happyXTube: A software for the real-time X-ray tube simulation

Abstract

The X-ray tube is the core component of X-ray imaging, which is extensively utilized in both biomedical imaging and industry applications. Analyzing the spectrum generated by the X-ray tube can significantly contribute to the optimization of parameters pertinent to X-ray applications. However, for most medical practitioners, the absence of engineering expertise poses a challenge in measuring the characteristics of X-ray tubes using specialized equipment or in conducting simulations through programming on their own. Therefore, there is a pressing need for a simple and user-friendly X-ray tube simulation software. The happyXTube application addresses this need by providing a real-time and well-designed tool that utilizes a simplified tube model. It is programmed in C++ and enables real-time simulations to facilitate the research characteristics of X-ray tube. Furthermore, the accuracy of the simulation results is verified by comparing the simulated spectra and calculated first half-value layers with data obtained from Geant4, SpekPy, Xpecgen and Ebel model. This demonstrates that happyXTube is a straightforward, easy-to-use and powerful simulation tool, which is beneficial for the rapid verification and comprehension of tube characteristics.