Neutron Generator Gas Pressure Determination via Backstreaming Electron Radiation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing neutron radiation generators face challenges in continuously determining internal pressure within their chambers, which affects the generation and optimization of neutron radiation output.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a radiation detector to sense backstreaming electrons and correlate the radiation signal with operation signals from the acceleration member and extractor electrode to determine the gas pressure in the chamber, using calibration values to calculate and maintain optimal gas pressure for desired neutron radiation output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a radiation detector is used to detect backstreaming electrons, then gas pressure can be determined continuously, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses backstreaming electrons as an intermediary to indirectly measure gas pressure. Instead of placing a physical pressure sensor inside the high-voltage chamber, the system detects the radiation signal emitted by electrons that stream back from the acceleration region to the ion source. This intermediary approach allows pressure measurement without direct physical contact in the harsh environment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces a traditional mechanical pressure sensing system with a radiation detection system. By detecting the characteristic radiation signal from backstreaming electrons, the system substitutes mechanical measurement with electromagnetic radiation detection, enabling non-contact pressure determination in the high-voltage neutron generator environment
2Productivity
If gas pressure is optimized for neutron radiation output, then productivity improves, but measurement and control difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the radiation detector continuously monitors the backstreaming electron signal, which correlates with gas pressure. This feedback loop allows the system to automatically adjust and optimize gas pressure for maximum neutron radiation output, transforming a difficult measurement problem into a controllable feedback process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in the radiation signal parameters (intensity, energy spectrum) from backstreaming electrons as a function of gas pressure. By monitoring these parameter changes, the system can determine optimal pressure conditions for neutron production without requiring direct pressure measurement, thus improving productivity while managing measurement difficulty
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
Enables continuous optimization of gas pressure within the neutron radiation generator, improving the stability and efficiency of neutron radiation production by correlating detected radiation levels with pressure values, thus enhancing the performance and output of the generator.
Implementation Method 1
a radiation detector to detect a radiation generated by backstreaming electrons that are stopped in the ion source or in the acceleration member
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatuses to determine an operation gas pressure in a neutron radiation generator are described. In certain aspects, a method to determine the operation gas pressure includes receiving an operation radiation signal from a radiation generated by electrons backstreaming in a radiation generator, and determining from the operation radiation signal an operation gas pressure in a chamber of the radiation generator. An operation radiation signal may be received from a radiation detector associated with a neutron radiation generator. A radiation detector may detect radiation produced by particles (e.g., electrons) striking a portion (e.g., a cathode) of the neutron radiation generator.