Modular cooling unit for x-ray device

An x-ray imaging system is disclosed, where one example of such a system includes a frame or other structure to which a modular cooling unit of the x-ray imaging system is attached. The modular cooling unit includes a radiator, configured for fluid communication with an x-ray tube housing, as well as one or more fans configured to cause a flow of air to pass through the radiator. In this example, the x-ray imaging system further includes a detector array arranged to receive x-rays generated by an x-ray tube insert disposed within the x-ray tube housing. In operation, the air flow caused by the fans of the modular cooling unit removes heat from coolant flowing out of the x-ray tube housing and through the radiator.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to x-ray systems, devices, and related components. More particularly, exemplary embodiments of the invention concern cooling systems and components for x-ray imaging systems.

2. Related Technology

The ability to consistently develop high quality radiographic images is an important element in the usefulness and effectiveness of x-ray devices as diagnostic tools. However, various factors relating to the construction and/or operation of the x-ray device often serve to materially compromise the quality of radiographic images generated by the device. Such factors include, among others, and various thermally induced effects such as the occurrence of physical changes in the x-ray device components as a result of high operating temperatures and/or thermal gradients.

The physical changes that occur in the x-ray device components as a result of the relatively high operating temperatures typically experienced by the x-ray device are of particular concern. Not only do the high operating temperatures impose significant mechanical stress and strain on the x-ray device components, but the heat transfer effected as a result of those operating temperatures can cause the components to deform, either plastically or elastically.

While plastic deformation of an x-ray device component is a concern because it may be symptomatic of an impending failure of the component, elastic deformation of the x-ray device components under high heat conditions is problematic as well. For example, as the various components and mechanical joints are subjected to repeated elastic deformation under the influence of thermal cycles, the connections between the components can loosen and the components may become misaligned or separated. In addition, the elastic deformation of x-ray device components has significant implications as well with respect to the performance of the x-ray device.

Accordingly, various cooling systems, components and devices have been considered in an effort to effectively address the problems implicated by the high operating temperatures and thermal cycles typically experienced in x-ray devices and imaging system environments. As discussed below however, typical cooling systems and devices have proven to be problematic.

One purported solution to the thermal problems presented by x-ray devices and imaging systems involves the use of a unified cooling system cabinet that is in fluid communication with the housing of an x-ray tube. Typically, the cooling system cabinet is an integral element of the x-ray tube. That is, the x-ray tube and cooling system cabinet are manufactured and sold together as an integral, replaceable, unit. Often, such integral units are constructed so that the cooling system cabinet serves as a mounting interface that enables mounting of the integral unit to an associated x-ray imaging system. In other cases, major elements of the cooling system, such as heat exchangers and fans, are attached directly to the housing of the x-ray tube, so that no cooling system cabinet is required. While cooling systems such as those just described may be able to provide useful thermal effects in some situations, significant problems with this type of integrated approach nonetheless remain.

For example, because the cooling system cabinet and the x-ray tube are manufactured as an integral unit, any defect in any portion of the integral unit, even where the defect may be as minor as a cosmetic scratch on the cooling system cabinet, or a premature failure of a cooling system component, can serve as adequate grounds for rejection of the entire unit, either at the incoming inspection by the manufacturer quality assurance department, or by the end customer. In particular, even if the identified defect(s) could be easily remedied in the field, quality assurance standards typically require that the entire unit be rejected by the manufacturer. In the event that a defect, however minor, is first discovered by the customer, warranty limitations would likewise compel the customer to return the unit to the manufacturer, since most customers are disinclined to take any action that could void a warranty on expensive capital equipment such as x-ray systems and equipment.

In either case, the manufacturer is typically compelled to scrap the entire unit. Clearly, this type of practice results in significant, and typically non-recoverable, expense on the part of the manufacturer.

The same general considerations extend to the unit once it is placed in service. In particular, even if a minor component of the tube or the cooling system should fail, such a failure typically necessitates replacement of the entire integrated tube and cooling system unit. In addition to the significant expense involved in the purchase of a replacement unit, service personnel time and shipping costs must also be considered. As well, the replacement of the entire unit in such situations results in the waste of the other remaining components of the unit, notwithstanding that such components may still be fully functional and operational. Further, replacement of the entire unit also increases system down time.

Yet another concern with integral units that include both a cooling system cabinet and x-ray tube relates to the relative differences in the respective service lives of components of the integral unit. By way of example, it is sometimes the case that a cooling fan located in the cooling system cabinet has a relatively shorter service life than other components of the integral unit. As a result, the life of the unit as a whole is largely dictated by the expected life of the fan, or the life of whichever other component(s) are most likely to fail first.

In view of the foregoing, and other, problems in the art, it would be useful to provide an x-ray imaging system that includes a modular cooling unit. Exemplary embodiments of the modular cooling unit should be configured and arranged so that constituent components of the modular cooling system can be readily removed and replaced without necessitating the replacement of the x-ray tube insert and housing, or other system components. In addition, such embodiments of the modular cooling unit should be constructed and implemented so as to allow for relative differences in the service lives of elements of the x-ray imaging system.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF AN EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

In general, embodiments of the invention are concerned with cooling systems and components for x-ray imaging systems. In one exemplary embodiment, an x-ray imaging system is provided that includes a modular cooling unit. In this implementation, the modular cooling unit is configured so that an x-ray tube housing, containing an x-ray tube insert, can be removably mounted to, and connected with, the modular cooling unit of the x-ray imaging system.

The exemplary modular cooling unit includes a heat exchanger generally configured and arranged to remove heat from the x-ray tube housing. The heat exchanger includes one or more fans, a pump, and a radiator. A fan mount of the modular cooling unit receives the radiator and positions the fans such that the fans are able to direct a flow of air through the radiator. Additionally, the fan mount enables attachment of the modular cooling unit to a frame, or other structure, of the x-ray imaging system. Finally, a sealing element, such as a gasket for example, is provided that substantially prevents air from the fans from escaping between the fan mount and radiator.

Because the x-ray imaging system is configured to allow temporary removal of the x-ray tube from the modular cooling unit, the components of the modular cooling unit can be readily removed and replaced in the field without necessitating the replacement of the x-ray tube as well. In similar fashion, the ready separability of the modular cooling unit and the x-ray tube enables removal and replacement of the x-ray tube without necessitating replacement of elements of the modular cooling unit.

Reference will now be made to the drawings to describe various aspects of exemplary embodiments of the invention. It should be understood that the drawings are diagrammatic and schematic representations of such exemplary embodiments and, accordingly, are not limiting of the scope of the present invention, nor are the drawings necessarily drawn to scale.

Generally, embodiments of the invention are concerned with x-ray imaging systems and associated cooling systems and components. As discussed more particularly below, exemplary implementations provide for an x-ray imaging system that includes a modular cooling unit to which an x-ray tube is mounted. The modular cooling unit is configured to allow removal of the x-ray tube, either to facilitate replacement of the x-ray tube unit, and/or to permit removal and replacement of elements of the modular cooling unit. In this way, the overall piece count of the system is reduced, and the number of elements removed and replaced is kept to a minimum.

I. An Exemplary X-Ray System

Details will now be provided concerning an exemplary implementation of an x-ray system, denoted generally at100. While various aspects of exemplary embodiments of the invention are discussed in the context of x-ray systems, devices and related components, the scope of the invention is not limited to any particular type of, or application for, such x-ray systems, devices and related components. For example, aspects of the disclosure are applicable to systems where the radiation source is stationary, relative to the subject, as well as to systems where the radiation source moves relative to the subjects, such as computed tomography (“CT”) systems for example. Similarly, some embodiments of the invention are employed in treatment systems, while other embodiments of the invention find application in diagnostic systems. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should not be construed to be limited solely to the exemplary embodiments and applications disclosed herein.

With particular attention now toFIG. 1, the exemplary x-ray system100includes an x-ray tube200within which is disposed an x-ray tube insert (seeFIGS. 3A and 3B) including an anode assembly, denoted generally at “A.” The x-ray tube200is removably attached to an x-ray imaging system300and configured and arranged to interface with a modular cooling unit400of the x-ray imaging system300. As disclosed in further detail elsewhere herein however, the arrangement of the x-ray tube200and modular cooling unit400can be implemented in a variety of different ways in order to suit operating requirements and/or other circumstances. Thus, the foregoing exemplary arrangement of the modular cooling unit400and x-ray tube200is exemplary only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

In any case, exemplary arrangements of the modular cooling unit400and x-ray tube200are such that the components of the modular cooling unit400can be readily removed and replaced in the field without necessitating the replacement of the x-ray tube200as well. Similarly, the configuration and arrangement of the modular cooling unit400and the x-ray tube200enables removal and replacement of the x-ray tube200without necessitating replacement of some or all of the elements of the modular cooling unit400.

With continuing reference toFIG. 1, the exemplary x-ray imaging system300includes a frame302to which the modular cooling unit400is attached. The frame302refers generally to the structure of the x-ray imaging system300and, as such, may include or embrace, for example, a movable gantry and/or other structural element(s) of the x-ray imaging system300. As referred to in this way, the frame302is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to any particular structural element(s).

Where the frame302comprises a gantry or portion thereof, the gantry is configured so that the position of the x-ray tube200, specifically the anode assembly “A,” relative to a subject500can be adjusted if desired. As indicated, the subject500resides on a table304that is positioned so that x-rays originating from the focal spot of the anode assembly “A” will pass through the subject500and be detected by a detector array306, of the x-ray imaging system. In this implementation, the detector array306includes a plurality of detectors306A that gather information which is then compiled to produce a complete x-ray image.

II. Modular Cooling Unit

Directing attention now toFIG. 2A, details are provided concerning an exemplary embodiment of a modular cooling unit, denoted generally at400. As noted earlier, a heat exchanger of the modular cooling unit400includes one or more fans, a pump, and a radiator. Accordingly, the illustrated embodiment includes a radiator402having coolant inlet and outlet connections402A and402B, respectively, and a top402C and bottom402D. In alternative embodiments however, the coolant connections402A and402B may be reversed.

The radiator402is exemplarily implemented as a single pass fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger, such a liquid-gas heat exchanger, but may be implemented in any other form that would provide the requisite heat transfer functionality. Thus, as used herein, the term “radiator” embraces any system, device or combination thereof that implements or facilitates heat transfer functionality. For example, liquid-liquid single pass heat exchangers or multiple pass liquid-liquid or liquid-gas heat exchangers may be alternatively employed. As discussed in further detail below, exemplary gases used in connection with the radiator402include air. More generally, embodiments of the radiator may be designed and implemented as necessary to facilitate achievement of a desired heat transfer effect.

Typically, embodiments of the radiator402comprise metallic material(s) that are compatible with the demands of x-ray operations, and that are compatible with the coolant(s) desired to be employed in the cooling of the x-ray device. Examples of such metallic materials include, but are not limited to, copper and copper alloys. The scope of the invention should not, however, be limited to the aforementioned exemplary materials.

As to the coolants employed in connection with embodiments of the radiator402, it should be noted that as used herein, “fluid” refers to liquids, gases, and combinations thereof. For example, some implementations of the radiator402may use refrigerants which, during the various stages of operation of an associated x-ray system, may substantially comprise a liquid phase, a gas phase, and/or a combination of liquid and gas phases. At least some implementations of the radiator402are suited for use with coolants that substantially comprise ethylene glycol, while other embodiments of the radiator402are used in connection with various dielectric oil coolants.

In at least some embodiments of the invention, the radiator402is configured to be slidingly received within the fan mount404, implemented in the illustrated embodiment as a fan bracket, so that the radiator402can be readily removed for service or replacement. To this end, exemplary embodiments of the radiator402include suitable brackets, clips or other retention devices402E that enable the radiator402to be removably retained within a fan mount404, discussed below. Any structure having functionality comparable to that provided by such retention devices402E may alternatively be employed however.

As well, at least some embodiments of the radiator402include one or more extended surfaces402F. Such extended surfaces402F, which may take the form of fins for example, serve to increase the overall heat transfer area of the radiator402and, accordingly, contribute to a relative increase in heat transfer rates that can be achieved with the radiator402. Parameters such as the number, size, geometry, spacing, positioning and orientation of the extended surfaces402F may be adjusted as required. The extended surfaces402F exemplarily comprise copper, or a copper alloy, but may comprise any other suitable material as well. Because exemplary embodiments provide for a radiator402that can be readily removed from the fan mount404, the extended surfaces402F, and other portions of the radiator402, can be readily cleaned when necessary. This aspect of exemplary embodiments of the invention is particularly useful in environments, such as hospitals for example, where lint and other materials can be drawn into the radiator and thus impair the effectiveness of the radiator.

In addition to the radiator402, the exemplary modular cooling unit400includes a coolant pump400A having coolant connections400B and400C. Generally, the coolant pump400A pumps coolant from the radiator402and through an x-ray tube housing (not shown). In some alternative implementations of the modular cooling unit, the coolant pump is a separate component and not an element of the modular cooling unit. Two examples of such arrangements are illustrated inFIGS. 3A and 3B, respectively, and discussed in detail below.

With continuing attention toFIG. 2A, the exemplary modular cooling unit400further includes a fan mount404which, among other things, serves to position one or more fans406in desired locations relative to the radiator402, and also provides an avenue for mounting the modular cooling unit400to structure of the x-ray imaging system300. The fan mount404is implemented inFIG. 2Aas a fan bracket while, inFIG. 2B, the fan mount takes the form of an adapter plate, discussed below.

Embodiments of the fan mount404comprise one or more pieces of sheet metal, such as steel or aluminum for example, that define an enclosure which at least partially houses the radiator402, and coolant pump if supplied. Where multiple pieces of material are employed to construct the fan mount404, those pieces can be joined together in any suitable fashion, such as with fasteners, or by welding, soldering, brazing or other suitable processes. Additionally, structural pieces, such as angles and flat bar for example, may be substituted for sheet metal. Non-metallic materials may also be employed in the construction of the fan mount404. As the foregoing thus makes clear, the scope of the invention is not limited to any particular configuration or construction materials for embodiments of the fan mount404.

In the illustrated embodiment, both the top402C and bottom402D of the radiator402are substantially enclosed by the fan mount404. In other embodiments however, the fan mount404is configured as a fan bracket substantially in the shape of a “U” having an open portion positioned such that the bottom402D of the radiator402is not enclosed, as in the case of the alternative embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2B. More generally, and as disclosed herein, the fan mount404can be configured in any other way consistent with the desired functionality.

The illustrated exemplary fan mount404further defines one or more flanges404A configured to receive fasteners408so that the fan mount404, radiator402and fans406of the modular cooling unit400can be removably attached to structure of the x-ray imaging system300, such as the frame302for example. In one alternative implementation, one or more of the flanges404A are replaced with suitable mounting brackets, but any other structure(s) of comparable functionality may likewise be employed.

As noted earlier, the fan mount404not only facilitates positioning and retention of the radiator402, as well as the mounting of the modular cooling unit400, but the fan mount404also serves to position one or more fans406in desired locations and orientation relative to the radiator402so that at least some of the heat can be removed from coolant flowing through the radiator402. With continuing attention now toFIG. 2A, further details are provided concerning the use of one or more fans406in connection with an exemplary embodiment of the modular cooling unit400.

In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2A, the fan mount404serves to position a pair of fans406proximate the radiator402so that, as discussed in further detail below in connection withFIGS. 3 and 4, the fans406cause a flow of air to pass through the radiator402, thereby removing some of the heat in the coolant flowing from the x-ray tube housing and into the radiator402. In some embodiments, the fans406are configured and arranged so that air is pulled into the fan mount404and through the radiator402by the fans406. In an alternative arrangement, the fans406are configured and arranged to push a flow of air through the radiator402.

The fan(s)406employed in the modular cooling unit400typically comprise electrically powered fans and may be any type of fan effective in facilitating a desired heat transfer effect. Various types, sizes, and numbers of fans may be employed. Moreover, the positioning, speed, and air movement characteristics of the fans may be selected as desired. Additionally, where multiple fans406are employed, the modular cooling unit400is, in some embodiments, constructed with circuitry which enables cycling of the fans between the “on” and “off” positions at various time intervals. In some exemplary implementations, intermediate fan speed settings, such as a half speed setting, are implemented in connection with the circuitry. In yet other implementations, the fan speed setting permits analog adjustment over a range of speeds.

More generally, the modular cooling unit400includes the circuitry and wiring (not shown) necessary to provide and regulate power to the fans406. In some embodiments, the modular cooling unit400also includes one or more fault circuits and associated indicators or readouts (not shown) for identifying, and providing status concerning, actual or impending failure of one or more of the fans406, and/or other conditions of interest to an operator or technician.

It should be noted that notwithstanding the aforementioned exemplary characteristics of fans and fan arrangements, the scope of the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. Rather, any other fans and/or arrangements of air moving devices can be employed that are effective in facilitating achievement of a desired heat transfer effect.

Finally, the illustrated fan mount404includes one or more sealing elements (see409inFIG. 2B), such as a gasket for example, that serve to prevent the fan airflow, discussed below, from escaping between the fan mount404and the radiator402. The sealing element is composed of any suitable material(s), examples of which include, but are not limited to, rubber, foam rubber, or any other material(s) compatible with the intended application.

Directing attention now toFIG. 2B, details are provided concerning an alternative embodiment of a modular cooling unit, denoted generally at401. As the disclosure herein concerning the modular cooling unit400is germane in many regards to the modular cooling unit401, the following discussion will focus primarily on selected distinctions between the two exemplary embodiments.

As indicated inFIG. 2B, the modular cooling unit401includes a radiator403that is configured to be bolted, or otherwise attached, to the frame302or other structure of the x-ray imaging system300(seeFIG. 1). The radiator403includes a pair of coolant connections403A that permit a flow of coolant to circulate through the radiator403, as disclosed in further detail elsewhere herein. As discussed below in connection withFIGS. 3 and 4, the radiator403is configured for fluid communication with a housing of an x-ray device.

Further, the modular cooling unit401includes an adapter plate405that is also configured to be bolted or otherwise attached to the frame302or other structure. In the illustrated implementation, the adapter plate405also bolts to the radiator403so that the adapter plate405serves to further secure the radiator403in position, while also being separately removable. The adapter plate405exemplarily comprises metallic materials, examples of which include steel and aluminum.

Among other things, the adapter plate405serves to position one or more fans407so that the fans407are able to cause a flow of air to pass through the radiator403. In order to further facilitate heat transfer, the modular cooling unit401includes a sealing element409, such as a gasket for example, that substantially prevents air from escaping between the radiator403and the adapter plate405.

As a result of the configuration and arrangement of the elements of the modular cooling unit401, the fan(s)407and/or the radiator403can be readily removed and/or replaced without necessitating the removal of the associated x-ray tube (see, e.g.,FIGS. 3A and 3B). Similarly, the x-ray tube can be removed and replaced without necessitating the removal of the fan(s)407or radiator403. Thus, another aspect of the construction and arrangement of the modular cooling units disclosed herein, (exemplified inFIGS. 2A and 2B, is that differences in the service life of the various modular cooling unit components and the x-ray tube can be readily accommodated without incurring the undue costs and effort that would likely otherwise result.

In one particular implementation, the pump resides on the x-ray tube and is permanently connected to the radiator, so that only the fans remain on the gantry, or other structure, when the modular cooling unit is removed. In another exemplary implementation however, the pump is connected to the radiator using quick disconnect connections so that the two components can be readily disconnected and reconnected. More generally however, any other components of the modular cooling unit may be similarly configured so as to ensure compatibility with the requirements of a particular installation or operating environment.

III. Arrangement of an X-Ray Tube and Modular Cooling Unit

With attention now toFIG. 3A, further details are provided concerning the structure and arrangement of an x-ray tube, exemplarily implemented as a rotating anode type x-ray tube and denoted generally at600, and modular cooling unit, denoted at700and generally configured as shown inFIG. 2A. Unlike the exemplary modular cooling unit disclosed inFIG. 2Ahowever, the modular cooling unit700does not include a coolant pump. Rather, the coolant pump is, as discussed below, attached to the x-ray tube600. Other than rotating anode type x-ray tubes may be employed as well however. It should likewise be noted that the exemplary modular cooling unit disclosed inFIG. 2Bmay alternatively be employed and arranged in a fashion similar to that indicated inFIG. 3Awith regard to x-ray tube600.

The x-ray tube600is attached, removably in some implementations, to a mounting structure308, of the x-ray imaging system300(FIG. 1), by way of a pair of trunnions601, though any other structure comparable to trunnions601may alternatively be employed. In this implementation, the mounting structure308comprises a portion of the frame302of the x-ray imaging system300. In general, the exemplary mounting structure308is configured so as to provide a space for the modular cooling unit700, with the result that the modular cooling unit700is positioned between the x-ray tube600and the frame302.

The x-ray tube600includes a housing600A that includes an insert support600B which provides support to an x-ray tube insert, discussed below. The x-ray tube600further includes a pair of high voltage connections, one of which is indicated at600C, as well as a pair of coolant connections600D and600E.

Disposed within the housing600A is an x-ray tube insert602with a vacuum enclosure604that defines a window604A through which x-rays generated by the x-ray tube insert602are directed. The window604A comprises beryllium or another suitable material, and is generally aligned with a corresponding window600F of the x-ray tube600. A rotating anode606is disposed within the vacuum enclosure604and is supported by a bearing assembly608that is configured to attach at least indirectly to the insert support600B. Finally, a cathode610, or other electron emitter, is positioned to direct a stream of electrons at a target track606A of the anode606. The target track606A is composed of tungsten or another material(s) suitable for use in the generation of x-rays. In general, the cathode610and target track606A are situated so that a focal spot, defined as the point of impact of the emitted electrons proximate the surface of the target track606A, remains in a desired position relative to a detector or detector array, such as detector array306(seeFIG. 1).

In operation, a high voltage potential established between the cathode610and the anode606, by way of the high voltage connections600C, causes electrons emitted from the cathode610to accelerate rapidly towards the target track606A of the anode606, striking the target track606A and causing x-rays to be emitted through the windows604A and600F. As discussed in further detail below, at least some of the heat generated as a result of the operation of the x-ray tube insert602is removed by way of coolant flowing through the coolant connections600D and600E.

With continuing attention toFIG. 3A, details are provided concerning the structure and arrangement of the exemplary modular cooling unit700that is configured and arranged to aid in the removal of heat from the x-ray tube600. As noted earlier, the modular cooling unit700is positioned, in this exemplary arrangement, beneath the mounting structure308to which the x-ray tube200is attached.

The illustrated modular cooling unit700includes a radiator702with a pair of coolant connections, specifically a supply (“S”) connection704A, by way of which coolant is supplied to the x-ray tube600, and a return (“R”) connection704B, by way of which heated coolant is received from the x-ray tube600. The supply and return connections704A and704B include suitable threads and/or fittings that permit removable attachment of a corresponding pair of coolant hoses706. Additionally, or alternatively, each end of the coolant hoses706may include various fittings as well. The coolant hoses706may be constructed of any material(s) suitable for use in x-ray device operating environments.

Moreover, parameters such as the length and diameter of the coolant hoses706may be selected as necessary to suit the requirements of a particular application. In any case, the coolant hoses706serve to connect the supply and return connections704A and704B of the radiator702with the corresponding coolant connections600E and600D, respectively, of the x-ray tube housing600A so that coolant can be circulated from the x-ray tube housing600A through the radiator702and back to the x-ray tube housing600A.

More particularly, a coolant pump650is provided in this exemplary embodiment that is attached to the x-ray tube600. The coolant pump650includes a suction connection652by way of which heated coolant is drawn from the x-ray tube housing600A through coolant hose706and into the coolant pump650. The coolant pump650further includes a discharge connection654to which coolant hose706is attached and by way of which coolant from the x-ray tube housing600A is discharged from the coolant pump650and pumped through the modular cooling unit700. The coolant hoses706include appropriate hose fittings or other devices for attachment to the suction connection652and discharge connection654of the coolant pump650. In at least some embodiments, the coolant hoses706are configured to be removably attached to the suction connection652and discharge connection654of the coolant pump650.

Note that while the coolant pump650is located in the coolant return line to the radiator702in this exemplary implementation, other arrangements may alternatively be employed. For example, in some alternative arrangements, the coolant pump650is a located in the coolant supply line to the x-ray tube housing600A.

At least some implementations of the invention further include a variety of additional circuits and components to facilitate control of the cooling of the x-ray tube600. Such other circuits and components include, for example, flow regulators and flow control valves to control and monitor coolant flow rates through the housing600A, high temperature alarms and indicators to indicate excessively high coolant temperatures stemming from coolant system faults, temperature and pressure indicators to provide feedback concerning aspects of the coolant flow through the radiator702and/or housing600A, and high temperature cutout switches and circuitry to curtail or prevent operation of the x-ray tube600in the event that the coolant temperature exceeds a predetermined limit and/or if coolant flow drops below an acceptable rate.

With continuing attention to the arrangement disclosed inFIG. 3A, a fan bracket708of the modular cooling unit700substantially encloses and retains the radiator702which, in one alternative arrangement, is supplied to an end user with the x-ray tube600. In the illustrated embodiment, the radiator702is substantially enclosed within, and slidingly received by, the fan bracket708. Depending upon the implementation, the radiator702may alternatively be permanently, or removably, attached to the frame302. Additionally, the fan bracket708is attached to the frame302, thus, the modular cooling unit700, or the fans710at a minimum, is/are implemented as part of the x-ray imaging system300. In some cases, the fan bracket708is removably attached to the frame302while, in other implementations, the fan bracket708is permanently attached to the frame302.

In either case however, the fans710, discussed below, are removably attached to the fan bracket708. As a result of this configuration and arrangement, the radiator702and/or fans710can be readily removed and/or replaced, without necessitating replacement of the entire x-ray tube600. Likewise, because the modular cooling unit700and the x-ray tube600are discrete, separable components, removal and replacement of the x-ray tube600can be effected without necessitating replacement of elements of the modular cooling unit700.

With continuing attention toFIG. 3A, the fan bracket708serves to position one or more fans710so that when one or more of the fans710are activated, a flow of air from the fans710is directed through the radiator702. In this way, at least some of the heat present in coolant entering the radiator702by way of the coolant return connection704B is removed prior to the return of the coolant to the x-ray tube600.

In order to further enhance heat transfer effects achieved in connection with the fans710and radiator702, the illustrated modular cooling unit700further includes one or more sealing elements712which substantially prevent leakage of air from between the fan bracket708and radiator702.

Directing attention now toFIG. 3B, details are provided concerning an alternative arrangement of the x-ray tube600and the modular cooling unit700. As the arrangement disclosed inFIG. 3Bis similar in many regards to that disclosed inFIG. 3A, the following discussion ofFIG. 3Bwill primarily be limited to certain differences between the two arrangements.

One of the distinctions between the arrangement ofFIG. 3Band that ofFIG. 3Aconcerns the location of the coolant pump, denoted at675inFIG. 3B. In particular, the coolant pump675is attached to the mounting structure308. In the illustrated arrangement, the coolant pump675is disposed within the mounting structure308, but the coolant pump675may alternatively be attached to an exterior portion of the mounting structure308. The attachment of the suction connection677of the coolant pump675, by way of coolant hose706and appropriate fittings, to the x-ray tube housing600A is generally similar to the arrangement indicated inFIG. 3A. The same is correspondingly true with respect to the attachment of the discharge connection679, by way of coolant hose706and appropriate fittings, of the coolant pump675to the radiator702.

With attention now toFIG. 4, and with continuing attention toFIG. 3B, details are provided concerning various operational aspects of a system such as is exemplified inFIG. 3B. More particularly,FIG. 4illustrates an exemplary arrangement of an x-ray imaging system800, that includes a modular cooling unit802having a radiator804, one or more fans806and an x-ray tube900within which is disposed an x-ray tube insert (not shown).

A coolant pump808is also provided that, in exemplaryFIG. 4, is part of the x-ray imaging system800, but is separate from the x-ray tube900. As discussed elsewhere herein, the coolant pump may be included as an element of the modular cooling unit (see, e.g.,FIG. 2A), or may comprise an element separate from both the modular cooling unit and the x-ray tube housing (see, e.g.,FIG. 3B), or may comprise an element of the x-ray tube (see, e.g.,FIG. 3AandFIG. 5). Accordingly, the arrangements disclosed in the figures are exemplary only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

In operation, at least some of the heat generated as a result of x-ray tube operations is transferred to coolant pumped by the coolant pump808at flow rate F1from the radiator804. The heated coolant then exits the housing of the x-ray tube900at flow rate F2, which is typically the same as flow rate F1, and returns to the pump808. At the same time, one or more fans806cause air flowing at rate F3to come into contact with heat transfer surfaces of the radiator804. As a result of this air flow, which may comprise a flow of air either pulled or pushed through the radiator804, heat Q is removed from coolant flowing through the radiator804at a corresponding rate. As the foregoing suggests, changes to the rate at which heat Q is removed from the flowing coolant and, thus, from the x-ray tube insert, can be effected by varying parameters including, but not limited to, the air flow rate F3, and the coolant flow rates F1& F2.

Directing attention finally toFIG. 5, details are provided concerning an alternative configuration and arrangement of an x-ray imaging system1000that includes a modular cooling unit denoted generally at1002configured to operate in connection with an x-ray tube1100. In the illustrated arrangement, the modular cooling unit1002includes a radiator1004and one or more fans1006. This arrangement differs from that ofFIG. 4in that the coolant pump, denoted at1102, comprises an element of the x-ray tube1100.

Operationally, the arrangement illustrated inFIG. 5is similar to that of other embodiments disclosed herein. In particular, at least some of the heat generated as a result of x-ray tube1100operations is transferred to coolant which enters the x-ray tube1100at flow rate F1from the radiator1004. The heated coolant is then pumped out of the x-ray tube1100by the coolant pump1102at flow rate F2, which is typically the same as flow rate F1, and back to the radiator1004.

At the same time, one or more fans1006cause air flowing at rate F3to come into contact with heat transfer surfaces of the radiator1004. As a result of this air flow, which may comprise a flow of air either pulled or pushed through the radiator1004, heat Q is removed from coolant flowing through the radiator1004at a corresponding rate. As the foregoing suggests, changes to the rate at which heat Q is removed from the flowing coolant and, thus, from the x-ray tube insert, can be effected by varying parameters including, but not limited to, the air flow rate F3, and the coolant flow rates F1& F2.

The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as exemplary and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is thus indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.