Multi-X-ray Generator with Segmented Extraction Windows
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray generators using multiple electron sources face challenges in forming independent X-ray beams with uniform intensity due to divergence and scattering of X-rays, making it difficult to achieve compact and efficient X-ray imaging.
Innovation Solution
A multi-X-ray generator is designed with a plurality of electron emission elements, an acceleration mechanism, and a target portion with X-ray shielding, allowing controlled divergence of X-ray beams and minimizing leakage, using advanced electron sources like Spindt type, carbon nanotube, and surface conduction types, and employing X-ray shielding plates to manage beam extraction and scattering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple electron sources are used to generate X-ray beams, then the productivity and imaging coverage are improved, but the X-ray beams diverge and scatter making it difficult to form independent uniform beams
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single X-ray beam path into multiple independent beam paths by providing separate extraction windows for each electron source. Each electron source (first and second cold cathode electron sources) has its own dedicated extraction window, allowing independent beam formation and control, thus maintaining beam uniformity while improving imaging coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point X-ray source to a multi-point array configuration by arranging multiple electron sources and their corresponding extraction windows in spatial distribution. This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous generation of multiple independent X-ray beams, improving productivity without compromising individual beam quality
2Device complexity
If X-rays are extracted through shared extraction windows, then the device complexity is reduced, but the leakage and scattering of X-rays increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the X-ray extraction path by providing separate extraction windows for each electron source. The first extraction window is dedicated to the first electron source and the second extraction window to the second electron source. This segmentation prevents X-ray leakage and scattering by ensuring each beam has its own controlled extraction path, eliminating the harmful effects of shared window interference
3Reliability
If cold cathode electron sources are used, then the device reliability and beam control are improved, but the manufacturing precision and alignment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cold cathode electron sources and their acceleration structures into a single integrated vacuum chamber assembly. By merging the first and second electron sources, their respective acceleration electrodes, and extraction windows into one coordinated system, the patent maintains the reliability advantages of cold cathode technology while reducing alignment complexity through integrated design
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 solution enables the formation of multi-X-ray beams with controlled divergence and reduced scattering, resulting in a compact X-ray imaging apparatus with excellent beam uniformity and high image quality.
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
obtains a high-energy electron beam by accelerating the thermal electrons emitted from a filament heated to a high temperature via a Wehnelt electrode, extraction electrode, acceleration electrode, and lens electrode
Implementation Method 3
the X-ray tube generates X-rays by irradiating an X-ray target portion made of a metal with the beam
Implementation Method 4
X-ray shielding plates to manage beam extraction and scattering
Data Source
AI summary
A compact apparatus can form multi-X-ray beams with good controllability. Electron beams (e) emitted from electron emission elements (15) of a multi-electron beam generating unit (12) receive the lens effect of a lens electrode (19). The resultant electron beams are accelerated to the final potential level by portions of a transmission-type target portion (13) of an anode electrode (20). The multi-X-ray beams (x) generated by the transmission-type target portion (13) pass through an X-ray shielding plate (23) and X-ray extraction portions (24) in a vacuum chamber and are extracted from the X-ray extraction windows (27) of a wall portion (25) into the atmosphere.