X-Ray Source Beam Alignment With Sensor Feedback Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The alignment of electron beams and targets in X-ray sources deteriorates over time due to maintenance, wear, and replacement of mechanical parts, leading to reduced X-ray radiation quality and extended downtime for system adjustments.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray source equipped with adjustment means, beam orientation sensors, and a controller to automatically align the electron beam and target by adjusting the relative orientation between the anode and cathode, and the target's position, using feedback loops to ensure precise alignment and reduce manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual alignment and adjustment is performed during maintenance, then the system can be restored to operation, but the downtime period increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-alignment through automated feedback control. The alignment sensor detects beam position deviations, and the controller automatically adjusts the electron beam or target position without requiring manual intervention during maintenance, enabling the system to restore optimal alignment independently and reduce downtime
Solution Approach 2:
An alignment sensor continuously monitors the electron beam position relative to the target and provides feedback signals to a controller. The controller processes this feedback and automatically adjusts alignment parameters, creating a closed-loop system that maintains optimal alignment without manual intervention during maintenance operations
2Manufacturing precision
If frequent alignment checks and adjustments are performed, then X-ray radiation quality is maintained, but the time required for maintenance and adjustment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment sensor operates continuously during system operation to monitor beam position, and the automated adjustment system is ready to correct deviations immediately when detected. This continuous monitoring and immediate correction capability maintains X-ray radiation quality without requiring periodic shutdowns for manual alignment checks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment procedures with an automated electronic control system. The alignment sensor and controller automatically perform measurements and adjustments that would otherwise require manual intervention, significantly reducing the time needed for maintenance while maintaining alignment precision
3Productivity
If automated alignment systems are implemented, then alignment speed and frequency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment sensor serves multiple functions: it detects beam position deviations, provides feedback signals to the controller, and can potentially monitor multiple alignment parameters simultaneously. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering comprehensive alignment control and diagnostic capabilities in a single integrated system
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
Facilitates faster and more frequent alignment processes, reducing downtime and maintaining high X-ray radiation quality by automating the alignment of electron beams and targets, thus improving the overall efficiency and reliability of the X-ray source.
Implementation Method 1
electrons are accelerated by the field between the anode electrode and the cathode
Implementation Method 2
a beam orientation sensor arranged to generate a signal indicating an orientation of the electron beam relative to a sensor area
Data Source
AI summary
X-ray sources including an electron source, an adjustment means for adjusting an orientation of the electron beam generated by the electron source, a focusing means configured to focus the electron beam in accordance with a focusing setting, a beam orientation sensor arranged to generate a signal indicating an orientation of the electron beam relative to a target position, and a controller that is operably connected to the focusing means, the beam orientation sensor and the adjustment means. Also, X-ray sources including a target orientation sensor and a target adjustment means, wherein the controller is configured to cause the beam adjustment means and/or target adjustment means to adjust the relative orientation between the electron beam and the target.