Laser-Activated X-Ray Source

We propose a method of generating x-rays that will combine high instantaneous output of rotating-anode x-ray tubes with continuous cooling rates as great or greater than fixed-anode tubes. This combination can be achieved in a mechanically simple way, and will reduce spot wobble without vacuum seals, vacuum bearings, deflecting field, or conventional cathodes, by either thermionic or photoemission, using laser excitation. Both methods have worked in previous experiments, the proposed configuration should maximize output. The method is also advantageous in extended-anode tubes, such as for linear scans and CT systems without moving parts. OPTION: None submitted.