X-Ray Power Supply Self-Diagnostic Mode
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
X-ray devices face prolonged downtime and unnecessary replacement costs due to difficulties in distinguishing between internal power supply damage and external faults, such as faulty filaments or high-voltage issues, during normal operation.
Innovation Solution
A power supply with a control device that switches between two operating modes to separate high-voltage connections from internal contacts, allowing for the differentiation between internal and external errors by measuring voltage and current, and activating a notification system based on detected anomalies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the X-ray tube is replaced first when problems arise in the heating circuit or high voltage, then the X-ray tube replacement is simple and quick, but damage to the power supply is typically only detected after replacement, resulting in extended downtime and unnecessary costs
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary diagnostic actions by automatically switching to a second operating mode that disconnects the X-ray tube and activates an artificial load. This preliminary test determines whether the fault lies in the power supply or external components before any replacement is made, preventing unnecessary X-ray tube replacements and reducing downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply performs self-diagnosis by automatically switching between operating modes and monitoring its own internal contacts and circuits. The control device autonomously determines the fault location without requiring external diagnostic equipment or technician intervention, enabling the system to service itself.
2Measurement precision
If external devices are connected to enable high-voltage measurements without an X-ray tube, then the source of fault can be determined, but the necessary service equipment is not always available
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as an operational power source and as a diagnostic tool. The switching device enables the same power supply to function in two modes: normal operation with the X-ray tube and diagnostic mode with an artificial load, eliminating the need for separate external diagnostic equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
An artificial load is introduced as an intermediary component that replaces the X-ray tube during diagnostic operations. This artificial load allows the power supply to be tested in isolation without requiring the actual X-ray tube or external measurement devices, simplifying the diagnostic process.
3Reliability
If the power supply or power supply components are replaced to test the functionality of the X-ray tube, then the X-ray tube functionality can be tested, but this procedure is very complex and requires large and heavy additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostic system segments the fault detection process into distinct operational modes. The switching device separates the diagnostic function from the operational function, allowing the power supply to be tested independently of the X-ray tube through controlled disconnection and reconnection of internal contacts.
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 faster maintenance and reduced costs by accurately identifying internal power supply issues, reducing the need for unnecessary replacements and minimizing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
voltage source (35) of the power supply (3) is configured to provide an accelerating voltage or a heating voltage between a first internal contact (18, 19, 20, 21) and a second internal contact (18, 19, 20, 21) in order to energize the X-ray tube (2)
Implementation Method 2
control device (16) which is configured to detect a voltage between the first and the second internal contact (18, 19, 20, 21) and/or a current across the first and/or the second internal contact (18, 19, 20, 21) in a second operating mode
Implementation Method 3
switching device (17) of the power supply (3) is configured to connect the first internal contact (18) to the first high-voltage terminal (11) in the first operating mode and to disconnect it from the first in the second operating mode
Data Source
AI summary
Power supply for an X-ray tube (2), wherein a voltage source (35) of the power supply (3) is configured to provide an accelerating voltage or a heating voltage between a first internal contact (18) and a second internal contact (19) to energize the X-ray tube (3) in a first operating mode, wherein the power supply (3) comprises a control device (16) configured to detect a voltage between the first and the second internal contact (18, 19) and/or a current across the first and/or second internal contact (18, 19) in a second operating mode and, depending on the detected voltage and/or current, to control a warning device (34) for providing a warning and/or to transmit a warning signal, wherein a switching device (17) of the power supply (3) is configured toto connect the first internal contact (18) to a first high-voltage terminal (11) in the first operating mode and to disconnect it in the second operating mode, and/or is configured to connect the second internal contact (31) to a second high-voltage terminal (12) in the first operating mode and to disconnect it in the second operating mode, and/or is configured to connect the first and second internal contacts (18, 19) in the second operating mode and to disconnect them in the first operating mode.