Interface for liquid metal bearing and method of making same
US7933382B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 25, 2009 |
| Grant date | Apr 26, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 6, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49982
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An x-ray tube includes a cathode and a target assembly positioned to receive electrons emitted from the cathode. The target assembly includes a target and a spiral groove bearing (SGB) configured to support the target. The SGB includes a rotatable component having a first surface and a first material attached to the first surface, a stationary component having a second surface and a second material attached to the second surface, the stationary component positioned such that a gap is formed between the first material and the second material, and a liquid metal positioned in the gap. At least one of the first and second materials has a thickness greater than 0.1 mm.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.