Support frame, beam shaping body and neutron capture treatment system

Abstract

The invention provides a support frame, a beam shaping body and a neutron capture therapy system. The supporting frame comprises an outer wall and a partition unit arranged on the inner side of the outer wall, the partition unit is provided with at least one first fixing hole, and the at least one first fixing hole can be used for being connected with an auxiliary device. By means of the technical scheme, an operator can flexibly select a proper point position for installation according to the actually-installed auxiliary device, installation of the auxiliary device does not depend on an additional connecting structure any more, the auxiliary device can be directly connected with the supporting frame through the first fixing holes, and therefore the installation and fixing convenience of the auxiliary device is improved, and meanwhile the installation efficiency is improved. The occupation of the connecting structure on the treatment space can be effectively reduced, so that the problems of inconvenience in installation and fixation and easiness in causing treatment interference of an auxiliary device for cooperating with neutron capture treatment in the prior art are effectively solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of neutron capture therapy systems, specifically providing a support frame, a beam shaper, and a neutron capture therapy system. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of atomic science, radiation therapy, such as cobalt-60, linear accelerators, and electron beams, has become one of the main methods of cancer treatment. However, traditional photon or electron therapy is limited by the physical conditions of radiation itself. While killing tumor cells, it also damages a large amount of normal tissue along the beam path. In addition, due to the different sensitivities of tumor cells to radiation, traditional radiation therapy is often ineffective for more radiation-resistant malignant tumors (such as glioblastoma multiforme and melanoma).

[0003] To reduce radiation damage to surrounding normal tissues, the concept of targeted therapy in chemotherapy has been applied to radiotherapy. Furthermore, for highly radiation-resistant tumor cells, radiation sources with high relative biological effectiveness (RBE) are being actively developed, such as proton therapy, heavy ion therapy, and neutron capture therapy. Neutron capture therapy combines these two concepts; for example, boron neutron capture therapy utilizes the specific accumulation of boron-containing drugs on tumor cells, combined with precise neutron beam modulation, to provide a better cancer treatment option than traditional radiation. Summary of the Invention

[0004] During neutron capture therapy, when formulating a treatment plan or during irradiation treatment, factors such as the patient's treatment site, irradiation dose, patient condition during irradiation, and dose monitoring need to be considered. Correspondingly, different auxiliary devices need to be installed on or near the beam shaper to meet the different treatment needs of patients for positioning, monitoring, and detection, so as to ensure a reasonable irradiation dose and a safe irradiation environment.

[0005] However, existing auxiliary devices require additional connection or fixing devices when installed on or near the beam shaping body. This not only makes it inconvenient to install and fix the auxiliary devices, but also causes treatment interference, making it difficult to guarantee a reasonable radiation dose.

[0006] To address the problems of inconvenient installation and fixation, and the potential for treatment interference, in existing auxiliary devices used in neutron capture therapy, this invention provides a support frame. The support frame of this invention includes an outer wall and a partition unit disposed on the inner side of the outer wall. The partition unit has at least one first fixing hole, which can be used for connection with the auxiliary device.

[0007] The support frame of this invention can provide stable installation positions for components such as neutron shields and reflectors in a beam shaper. The support frame includes an outer wall and partition units disposed on the inner side of the outer wall, allowing the space enclosed by the outer wall to be rationally planned by the partition units. Each partition unit has at least one first fixing hole, which can be used to connect to an auxiliary device. The auxiliary device is directly connected to the support frame, which plays a major supporting role in the beam shaper, ensuring stable support when it is installed on the beam shaper. The first fixing holes on the partition units provide more installation positions for the auxiliary device, allowing operators to flexibly select suitable installation points based on the actual auxiliary device being installed. Therefore, through the above-described design, the installation of the auxiliary device no longer relies on additional connecting structures but can be directly connected to the support frame through the first fixing holes. This improves the ease of installation and fixation of the auxiliary device while effectively reducing the encroachment of connecting structures on the treatment space, thus effectively solving the problem in the prior art where auxiliary devices used in conjunction with neutron capture therapy are not only inconvenient to install and fix but also prone to causing treatment interference.

[0008] In the preferred embodiment of the above-described support frame, a beam through-hole is provided at the center of the support frame, and the first fixing holes are arranged radially outwards from the beam through-hole at intervals. With this arrangement, the beam through-hole is used to allow the neutron beam to pass through, and the first fixing holes are arranged at intervals outwards from the beam through-hole to facilitate the installation of auxiliary devices around the area where the beam irradiates the patient.

[0009] In the preferred embodiment of the above-described support frame, the partition unit includes a plurality of radial walls arranged circumferentially at intervals along the beam through-hole, each radial wall extending radially along the beam through-hole, and at least one first fixing hole disposed on the radial wall. Through this arrangement, the plurality of radial walls arranged axially at intervals along the beam through-hole provide mounting positions for the first fixing hole from multiple directions, thereby providing fixing points for auxiliary devices from multiple directions. This allows various types of auxiliary devices to be connected to the support frame through the first fixing hole, making the present invention applicable to a wider range of scenarios.

[0010] In the preferred technical solution of the above support frame, the radial wall is arranged in a "rice" shape. Through the above arrangement, the configuration of the radial wall surrounds the beam through-hole more evenly, so as to provide fixed points for the auxiliary device from 8 directions, enabling various different types of auxiliary devices to be connected to the support frame through the first fixing holes.

[0011] In the preferred technical solution of the above support frame, the separation unit includes a plurality of circumferential walls surrounding the beam through-hole, and adjacent circumferential walls are spaced apart from each other along the radial direction of the beam through-hole, and at least one of the first fixing holes is arranged on the circumferential wall. Through the above arrangement, the first fixing hole can be used for auxiliary devices that need to be arranged around the beam outlet.

[0012] In the preferred technical solution of the above support frame, the separation unit includes a plurality of partition walls, and the first fixing hole is provided at the intersection of two partition walls. Through the above configuration, setting the first fixing hole at the intersection of two partition walls can make full use of the material at the intersection and minimize the impact of opening the first fixing hole on the structural strength of the support frame.

[0013] In the preferred technical solution of the above support frame, the outer wall is arranged as a square frame-shaped member. Through the above arrangement, the square frame-shaped outer shape of the outer wall can be more conveniently fixed to the treatment room and connected to the bottom surface or other suitable bases through one side of the square frame.

[0014] In the preferred technical solution of the above support frame, the separation unit further includes a strengthening part, and both ends of the strengthening part are respectively connected to adjacent sides of the square frame-shaped member. Through the above arrangement, the strengthening part further improves the stability of the support frame to ensure that components such as the deceleration body, neutron shielding body or reflector arranged inside it are reliably supported, and also ensures that the auxiliary device can be stably fixed on the support frame.

[0015] In the preferred technical solution of the above support frame, the first fixing hole is provided at the connection between the strengthening part and the outer wall. Setting the first fixing hole at the connection between the strengthening part and the outer wall can make full use of the material at the connection and minimize the impact of opening the first fixing hole on the structural strength of the support frame.

[0016] In the preferred technical solution of the above support frame, except for the first fixing holes used to connect with the auxiliary device, the support frame can be connected to the cover plate assembly through the remaining first fixing holes. The beam shaping body usually has a cover plate assembly for preventing components such as the neutron shielding body and reflector from falling off the support frame. Through the above arrangement, the cover plate assembly can further strengthen the connection with the support frame through the first fixing holes; or replace the existing connection method with the support frame with the connection method of the first fixing holes.

[0017] To address the problems of inconvenient installation and fixation, and treatment interference, in existing auxiliary devices used in neutron capture therapy, this invention provides a beam shaping device. The beam shaping device of this invention includes a support frame and a cover plate assembly disposed on one side of the support frame. The support frame includes an outer wall and a partition unit disposed on the inner side of the outer wall. The partition unit has at least one first fixing hole on the side facing the cover plate assembly, which can be used to connect to the auxiliary device. With the support frame, the installation of the auxiliary device no longer relies on additional connecting structures but can be directly connected to the support frame through the first fixing hole. This improves the installation efficiency and connection stability of the auxiliary device, reduces the encroachment of connecting structures on the patient's treatment space, and enhances the convenience of installation and fixation of the auxiliary device. It also effectively solves the problems of inconvenient installation and fixation, and treatment interference, in existing auxiliary devices used in neutron capture therapy.

[0018] In the preferred embodiment of the aforementioned beam shaping device, a beam through-hole is provided at the center of the support frame, and the first fixing holes are arranged radially outwards from the beam through-hole at intervals. With this arrangement, the beam through-hole is used to allow the neutron beam to pass through, and the first fixing holes are arranged at intervals outwards from the beam through-hole to facilitate the installation of auxiliary devices around the area where the beam irradiates the patient.

[0019] In the preferred embodiment of the beam shaping device described above, the cover plate assembly includes a second fixing hole, and the first fixing hole and its corresponding second fixing hole can be used to connect with the auxiliary device. Through the above configuration, the cover plate assembly can effectively prevent components such as the neutron shield and reflector from detaching from the support frame.

[0020] In the preferred embodiment of the beam shaping body described above, the auxiliary device and the support frame are connected through the first fixing hole; the support frame and the cover plate assembly are connected through the first fixing hole and the second fixing hole. With this configuration, i.e., excluding the first and second fixing holes used for connecting to the auxiliary device, the cover plate assembly can be connected to the support frame through the remaining first fixing hole and its corresponding second fixing hole, thereby allowing the auxiliary device and the support frame to be easily connected to the support frame by fasteners extending through the second and first fixing holes.

[0021] In the preferred embodiment of the beam shaping device described above, the cover plate assembly includes a neutron shielding layer baffle, a reflector baffle, and a front baffle, sequentially located away from the support frame. The second fixing hole extends from the front baffle to the neutron shielding layer baffle. Through this configuration, neutrons are effectively blocked on the side facing the patient, ensuring that neutrons can only irradiate the patient's treatment area from the beam through-hole, and cannot leak from other locations on the beam shaping device, thus improving the safety of the equipment.

[0022] In the preferred embodiment of the aforementioned beam shaping device, a mounting groove is provided on the reflector baffle to accommodate the connection structure of the beam collimation device. By providing the mounting groove, the beam collimation device, which is compatible with the beam shaping device, can be installed on the side of the front baffle suitable for facing the patient, and its connection structure is accommodated in the mounting groove. This ensures the reliability of the beam collimation device's connection while reducing the beam collimation device's encroachment on the patient's treatment space, further avoiding treatment interference.

[0023] To address the problems of inconvenient installation and fixation, and the tendency to cause treatment interference, in existing auxiliary devices used in neutron capture therapy, this invention provides a neutron capture therapy system. The neutron capture therapy system of this invention includes a beam shaper and an auxiliary device. The beam shaper includes a support frame, wherein the support frame includes an outer wall and a partition unit disposed on the inner side of the outer wall. The partition unit has at least one first fixing hole, through which the auxiliary device can be connected to the support frame. With this design, the installation of the auxiliary device no longer relies on additional connecting structures, but can be directly connected to the support frame through the first fixing hole. This improves the installation efficiency and connection stability of the auxiliary device, reduces the encroachment of connecting structures on the patient's treatment space, and increases the space utilization rate of the equipment. Therefore, it effectively solves the problems of inconvenient installation and fixation, and the tendency to cause treatment interference, in existing auxiliary devices used in neutron capture therapy.

[0024] In the preferred embodiment of the above-mentioned neutron capture therapy system, a beam through-hole is provided at the center of the support frame, and the first fixing holes are arranged radially around the beam through-hole at intervals.

[0025] In the preferred embodiment of the aforementioned neutron capture therapy system, the auxiliary device includes a beam collimation device, a patient positioning device, and a monitoring and detection device. The beam collimation device ensures that the patient's treatment site receives precise irradiation with a neutron beam of appropriate intensity. The patient positioning device restricts the patient's movement during treatment, preventing displacement of the treatment site and damage to normal tissue. The monitoring and detection device allows for the detection of parameters such as the patient's posture, position, vital signs, beam intensity, irradiation location, and radiation intensity and temperature in the treatment environment, enabling precise treatment for the patient. Attached Figure Description

[0026] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the support frame of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of an embodiment of the beam shaping body of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the neutron capture therapy system of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the first embodiment of the neutron capture therapy system of the present invention equipped with auxiliary devices;

[0031] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the second embodiment of the neutron capture therapy system of the present invention with auxiliary devices installed;

[0032] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the third embodiment of the neutron capture therapy system of the present invention with auxiliary devices installed;

[0033] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the fourth embodiment of the neutron capture therapy system of the present invention with auxiliary devices installed;

[0034] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 An exploded view of a partial structure of a fourth embodiment of the neutron capture therapy system equipped with auxiliary devices.

[0035] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0036] 1. Neutron capture therapy system; 100. Beam shaping body; 10. Support frame; 11. Outer wall; 111. Front opening; 12. Separating unit; 121. First fixing hole; 1211. First direction; 1212. Second direction; 122. Separating wall; 123. Radial wall; 124. Circumferential wall; 125. Reinforcing part; 13. Transverse wall; 14. Vertical wall; 15. Beam through hole; 20. Cover plate assembly; 21. Second fixing hole; 22. Neutron shielding layer baffle; 23. Reflector baffle; 231. 24. Mounting slot; 300. Front baffle; 310. Auxiliary device; 320. Beam collimation device; 321. Patient positioning device; 321. Thermoplastic film; 3211. Thermoplastic headpiece; 3212. Thermoplastic body film; 322. Headrest; 330. Monitoring and detection device; 331. Patient positioning detection device; 3311. Mounting part; 3312. Scale; 3313. Laser device; 332. Beam detection device; 3321. Support; 3322. Detection module; 400. Accelerator; 500. Neutron generation part. Detailed Implementation

[0037] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0038] It should be noted that in the description of this invention, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0039] Furthermore, it should be noted that, in the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set" and "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection, an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or a connection within two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0040] Neutron capture therapy has seen increasing application as an effective cancer treatment method in recent years, with boron neutron capture therapy being the most common. Neutrons for boron neutron capture therapy can be supplied by nuclear reactors or accelerators. This application's embodiments use accelerator-based boron neutron capture therapy as an example. The basic components of accelerator-based boron neutron capture therapy typically include an accelerator for accelerating charged particles (such as protons, deuterons, etc.) and a neutron capture therapy system. The neutron capture therapy system includes a target material, a thermal removal system, and a beam shaper. The accelerated charged particles interact with the target material to produce neutrons. A suitable nuclear reaction is selected based on the required neutron yield and energy, the available energy and current of the accelerated charged particles, and the physicochemical properties of the target material. Commonly discussed nuclear reactions include...7 Li(p,n) 7 Be and 9 Be(p,n) 9 B. Both of these reactions are endothermic. The energy thresholds for the two nuclear reactions are 1.881 MeV and 2.055 MeV, respectively. Since the ideal neutron source for boron neutron capture therapy is hyperthermal neutrons at the keV energy level, theoretically, if protons with energies only slightly higher than the threshold are used to bombard a lithium metal target, relatively low-energy neutrons can be produced, which can be used clinically without much slowing treatment. However, the interaction cross-section between lithium metal (Li) and beryllium metal (Be) targets and protons at the threshold energy is not high. In order to generate a sufficiently large neutron flux, higher-energy protons are usually selected to initiate the nuclear reaction.

[0041] To address the problems of inconvenient installation and fixation, as well as the potential for treatment interference, in existing auxiliary devices used in conjunction with neutron capture therapy, this invention provides a support frame, a beam shaper, and a neutron capture therapy system.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of the support frame of the present invention. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the support frame 10 of the present invention includes an outer wall 11 and a partition unit 12 disposed on the inner side of the outer wall 11. The partition unit 12 is provided with at least one first fixing hole 121. The at least one first fixing hole 121 can be used for connection with the auxiliary device 300 ( Figure 4 (As shown in the diagram) Connection. Connection methods include, but are not limited to, screw connection, snap-fit ​​connection, etc. This eliminates the need for additional connection structures when installing the auxiliary device 300. Instead, it can be directly connected to the support frame 10 through the first fixing hole 121, thereby improving the installation efficiency and connection stability of the auxiliary device 300. It also reduces the encroachment of the connection structure on the patient's treatment space, improves the space utilization of the equipment, and effectively solves the problem in the prior art that auxiliary devices used in conjunction with neutron capture therapy are not only inconvenient to install and fix, but also prone to causing treatment interference.

[0043] Continue reading Figure 1 In some other embodiments, the partition unit 12 includes a plurality of partition walls 122, with a first fixing hole 121 at the intersection of two partition walls 122. Stress concentration typically occurs at the intersection of the partition walls 122, requiring higher material or structural strength at this location. By utilizing the higher structural strength at the intersection, the auxiliary device 300 can be stably fixed to the support frame 10 through the first fixing hole 121. Alternatively, the first fixing hole 121 can also be located at other suitable positions within the partition unit 12, such as in the middle section of any partition wall 122.

[0044] Continue reading Figure 1, in some other embodiments, a beam through-hole 15 is formed in the center of the support frame 10, that is, the partition unit 12 encloses the beam through-hole 15. The beam through-hole 15 allows a neutron beam to pass through. Additionally, a magnesium fluoride block may be disposed in the beam through-hole 15 as a basic part of the moderator, and the moderator is used to slow down the neutrons generated from the target to the epithermal neutron energy region. The first fixing holes 121 are radially arranged around the beam through-hole 15 at intervals. Exemplarily, as Figure 2 shown, the first fixing holes 121 are arranged at intervals in 8 different directions outwardly centered on the beam through-hole 15, and 4 first fixing holes 121 are provided in each direction, so as to facilitate the arrangement of the auxiliary device 300 near the neutron beam, thereby fixing the patient or detecting parameters, etc. Alternatively, the first fixing holes 121 may also be arranged to have more than 8 or less than 8 arrangement directions, such as 4 or 6 arrangement directions, and the included angles between adjacent arrangement directions are equal. Alternatively, the number of the first fixing holes 121 in each arrangement direction may also be set to be different, such as other numbers more than 4 or less than 4.

[0045] In some other embodiments, the partition unit 12 includes a plurality of radial walls 123 arranged at intervals along the circumferential direction of the beam through-hole 15. Each radial wall 123 extends along the radial direction of the beam through-hole 15. The space inside the outer wall 11 is separated by the radial walls 123 into a plurality of fan-shaped regions, so as to install components including but not limited to the moderator, reflector, and neutron shield, etc. in sub-regions. Each radial wall 123 may be configured as a flat plate or as a bent plate. At least one first fixing hole 121 is provided on the radial wall 123, so that the plurality of first fixing holes 121 are arranged along the radial direction of the beam through-hole 15. Further, the radial wall 123 may be configured as a "cross" shape, so that the space around the beam through-hole 15 is evenly divided into a plurality of fan-shaped regions with equal included angles, so as to accommodate components such as the moderator, reflector, or neutron shield with the same specifications; also, the first fixing holes 121 are evenly distributed around the outside of the beam through-hole 15, and the operator can find the installation position that best suits the patient currently receiving treatment among multiple different positions to fix the auxiliary device 300 and assist the patient in treatment. Alternatively, the setting of the radial wall 123 may also be cancelled according to actual needs.

[0046] In some other embodiments, the partition unit 12 includes a plurality of circumferential walls 124 surrounding the beam through-hole 15. Adjacent circumferential walls 124 are radially spaced apart from each other along the beam through-hole 15, forming a plurality of annular members with overlapping centers. The space inside the outer wall 11 is divided into a plurality of annular regions by the circumferential walls 124 to allow for the regional installation of components including, but not limited to, retarders, reflectors, and neutron shields. For example, retarders are installed in the inner annular region, reflectors are installed in the middle annular region, and neutron shields are installed in the outer annular region. At least one first fixing hole 121 is provided on the circumferential wall 124 such that the first fixing holes 121 can be arranged circumferentially along the beam through-hole 15 to facilitate the installation of auxiliary devices 300 that need to be arranged circumferentially along the beam through-hole 15. In some other embodiments, the first fixing hole 121 is provided at the intersection of the radial wall 123 and the circumferential wall 124. Alternatively, the circumferential wall 124 may be omitted as needed.

[0047] Continue reading Figure 2 In some other embodiments, the outer wall 11 is configured as a square frame member and includes two opposing transverse walls 13 and two opposing vertical walls 14. The transverse walls 13 may be configured to extend horizontally, and the vertical walls 14 may be configured vertically to facilitate embedding the beam shaper in the concrete wall of the treatment room. Alternatively, the transverse walls 13 and vertical walls 14 may be configured to extend in other directions; the outer wall 11 may also be configured in other suitable shapes as needed for installation.

[0048] Continue reading Figure 1 In some other embodiments, the partition unit 12 further includes a reinforcing portion 125. The two ends of the reinforcing portion 125 are respectively connected to adjacent sides of the outer wall 11, which is configured as a square frame member. That is, the two ends of the reinforcing portion 125 are respectively connected to adjacent transverse walls 13 and vertical walls 14, forming a roughly triangular area to enhance the stability of the support frame 10. Additionally, a neutron shield or other component to prevent neutron leakage may be provided in the triangular area. Alternatively, the reinforcing portion 125 may also be connected to other suitable locations on the outer wall 11. In some other embodiments, a first fixing hole 121 is provided at the connection between the reinforcing portion 125 and the outer wall 11. Stress concentration often occurs at the connection between the reinforcing portion 125 and the outer wall 11, and the material or structural strength at this location needs to be designed to be higher. By utilizing the higher structural strength of the connection, the auxiliary device 300 can be stably fixed to the support frame 10 through the first fixing hole 121.

[0049] In other embodiments, the outer wall 11 and the partition unit 12 may be fixedly connected, with connection methods including but not limited to screwing, riveting, or integral molding; alternatively, they may be spaced apart, so that the partition unit 12 only serves to separate components such as reflectors and decelerators within the outer wall 11. The outer wall 11 and the partition unit 12 are made of aluminum alloy. Alternatively, the outer wall 11 and the partition unit 12 may also be made of other materials with higher strength, such as steel or copper.

[0050] In some other embodiments, the auxiliary device 300 is connected to the support frame 10 through one or more first fixing holes 121, and the remaining first fixing holes 121 can be used to connect the support frame 10 and the mating cover plate assembly 20. Figure 2 (As shown in the image) connected together.

[0051] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of an embodiment of the beam shaping body of the present invention. (See attached image.) Figure 2 As shown, the beam shaping body 100 of the present invention includes the support frame 10 described above and a cover plate assembly 20 disposed on one side of the support frame 10.

[0052] Continue reading Figure 2 In some other embodiments, the first fixing hole 121 is adapted to be disposed on the side of the partition unit 12 facing the cover plate assembly 20. The cover plate assembly 20 includes a second fixing hole 21, and the cover plate assembly 20 and the support frame 10 are connected through the first fixing hole 121 and the second fixing hole 21. Further, at least one first fixing hole 121 corresponds to a second fixing hole 21, and the auxiliary device 300 and the support frame 10 can be connected through the first fixing hole 121 and its corresponding second fixing hole 21. Exemplarily, the fastener of the auxiliary device 300 extends through the second fixing hole 21 to be fixed together with the first fixing hole 121, so that the installation of the auxiliary device 300 no longer depends on an additional connection structure, but can be directly connected to the support frame 10 through the first fixing hole 121 and the second fixing hole 21, thereby improving the installation efficiency and connection stability of the auxiliary device 300, reducing the occupation of the patient's treatment space by the connection structure, improving the space utilization of the equipment, and thus effectively solving the problem in the prior art that auxiliary devices used for neutron capture therapy are not only inconvenient to install and fix, but also prone to causing treatment interference.

[0053] In some other embodiments, the outer wall 11 includes a front opening 111, and the cover assembly 20 can cover the front opening 111 to prevent components such as decelerators and reflectors disposed inside the support frame 10 from falling out. The auxiliary device 300 is connected to the support frame 10 through a portion of the first fixing hole 121 and the corresponding second fixing hole 21. The remaining first fixing hole 121 and second fixing hole 21 can be used to connect the cover assembly 20 and the support frame 10, thereby fixing the cover assembly 20 to the support frame 10. In alternative embodiments, other connection structures are also provided between the cover assembly 20 and the support frame 10. For example, a claw is provided at the edge of the front opening 111. When the cover assembly 20 covers the front opening 111, the claw closes to lock the cover assembly 20 and prevent it from falling out. Since the components inside the support frame 10 are made of heavy materials such as lead, the connection between the cover plate assembly 20 and the support frame 10 is reinforced by the first fixing hole 121 and the second fixing hole 21, which can further enhance the effect of the cover plate assembly 20 in preventing the components inside the support frame 10 from falling off.

[0054] Continue reading Figure 2 In some other embodiments, the cover assembly 20 includes a neutron shielding layer baffle 22, a reflector baffle 23, and a front baffle 24, sequentially located away from the frame. A second fixing hole 21 extends through the neutron shielding layer baffle 22, the reflector baffle 23, and the front baffle 24. The neutron shielding layer baffle 22 is used to shield leaked neutrons and photons to reduce the normal tissue dose in non-irradiated areas and can be made of materials such as lead, boron carbide, or polyethylene. The reflector baffle 23 is used to guide neutrons deviating from the centerline direction of the beam aperture 15 back to that centerline direction to increase the intensity of the hyperthermic neutron beam and can be made of materials such as lead or Teflon. The front baffle 24 may face the patient and can be made of materials such as lead or boron carbide, serving to protect the reflector baffle 23 and the neutron shielding layer baffle 22, and further reducing the intensity of gamma rays leaking from the front baffle 24. Alternatively, the cover assembly 20 may also include other suitable shielding plates or materials.

[0055] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the neutron capture therapy system of the present invention. The present invention also provides a neutron capture therapy system. The neutron capture therapy system of the present invention includes a beam shaper 100 and an auxiliary device 300, wherein the beam shaper 100 includes the aforementioned support frame 10.

[0056] In some other embodiments, the auxiliary device 300 includes, but is not limited to, a beam collimator 310, a patient positioning device 320, and a monitoring and detection device 330. The following will briefly describe some of the auxiliary devices 300.

[0057] like Figure 3 and4 As shown, in some other embodiments, the auxiliary device 300 includes a beam collimation device 310. The neutron capture therapy system 1 also includes an accelerator 400 for generating a charged particle beam P and a neutron generating unit 500 for generating a neutron beam after being irradiated by the charged particle beam P. The neutron generating unit 500 generates a neutron beam N after being irradiated by the charged particle beam P, and the beam collimation device 310 concentrates the neutrons generated by the neutron generating unit 500 for irradiation. In some other embodiments, the beam collimation device 310 can be connected to the support frame 10 through a first fixing hole 121 and a corresponding second fixing hole 21 arranged circumferentially along the beam through-hole 15.

[0058] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the first embodiment of the neutron capture therapy system of the present invention equipped with auxiliary devices; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the second embodiment of the ion capture therapy system of the present invention, equipped with auxiliary devices. (See diagram below.) Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the auxiliary device 300 also includes a patient positioning device 320, which is used for simulated positioning of the patient before treatment or positioning during treatment, that is, positioning the patient in the optimal irradiation treatment position before and during treatment. The patient positioning device 320 includes, but is not limited to, a thermoplastic film 321 and a headrest 322. The thermoplastic film 321 includes a thermoplastic head film 3211 and a thermoplastic body film 3212. The thermoplastic head film 3211 is fixedly connected to the beam collimation device 310, which can fix the patient's head near the beam exit of the beam collimation device 310 for treatment of lesions on the patient's head. The thermoplastic body film 3212 is connected to the support frame 10 through a first fixing hole 121 and a corresponding second fixing hole 21. Exemplarily, based on... Figure 5 As shown, the first fixing hole 121 and the second fixing hole 21 have eight arrangement directions, with adjacent arrangement directions having the same included angle. Starting from the uppermost column in the vertical direction, these eight arrangement directions are respectively labeled as the first direction 1211, the second direction 1212...the eighth direction in a clockwise direction. The thermoplastic film 3212 has four fixing points and is fixedly connected to the support frame 10 through the first fixing holes 121 in the third, fourth, sixth, and seventh directions, respectively. In an alternative embodiment, the thermoplastic film 321 may also be connected to the first fixing holes 121 in other suitable locations. Figure 5 As shown, the headrest 322 is connected to the support frame 10 through a plurality of first fixing holes 121 in the eighth direction. In an alternative embodiment, the thermoplastic film 321 and the headrest 322 may also be connected to the support frame 10 through first fixing holes 121 in other suitable positions according to the actual shape of the product.

[0059] Figure 6This is a schematic diagram of the third embodiment of the neutron capture therapy system 1 of the present invention equipped with auxiliary devices; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a fourth embodiment of the neutron capture therapy system 1 of the present invention, equipped with auxiliary devices. In some other embodiments, the auxiliary device 300 further includes a monitoring and detection device 330, which is used to acquire parameters during the neutron capture therapy process. These parameters include, but are not limited to, the patient's vital signs, the beam intensity of the equipment, the irradiation position, or the radiation intensity and temperature in the treatment environment, in order to provide precise treatment for the patient. The monitoring and detection device 330 includes, but is not limited to, a patient positioning detection device 331 and a beam current detection device 332.

[0060] like Figure 6 As shown, the patient positioning detection device 331 includes a mounting part 3311, a scale 3312 connected to the mounting part 3311, and a laser device 3313 slidably connected to the scale 3312. Based on Figure 5 As shown, the mounting part 3311 can be connected to the support frame 10 through a plurality of first fixing holes 121 on the first direction 1211. The scale 3312 is configured to extend in the horizontal direction. The laser device 3313 can emit a cross laser downwards, so that the operator can adjust the patient's position based on the cross laser, so that the patient's treatment area is directly opposite the beam outlet of the beam collimation device 310.

[0061] like Figure 7 As shown, the beam detection device 332 includes a support 3321 and a detection module 3322 slidably connected to the support 3321. Based on Figure 5 As shown, the support 3321 is connected to the support frame 10 through first fixing holes 121 and corresponding second fixing holes 21 in at least four directions. Exemplarily, it can be connected to the support frame 10 through first fixing holes 121 and corresponding second fixing holes 21 in the second, fourth, sixth, and eighth directions. Alternatively, the patient positioning detection device 331 and the beam detection device 332 can also be connected to the support frame 10 through first fixing holes 121 in other suitable locations, depending on the actual shape of the product.

[0062] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 An exploded view of a partial structure of a fourth embodiment of the neutron capture therapy system equipped with auxiliary devices. (See attached image.) Figure 8As shown, the neutron capture therapy system 1 includes an auxiliary device (e.g., a beam detection device 332) and a support frame 10. The auxiliary device is connected to a first fixing hole 121 on the support frame 10, eliminating its reliance on additional connection structures and allowing direct connection to the support frame 10, which provides support for the beam shaper 100. This improves the installation efficiency and connection stability of the auxiliary device. In some embodiments, a cover plate assembly 20 may be provided between the auxiliary device and the support frame 10 to prevent components such as decelerators and reflectors installed within the support frame 10 from falling off. Alternatively, the cover plate assembly 20 may be configured as other suitable devices, as long as the device does not interfere with the connection between the auxiliary device and the first fixing hole 121 on the support frame 10.

[0063] The above embodiments describe some of the auxiliary devices 300. However, in the actual application of the neutron capture therapy system 1, due to the complexity of the patient's treatment site, it is necessary to generate an individualized irradiation treatment plan. Accordingly, medical staff need to set different auxiliary devices 300 on the beam shaping body 100 to achieve the irradiation intensity, quality, or requirements that meet the irradiation treatment plan. Such devices include cameras for monitoring the patient's irradiation status during treatment or other devices for beam collimation, patient positioning, beam monitoring and detection, patient monitoring and detection, etc., which are not specifically limited here.

[0064] The following is combined with Figures 4-7The operation method of the neutron capture therapy system of the present invention is described in detail. After the operation begins, step S1 is executed first, in which the auxiliary device 300 is connected to the support frame 10 through at least one first fixing hole 121 and a second fixing hole 21. Then, step S2 is executed, in which the cover plate assembly 20 is connected to the support frame 10 through the remaining first fixing holes 121 and second fixing holes 21. The auxiliary device 300 is installed first so that it can be fixed to the support frame 10 through the most suitable first fixing hole 121, without being affected by the fasteners of the cover plate assembly 20. After the auxiliary device 300 is fixed, the remaining first fixing holes 121 and second fixing holes 21 can be used to reinforce the connection between the cover plate assembly 20 and the support frame 10, thereby further improving the effect of the cover plate assembly 20 in preventing components disposed inside the support frame 10 from falling out. It is worth noting that steps S1 and S2 can be interchanged. That is, the cover plate assembly 20 can be connected to the support frame 10 through the first fixing hole 121 and the second fixing hole 21 first, and then the auxiliary device 300 can be connected to the support frame 10 through at least one of the first fixing holes 121 and the second fixing hole 21. Alternatively, for some patients who do not need to install the auxiliary device, the cover plate assembly 20 can be connected to the support frame 10 through all of the first fixing holes 121 and the second fixing holes 21. For patients who need to install the auxiliary device, the auxiliary device can be quickly installed or fixed by removing the connecting bolts or other connecting parts on the first fixing holes 121 and the second fixing holes 21 in appropriate positions.

[0065] Continue reading Figure 4 When treating a patient, such as in a sitting or standing position, the patient can be in a seated or standing posture. The patient positioning detection device 331 is connected to the support frame 10 via a first fixing hole 121 on the first direction 1211 to detect or observe the patient's position; and the thermoplastic film 321 is placed through the middle and lower first fixing holes 121 (based on...). Figure 5 As shown, the first fixing hole 121 in the middle and slightly lower position (which can be the first fixing hole 121 in the clockwise direction from the third to the seventh direction) is connected to the beam shaping body 100, thereby wrapping the patient's head or other body parts, restricting their movement, and aligning the area to be treated with the beam outlet of the beam collimating device 310, so that the patient can be treated. Then, except for the first fixing hole 121 and the second fixing hole 21 used to fix the patient positioning detection device 331 and the thermoplastic film 321, the cover plate assembly 20 is connected to the support frame 10 through the remaining first fixing hole 121 and the corresponding second fixing hole 21, thereby further reinforcing the connection between the cover plate assembly 20 and the support frame 10.

[0066] Continue reading Figure 5When treating a patient's head or other areas of the body awaiting treatment, the headrest 322 can be used to stabilize the patient's head. The headrest 322 can be connected to the support frame 10 via a first fixing hole 121 and a corresponding second fixing hole 21 located in the eighth direction. The headrest 322 can then be adjusted to a position suitable for the patient currently receiving treatment by adjusting the cantilever. Finally, the cover plate assembly 20 is connected to the support frame 10 via the remaining first fixing hole 121 and corresponding second fixing hole 21, thereby further reinforcing the connection between the cover plate assembly 20 and the support frame 10.

[0067] Continue reading Figure 6 The patient may also need to receive treatment while lying flat. In this case, the patient lies flat on the treatment table, and the auxiliary device 300 (e.g., monitoring and detection device 330) is inserted through the first fixing hole 121 located above (based on...). Figure 5 As shown, the first fixing hole at the top can be connected to the support frame 10 along the clockwise direction from the seventh direction to the third direction (first fixing hole 121), thereby enabling detection or observation of the patient's treatment position.

[0068] Continue reading Figure 7 Before actual radiation irradiation, the parameters of the beam need to be tested using detection equipment to determine if they meet the requirements. Alternatively, during inspection and maintenance of the beam shaper 100, parameters such as the intensity and angle of the neutron beam need to be tested. The bracket 3321 of the beam detection device 332 can be connected to the support frame 10 through the first fixing hole 121 and the corresponding second fixing hole 21 surrounding the beam through-hole 15. The detection module 3322 on the bracket 3321 can then be exposed to the neutron beam to detect its intensity, angle, and other parameters. Then, the cover plate assembly 20 is connected to the support frame 10 through the remaining first fixing hole 121 and the corresponding second fixing hole 21, further reinforcing the connection between the cover plate assembly 20 and the support frame 10.

[0069] The technical solution of the present invention has been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of the present invention is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principles of the present invention, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after such changes or substitutions will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A support frame, characterized in that, The support frame includes an outer wall and a partition unit provided inside the outer wall. The partition unit is provided with at least one first fixing hole, and at least one of the first fixing holes can be used to connect with an auxiliary device.

2. The support frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, A beam through-hole is formed at the center of the support frame, and the first fixing holes are radially arranged at intervals around the beam through-hole.

3. The support frame according to claim 2, characterized in that, The partition unit includes a plurality of radial walls arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the beam through-hole. Each radial wall extends radially along the beam through-hole, and at least one of the first fixing holes is provided on the radial wall.

4. The support frame according to claim 3, characterized in that, The radial walls are arranged in a "rice" shape.

5. The support frame according to claim 2, characterized in that, The partition unit includes a plurality of circumferential walls surrounding the beam through-hole. Adjacent circumferential walls are spaced apart from each other radially along the beam through-hole, and at least one of the first fixing holes is provided on the circumferential wall.

6. The support frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The partition unit includes a plurality of partition walls, and the first fixing hole is provided at the intersection of two partition walls.

7. The support frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer wall is arranged as a square frame member; the partition unit further includes a reinforcing part, and two ends of the reinforcing part are respectively connected to adjacent sides of the square frame member; the first fixing hole is provided at the connection between the reinforcing part and the outer wall.

8. A beam shaper, characterized in that, The beam shaper includes a support frame and a cover plate assembly provided on one side of the support frame, wherein, The support frame includes an outer wall and a partition unit provided inside the outer wall. At least one first fixing hole is provided on a side of the partition unit facing the cover plate assembly, and at least one of the first fixing holes can be used to connect with an auxiliary device.

9. The beam shaper according to claim 8, characterized in that, The cover plate assembly includes a second fixing hole, and the first fixing hole and its corresponding second fixing hole can be used to connect with the auxiliary device.

10. The beam shaper according to claim 9, wherein, The auxiliary device and the support frame are connected through the first fixing hole; the support frame and the cover plate assembly are connected through the first fixing hole and the second fixing hole.

11. The beam shaper according to claim 9, characterized in that, The cover plate assembly includes a neutron shielding layer baffle, a reflector baffle and a front baffle that are sequentially away from the support frame, and the second fixing hole extends from the front baffle to the neutron shielding layer baffle.

12. A neutron capture therapy system, characterized in that, The neutron capture therapy system includes a beam shaper and an auxiliary device. The beam shaper includes a support frame, wherein, The support frame includes an outer wall and a partition unit provided inside the outer wall. At least one first fixing hole is provided on the partition unit, and the auxiliary device can be connected to the support frame through at least one of the first fixing holes.

13. The neutron capture therapy system according to claim 12, characterized in that, The auxiliary device includes a beam collimation device, a patient positioning device, a monitoring and detection device.

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