Leaf module for a multi-leaf collimator and multi-leaf collimator

Abstract

The invention relates to a leaf module (102) for a multi-leaf collimator (132), comprising a leaf unit (104) and a leaf drive unit (106), wherein the leaf unit (104) comprises a leaf (108) for shielding beams from a selected area, and the leaf unit (104) is mounted displaceably in an adjusting direction (110), wherein the leaf drive unit (106) is designed to displace the leaf unit (104) linearly in the adjusting direction (110), and wherein the leaf drive unit (106) comprises at least one drive mechanism (112), being designed in such a way that the drive mechanism (112) operates based on pneumatic actuation. Furthermore, the invention relates to a multi-leaf collimator (132) comprising a plurality of leaf modules (102) according to the invention. The invention is based on the objective of designing a leaf module (102) and a multi-leaf collimator (132) as compactly as possible, while achieving a simple, reliable and variable adjustability of the leaf unit (104). The invention is regarded to be particularly suitable for implementation in Cobalt-60 or mid- to low-end linac radiotherapy apparatuses.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to a blade module for a multi-leaf collimator, comprising a blade unit and a blade driving unit, wherein the blade unit includes blades for blocking a beam so as to shield a selected area, and the blade unit is displaceably installed in an adjustment direction on, wherein the blade drive unit is designed to linearly displace the blade unit in the adjustment direction, and wherein the blade drive unit comprises at least one drive mechanism. Furthermore, the invention relates to multi-leaf collimators. Background technique [0002] Various embodiments of multi-leaf collimators comprising blade modules each featuring a blade unit and a blade drive unit are known in the prior art. This type of multi-leaf collimator is preferably used to control the shape of the high energy radiation beam emanating from the radiation source and propagating in the direction of propagation. [0003] Multi-leaf collimators are commonly used in t...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, such a spring would result in an unnecessary enlargement of the collimator

Thus, due to the increased size of the radiation head, the gap between the radiation head and the patient would have to be enlarged, reducing the desired radiation impact and even preventing radiation altogether at some gantry locations.

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