X-Ray Target Eccentric Rotation for Automated Beam Spot Shifting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing X-ray generating devices require manual intervention by operators to change the target position where electron beams are incident, leading to increased operational burden, especially when frequent changes are necessary.

Innovation Solution

Incorporation of an eccentric rotator and a driver to rotationally drive the target, allowing automated position change of the target without manual intervention, using an eccentric rotator to rotate the target while changing its position.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual moving of the target by operators using a jig is implemented, then the part of the target upon which electron beams are incident can be changed, but the burden on operators increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to change target positionVSAvoidoperator burden

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The target is equipped with a rotation mechanism that enables it to rotate and change its own incident position automatically without requiring external manual intervention. The target itself performs the positioning function through its integrated rotation capability, eliminating the need for operators to manually move it using jigs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The target transitions from a static component to a dynamic one by incorporating a rotation mechanism. This allows the target to actively change its orientation and incident position in response to control signals, enabling flexible repositioning without manual intervention and improving operational ease.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Extent of automation

If the target is simply rotated by a driver, then the target position can be changed automatically, but the same part of the target will be damaged after one revolution reducing target life

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated target position changeVSAvoidtarget life

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The rotation mechanism is designed with an asymmetric configuration where the rotation axis is offset from the center of the target. This asymmetric rotation ensures that different portions of the target surface are sequentially exposed to the electron beam during each rotation cycle, preventing any single area from being continuously damaged and thereby extending target life.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of simple rotational movement in one plane, the system introduces a second dimension of movement by combining rotation with radial displacement. The target rotates while simultaneously moving radially inward and outward, creating a complex two-dimensional scanning pattern that distributes beam exposure across multiple target areas and prevents localized damage accumulation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the X-ray generating device is located at an inaccessible position, then the device can be placed in optimal locations, but operators cannot manually move the target

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice location flexibilityVSAvoidmanual target movement accessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The target incorporates an integrated rotation mechanism that enables it to change its own incident position automatically without requiring external manual intervention. This self-service capability allows the system to operate effectively even when positioned in locations that are inaccessible to operators, eliminating the need for physical access for target repositioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical operation of moving the target using jigs is replaced by an automated rotation mechanism driven by a motor or actuator. This substitution of mechanical manual operation with automated mechanical control enables the system to function in inaccessible locations where human operators cannot physically reach to manually reposition the target.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical 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

Reduces operator burden, extends target life, and allows for automated position change even in inaccessible locations, simplifying the device structure and preventing damage to the target.

Implementation Method 1

an eccentric rotator configured to be eccentrically rotated to rotate the target while changing a position of the target

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectEccentric rotation: Eccentric

Data Source

PatentUS12573576B2X-ray generating device comprising an electron beam generator to generate an electron beam, a target to generate X-rays, an eccentric rotator to rotate the target, and a driver to rotationally drive the eccentric rotator

Publication Date: 2026.03.10 SHIMADZU CORP

AI summary

An X-ray generating device includes an electron beam generator configured to generate an electron beam; a target configured to generate X-rays in response to the electron beam incident on the target; an eccentric rotator configured to be eccentrically rotated to rotate the target while changing a position of the target; and a driver configured to rotationally drive the eccentric rotator.