Medical imaging device using triggered plasma cathode flash X-ray sources
US4592079A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 21, 1981 |
| Grant date | May 27, 1986 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 21, 2001 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B6/4028
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A medical imaging device employs a plurality of triggered plasma cathode flash X-ray sources, each of which has an axially extending round anode rod, a cathode, and a trigger electrode. The application of a trigger pulse between the electrode and the cathode produces a burst of plasma near the cathode, the plasma containing electrons that are accelerated toward and impact the anode in a region termed the "focal spot" for producing X-rays when a voltage source applies a predetermined voltage between the cathode and anode. According to the invention, a non-conducting surface interconnects the electrode with a cathode or a conductor held at the same potential as the cathode, the application of a trigger pulse to the electrode causing flashover across said surface for producing the burst of plasma.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.