X-ray or gamma ray systems or devices – Electronic circuit – With switching means
Reexamination Certificate
1998-11-25
2001-04-03
Porta, David P. (Department: 2876)
X-ray or gamma ray systems or devices
Electronic circuit
With switching means
C378S207000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06212256
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to the field of x-ray tube radiation sources such as those used in medical diagnostic and imaging systems. More particularly, the invention relates to a technique for predicting and scheduling replacement of x-ray tubes in such systems to reduce down time and costs associated with such servicing.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A variety of medical diagnostic and other systems are known in which x-ray tubes are employed as a source of radiation. In medical imaging systems, for example, x-ray tubes are used in both x-ray systems and computer tomography (CT) systems as a source of x-ray radiation. The radiation is emitted in response to control signals during examination or imaging sequences. The radiation traverses a subject of interest, such as a human patient, and a portion of the radiation impacts a detector or a photographic plate where the image data is collected. In conventional x-ray systems the photographic plate is then developed to produce an image which may be used by a radiologist or attending physician for diagnostic purposes. In digital x-ray systems a photo detector produces signals representative of the amount or intensity of radiation impacting discrete pixel regions of a detector surface. In CT systems a detector array, including a series of detector elements, produces similar signals through various positions as a gantry is displaced around a patient.
Depending upon the particular modality of the imaging system and the system configuration, the x-ray tube source may be mounted in various manners. For example, in conventional x-ray systems, anode and cathode assemblies support the x-ray tube within a casing. The anode assembly is coupled to a target within a glass or metal envelope, while the cathode assembly is coupled to a cathode plate. A metal shield or casing surrounds the glass envelope. The volume between the casing and the envelope is filled with a cooling medium, such as oil. A window is provided in the casing for emitting x-rays created by controlled discharges between the cathode plate and the target.
The x-ray tube is typically operated in cycles including periods in which x-rays are generated interleaved with periods in which the x-ray source is allowed to cool. A typical imaging sequence may include a number of such sequences. Moreover, the x-ray tube may have a useful life over a large number of examination sequences, and must generally be available for examination sequences upon demand in a medical care facility.
Given the demanding schedules to which x-ray tubes are often subjected, failure of the tubes is of particular concern. Various failure modes have been observed in x-ray tubes, and these may have a variety of sources. For example, within the glass encasement a vacuum or near vacuum is preferably maintained. However, due to leaks, degradation in the cathode or anode materials, decomposition of anode filaments, and so forth, particulates may be created or freed within the tube. These particulates may result in eventual failure of the tubes over time. Failure of the tubes can also be a function of the modes of operation and user-selected parameters, such as voltage or current.
Due to the stringent requirements and reliability demands placed on x-ray tubes in medical diagnostic systems, special programs may be implemented for insuring rapid replacement of the tubes upon failure. Present procedures for replacement of x-ray tubes in medical diagnostic systems are primarily reactionary. Service personnel generally monitor the performance of the tubes over time and through the various examination sequences. However, the service personnel are often made aware of tube failures only as they occur. When a tube does fail, to insure rapid replacement of failed tubes a conventional response is to expedite shipment of a replacement tube which is then installed by trained service personnel at considerable shipping and handling expense. While the x-ray tubes could be shipped in advance and stored on location or in a centralized service facility, these strategies also require inventory of relatively expensive items, again resulting in additional costs of the service program. Such inventories may also inconveniently occupy valuable storage space at the location.
There is a need, therefore, for an improved management and servicing approach to x-ray tube replacement. In particular, there is a need for a service system which can reduce down time in diagnostic, imaging and other systems incorporating x-ray tubes as radiation sources which can result from an anticipated failure of the x-ray tubes. The system would advantageously permit forecasting of possible tube failure and scheduling of tube replacement and shipment prior to actual failure. Such a system could also provide feedback for planning the tube manufacturing and assembly process, as well as feedback to system users for planning the replacement process.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a novel technique for managing x-ray tube replacement designed to respond to these needs. The technique makes use of predictive indicators of possible future tube failure. The indicators may be monitored through existing tube control or power circuitry. The parameters considered indicative of possible tube failure are then analyzed on a periodic basis, either at the scanner or at a centralized facility. The centralized facility may acquire the data through periodic sweeps of scanners subscribing to a service program. Alternatively, the scanner may monitor the data and contact the service facility to upload the data or to signal possible future failure. The operative state of the tubes may then be reported to the scanner management personnel, including the operations personnel at the scanner location and/or a field service engineer, such as through interactive messaging directly to the scanner. When the indicators suggest that tube failure is imminent, replacement is scheduled and a replacement tube is shipped. Again, the scanner management personnel can be easily informed, as can field service technicians via an interactive network connection. The technique thereby reduces the need for inventory locally near the scanner, while reducing down time resulting from unanticipated tube failure and replacement.
Thus, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, a method is provided for managing of replacement of x-ray tubes. The method includes a first step of monitoring a plurality of operating parameters of a system including an x-ray tube. The monitored parameters are then analyzed in accordance with a predetermined failure prediction routine. Based upon the analysis of the monitored parameters, replacement of the x-ray tube is scheduled. Data representative of the monitored parameters may be transmitted from the system to a service facility. Such transmission may occur during periodic sweeps of the system by the service facility. The method may include a further step of commanding shipment of a replacement x-ray tube in accordance with the scheduled replacement. Messages, such as in electronic format, may be sent to a facility in which the x-ray tube is installed, as well as to field service personnel for coordinating replacement of the x-ray tube. Messages may also be provided for advising the scanner operator of possible operational considerations or changes for extending tube service until the actual replacement.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for replacing x-ray tubes in a medical diagnostic system. The method includes steps for detecting a plurality of operating parameters of the diagnostic system, and storing values representative of the parameters. The stored values are then analyzed to determine potential tube failure and, based upon the analysis, replacement of the x-ray tube is scheduled. The stored values may be transmitted from the diagnostic system to a remote service facility where the analysis, identification of possible corrective measures, and scheduling are performed. Moreo
Fleming Steven John
Miesbauer Diane Marie
Southgate David Lee
Zettel Hubert Anthony
Fletcher Yoder & Van Someren
GE Medical Global Technology Company, LLC
Porta David P.
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