Abstract: A modular portable X-ray source with integral generator system for generating continuous X-rays of regulated intensity and energy level over a range from zero to maximum and includes a unitary housing containing an X-ray tube, a direct current high voltage power supply for generating a directly controllable, regulated high voltage, a regulated filament supply for generating a directly controllable, regulated beam current, both supplies being directly connected to the X-ray tube without cabling, both supplies being controlled by feedback control signals directly from the X-ray tube, and both being operated directly from a low voltage high current supply, such as a storage battery.

Abstract: A mobile X-ray apparatus (20) is disclosed which incorporates a power supply (22) in which the energy for operation of the X-ray tube (21) is supplied from a flywheel (50) coupled to an electrical machine (24) which functions as both a motor and generator. In the motor mode of operation, a controller (21) provides power to the machine (24) to operate it as a motor and drive the flywheel up to a desired operating speed. Upon request of the operator to initiate an exposure, the controller power is disconnected from the machine and the power terminals (32) of the machine (24) are connected to a transformer and rectifier (27) which increases the generated voltage and rectifies it to provide the high voltage across the X-ray tube (21) required for proper exposures.