FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present application relates to irradiation technologies, radiation technologies, x- ray tube technologies, electron manipulation technologies, and more particularly, to a through transmission x-ray system with electron manipulation and accompanying methods of use.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Currently, uniformity and dose rate of radiation are crucial in effectively irradiating various types of sample. Uniformity may comprise the ratio of the highest dose of radiation to the lowest dose of radiation emitted from a radiation device, such as an x-ray tube. Additionally, a sample's position in a radiation field is important to the rate and uniformity of the exposure dose that a particular sample receives from an x-ray tube. Existing irradiation technologies typically involve utilizing cathode structures to facilitate emission and acceleration of electrons under a high voltage potential towards an anode target. When the accelerated electrons collide with the anode target of the x-ray tube, x-rays are produced, which may exit the x-ray tube in a plurality of directions to irradiate samples positioned in range of the produced x-rays. Notably, irradiation may be utilized for a variety of purposes. For example, irradiation may be utilized to sterilize a sample, such as, but not limited to, blood, organic material, medical devices and instruments, pathogens, insects, among other types of samples. As additional examples, irradiation may be utilized to facilitate diagnostic imaging, various types of medical therapies, and blood transfusions. As further examples, irradiation may be utilized to improve and/or treat polymer-based products to enhance their properties.

[0003] Despite the various advantages that existing irradiation technologies provide, existing technologies still have various shortcomings and have room for improvement. Notably, existing irradiation technologies do not effectively allow for targeted control of electrons and/or electron beams generated by an x-ray tube. Additionally, existing irradiation technologies do not effectively allow for the manipulation of electrons and/or electron beams to generate different types of fields and different types of x-ray field shapes. As such, while current technologies provide for many benefits and efficiencies, these technologies can be substantially improved and enhanced. In particular, current technologies may be improved so as to provide increased uniformity of radiation exposure, increased radiation dosage rates, and increased electron and x-ray control. Such enhancements and improvements to methodologies and technologies may provide for increased efficiency, increased irradiation capabilities, increased customization capabilities, increased effectiveness, reduced costs, and increased ease- of-use.

SUMMARY

[0004] A through transmission x-ray system with electron manipulation capabilities and accompanying methods of use are disclosed. In particular, the through transmission x-ray system may include an x-ray tube for accelerating influenced electrons under a high voltage potential for the purpose of irradiating samples. The x-ray tube of the system may include an evacuated and vacuum sealed housing, a through transmission target anode deposited on the housing, a filament within the housing, and a cathode structure for facilitating manipulation of emitted electrons, such as by utilizing a waveform generator, electrostatic poles, lenses, radio frequency signals, and/or magnetic fields. The cathode structure may emit electrons toward the through transmission target anode and may facilitate electrostatic and/or magnetic influence of the emitted electrons to generate a plurality of x-ray field shapes and/or patterns. Additionally, the cathode structure of the x-ray tube may be utilized to adjust the electron trajectories of the electrons to optimize irradiation of samples within range of the x-ray tube depending on the relevant use-case scenario. Still further, the cathode structure and/or other componentry of the x-ray tube may be utilized to adjust the focal spot size of the electron beams associated with the electrons. X-rays generated based on the electrons of the electron beams contacting the through transmission target anode may be utilized to irradiate samples in a targeted manner as well.

[0005] In one embodiment, a through transmission x-ray system featuring electron manipulation capabilities is provided. The system may include an x-ray tube including a plurality of componentry to facilitate the operation of the system, and which may be configured to accelerate influenced electrons under a high voltage potential. The x-ray tube may have any desired shape and/or componentry. In particular, the x-ray tube may include an evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing, which, in certain embodiments, may have a portion that forms a hemispherical shape. Additionally, the x-ray tube may include a through transmission target anode deposited on the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing. For example, the through transmission target anode may be deposited on an inner surface of the x-ray tube housing. The x-ray tube may also include a filament disposed within the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing. Furthermore, the x-ray tube may include a cathode structure disposed within the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing. In certain embodiments, when the x-ray tube is activated, the x-ray tube may emit via electrons in an electron beam via the filament of the cathode structure. Notably, the cathode structure in combination with the functionality of a waveform generator, electrostatic poles, radio frequency signals, lenses, magnets, or a combination thereof, may be utilized to manipulate the electrons and/or electron beams to generate desired x-ray field shapes and/or patterns. X-rays generated based on the electrons contacting the through transmission target anode may be utilized to irradiate a sample within range of the x-ray tube. The x-rays may conform to the desired pattern, shape, or a combination thereof.

[0006] In another embodiment, a method for utilizing a through transmission x-ray system is provided. The method may include positioning a sample within range of an x-ray tube for irradiating the sample. Additionally, the method may include activating the x-ray tube. The method may also include facilitating, via a cathode structure of the x-ray tube, emission of electrons of an electron beam towards a through transmission anode structure deposited on a housing of the x-ray tube. Notably, the method may include facilitating manipulation of the electrons of the electron beam by utilizing a waveform generator, an electrostatic pole, a radio frequency signal, a magnetic field, or a combination thereof. For example, the manipulation may involve producing x-ray field shapes, patterns, or a combination thereof, associated with the electrons of the electron beams based on the manipulation. Moreover, the method may include irradiating the sample by utilizing x-rays generated based on the electrons of the electron beam contacting the through transmission anode structure of the x-ray tube, wherein the x-rays conform to the x-ray field shape, the pattern, or a combination thereof.

[0007] According to yet another embodiment, another through transmission x-ray tube is provided. The x-ray tube may include a housing and a through transmission target anode deposited on the housing. Additionally, the x-ray tube may include a cathode structure disposed within the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing. In certain embodiments, the cathode structure may be configured to emit electrons in an electron beam(s) towards the through transmission target anode. The cathode structure may manipulate the electrons in the electron beam(s) by utilizing a waveform generator, an electrostatic pole, a radio frequency signal, a magnetic field, or a combination thereof, to generate a plurality of x-ray field shapes, patterns, or a combination thereof. X-rays may be generated based on the electrons contacting the through transmission target anode and may be utilized to irradiate samples positioned in range of the x-ray tube.

[0008] These and other features of the systems and methods for providing a through transmission x-ray system with electron manipulation are described in the following detailed description, drawings, and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a through transmission x-ray system with electron manipulation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 2 is a front view of an x-ray tube illustrating manipulation of the electron beam position for use with the system of Figure 1 that features electrostatic poles within a housing of the x-ray tube according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [0011] Figure 3 is a front view of an x-ray tube illustrating manipulation of the electron beam position for use with the system of Figure 1 that features electrostatic poles outside the housing of the x-ray tube according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 4 is a top view of the x-ray tube of Figure 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure illustrating adjustment of the electron beam position.

[0013] Figure 5 is a front view of an x-ray tube illustrating focal spot manipulation using a magnetic field according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 6 is a front view of an x-ray tube illustrating focal spot manipulation using a different magnetic field according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 7 is a top view of an x-ray tube illustrating adjustment of focal spot size according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 8 is a flow diagram illustrating a sample method for utilizing a through transmission x-ray system with electron manipulation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a machine in the form of a computer system within which a set of instructions, when executed, may cause the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies or operations of a through transmission x-ray system featuring electron manipulation capabilities.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] A through transmission x-ray system 100 with electron manipulation capabilities and accompanying methods of use are disclosed herein. In particular, the through transmission x-ray system 100 may include an x-ray tube 200 for accelerating electrons under a high voltage potential for the purpose of irradiating samples, such as, but not limited to, blood, insects, pathogens, produce, and the like. The x-ray tube 200 of the system 100 may include an evacuated and vacuum sealed housing 210, a through transmission target anode 212 including a target element 214 deposited on the housing 210, a filament 230 within the housing 210, and a cathode structure 227 for facilitating manipulation of emitted electrons, such as by utilizing a waveform generator 220, electrostatic poles 225, lenses, radio frequency signals, and/or magnetic fields. The cathode structure 227 of the x-ray tube 200 may emit electrons toward the through transmission target anode 212 and may facilitate electrostatic and/or magnetic influence of the emitted electrons to generate a plurality of x-ray field shapes and/or patterns. Additionally, the cathode structure 227 of the x-ray tube 200 may be utilized to adjust the electron trajectories of the electrons to optimize irradiation of samples within range of the x-ray tube 200. Still further, the cathode structure 227 and the waveform generator 220, electrostatic poles 225, lenses, radio frequency signals, and/or magnetic fields of the x-ray tube 200 may be utilized to adjust the focal spot size of the electron beams associated with the electrons. X-rays generated based on the electrons of the electron beams contacting the through transmission target anode may be utilized to irradiate samples in a targeted manner using the patterns, trajectories, and/or shapes. Based on at least the foregoing, the x-ray tube 200 provides enhanced control of accelerated electrons and x-rays generated based on the accelerated electrons contacting the through transmission target anode 212 to irradiate samples more effectively and efficiently.

[0019] As shown in Figure 1 and referring also to Figures 1-9, a through transmission x-ray system 100 is disclosed. Notably, the x-ray tube 200 may be the primary component providing the primary functionality of the system 100, however, the x-ray tube 200, in certain embodiments, may utilize one or more of other components of system 100 to facilitate the operation of the x-ray tube 200 and/or providing supplemental functionality for the x-ray tube 200. Notably, the system 100 may be configured to support, but is not limited to supporting, radiation devices, services for facilitating operation of a radiation device, services for facilitating operation of the x-ray tube 200, servicers for facilitating the operation of the waveform generators 220, services for facilitating the operation of the power supplies 290, services for facilitating the operation of insulators 215, services for adjusting and/or manipulating electrons and/or electron beams 235, services for facilitating operation of the cathode structure 227, data measurement and collection services, content delivery services, monitoring services, cloud computing services, satellite services, telephone services, voice over-internet protocol services (VoIP), software as a service (SaaS) applications, platform as a service (PaaS) applications, gaming applications and services, social media applications and services, operations management applications and services, productivity applications and services, mobile applications and services, and/or any other computing applications and services.

[0020] Notably, the system 100 may include a first user 101, who may utilize a first user device 102 to access data, content, and services, or to perform a variety of other tasks and functions. As an example, the first user 101 may utilize first user device 102 to transmit signals to access various online services and content, such as those available on an internet, on other devices, and/or on various computing systems. In certain embodiments, the first user 101 may be an individual that may seek to irradiate samples of food, organic material, produce, viruses, bacteria, medical devices, blood, cannabis, plants, cells, cosmetics, agricultural products, packaging, any object, any substance, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the first user 101 may be a robot, a computer, a program, a process, any type of user, or any combination thereof. The first user device 102 may include a memory 103 that includes instructions, and a processor 104 that executes the instructions from the memory 103 to perform the various operations that are performed by the first user device 102. In certain embodiments, the processor 104 may be hardware, software, or a combination thereof. The first user device 102 may also include an interface 105 (e.g. screen, monitor, graphical user interface, etc.) that may enable the first user 101 to interact with various applications executing on the first user device 102 and to interact with the system 100. In certain embodiments, the first user device 102 may be and/or may include a computer, any type of sensor, a laptop, a set- top-box, a tablet device, a phablet, a server, a mobile device, a smartphone, a smart watch, and/or any other type of computing device. Illustratively, the first user device 102 is shown as a smartphone device in Figure 1. In certain embodiments, the first user device 102 may be utilized by the first user 101 to control the operative functionality of the x-ray tube 200, waveform generator 220, and/or other devices and/or components in the system 100.

[0021] In addition to using first user device 102, the first user 101 may also utilize and/or have access to additional user devices. As with first user device 102, the first user 101 may utilize the additional user devices to transmit signals to access various online services and content. The additional user devices may include memories that include instructions, and processors that executes the instructions from the memories to perform the various operations that are performed by the additional user devices. In certain embodiments, the processors of the additional user devices may be hardware, software, or a combination thereof. The additional user devices may also include interfaces that may enable the first user 101 to interact with various applications executing on the additional user devices and to interact with the system 100. In certain embodiments, the additional user devices may be and/or may include a computer, any type of sensor, a laptop, a set-top-box, a tablet device, a phablet, a server, a mobile device, a smartphone, a smart watch, and/or any other type of computing device, and/or any combination thereof.

[0022] The first user device 102 and/or additional user devices may belong to and/or form a communications network. In certain embodiments, the communications network may be a local, mesh, or other network that enables and/or facilitates various aspects of the functionality of the system 100. In certain embodiments, the communications network may be formed between the first user device 102 and additional user devices through the use of any type of wireless or other protocol and/or technology. For example, user devices may communicate with one another in the communications network by utilizing any protocol and/or wireless technology, satellite, fiber, or any combination thereof. Notably, the communications network may be configured to communicatively link with and/or communicate with any other network of the system 100 and/or outside the system 100.

[0023] In certain embodiments, the first user device 102 and additional user devices belonging to the communications network may share and exchange data with each other via the communications network. For example, the user devices may share information relating to the various components of the user devices, information identifying the locations of the user devices, information indicating the types of sensors that are contained in and/or on the user devices, information identifying the applications being utilized on the user devices, information identifying how the user devices are being utilized by a user, information including measurement data obtained via sensors of the x-ray tube 200 and/or waveform generator 220, information identifying user profiles for users of the user devices, information identifying device profiles for the user devices, information identifying the number of devices in the communications network, information identifying devices being added to or removed from the communications network, any other information, or any combination thereof.

[0024] In addition to the first user 101, the system 100 may also include a second user 110, who may utilize a second user device 111 to perform a variety of functions. For example, the second user device 111 may be utilized by the second user 110 to transmit signals to request various types of content, services, and data provided by and/or accessible by communications network 135 or any other network in the system 100. In certain embodiments, the second user 110 may be an individual that may also seek to irradiate food, produce, pathogens, electronics, viruses, bacteria, medical devices, blood, cannabis, plants, cells, cosmetics, agricultural products, packaging, any object, any substance, or a combination thereof. In further embodiments, the second user 110 may be a robot, a computer, a program, a process, any type of user, or any combination thereof. The second user device 111 may include a memory 112 that includes instructions, and a processor 113 that executes the instructions from the memory 112 to perform the various operations that are performed by the second user device 111. In certain embodiments, the processor 113 may be hardware, software, or a combination thereof. The second user device 111 may also include an interface 114 (e.g. screen, monitor, graphical user interface, etc.) that may enable the second user 110 to interact with various applications executing on the second user device 111 and to interact with the system 100. In certain embodiments, the second user device 111 may be a computer, a laptop, a set-top-box, a tablet device, a phablet, a server, a mobile device, a smartphone, a smart watch, and/or any other type of computing device. Illustratively, the second user device 111 is shown as a tablet device in Figure 1. [0025] In certain embodiments, the first user device 102, the additional user devices, and/or the second user device 111 may have any number of software applications and/or application services stored and/or accessible thereon. For example, the first user device 102, the additional user devices, and/or the second user device 111 may include applications for controlling the x- ray tube 200, applications for controlling the waveform generator 220, applications for controlling any device of the system 100, applications for controlling the electrostatic poles 225, lenses, radio frequency devices, magnets, and/or other components of the x-ray tube 220 (e.g. controlling position, orientation, functionality, etc.), interactive social media applications, biometric applications, cloud-based applications, VoIP applications, other types of phone-based applications, product-ordering applications, business applications, e-commerce applications, media streaming applications, content-based applications, media-editing applications, database applications, gaming applications, internet-based applications, browser applications, mobile applications, service-based applications, productivity applications, video applications, music applications, social media applications, any other type of applications, any types of application services, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the software applications may support the functionality provided by the system 100 and methods described in the present disclosure. In certain embodiments, the software applications and services may include one or more graphical user interfaces so as to enable the first and second users 101, 110 to readily interact with the software applications. The software applications and services may also be utilized by the first and second users 101, 110 to interact with any device in the system 100, any network in the system 100, or any combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the first user device 102, the additional user devices, and/or the second user device 111 may include associated telephone numbers, device identities, or any other identifiers to uniquely identify the first user device 102, the additional user devices, and/or the second user device 111.

[0026] The system 100 may also include a communications network 135. The communications network 135 may be under the control of a service provider, the first user 101, the second user 110, any other designated user, a computer, another network, or a combination thereof. The communications network 135 of the system 100 may be configured to link each of the devices in the system 100 to one another. For example, the communications network 135 may be utilized by the first user device 102 to connect with other devices within or outside communications network 135, such as, but not limited to, the x-ray tube 200, the waveform generator 220, any other device of the system 100, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the communications network 135 may be configured to transmit, generate, and receive any information and data traversing the system 100. In certain embodiments, the communications network 135 may include any number of servers, databases, or other componentry. The communications network 135 may also include and be connected to a mesh network, a local network, a cloud-computing network, an IMS network, a VoIP network, a security network, a VoLTE network, a wireless network, an Ethernet network, a satellite network, a broadband network, a cellular network, a private network, a cable network, the Internet, an internet protocol network, MPLS network, a content distribution network, any network, or any combination thereof. Illustratively, servers 140, 145, and 150 are shown as being included within communications network 135. In certain embodiments, the communications network 135 may be part of a single autonomous system that is located in a particular geographic region, or be part of multiple autonomous systems that span several geographic regions.

[0027] Notably, the functionality of the system 100 may be supported and executed by using any combination of the servers 140, 145, 150, and 160. The servers 140, 145, and 150 may reside in communications network 135, however, in certain embodiments, the servers 140, 145, 150 may reside outside communications network 135. The servers 140, 145, and 150 may provide and serve as a server service that performs the various operations and functions provided by the system 100. In certain embodiments, the server 140 may include a memory

141 that includes instructions, and a processor 142 that executes the instructions from the memory 141 to perform various operations that are performed by the server 140. The processor

142 may be hardware, software, or a combination thereof. Similarly, the server 145 may include a memory 146 that includes instructions, and a processor 147 that executes the instructions from the memory 146 to perform the various operations that are performed by the server 145. Furthermore, the server 150 may include a memory 151 that includes instructions, and a processor 152 that executes the instructions from the memory 151 to perform the various operations that are performed by the server 150. In certain embodiments, the servers 140, 145, 150, and 160 may be network servers, routers, gateways, switches, media distribution hubs, signal transfer points, service control points, service switching points, firewalls, routers, edge devices, nodes, computers, mobile devices, or any other suitable computing device, or any combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the servers 140, 145, 150 may be communicatively linked to the communications network 135, any network, any device in the system 100, or any combination thereof.

[0028] The database 155 of the system 100 may be utilized to store and relay information that traverses the system 100, cache content that traverses the system 100, store data about each of the devices in the system 100 and perform any other typical functions of a database. In certain embodiments, the database 155 may be connected to or reside within the communications network 135, any other network, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the database 155 may serve as a central repository for any information associated with any of the devices and information associated with the system 100. Furthermore, the database 155 may include a processor and memory or be connected to a processor and memory to perform the various operation associated with the database 155. In certain embodiments, the database 155 may be connected to the servers 140, 145, 150, 160, the first user device 102, the second user device 111, the additional user devices, the x-ray tube 200, the waveform generator 220, any devices in the system 100, any process of the system 100, any program of the system

100, any other device, any network, or any combination thereof.

[0029] The database 155 may also store information and metadata obtained from the system 100, store metadata and other information associated with the first and second users

101, 110, store data generated by the x-ray tube 200, store data generated by the waveform generator 220, store data generated by sensors of the system 100 and/or x-ray tube 200 and/or waveform generator 220, store temperature readings obtained via sensors of the x-ray tube 200, store orientation information associated with the electrostatic poles 225, lenses, radio frequency devices, magnets, and/or other components of the system 100 used to facilitate manipulation of electrons, store user profiles associated with the first and second users 101, 110, store device profiles associated with any device in the system 100, store communications traversing the system 100, store user preferences, store information associated with any device or signal in the system 100, store information relating to patterns of usage relating to the user devices 102, 111, store any information obtained from any of the networks in the system 100, store historical data associated with the first and second users 101, 110, store device characteristics, store information relating to any devices associated with the first and second users 101, 110, store information associated with the communications network 135, store any information generated and/or processed by the system 100, store any of the information disclosed for any of the operations and functions disclosed for the system 100 herewith, store any information traversing the system 100, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the database 155 may be configured to process queries sent to it by any device in the system 100.

[0030] As shown in the diagrams and schematics illustrated in Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 the system 100 may also include an x-ray tube 200. The x-ray tube 200 may be configured to facilitate emission of electrons and/or electron beams and accelerate such electrons and/or electron beams under a high voltage potential towards a through transmission anode target 212 and associated target element 214 deposited thereon. Based on the collisions of the electrons with the through transmission anode target 212 and associated target element 214, x-rays are produced in a plurality of directions and may be utilized to irradiate a sample(s) in range of the x-rays. In certain embodiments, the x-ray tube 200 may include a plurality of components that work together to provide the operative functionality of the x-ray tube 200. In particular, the x- ray tube 200 may include, but is not limited to including, any number and/or combination of the following components: a base 205, an evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing 210, a top portion 211 of the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing 210 a through transmission target anode 212, a target element 214 deposited on the through transmission target anode 212, an insulator 215, one or more electrostatic poles 225 (and/or quadrupole mass spectrometer/analyzer/filter, lenses (e.g. SEM focusing lens), radio frequency devices (e.g. a linear accelerator), magnets, and/or other devices), a cathode structure 227, one or more filaments 230, any number of sensors (e.g. temperature, pressure, moisture, motion, and/or any other type of sensor), processors, memories, transceivers, any other components, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, a waveform generator 220 for generating waveforms (e.g. sine, cosine, etc.) may be integrated with the x-ray tube 200 or may be a separate standalone device. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the x-ray tube 200 and/or waveform generator 200 may be configured to be powered by a power supply 290, which may be connect to a power source.

[0031] The base 205 may be utilized to support the evacuated and vacuum sealed housing 210, the insulator 215, the electrostatic poles 225, and/or other componentry of the x-ray tube. Additionally, wiring and/or power components may reside within and/or adjacent to the base 205 and may be coupled or communicatively linked to the power supply 290 and/or waveform generator 220. In certain embodiments, the base 205 may be secured to the evacuated and vacuum sealed housing 210 such that a seal is created between the base 205 and the evacuated and vacuum sealed housing 210. The evacuated and vacuum sealed housing 210 may be utilized to house and protect various components of the x-ray tube 200, such as, but not limited to, the insulator 215, one or more electrostatic poles 225, the filament 230, and/or other components of the x-ray tube 200. In certain embodiments, the evacuated and vacuum sealed housing 210 may be made of glass, metal, other suitable materials, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the evacuated and vacuum sealed housing 210 may have a cylindrical shape, however, in certain embodiments, the evacuated and vacuum sealed housing 210 may have a dome shape, hemispherical shape, polygonal shape, and/or any other desired shape. In certain embodiments, one end of the evacuated and vacuum sealed housing 210 may a certain shape or design while the other end of the evacuated and vacuum sealed housing 210 may have a different shape or design (e.g. one end has a hemispherical shape, while the other end has a square to rectangular shape).

[0032] In certain embodiments, the through transmission anode target 212 may be deposited on an inner surface of the evacuated and vacuum sealed housing 210 and may encompass the entire inner surface of the evacuated and vacuum sealed housing 210 or a portion of the inner surface of the evacuated and vacuum sealed housing 210. In certain embodiments, the through transmission anode target 212 may include, but is not limited to including, substantially x-ray transparent materials such as, beryllium, carbon (e.g. diamond), aluminum, ceramic, stainless steel, alloys, or a combination thereof. A target element 214 may be integrated into or deposited on the anode target 212 and may, in certain embodiments, be formed of gold, lead, or other elements, such as copper, silver, uranium, or a combination thereof. The insulator 215 may be a high voltage insulator and may provide shielding effect to componentry of the x-ray tube 200. In certain embodiments, the insulator 215 may be a single- ended high voltage insulator, however, in certain embodiments, the insulator 215 may be or include a double+ ended high voltage insulators).

[0033] The electrostatic poles 225 (and/or lenses (e.g. SEM focusing lens), magnets, radio frequency devices (e.g. linear accelerator), and the like) may be present in any desired quantity within the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing 210 (e.g. Figures 2 and 4), outside the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing 210 (e.g. Figure 3), or both inside and outside the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing 210. In certain embodiments, the components may be positioned around the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing 210, such as is shown in Figure 3. In certain embodiments, the electrostatic poles 225 (and/or lenses (e.g. SEM focusing lens), magnets, radio frequency devices (e.g. linear accelerator), and the like) may be utilized to control and/or influence the electron beam shape of electron beams being emitted within the x- ray tube 200, such as in conjunction with the operative functionality of the cathode structure 227 and the waveform generator 220, which generates waveforms for use by the x-ray tube 200. Additionally, waveform generator 220, cathode structure 227, and/or the electrostatic poles 225 (and/or lenses (e.g. SEM focusing lens), magnets, radio frequency devices (e.g. linear accelerator), and the like) may be utilized to direct and/or influence the emitted electron beams to a target location or spot within the x-ray tube 200 evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing 210. Still further, the waveform generator 220, cathode structure 227, and/or the electrostatic poles 225 (and/or lenses (e.g. SEM focusing lens), magnets, radio frequency devices (e.g. linear accelerator), and the like) may be utilized to adjust and/or influence the focal spot size of the electron beams, such as, for example, to adjust the resolution for imaging electronic components for facilitate in the detection of defects. Even further, the waveform generator 220 and/or the electrostatic poles 225 (and/or lenses (e.g. SEM focusing lens), magnets, radio frequency devices (e.g. linear accelerator), and the like) may be utilized to manipulate the electron beams to draw a circular ring (or other desired shape) around the x-ray tube 200 to make a circular field pattern (or other desired pattern) instead of a typical spherical pattern.

[0034] The x-ray tube 200 may also include a filament(s) 230 disposed within the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing 210, and which may form a part of the cathode structure 227. In certain embodiments, the filament 230 may include filament leads that may be electrically connected to an adjustable power supply 290, which may be configured to deliver power to the x-ray tube 200 componentry. The power supply 290 may be configured to be an adjustable high-voltage power supply that may be electrically connected between the anode 212 and the cathode structure 227. Furthermore, the cathode structure 227 may be disposed within the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing 210. In certain embodiments, when the x-ray tube 200 is activated, the x-ray tube 200 may emit via electrons in one or more electron beams via the filament 230 of the cathode structure 227. Once the x-ray tube 200 is activated and is receiving power via the power supply 290, the cathode structure 227 may be configured to accelerate the electrons via the filament 230 towards the through transmission target anode 212 and target element 214 such that when the electrons collide with the anode 212 and target element 214, x-rays are produced. The produced x-rays may then be utilized to irradiate samples within range of the x-rays and the x-ray tube 200.

[0035] The waveform generator 220 may be coupled to the x-ray tube 200, may be integrated with the x-ray tube 200, may be separate from the x-ray tube 200, or may have any configuration with respect to the x-ray tube 200. The waveform generator 220 may receive power from the power supply 290 and may be configured to generate various types of electrical waveforms at desired frequencies. For example, the waveform generator 220 may be configured to produce waveforms including, but not limited to, sine waves, cosine waves, triangular waves, sawtooth-pattern waves, square waves, any type of waves, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the waveform generator 220 may be configured to generate waveforms having repetitive patterns, pulse patterns, and/or any desired patterns of waveforms. The waveform generator 220, along with the cathode structure 227 and the electrostatic poles 225 (and/or lenses (e.g. SEM focusing lens), magnets, radio frequency devices (e.g. linear accelerator), and the like) may be utilized in combination to adjust focal spot size of electron beams, generate x-ray field shapes (e.g. lines, squares, spheres, hemispheres, rings, and/or other shapes), generate any type of patterns (i.e. dynamic patterns and/or static patterns), direct the electron beams to specific locations within the x-ray tube 200, and/or manipulate the electrons and/or electron beams in any desired manner.

[0036] Operatively, the system 100 may operate and/or execute the functionality as described in the methods of the present disclosure and in the following use case scenarios. According to an exemplary case scenario, the first user 101 may desire to irradiate a plurality of samples. In order to do so, the first user 101 may position the samples at specific locations with respect to the x-ray tube 200, such as around the x-ray tube 200 housing 210, at specific positions in range of the x-ray tube 200, or a combination thereof. The first user 101 may activate the x-ray tube 200, such as by activating a switch or power button of the x-ray tube 200. In certain embodiments, the first user 101 may activate the x-ray tube 200 using the first user device 102 or by using other devices of the system 100. Once activated, the waveform generator 220, the electrostatic poles (and/or lenses, radio frequency devices, and/or magnets), along with the cathode structure 227 may be facilitate the emission of electrons in electron beams via the filament 230 and manipulate the electrons and/or electron beams in a desired fashion. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the waveform generator 220 (and/or other comp may be utilized to create movement of the electron beams/field to move the electron beam 235 to position 236 on the left and move electron beam 235 to position 237 on the right. The electrostatic poles 225 may be utilized to influence the direction of the electron beams and to influence the shape of the x-ray fields associated with the electron beams. The electrostatic poles 225 may be positioned inside (e.g. Figure 2) and/or outside (e.g. Figure 3) and/or inside and outside of the x-ray tube 200. In certain embodiments, the waveform generator 220 and/or the electrostatic poles 225 (and/or lenses, radio frequency devices, and/or magnets), along with the cathode structure 227 may also be utilized to cause the electron beam(s) to rotate around to create a cone-type shape or other desired shape. In an example scenario, the componentry may be utilized to manipulate the electrons to create a circular impact pattern (e.g. a donut or ring pattern as shown in Figure 4, which may be created based on a 3D superposition of beams located at positions 236 and/or 237). In such an example, the x-rays may be emitted from locations within the ring/donut shape created by the x-ray tube 200 when the electrons collide and impact with the anode target 212 and target element 214 deposited on the housing 210. The x-rays may be then utilized to irradiate samples positioned in proximity to the region where the x-rays are emitted. Figure 5 and 6 illustrate how the focal spot size and/or position of the electron beams may be adjusted by utilizing magnetic fields 250, 260. Figure 7 illustrates how the focal spot size of a focal spot 280 is tighter than the original size of the focal spot 270 when a stronger magnetic field is utilized. The spot size may be adjusted to change diameter and/or shape depending on the strength of the magnetic field used in the presence of the electron beams generated by the x-ray tube 200. Notably, the directions, patterns and/or shapes (lines, squares, rectangles, rows, circles, rings, etc.) of the electron beams and/or resulting x-rays may be utilized to irradiate samples in a controlled and effective manner. Indeed, the samples may be positioned at desired locations with respect to the x-ray tube 200 by the first user 101 knowing the electron beams and resulting x-rays will have patterns, shapes, focal spot sizes, and/or directions to effectively irradiate the samples positioned at such locations. The patterns, shapes, and/or directions of the electron beams may be adjusted by the componentry of the x-ray tube 200 depending on the specific samples being irradiated and/or based on preferences of the first user 101.

[0037] Notably, as shown in Figure 1, the system 100 may perform any of the operative functions disclosed herein by utilizing the processing capabilities of server 160, the storage capacity of the database 155, or any other component of the system 100 to perform the operative functions disclosed herein. The server 160 may include one or more processors 162 that may be configured to process any of the various functions of the system 100. The processors 162 may be software, hardware, or a combination of hardware and software. Additionally, the server 160 may also include a memory 161, which stores instructions that the processors 162 may execute to perform various operations of the system 100. For example, the server 160 may assist in processing loads handled by the various devices in the system 100, such as, but not limited to, activating and/or deactivating the x-ray tube 200 and/or waveform generator 220; positioning a sample to be irradiated within range of the x-ray tube 200; facilitating emission of electrons of an electron beam, such as towards an anode structure 212 of the x-ray tube 200; manipulating the electrons and/or the electron beams by utilizing waveform generators 200, electrostatic poles 225 (and/or lenses, magnets, radio frequency devices, etc.), or a combination thereof; producing one or more x-ray field shapes and/or patterns associated with the emitted electrons based on the manipulation of the electrons and/or electron beams; adjusting a focal spot size of the electron beams; irradiating samples using x- rays generated using the emitted electrons of the electron beams; and performing any other suitable operations conducted in the system 100 or otherwise. In one embodiment, multiple servers 160 may be utilized to process the functions of the system 100. The server 160 and other devices in the system 100, may utilize the database 155 for storing data about the devices in the system 100 or any other information that is associated with the system 100. In one embodiment, multiple databases 155 may be utilized to store data in the system 100.

[0038] Although Figures 1-9 illustrates specific example configurations of the various components of the system 100, the system 100 may include any configuration of the components, which may include using a greater or lesser number of the components. For example, the system 100 is illustratively shown as including a first user device 102, a second user device 111, an x-ray tube 200, a waveform generator 220, an insulator 215, electrostatic poles 225 (or magnets, radio frequency devices, lenses, and the like), a housing 210, a power supply 290, a communications network 135, a server 140, a server 145, a server 150, a server 160, and a database 155. However, the system 100 may include multiple first user devices 102, multiple second user devices 111, multiple x-ray tubes 200, multiple waveform generators 220, multiple insulators 215, any number of electrostatic poles 225 (or magnets, radio frequency devices, lenses, and the like), multiple housings 210, multiple power supplies 290, multiple communications networks 135, multiple servers 140, multiple servers 145, multiple servers 150, multiple servers 160, multiple databases 155, or any number of any of the other components inside or outside the system 100. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, substantial portions of the functionality and operations of the system 100 may be performed by other networks and systems that may be connected to system 100. [0039] Notably, the system 100 may execute and/or conduct the functionality as described in the method(s) that follow. As shown in Figure 8, an exemplary method 800 for utilizing a through transmission x-ray system featuring electron manipulation capabilities is schematically illustrated. The method 800 may include steps for utilizing a unique x-ray tube that generates unique x-ray field shapes and/or patterns for the purpose of irradiating samples positioned within range of the x-ray tube 200. Additionally, the method 800 may be utilized to adjust the focal spot size of electron beams by utilizing the manipulation capabilities of the x-ray tube 200, which may also be utilized to irradiate samples in a desired fashion. To that end, the method 800, at step 802, may include positioning a sample within range of an x-ray tube 200 for irradiating one or more samples. In certain embodiments, the positioning of the sample may be performed and/or facilitated by the first user 101, the second user 110 and/or by utilizing the first user device 102, second user device 111, the server 140, the server 145, the server 150, the server 160, the communications network 135, any combination thereof, or by utilizing any other appropriate program, network, system, or device.

[0040] At step 804, the method 800 may include activating the x-ray tube 200. The x-ray tube 200 may be activated by depressing a button of the x-ray tube 200, activating a switch of the x-ray tube 200, providing an input to a device coupled to the x-ray tube 200, providing an input to a device communicatively linked to the x-ray tube 200, providing other activation mechanisms or techniques, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the activating may be performed and/or facilitated by the first user 101, the second user 110 and/or by utilizing the first user device 102, second user device 111, the server 140, the server 145, the server 150, the server 160, the communications network 135, the waveform generator 220, any combination thereof, or by utilizing any other appropriate program, network, system, or device. At step 806, the method 800 may include facilitating emission of electrons of an electron beam(s) towards an anode of the x-ray tube 200. For example, the electrons may be transmitted towards the through transmission target anode 212 and the target element 214 deposited on the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing of the x-ray tube 200 by utilizing the cathode structure 227, filament 230, and/or other components of the x-ray tube 200. In certain embodiments, the x-ray tube 200 may be configured to accelerate influenced electrons under a high voltage potential. In certain embodiments, the transmission of electrons of the electron beams(s) may be performed and/or facilitated by utilizing the x-ray tube 200, the waveform generator 220, filament 230, the first user device 102, second user device 111, the server 140, the server 145, the server 150, the server 160, the communications network 135, any combination thereof, or by utilizing any other appropriate program, network, system, or device.

[0041] At step 808, the method 800 may include facilitating manipulation of the emitted electrons of the electron beam(s) by utilizing a waveform generator 220, electrostatic poles 225 (e.g. quadrupole mass spec), radio frequency signals emitted by radio frequency devices (e.g. a linear accelerator), magnetic fields provided by magnets and/or focusing lenses (e.g. SEM focusing lens), or a combination thereof. For example, the x-ray tube 200, waveform generator 200, electrostatic poles 225, cathode structure 227, radio frequency signals, magnetic fields, or a combination thereof, may be utilized direct the electrons and/or electron beams containing the electrons to a spot or location of one's choosing on the target element 214 of the through transmission anode structure 212 deposited on the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing 210. In certain embodiments, the electrostatic poles 225, radio frequency devices, magnetic devices, focusing lenses, and/or other devices utilized to adjust the trajectories of the electrons and/or electron beams. In certain embodiments, the electrostatic poles 225, radio frequency devices, magnetic devices, focusing lenses, and/or other devices utilized to manipulate the electrons may be positioned within the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing 210, outside the x-ray tube 200, or both inside and outside the x-ray tube 200. In addition to directing the electrons and/or electron beams to a specific spot or location, the electrons and/or electron beams may be manipulated by the componentry to control the shape of the electron beams inside the x-ray tube 200 itself and/or generate patterns using the electron beams. In certain embodiments, the manipulation of the emitted electrons may be performed and/or facilitated by utilizing the x-ray tube 200, the waveform generator 220, the electrostatic poles 225 (and/or magnets, radio frequency devices, lenses, etc.), the first user device 102, second user device 111, the server 140, the server 145, the server 150, the server 160, the communications network 135, any combination thereof, or by utilizing any other appropriate program, network, system, or device. [0042] At step 810, based on the manipulation of the electrons and/or electron beams, the method 800 may include producing one or more x-ray field shapes and/or patterns for the electrons and/or electron beams. For example, the x-ray field shapes and/or patterns may include, but are not limited to, lines, squares, spheres, hemispheres, rectangles, rows, circles, triangles, polygons, rings (e.g. donut-shape), trapezoids, starfield pattern, patterns conforming to a desired shape, any type of shapes and/or patterns, or a combination thereof. The x-ray field shapes and/or patterns may be produced within the evacuated and vacuum-sealed housing 210 of the x-ray tube 200. X-rays for irradiating a sample may be generated based on the contact of the electrons of the electron beams with the through transmission anode target 212 including the target element 214. For example, a bremsstrahlung x-ray spectrum may be produced with a plurality of accelerated electrons contact the through transmission anode target 212 including the target element 214. In certain embodiments, the production o the one or more x-ray field shapes and/or patterns may be performed and/or facilitated by utilizing the x-ray tube 200, the waveform generator 220, the electrostatic poles 225 (and/or magnets, radio frequency devices, lenses, etc.), the first user device 102, second user device 111, the server 140, the server 145, the server 150, the server 160, the communications network 135, any combination thereof, or by utilizing any other appropriate program, network, system, or device.

[0043] At step 812, which may be optional, the method 800 may include adjusting a focal spot size of one or more electron beams produced by the x-ray tube 200 based on the manipulation of the electrons and/or electron beams. For example, the width, diameter, or other characteristic associated with the focal spot size may be increased, decreased, or otherwise adjusted by utilizing the componentry of the x-ray tube 200, such as by utilizing magnetic fields, radio frequency signals, lenses, electrostatic poles, and/or other componentry. Such parameters of the focal spot size may also be adjusted depending on the sample(s) to be irradiated with the x-ray tube 200. In certain embodiments, the adjusting of the focal spot size may be performed and/or facilitated by utilizing the x-ray tube 200, the waveform generator 220, the electrostatic poles 225 (and/or magnets, radio frequency devices, lenses, etc.), the first user device 102, second user device 111, the server 140, the server 145, the server 150, the server 160, the communications network 135, any combination thereof, or by utilizing any other appropriate program, network, system, or device. At step 814, the method 800 may include irradiating one or more samples using x-rays generated using the emitted electrons of the electron beam(s) emitted and accelerated by the x-ray tube 200. For example, the x-rays may be generated based on the accelerated electrons contacting and interacting with the through transmission anode target 212 and target element 214 deposited thereon.

[0044] In certain embodiments, the method 800 may be utilized for various types of applications and/or purposes. For example, the method 800 may be utilized for irradiating samples including, but not limited to, electronics, blood, insects, produce, organic products, consumable products, pathogens, biological samples, objects, liquids, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the method 800 may be utilized for microfocused imaging use-case scenarios. In certain embodiments, the method 800 may be utilized for batch irradiation applications, destructive irradiation applications, non-destructive applications, imaging applications, or any combination thereof. Notably, the method 800 may further incorporate any of the features and functionality described for the system 100, any other method disclosed herein, or as otherwise described herein.

[0045] The systems and methods disclosed herein may include further functionality and features. For example, the operative functions of the system 100 and method may be configured to execute on a special-purpose processor specifically configured to carry out the operations provided by the system 100 and method. Notably, the operative features and functionality provided by the system 100 and method may increase the efficiency of computing devices that are being utilized to facilitate the functionality provided by the system 100 and the various methods discloses herein. For example, by training the system 100 over time based on data and/or other information provided and/or generated in the system 100, a reduced amount of computer operations need to be performed by the devices in the system 100 using the processors and memories of the system 100 than compared to traditional methodologies. In such a context, less processing power needs to be utilized because the processors and memories do not need to be dedicated for processing. As a result, there are substantial savings in the usage of computer resources by utilizing the software, techniques, and algorithms provided in the present disclosure. In certain embodiments, various operative functionality of the system 100 may be configured to execute on one or more graphics processors and/or application specific integrated processors.

[0046] Notably, in certain embodiments, various functions and features of the system 100 and methods may operate without any human intervention and may be conducted entirely by computing devices. In certain embodiments, for example, numerous computing devices may interact with devices of the system 100 to provide the functionality supported by the system 100. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the computing devices of the system 100 may operate continuously and without human intervention to reduce the possibility of errors being introduced into the system 100. In certain embodiments, the system 100 and methods may also provide effective computing resource management by utilizing the features and functions described in the present disclosure. For example, in certain embodiments, devices in the system 100 may transmit signals indicating that only a specific quantity of computer processor resources (e.g. processor clock cycles, processor speed, etc.) may be devoted to facilitating operation of the x-ray tube 200 and/or waveform generator 220, and/or performing any other operation conducted by the system 100, or any combination thereof. For example, the signal may indicate a number of processor cycles of a processor may be utilized to facilitate measurement of data associated with the operation of the x-ray tube 200, and/or specify a selected amount of processing power that may be dedicated to generating or any of the operations performed by the system 100. In certain embodiments, a signal indicating the specific amount of computer processor resources or computer memory resources to be utilized for performing an operation of the system 100 may be transmitted from the first and/or second user devices 102, 111 to the various components of the system 100.

[0047] In certain embodiments, any device in the system 100 may transmit a signal to a memory device to cause the memory device to only dedicate a selected amount of memory resources to the various operations of the system 100. In certain embodiments, the system 100 and methods may also include transmitting signals to processors and memories to only perform the operative functions of the system 100 and methods at time periods when usage of processing resources and/or memory resources in the system 100 is at a selected value. In certain embodiments, the system 100 and methods may include transmitting signals to the memory devices utilized in the system 100, which indicate which specific sections of the memory should be utilized to store any of the data utilized or generated by the system 100. Notably, the signals transmitted to the processors and memories may be utilized to optimize the usage of computing resources while executing the operations conducted by the system 100. As a result, such functionality provides substantial operational efficiencies and improvements over existing technologies.

[0048] Referring now also to Figure 9, at least a portion of the methodologies and techniques described with respect to the exemplary embodiments of the system 100 can incorporate a machine, such as, but not limited to, computer system 900, or other computing device within which a set of instructions, when executed, may cause the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies or functions discussed above. The machine may be configured to facilitate various operations conducted by the system 100. For example, the machine may be configured to, but is not limited to, assist the system 100 by providing processing power to assist with processing loads experienced in the system 100, by providing storage capacity for storing instructions or data traversing the system 100, or by assisting with any other operations conducted by or within the system 100. In certain embodiments, some or all of components of the system 900 may be incorporated into the x-ray tube 200 and/or any other devices provided in Figures 1-9, such as to facilitate the operative functionality of such devices. For example, the system 900 may be utilized to facilitate the generation of waveforms and/or to measure data generated by the operation of the x-ray tube 200 and/or other devices of Figures 1-9.

[0049] In some embodiments, the machine may operate as a standalone device. In some embodiments, the machine may be connected (e.g., using communications network 135, another network, or a combination thereof) to and assist with operations performed by other machines and systems, such as, but not limited to, the first user device 102, the second user device 111, the x-ray tube 200, the server 140, the server 145, the server 150, the database 155, the server 160, the waveform generator 220, the power supply 290, any device, system or program of Figures 1-9, any other system, program, and/or device, or any combination thereof. The machine may be connected with any component in the system 100. In a networked deployment, the machine may operate in the capacity of a server or a client user machine in a server-client user network environment, or as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. The machine may comprise a server computer, a client user computer, a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a control system, a network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. Further, while a single machine is illustrated, the term “machine” shall also be taken to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein.

[0050] The computer system 900 may include a processor 902 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU, or both), a main memory 904 and a static memory 906, which communicate with each other via a bus 908. The computer system 900 may further include a video display unit 910, which may be, but is not limited to, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a flat panel, a solid-state display, or a cathode ray tube (CRT). The computer system 2200 may include an input device 912, such as, but not limited to, a keyboard, a cursor control device 914, such as, but not limited to, a mouse, a disk drive unit 916, a signal generation device 918, such as, but not limited to, a speaker or remote control, and a network interface device 920.

[0051] The disk drive unit 916 may include a machine-readable medium 922 on which is stored one or more sets of instructions 924, such as, but not limited to, software embodying any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein, including those methods illustrated above. The instructions 924 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 904, the static memory 906, or within the processor 902, or a combination thereof, during execution thereof by the computer system 900. The main memory 904 and the processor 902 also may constitute machine-readable media. [0052] Dedicated hardware implementations including, but not limited to, application specific integrated circuits, programmable logic arrays and other hardware devices can likewise be constructed to implement the methods described herein. Applications that may include the apparatus and systems of various embodiments broadly include a variety of electronic and computer systems. Some embodiments implement functions in two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices with related control and data signals communicated between and through the modules, or as portions of an application-specific integrated circuit. Thus, the example system is applicable to software, firmware, and hardware implementations.

[0053] In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, the methods described herein are intended for operation as software programs running on a computer processor. Furthermore, software implementations can include, but not limited to, distributed processing or component/object distributed processing, parallel processing, or virtual machine processing can also be constructed to implement the methods described herein.

[0054] The present disclosure contemplates a machine-readable medium 922 containing instructions 924 so that a device connected to the communications network 135, another network, or a combination thereof, can send or receive voice, video or data, and communicate over the communications network 135, another network, or a combination thereof, using the instructions. The instructions 924 may further be transmitted or received over the communications network 135, another network, or a combination thereof, via the network interface device 920.

[0055] While the machine-readable medium 922 is shown in an example embodiment to be a single medium, the term "machine-readable medium" should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term "machine-readable medium" shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by the machine and that causes the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure.

[0056] The terms "machine-readable medium," "machine-readable device," or "computer- readable device" shall accordingly be taken to include, but not be limited to: memory devices, solid-state memories such as a memory card or other package that houses one or more read only (non-volatile) memories, random access memories, or other re-writable (volatile) memories; magneto-optical or optical medium such as a disk or tape; or other self-contained information archive or set of archives is considered a distribution medium equivalent to a tangible storage medium. The "machine-readable medium," "machine-readable device," or "computer-readable device" may be non-transitory, and, in certain embodiments, may not include a wave or signal per se. Accordingly, the disclosure is considered to include any one or more of a machine-readable medium or a distribution medium, as listed herein and including art-recognized equivalents and successor media, in which the software implementations herein are stored.

[0057] The illustrations of arrangements described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of various embodiments, and they are not intended to serve as a complete description of all the elements and features of apparatus and systems that might make use of the structures described herein. Other arrangements may be utilized and derived therefrom, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Figures are also merely representational and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions thereof may be exaggerated, while others may be minimized. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

[0058] Thus, although specific arrangements have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific arrangement shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments and arrangements of the invention. Combinations of the above arrangements, and other arrangements not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. Therefore, it is intended that the disclosure not be limited to the particular arrangement(s) disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments and arrangements falling within the scope of the appended claims.

[0059] The foregoing is provided for purposes of illustrating, explaining, and describing embodiments of this invention. Modifications and adaptations to these embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art and may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of this invention. Upon reviewing the aforementioned embodiments, it would be evident to an artisan with ordinary skill in the art that said embodiments can be modified, reduced, or enhanced without departing from the scope and spirit of the claims described below.