X-ray Window Ribs with Variable Cross-Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
X-ray windows face a challenge in balancing strength with minimal attenuation of x-rays, as existing support structures often interfere with x-ray passage and require a trade-off between rib thickness and strength to withstand differential pressures.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a support frame with a combination of larger and smaller ribs, where the larger ribs provide strength while the smaller ribs minimize x-ray attenuation, with openings between them allowing unobstructed x-ray transmission, and a thin film configured for optimal x-ray transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the support structure uses thicker ribs to increase strength, then the structural strength is improved, but the attenuation of x-rays increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into a hierarchical rib system with multiple size categories (large, medium, small ribs) rather than using uniform thickness. This segmentation allows different rib sizes to perform different functions: larger ribs provide structural strength while smaller ribs minimize x-ray attenuation, resolving the contradiction between strength and transparency.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the support structure use ribs with locally optimized cross-sectional dimensions. Larger ribs are positioned where structural strength is critical (e.g., near the frame and at intersections), while smaller ribs are used in regions where x-ray transmission is prioritized. This local differentiation allows the structure to simultaneously achieve both strength and minimal attenuation.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the ribs are made thinner to reduce x-ray attenuation, then x-ray transmission is improved, but the structural strength decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The rib system is segmented into multiple size categories rather than using uniform thin ribs. Small ribs provide minimal attenuation while large ribs provide the necessary structural strength. This segmentation allows the structure to achieve both goals simultaneously by distributing different rib sizes throughout the support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure implements a nested hierarchical arrangement where small ribs are supported by medium ribs, which in turn are supported by large ribs. This nesting allows thin small ribs to minimize attenuation while being reinforced by progressively larger ribs that provide the necessary structural strength without significantly increasing overall attenuation.
3Ease of manufacture
If the support structure is simplified to reduce manufacturing complexity, then ease of manufacture is improved, but the ability to balance strength and attenuation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention maintains design flexibility by allowing the parameters of ribs (cross-sectional dimensions, spacing, length) to be varied according to specific application requirements. The hierarchical rib structure provides a flexible framework where parameters can be adjusted to optimize the balance between strength and attenuation for different x-ray energy ranges and pressure conditions, while still being manufacturable using standard techniques.
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 design enhances the structural strength of x-ray windows while maintaining minimal x-ray attenuation, allowing for effective x-ray passage and durability under pressure differences.
Implementation Method 1
A film can be disposed over and span the ribs and openings. The film can be configured to pass radiation therethrough, such as by selecting a film material and thickness for optimal transmission of x-rays.
Data Source
AI summary
An x-ray window including a support frame with a perimeter and an aperture. A plurality of ribs can extend across the aperture of the support frame and can be supported or carried by the support frame. Openings exist between ribs to allow transmission of x-rays through such openings with no attenuation of x-rays by the ribs. A film can be disposed over and span the ribs and openings. The ribs can have at least two different cross-sectional sizes including at least one larger sized rib with a cross-sectional area that is at least 5% larger than a cross-sectional area of at least one smaller sized rib.