Method and apparatus for thermal management of CT electronics
US7065173B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 2, 2003 |
| Grant date | Jun 20, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 26, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B6/4488
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for cooling the electronics associated with Computed Tomography (CT) detector arrays. More particularly, the present invention discloses use of thermoelectric coolers in cooling CT detector electronics. The present invention also provides for using blowers or fans to recirculated air within a plenum for the cooling of CT detector electronics. The present invention also discloses the use of wick type heat pipes being placed either horizontally or with the evaporator end radially farther out than the condenser end such that rotational forces assist with heat flow through the heat pipe for cooling CT detector electronics. The present invention also discloses use of axial groove heat pipes to cool the CT detector electronics because they have enhanced performance under revolving conditions. Lastly, the present invention discloses use of heat sinks and circulation fans in combination with either type of heat pipe.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.