Multi-Electron Source X-Ray Apparatus for Adaptive Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray sources with rotating targets are limited in the number of radiation qualities and focal spots they can produce, making it difficult to adjust radiation quality and dose for different body parts, resulting in low-quality X-ray images.
Innovation Solution
A multi-X-ray generating apparatus with a two-dimensionally arranged multi-electron source and target unit, where the electron sources are selectively driven to control the generation locations and radiation qualities of X-rays, allowing for various energy characteristics and high-contrast imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a rotating target type X-ray source with limited focal spots is used, then the device structure remains simple, but the adaptability in selecting radiation quality and irradiation position is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the electron source into multiple independent electron emitting elements (first, second, third, and fourth electron emitting elements) arranged in a specific pattern. Each element can be independently controlled to generate electron beams, allowing selective irradiation of different target regions. This segmentation enables multiple irradiation positions and radiation qualities without requiring a complex rotating target structure, as each electron emitting element can be independently activated to target specific regions of the target.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-focus or limited focal spot rotating target design to a multi-element electron source arrangement that provides two-dimensional spatial control over electron beam generation. By arranging electron emitting elements in a specific geometric pattern and controlling them independently, the system achieves adaptability in both position and radiation quality selection without the mechanical complexity of rotation, effectively adding a dimension of control freedom.
2Adaptability or versatility
If only about two focal spots are available, then the device complexity remains low, but the ability to adjust radiation quality and dose for different body parts is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The electron source is segmented into four distinct electron emitting elements, each capable of independent operation. This allows the system to generate electron beams at multiple positions simultaneously or sequentially, providing the flexibility to adjust radiation quality and dose for different body parts. Each electron emitting element can be controlled independently to irradiate specific regions of the target, enabling customized X-ray generation without increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces dynamic control capability by enabling independent activation and deactivation of each electron emitting element. This dynamic control allows the system to adapt radiation quality and dose settings in real-time based on the specific imaging requirements of different body parts, transforming a static limited-focus system into a dynamically adjustable multi-focus system without mechanical moving parts.
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 enables high-contrast X-ray images with low doses by increasing the flexibility in selecting radiation quality and irradiation positions, improving image quality and reducing exposure.
Implementation Method 1
a Spindt-type electron source is known, which extracts electrons by applying a high electric field to the tip of a needle with a size of several 10 nm
Implementation Method 2
the X-ray tube generates X-rays by irradiating an X-ray target made of a metal with the beam
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-X-ray generating apparatus which has a plurality of electron sources arranged two-dimensionally and targets arranged at positions opposite to the electron sources includes a multi-electron source which includes a plurality of electron sources and outputs electrons from driven electron sources by selectively driving a plurality of electron sources in accordance with supplied driving signals, and a target unit which includes a plurality of targets which generate X-rays in accordance with irradiation of electrons output from the multi-electron source and outputs X-rays with different radiation qualities in accordance with the generation locations of X-rays. The generation locations and radiation qualities of X-rays from the target unit are controlled by selectively driving the electron sources of the multi-electron source.