Patent ID: 6519318
Filing Date: 2003-02-11
Classification: H01J,H05G

Abstract:
An x-ray tube comprising:(a) a cathode cylinder having an electron source disposed therein; (b) an x-ray tube housing having an anode disposed therein, the anode having a target surface capable of receiving electrons emitted by the electron source; (c) a shield structure positioned between the cathode cylinder and the x-ray tube housing, the shield structure defining an aperture through which the electrons are passed from the electron source to the target surface; and (d) at least one fluid passageway disposed proximate to the shield structure, so that at least some heat from the shield structure is absorbed by the coolant as the coolant passes through the at least one fluid passageway, and wherein at least one depression is defined in at least one surface of the at least one fluid passageway and is at least partially in contact with the coolant, the at least one depression facilitating nucleate boiling of the coolant in the at least one fluid passageway.