Neutron source system

Abstract

The invention discloses a neutron source system, which is used for generating neutrons, and comprises a vacuum beam tube for guiding a beam to pass through; the neutron target assembly comprises a target body, and the target body is detachably connected with the neutron target assembly; the target body and one end of the vacuum beam tube are hermetically connected at a first position; the disassembly and assembly mechanism is used for applying external force to the neutron target assembly, so that one end of the vacuum beam tube is hermetically connected with the target body or disconnected from the target body; the moving mechanism is detachably connected with the neutron target assembly, the moving mechanism is used for moving the neutron target assembly to a second position, and the second position is located beside the first position; on the premise that the internal space is narrow, the neutron target assembly can be rapidly disassembled and assembled, the target body can be conveniently and rapidly replaced, the technical problems that disassembly and assembly are complex and high in difficulty, and the operation space of automatic disassembly and assembly instruments is insufficient are solved, mechanical automatic target replacement operation can be easily achieved, and on the premise that the safety of operators is guaranteed, the working efficiency is improved. And the operation efficiency and the operation quality can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of neutron technology, and in particular to a neutron source system. Background Art

[0002] BNCT (boron neutron capture therapy) is a rapidly developing precision diagnosis and treatment technology in the field of international tumor treatment in recent years. It first injects targeted molecules carrying 10B into the human body, and the targeted drugs will selectively accumulate in the tumor tissue. Then, the tumor site is irradiated with a directional low-energy epithermal neutron beam, which reacts with the boron-containing drugs in the tumor tissue. The range is about the size of a cancer cell, and the cancer cells are killed in a targeted manner without damaging the surrounding normal cells.

[0003] In the boron neutron capture therapy system, the neutron source system is the key system for generating neutrons, and the neutron target is a key component in the neutron source system. It is connected to the end of the beam vacuum beam tube and its function is to convert protons into neutrons. The neutron target will be damaged under long-term beam bombardment. In practical applications, it is necessary to replace the target periodically. Since the replaced discarded neutron target itself has high radiation, if manual target replacement is used, it is necessary to wait for the neutron target to cool down or the radioactivity to decrease before the operator can replace the target, resulting in low target replacement efficiency and increasing the radiation risk of the operator. Therefore, in the medical system, automated devices or equipment are tended to be used to automatically replace the neutron target.

[0004] At present, with the further development of BNCT, in the face of the treatment needs of localized tumor tissue, the miniaturization of the treatment system is an inevitable development trend. Therefore, inevitably, the installation space inside the neutron source system is facing further reduction. If the neutron target body still adopts the conventional bolt-type connection structure, due to the narrow space, it is difficult for the automated device or equipment to reach into the narrow space to remove or install each bolt. Even if an automated device or equipment that can reach into the narrow space to disassemble and assemble each bolt is designed, it is still necessary to consider the structure of multiple disassembly and assembly bolts to disassemble or install each bolt in sequence or at the same time during the design. If one or more of the disassembly and assembly bolts are wrong in structure, it is easy to cause structural damage to the neutron target. In addition, it will also cause more failure points of the automated device or equipment, increasing the frequency of maintenance or replacement of the automated device or equipment.

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to improve the structure of the neutron source system in the miniaturized BNCT treatment system, reduce the difficulty of disassembly and assembly of the neutron target and the complexity of operation, and improve the safety and efficiency of disassembly and assembly of the neutron target. Summary of the invention

[0006] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a neutron source system to solve the technical problems that in the prior art, for a miniaturized BNCT treatment system, the installation method of the neutron target adopts a connection method of multiple bolts, which has complex disassembly and assembly and relatively high difficulty in disassembly and assembly. In addition, due to the small installation space of the neutron target, it also leads to the technical problem of insufficient operating space for the automated disassembly and assembly device or equipment.

[0007] In order to solve the above technical problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solutions:

[0008] The present invention provides a neutron source system for generating neutrons, comprising:

[0009] A vacuum beam tube, used to guide the beam through;

[0010] A neutron target assembly comprises a target body, wherein the target body is detachably connected to the neutron target assembly; the target body is sealed and connected to one end of the vacuum beam tube at a first position;

[0011] A disassembly and assembly mechanism, used for applying external force to the neutron target assembly to seal or release one end of the vacuum beam tube from the target body;

[0012] A moving mechanism is detachably connected to the neutron target assembly, and is used to move the neutron target assembly to a second position, which is located beside the first position; the target body can be replaced at the second position.

[0013] The vacuum beam tube is used to guide the proton beam to pass through, and the ion beam passes through the vacuum beam tube and hits the target body, so that neutrons are generated at the target body. When installing the neutron target assembly, firstly place the neutron target assembly in the second position, install the target body in the neutron target assembly, and then move the neutron target component to a position close to the vacuum beam tube by the moving mechanism, and then start the disassembly mechanism to apply an external force to the neutron target assembly, so that the target body and the vacuum beam tube are sealed and connected at the first position, so as to realize the assembly of the vacuum beam tube and the neutron target assembly; when the target body needs to be replaced, the disassembly applies a reverse external force to the neutron target assembly, so that the target body and the vacuum beam tube are disconnected, and then start the moving mechanism to move the neutron target assembly to the second position, and replace the target body at the second position.

[0014] The specific technical concept of this scheme is: how to modularize the original structure of the neutron source system, and further determine the composition of movable and detachable modules to achieve the best and most efficient disassembly and assembly method. Then, as described in this technical scheme, this technical scheme designs the connection position between the neutron target assembly and the vacuum beam tube in the original structure of the neutron source system as a split point, and regards the neutron target assembly and the moving mechanism and disassembly mechanism for moving and disassembling the neutron target assembly as a whole movable and detachable module, which can achieve the best and most efficient disassembly and assembly under the premise of a small space. This technical scheme can quickly disassemble and assemble the neutron target assembly in a miniaturized BNCT treatment system under the premise of a small installation space, and it is also convenient to replace the target body, which is simple and fast, and solves the technical problems of complex disassembly and assembly, relatively high difficulty in disassembly and assembly, and insufficient operating space for automated disassembly and assembly devices or equipment.

[0015] The neutron target assembly, disassembly and assembly mechanism, moving mechanism and other structures in the technical solution are independent of other mechanical structures in the neutron source system. The disassembly and assembly process of the neutron target assembly is simple and quick, and the disassembly and assembly process will not have any negative impact on the overall performance, structure and function of the system, thereby ensuring the integrity and stability of the system, ensuring the normal operation of the system, realizing a modular structure, and realizing the organic combination of convenient disassembly and assembly and stable operation of the system.

[0016] Preferably, the neutron target assembly is detachable and slidably connected to the moving mechanism; the disassembly and assembly mechanism is fixedly connected to the moving mechanism, and the disassembly and assembly mechanism is fixed to a side of the neutron target assembly away from the vacuum beam tube; the disassembly and assembly mechanism includes a telescopic end, which is fixedly connected to the neutron target assembly, and the disassembly and assembly mechanism can drive the telescopic end to be telescopic, apply thrust or pull to the neutron target assembly, and make one end of the vacuum beam tube sealedly connected or disconnected from the target body.

[0017] Preferably, the neutron target assembly comprises a support seat, the support seat can be translated horizontally and longitudinally, a placement position is arranged on the support seat, and the target body is detachably connected to the placement position; the mobile lifting mechanism comprises a loading platform, the support seat is slidably connected to the loading platform, the loading platform extends horizontally, and the telescopic end is fixedly connected to a side of the support seat away from the target body;

[0018] The disassembly and assembly mechanism is fixedly connected to the moving mechanism; a horizontal longitudinal slide rail is arranged on the loading platform, and correspondingly, a slider is arranged at a corresponding position at the bottom of the support seat, and the slider is slidably connected to the horizontal longitudinal slide rail; the disassembly and assembly mechanism can drive the telescopic end to telescope along the horizontal longitudinal direction, thereby driving the support seat to translate along the horizontal longitudinal direction.

[0019] Preferably, the moving mechanism includes a vertical moving mechanism and a horizontal lateral moving mechanism, the vertical moving mechanism includes a fixed part and a telescopic part, the fixed part is slidably connected to the horizontal lateral moving mechanism, and the end of the telescopic part away from the fixed part is fixedly connected to the bottom of the loading platform; the horizontal lateral moving mechanism can be driven by external force to drive the fixed part to slide horizontally to the second position.

[0020] Preferably, the vacuum beam tube is fixed on a bracket, the bracket is fixed to the ground, and the bracket has a first docking plate extending horizontally; the first docking plate is docked with one end of the loading platform, and the edge of the first docking plate at one end for docking is provided with a first limiting structure for limiting the vertical position of the loading platform; correspondingly, one end of the loading platform has a first coupling member for coupling with the first limiting structure; the first limiting structure includes a plurality of first slots, the cross section of the first slot is a first trapezoid, and the upper side length of the first trapezoid is less than the lower side length;

[0021] The first coupling member is a first plug block, each of which is arranged at the edge of one end of the loading platform corresponding to each of the first slots, and the cross-section of the plug block is a second trapezoid, the upper side length of the second trapezoid is greater than the side length; and the upper side length of the first trapezoid is equal to the lower side length of the second trapezoid, and the lower side length of the first trapezoid is equal to the upper side length of the second trapezoid.

[0022] Preferably, the target body is symmetrically provided with a first limiter and a second limiter on both sides; correspondingly, the placement position is also symmetrically provided with a first placement groove and a second placement groove; the first placement groove and the second placement groove correspond to the positions of the first limiter and the second limiter respectively, and the first limiter and the second limiter can be respectively and correspondingly embedded in the first placement groove and the second placement groove; the distance between the opposite surfaces of the first placement groove and the second placement groove matches the peripheral size of the target body. The first limiter and the second limiter can limit the position of the target body at the placement position. In addition, the first limiter and the second limiter are simultaneously used as force application points when replacing the target body. The target body can be lifted or lowered by using an automated device or equipment to grab the first limiter and the second limiter, thereby facilitating the replacement of the target body.

[0023] Preferably, a cooling cavity is provided on the target body, and a first cooling tube and a second cooling tube are symmetrically provided on both sides of the cooling cavity; a large amount of heat deposition will be generated when the neutron target is bombarded by a proton beam, and the cooling cavity can cool the target body to ensure the performance stability during the neutron generation process; specifically, the interior of the cooling cavity is used to pass a cooling medium through the first cooling tube or the second cooling tube, and the cooling medium is used to cool the target surface, and correspondingly, the cooling medium can flow out from the second cooling tube or the first cooling tube;

[0024] The first cooling tube and the second cooling tube respectively extend outward from both sides of the cooling cavity along the horizontal horizontal direction to form a first tube section and a second tube section; the first tube section and the second tube section are respectively used as the first limiting member and the second limiting member, the first placement groove and the second placement groove correspond to the positions of the first tube section and the second tube section respectively, and the first tube section and the second tube section can be respectively and correspondingly embedded in the first placement groove and the second placement groove; the distance between the opposite surfaces of the first placement groove and the second placement groove matches the outer circumferential size of the cooling cavity; the extension length of the first tube section is greater than the width of the first placement groove along the horizontal horizontal direction, the extension length of the second tube section is greater than the width of the second placement groove along the horizontal horizontal direction, and the extension length of the second tube section is greater than the width of the second placement groove along the horizontal horizontal direction; it is convenient for the later automated equipment to grab the first tube section and the second tube section.

[0025] Preferably, one end of the vacuum beam tube is sealed and plugged into the target body at a first position.

[0026] Preferably, one side of the target body has a target surface, and an inserting portion is arranged around the outer periphery of the target surface, and the inserting portion is sealed and inserted with one end of the vacuum beam tube.

[0027] Preferably, the outer periphery of the plug-in portion has an outer frustum surface, and correspondingly, the inner periphery of the end portion of one end of the vacuum beam tube has an inner frustum surface, the outer periphery size of the outer frustum surface matches the inner periphery size of the inner frustum surface, and when the plug-in portion is plugged into one end of the vacuum beam tube, the outer frustum surface can be sealed and connected with the inner frustum surface.

[0028] When installing the target body, the telescopic end of the disassembly and assembly mechanism pushes the target body to be plugged into the vacuum beam tube, and by continuously applying thrust to the target body, the contact pressure between the outer frustum surface and the inner frustum surface is increased. Combined with the good surface roughness and fit of the outer frustum surface and the inner frustum surface, a better sealed plug-in with the vacuum beam tube can be achieved.

[0029] The present invention has the following beneficial effects: the neutron source system provided by the present invention can quickly disassemble and assemble the neutron target assembly in a miniaturized BNCT treatment system under the premise of a narrow installation space, and it is also convenient to replace the target body, which is simple and fast, and solves the technical problems of complex disassembly and assembly, relatively high difficulty of disassembly and assembly, and insufficient operating space for automated disassembly and assembly devices or equipment. The present invention is conducive to realizing mechanical automated target replacement operations, and can improve operation efficiency and operation quality while ensuring the safety of operators. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] In order to make the purpose, technical solution and advantages of the invention more clear, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0031] Figure 1 The figure is an overall schematic diagram of the docking of the neutron target assembly and the vacuum beam tube according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the neutron target assembly and the vacuum beam tube docking according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the structure of a neutron target assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 4 1 is a top view of the target body according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the support base structure according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure in which the plug-in portion according to an embodiment of the present invention is sealed and plugged into one end of a vacuum beam tube.

[0037] Figure 7 It is an exploded view of the assembly structure in which the plug-in portion according to an embodiment of the present invention is sealed and plugged into one end of a vacuum beam tube.

[0038] Figure 8 It is a schematic structural diagram of a preferred solution of a neutron target assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Fig. 9 This is a schematic diagram of a fully coupled structure of a loading platform, a first docking plate and a second docking plate according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Fig.10 This is a large-scale diagram of the local structure of the first docking plate of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Fig.11 This is a large-scale diagram of the local structure of the second docking plate of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Description of reference numerals: 1. vacuum beam tube; 11. inner cone surface; 12. bracket; 13. first docking plate; 131. first position-limiting structure; 132. first slot; 2. neutron target assembly; 21. target body; 211. plug-in portion; 212. outer cone surface; 213. first cooling tube; 214. second cooling tube; 215. first tube section; 216. second tube section; 217. target surface; 3. neutron target assembly; 31. support seat; 311. placement position; 312 , back plate; 313, first placement slot; 314, second placement slot; 315, slider; 32, disassembly and assembly mechanism; 321, telescopic end; 322, push plate; 33, loading platform; 331, horizontal longitudinal slide rail; 332, first plug-in block; 333, second plug-in block; 334, arc surface; 34, vertical moving mechanism; 341, telescopic rod; 35, horizontal transverse moving mechanism; 4, base; 41, second docking plate; 42, second limiting structure; 421, second slot. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] In order to more clearly explain the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail and completely in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the same reference numerals and letters in the accompanying drawings represent similar components. Once a component is defined in one drawing, it will not be repeatedly defined and explained in subsequent drawings.

[0044] The present invention can be applied to the field of neutron technology, and in particular to the subdivided technical fields related to neutron target structure and disassembly and assembly, and solves the technical problems in the prior art that, for a miniaturized BNCT treatment system, the installation method of the neutron target adopts a connection method of multiple bolts, which has complex disassembly and assembly and relatively high difficulty in disassembly and assembly. In addition, due to the small installation space of the neutron target, it also leads to the technical problem of insufficient operating space for the automated disassembly and assembly device or equipment.

[0045] Embodiment 1, based on the technical problems solved above, in the first aspect, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 Based on the technical problems solved above, the present invention provides a neutron source system for generating neutrons, comprising a vacuum beam tube 1 for guiding the beam to pass through; further comprising a neutron target assembly 32, comprising a target body 21, wherein the target body 21 is detachably connected to the neutron target assembly 32; the target body 21 is sealed and connected to one end of the vacuum beam tube 1 at a first position; further comprising a disassembly and assembly mechanism 32, which is used to apply an external force to the neutron target assembly 32 so that one end of the vacuum beam tube 1 is sealed and connected to or disconnected from the target body 21; further comprising a moving mechanism, which is detachably connected to the neutron target assembly 32, and the moving mechanism is used to move the neutron target assembly 32 to a second position, wherein the second position is located beside the first position; the target body 21 can be replaced at the second position.

[0046] The vacuum beam tube 1 is used to guide the proton beam to pass through, and the ion beam passes through the vacuum beam tube 1 and hits the target body 21, so that neutrons are generated at the target body 21. When installing the neutron target assembly 32, firstly, the neutron target assembly 32 is located at the second position, and the target body 21 is installed in the neutron target assembly 32, and then the neutron target component is moved to a position close to the vacuum beam tube 1 by the moving mechanism, and then the disassembly and assembly mechanism 32 is started to apply an external force to the neutron target assembly 32, so that the target body 21 and the vacuum beam tube 1 are sealed and connected at the first position, so as to realize the assembly of the vacuum beam tube 1 and the neutron target assembly 32; when the target body 21 needs to be replaced, the neutron target assembly 32 is disassembled and applied with a reverse external force, so that the target body 21 is disconnected from the vacuum beam tube 1, and then the moving mechanism is started to move the neutron target assembly 32 to the second position, and the target body 21 is replaced at the second position.

[0047] The specific technical concept of this scheme is: how to modularize the original structure of the neutron source system, and further determine the movable and detachable module composition, so as to achieve the best and most efficient disassembly and assembly method. Then, as described in this technical scheme, this technical scheme designs the connection position between the neutron target assembly and the vacuum beam tube in the original structure of the neutron source system as a split point, and regards the neutron target assembly and the moving mechanism and disassembly mechanism for moving and disassembling the neutron target assembly as a whole movable and detachable module, which can achieve the best and most efficient disassembly and assembly under the premise of narrow space. The technical scheme of this embodiment can quickly disassemble and assemble the neutron target assembly 32 in a miniaturized BNCT treatment system under the premise of narrow installation space, and also facilitates the replacement of the target body 21, which is simple and fast, and solves the technical problems of complex disassembly and assembly, relatively high difficulty of disassembly and assembly, and insufficient operating space for automated disassembly and assembly devices or equipment.

[0048] The neutron target assembly, disassembly and assembly mechanism, moving mechanism and other structures in the technical solution of this embodiment are independent of other mechanical structures in the neutron source system. The disassembly and assembly process of the neutron target assembly is simple and quick, and the disassembly and assembly process will not have any negative impact on the overall performance, structure and function of the system, thereby ensuring the integrity and stability of the system, ensuring the normal operation of the system, realizing a modular structure, and realizing the organic combination of convenient disassembly and assembly and stable operation of the system.

[0049] It should be noted that the drawings only show a partial structure of the vacuum beam tube 1. The other end of the vacuum beam tube 1 is also connected to other sealing structures. Since the other structures are not related to the present technical solution, they are not shown in the drawings.

[0050] Example 2, based on Example 1, please refer to Figure 2and Figure 3 The neutron target assembly 32 is detachable and slidably connected to the moving mechanism; the disassembly and assembly mechanism 32 is fixedly connected to the moving mechanism, and the disassembly and assembly mechanism 32 is fixed to the side of the neutron target assembly 32 away from the vacuum beam tube 1; the disassembly and assembly mechanism 32 includes a telescopic end 321, and the telescopic end 321 is fixedly connected to the neutron target assembly 32. The disassembly and assembly mechanism 32 can drive the telescopic end 321 to extend and retract, apply thrust or pull to the neutron target assembly 32, so that one end of the vacuum beam tube 1 is sealed and connected to or disconnected from the target body 21.

[0051] Example 3, based on Example 2, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The neutron target assembly 32 includes a support seat 31, which can be translated horizontally and longitudinally. A placement position 311 is provided on the support seat 31, and the target body 21 is detachably connected to the placement position 311; the mobile lifting mechanism includes a loading platform 33, the support seat 31 is slidably connected to the loading platform 33, the loading platform 33 extends horizontally, and the telescopic end 321 is fixedly connected to a side of the support seat 31 away from the target body 21;

[0052] The disassembly and assembly mechanism 32 is fixedly connected to the moving mechanism; a horizontal longitudinal slide rail 331 is arranged on the loading platform 33, and correspondingly, a slider 315 is arranged at a corresponding position at the bottom of the support seat 31, and the slider 315 is slidably connected to the horizontal longitudinal slide rail 331; the disassembly and assembly mechanism 32 can drive the telescopic end 321 to telescope along the horizontal longitudinal direction, thereby driving the support seat 31 to translate along the horizontal longitudinal direction.

[0053] Specifically, in Example 3, the placement position 311 is a groove, and the inner peripheral shape of the groove is adapted to the outer peripheral shape of the target body 21, and is used to support the target body 21. In Example 3, the disassembly and assembly mechanism 32 includes a driving device, and the driving device can be driven by a cylinder or a motor. The telescopic end 321 can follow the air pressure change of the cylinder to achieve the telescopic end 321 telescopic, or the telescopic end 321 can be telescopic through the power transmission of the motor. The driving device is preferably a cylinder, because in a radiation environment, radiation is likely to cause electromagnetic interference to the motor, and in a neutron radiation environment, the motor equipment may also be damaged. However, for the cylinder, compressed air is used as a power source, and the piston movement is driven by air pressure to achieve mechanical action, which does not involve the conversion and transmission of electrical energy, does not generate electromagnetic interference, is radiation-resistant, is not prone to structural damage, and has a long service life.

[0054] Example 4, based on Example 3, please refer to Figure 2, the free end of the telescopic end 321 has a push plate 322, and the push plate 322 is fixedly connected to the support seat 31 to drive the support seat 31 to slide horizontally and longitudinally. In order to make the movement of the target body 21 more stable, it is necessary to make the force center point of the telescopic end be located on the central axis of the target body 21, and at the same time, it is necessary to realize the fixed connection between the push plate 322 and the support seat 31. Then, as a preferred solution of Example 4, a back plate 312 is fixed on one side of the placement position 311, and the push plate 322 is fixedly connected to the back plate 312. When the target body 21 is correctly installed in the placement position 311, the force center point of the push plate 322 is located on the central axis of the target body 21. The function of the back plate 312 is to prevent the push plate 322 from directly acting on the target body 21 and damaging the structure of the target body 21.

[0055] Embodiment 5: When the target body 21 is installed on the placement position 311, the axis of the target body 21 coincides with the axis of the vacuum beam tube 1. In this way, the support seat 31 can only undergo horizontal and longitudinal displacements, with fewer control parameters, simpler control, and accurate positioning.

[0056] Embodiment 6: In practical application, the target replacement position in Embodiment 4 is located in a narrow space. The position setting of Embodiment 5 is not conducive to the replacement of the target body 21 by an automated device or equipment. Therefore, as a preferred solution, please refer to Figure 8 The moving mechanism includes a vertical moving mechanism 34 and a horizontal lateral moving mechanism 35. The vertical moving mechanism 34 includes a fixed part and a telescopic part. The fixed part is slidably connected to the horizontal lateral moving mechanism 35, and the end of the telescopic part away from the fixed part is fixedly connected to the bottom of the loading platform 33; the horizontal lateral moving mechanism 35 can drive the fixed part to slide horizontally to the second position through external force; the horizontal lateral moving mechanism 35 can drive the vertical moving mechanism 34 to slide horizontally, and the vertical moving mechanism 34 can drive the loading platform 33 to move vertically; the second position is set next to the first position, which can provide more space for target changing. Then, when changing the target, first control the horizontal lateral moving mechanism 35 to drive the vertical moving mechanism 34 to slide horizontally to the position where the axis of the target body 21 is parallel to the axis of the vacuum beam tube 1, and then control the vertical moving mechanism 34 to drive the neutron target assembly 2 to move vertically, so that the axis of the target body 21 coincides with the axis of the vacuum beam tube 1; then control the telescopic end 321 to extend and push the support seat 31 with the target body 21 correctly installed to slide toward the vacuum beam tube 1 along the horizontal longitudinal direction, and make the target body and the vacuum beam tube 1 sealed and connected.

[0057] In Embodiment 6, the vertical movement mechanism 34 uses a hydraulic telescopic rod 341, a pneumatic telescopic rod 341 or a ball screw transmission mechanism based on a servo motor to achieve vertical telescopic movement. The ball screw transmission mechanism based on a servo motor is preferred because of its higher precision.

[0058] Embodiment 7, based on Embodiment 6, it is also necessary to solve the technical problem of how to make the vertical moving mechanism 34 drive the neutron target assembly 2 to move to a suitable position so that the axis of the target body 21 coincides with the axis of the vacuum beam tube 1. The technical solution adopted in this embodiment is as follows:

[0059] See also Figures 8 to 10 The vacuum beam tube 1 is fixed on a bracket 12, and the bracket 12 is fixed to the ground. The bracket 12 has a first docking plate 13 extending horizontally; the first docking plate 13 docks with one end of the loading platform 33, and the edge of the first docking plate 13 used for docking is provided with a first limiting structure 131, which is used to limit the vertical position of the loading platform 33; correspondingly, one end of the loading platform 33 has a first coupling member, which is used to couple with the first limiting structure 131. In this way, the loading platform 33 can be limited to the target position during the rising process of the loading platform 33, so as to avoid the loading platform 33 from rising too high or deviating in the horizontal direction. Then, when changing the target, first control the horizontal lateral moving mechanism 35 to drive the vertical moving mechanism 34 to slide horizontally to the position where the axis of the target body 21 is parallel to the axis of the vacuum beam tube 1, and then control the vertical moving mechanism 34 to drive the loading platform 33 to move vertically to the position where the first limiting structure 131 and the first coupling member are fully coupled, so that the axis of the target body 21 coincides with the axis of the vacuum beam tube 1; then control the telescopic end 321 of the disassembly and assembly mechanism 32 to extend and push the support seat 31 with the target body 21 correctly installed to slide horizontally toward the vacuum beam tube 1, and make the target body and the vacuum beam tube 1 sealed and connected.

[0060] Further, as a preferred solution, please refer to Figure 8 and Fig.11The other end of the loading platform 33 is docked with the second docking plate 41, and the second docking plate 41 is fixed to the base 4. The edge of one end of the second docking plate 41 for docking is provided with a second limiting structure 42, which is used to cooperate with the first limiting structure 131 and limit the loading platform 33 in the vertical position to prevent one end of the loading platform 33 from being tilted due to force. Correspondingly, the other end of the loading platform 33 is provided with a second coupling member for coupling with the second limiting structure 42. Then, in step S3, firstly, the horizontal lateral moving mechanism 35 is controlled to drive the vertical moving mechanism 34 to slide horizontally to the position where the axis of the target body 21 is parallel to the axis of the vacuum beam tube 1, and then the vertical moving mechanism 34 is controlled to drive the loading platform 33 to move vertically to the position where the first limiting structure 131 and the first coupling member are fully coupled, and the second limiting structure 42 and the second coupling member are fully coupled, so that the axis of the target body 21 coincides with the axis of the vacuum beam tube 1; and then the telescopic end 321 of the disassembly and assembly mechanism 32 is controlled to extend and push the support seat 31 with the target body 21 correctly installed to slide toward the vacuum beam tube 1 along the horizontal longitudinal direction, and the target body is sealed and connected to the vacuum beam tube 1.

[0061] Specifically, the base 4 can be a wall or a fixed rod, a fixed support, a fixed bracket, etc., the purpose of which is to ensure that the position of the second docking plate 41 remains unchanged.

[0062] Specifically, in Example 7, please refer to Figure 3 , Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As one implementation of the first limiting structure 131, the first limiting structure 131 includes a plurality of first slots 132, the cross section of the first slots 132 is a first trapezoid, and the length of the upper side of the first trapezoid is less than the length of the lower side;

[0063] The first coupling member is a first plug block 332, each of which is arranged at the edge of one end of the loading platform 33 corresponding to each of the first slots 132, and the cross section of the plug block is a second trapezoid, the upper side length of the second trapezoid is greater than the side length; and the upper side length of the first trapezoid is equal to the lower side length of the second trapezoid, and the lower side length of the first trapezoid is equal to the upper side length of the second trapezoid;

[0064] In this way, when the vertical moving mechanism 34 drives the loading platform 33 to rise, the first plug block 332 can be inserted into the corresponding first slot 132 from bottom to top, and during the rising process of the loading platform 33, the inclined surface of the first slot 132 where the hypotenuse of the first trapezoid is located and the inclined surface of the first plug block 332 where the hypotenuse of the second trapezoid is located abut against and slide relatively; after the loading platform 33 reaches the target position, the inclined surface of the first slot 132 where the hypotenuse of the first trapezoid is located and the inclined surface of the first plug block 332 where the hypotenuse of the second trapezoid is located abut against each other and the inclined surfaces overlap.

[0065] Specifically, in Example 7, please refer to Figure 3 , Fig. 9 and Fig.11 As one implementation of the second limiting structure 42, the second limiting structure 42 includes a plurality of second slots 421, the cross section of the second slots 421 is a third trapezoid, and the length of the upper side of the third trapezoid is less than the length of the lower side;

[0066] The second coupling member is a second plug block 333, each of which is arranged at the edge of the other end of the loading platform 33 corresponding to each of the second slots 421, and the cross section of the second plug block 333 is a fourth trapezoid, the length of the upper side of the fourth trapezoid is greater than the length of the side; and the length of the upper side of the third trapezoid is equal to the length of the lower side of the fourth trapezoid, and the length of the lower side of the third trapezoid is equal to the length of the upper side of the fourth trapezoid;

[0067] In this way, when the vertical moving mechanism 34 drives the loading platform 33 to rise, the second plug block 333 can be inserted into the corresponding second slot 421 from bottom to top, and during the rising process of the loading platform 33, the inclined surface of the second slot 421 where the hypotenuse of the third trapezoid is located and the inclined surface of the second plug block 333 where the hypotenuse of the fourth trapezoid is located abut against and slide relatively; after the loading platform 33 reaches the target position, the inclined surface of the second slot 421 where the hypotenuse of the third trapezoid is located and the inclined surface of the second plug block 333 where the hypotenuse of the fourth trapezoid is located abut against each other and the inclined surfaces overlap.

[0068] Of course, the cross-sectional shape of the first slot 132, the second slot 421 and the corresponding first plug block 332 and the second plug block 333 is only one example of the embodiments. Other cross-sectional shapes, as long as the cross-sectional widths of the first slot 132 and the second slot 421 gradually increase from top to bottom, the cross-sectional widths of the first plug block 332 and the second plug block 333 gradually decrease from top to bottom, and the first slot 132 and the first plug block 332 can be adapted for plugging, and the second slot 421 and the second plug block 333 can be adapted for plugging, can all achieve the technical effect of limiting the loading platform 33, and can all be adopted, such as triangles, or other irregular shapes, etc., which are all within the protection scope of the present invention, and the specific shape descriptions will not be exhaustively described here.

[0069] As a preference, see Figure 3 The gap edges between each of the first plug-in blocks 332 and the gap edges between each of the second plug-in blocks 333 are respectively provided with arc surfaces 334, in order to increase the tolerance during the coupling process and prevent edge collision from causing structural damage.

[0070] Example 8, based on Example 3 or Example 4, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the first and second limiting members are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the target body 21; correspondingly, the first placement groove 313 and the second placement groove 314 are also symmetrically arranged on the placement position 311; the first placement groove 313 and the second placement groove 314 correspond to the positions of the first and second limiting members respectively, and the first and second limiting members can be respectively and correspondingly embedded in the first and second placement grooves 313 and 314; the distance between the opposite surfaces of the first and second placement grooves 313 and 314 matches the outer peripheral size of the target body 21. The first and second limiting members can limit the position of the target body 21 at the placement position 311. In addition, the first and second limiting members are simultaneously used as force application points when replacing the target body 21. The target body 21 can be lifted or lowered by using an automated device or equipment to grab the first and second limiting members, thereby facilitating the replacement of the target body 21.

[0071] Example 9, based on Example 8, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4, a cooling cavity is provided on the target body, and a first cooling tube 213 and a second cooling tube 214 are symmetrically provided on both sides of the cooling cavity; a large amount of heat deposition will be generated when the neutron target is bombarded by the proton beam, and the cooling cavity can cool the target body 21 to ensure the performance stability during the neutron generation process; specifically, the cooling cavity is used to pass a cooling medium through the first cooling tube 213 or the second cooling tube 214, and the cooling medium is used to cool the target surface 217, and correspondingly, the cooling medium can flow out from the second cooling tube 214 or the first cooling tube 213;

[0072] The first cooling tube 213 and the second cooling tube 214 respectively extend outward from both sides of the cooling cavity along the horizontal transverse direction to form a first tube section 215 and a second tube section 216; the first tube section 215 and the second tube section 216 are respectively used as the first limit member and the second limit member, the first placement groove 313 and the second placement groove 314 correspond to the positions of the first tube section 215 and the second tube section 216 respectively, and the first tube section 215 and the second tube section 216 can be respectively and correspondingly embedded in the first placement groove 313 and the second placement groove 314; the distance between the opposite surfaces of the first placement groove 313 and the second placement groove 314 matches the outer circumferential size of the cooling cavity; the extension length of the first tube section 215 is greater than the width of the first placement groove 313 along the horizontal transverse direction, the extension length of the second tube section 216 is greater than the width of the second placement groove 314 along the horizontal transverse direction, and the extension length of the second tube section 216 is greater than the width of the second placement groove 314 along the horizontal transverse direction; it is convenient for the later automation equipment to grab the first tube section 215 and the second tube section 216. During implementation, when the target body 21 needs to be installed, an automated device or equipment is used to grab the first pipe segment 215 and the second pipe segment 216, and the target body 21 is transferred to the placement position 311. When the target body 21 is disassembled, the first pipe segment 215 and the second pipe segment 216 are used to remove the target body 21 from the placement position 311. The disassembly and assembly process is simple.

[0073] See also Figure 4As one of the embodiments of the cooling cavity, the shape of the cooling cavity is a disc structure with a certain thickness, and the cooling cavity has a cavity inside for accommodating a cooling medium. The shape of the cooling cavity is not limited to a disc structure with a certain thickness, and may also be any other shape. In Example 9, optionally, the outer periphery of the first pipe segment 215 and the second pipe segment 216 are respectively matched with the inner periphery clearance of the corresponding first placement groove 313 and the second placement groove 314 or matched in size to facilitate the disassembly and assembly of the target body 21. In Example 5, preferably, the outer periphery of the first pipe segment 215 and the second pipe segment 216 are respectively interference fit with the inner periphery of the corresponding first placement groove 313 and the second placement groove 314 to prevent the target body 21 from slightly shifting in position during the movement of the neutron target assembly 3. In Example 9, preferably, the notches of the first placement groove 313 and the second placement groove 314 are respectively provided with chamfered portions, which are conducive to the positioning and installation of the first pipe segment 215 and the second pipe segment 216.

[0074] Example 10, based on Example 9, please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 , one end of the vacuum beam tube is sealed and plugged with the target body at a first position. The plug-in disassembly and assembly method can more conveniently and quickly realize the connection between the target body and the vacuum beam tube, which changes the traditional connection method. Combined with the moving mechanism, the purpose of replacing the target body on the side can be smoothly achieved. Specifically, as a preferred embodiment of Example 10, one side of the target body has a target surface, and a plug-in portion is arranged around the outer periphery of the target surface, and the plug-in portion is sealed and plugged with one end of the vacuum beam tube.

[0075] Example 11, as a further preferred embodiment of Example 10, please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the outer periphery of the plug-in portion 211 has an outer frustum surface 212, and correspondingly, the inner periphery of the end portion of one end of the vacuum beam tube 1 has an inner frustum surface 11, and the outer frustum surface 212 can be sealed and matched with the inner frustum surface 11. In Example 11, the surface roughness of the outer frustum surface 212 and the inner frustum surface 11 is 0.3-0.5, preferably 0.4. In Example 11, the material of the vacuum beam tube 1 and the plug-in portion 211 is aluminum alloy or stainless steel, preferably aluminum alloy. When installing the target body 21, the neutron target assembly 3 pushes the target body 21 to be plugged into the vacuum beam tube 1, and by continuously applying thrust to the target body 21, the contact pressure between the outer frustum surface 212 and the inner frustum surface 11 is increased, and combined with the good surface roughness and matching degree of the outer frustum surface 212 and the inner frustum surface 11, it can better achieve a sealed plug-in with the vacuum beam tube 1.

[0076] Specifically, the method for disassembling and assembling the target body 21 in Embodiment 11 comprises the following steps:

[0077] S1, placing the support base 31 without the target body 21 installed in the second position;

[0078] S2, grab the first and second stoppers of the target body 21, move the target body 21 to the placement position 311, and embed the first and second stoppers into the first placement groove 313 and the second placement groove 314, so that the target body 21 is correctly installed in the placement position 311;

[0079] S3, firstly control the horizontal lateral moving mechanism 35 to drive the vertical moving mechanism 34 to slide horizontally to the position where the axis of the target body 21 is parallel to the axis of the vacuum beam tube 1, and then control the vertical moving mechanism 34 to drive the loading platform 33 to move vertically to the position where the first limiting structure 131 and the first coupling member are fully coupled, so that the axis of the target body 21 coincides with the axis of the vacuum beam tube 1; control the telescopic end 321 of the disassembly and assembly mechanism 32 to extend and push the support seat 31 on which the target body 21 is correctly installed in step S2 to move horizontally and longitudinally toward the vacuum beam tube 1, and make the plug-in portion 211 and the vacuum beam tube 1 sealed and plugged in the first position;

[0080] S4, controlling the disassembly and assembly mechanism 32 to continuously apply thrust to the support seat 31, maintaining the sealed plug-in state between the plug-in portion 211 and the vacuum beam tube 1, maintaining the target body 21 at the first position, and completing the installation of the target body 21;

[0081] S5. When it is determined that the target body 21 needs to be replaced, the telescopic end 321 of the disassembly and assembly mechanism 32 is retracted, the support seat 31 is pulled away from the vacuum beam tube 1, the moving mechanism is controlled to move the neutron target assembly 2 to the second position, and then the first limiter and the second limiter of the target body 21 are grasped to move the target body 21 out of the placement position 311, and the disassembly of the target body 21 is completed;

[0082] S6. Repeat steps S2 to S5 to install and replace the target body 21.

[0083] In summary, the neutron source system disclosed in the present invention has the following technical effects:

[0084] 1. The neutron source system of the present invention is easy to disassemble and assemble, which is conducive to realizing mechanical and automated target replacement operations. Under the premise of ensuring the safety of operators, it can improve operation efficiency and operation quality.

[0085] 2. In the miniaturized BNCT treatment system of the present invention, the neutron target assembly can be quickly disassembled and assembled under the premise of a narrow installation space, and the replacement of the target body is also convenient and quick, which solves the technical problems of complex disassembly and assembly, relatively high difficulty of disassembly and assembly, and insufficient operating space for automated disassembly and assembly devices or equipment.

[0086] 3. In the improved solution of the present invention, the positions where the vacuum beam tube and the target body are plugged in are both frustum surfaces, which have a simple structure and good sealing performance.

[0087] 4. In the improved solution of the present invention, a pneumatic and purely mechanical structure is adopted to reduce the impact of the irradiation environment on the electromechanical equipment and ensure the stability of the entire system during the process of acquiring neutrons.

[0088] 5. The target replacement procedure is simple and reliable. The target body and the vacuum beam tube can be connected or disconnected by controlling the extension and contraction process of the disassembly and assembly mechanism.

[0089] 6. In order to facilitate the disassembly and assembly of the target body, a multi-directional moving device can be preferably configured to move the neutron target assembly to a position convenient for disassembly and assembly of the target body, and then use an automated device or equipment to disassemble and assemble the target body, and then use the multi-directional moving device to transport the neutron target assembly to the target position and dock with the vacuum beam tube. Among them, the vertical moving mechanism can be replaced with a servo motor + ball screw transmission mechanism, which has higher precision.

[0090] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that the orientation or positional relationship represented by the terms "center", "up", "down", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "inside", "outside", etc. is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or is the conventional placement orientation or positional relationship of the invention product when in use. The use of these terms is only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and does not mean that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as a limitation of the present invention. In addition, the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. are only used to distinguish different components or steps, and are not used to indicate or imply relative importance. In addition, the terms "horizontal", "vertical", etc. do not mean that the components must be absolutely horizontal or suspended, but allow a certain angle of inclination. For example, "horizontal" only means that its direction is closer to the horizontal state relative to "vertical", rather than requiring that the structure must be completely horizontal. In the description of the present invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "set", "install", "connect", "connect", etc. should be understood in a broad sense. For example, the connection may be a fixed connection, a detachable connection or an integral connection; it may be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it may be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it may be a connection between the two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0091] It should also be noted that the present invention is illustrated by several embodiments. Those skilled in the art should understand that, without departing from the core spirit and scope of the present invention, various modifications, adjustments or equivalent replacements may be made to the features in these embodiments. According to the guiding ideology of the present invention, technicians can make appropriate adjustments to the embodiments according to specific application scenarios and materials without exceeding the protection scope of the present invention. It should be pointed out that the embodiments described in the present invention are only part of the many implementation methods of the present invention, not all. The various components of the embodiments of the present invention shown in the accompanying drawings can be arranged and designed in different configurations according to actual needs. Therefore, the above detailed description of the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the protection scope of the present invention, but only an explanation of some embodiments of the present invention. The protection scope of the present invention should not be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative work should belong to the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A neutron source system for generating neutrons, characterized in that: include: A vacuum beam tube, used to guide the beam through; A neutron target assembly comprises a target body, wherein the target body is detachably connected to the neutron target assembly; the target body is sealed and connected to one end of the vacuum beam tube at a first position; A disassembly and assembly mechanism, used for applying external force to the neutron target assembly to seal or release one end of the vacuum beam tube from the target body; A moving mechanism is detachably connected to the neutron target assembly, and is used to move the neutron target assembly to a second position, which is located beside the first position; the target body can be replaced at the second position.

2. The neutron source system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The neutron target assembly is detachable and slidably connected to the moving mechanism; the disassembly and assembly mechanism is fixedly connected to the moving mechanism, and the disassembly and assembly mechanism is fixed to a side of the neutron target assembly away from the vacuum beam tube; the disassembly and assembly mechanism includes a telescopic end, which is fixedly connected to the neutron target assembly, and the disassembly and assembly mechanism can drive the telescopic end to extend and retract, apply thrust or pull to the neutron target assembly, and make one end of the vacuum beam tube sealedly connected or disconnected from the target body.

3. The neutron source system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The neutron target assembly includes a support seat, which can be translated in the horizontal longitudinal direction. The support seat is provided with a placement position, and the target body is detachably connected to the placement position; the mobile lifting mechanism includes a loading platform, the support seat is slidably connected to the loading platform, the loading platform extends horizontally, and the telescopic end is fixedly connected to a side of the support seat away from the target body; the disassembly and assembly mechanism is fixedly connected to the moving mechanism; a horizontal longitudinal slide rail is provided on the loading platform, and correspondingly, a slider is provided at a corresponding position at the bottom of the support seat, and the slider is slidably connected to the horizontal longitudinal slide rail; the disassembly and assembly mechanism can drive the telescopic end to extend and retract in the horizontal longitudinal direction, thereby driving the support seat to translate in the horizontal longitudinal direction.

4. The neutron source system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The moving mechanism includes a vertical moving mechanism and a horizontal lateral moving mechanism. The vertical moving mechanism includes a fixed part and a telescopic part. The fixed part is slidably connected to the horizontal lateral moving mechanism. The end of the telescopic part away from the fixed part is fixedly connected to the bottom of the loading platform. The horizontal lateral moving mechanism can be driven by external force to drive the fixed part to slide horizontally to the second position.

5. The neutron source system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The vacuum beam tube is fixed on a bracket, the bracket is fixed to the ground, and the bracket has a first docking plate extending horizontally; the first docking plate is docked with one end of the loading platform, and the edge of the first docking plate at one end for docking is provided with a first limiting structure for limiting the vertical position of the loading platform; correspondingly, one end of the loading platform has a first coupling member for coupling with the first limiting structure; the first limiting structure includes a plurality of first slots, the cross section of the first slot is a first trapezoid, and the upper side length of the first trapezoid is less than the lower side length; The first coupling member is a first plug block, each of which is arranged at the edge of one end of the loading platform corresponding to each of the first slots, and the cross-section of the plug block is a second trapezoid, the upper side length of the second trapezoid is greater than the side length; and the upper side length of the first trapezoid is equal to the lower side length of the second trapezoid, and the lower side length of the first trapezoid is equal to the upper side length of the second trapezoid.

6. The neutron source system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first and second limiting members are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the target body; correspondingly, the first and second placement grooves are also symmetrically arranged on the placement position; the first and second placement grooves correspond to the positions of the first and second limiting members respectively, and the first and second limiting members can be respectively and correspondingly embedded in the first and second placement grooves; the distance between the opposite surfaces of the first and second placement grooves matches the outer peripheral size of the target body.

7. The neutron source system according to claim 6, characterized in that: A cooling cavity is provided on the target body, and a first cooling tube and a second cooling tube are symmetrically provided on both sides of the cooling cavity; the first cooling tube and the second cooling tube respectively extend outward from both sides of the cooling cavity along the horizontal transverse direction with a first tube segment and a second tube segment; the first tube segment and the second tube segment are respectively used as the first limiting member and the second limiting member, the first placement groove and the second placement groove correspond to the positions of the first tube segment and the second tube segment respectively, and the first tube segment and the second tube segment can be respectively and correspondingly embedded in the first placement groove and the second placement groove; the distance between the opposite surfaces of the first placement groove and the second placement groove matches the outer circumferential size of the cooling cavity; the extension length of the first tube segment is greater than the width of the first placement groove along the horizontal transverse direction, and the extension length of the second tube segment is greater than the width of the second placement groove along the horizontal transverse direction.

8. The neutron source system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: One end of the vacuum beam tube is sealed and plugged into the target body at a first position.

9. The neutron source system according to claim 8, characterized in that: One side of the target body is provided with a target surface, and an inserting portion is arranged around the outer periphery of the target surface, and the inserting portion is sealed and inserted with one end of the vacuum beam tube.

10. The neutron source system according to claim 9, characterized in that: The outer periphery of the plug-in portion has an outer frustum surface, and correspondingly, the inner periphery of the end of one end of the vacuum beam tube has an inner frustum surface. The outer periphery size of the outer frustum surface matches the inner periphery size of the inner frustum surface. When the plug-in portion is plugged into one end of the vacuum beam tube, the outer frustum surface can be sealed and connected with the inner frustum surface.

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