Multiconfiguration X-ray Optical System with Movable Monochromator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing x-ray beam systems face limitations in optimizing spatial definition, spectrum purity, and intensity independently due to interdependent parameters, requiring different optical systems for various applications, which are costly and labor-intensive to change and align.
Innovation Solution
An x-ray optical system that includes an x-ray source and two reflective optical elements, one forming two parallel collimated beams, with a channel-cut crystal monochromator that can be moved to condition and direct either beam to a desired location, allowing for multiple beam formats with minimal components and alignment effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different optical systems are used for different applications, then beam conditioning requirements are met, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single x-ray optical system that can perform multiple beam conditioning functions (collimation, focusing, monochromatization) by dynamically reconfiguring existing components. The movable mirror and adjustable monochromator allow one system to replace what would traditionally require multiple dedicated optical systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining adaptability for different applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic reconfiguration of optical components during operation. The mirror can be moved between different positions and the monochromator can be adjusted to change beam characteristics. This dynamic capability allows a single static system to provide multiple beam formats (collimated, focused, monochromatized) that would otherwise require multiple fixed optical systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If optical components are changed for different applications, then beam requirements are optimized, but alignment time and labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses movable and adjustable components that can be repositioned without requiring complete disassembly or realignment. The mirror can be moved along its support structure and the monochromator can be adjusted to different angles, allowing rapid switching between beam formats while maintaining proper alignment through designed mechanical constraints and reference features.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical components are pre-configured with alignment features and mechanical constraints that establish proper geometric relationships. The mirror support structure and monochromator mounting are designed so that when components are installed, their relative positions are automatically correct, eliminating the need for time-consuming alignment procedures when changing beam formats.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical systems are maintained, then application-specific optimization is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a single optical system with universal capabilities to handle multiple applications. By making the mirror movable and the monochromator adjustable, one system can provide collimated beams, focused beams, and monochromatized beams, replacing what would traditionally require three separate dedicated optical systems, thereby reducing component quantity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple beam conditioning functions into a single integrated optical system. The collimator, mirror, and monochromator work together in one system rather than as separate systems, allowing shared mechanical support, common alignment references, and reduced overall component count while maintaining all necessary beam conditioning capabilities.
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 the production of different beam formats with reduced component complexity and alignment effort, optimizing spatial and spectral characteristics, and allowing for efficient switching between beam types by repositioning the channel-cut monochromator.
Implementation Method 1
a first reflective optical element which conditions the x-rays to form two collimated beams
Implementation Method 2
a channel-cut crystal monochromator which further conditions either a first or a second beam
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a
AI summary
An x-ray optical system includes an x-ray source which emits x-rays, a first optical element which conditions the x-rays to form two beams and at least a second optical element which further conditions at least one of the two beams from the first optical element.