JP2009187947A - X-ray tube, and x-ray tube cooling system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent thermal stress deformation of a window of an X-ray tube by supporting dissipation of heat generated while the X-ray tube is running. <P>SOLUTION: An X-ray tube cooling system includes a housing, a window frame attached to the housing, and a window attached to the window frame. The housing partitions and forms electron gaps through which electrons can pass from a cathode to an anode. The housing also partitions and forms a first inlet port and a first outlet port. The window frame partitions and forms an X-ray opening through which X-rays can pass. The window covers the X-ray opening. The housing and the window frame are configured so as a liquid can flow from the first inlet port to the first outlet port through either a first liquid path at least partially partitioned and formed by the housing or a second liquid path cooperatively partitioned and formed by the housing and the window frame. The second liquid path is disposed at least a part of a periphery of the X-ray opening. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a system and method for cooling an x-ray tube.

  The X-ray tube generally uses an X-ray transmission window formed in a vacuum enclosure of the X-ray tube. The X-ray transmission window causes X-rays generated in the X-ray tube to be emitted from the housing and emitted into the target target. The window is typically placed in the mounting structure and is located on the side or end of the x-ray tube. The window isolates the vacuum in the x-ray tube enclosure from the normal atmospheric pressure found outside the x-ray tube or from the pressure of the liquid coolant in which the x-ray tube is immersed.

  Although the window thickness varies depending on the particular x-ray tube application, the window is generally very thin. Particularly thin windows are generally desirable because they minimize the x-ray dose absorbed by the window material during operation of the x-ray tube.

US Pat. No. 6,519,318 US Pat. No. 5,511,104 US Pat. No. 6,005,918 US Pat. No. 6,215,852 US Pat. No. 6,263,046 US Pat. No. 6,438,208 US Pat. No. 6,457,859 US Pat. No. 6,529,579 US Pat. No. 6,594,341 US Pat. No. 6,714,626 US Pat. No. 7,042,981 US Pat. No. 7,260,181

  Thinner windows are desired, but thin windows are typically subjected to deformation stresses during operation of the x-ray tube. In X-ray tubes for modern high-performance X-ray systems, one of the major challenges of development is to provide design characteristics that adapt to the high heat generated. In order to generate X-rays, a relatively large amount of electrical energy must be transferred to the X-ray tube. Since the majority of electrical energy is converted to heat, only a small amount of electrical energy transferred to the X-ray tube is converted to X-rays. If excessive heat is generated in the x-ray tube, the temperature can rise above a critical value and the windows of the x-ray tube can be subjected to heat-induced deformation stresses. Such heat-induced deformation stresses are unevenly distributed over the surface of the window, which can cause cracks in the window. There is also a risk of liquid leakage between the window and the mounting structure.

  The portion of the window that is often deformed during operation of the X-ray tube due to relatively high heat is the portion that is coupled to the mounting structure. Due to the deformation of the window, cracking of the window may occur and indirect loss of vacuum from the X-ray tube housing may occur, and as a result, the operating life of the X-ray tube may be limited.

In addition to an increased risk of cracks in the window, the heat generated during operation of the X-ray tube may cause boiling of the second liquid coolant in which the X-ray tube is immersed, and the first contact with the window directly. The liquid coolant may boil. The boiling of these liquid coolants can cause harmful attenuation of X-rays when they pass through the boiling liquid in the process to the target target. This harmful attenuation of X-rays can cause defects in the resulting target X-ray image. The defect may cause misdiagnosis of the affected part, for example, X-ray radiation.

  In general, example embodiments of the invention relate to a system and method for cooling an x-ray tube. The embodiments disclosed herein can help dissipate heat generated during x-ray tube operation, thus providing a cooling effect on various elements of the x-ray tube, thereby reducing heat-induced deformation stress. Is possible. Other advantages can also be realized. For example, the disclosed embodiments help to mitigate boiling of the second liquid coolant in which the x-ray tube is placed, and to mitigate boiling of the first liquid coolant that is in direct contact with the elements of the x-ray tube. Is possible, thereby reducing the attenuation of X-rays passing through the liquid coolant.

  In one embodiment, the x-ray tube includes a housing, a window frame attached to the housing, and a window attached to the window frame. The housing includes an electron gap, which is a gap through which electrons can pass from the cathode to the anode. The housing also includes a first inlet port and a first outlet port. The window frame defines an X-ray opening which is an opening through which X-rays can pass. The window covers the X-ray opening. The housing and the window frame pass through either the first liquid path that is at least partially defined by the housing or the second liquid path that is cooperatively defined by the housing and the window frame, and the first liquid cooling. An agent is configured to flow from the first inlet port to the first outlet port. The second liquid path is disposed around at least a part of the X-ray opening.

  In another embodiment, the x-ray tube includes a housing, a window frame attached to the housing, and a window attached to the window frame. The housing includes a first inlet port and a first outlet port. The window frame defines an X-ray opening through which X-rays can pass. The window covers the X-ray opening. The X-ray tube is divided at least partially by the housing, and is divided by the first divided liquid passage, the third divided liquid passage, and the fourth divided liquid passage, and the housing and the window frame. Including liquid passages. The second divided liquid passage is disposed around at least a part of the X-ray opening. The first portion of the first liquid coolant does not flow through the third divided liquid passage, and is defined by the first divided liquid passage, the second divided liquid passage, and the fourth divided liquid passage. The liquid can flow from the first inlet port to the first outlet port through the liquid passage. The second part of the first liquid coolant does not flow through the second divided liquid path, and is defined by the first divided liquid path, the third divided liquid path, and the fourth divided liquid path. The liquid can flow from the first inlet port to the first outlet port through the liquid passage.

In yet another embodiment, the x-ray tube includes a can, a liquid manifold attached to the can, a shield structure attached to the can, a window frame attached to the can, and a window attached to the window frame. The liquid manifold defines a first inlet port and a first outlet port. The shield structure defines an electron gap, which is a gap that allows electrons to pass from the electron source to the target anode. The window frame defines an X-ray opening through which X-rays can pass. The window covers the X-ray opening defined by the window frame. The X-ray tube also includes a first divided liquid path, a second divided liquid path, a third divided liquid path, and a fourth divided liquid path. The first divided liquid channel is partitioned and formed by a liquid manifold, a can, and a shield structure. The second divided liquid passage is partitioned and formed by cooperation of the can and the window frame, and is arranged around at least a part of the X-ray opening of the window frame. The third divided liquid passage is partitioned by the can and the shield structure in cooperation. The fourth divided liquid passage is partitioned by the can, the shield structure, and the liquid manifold. The first portion of the first liquid coolant does not flow through the third divided liquid passage, and is defined by the first divided liquid passage, the second divided liquid passage, and the fourth divided liquid passage. The liquid can flow from the first inlet port to the first outlet port through the liquid passage. The second part of the first liquid coolant does not flow through the second divided liquid path, and is defined by the first divided liquid path, the third divided liquid path, and the fourth divided liquid path. The liquid can flow from the first inlet port to the first outlet port through the liquid passage.

  These and other features of example embodiments of the invention will be fully apparent from the following description and the appended claims.

1 is a plan view of an X-ray tube cooling system including an X-ray tube, a reservoir, and a cooling device. The perspective view of the X-ray tube of FIG. 1 provided with a window frame and a window. FIG. 2B is a partial side sectional view of the X-ray tube of FIG. 2A. FIG. 2B is a partial perspective view of the X-ray tube of FIG. 2A. FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional perspective view of the X-ray tube of FIG. 2A. FIG. 2B is another cross-sectional perspective view of the X-ray tube of FIG. 2A. The bottom perspective view of the window frame of the X-ray tube of FIG. 2A. The 1st liquid coolant can flow through the X-ray tube of Drawing 2A. The top view of the window frame of FIG. 2F. The bottom view of the window frame of FIG. 2F. FIG. 3B is a side sectional view of the window frame of FIG. 3B. The top view of the window of FIG. 2A. FIG. 3D is a plan view of the window of FIG. 3D attached to the window frame of FIG. 3A. FIG. 3E is a side cross-sectional view of the window and window frame of FIG. 3E.

  In order to further clarify the above features and other features of example embodiments of the present invention, a more specific description of these examples is provided by reference to the specific embodiments disclosed in the accompanying drawings. To do. Of course, these drawings are merely illustrative of embodiments of the present invention and should not be considered as limiting the scope thereof. It should also be understood that the drawings are diagrammatic and schematic representations of embodiments of the invention, but are not intended to limit the invention and are not necessarily drawn to scale. Embodiments of the present invention are disclosed and will be described more specifically and in detail by using the accompanying drawings.

  In general, embodiments of the present invention are directed to an x-ray tube cooling system. The x-ray tube cooling system disclosed herein can be used to dissipate heat generated during operation of the x-ray tube. Accordingly, the heat-induced deformation stress on the cooling element of the X-ray tube is reduced, and the second liquid coolant in which the X-ray tube is immersed and the boiling of the first liquid coolant in direct contact with the cooling element of the X-ray tube Reducing the attenuation of X-rays passing through these liquid coolants.

(Example of X-ray tube cooling system)
Referring first to FIG. 1, an embodiment of an x-ray tube cooling system 100 is disclosed. The x-ray tube cooling system 100 generally includes an embodiment of each of the x-ray tube 102, the reservoir 104, and the cooling device 106.

In general, the x-ray tube 102 includes a housing constituted by a can 108, a liquid manifold 110 attached to the can 108, a shield structure 112 attached to the can 108, and a cathode cylinder 114 attached to the can 108. The liquid manifold 110 includes a first inlet port 116 and a first outlet port 118. The shield structure 112 is similar in form and function to the shield structure (108) disclosed in US Pat. The entire disclosure of Patent Document 1 is incorporated herein by reference. The X-ray tube 102 also includes a window frame 200 attached to the can 108 and a window 250 attached to the window frame 200.

  The reservoir 104 includes a sidewall 120 that surrounds the x-ray tube 102 such that the x-ray tube 102 is installed within the reservoir 104. The sidewall 120 also cooperates with the cathode cylinder 114 of the X-ray tube 102 to hold a second liquid coolant 122 that surrounds the X-ray tube 102. The second liquid coolant 122 can be circulated into and out of the reservoir 104 (not shown) in order to dissipate heat generated during operation of the X-ray tube 102. In one embodiment, the second liquid coolant 122 can be a dielectric liquid coolant. Dielectric liquids include, but are not limited to, fluorocarbon or silicon-based oil, or deionized water. Further, the sidewall 120 defines a second inlet port 124 and a second outlet port 126, the characteristics of which are discussed below in conjunction with the cooling device 106.

  The cooling device 106 includes a third outlet port 128 and a third inlet port 130. The cooling device 106 cools the first liquid coolant (not shown; the first liquid coolant is isolated from the second liquid coolant 122) received at the third inlet port 130 and the cooled first liquid coolant. A liquid coolant is configured to circulate to the third outlet port 128.

  The operation of the X-ray tube cooling system 100 will now be disclosed in conjunction with FIG. The X-ray tube 102 is installed inside the reservoir 104, and the cooling device 106 is installed outside the reservoir 104. X-ray tube 102, reservoir 104, and cooling device 106 are all interconnected via a series of third hose 132, first hose 134, second hose 136, and fourth hose 138. In particular, the third outlet port 128 of the cooling device 106 is connected to the second inlet port 124 of the reservoir 104 via a third hose 132. The second inlet port 124 is connected to the first inlet port 116 of the X-ray tube 102 via the first hose 134. The first outlet port 118 of the X-ray tube 102 is connected to the second outlet port 126 of the reservoir 104 via a second hose 136. The second outlet port 126 is connected to the third inlet port 130 of the cooling device 106 via a fourth hose 138.

  In another embodiment, the first hose 134 combined with other hoses (not shown), if possible, may be configured so that the first liquid coolant is first before the first liquid coolant enters the first inlet port 116. After passing through the two inlet ports 124, the first liquid coolant may be allowed to circulate through another portion of the x-ray tube 102. Similarly, the second hose 136 combined with another hose (not shown), if possible, allows the first liquid coolant to pass through the first outlet port before the first liquid coolant has passed through the second outlet port 126. After exiting 118, the first liquid coolant may be allowed to circulate through yet another portion of the x-ray tube 102. For example, the first outlet port 118 of the X-ray tube 102 allows the first liquid coolant to circulate through another portion of the X-ray tube 102 and from the first preliminary outlet port 119 (see FIG. 2B) to the X-ray tube 102. Can be connected to the first auxiliary inlet port 117 (see FIG. 2A) via another hose (not shown). The second hose 136 can be connected between the first preliminary outlet port 119 and the second outlet port 126 to allow the first liquid coolant to flow back to the cooling device 106 in this embodiment.

Accordingly, the first hose 134, the second hose 136, the third hose 132, and the fourth hose 138 are not mixed with the second liquid coolant 122 held by the reservoir 104, and the cooling device 106 and the X-ray tube. The first liquid coolant is allowed to circulate between 102. Accordingly, the first liquid coolant circulating through the first hose 134, the second hose 136, the third hose 132, and the fourth hose 138 and the second liquid coolant 122 in the reservoir 104 are different types. Liquid coolant. For example, the first liquid coolant that circulates through the first hose 134, the second hose 136, the third hose 132, and the fourth hose 138 can be a non-dielectric liquid coolant and the second liquid. The coolant 122 can be a dielectric coolant. In this embodiment, the non-dielectric liquid coolant may be a non-dielectric liquid because it is electrically insulated from the electrically sensitive portion of the x-ray tube 102. In another embodiment, both the first liquid coolant circulating through the first hose 134, the second hose 136, the third hose 132, and the fourth hose 138 and the second liquid coolant 122 are dielectric. Although it can be a coolant, it can be a different type of dielectric coolant. Examples of non-dielectric liquids include, without limitation, water, propylene glycol, or some combination thereof. Examples of dielectric liquids include, but are not limited to, fluorocarbons, silicone oils, or deionized water. In one embodiment, the first hose 134, the second hose 136, the third hose 132, and the fourth hose 138 may be rubber hoses capable of maintaining a hose pressure of approximately 206.84 kPa (30 psi), but other hose pressures. It is possible to use hoses of other materials that can maintain For example, the third hose 132 and the first hose 134 can maintain a hose pressure of about 152.53 kPa (22.5 psi), and the second hose 136 and the fourth hose 138 can be about 113.76 kPa (16.5 psi). The hose pressure can be maintained. In one embodiment, the first hose 134, the second hose 136, the third hose 132, and the fourth hose 138 may be attached to corresponding ports using a hose clamp, although any other suitable device or attachment It is possible to use a method.

  In operation, the relatively low temperature first liquid coolant can flow from the cooling device 106 to the X-ray tube 102 through the third hose 132 and the first hose 134. The first liquid coolant then circulates through the X-ray tube 102, but the temperature of the first liquid coolant rises as the heat generated by the X-ray tube 102 moves to the first liquid coolant. The relatively hot first liquid coolant can then flow back to the cooling device 106 through the second hose 136 and the fourth hose 138, but the temperature of the first liquid coolant passes through the x-ray tube cooling system 100. Decreases in preparation for recirculation. Since the cooling device 106 is installed outside the reservoir 104, a relatively cool first liquid coolant can be circulated in the X-ray tube 102 without the need for a separate cooling device inside the reservoir 104. A warm first liquid coolant can circulate out of the x-ray tube 102. Note that if the cooling device is attached to either the X-ray tube 102 or the reservoir 104 and accommodated inside the reservoir 104, the cost and complexity of the X-ray tube cooling system 100 may increase.

(X-ray tube)
2A and 2B together, yet another feature of the X-ray tube 102 is disclosed. The can 108, the shield structure 112, the cathode cylinder 114, the window frame 200, and the window 250 cooperate to define at least a portion of the vacuum enclosure 142 that surrounds the cathode 144 and the rotating anode 146. Prior to operation of the x-ray tube 102, the vacuum enclosure 142 is evacuated to create a vacuum. During operation of the X-ray tube 102, electrons emitted from the cathode 144 collide with the rotating anode 146. By colliding with the rotating anode 146, some of the electrons are converted into X-rays directed toward the window 250. Since the window 250 is made of an X-ray transmissive material, these X-rays can escape from the vacuum enclosure 142 through the window 250 and hit the target target (not shown). A line image (not shown) can be generated. Accordingly, the window 250 seals the vacuum of the vacuum enclosure 142 of the X-ray tube 102 from the pressure derived from the second liquid coolant 122 (see FIG. 1) in which the X-ray tube 102 is immersed. Moreover, the window 250 allows X-rays generated by the rotating anode 146 to exit the X-ray tube 102, pass through the second liquid coolant 122, and exit the reservoir 104 through a corresponding window (not shown) in the side wall 120. Be able to go.

  Although the X-ray tube 102 is shown as a rotating anode X-ray tube, embodiments of the X-ray tube cooling system 100 disclosed herein apply to any type of X-ray tube that uses an X-ray transmissive window. Is possible. Accordingly, the X-ray tube cooling system 100 disclosed herein is applicable to other, for example, fixed anode X-ray tubes.

Referring now to FIGS. 2C-2G, further features relating to the operation of the x-ray tube 102 are disclosed. As disclosed in FIGS. 2C and 2D, the first liquid coolant (not shown) is received through the first inlet port 116 of the liquid manifold 110 during operation of the X-ray tube 102. The liquid coolant first flows into a first divided liquid path 148 that is cooperatively defined by the liquid manifold 110, the can 108, and the shield structure 112. The first divided liquid path 148 generally extends radially around the shield structure 112. Next, referring to FIGS. 2D to 2F, the first liquid coolant from the first divided liquid path 148 is in the second divided liquid path 150 formed cooperatively by the can 108 and the window frame 200, or the can 108. It is possible to flow into any one of the third divided liquid passages 152 formed cooperatively by the shield structure 112.

  As disclosed in FIG. 2F, the window frame 200 defines an X-ray opening 202 as an opening through which X-rays can pass. As disclosed in FIGS. 2D to 2F, the second divided liquid channel 150 is disposed around at least a part of the X-ray opening 202. In particular, the second divided liquid path 150 includes an inlet 154 and an outlet 156. As disclosed in FIG. 2E, the first liquid coolant is contained in the second divided liquid path 150 within a fourth divided liquid path 158 that is cooperatively partitioned by the can 108, the shield structure 112, and the liquid manifold 110. Alternatively, it can flow through any of the third divided liquid paths 152. The first liquid coolant can then exit the x-ray tube 102 through the first outlet port 118.

  As disclosed in FIG. 2G, the first liquid coolant can flow from the first inlet port 116 through one of the first liquid path 160 and the second liquid path 162 to the first outlet port 118. is there. The first liquid path 160 is defined by the first divided liquid path 148, the second divided liquid path 150, and the fourth divided liquid path 158. The second liquid path 162 is partitioned by the first divided liquid path 148, the third divided liquid path 152, and the fourth divided liquid path 158. That is, a part of the first liquid coolant flowing between the first inlet port 116 and the first outlet port 118 does not flow through the third divided liquid path 152 but flows through the first liquid path 160. Is possible. Another portion of the first liquid coolant flowing between the first inlet port 116 and the first outlet port 118 does not flow through the second divided liquid path 150 but flows through the second liquid path 162. Is possible.

  In some embodiments, the first fluid path 160 and the second fluid path 162 are sized such that a pressure gradient exists when the first liquid coolant flows from the first inlet port 116 to the first outlet port 118. And is configured. For example, the pressure gradient between the first inlet port 116 and the first outlet port 118 can be about 41.367 kPa (6 psi), but other pressure gradients greater than 0 kPa (0 psi) It can be used depending on the performance requirements of the tube 102.

  Further, in some embodiments, the first fluid path 160 and the second fluid path 162 allow a relatively high volume / minute flow rate of the first liquid coolant between the first inlet port 116 and the first outlet port 118. It can be sized and configured to flow. For example, a first liquid coolant of about 15.899 liters (4.2 gallons) / minute can flow between the first inlet port 116 and the first outlet port 118, but other flow rates of the first liquid cooling. Agents can be used depending on the performance requirements of the X-ray tube 102.

Moreover, in some embodiments, the first fluid path 160 and the second fluid path 162 are about 90% to about 98% when the first liquid coolant flows between the first inlet port 116 and the first outlet port 118. Of the first liquid coolant flows through the first liquid path 160 and about 2% to about 10% of the first liquid coolant flows through the second liquid path 162. For example, about 93% to about 98% of the liquid can flow through the first liquid path 160, and about 2% to about 7% of the first liquid coolant can flow through the second liquid path 162. . In another embodiment, about 94% to about 97% of the first liquid coolant can flow through the first liquid path 160, and about 3% to about 6% of the first liquid coolant is the second liquid. It can be distributed through the path 162. In yet another embodiment, about 95.5% of the first liquid coolant can flow through the first liquid path 160 and about 4.5% of the first liquid coolant flows through the second liquid path 162. It can be distributed through. The relative proportion of the first liquid coolant flowing through the first liquid path 160 or the second liquid path 162 is based on the need to dissipate the heat of the shield structure 112 on the one hand and the window frame 200 and the window 250 on the other hand. Depending, it can be adjusted during the design of the X-ray tube 102. For example, if the x-ray aperture 202 is relatively large, the need to dissipate heat in the window 250 may be greater than if the x-ray aperture 202 is relatively small.

In some embodiments, the inlet 154 and the outlet 156 of the second split liquid passage 150 can be installed close to each other in one split liquid passage. For example, the window frame 200 can be configured such that both the inlet 154 and the outlet 156 are installed near the first outlet port 118 in the fourth divided liquid path 158. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the first liquid coolant entering through the first inlet port 116 is passed through the first split liquid path 148, the second split liquid path before exiting through the first outlet port 118. 150, the third divided liquid path 152, and the fourth divided liquid path 158 can be circulated through all. (Example of window frame and window)
With reference now to FIGS. 3A-3F, yet another feature of window frame 200 and window 250 is disclosed. As disclosed in FIG. 3A, the outer periphery of the window frame 200 is generally formed in a rectangular shape, but the outer periphery may have various other shapes. In one embodiment, the window frame 200 is about 5.21 mm (0.205 inches) thick, but the window frame 200 is separately greater than about 5.21 mm (0.205 inches) thick, Or it can be small. Window frame 200 may be formed from a variety of materials including, but not limited to, copper or copper alloys.

  As disclosed in FIG. 3A, the window frame 200 defines an X-ray opening 202. The X-ray aperture 202 is generally sized and configured to allow X-rays to pass through. Although the outer periphery of the X-ray opening 202 is generally formed in a rectangular shape, the outer periphery may have various other shapes. In one embodiment, the X-ray aperture 202 is about 2.700 inches in length and about 0.740 inches in width, but the X-ray aperture 202 is separately long. Can be larger or smaller than at least one of about 68.6 mm (2.700 inches) and about 18.8 mm (0.740 inches) wide. The window frame 200 may also include a recess 204 to which the window 250 can be coupled (see FIG. 3E) as described below.

  As disclosed in FIGS. 3B and 3C, the window frame 200 further defines a liquid channel 206. The liquid channel 206 is generally disposed around a portion of the x-ray opening 202, but the liquid channel 206 is around a larger or smaller portion of the x-ray opening 202 than otherwise disclosed in FIG. 3B. Can be arranged. For example, the liquid channel 206 may be placed everywhere around the x-ray opening 202 to completely enclose the x-ray opening 202 separately. In one embodiment, the liquid channel 206 has a width of about 4.62 mm (0.182 inches), but the liquid channel 206 is separately greater than about 4.62 mm (0.182 inches), or Can be smaller. Further, as disclosed elsewhere herein, the outer shape, position, size, and orientation of the liquid channel 206 may be varied from the configurations disclosed in FIGS. 3B and 3C. The liquid channel 206 may be achieved by one or more additional liquid channels, as further disclosed elsewhere herein.

  As disclosed elsewhere herein, the second split liquid passage 150 includes at least one of an inlet 154 and an outlet 156 and yet another inlet and outlet. Further, the size, location, and orientation of at least one of the inlet 154 and the outlet 156 can be varied from that disclosed in FIG. 3B. For example, at least one of the inlet 154 and the outlet 156 may extend to the edge of the window frame 200 instead of being defined by the window frame 200. At least one of the inlet 154 and the outlet 156 further allows at least one of the inlet 154 and the outlet 156 to be coupled to elements of the x-ray tube cooling system 100 disclosed herein, for example, can 108. Still other structures (not shown) may be included, such as split liquid channels (see FIGS. 2D and 2E) that are defined in other X-ray tube structures.

  FIG. 3D is a plan view of the window 250. The outer periphery of the window 250 is generally formed in a rectangular shape, but the outer periphery may have various other shapes. In one embodiment, window 250 is approximately 0.188 inches thick, although window 250 is separately larger or smaller than approximately 0.188 inches thick. Can be. The window 250 can be generally formed from any x-ray transmissive material that can also maintain a vacuum in a vacuum enclosure, such as the vacuum enclosure 142 of the x-ray tube 102 disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the window 250 may be formed from at least one of beryllium, titanium, nickel, carbon, silicon, or aluminum.

  3E and 3F disclose a window 250 that is attached to the window frame 200. As disclosed in FIG. 3E, the window 250 covers the X-ray opening 202 (see FIG. 3A) defined by the window frame 200. The bottom surface 252 of the window 250 (see FIG. 3F) can be coupled to the window frame 200 in a variety of ways, including gluing, brazing, and mechanical clamping.

  In some embodiments, the portion of the window frame 200 to which the window 250 is coupled may be slightly recessed such that the tip of the window 250 extends slightly above the top surface of the window frame 200 (eg, FIG. 3A). (See recess 204). Alternatively, the window frame 200 can be recessed more extensively so that the tip of the window 250 is flush with the top surface of the window frame 200 or even recessed below the top surface of the window frame 200.

  As disclosed in FIGS. 2E and 2F, the second divided liquid path 150 is configured such that when the first liquid coolant is present in the second divided liquid path 150, the first liquid coolant is transferred to the window frame 200 and the can 108. Positioned, sized, and configured to be in direct contact. Therefore, the window frame 200 and the can 108 can directly dissipate heat in the window frame 200 and the can 108 that are generated during operation of the X-ray tube by directly contacting the first liquid coolant. Also, based on the fact that the window 250 is coupled to the window frame 200, when the first liquid coolant is present in the second divided liquid path 150, the window 250 transfers heat to the first liquid coolant. Therefore, the heat transfer between the window 250 and the first liquid coolant by the window frame 200 can dissipate heat in the window 250 generated during operation of the X-ray tube 102. Accordingly, the first liquid coolant in the second divided liquid passage 150 affects the window frame 200, the can 108, the coupling between the window frame 200 and the can 108, the window 250, and the coupling between the window 250 and the window frame 200. A cooling action can be provided, thereby reducing heat-induced deformation stress.

  The example embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied in other special forms. Accordingly, the example embodiments disclosed herein are not limiting in all respects and are to be considered merely as examples.

Claims (20)

An X-ray tube comprising a housing, a window frame, and a window,
The housing has an electron gap, which is a gap through which electrons can pass from the cathode to the anode, the housing defining a first inlet port and a first outlet port;
The window frame is attached to the housing, and the window frame defines an X-ray opening that is an opening through which X-rays can pass.
The window is attached to the window frame so as to cover the X-ray opening,
The housing and the window frame are configured such that the first liquid coolant can flow from the first inlet port to the first outlet port by either the first liquid path or the second liquid path.
The first fluid path is at least partially defined by the housing;
The X-ray tube according to claim 1, wherein the second liquid path is partitioned and formed in cooperation with the housing and the window frame, and the second liquid path is arranged around at least a part of the X-ray opening.   The X-ray tube according to claim 1, wherein the window frame includes copper.   The first liquid path and the second liquid path are sized and configured such that a pressure gradient exists when the first liquid coolant flows from the first inlet port to the first outlet port. The X-ray tube cooling system according to claim 1. The first liquid path and the second liquid path are:
When the first liquid coolant flows between the first inlet port and the first outlet port;
About 80% to about 99% of the first liquid coolant flows through the first liquid path;
The x-ray tube cooling system of claim 1, wherein the x-ray tube cooling system is sized and configured to allow about 1% to about 20% of the first liquid coolant to flow through the second liquid path. An X-ray tube cooling system for cooling the X-ray tube according to claim 1, wherein the X-ray tube cooling system includes:
A reservoir configured to hold a second liquid coolant, the reservoir defining a second inlet port and a second outlet port;
The X-ray tube is installed in the reservoir and is configured to be surrounded by the second liquid coolant;
A first hose connecting the second inlet port to the first inlet port;
An X-ray tube cooling system comprising: a second hose connecting the second outlet port to the first outlet port. The X-ray tube cooling system further includes:
A cooling device installed outside the reservoir, wherein the cooling device defines a third inlet port and a third outlet port, the cooling device cools the first liquid coolant, and Configured to circulate a first liquid coolant from the third inlet port to the third outlet port;
A third hose connecting the third outlet port to the second inlet port;
The X-ray tube cooling system according to claim 5, further comprising a fourth hose connecting the third inlet port to the second outlet port.   The first liquid path and the second liquid path are sized and configured such that a pressure gradient exists when the first liquid coolant flows from the first inlet port to the first outlet port. The X-ray tube cooling system according to claim 6. The pressure gradient between the first inlet port and the first outlet port is about 41.369 kPa (
8. The x-ray tube cooling system of claim 7, wherein the system is 6 psi).   The first liquid passage and the second liquid passage are approximately 15.899 liters (4.2 gallons / min) of the first liquid coolant flowing between the first inlet port and the first outlet port. The x-ray tube cooling system of claim 6, wherein the x-ray tube cooling system is sized and configured. The first liquid path and the second liquid path are when the first liquid coolant flows between the first inlet port and the first outlet port,
About 90% to about 98% of the first liquid coolant flows through the first liquid path;
The x-ray tube cooling system of claim 6, wherein about 2% to about 10% of the first liquid coolant is sized and configured to flow through the second liquid path. The first liquid coolant comprises a non-dielectric liquid;
The x-ray tube cooling system of claim 6, wherein the second liquid coolant includes a dielectric liquid. The first liquid coolant comprises a dielectric liquid;
The x-ray tube cooling system of claim 6, wherein the second liquid coolant includes a dielectric liquid. An X-ray tube, wherein the X-ray tube is
A housing defining a first inlet port and a first outlet port;
A window frame attached to the housing, wherein the window frame defines an X-ray opening which is an opening through which X-rays can pass;
A window attached to the window frame so as to cover the X-ray opening;
A first divided liquid path, a third divided liquid path, and a fourth divided liquid path that are at least partially partitioned by the housing;
A second divided liquid passage formed cooperatively by the housing and the window frame, wherein the second divided liquid passage is disposed around at least a part of the X-ray opening;
The first liquid coolant of the first portion does not flow through the third divided liquid path, but is partitioned by the first divided liquid path, the second divided liquid path, and the fourth divided liquid path. Circulates from the first inlet port to the first outlet port through a liquid path;
The second liquid coolant in the second part does not flow through the second divided liquid passage, and is defined by the first divided liquid passage, the third divided liquid passage, and the fourth divided liquid passage. An X-ray tube capable of flowing through the liquid path from the first inlet port to the first outlet port. An X-ray tube cooling system for cooling an X-ray tube according to claim 13, wherein the X-ray tube cooling system comprises:
A reservoir configured to hold a second liquid coolant, the reservoir defining a second inlet port and a second outlet port;
The X-ray tube is installed in the reservoir and is configured to be surrounded by the second liquid coolant;
A first hose connecting the second inlet port to the first inlet port;
A second hose connecting the second outlet port to the first outlet port;
A cooling device installed outside the reservoir, wherein the cooling device defines a third inlet port and a third outlet port, the cooling device cools the first liquid coolant, and Configured to circulate the first liquid coolant from a third inlet port to the third outlet port;
A third hose connecting the third outlet port to the second inlet port;
An X-ray tube cooling system comprising: a fourth hose connecting the third inlet port to the second outlet port.   The first liquid path and the second liquid path are sized and configured such that a pressure gradient exists when the first liquid coolant flows from the first inlet port to the first outlet port. Item 15. The X-ray tube cooling system according to Item 14. The first liquid path and the second liquid path are:
When the first liquid coolant flows between the first inlet port and the first outlet port;
About 93% to about 98% of the first liquid coolant flows through the first liquid path;
The x-ray tube cooling system of claim 14, wherein the x-ray tube cooling system is sized and configured to flow between about 2% and about 7% of the first liquid coolant through the second liquid path. An X-ray tube, wherein the X-ray tube is
Cans,
A liquid manifold attached to the can, the liquid manifold defining a first inlet port and a first outlet port;
A shield structure attached to the can, the shield structure defining an electron gap, which is a gap that allows electrons to pass from the electron source toward the target anode;
A window frame attached to the can, wherein the window frame defines an X-ray opening which is an opening through which X-rays can pass;
A window attached to the window frame so as to cover the X-ray opening;
A first divided liquid passage formed in cooperation by the liquid manifold, the can, and the shield structure;
A second divided liquid passage formed in cooperation with the can and the window frame, wherein the second divided liquid passage is disposed around at least a portion of the X-ray opening;
A third divided liquid passage formed in cooperation with the can and the shield structure;
A fourth divided liquid passage formed in cooperation with the can, the shield structure, and the liquid manifold;
The first liquid coolant of the first portion does not flow through the third divided liquid path, but is partitioned by the first divided liquid path, the second divided liquid path, and the fourth divided liquid path. Circulates from the first inlet port to the first outlet port through a liquid path;
The first liquid coolant of the second portion is partitioned by the first divided liquid path, the third divided liquid path, and the fourth divided liquid path without flowing through the second divided liquid path. An X-ray tube capable of flowing from the first inlet port to the first outlet port through two liquid passages. An X-ray tube cooling system for cooling an X-ray tube according to claim 17, wherein the X-ray tube cooling system comprises:
A reservoir configured to hold a second liquid, the reservoir defining a second inlet port and a second outlet port;
The X-ray tube is installed in the reservoir and is configured to be surrounded by the second liquid;
A first hose connecting the second inlet port to the first inlet port;
A second hose connecting the second outlet port to the first outlet port;
A cooling device installed outside the reservoir, wherein the cooling device defines a third inlet port and a third outlet port, the cooling device cools the first liquid coolant, and Configured to circulate the first liquid coolant from three inlet ports to the third outlet port;
A third hose connecting the third outlet port to the second inlet port;
An X-ray tube cooling system comprising: a fourth hose connecting the third inlet port to the second outlet port.   The first liquid path and the second liquid path are sized and configured such that a pressure gradient exists when the first liquid coolant flows from the first inlet port to the first outlet port. The X-ray tube cooling system according to claim 18. The first liquid path and the second liquid path are:
When the first liquid coolant flows between the first inlet port and the first outlet port;
About 94% to about 97% of the first liquid coolant flows through the first liquid path;
19. The x-ray tube cooling system of claim 18, wherein about 3% to about 6% of the first liquid coolant is sized and configured to flow through the second liquid path.

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