Patent ID: 7062017

Claim:
In an x-ray tube comprising a vacuum enclosure having disposed therein a target anode with a target surface, an integral cathode disposed in the vacuum enclosure and being spaced apart from the target surface of the target anode, the integral cathode comprising: (a) an emitter configured to receive a flow of electrical current such that thermionic emission of electrons from the emitter is facilitated, said emitter having a predetermined geometrical configuration oriented to cause at least some emitted electrons to be directed at the target surface of the target anode and converge at a focal spot, wherein said predetermined geometrical configuration provides an emitter having a cross-section substantially in the shape of an arc so that a concave side of said emitter is directed towards the target surface of the anode, and the emitter including at least one cutout; and (b) a support cartridge, said support cartridge providing structural support for said emitter.