X-ray Pulse Chain Control via Electron Beam Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear accelerator systems face challenges in closed-loop control of X-ray pulse chains with multiple amplitude pulses, as they require additional information to account for transient responses and drift properties within radio-frequency pulse durations, limiting material discrimination capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A method for closed-loop control of an X-ray pulse chain involving a first and second multiple amplitude X-ray pulse, where the electron beam is modulated within specific radio-frequency pulse durations based on a specified pulse profile, with time-resolved measurements and adjustments via a closed-loop control unit to optimize pulse parameters, enabling precise control of the X-ray pulse chain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If closed-loop control is implemented for X-ray pulse chains with multiple amplitude pulses, then material discrimination capability is improved, but the system requires additional information to account for transient responses and drift properties within radio-frequency pulse durations, increasing control complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control process by introducing dedicated sensor arrangements for each amplitude pulse within the X-ray pulse chain. Each sensor measures specific parameters (energy, dose, timing) for its corresponding pulse, enabling independent characterization and control of transient responses and drift properties for each pulse segment, thereby managing control complexity through modular measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control by using the measured actual values from sensor arrangements to adjust control parameters for subsequent pulses. The control unit compares measured values with reference values and modifies pulse parameters accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that accounts for transient responses and drift properties while maintaining material discrimination capability
2Manufacturing precision
If time-resolved measurements are performed for each multiple amplitude X-ray pulse, then pulse parameter control precision is improved, but measurement and control time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by performing measurements and control adjustments in a cyclic manner for each pulse in the X-ray pulse chain. Each pulse undergoes measurement followed by control parameter adjustment for the next pulse, creating a rhythmic measurement-control cycle that maintains precision while managing time through structured periodic operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by measuring parameters from preceding pulses and using this information to pre-adjust control parameters before generating subsequent pulses. This advance preparation of control parameters based on previous measurements reduces real-time decision delays while maintaining precise pulse parameter control
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 improves material discrimination by allowing controlled generation of X-ray pulse chains, enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of material identification in applications like security and customs checks.
Implementation Method 1
electrons are accelerated, in particular via a radio-frequency source in a linear accelerator cavity to energy values above 1 MeV
Implementation Method 2
X-ray pulses with different energy values are advantageously used to enable material discrimination
Implementation Method 3
measuring time-resolved actual values of the first multiple amplitude X-ray pulse via a measuring unit
Data Source
AI summary
A method is for closed-loop control of an X-ray pulse chain generated via a linear accelerator system. In an embodiment, the method includes modulating a first electron beam within a first radio-frequency pulse duration, wherein the first multiple amplitude X-ray pulse is produced on modulating the first electron beam; measuring time-resolved actual values of the first multiple amplitude X-ray pulse; adjusting at least one pulse parameter as a function of a comparison of the specified multiple amplitude X-ray pulse profile and the measured time-resolved actual values; and modulating a second electron beam within a second radio-frequency pulse duration as a function of the at least one adjusted pulse parameter for production of the second multiple amplitude X-ray pulse, so the X-ray pulse chain is controlled.