Multi-Source X-Ray Irradiation Layout for Uniform Dose Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irradiation technologies using X-ray sources suffer from inferior dose uniformity and heat dissipation issues, limiting their effectiveness in treating objects and bulk materials compared to isotopic sources like Caesium-137 and Cobalt-60.
Innovation Solution
An irradiation apparatus with a shielded housing and a plurality of ionizing radiation source points arranged in an array around the irradiation volume, allowing for more uniform dose distribution and improved heat dissipation, featuring a ring or rectilinear configuration of X-ray tubes that can be selectively activated and controlled for optimal radiation delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single X-ray source is used for irradiation, then the device complexity is reduced, but the dose uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The single X-ray source is segmented into multiple radiation source points arranged in an array. Each source point contributes to irradiating different regions of the sample, and their combined effect achieves uniform dose distribution throughout the irradiation volume while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple radiation source points are merged into a coordinated array system where all sources operate simultaneously or sequentially to deliver radiation from multiple directions. This merging of multiple sources creates a superposition effect that achieves uniform dose distribution that would be impossible with a single source.
2Device complexity
If a single X-ray source is used, then heat dissipation is simplified, but the maximum energy level and duration are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The heat generation problem is segmented by distributing the total power load across multiple radiation source points. Each source point operates at a lower power level, generating less heat individually, while the array collectively delivers the required total energy. This segmentation of thermal load makes heat dissipation more manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat dissipation problem is solved by transitioning from a single-point heat source to a distributed array of heat sources. This spatial distribution across multiple dimensions allows heat to be dissipated more effectively throughout the apparatus structure, preventing localized overheating while maintaining high total energy output.
3Manufacturing precision
If isotopic sources are used, then dose uniformity is improved, but radiological security risk and facility requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces long-lived radioactive isotopic sources with X-ray tube sources that can be turned on and off as needed. The X-ray tubes generate radiation only when energized, eliminating the continuous radiological hazard of isotopic sources. The tubes are relatively short-lived components that can be replaced rather than managed as long-term radiological waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental parameter of radiation generation from spontaneous radioactive decay (isotopic) to controlled electrical excitation (X-ray tubes). This parameter change allows radiation to be produced only when needed, providing dose uniformity through controlled operation while eliminating the persistent security risks associated with stored radioactive materials.
4Productivity
If X-ray sources operate at high power, then productivity is improved, but heat dissipation difficulty worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The high power irradiation requirement is segmented across multiple radiation source points in the array. Each source point operates at a moderate power level that generates manageable heat, while the collective output of all sources achieves the high total power needed for productive irradiation. This segmentation allows high productivity without overwhelming heat dissipation challenges at any single location.
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 provides a more uniform dose of radiation and allows for higher energy levels to be maintained for longer periods, enhancing the treatment efficacy while reducing heat dissipation challenges, thus improving the irradiation process for diverse materials and packaging types.
Implementation Method 1
In an X-ray source the anode material re-emits the energy received from the electrons as characteristic X-ray emission lines lying on top of Bremsstrahlung radiation spectrum extending from very low energy X-ray photons up to the voltage potential applied between anode and cathode
Implementation Method 2
electrons emitted from a tungsten filament (the cathode) are accelerated onto a metal sample (the anode)
Data Source
AI summary
An irradiation apparatus comprises a plurality of ionising radiation source points (122) configured to output ionising radiation. The plurality of ionising radiation source points (122) is an array distributed around an irradiation volume (140). The array of ionising radiation source points (122) is configured to direct ionising radiation inwardly to the irradiation volume (140). A transport apparatus (130) is configured to support at least one sample (138) to be irradiated within the irradiation volume (140). The transport apparatus (130) is configured to rotate about a first rotational axis (131) lying within the irradiation volume (140).