Abstract: A rotating x-ray tube includes an electron-beam accelerator assembly having an indirectly heated cathode structure. The cathode structure includes an electron-emitting region mounted at the center of a rotationally symmetric Pierce-cathode configuration. An electron beam travels along a selected path as the tube rotates so that the electron beam strikes selected portions of a target mounted within the tube as it rotates. Two magnetic coils and a ferromagnetic mirror plate are arranged to function as a single quadrupole electromagnet, which has its axis parallel to and offset from the electron beam and which elongates the electron beam in a radial direction.

Abstract: X-ray tube includes a rotatable envelope in which is mounted an electron gun at one end and a target anode at the other end. A fixed means for deflecting the electron beam from the electron gun is provided to deflect the electron beam on a fixed path as the envelope of the x-ray tube rotates about an axis. The electron beam being confined to a fixed path results in the electron beam striking various positions of the target anode to provide for improved heat dissipation. The electron beam is deflected along the fixed path using magnetic deflection means including magnetic deflection coils positioned external of the envelope to provide a deflection field transverse to the electron beam. The target anode is cooled by directing a cooling fluid on an external side of the target anode.

Abstract: Disclosed is a composite metal structure of a desired configuration and a method of fabricating the composite metal structure by preshaping at least one metal layer prior to assembly of the metal layers in a die of a second preshape configuration. Following brazing of the metal layers while in the die, the brazed structure is removed from the die and springs to the final desired configuration. The process has proved to be particularly useful in fabricating composite electron beam targets for use in X-ray scanners.

Abstract: A variable width fan beam of radiation is provided in a high speed X-ray transmission system by a plurality of ring collimators with the ring collimators being mounted whereby spacing between ring collimators can be varied. In preferred embodiment an arcuate array of radiation detectors are mounted in an annular housing which functions as one of the ring collimators.

Abstract: A high speed multiple section, computed-tomographic X-ray scanner includes a plurality of radiation detectors arranged in two rings. Each detector comprises an elongated scintillator crystal, a small area photodiode positioned at one end of the crystal, and a light reflector positioned at the opposite end of the crystal with the crystal functioning as a light pipe in directing light to the photodiode. An active low pass filter is employed as a preamplifier for current from each photodiode.

Abstract: Disclosed is a target structure for use in an X-ray transmission scanner in which X-rays are generated by directing an electron beam at an X-ray generating target. The structure includes a support bracket having a recessed portion and a support surface formed in the recessed portion. A bolt extends through the bracket and maintains a target member in abuttment with the support surface which positions the target in proper alignment with an electron beam.