EP0334734B1 - Electromagnetic image chromatic conversion device, and process for its manufacture - Google Patents

Electromagnetic image chromatic conversion device, and process for its manufacture Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0334734B1
EP0334734B1 EP89400763A EP89400763A EP0334734B1 EP 0334734 B1 EP0334734 B1 EP 0334734B1 EP 89400763 A EP89400763 A EP 89400763A EP 89400763 A EP89400763 A EP 89400763A EP 0334734 B1 EP0334734 B1 EP 0334734B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
wall
enclosure
exit
bowl
securing means
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP89400763A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0334734A1 (en
Inventor
Jean Thomson-Csf Ricodeau
Maurice Thomson-Csf Verat
Gilbert Thomson-Csf Colomb
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Thales SA
Original Assignee
Thomson CSF SA
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01J—ELECTRIC DISCHARGE TUBES OR DISCHARGE LAMPS
    • H01J29/00—Details of cathode-ray tubes or of electron-beam tubes of the types covered by group H01J31/00
    • H01J29/02—Electrodes; Screens; Mounting, supporting, spacing or insulating thereof
    • H01J29/10—Screens on or from which an image or pattern is formed, picked up, converted or stored
    • H01J29/18—Luminescent screens
    • H01J29/24—Supports for luminescent material
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01J—ELECTRIC DISCHARGE TUBES OR DISCHARGE LAMPS
    • H01J29/00—Details of cathode-ray tubes or of electron-beam tubes of the types covered by group H01J31/00
    • H01J29/86—Vessels; Containers; Vacuum locks
    • H01J29/861—Vessels or containers characterised by the form or the structure thereof
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01J—ELECTRIC DISCHARGE TUBES OR DISCHARGE LAMPS
    • H01J31/00—Cathode ray tubes; Electron beam tubes
    • H01J31/08—Cathode ray tubes; Electron beam tubes having a screen on or from which an image or pattern is formed, picked up, converted, or stored
    • H01J31/50—Image-conversion or image-amplification tubes, i.e. having optical, X-ray, or analogous input, and optical output
    • H01J31/501—Image-conversion or image-amplification tubes, i.e. having optical, X-ray, or analogous input, and optical output with an electrostatic electron optic system

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the chromatic conversion of an image obtained into electromagnetic radiation. It is particularly suitable in radiology for the conversion into visible light of an image obtained in X-rays, although the invention is not limited to this particular application.
  • FIG. 1 illustrating the state of the art, is a schematic longitudinal section showing the main elements of a device for chromatic conversion of an image obtained in X-rays.
  • the device T also called radiological image intensifier tube ( IIR)
  • IIR radiological image intensifier tube
  • This vacuum-tight enclosure 1 has an inlet wall 2 transparent to ionizing radiation behind which there is a photoelectric inlet screen 3 suitable for receiving ionizing radiation.
  • the photoelectric screen emits electrons along electronic paths 7.
  • the inlet wall 2 is located an outlet wall 4 having on its internal face an outlet screen with phosphor 5 suitable for receiving electrons and producing, in response, visible light by cathodoluminescence.
  • L enclosure 1 also comprises focusing means 6, linked to the latter by supports 64, for focusing the electrons emitted by the input screen 3 in the direction of the output screen 5.
  • focusing means 6 comprise a terminal electrode 60 also called anode, which, when the device is in operation can be at the same potential as the output screen, as well as a pre-terminal electrode 61 located in the vicinity of the terminal electrode and further from the output screen as the latter.
  • the focusing means 6 also include a set of electrodes 62 located between the pre-terminal electrode 61 and the input screen 3.
  • FIG 2 is a schematic partial longitudinal section showing a first arrangement of the outlet screen 5 vis-à-vis the outlet wall 4.
  • the outlet screen 5 consists a transparent or semi-transparent plate 51 (transparency of the order of 0.8), generally made of glass, covered with a layer of phosphor 50 which converts the energy of the electrons received. In general, this phosphor layer 50 consists of an agglomerate of very small grains.
  • the blade 51 is generally tinted and has typical dimensions of the order of 45 millimeters for the diameter and 0.6 millimeters for the thickness.
  • the outlet screen 5 is separated by a cup 53 from the outlet wall 4 so that a vacuum blade 52 with parallel faces is created between the blade 51 and the outlet wall 4.
  • the outlet screen 105 acts as an outlet wall in this arrangement.
  • the blade 151 supporting the phosphor layer 150 is relatively thick (of the order of 2.5 mm (millimeters)), so to be able to withstand the external pressure.
  • This blade 151 is provided with a fixing element 154 welded by a weld bead 155 to a similar fixing element 112 secured to the enclosure 101.
  • a first step in, the manufacture of this device will consist in depositing this layer 150 on the glass slide 151 and then assemble the glass slide by welding on the enclosure 101.
  • FIG. 4 also illustrating the state of the art and in which elements which are analogous or having similar functions with respect to those of FIG. 3 are assigned references increased by 100 compared to those they had in Figure 3. Only the differences between these two figures will be described.
  • the manufacture of the phosphor layer 250 is done on a thin, light and small blade 251.
  • This blade is then maintained in optical contact with the internal face 240 of the outlet wall 204 by means of an adhesive 208 which has the same optical index as that of the blade 251 and that of the outlet wall 204.
  • the contrast of the image is thus improved compared to that of the arrangement of FIG. 2.
  • a fine passage 230 is provided in the enclosure 201 to accommodate there a conductor 231 intended to supply the output screen in very high tension, thus avoiding the use of generalized coating.
  • the bonding operation of the outlet screen 205 must be done directly on the internal face 240 of the outlet wall 204.
  • This poses industrial manufacturing problems because the enclosure is relatively large (height of 200 to 400 mm (millimeters)) and the outlet wall is located at the bottom of a narrowed area of the enclosure, the height and average diameter of which are respectively of the order of 50 millimeters and 80 mm (millimeters).
  • the invention overcomes these drawbacks by proposing a solution tending to reduce the manufacturing costs of such devices.
  • An object of the invention is to be able to deposit an anti-reflection layer directly on the external face of the outlet wall of the enclosure.
  • Another object of the invention is to be able to envisage the manufacture of devices having a thick outlet wall which is simple to produce and does not penalize the addition of a possible anti-reflection layer.
  • the side wall of the bowl can be frustoconical and the first part of the fixing means can be a first metal collar while the second part of the fixing means can be a second metal collar having a projecting part inside the enclosure once it is assembled.
  • the pre-terminal focusing electrode can be fixed on the projecting part of the second metal collar.
  • the side wall of the bowl comprises a first frustoconical portion connecting to the bottom wall followed by a second frustoconical portion having a larger flare than that of the first frustoconical portion.
  • This second frustoconical portion advantageously comprises at least one fine pre-terminal conduit suitable for receiving a pre-terminal conductive element intended to supply a voltage to an electrode of the focusing means, the cooperation between the conductive element and its conduit not disturbing the character waterproof enclosure.
  • the first and second parts of the fixing means can be welded together to form said fixing means.
  • the latter can also consist of an adhesive joint joining the bowl to the rest of the enclosure.
  • the frusto-conical side wall of the bowl connected to the bottom wall, comprises at least one thin end conduit suitable for receiving a terminal conductive element intended to convey very high voltage, the cooperation between this conductive element and its conduit does not disturbing not the watertight nature of the enclosure.
  • the terminal electrode can be supplied by said terminal conductive element and also fixed on it.
  • the terminal element is the outlet wall.
  • the fixing means consist of another adhesive joint.
  • the terminal electrode is fixed to the pre-terminal electrode by electrically insulating attachment means.
  • an anti-reflection layer may be in optical contact with the external face of the outlet wall, the latter being able to be thick.
  • This anti-reflection layer can be deposited directly on the external face of the outlet wall, or else be placed on one of the faces of an additional plate transparent to the radiation of the phosphor, this additional plate being in optical contact with the external face of the outlet wall by means of a second adhesive having the same optical index as the first adhesive.
  • the additional blade can be made of glass or plastic.
  • an anti-reflection layer in optical contact with the external face of the outlet wall before making the terminal element integral with the rest of the enclosure.
  • FIG. 5 The elements represented in FIG. 5, analogous or having functions analogous to those represented in FIGS. 1, 2 (respectively 4), are assigned references increased by the value 300 (respectively 100) compared to those they had on Figures 1 and 2 (respectively 4). Only the differences between FIG. 5 and the aforementioned figures will be described.
  • the enclosure 301 consists of an end portion 310 connected to the rest 311 of the enclosure by fixing means 309.
  • the end element 310 is a bowl, the substantially flat bottom wall of which constitutes the outlet wall 304.
  • the side wall of this bowl 310 is frustoconical flaring from the bottom wall.
  • a first part of the fastening elements 309 constituted by a first metal collar 390.
  • the remainder 311 of the enclosure 301 comprises, in the vicinity of its terminal part, a second metal collar 391 constituting a second part of the fixing means 309.
  • This second metal collar 391 has a projecting part 393 inside the enclosure 301 once it has been assembled.
  • the collars 390 and 391 are welded together by means of a weld bead 392 thus constituting together the fixing means 309.
  • the pre-terminal electrode 361 is fixed to the projecting part 393 of the second metal collar 391.
  • This pre-terminal electrode 361 supports, by means of fastening elements electrically electrically insulating 363, the terminal electrode 360.
  • a thin terminal conduit 330 is formed in the frustoconical side wall of the bowl 310. Inside this conduit 330 is housed a metallic terminal conductor 331 for supplying high voltage to one part of the terminal electrode 360 and, on the other hand, the output screen 305. The cooperation between the conductor 331 and the conduit 330 does not disturb the tightness of the enclosure.
  • the use of this electrical conductor 331 avoids the problems of isolating the very high voltage and in particular avoids the generalized coating deposited on the output screen in certain devices of the state of the art already described.
  • the exit screen is glued to the internal face of the exit wall by means of glue 308, hereinafter referred to as the first glue, having the same optical index as that of the exit screen and that of the exit wall. exit.
  • An anti-reflection layer 374 is deposited on the additional strip 373, the latter being bonded to the external face 341 of the outlet wall 304 by means of the glue 372 called the second glue.
  • the subsequent checks and storage of the bowl 310, carried out separately from the rest 311 of the more bulky enclosure, are easier.
  • the enclosure is closed by the weld bead 309 can be done last after assembly of the other elements.
  • the anti-reflection layer 474 is deposited directly on the external face 441 of the outlet wall 404. This is possible in the device according to the invention, unlike those of the state of the art described above. before. Indeed, according to the invention, the outlet wall carrying the anti-reflection layer 474 does not have to undergo the manufacturing operations of the phosphor outlet screen (case of FIG. 3). Likewise, the deposition of the anti-reflection layer 474 does not have to be carried out on a complete large enclosure (case of FIG. 4).
  • the terminal conductor 531 housed in the terminal conduit 530, is rigid, which makes it possible not only to supply the terminal electrode but also to secure it.
  • Figure 8 shows a partial longitudinal section of a device according to the invention having a thick outlet wall of the order of 10 millimeters. While in the prior art devices described above, the problem of thickening the outlet wall posed problems of weight and very high voltage insulation, the use of a terminal element 610 distinct from the rest of the enclosure and therefore of smaller dimension makes it possible to solve this problem by simply thickening the outlet wall 604.
  • the terminal element 810 has the shape of a bowl, the first frustoconical portion 810A connected to the bottom wall is extended by a second frustoconical portion 810B having a larger flare.
  • the bowl 810 is joined to the rest 811 of the enclosure by an adhesive joint 894.
  • the adhesives which can be used some belong to the family of polyimides. These types of adhesives remain stable at 280 ° Celsius which is a temperature reached for IIR tubes during the manufacturing operations subsequent to bonding.
  • the adhesive joint produced is vacuum-tight and does not emit gases, the nature and quantity of which are incompatible with the quality of vacuum required for the proper functioning and the service life of the device according to the invention.
  • Such an embodiment makes it possible to avoid the use of metal parts such as the first and second collars (FIGS. 5 to 8).
  • the conduit 833, receiving the conductor 832, is formed in this second frustoconical part 810B.
  • the depth of the bowl 810 remains small (of the order of 50 mm (millimeters)) and is compatible with easy mounting and bonding of the phosphor screen 805.
  • the means for fixing the bowl 910 on the rest 911 of the enclosure are similar to those used in the case of a bowl having a single frustoconical portion ( Figures 5 to 8), namely a first metal collar 990, a second metal collar 991 connected to the rest of the enclosure and a weld bead 992 connecting the two aforementioned metal collars.
  • the pre-terminal electrode 961 being supplied by the conductor 932, the metal collars 990 and 991 are at a very low voltage which is that of a focusing electrode situated upstream of the pre-terminal electrode.
  • This voltage value can typically be of the order of 100 to 200V (Volts), or even be zero. This does not therefore result in an insulation problem outside the enclosure.
  • the anti-reflection layer can be deposited either directly on the external face of the outlet wall or by means of an additional strip glued to the external face of the outlet wall. with the second glue.
  • an additional blade can be made of glass or plastic.
  • the transparent material used it will be chosen so as to have a single medium with an optical index between the phosphor layer and the anti-reflection layer.
  • This optical index common to the support of the phosphor layer, to the first and second adhesives, to the outlet wall and possibly to the additional strip, is of the order of 1.5.
  • the phosphor screen once prepared, is glued to the internal face of the outlet wall of the terminal element. This is facilitated by the small dimensions of this terminal element. The latter is then assembled on the enclosure with the vacuum-tight fixing means. This prevents sticking of the exit screen in a complete enclosure at the bottom of a relatively deep well.

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  • Image-Pickup Tubes, Image-Amplification Tubes, And Storage Tubes (AREA)
  • Formation Of Various Coating Films On Cathode Ray Tubes And Lamps (AREA)
  • Cathode-Ray Tubes And Fluorescent Screens For Display (AREA)

Description

L'invention concerne la conversion chromatique d'une image obtenue en rayonnement électromagnétique. Elle convient particulièrement en radiologie pour la conversion on lumière visible d'une image obtenue en rayons X, bien que l'invention ne soit pas limitée à cette application particulière.The invention relates to the chromatic conversion of an image obtained into electromagnetic radiation. It is particularly suitable in radiology for the conversion into visible light of an image obtained in X-rays, although the invention is not limited to this particular application.

La figure 1, illustrant l'état de la technique, est une coupe longitudinale schématique montrant les principaux éléments d'un dispositif de conversion chromatique d'une image obtenue en rayons X. Le dispositif T, appelé aussi tube intensificateur d'image radiologique (IIR), comprend une enceinte de révolution 1 dans laquelle on a fait le vide. Cette enceinte 1 étanche au vide, possède une paroi d'entrée 2 transparente au rayonnement ionisant derrière laquelle se trouve un écran d'entrée photoélectrique 3 propre à recevoir le rayonnement ionisant. En réponse à ce rayonnement ionisant, l'écran photoélectrique émet des électrons selon des trajectoires électroniques 7. A l'opposé de la paroi d'entrée 2 est située une paroi de sortie 4 comportant sur sa face interne un écran de sortie à luminophore 5 propre à recevoir les électrons et à produire, en réponse, de la lumière visible par cathodoluminescence. La paroi de sortie 4 étant transparente au rayonnement du luminophore, permet l'observation de l'image obtenue. L'écran de sortie 5 peut être solidarisé à la paroi de sortie 4 à l'aide par exemple, d'une couche adhésive, comme décrit dans la demande de brevet français publié avec le n° FR-A-2 003 856. L'enceinte 1 comporte également des moyens de focalisation 6, liés à cette dernière par des supports 64, pour focaliser les électrons émis par l'écran d'entrée 3 en direction de l'écran de sortie 5. Ces moyens de focalisation 6 comportent une électrode terminale 60 également appelée anode, qui, lorsque le dispositif est en fonctionnement peut être au même potentiel que l'écran de sortie, ainsi qu'une électrode pré-terminale 61 située au voisinage de l'électrode terminale et plus éloignée de l'écran de sortie que cette dernière.FIG. 1, illustrating the state of the art, is a schematic longitudinal section showing the main elements of a device for chromatic conversion of an image obtained in X-rays. The device T, also called radiological image intensifier tube ( IIR), includes a chamber of revolution 1 in which a vacuum has been created. This vacuum-tight enclosure 1 has an inlet wall 2 transparent to ionizing radiation behind which there is a photoelectric inlet screen 3 suitable for receiving ionizing radiation. In response to this ionizing radiation, the photoelectric screen emits electrons along electronic paths 7. Opposite the inlet wall 2 is located an outlet wall 4 having on its internal face an outlet screen with phosphor 5 suitable for receiving electrons and producing, in response, visible light by cathodoluminescence. The outlet wall 4 being transparent to the radiation from the phosphor, allows observation of the image obtained. The outlet screen 5 can be secured to the outlet wall 4 using, for example, an adhesive layer, as described in the French patent application published with the number FR-A-2 003 856. L enclosure 1 also comprises focusing means 6, linked to the latter by supports 64, for focusing the electrons emitted by the input screen 3 in the direction of the output screen 5. These focusing means 6 comprise a terminal electrode 60 also called anode, which, when the device is in operation can be at the same potential as the output screen, as well as a pre-terminal electrode 61 located in the vicinity of the terminal electrode and further from the output screen as the latter.

Les moyens de focalisation 6 comportent également un jeu d'électrodes 62 situées entre l'électrode pré-terminale 61 et l'écran d'entrée 3.The focusing means 6 also include a set of electrodes 62 located between the pre-terminal electrode 61 and the input screen 3.

La figure 2, illustrant également l'état de la technique, est une coupe longitudinale partielle schématique représentant un premier agencement de l'écran de sortie 5 vis-à-vis de la paroi de sortie 4. L'écran de sortie 5 se compose d'une lame transparente ou semi-transparente 51 (transparence de l'ordre de 0,8), en général en verre, recouverte d'une couche de luminophore 50 qui convertit l'énergie des électrons reçus. En général, cette couche de luminophore 50 est constituée d'un agglomérat de grains de très petite taille. La lame 51 est en général teintée et possède des dimensions typiques de l'ordre de 45 millimètres pour le diamètre et de 0,6 millimètre pour l'épaisseur. L'écran de sortie 5 est séparé par une coupelle 53 de la paroi de sortie 4 de sorte qu'une lame de vide 52 à faces parallèles est créée entre la lame 51 et la paroi de sortie 4. Cependant, cette lame de vide 52 a un effet néfaste sur le contraste de l'image obtenue. Aussi a-t-elle été supprimée dans l'agencement de l'écran de sortie représenté sur la figure 3, illustrant également l'état de la technique et sur laquelle les éléments analogues ou ayant des fonctions analogues à ceux représentés sur la figure 2 sont affectés de références augmentées de 100 par rapport à celles qu'ils avaient sur cette précédente figure. Seules les différences entre ces deux figures seront détaillées ci-après.Figure 2, also illustrating the state of the art, is a schematic partial longitudinal section showing a first arrangement of the outlet screen 5 vis-à-vis the outlet wall 4. The outlet screen 5 consists a transparent or semi-transparent plate 51 (transparency of the order of 0.8), generally made of glass, covered with a layer of phosphor 50 which converts the energy of the electrons received. In general, this phosphor layer 50 consists of an agglomerate of very small grains. The blade 51 is generally tinted and has typical dimensions of the order of 45 millimeters for the diameter and 0.6 millimeters for the thickness. The outlet screen 5 is separated by a cup 53 from the outlet wall 4 so that a vacuum blade 52 with parallel faces is created between the blade 51 and the outlet wall 4. However, this vacuum blade 52 has a detrimental effect on the contrast of the image obtained. Also it has been removed in the arrangement of the output screen shown in Figure 3, also illustrating the state of the art and on which elements analogous or having functions analogous to those shown in Figure 2 are assigned references increased by 100 compared to those they had in this previous figure. Only the differences between these two figures will be detailed below.

L'écran de sortie 105 joue le rôle de paroi de sortie dans cet agencement. D'une manière semblable à celle montrée par le brevet européen EP-A-0 258 940, la lame 151 supportant la couche de luminophore 150, est relativement épaisse (de l'ordre de 2,5 mm (millimètres)), de façon à pouvoir supporter la pression extérieure. Cette lame 151 est munie d'un élément de fixation 154 soudé par un cordon de soudure 155 à un élément de fixation analogue 112 solidaire de l'enceinte 101. Une première étape de, la fabrication de ce dispositif consistera à déposer cette couche 150 sur la lame de verre 151 puis d'assembler la lame de verre par soudure sur l'enceinte 101.The outlet screen 105 acts as an outlet wall in this arrangement. In a manner similar to that shown by European patent EP-A-0 258 940, the blade 151 supporting the phosphor layer 150, is relatively thick (of the order of 2.5 mm (millimeters)), so to be able to withstand the external pressure. This blade 151 is provided with a fixing element 154 welded by a weld bead 155 to a similar fixing element 112 secured to the enclosure 101. A first step in, the manufacture of this device will consist in depositing this layer 150 on the glass slide 151 and then assemble the glass slide by welding on the enclosure 101.

Cet agencement présente cependant des inconvénients. En effet, bien que l'encombrement du support 151, sur lequel est déposée la couche de luminophore, soit réduit, il est encore trop important et grève les coûts de fabrication, d'autant plus que cette lame de verre 151 doit être épaisse pour pouvoir résister à la pression extérieure. Par ailleurs, lorsque le dispositif est en fonctionnement, l'écran de sortie est porté à une très haute tension (30 kV (kilovolts) environ), et les éléments de fixation 154, 155 et 112 doivent être isolés par rapport à l'environnement extérieur, notamment à l'aide d'un enrobage généralisé important effectué avec une résine isolante non représentée sur la figure 3. Les contraintes mécaniques de fixation, celles d'isolement de la très haute tension, celles de reprise optique de l'image et celles de fabrication de la couche de luminophore ne concordent pas toutes et le compromis d'optimisation de l'ensemble n'est pas optimum pour chaque domaine, ce qui se répercute défavorablement sur les coûts.This arrangement has drawbacks, however. Indeed, although the space taken up by the support 151, on which the phosphor layer is deposited, is reduced, it is still too large and puts a strain on manufacturing costs, all the more so since this glass slide 151 must be thick to be able to withstand external pressure. Furthermore, when the device is in operation, the output screen is brought to a very high voltage (approximately 30 kV (kilovolts)), and the fastening elements 154, 155 and 112 must be isolated from the environment. exterior, in particular by means of a large generalized coating made with an insulating resin not shown in FIG. 3. The mechanical fixing constraints, those of isolation of very high voltage, those of optical recovery of the image and those for manufacturing the phosphor layer do not all agree and the compromise for optimizing the assembly is not optimum for each area, which has an adverse effect on costs.

De plus il est difficile de déposer directement une couche anti-reflet sur la face externe de la paroi de sortie en raison de sa fragilité. Comme décrit par exemple dans le document de brevet européen EP-A-0 173 851, il convient alors de coller une lame additionnelle 173 sur la face externe de l'écran de sortie à l'aide d'une colle 172 ayant le même indice optique que celui de la lame 151 et que celui de la lame additionnelle 173, de façon à n'obtenir qu'un seul milieu d'indice optique entre la couche de luminophore 150 et la couche anti-reflet 174. La couche anti-reflet, fragile, ne sera déposée qu'à la fin du processus de fabrication du dispositif.In addition, it is difficult to deposit an anti-reflection layer directly on the external face of the outlet wall because of its fragility. As described for example in European patent document EP-A-0 173 851, it is then advisable to glue an additional blade 173 to the external face of the exit screen using an adhesive 172 having the same index optical than that of the blade 151 and that of the additional blade 173, so as to obtain only a single medium of optical index between the phosphor layer 150 and the anti-reflection layer 174. The anti-reflection layer , fragile, will only be deposited at the end of the device manufacturing process.

On obtient alors une multiplication du nombre d'opérations successives dans la fabrication du dispositif, ce qui augmente encore les coûts. En outre, en cas de rayures de la couche anti-reflet, il n'y a pas possibilité de réparation sans détruire l'enrobage, ce qui risque éventuellement de casser l'enceinte.This results in a multiplication of the number of successive operations in the manufacture of the device, which further increases the costs. In addition, in the event of scratching of the anti-reflection layer, there is no possibility of repair without destroying the coating, which may possibly break the enclosure.

Afin de pallier ces inconvénients, on utilise l'agencement décrit sur la figure 4, illustrant également l'état de la technique et sur laquelle les éléments analogues ou ayant des fonctions analogues par rapport à ceux de la figure 3 sont affectés de références augmentées de 100 par rapport à celles qu'ils avaient sur la figure 3. Seules les différences entre ces deux figures seront décrites.In order to overcome these drawbacks, use is made of the arrangement described in FIG. 4, also illustrating the state of the art and in which elements which are analogous or having similar functions with respect to those of FIG. 3 are assigned references increased by 100 compared to those they had in Figure 3. Only the differences between these two figures will be described.

Dans cet agencement, la fabrication de la couche de luminophore 250 se fait sur une lame 251 mince, légère et de petite dimension. Cette lame est ensuite maintenue en contact optique avec la face interne 240 de la paroi de sortie 204 par l'intermédiaire d'une colle 208 qui a le même indice optique que celui de la lame 251 et que celui de la paroi de sortie 204. Le contraste de l'image est ainsi amélioré par rapport à celui de l'agencement de la figure 2. Un fin passage 230 est ménagé dans l'enceinte 201 pour y loger un conducteur 231 destiné à alimenter l'écran de sortie en très haute tension, évitant ainsi l'emploi d'enrobage généralisé.In this arrangement, the manufacture of the phosphor layer 250 is done on a thin, light and small blade 251. This blade is then maintained in optical contact with the internal face 240 of the outlet wall 204 by means of an adhesive 208 which has the same optical index as that of the blade 251 and that of the outlet wall 204. The contrast of the image is thus improved compared to that of the arrangement of FIG. 2. A fine passage 230 is provided in the enclosure 201 to accommodate there a conductor 231 intended to supply the output screen in very high tension, thus avoiding the use of generalized coating.

Par contre, l'opération de collage de l'écran de sortie 205 doit se faire directement sur la face interne 240 de la paroi de sortie 204. Ceci pose des problèmes industriels de fabrication car l'enceinte est de relativement grande dimension (hauteur de l'ordre de 200 à 400 mm (millimètres)) et la paroi de sortie se situe au fond d'une zone rétrécie de l'enceinte, dont la hauteur et le diamètre moyen sont respectivement de l'ordre de 50 millimètres et de 80 mm (millimètres).On the other hand, the bonding operation of the outlet screen 205 must be done directly on the internal face 240 of the outlet wall 204. This poses industrial manufacturing problems because the enclosure is relatively large (height of 200 to 400 mm (millimeters)) and the outlet wall is located at the bottom of a narrowed area of the enclosure, the height and average diameter of which are respectively of the order of 50 millimeters and 80 mm (millimeters).

De plus, si l'on souhaite déposer une couche anti-reflet 274 à l'extérieur de l'enceinte 201, il est préférable de le faire sur une lame additionnelle 273 collée sur la paroi de sortie 204 par l'intermédiaire de la colle 272, ce afin d'éviter des manipulations sur une enceinte assemblée de grande dimension.In addition, if one wishes to deposit an anti-reflection layer 274 outside the enclosure 201, it is preferable to do so on an additional blade 273 bonded to the outlet wall 204 by means of the adhesive. 272, this so avoid handling on a large assembled enclosure.

La grande majorité des montages optiques utilisés pour visualiser l'image optique donnée par les tubes intensificateurs d'image radiologique sont utilisés pour une image située derrière une lame de verre d'épaisseur 3,5 mm (millimètres) environ. Aussi, l'épaisseur typique,des tubes IIR, prise entre la couche de luminophore et la couche anti-reflet est de l'ordre de 3,5 mm (millimètres) environ. Cependant, de nouveaux montages optiques sont actuellement développés afin d'être optimisés pour une épaisseur d'au moins 8 à 10 mm (millimètres), ce qui a un effet favorable sur le contraste de l'image. Dans ces conditions, il s'agit d'épaissir soit la lame support de la couche de luminophore, soit la paroi de sortie, soit la lame additionnelle support de la couche anti-reflet. Pour des raisons de contrainte de fabrication de la couche de luminophore, il n'est pas souhaitable d'épaissir la lame de verre la supportant. Il en est de même pour la paroi de sortie d'une enceinte généralement de grande dimension. Aussi, une solution consisterait à épaissir la lame additionnelle 173 supportant la couche anti-reflet. Cependant, cela a l'inconvénient de l'alourdir et d'accroître les risques de décollement de cette lame additionnelle lors de chocs mécaniques ou thermiques. De plus, dans le cas de l'agencement décrit sur la figure 3, l'écran de sortie 105 s'en trouve alourdi, les fixations 154 devant alors être dimensionnées en conséquence tout en respectant les contraintes d'isolement de la très haute tension. Ceci accroît d'autant plus la difficulté de fabrication et les coûts.The vast majority of optical arrangements used to visualize the optical image given by the radiological image intensifier tubes are used for an image situated behind a glass slide of thickness approximately 3.5 mm (millimeters). Also, the typical thickness of IIR tubes, taken between the phosphor layer and the anti-reflection layer is of the order of about 3.5 mm (millimeters). However, new optical arrangements are currently being developed in order to be optimized for a thickness of at least 8 to 10 mm (millimeters), which has a favorable effect on the contrast of the image. Under these conditions, this involves thickening either the support blade of the phosphor layer, or the outlet wall, or the additional support blade of the anti-reflection layer. For reasons of manufacturing constraint of the phosphor layer, it is not desirable to thicken the glass slide supporting it. It is the same for the outlet wall of a generally large enclosure. Also, one solution would be to thicken the additional blade 173 supporting the anti-reflection layer. However, this has the disadvantage of making it heavier and increasing the risks of detachment of this additional blade during mechanical or thermal shocks. In addition, in the case of the arrangement described in FIG. 3, the output screen 105 is made heavier, the fasteners 154 then having to be dimensioned accordingly while respecting the isolation constraints of the very high voltage. . This further increases the difficulty of manufacture and costs.

L'invention pallie ces inconvénients en proposant une solution tendant à réduire les coûts de fabrication de tels dispositifs.The invention overcomes these drawbacks by proposing a solution tending to reduce the manufacturing costs of such devices.

Un but de l'invention est de pouvoir déposer une couche anti-reflet directement sur la face externe de la paroi de sortie de l'enceinte.An object of the invention is to be able to deposit an anti-reflection layer directly on the external face of the outlet wall of the enclosure.

Un autre but de l'invention est de pouvoir envisager la fabrication de dispositifs ayant une paroi de sortie épaisse simple à réaliser et ne pénalisant pas l'adjonction d'une éventuelle couche anti-reflet.Another object of the invention is to be able to envisage the manufacture of devices having a thick outlet wall which is simple to produce and does not penalize the addition of a possible anti-reflection layer.

L'invention a donc pour objet un dispositif de conversion chromatique d'une image obtenue en rayonnement électromagnétique, en particulier pour passer d'un rayonnement ionisant en lumière visible, comprenant une enceinte étanche au vide possédant :

  • une paroi d'entrée transparente au rayonnement électromagnétique, derrière laquelle se trouve un écran d'entrée photoélectrique propre à recevoir le rayonnement électromagnétique, et
  • une paroi de sortie munie sur sa face interne d'un écran de sortie à luminophore et transparente au rayonnement du luminophore, ainsi que
  • des moyens de focalisation liés à l'enceinte pour focaliser les électrons émis par l'écran d'entrée en direction de l'écran de sortie,
caractérisé en ce que la paroi de sortie, sur la face interne de laquelle est collé l'écran de sortie au moyen d'une première colle ayant un indice optique identique à celui de la paroi de sortie, fait partie d'un élément terminal de l'enceinte rendu solidaire du reste de l'enceinte par des moyens de fixation étanche au vide, ledit élément terminal étant réalisé en matière électriquement isolante et transparente au rayonnement du luminophore, et ayant d'autre part la forme d'une cuvette ayant une paroi de fond sensiblement plane constituant la paroi de sortie, la paroi latérale de cette cuvette s'évasant à partir de sa paroi de fond, une première partie des moyens de fixation étant située au voisinage de l'extrémité libre de la paroi latérale tandis qu'une deuxième partie des moyens de fixation est située au voisinage de l'extrémité libre dudit reste de l'enceinte.The subject of the invention is therefore a device for chromatic conversion of an image obtained into electromagnetic radiation, in particular for passing from ionizing radiation into visible light, comprising a vacuum-tight enclosure having:
  • an entry wall transparent to electromagnetic radiation, behind which is a photoelectric entry screen suitable for receiving electromagnetic radiation, and
  • an outlet wall provided on its internal face with a phosphor outlet screen and transparent to the radiation of the phosphor, as well as
  • focusing means linked to the enclosure for focusing the electrons emitted by the input screen towards the output screen,
characterized in that the outlet wall, on the internal face of which the outlet screen is bonded by means of a first adhesive having an optical index identical to that of the outlet wall, is part of a terminal element of the enclosure made integral with the rest of the enclosure by vacuum-tight fixing means, said terminal element being made of electrically insulating material and transparent to the radiation of the phosphor, and having, on the other hand, the shape of a bowl having a substantially flat bottom wall constituting the outlet wall, the side wall of this bowl widening from its bottom wall, a first part of the fixing means being located in the vicinity of the free end of the side wall while 'a second part of the fixing means is located in the vicinity of the free end of said rest of the enclosure.

La paroi latérale de la cuvette peut être tronconique et la première partie des moyens de fixation peut être un premier collet métallique tandis que la deuxième partie des moyens de fixation peut être un deuxième collet métallique ayant une partie saillante à l'intérieur de l'enceinte une fois celle-ci assemblée. Ainsi, l'électrode de focalisation préterminale peut être fixée sur la partie saillante du deuxième collet métallique.The side wall of the bowl can be frustoconical and the first part of the fixing means can be a first metal collar while the second part of the fixing means can be a second metal collar having a projecting part inside the enclosure once it is assembled. Thus, the pre-terminal focusing electrode can be fixed on the projecting part of the second metal collar.

Dans certains modes de réalisation, la paroi latérale de la cuvette comprend une première portion tronconique se raccordant à la paroi de fond suivie d'une deuxième portion tronconique présentant un évasement plus important que celui de la première portion tronconique.In some embodiments, the side wall of the bowl comprises a first frustoconical portion connecting to the bottom wall followed by a second frustoconical portion having a larger flare than that of the first frustoconical portion.

Cette deuxième portion tronconique comprend avantageusement au moins un fin conduit pré-terminal propre à recevoir un élément conducteur pré-terminal destiné à alimenter en tension une électrode des moyens de focalisation, la coopération entre l'élément conducteur et son conduit ne perturbant pas le caractère étanche de l'enceinte.This second frustoconical portion advantageously comprises at least one fine pre-terminal conduit suitable for receiving a pre-terminal conductive element intended to supply a voltage to an electrode of the focusing means, the cooperation between the conductive element and its conduit not disturbing the character waterproof enclosure.

Les première et deuxième parties des moyens de fixation peuvent être soudées ensemble pour constituer lesdits moyens de fixation. Ces derniers peuvent également être constitués d'un joint de colle solidarisant la cuvette du reste de l'enceinte.The first and second parts of the fixing means can be welded together to form said fixing means. The latter can also consist of an adhesive joint joining the bowl to the rest of the enclosure.

Avantageusement, la paroi latérale tronconique de la cuvette, raccordée à la paroi de fond, comporte au moins un fin conduit terminal propre à recevoir un élément conducteur terminal destiné à véhiculer de la très haute tension, la coopération entre cet élément conducteur et son conduit ne perturbant pas le caractère étanche de l'enceinte. Dans ce cas, l'électrode terminale peut être alimentée par ledit élément conducteur terminal et fixée également sur lui.Advantageously, the frusto-conical side wall of the bowl, connected to the bottom wall, comprises at least one thin end conduit suitable for receiving a terminal conductive element intended to convey very high voltage, the cooperation between this conductive element and its conduit does not disturbing not the watertight nature of the enclosure. In this case, the terminal electrode can be supplied by said terminal conductive element and also fixed on it.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'élément terminal est la paroi de sortie. Dans ce cas, les moyens de fixation sont constitués d'un autre joint de colle.In another embodiment of the invention, the terminal element is the outlet wall. In this case, the fixing means consist of another adhesive joint.

D'une manière très avantageuse, l'électrode terminale est fixée à l'électrode pré-terminale par des moyens d'attache électriquement isolants.Very advantageously, the terminal electrode is fixed to the pre-terminal electrode by electrically insulating attachment means.

Dans tous les modes de réalisation du dispositif selon l'invention, une couche anti-reflet peut être en contact optique avec la face externe de la paroi de sortie, cette dernière pouvant être épaisse.In all the embodiments of the device according to the invention, an anti-reflection layer may be in optical contact with the external face of the outlet wall, the latter being able to be thick.

Cette couche anti-reflet peut être déposée directement sur la face externe de la paroi de sortie, ou bien être disposée sur une des faces d'une lame additionnelle transparente au rayonnement du luminophore, cette lame additionnelle étant en contact optique avec la face externe de la paroi de sortie au moyen d'une deuxième colle ayant le même indice optique que la première colle.This anti-reflection layer can be deposited directly on the external face of the outlet wall, or else be placed on one of the faces of an additional plate transparent to the radiation of the phosphor, this additional plate being in optical contact with the external face of the outlet wall by means of a second adhesive having the same optical index as the first adhesive.

La lame additionnelle peut être en verre ou bien en matière plastique.The additional blade can be made of glass or plastic.

L'invention concerne également un procédé de fabrication d'un dispositif de conversion chromatique d'une image obtenue en rayonnement électromagnétique, en particulier pour passer d'un rayonnement ionisant en lumière visible, procédé dans lequel :

  • a) on prépare une enceinte étanche au vide possédant :
    • une paroi d'entrée transparente au rayonnement électromagnétique, derrière laquelle se trouve un écran d'entrée photoélectrique propre à recevoir le rayonnement électromagnétique, et
    • une paroi de sortie ainsi que des moyens de focalisation liés à l'enceinte pour focaliser les électrons émis par l'écran d'entrée en direction de la paroi de sortie,
  • b) on prépare un écran de sortie à luminophore que l'on fixe sur la face interne de la paroi de sortie,
caractérisé en ce que l'on prépare l'enceinte en deux éléments dont un élément terminal comprenant la paroi de sortie,
en ce que dans l'étape b), on fixe l'écran de sortie à luminophore sur la face interne de la paroi de sortie à l'aide d'une première colle ayant un indice optique identique à celui de la paroi de sortie, et
en ce qu'on rend solidaire l'élément terminal du reste de l'enceinte par des moyens de fixation étanches au vide, ledit élément terminal étant d'une part réalisé en matière électriquement isolante et transparente au rayonnement du luminophore, et ayant d'autre part la forme d'une cuvette ayant une paroi de fond sensiblement plane constituant la paroi de sortie, la paroi latérale de cette cuvette s'évasant à partir de sa paroi de fond, une première partie des moyens de fixation étant située au voisinage de l'extrémité libre de la paroi latérale tandis qu'une deuxième partie des moyens de fixation est située au voisinage de l'extrémité libre dudit reste de l'enceinte.The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a device for chromatic conversion of an image obtained into electromagnetic radiation, in particular for passing from ionizing radiation into visible light, method in which:
  • a) preparing a vacuum-tight enclosure having:
    • an entry wall transparent to electromagnetic radiation, behind which is a photoelectric input screen suitable for receiving electromagnetic radiation, and
    • an outlet wall as well as focusing means linked to the enclosure for focusing the electrons emitted by the inlet screen in the direction of the outlet wall,
  • b) a phosphor exit screen is prepared which is fixed on the internal face of the exit wall,
characterized in that the enclosure is prepared in two elements including a terminal element comprising the outlet wall,
in that in step b), the phosphor outlet screen is fixed to the internal face of the outlet wall using a first adhesive having an optical index identical to that of the outlet wall, and
in that the terminal element is made integral with the rest of the enclosure by vacuum-tight fixing means, said terminal element being on the one hand made of electrically insulating material and transparent to the radiation of the phosphor, and having on the other hand, the shape of a bowl having a substantially planar bottom wall constituting the outlet wall, the side wall of this bowl widening from its bottom wall, a first part of the fixing means being located in the vicinity of the free end of the side wall while a second part of the fixing means is located in the vicinity of the free end of said rest of the enclosure.

Avantageusement, on dispose une couche anti-reflet en contact optique avec la face externe de la paroi de sortie avant de rendre l'élément terminal solidaire du reste de l'enceinte.Advantageously, there is an anti-reflection layer in optical contact with the external face of the outlet wall before making the terminal element integral with the rest of the enclosure.

D'autres avantages et caractéristiques de l'invention apparaîtront à l'examen de la description détaillée ci-après et des dessins annexés, sur lesquels :

  • la figure 1, déjà décrite, est une coupe longitudinale schématique d'un dispositif de l'état de la technique,
  • la figure 2, déjà décrite, illustrant l'état de la technique, est une coupe longitudinale partielle schématique d'un premier agencement d'un écran de sortie sur une paroi de sortie,
  • la figure 3, déjà décrite, illustrant l'état de la technique, est une coupe longitudinale partielle schématique d'un deuxième agencement d'un écran de sortie constituant une paroi de sortie,
  • la figure 4, déjà décrite, illustrant l'état de la technique, est une coupe longitudinale partielle schématique d'un troisième agencement d'un écran de sortie sur une paroi de sortie,
  • la figure 5 est une coupe longitudinale partielle schématique d'un premier mode de réalisation du dispositif selon l'invention,
  • la figure 6 est une coupe longitudinale partielle schématique d'un deuxième mode de réalisation du dispositif selon l'invention,
  • la figure 7 est une coupe longitudinale partielle schématique d'un troisième mode de réalisation du dispositif selon l'invention,
  • la figure 8 est une coupe longitudinale partielle schématiqu d'un quatrième mode de réalisation du dispositif selon l'invention,
  • la figure 9 est une coupe longitudinale partielle schématique d'un cinquième mode de réalisation du dispositif selon l'invention, et,
  • la figure 10 est une coupe longitudinale partielle schématique d'un sixième mode de réalisation du dispositif selon l'invention.
Other advantages and characteristics of the invention will appear on examining the detailed description below and the attached drawings, on which :
  • FIG. 1, already described, is a schematic longitudinal section of a device of the state of the art,
  • Figure 2, already described, illustrating the state of the art, is a schematic partial longitudinal section of a first arrangement of an exit screen on an exit wall,
  • FIG. 3, already described, illustrating the state of the art, is a schematic partial longitudinal section of a second arrangement of an outlet screen constituting an outlet wall,
  • FIG. 4, already described, illustrating the state of the art, is a schematic partial longitudinal section of a third arrangement of an outlet screen on an outlet wall,
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic partial longitudinal section of a first embodiment of the device according to the invention,
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic partial longitudinal section of a second embodiment of the device according to the invention,
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic partial longitudinal section of a third embodiment of the device according to the invention,
  • FIG. 8 is a schematic partial longitudinal section of a fourth embodiment of the device according to the invention,
  • FIG. 9 is a schematic partial longitudinal section of a fifth embodiment of the device according to the invention, and,
  • Figure 10 is a schematic partial longitudinal section of a sixth embodiment of the device according to the invention.

Les dessins comportant pour l'essentiel des éléments de caractère certain pourront servir non seulement à mieux faire comprendre la description détaillée ci-après, mais aussi à contribuer, le cas échéant, à la définition de l'invention.The drawings essentially comprising elements of a certain character may serve not only to make the detailed description below better understood, but also to contribute, where appropriate, to the definition of the invention.

Les éléments représentés sur la figure 5, analogues ou ayant des fonctions analogues à ceux représentés sur les figures 1, 2 (respectivement 4), sont affectés des références augmentées de la valeur 300 (respectivement 100) par rapport à celles qu'ils avaient sur les figures 1 et 2 (respectivement 4). Seules les différences entre la figure 5 et les figures précitées seront décrites.The elements represented in FIG. 5, analogous or having functions analogous to those represented in FIGS. 1, 2 (respectively 4), are assigned references increased by the value 300 (respectively 100) compared to those they had on Figures 1 and 2 (respectively 4). Only the differences between FIG. 5 and the aforementioned figures will be described.

L'enceinte 301 se compose d'une partie terminale 310 reliée au reste 311 de l'enceinte par des moyens de fixation 309. L'élément terminal 310 est une cuvette dont la paroi de fond sensiblement plane constitue la paroi de sortie 304. La paroi latérale de cette cuvette 310 est tronconique s'évasant depuis la paroi de fond. Au voisinage de l'extrémité libre de cette paroi latérale est fixée une première partie des éléments de fixation 309 constituée par un premier collet métallique 390. Le reste 311 de l'enceinte 301 comporte, au voisinage de sa partie terminale, un deuxième collet métallique 391 constituant une deuxième partie des moyens de fixation 309. Ce deuxième collet métallique 391 comporte une partie 393 saillante à l'intérieur de l'enceinte 301 une fois celle-ci assemblée. Les collets 390 et 391 sont soudés ensemble au moyen d'un cordon de soudure 392 constituant ainsi ensemble les moyens de fixation 309.The enclosure 301 consists of an end portion 310 connected to the rest 311 of the enclosure by fixing means 309. The end element 310 is a bowl, the substantially flat bottom wall of which constitutes the outlet wall 304. The side wall of this bowl 310 is frustoconical flaring from the bottom wall. In the vicinity of the free end of this side wall is fixed a first part of the fastening elements 309 constituted by a first metal collar 390. The remainder 311 of the enclosure 301 comprises, in the vicinity of its terminal part, a second metal collar 391 constituting a second part of the fixing means 309. This second metal collar 391 has a projecting part 393 inside the enclosure 301 once it has been assembled. The collars 390 and 391 are welded together by means of a weld bead 392 thus constituting together the fixing means 309.

L'électrode pré-terminale 361 est fixée sur la partie saillante 393 du deuxième collet métallique 391. Cette électrode pré-terminale 361 supporte, au moyen d'éléments d'attache électriquement isolants électriquement 363, l'électrode terminale 360. Un fin conduit terminal 330 est ménagé dans la paroi latérale tronconique de la cuvette 310. A l'intérieur de ce conduit 330 est logé un conducteur terminal métallique 331 pour alimenter en haute tension d'une part de l'électrode terminale 360 et, d'autre part, de l'écran de sortie 305. La coopération entre le conducteur 331 et le conduit 330 ne perturbe pas le caractère étanche de l'enceinte. L'utilisation de ce conducteur électrique 331 évite les problèmes d'isolement de la très haute tension et évite en particulier l'enrobage généralisé déposé sur l'écran de sortie dans certains dispositifs de l'état de la technique déjà décrits.The pre-terminal electrode 361 is fixed to the projecting part 393 of the second metal collar 391. This pre-terminal electrode 361 supports, by means of fastening elements electrically electrically insulating 363, the terminal electrode 360. A thin terminal conduit 330 is formed in the frustoconical side wall of the bowl 310. Inside this conduit 330 is housed a metallic terminal conductor 331 for supplying high voltage to one part of the terminal electrode 360 and, on the other hand, the output screen 305. The cooperation between the conductor 331 and the conduit 330 does not disturb the tightness of the enclosure. The use of this electrical conductor 331 avoids the problems of isolating the very high voltage and in particular avoids the generalized coating deposited on the output screen in certain devices of the state of the art already described.

L'écran de sortie est collé sur la face interne de la paroi de sortie au moyen de la colle 308, désignée ci-après première colle, ayant le même indice optique que celui de l'écran de sortie et que celui de la paroi de sortie.The exit screen is glued to the internal face of the exit wall by means of glue 308, hereinafter referred to as the first glue, having the same optical index as that of the exit screen and that of the exit wall. exit.

Une couche anti-reflet 374 est déposée sur la lame additionnelle 373, celle-ci étant collée sur la face externe 341 de la paroi de sortie 304 par l'intermédiaire de la colle 372 dite deuxième colle. La profondeur, de l'ordre de quelques centimètres, et le plus grand diamètre, de l'ordre de 10 cm, de la cuvette 310, rendent relativement aisée l'opération de collage de l'écran 305 sur la face interne de la paroi de sortie 340. De même, les contrôles et le stockage ultérieurs de la cuvette 310, effectués séparément du reste 311 de l'enceinte plus encombrant, sont plus aisés. Ainsi, la fermeture de l'enceinte par le cordon de soudure 309 peut se faire en dernier lieu après assemblage des autres éléments.An anti-reflection layer 374 is deposited on the additional strip 373, the latter being bonded to the external face 341 of the outlet wall 304 by means of the glue 372 called the second glue. The depth, of the order of a few centimeters, and the largest diameter, of the order of 10 cm, of the bowl 310, make it relatively easy to bond the screen 305 to the internal face of the wall. Similarly, the subsequent checks and storage of the bowl 310, carried out separately from the rest 311 of the more bulky enclosure, are easier. Thus, the enclosure is closed by the weld bead 309 can be done last after assembly of the other elements.

D'une façon générale, pour une figure ayant un numéro n supérieur ou égal à 6, les éléments qui y sont représentés et qui sont analogues ou qui ont une fonction analogue à ceux représentés sur la figure ayant le numéro n-1, sont affectés de références augmentées de 100 par rapport à celles qu'ils avaient sur la figure n-1. Seules les différences entre la figure n et la figure n-1 seront décrites.In general, for a figure having a number n greater than or equal to 6, the elements which are represented there and which are analogous or which have a function analogous to those represented in the figure having the number n-1, are affected of references increased by 100 compared to those they had in Figure n-1. Only the differences between figure n and figure n-1 will be described.

Sur la figure 6, la couche anti-reflet 474 est déposée directement sur la face externe 441 de la paroi de sortie 404. Ceci est possible dans le dispositif selon l'invention, contrairement à ceux de l'état de la technique décrits ci-avant. En effet, selon l'invention, la paroi de sortie portant la couche anti-reflet 474 n'a pas à subir les opérations de fabrication de l'écran de sortie à luminophore (cas de la figure 3). De même, le dépôt de la couche anti-reflet 474 n'a pas à être effectué sur une enceinte complète de grande dimension (cas de la figure 4).In FIG. 6, the anti-reflection layer 474 is deposited directly on the external face 441 of the outlet wall 404. This is possible in the device according to the invention, unlike those of the state of the art described above. before. Indeed, according to the invention, the outlet wall carrying the anti-reflection layer 474 does not have to undergo the manufacturing operations of the phosphor outlet screen (case of FIG. 3). Likewise, the deposition of the anti-reflection layer 474 does not have to be carried out on a complete large enclosure (case of FIG. 4).

Sur la figure 7, le conducteur terminal 531, logé dans le conduit terminal 530, est rigide, ce qui permet non seulement d'alimenter l'électrode terminale mais aussi d'en assurer la fixation.In FIG. 7, the terminal conductor 531, housed in the terminal conduit 530, is rigid, which makes it possible not only to supply the terminal electrode but also to secure it.

La figure 8 représente une coupe longitudinale partielle d'un dispositif selon l'invention présentant une paroi de sortie épaisse de l'ordre de 10 millimètres. Alors que dans les dispositifs de l'état de la technique ci-avant décrits, le problème de l'épaississement de la paroi de sortie posait des problèmes de poids et d'isolement de très haute tension, l'utilisation d'un élément terminal 610 distinct du reste de l'enceinte et donc de plus petite dimension permet de résoudre ce problème en épaississant simplement la paroi de sortie 604. Dans le mode de réalisation de la figure 9, l'élément terminal 810 a la forme d'une cuvette dont la première portion tronconique 810A raccordée à la paroi de fond se prolonge par une deuxième portion tronconique 810B présentant un évasement plus important. La cuvette 810 est solidarisée du reste 811 de l'enceinte par un joint de colle 894 Parmi les colles utilisables, certaines appartiennent à la famille des polyimides. Ces types de colles restent stables à 280° Celsius qui est une température atteinte pour les tubes IIR pendant les opérations de fabrication ultérieures au collage. Le joint de colle réalisé est étanche au vide et ne dégage pas de gaz dont la nature et la quantité sont incompatibles avec la qualité de vide requise pour le bon fonctionnement et la durée de vie du dispositif selon l'invention. Un tel mode de réalisation permet d'éviter l'emploi de pièces métalliques telles que les premier et deuxième collets (figures 5 à 8). Le conduit 833, recevant le conducteur 832, est ménagé dans cette deuxième partie tronconique 810B. La profondeur de la cuvette 810 reste faible (de l'ordre de 50 mm (millimètres)) et est compatible avec un montage et un collage aisés de l'écran à luminophore 805.Figure 8 shows a partial longitudinal section of a device according to the invention having a thick outlet wall of the order of 10 millimeters. While in the prior art devices described above, the problem of thickening the outlet wall posed problems of weight and very high voltage insulation, the use of a terminal element 610 distinct from the rest of the enclosure and therefore of smaller dimension makes it possible to solve this problem by simply thickening the outlet wall 604. In the embodiment of Figure 9, the terminal element 810 has the shape of a bowl, the first frustoconical portion 810A connected to the bottom wall is extended by a second frustoconical portion 810B having a larger flare. The bowl 810 is joined to the rest 811 of the enclosure by an adhesive joint 894. Among the adhesives which can be used, some belong to the family of polyimides. These types of adhesives remain stable at 280 ° Celsius which is a temperature reached for IIR tubes during the manufacturing operations subsequent to bonding. The adhesive joint produced is vacuum-tight and does not emit gases, the nature and quantity of which are incompatible with the quality of vacuum required for the proper functioning and the service life of the device according to the invention. Such an embodiment makes it possible to avoid the use of metal parts such as the first and second collars (FIGS. 5 to 8). The conduit 833, receiving the conductor 832, is formed in this second frustoconical part 810B. The depth of the bowl 810 remains small (of the order of 50 mm (millimeters)) and is compatible with easy mounting and bonding of the phosphor screen 805.

Dans le mode de réalisation représenté sur la figure 10, les moyens de fixation de la cuvette 910 sur le reste 911 de l'enceinte sont analogues à ceux utilisés dans le cas d'une cuvette présentant une seule portion tronconique (figures 5 à 8), à savoir un premier collet métallique 990, un deuxième collet métallique 991 relié au reste de l'enceinte et un cordon de soudure 992 reliant les deux collets métalliques précités. L'électrode pré-terminale 961 étant alimentée par le conducteur 932, les collets métalliques 990 et 991 sont à une tension très faible qui est celle d'une électrode de focalisation située en amont de l'électrode pré-terminale. Cette valeur de tension peut être typiquement de l'ordre de 100 à 200V (Volts), ou même être nulle. Il n'en résulte donc pas un problème d'isolement à l'extérieur de l'enceinte.In the embodiment shown in Figure 10, the means for fixing the bowl 910 on the rest 911 of the enclosure are similar to those used in the case of a bowl having a single frustoconical portion (Figures 5 to 8), namely a first metal collar 990, a second metal collar 991 connected to the rest of the enclosure and a weld bead 992 connecting the two aforementioned metal collars. The pre-terminal electrode 961 being supplied by the conductor 932, the metal collars 990 and 991 are at a very low voltage which is that of a focusing electrode situated upstream of the pre-terminal electrode. This voltage value can typically be of the order of 100 to 200V (Volts), or even be zero. This does not therefore result in an insulation problem outside the enclosure.

Dans tous les modes de réalisation ci-avant décrits, on peut déposer la couche anti-reflet soit directement sur la face externe de la paroi de sortie soit par l'intermédiaire d'une lame additionnelle collée sur la face externe de la paroi de sortie par la deuxième colle.In all of the above-described embodiments, the anti-reflection layer can be deposited either directly on the external face of the outlet wall or by means of an additional strip glued to the external face of the outlet wall. with the second glue.

Dans le cas de l'utilisation d'une lame additionnelle, celle-ci peut être en verre ou en matière plastique. Bien entendu, quel que soit le matériau transparent utilisé, on le choisira de façon à avoir un seul milieu d'indice optique entre la couche de luminophore et la couche anti-reflet. Cet indice optique commun au support de la couche de luminophore, aux première et deuxième colles, à la paroi de sortie et éventuellement à la lame additionnelle, est de l'ordre de 1,5.If an additional blade is used, it can be made of glass or plastic. Of course, whatever the transparent material used, it will be chosen so as to have a single medium with an optical index between the phosphor layer and the anti-reflection layer. This optical index common to the support of the phosphor layer, to the first and second adhesives, to the outlet wall and possibly to the additional strip, is of the order of 1.5.

De même, dans tous les modes de réalisation décrits ci-avant, on peut utiliser des moyens décrits spécifiquement pour un seul mode de réalisation mais qui s'avèrent communs à tous. C'est le cas notamment de la paroi de sortie épaisse et/ou des moyens d'attache électriquement isolants ou bien encore de l'utilisation de conducteurs rigides supportant l'électrode terminale.Similarly, in all the embodiments described above, one can use means described specifically for a single embodiment but which prove to be common to all. This is particularly the case for the thick outlet wall and / or electrically insulating attachment means or even the use of rigid conductors supporting the terminal electrode.

Tous les modes de réalisation décrits offrent l'avantage d'une fabrication aisée et moins coûteuse que celle antérieurement effectuée. En effet, l'écran à luminophore, une fois préparé, est collé sur la face interne de la paroi de sortie de l'élément terminal. Ceci est facilité par les faibles dimensions de cet élément terminal. Ce dernier est ensuite assemblé sur l'enceinte avec les moyens de fixation étanches au vide. On évite ainsi le collage de l'écran de sortie dans une enceinte complète au fond d'un puits relativement profond.All the described embodiments offer the advantage easy to manufacture and less expensive than that previously carried out. In fact, the phosphor screen, once prepared, is glued to the internal face of the outlet wall of the terminal element. This is facilitated by the small dimensions of this terminal element. The latter is then assembled on the enclosure with the vacuum-tight fixing means. This prevents sticking of the exit screen in a complete enclosure at the bottom of a relatively deep well.

De plus, lorsqu'une couche anti-reflet doit être déposée, celle-ci l'est avant l'assemblage de l'élément terminal sur le reste de l'enceinte, ce qui évite la manipulation sur une enceinte de grande dimension. Dans le cas de l'utilisation d'une lame additionnelle, l'absence d'enrobage généralisé (figure 3) permet, en cas de rayure de la couche anti-reflet notamment, de retirer la lame additionnelle et de la remettre une fois l'enceinte assemblée.In addition, when an anti-reflection layer must be deposited, it is before the assembly of the terminal element on the rest of the enclosure, which avoids handling on a large enclosure. In the case of the use of an additional blade, the absence of generalized coating (FIG. 3) makes it possible, in the event of scratching of the anti-reflection layer in particular, to remove the additional blade and to put it back once 'assembled enclosure.

Bien entendu, l'invention n'est pas limitée aux modes de réalisation ci-dessus décrits mais en embrasse toutes les autres variantes correspondant aux revendications.Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above but embraces all the other variants corresponding to the claims.

On peut notamment envisager de teinter l'une au moins des lames supportant la couche de luminophore, de la paroi de sortie, et additionnelle. On peut également envisager l'aménagement de plusieurs conduits fins destinés à l'alimentation en tension des moyens de focalisation. On peut enfin envisager d'utiliser pour les matériaux transparents aux divers rayonnements tout matériau compatible avec les conditions de fabrication et d'utilisation du dispositif et possédant la transparence requise.One can in particular consider tinting at least one of the plates supporting the phosphor layer, of the outlet wall, and additional. It is also possible to envisage the arrangement of several fine conduits intended for supplying voltage to the focusing means. Finally, it is possible to envisage using for materials transparent to the various radiations any material compatible with the conditions of manufacture and use of the device and having the required transparency.

Claims (21)

  1. A device for the chromatic conversion of an image obtained in the form of electromagnetic radiation, and more particularly for conversion of ionizing radiation into visible light, comprising a vacuum-tight enclosure (301) having:
    - an entry wall, transparent to the electromagnetic radiation, behind which an entry photoelectric screen is arranged in order to receive the electromagnetic radiation, and
    - means (360, 361) for focussing connected with the enclosure in order to focus the electrons emitted by the entry screen towards the exit screen, and
    - an exit wall (304), transparent to the radiation of the luminophore (350) on the inner surface (340) of which the luminophore exit screen (305) is bonded by means of a first adhesive (308) having an index of refraction identical to that of the exit wall (304), characterized in that this exit wall (304) constitutes part of an end element (310) of the enclosure (301) made integral with the remainder (311) of the enclosure by means of securing means (309) which are vacuum-tight and remote from the plane of the exit image,
    - the said end element being on the one hand manufactured of an electrically insulating material transparent to the radiation of the luminophore and having on the other hand the configuration of a bowl with a substantially plane bottom wall constituting the exit wall, the lateral wall of such bowl widening out away from its bottom wall, a first part of the securing means being arranged in the vicinity of the free end of the lateral wall, whereas a second part of the securing means is arranged in the vicinity of the free end of the said remainder of the enclosure.
  2. The device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the lateral wall of the bowl (310) is frustoconical.
  3. The device as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that the first part of the securing means is a first metallic neck (390) whereas the second part of the securing means is a second metallic neck (391) having a part (393) projecting into the interior of the enclosure (301) when the same is assembled.
  4. The device as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that the focussing means comprise a focusing electrode (361), which is short of the end mounted, on the projecting part (393) of the second metallic neck (391).
  5. The device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the lateral wall of the bowl (810) comprises a first frustoconical portion (310A) connected with the bottom wall (804) followed by a second frustoconical portion (810B) presenting a widening part larger in size than that of the first frustoconical portion (810A).
  6. The device as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that the second frustoconical portion (810B) comprises at least one narrow passage (832) short of the end in order to receive a conductor element, which is short of the end, to supply an electrode of the focussing means with voltage, cooperation between the conductor element (832) and its passage (833) not interfering with the vacuum-tight character of the enclosure.
  7. The device as claimed in any one of the claims 1 through 6, characterized in that the first and the second parts of the securing means are welded together (392) in order to constitute the said securing means (309).
  8. The device as claimed in any one of the claims 1 through 6, characterized in that the securing means are constituted by an adhesive bond (891) connecting the bowl (810) and rendering it integral with the remainder (811) of the enclosure.
  9. The device as claimed in any one of the claims 1 through 8, characterized in that the frustoconical lateral wall of the bowl connected with the bottom wall constitutes at least one narrow end passage (330) in order to receive an end conductor element (331) in order to carry a very high voltage, cooperation between the said other conductor element and its passage not interfering with the vacuum-tight character of the enclosure.
  10. The device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that the focussing means comprise an end electrode (360) supplied by the said end conductor element (331) and secured on it as well.
  11. The device as claimed in any one of the claims 1 through 10, characterized in that the focussing means comprise an end electrode (360) secured to an electrode (361), short of the end, by electrically insulating securing means (363).
  12. The device as claimed in any one of the claims 1 through 11, characterized in that an anti-reflection layer (314, 414) is in optical contact with the external surface (341, 441) of the exit wall.
  13. The device as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that the anti-reflection layer (474) is arranged directly on the external surface (441) of the exit wall.
  14. The device as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that the anti-reflection layer (474) is arranged on a surface of an additional sheet (373) which is transparent to the radiation of the luminophore, said additional sheet having its parallel opposite surface in optical contact with the external surface (341) of the exit wall owing to a second adhesive (372) having the same index of refraction as the first adhesive (308).
  15. The device as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that the additional sheet is manufactured of glass.
  16. The device as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that the additional sheet is manufactured of synthetic resin.
  17. The device as claimed in claim 14 or in claim 15 or in claim 16, characterized in that the additional sheet is colored.
  18. The device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the exit wall (604) has a thickness equal to or greater than 8 mm.
  19. The device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support (351) of the luminophore (350) and/or the exit wall (304) is or are colored.
  20. A method for the manufacture of a device for the chromatic conversion of an image obtained in the form of electromagnetic radiation, and more particularly for conversion of ionizing radiation into visible light, in which method:
    a) a vacuum-tight enclosure is manufactured having
    - an entry wall, transparent to the electromagnetic radiation, behind which an entry photoelectric screen is arranged in order to receive the electromagnetic radiation, and
    - an exit wall and furthermore focussing means connected with the enclosure in order to focus the electrons emitted by the entry screen towards the exit wall,
    b) and an exit luminophore sheet is manufactured which is mounted on the internal surface of the exit wall,
    characterized in that the enclosure is manufactured in the form of two elements of which one end element comprises the exit wall,
    in that, in the b) stage, the luminophore exit sheet is mounted on the internal surface of the exit wall by means of an adhesive having an index of refraction identical to that of the exit wall, and
    the end element is integrally mounted on the remainder of the enclosure by vacuum-tight securing means, said end element being on the one hand manufactured of an electrically insulating material transparent to the radiation of the luminophore and having on the other hand the configuration of a bowl with a wall substantially plane bottom wall constituting the exit wall, the lateral wall of such bowl widening out away from its bottom wall, a first part of the securing means being arranged in the vicinity of the free end of the lateral wall, whereas a second part of the securing means is arranged in the vicinity of the free end of the said remainder of the enclosure.
  21. The method as claimed in claim 20, characterized in that an anti-reflection layer is arranged in optical contact with the external surface of the exit wall prior to integrally securing the end element to the remainder of the enclosure.
EP89400763A 1988-03-22 1989-03-17 Electromagnetic image chromatic conversion device, and process for its manufacture Expired - Lifetime EP0334734B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8803684 1988-03-22
FR8803684A FR2629267B1 (en) 1988-03-22 1988-03-22 DEVICE FOR CHROMATICALLY CONVERTING AN IMAGE OBTAINED IN ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF

Publications (2)

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EP0334734A1 EP0334734A1 (en) 1989-09-27
EP0334734B1 true EP0334734B1 (en) 1993-09-01

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EP89400763A Expired - Lifetime EP0334734B1 (en) 1988-03-22 1989-03-17 Electromagnetic image chromatic conversion device, and process for its manufacture

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US (1) US5028842A (en)
EP (1) EP0334734B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2754491B2 (en)
DE (1) DE68908746T2 (en)
FR (1) FR2629267B1 (en)

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JPH0388254U (en) * 1989-12-26 1991-09-10
EP0445324A1 (en) * 1990-03-06 1991-09-11 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft X-ray image intensifier with an electrode system
FR2681727B1 (en) * 1991-09-20 1993-11-05 Thomson Tubes Electroniques IMAGE INTENSIFIER TUBE WITH BRIGHTNESS CORRECTION.
DE59204942D1 (en) * 1992-06-22 1996-02-15 Siemens Ag Image intensifier with image sensor
JP2001325898A (en) * 2000-05-15 2001-11-22 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Glass bulb for cathode-ray tube and cathode-ray device
CN104979148B (en) * 2014-04-09 2017-01-25 北方夜视技术股份有限公司 Method of improving output brightness uniformity of low light level image intensifier

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3280356A (en) * 1958-07-17 1966-10-18 Rca Corp Image tube with truncated conical anode and a plurality of coaxial shield electrodes
GB1198597A (en) * 1968-03-14 1970-07-15 Siemens Ag Improvements in or relating to Screens Capable of Fluorescing.
DE2049127C3 (en) * 1970-10-07 1975-04-17 Siemens Ag, 1000 Berlin Und 8000 Muenchen Image intensifier
US4087683A (en) * 1975-08-29 1978-05-02 Licentia Patent-Verwaltungs-G.M.B.H. Image intensifying device
US4423351A (en) * 1980-05-06 1983-12-27 Tokyo Shibaura Denki Kabushiki Kaisha Vacuum container of radiation image multiplier tube and method of manufacturing the same
JPS5773853U (en) * 1980-10-22 1982-05-07
JPS6142842A (en) * 1984-08-06 1986-03-01 Nec Corp Image tube
DE3429561A1 (en) * 1984-08-10 1986-02-20 Siemens AG, 1000 Berlin und 8000 München ELECTRONIC VACUUM IMAGE AMPLIFIER FOR DEVICE FOR DIAGNOSTICS WITH X-RAY RAYS
EP0187258B1 (en) * 1984-12-10 1989-04-26 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft X-ray image intensifier
NL8602212A (en) * 1986-09-02 1988-04-05 Philips Nv MODULAR BUILT-IN ROENTG IMAGE AMPLIFIER TUBE.

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Publication number Publication date
DE68908746D1 (en) 1993-10-07
FR2629267A1 (en) 1989-09-29
FR2629267B1 (en) 1996-01-26
US5028842A (en) 1991-07-02
JP2754491B2 (en) 1998-05-20
EP0334734A1 (en) 1989-09-27
DE68908746T2 (en) 1993-12-16
JPH01267938A (en) 1989-10-25

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