instruments face limitations in independently optimizing probe beam parameters like divergence, bandwidth, and intensity, leading to inconvenient and costly management due to the need for multiple optical systems and x-ray sources to achieve desired beam characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A multi-beam x-ray system with 2-dimensional multilayer optics of different performance characteristics, allowing for precise positioning of optics to achieve optimized take-off angles, source-optic distances, and Bragg angles, enabling delivery of beams with specific wavelengths and spatial definitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical systems and x-ray sources are used to deliver beams with different characteristics, then beam performance requirements for different applications are met, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single x-ray source with multiple targets that can generate different characteristic wavelengths, combined with a multi-section focusing optic where each section is optimized for a specific wavelength. This universal system can deliver beams with different characteristics (wavelength, focus, divergence) by selecting appropriate target-section combinations, eliminating the need for multiple separate optical systems while maintaining application-specific performance
Solution Approach 2:
The focusing optic is divided into multiple sections, with each section designed and positioned to focus a specific wavelength from a particular target onto the sample. This segmentation allows the single optical system to handle multiple wavelengths and beam configurations independently, providing the versatility of multiple systems without the complexity of having actually multiple complete systems
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple multilayer coating structures are stacked for different wavelengths, then convenience and low cost are achieved, but reflectivity decreases and background noise increases due to Bragg reflections
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single multilayer coating that attempts to handle all wavelengths, the patent applies different multilayer coatings to different sections of the focusing optic, with each coating optimized for its specific wavelength range. This local optimization ensures high reflectivity for the intended wavelength at each section while minimizing unwanted Bragg reflections from other energy ranges, thus maintaining low background noise
3Device complexity
If a single x-ray source with multiple targets and multi-section focusing optic is used, then beam characteristics can be changed without adding multiple complete optical systems, but the system requires precise mechanical positioning and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-aligns each section of the focusing optic during manufacturing so that when the optic rotates to a specific position, the correct section is automatically oriented at the proper take-off angle relative to the x-ray source. This preliminary alignment work done during fabrication eliminates the need for complex real-time adjustment mechanisms and ensures precise positioning without requiring sophisticated control systems
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 approach enhances instrument capabilities, improves performance, and reduces costs by allowing convenient management of multiple beam configurations with improved spectral and spatial definitions, while maintaining high intensity and narrow energy bandwidth.
Implementation Method 1
2-dimensional multilayer optics of different performance characteristics, allowing for precise positioning of optics to achieve optimized take-off angles, source-optic distances, and Bragg angles
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A multi-beam x-ray system includes an x-ray source (24) which emits x-rays and a housing with a first part and a second part. The second part is moveable relative to the first part and includes a plurality of optics (20, 22, 120, 122) of different performance characteristics. Each optic, through the movement of the second part relative to the first part, is positioned to a working position so that the optic receives the x-rays from the x-ray source and directs the x-rays with the desired performance attributes to a desired location (30).