X-ray tube anode with optimized area focal spot track

A method for minimizing off focus radiation generated in an imaging procedure using an X-ray tube, the method comprising the steps of:

• providing an X-ray tube comprising:
• a cathode assembly;
• and
• an anode assembly spaced from the cathode assembly, wherein the anode assembly comprises:
• a shaft;
• a sleeve disposed on the shaft, wherein one of the shaft and the sleeve is rotatable with regard to the other to form a rotating component and a stationary component;
• a body attached to the rotating component;
• and
• at least one emissive material track defined on the body;
• wherein the at least one emissive material track has a first width, wherein the first width is less than or equal to twice a second width of a focal spot track on the body, and wherein the first width is greater than the second width of the focal spot track;
• directing the electron beam from the cathode assembly onto at least one the emissive material track along the focal spot track;
• and
• enabling electrons from the electron beam bouncing off of the emissive material track to contact the body on either side of the at least one emissive material track,
• wherein the emissive material track is formed of a material having a first atomic number and wherein the body is formed of a material having a second atomic number and wherein a ratio of the first atomic number to the second atomic number is at least 6.

An X-ray tube comprising:

• a cathode assembly;
• and
• an anode assembly spaced from the cathode assembly, wherein the anode assembly comprises:
• a shaft;
• a sleeve disposed on the shaft, wherein one of the shaft and the sleeve is rotatable with regard to the other to form a rotating component and a stationary component;
• a body attached to the rotating component;
• and
• at least one emissive material track disposed on the body, wherein the at least one emissive material track has a first width, wherein the first width is less than or equal to twice a second width of a focal spot track on the body, and wherein the first width extends outwardly at least 25% of the second width to each side of the focal spot track.