US 6,005,918 A · X-ray tube window heat shield

Abstract

An x-ray tube includes an envelope defining an evacuated chamber and having a window transmissive to x-rays. An anode assembly and a cathode assembly operate within the envelope to produce x-rays which travel through the window transmissive to x-rays towards a patient or subject under examination. A shield transmissive to x-rays is coupled to the envelope and positioned such that x-rays traveling through the window transmissive to x-rays must first travel through the shield. The shield prevents substantially all secondary electrons created during the production of x-rays from coming into contact with the window transmissive to x-rays thereby preventing excessive heating of the window transmissive to x-rays. An electrode defined by the envelope in a region proximate the window transmissive to x-rays may additionally or alternatively be used to prevent secondary electrons from reaching the window transmissive to x-rays.

Claims29

Dependent claims

An x-ray tube comprising:

an anode defining a target for intercepting a beam of electrons such that collision between said electrons and the anode generate x-rays from an anode focal spot;
a cathode for producing said electrons, said cathode including a filament which emits electrons when heated;
a tube envelope enclosing the anode and cathode in a vacuum;
an x-ray transmissive window through which x-rays generated by the anode pass, the window joined to the envelope with a vacuum tight seal;
and
means for intercepting secondary electrons reflected from the anode before said secondary electrons strike the x-ray transmissive window, the intercepting means secured to the envelope.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

X-ray tube window heat shield

Life of this patent

X-ray tube window heat shield

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims29