Patent ID: 6377659
Filing Date: 2002-04-23
Classification: H01J

Abstract:
An x-ray generating device for generating x-rays, the x-ray generating device comprising:a vacuum vessel having an inner surface forming a vacuum chamber; an anode assembly disposed within the vacuum chamber, the anode assembly including a target; a cathode assembly disposed within the vacuum chamber at a distance from the anode assembly, the cathode assembly configured to emit electrons that strike the target of the anode assembly, producing x-rays and residual energy in the form of heat; a shaft coupled to the vacuum vessel by a bearing assembly, the shaft having a first end and a second end, the first end of the shaft having a support for supporting the target; and a thermal gradient device positioned adjacent to and in thermal communication with the second end of the shaft, the thermal gradient device operable for transferring heat away from the second end of the shaft.