Mechanical X-Ray Source Alignment With Beam 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 itself, using feedback loops to ensure precise alignment and reduce manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual alignment and adjustment procedures are used for maintaining X-ray sources, then alignment can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and leads to extended downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-alignment through automated feedback control. The beam orientation sensor continuously monitors electron beam direction, and the controller automatically adjusts the anode-cathode relative orientation via adjustment means without requiring manual intervention, enabling the system to correct its own alignment deviations
Solution Approach 2:
A closed-loop feedback system is implemented where the beam orientation sensor provides real-time orientation data to the controller, which then modifies the relative orientation between anode and cathode through adjustment means to maintain optimal alignment, creating a continuous self-correcting mechanism
2Reliability
If frequent alignment checks and adjustments are performed to maintain X-ray quality, then radiation quality is preserved, but system productivity decreases due to repeated interventions
Solution Approach 1:
The automated alignment system operates continuously during system operation, constantly monitoring beam orientation and making real-time adjustments without interrupting X-ray generation. This eliminates periodic downtime for alignment checks while maintaining consistent radiation quality
Solution Approach 2:
The system autonomously maintains alignment through continuous sensor monitoring and automated adjustment, eliminating the need for external intervention and allowing uninterrupted operation that preserves both quality and productivity
3Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment procedures are used after maintenance and part replacement, then alignment can be restored, but the complexity and time required for maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The beam orientation sensor provides real-time feedback to the controller after maintenance activities, enabling automated verification and correction of alignment. This feedback loop eliminates the need for complex manual alignment procedures while ensuring precise restoration of beam-target alignment
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical alignment procedures are replaced by an automated electronic control system that uses sensor data to drive adjustment means, substituting complex manual mechanical operations with simpler automated electronic 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
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 performance and efficiency of the X-ray source.
Implementation Method 1
an anode electrode configured to accelerate the emitted electrons to form the electron beam
Implementation Method 2
X-ray radiation may be generated by directing an electron beam onto a target
Implementation Method 3
a focusing means configured to focus the electron beam on the target
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.