X-ray Optical Element with Asymmetric Curvatures for Beam Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray optical elements with side-by-side mirror arrangements face challenges in achieving symmetrical and stable X-ray beam imaging due to discrepancies between geometric and thermal focal points, leading to intensity fluctuations and non-uniform brilliance.
Innovation Solution
The use of two reflective elements with different curvatures and orientations, allowing for astigmatic configuration and spatial dissociation of meridional and sagittal focal points, enables targeted shaping of the X-ray beam cross-section and focal spot geometry, improving homogeneity and symmetry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If two reflective elements with identical curvatures are used in side-by-side arrangement, then the geometric imaging is simplified, but the thermal focal spot cannot be properly integrated leading to intensity fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by using two reflective elements with different curvatures (different focal lengths) instead of identical curvatures. The first reflective element has a first curvature and the second reflective element has a second curvature, creating an astigmatic configuration that properly integrates the rectangular thermal focal spot and eliminates intensity fluctuations at the sample location.
2Device complexity
If the thermal focal spot is not integrated into the optical imaging, then the optical path is simpler, but intensity fluctuations occur at the sample location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optical parameters by using different focal lengths for the two reflective elements. The first reflective element has a first focal length and the second reflective element has a second focal length, allowing the rectangular thermal focal spot to be properly imaged and integrated, thereby stabilizing the beam intensity at the sample location.
3Stability of the object's composition
If symmetrical beam imaging is achieved, then the beam properties are uniform, but the thermal focal spot fluctuations cannot be compensated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by introducing asymmetry in the form of different curvatures for the two reflective elements. This astigmatic configuration maintains symmetrical beam properties at the sample location while simultaneously compensating for thermal focal spot fluctuations through the different focal lengths.
4Loss of energy
If a single reflection is used instead of two reflections, then the transmission is higher, but the suppression of disturbing spectrum parts is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using gradient multilayer coatings on the reflective elements. These coatings provide wavelength-selective reflection, allowing the system to suppress disturbing spectrum parts (such as characteristic radiation from the anode) while maintaining high transmission of the desired X-ray beam through optimized local reflection properties.
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 the stability and symmetry of the X-ray beam cross-section, compensates for thermal focal spot fluctuations, and achieves optimal intensity and uniformity at the sample location by integrating the thermal focal spot into the optical imaging.
Implementation Method 1
The reflective elements are provided with a gradient multilayer system at their surfaces, in which system the different thicknesses of individual layers are derived from the respectively locally different angles of incidence and the respective wavelength of the X-ray radiator
Implementation Method 2
Each elementary mirror of the side-by-side arrangement or the KS arrangement has a cylindrically symmetrical surface contour, that is to say that said mirrors are embodied as a plane parabola (collimating or parallel beam optic) or plane ellipse (focussing optic)
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray optical element for and influencing of X-ray beam characteristics in two dimensions includes two reflective, curved elements arranged side-by-side to receive X-ray radiation from an X-ray beam source so that the radiation is directed onto both reflective elements and then reflected from one element onto the other element, wherein the two reflective elements are curved at different angles and have different focal lengths.