Grid-cathode controlled X-ray tube
US4104526A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 8, 1975 |
| Grant date | Aug 1, 1978 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 8, 1995 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01J35/116
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An X-ray tube whose output may be measured and controlled through the grid-cathode combination is disclosed. Additionally, a method of an apparatus for controlling the X-ray production from the anode of such an X-ray tube over a known interval of time, either in steady state or pulse mode operation, is disclosed in this application. In a preferred form, the cathode of an X-ray tube is operated at a high negative potential so that the anode, including at least one target, may be operated near ground potential. Actual return current flow from the anode to the cathode is detected and used to control the control grid or cathode to produce either pulsing (say, 100 microseconds) or consistent anode current (up to several days, if desired), independent of spurious electron production in the X-ray tube. Additionally, means for assuring outgasing of an X-ray tube, particularly in the vicinity of the collimating and shielding means, surrounding the anode is disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.