Grid voltage generation for x-ray tube

摘要

An x-ray source for improved electron beam control, a smaller electron beam spot size, and a smaller x-ray spot size with reduced power supply size and weight. A method for improved electron beam control, a smaller electron beam spot size, and a smaller x-ray spot size with reduced power supply size and weight. Grid(s) may be used in an x-ray tube for improved electron beam control, a smaller electron beam spot size, and a smaller x-ray spot size. Control circuitry for the grid(s) can be disposed in electrically insulative potting. Light may be used to provide power and control signals to the control circuitry.

主权项

1. An x-ray source comprising:
a. an x-ray tube including:
i. an anode attached to an evacuated enclosure, the anode configured to emit x-rays;ii. a cathode including an electron emitter attached to the evacuated enclosure, the electron emitter configured to emit electrons towards the anode;iii. an electrically conducting grid disposed between the electron emitter and the anode, with a gap between the grid and the anode, and a gap between the grid and the electron emitter; b. an internal grid control configured to provide alternating current; c. a grid high voltage multiplier electrically coupled between the internal grid control and the grid; d. the grid high voltage multiplier configured to receive alternating current from the internal grid control, generate a direct current (“DC”) voltage based on the alternating current, and provide the DC voltage to the grid; e. a primary high voltage multiplier configured to provide a DC bias voltage at a high voltage connection to the electron emitter, the grid high voltage multiplier, and the internal grid control; f. electrically insulating potting substantially surrounding a cathode end of an exterior of the x-ray tube, at least part of the primary high voltage multiplier including a high voltage connection end, the grid high voltage multiplier, and the internal grid control; and g. a solar cell electrically coupled to the internal grid control and disposed in the potting, and wherein the solar cell is configured to receive light emitted by an external light source and configured to convert energy from the light into electrical energy for the internal grid control.