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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Method and structure for optimizing radiographic quality by controlling x-ray tube voltage, current, focal spot size and exposure time

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6486733

This patent describes a method for optimizing an X-ray image from an X-ray apparatus comprising: an X-ray tube having a cathode which emits electrons and an anode on which the electrons impinge and which is a source of X-rays, the tube having an operating voltage which is the voltage drop between the anode and the cathode, a tube current which is the current between the anode and the cathode, and a focal spot size which is the area of the anode on which the electrons impinge, and in which the voltage, the current and the focal spot size have initial settings; a collimator having an opening through which the X-rays leaving the source in the direction of the opening may pass; means for holding tissue to be examined in position for being irradiated; means for showing an image of X-rays which have passed through the tissue; at least one sensor which generates sensor signals for detecting radiation passed through the tissue and through the means for showing an image, and for calibrating the X-ray apparatus; and means for receiving the sensor signals from at least one sensor and based on the sensor signals sending control signals which control the operating voltage.

Assignee:
NOV; NOV-89-034379; EDB-89-027943
Patent Number(s):
US 4763343
OSTI ID:
6486733
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English