Metal window ion chamber and radiation device comprising same

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention relates to a metal window ion chamber and a radiation device comprising the same. An ion chamber includes a first ion chamber window assembly and an ion chamber housing having a first opening. The first ion chamber window assembly includes a first ion chamber window and a first metal coating disposed at a peripheral edge of the first ion chamber window, wherein the first ion chamber window is formed of at least a first metal and has a first surface exposed through a first opening. The first metal plating layer is formed of a second metal. The first metal is different from the second metal, and the first ion chamber window assembly is fixed on an inner side of the ion chamber housing at a periphery of the first opening via the first metal coating.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One or more example embodiments relate to an ionization chamber and a radiation device including the ionization chamber. Background Technology

[0002] The radiation device includes a monitoring ionization (ionization) chamber for measuring, for example, the dose distribution profile of the radiation beam delivered by the device. Traditionally, the ionization chamber includes a window and electrodes formed of a polyimide film, such as Kapton® polyimide film. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The independent claims define the scope of protection sought for the various exemplary embodiments. Exemplary embodiments and / or features (if any) described in this specification that are not within the scope of the independent claims are to be interpreted as examples that aid in understanding the various embodiments.

[0004] Regardless of grammatical usage, individuals with male and female characteristics are also included in the terminology.

[0005] At least one example embodiment provides an ion chamber comprising: a first ion chamber window assembly and an ion chamber housing having a first opening. The first ion chamber window assembly includes a first ion chamber window and a first metal plating disposed at a peripheral edge of the first ion chamber window. The first ion chamber window is formed of at least a first metal and has a first surface exposed through the first opening. The first metal plating is formed of a second metal different from the first metal. The first ion chamber window assembly is fixed to the inner side of the ion chamber housing at the periphery of the first opening via the first metal plating.

[0006] At least one other example embodiment provides a radiation device comprising: a radiation source configured to emit a radiation beam toward a patient; a radiation beam modulation structure configured to modulate one or more characteristics of the radiation beam; and an ion chamber disposed in the path of the radiation beam, the ion chamber being configured to monitor one or more characteristics of the radiation beam. The ion chamber includes: a first ion chamber window assembly and an ion chamber housing having a first opening. The first ion chamber window assembly includes a first ion chamber window and a first metal plating disposed at a peripheral edge of the first ion chamber window. The first ion chamber window is formed of at least a first metal and has a first surface exposed through the first opening. The first metal plating is formed of a second metal different from the first metal. The first ion chamber window assembly is fixed to the inner side of the ion chamber housing at the periphery of the first opening via the first metal plating.

[0007] According to one or more example embodiments, the first metal may be aluminum, such as 5052 H19 aluminum. The first metal plating may be a nickel plating.

[0008] The first metal coating may be formed only at the outer edge of the first ion chamber window and / or the first metal coating may be formed outside the beam path passing through the ion chamber.

[0009] The first metal plating layer can be welded to the inside of the ion chamber shell.

[0010] According to one or more example embodiments, an ion chamber housing may include a first portion having a first opening and a second portion having a second opening, wherein the first and second portions are configured to be secured to each other to form the ion chamber housing. The first and second openings may be located at opposite ends of the ion chamber, and a first ion chamber window assembly may be secured to the inside of the first portion of the ion chamber housing. The ion chamber may include a second ion chamber window assembly secured to the inside of the second portion of the ion chamber housing. A second surface of the second ion chamber window assembly may be exposed through the second opening.

[0011] The second ion chamber window assembly may include a second ion chamber window and a second metal plating disposed at the peripheral edge of the second ion chamber window. The second ion chamber window may be formed of at least a first metal, the second metal plating may be formed of a second metal, and the second ion chamber window assembly may be fixed to the inner side of a second portion of the ion chamber housing via the second metal plating.

[0012] The ion chamber may further include: a third ion chamber window assembly disposed within the ion chamber housing between the first ion chamber window assembly and the second ion chamber window assembly; and a window support structure fixed to an internal portion of the ion chamber housing. The window support structure may be configured to support the third ion chamber window assembly.

[0013] The third ion chamber window assembly may include a third ion chamber window and a third metal plating at the outer edge of the third ion chamber window. The third ion chamber window may be formed of at least a first metal, and the third metal plating may be formed of a second metal. The third metal plating may be welded to the window support structure.

[0014] The ion chamber may further include: a first electrode assembly disposed between the first ion chamber window assembly and the third ion chamber window assembly; and a second electrode assembly disposed between the second ion chamber window assembly and the third ion chamber window assembly. The third ion chamber window assembly may be disposed between the first electrode assembly and the second electrode assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The exemplary embodiments will be more fully understood from the detailed description and accompanying drawings given below, wherein the same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, which are given by way of illustration only and therefore do not limit this disclosure.

[0016] Figure 1This is a block diagram illustrating a radiation device including a metal window ionization chamber according to an example embodiment;

[0017] Figure 2A This is a plan view of the target side of the metal window ion chamber according to an example embodiment;

[0018] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A The patient-side plan view of the metal window ionization chamber shown;

[0019] Figure 2C yes Figure 2A and Figure 2B A perspective view of the patient side of the metal window ionization chamber shown.

[0020] Figure 3 yes Figures 2A-2C The cross-sectional view of the metal window ion chamber shown;

[0021] Figure 4 yes Figure 2A A perspective view of the interior of the target-side body portion shown;

[0022] Figure 5 yes Figure 2B A perspective view of the interior of the patient-side body portion is shown; and

[0023] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the ion chamber window assembly according to an example embodiment.

[0024] It should be noted that these figures are intended to illustrate the general characteristics of the methods, structures, and / or materials used in certain exemplary embodiments and to supplement the written description provided below. However, these figures are not drawn to scale and may not accurately reflect the precise structural or performance characteristics of any given embodiment, nor should they be construed as defining or limiting the range of values ​​or properties included in the exemplary embodiments. The use of similar or identical reference numerals in the various figures is intended to indicate the presence of similar or identical elements or features. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Various exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, some of which illustrate exemplary embodiments.

[0026] Detailed illustrative embodiments are disclosed herein. However, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments only. These exemplary embodiments may be embodied in many alternative forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0027] It should be understood that the exemplary embodiments are not intended to limit the specific forms disclosed. Rather, the exemplary embodiments will cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of this disclosure. Throughout the description of the drawings, the same numbers refer to the same elements.

[0028] As described in this article, the terms “one or more” and “at least one” are used interchangeably.

[0029] It should be understood that multiple example embodiments can be used in combination.

[0030] One or more exemplary embodiments may be described herein with reference to the “upper” and “lower” portions and / or the “target side” and “patient side” portions. However, it should be understood that the terminology is for illustrative purposes only. In this regard, depending on the orientation and / or implementation, the “upper” portion may be the “lower” portion (and vice versa), and the “patient side” portion may be the “target side” portion (and vice versa).

[0031] Ionization (ionization) chambers are described herein in conjunction with radiation systems or apparatuses, based on exemplary embodiments. However, it should be noted that while various exemplary embodiments are described in conjunction with radiation systems or apparatuses used in medicine, the scope of this disclosure or the claims should not be so limited. The ionization chambers and principles described herein can be used in other applications or industries, such as environmental monitoring, research laboratories, etc.

[0032] Figure 1 A radiation device (also known as a radiation therapy device or system) comprising a metal window ion chamber (also simply referred to as an ion chamber) according to an example embodiment is shown.

[0033] refer to Figure 1 The radiation device 100 includes a radiation source 102 configured to generate or emit radiation beams 104, 112, such as photons, electrons, protons, or other types of radiation. For example, the radiation source 102 may include a metallic target configured to generate a photon beam or an X-ray beam upon electron impact.

[0034] The radiation device 100 also includes radiation beam conditioning structures (106, 107, 108, 114) that include various collimating devices or components configured to limit, define, and / or modify the size, shape, flux, and other characteristics of the beam. For example, the radiation beam conditioning structures include a primary collimator 106 and (optionally) a secondary collimator 107 adjacent to the radiation source 102 to generally limit the divergence of the radiation beams 104, 112 as they leave the radiation source 102.

[0035] The beam conditioning structure also includes a multi-leaf collimator (MLC) 108 and a planarization filter 114. The MLC 108 is located between the radiation source 102 and the patient 110 and is used to shape the beam. The MLC 108 can rotate about the central axis of the beam 112, which passes through the radiation source 102 and is perpendicular to the isocentric plane, thereby placing the MLC 108 in various orientations.

[0036] Planarization filter 114 is positioned in the beam path between primary collimator 106 and secondary collimator 107 to modify the beam profile. In other example embodiments, planarization filter 114 may be omitted, or the radiation device 100 may be without a planarization filter (FFF) to improve the dose rate of treatment.

[0037] Still referencing Figure 1 The radiation device 100 also includes a metal window ion chamber 116 arranged in the beam path between a planarization filter 114 and a secondary collimator 107. In at least one example embodiment, the ion chamber 116 is configured to monitor one or more characteristics of the beams 104, 112 from the radiation source 102. More specifically, for example, the ion chamber 116 may be configured to measure dose distribution profiles of the beams 104, 112, such as beam uniformity in the treatment field, beam symmetry about the beam's central axis, beam alignment and / or directionality, etc. As will be described in more detail below, the ion chamber 116 may include a housing providing a closed volume for the gas, spaced-apart electrodes, and a metal (not polyimide) window. In operation, the gas in the ion chamber 116 is ionized by radiation to produce ion pairs. The spaced-apart electrodes generate an electric field, causing the ion pairs to migrate under the influence of the electric field. The signal derived from the ion pairs (which is proportional to the radiation intensity) can be measured and / or analyzed by a circuit system and used to control the operation of the radiation device 100.

[0038] The following will refer to Figures 2A-6 The structure of the metal window ion chamber according to the example embodiment will be discussed in more detail.

[0039] Still referencing Figure 1 The radiation source 102, primary collimator 106, secondary collimator 107, MLC 108, ion chamber 116, and other devices or components may be enclosed in a gantry 118 (such as a ring gantry or a C-arm gantry) that can rotate about an axis such as a horizontal axis; or enclosed in a housing that can be moved by a robotic arm. Therefore, the radiation device 100 can deliver radiation to a target in the patient 110 from various angles, and one or more characteristics of the radiation beam 104 can be monitored as the beam angle steps or sweeps around the target. The radiation device 100 also includes a control system 120 configured to control the operation of the radiation source 102, ion chamber 116, and / or other components of the radiation device 100.

[0040] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A plan view of the target side of an example embodiment of the ion chamber 116 shown. Figure 2B yes Figure 2A The patient-side plan view of the ionization chamber 116 is shown. Figure 2C yes Figure 2A and Figure 2B A perspective view of the patient side of the ionization chamber 116 shown. Figure 3 It is along Figure 2C A cross-sectional view of ion chamber 116 of AA.

[0041] refer to Figures 2A-2C Ion chamber 116 includes an ion chamber housing 1000 (also referred to as the ion chamber body or body assembly) that provides an enclosed volume for internal components, including, for example, electrode assemblies, clamping assemblies, support structures, and one or more ion chamber window assemblies. The housing 1000 may be sealed to enclose a gas, such as air or other suitable gas that can be ionized by radiation. Alternatively, the housing 1000 may be unsealed. The housing 1000 may be made of a copper-plated metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel. In some example embodiments, the entire housing 1000 may be copper-plated. However, in other examples, only certain portions of the housing 1000 may be copper-plated. For example, portions of the housing 1000 to which the plated ion chamber window is fastened and / or secured (e.g., welded) may be copper-plated.

[0042] For example, housing 1000 may include at least a target-side metal portion 1002 (also referred to as a target-side housing portion) and a patient-side metal portion 1004 (also referred to as a patient-side housing portion), which are configured to engage with each other and be secured to each other to form housing 1000.

[0043] Figure 4 yes Figure 2A A perspective view of the interior of the target-side metal portion 1002 shown. Figure 5 yes Figure 2B A perspective view of the interior of the patient-side metal portion 1004 shown.

[0044] refer to Figures 2A-2C , Figure 4 and Figure 5The target-side metal portion 1002 and the patient-side metal portion 1004 are annular, each portion having a corresponding opening in the middle (or central) portion, region, or area of ​​the ring. When engaged with each other, the corresponding openings are at opposite ends of the ionization chamber 116, and the mating surfaces of the target-side metal portion 1002 and the patient-side metal portion 1004 can be sealed by any suitable mechanism to provide an airtight seal between these portions. The target-side metal portion 1002 and the patient-side metal portion 1004 can be secured to each other via one or more bolts, screws, etc. Although the exemplary embodiment is described with respect to annular shape, the exemplary embodiment should not be limited to this example.

[0045] like Figure 2A and Figure 4 As shown, the target-side ion chamber window assembly 200 (also referred to as the first ion chamber window assembly or the second ion chamber window assembly) is fixed across the opening of the target-side metal portion 1002. In at least one example embodiment, the peripheral edge of the ion chamber window assembly 200 may be fixed (e.g., permanently fixed) to the inside of the target-side metal portion 1002. In one example, the peripheral edge of the ion chamber window assembly 200 may be welded, fused, or brazed to the inside of the target-side metal portion 1002 to create an airtight seal.

[0046] like Figure 4 As shown, the ion chamber window assembly 200 includes an ion chamber window 2000 and a metal plating 2002 formed at the peripheral edge of the ion chamber window 2000. The ion chamber window 2000 may be formed of at least a first metal, and the metal plating 2002 may be formed of a second metal. The first metal and the second metal may be different. The ion chamber window 2000 is exposed through an opening in the target-side metal portion 1002.

[0047] like Figure 2B , Figure 2C and Figure 5 As shown, the patient-side ion chamber window assembly 240 (also referred to as the first ion chamber window assembly or the second ion chamber window assembly) is secured across the opening of the patient-side metal portion 1004. In at least one example embodiment, the peripheral edge of the ion chamber window assembly 240 may be secured (e.g., permanently secured) to the inside of the patient-side metal portion 1004. In one example, the peripheral edge of the ion chamber window assembly 240 may be welded, fused, or brazed to the inside of the patient-side metal portion 1004 to create an airtight seal. Figure 5 As shown, the ion chamber window assembly 240 includes an ion chamber window 2400 and a metal plating 2002 formed at the peripheral edge of the ion chamber window 2400. The ion chamber window 2400 may be formed of at least a first metal and is exposed through an opening in the target-side metal portion 1002.

[0048] like Figure 3 As shown, the ion chamber 116 also includes a central ion chamber window assembly 220 (also referred to as a third ion chamber window assembly) disposed at a vertically central position between the ion chamber window assembly 200 and the ion chamber window assembly 240. The central ion chamber window assembly 220 is fixed (e.g., permanently fixed) to and supported by a central window support member 2220 (also referred to as a window support structure), which is further supported by the housing 1000. In one example, the peripheral edge of the ion chamber window assembly 220 may be welded, fused, or brazed to the central window support member 2220 to create an airtight seal.

[0049] The central window support member 2220 may be annular and fitted into a recess in the inner periphery of the housing 1000. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the peripheral edge of the central ion chamber window assembly 220 may be secured to the patient side of the central window support member 2220. However, the exemplary embodiment should not be limited to this example. Similar to the ion chamber window assemblies 200 and 240 described above, the central ion chamber window assembly 220 includes an ion chamber window 2200 and a metal plating 2002 formed at the peripheral edge of the ion chamber window 2200. The ion chamber window 2200 may be formed of at least a first metal.

[0050] Still referencing Figure 3 The ion chamber 116 also includes a first electrode assembly 3000 and a second electrode assembly 3200. The first electrode assembly 3000 is disposed between the ion chamber window assembly 200 and the central ion chamber window assembly 220. A first annular clamping assembly 3020 is provided to secure the first electrode assembly 3000 within the ion chamber 116.

[0051] The first annular clamping assembly 3020 includes an upper ring portion 30202 and a lower ring portion 30206 separated by a spacer ring 30204. The upper ring portion 30202 is fastened to the lower ring portion 30206 by one or more screws, bolts, etc. When fastened, the upper ring portion 30202 and the lower ring portion 30206 clamp the spacer ring 30204 and the first electrode assembly 3000 to secure these assemblies in place within the ion chamber 116.

[0052] The second electrode assembly 3200 is disposed between the ion chamber window assembly 240 and the central ion chamber window assembly 220. In this respect, the central ion chamber window assembly 220 is located between the first electrode assembly 3000 and the second electrode assembly 3200. A second ring clamping assembly 3022 is provided to secure the second electrode assembly 3200 within the ion chamber 116. The second ring clamping assembly 3022 may be the same as or substantially the same as the first ring clamping assembly 3020; therefore, for the sake of brevity, a detailed discussion is omitted.

[0053] Each of the first electrode assembly 3000 and the second electrode assembly 3200 includes a high-voltage electrode and a measuring or collecting electrode spaced apart from each other by a spacer ring 30204. The collecting electrode may include a pattern of conductive material formed or deposited on an insulating film or plate. Thus, the collecting electrode may include electrode assemblies that are patterned, segmented, or arranged to measure different combinations of radiation passing through the ionization chamber 116, thereby providing information about the radiation profile, such as intensity, beam uniformity across the treatment field, beam symmetry about the beam central axis, beam alignment, and / or directionality.

[0054] The ion chamber 116 also includes a plurality of terminals 1010 electrically connected to electrodes within the housing 1000. The terminals 1010 provide operating voltage to the electrodes and output signals to a circuit system (e.g., control system 120) for measurement and / or further analysis.

[0055] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of an example embodiment of the metal ion chamber window assembly 600. At least one or all of the metal ion chamber window assemblies 200, 220, and 240 can be coupled with… Figure 6 The metal ion chamber window assembly 600 shown is the same or substantially the same.

[0056] refer to Figure 6 The metal ion chamber window assembly 600 includes an ion chamber window 6000 formed of a first metal. In one example, the ion chamber window 6000 has a thickness of about 0.0020 inches (50 micrometers) and / or is made of aluminum. In one example, the aluminum may be 5052 H19 aluminum. Prior to plating, the ion chamber window 6000 may be laser-cut to avoid deformation (e.g., wrinkling) of the aluminum or other thin metal foil used to form the ion chamber window.

[0057] A metal plating 6002 is disposed on the periphery of the ion chamber window 6000. The metal plating 6002 may be formed of a second metal (such as nickel (Ni)) to enable the ion chamber window assembly 600 to be soldered to the inner surface of the housing 1000, as described herein. In at least one example embodiment, nickel sulfamate (Ni(SO3NH2)2) may be used to produce a pure nickel layer as the metal plating 6002. The metal plating 6002 may be formed to a thickness of approximately 300-400 microinches. In another example, the metal plating 6002 may be a copper (Cu) plating, tin plating, gold plating, or any other easily solderable metal. The metal plating 6002 may be formed on the ion chamber window 6000 using any known method, including, for example, sputtering, electroplating, electroless plating, physical vapor deposition (PVD), plasma spraying, etc.

[0058] exist Figure 6In the example embodiment shown, the metal plating 6002 is formed only on the periphery of the ion chamber window 6000. Once installed in, for example... Figure 1 In the radiation apparatus such as the radiation device 100 shown, the metal coating 6002 is not formed in the central portion, region, or area of ​​the ion chamber window 6000, nor is the metal coating 6002 formed within the beam path passing through the ion chamber 116. When the ion chamber window 6000 is coated, the central portion, region, or area can be shielded, so that the window area within the beam path remains unchanged and / or the metal coating is formed only on the periphery of the window.

[0059] One or more example embodiments provide an ion chamber with a metal window that replaces a conventional polyimide (e.g., Kapton®) window. Utilizing a metal window improves supply chain stability while maintaining cost neutrality relative to conventional ion chambers. Using a metal ion chamber window also improves cleaning and cleaning consistency, enhances electron scattering profiles, and / or reduces window curvature, enabling larger volume ion chambers.

[0060] Illustrative Example 1. An ionization chamber, comprising: The ion chamber shell has a first opening; and A first ion chamber window assembly includes a first ion chamber window and a first metal plating disposed at the peripheral edge of the first ion chamber window. The first ion chamber window is formed of at least a first metal and has a first surface exposed through the first opening. The first metal plating is formed of a second metal. The first metal is different from the second metal, and The first ion chamber window assembly is fixed to the inner side of the ion chamber housing at the periphery of the first opening via the first metal plating.

[0061] Illustrative Example 2. An ion chamber according to Illustrative Example 1, wherein the first metal is aluminum.

[0062] Illustrative Example 3. An ion chamber according to Illustrative Example 2, wherein the aluminum is 5052 H19 aluminum.

[0063] Illustrative Example 4. An ion chamber according to any one of Illustrative Examples 1 to 3, wherein the first metal plating is a nickel plating.

[0064] Illustrative Example 5. An ion chamber according to any one of Illustrative Examples 1 to 4, wherein the first metal coating is formed only at the peripheral edge of the first ion chamber window.

[0065] Illustrative Example 6. An ion chamber according to any one of Illustrative Examples 1 to 5, wherein the first metal coating is outside the beam path passing through the ion chamber.

[0066] Illustrative Example 7. An ion chamber according to any one of Illustrative Examples 1 to 6, wherein the first metal plating is welded to the inner side of the ion chamber housing.

[0067] Illustrative Example 8. An ion chamber according to any one of Illustrative Examples 1 to 7, wherein: The ion chamber housing includes a first portion having the first opening and a second portion having a second opening. The first and second portions are configured to be fixed to each other to form the ion chamber housing. The first opening and the second opening are located at opposite ends of the ion chamber. The first ion chamber window assembly is fixed to the inside of the first portion of the ion chamber housing. The ion chamber includes a second ion chamber window assembly fixed to the inner side of the second part of the ion chamber housing, and The second surface of the second ion chamber window assembly is exposed through the second opening.

[0068] Illustrative Example 9. The ion chamber according to Illustrative Example 8, wherein: The second ion chamber window assembly includes a second ion chamber window and a second metal plating disposed at the outer periphery of the second ion chamber window. The second ion chamber window is formed of at least the first metal. The second metal plating layer is formed from the second metal, and The second ion chamber window assembly is fixed to the inner side of the second portion of the ion chamber housing via the second metal plating.

[0069] Illustrative Example 10. The ion chamber according to any one of Illustrative Examples 8 or 9 further includes: A third ion chamber window assembly is disposed within the ion chamber housing between the first ion chamber window assembly and the second ion chamber window assembly. A window support structure is fixed to the internal portion of the ion chamber housing, the window support structure being configured to support the third ion chamber window assembly.

[0070] Illustrative Example 11. The ion chamber according to Illustrative Example 10, wherein: The third ion chamber window assembly includes a third ion chamber window and a third metal plating at the outer edge of the third ion chamber window. The third ion chamber window is formed of at least the first metal, and The third metal coating is formed from the second metal.

[0071] Illustrative Example 12. The ion chamber according to Illustrative Example 11, wherein the third metal plating is welded to the window support structure.

[0072] Illustrative Example 13. The ion chamber according to any one of Illustrative Examples 10 to 12 further includes: A first electrode assembly is disposed between the first ion chamber window assembly and the third ion chamber window assembly; and The second electrode assembly is disposed between the second ion chamber window assembly and the third ion chamber window assembly, wherein The third ion chamber window assembly is located between the first electrode assembly and the second electrode assembly.

[0073] Illustrative Example 14. A radiation device, comprising: The radiation source is configured to emit a beam of radiation toward the patient; A radiation beam conditioning structure is configured to condition one or more characteristics of the radiation beam; and An ion chamber, disposed in the path of the radiation beam, is configured to monitor one or more characteristics of the radiation beam, and the ion chamber comprises: The ion chamber shell has a first opening. A first ion chamber window assembly includes a first ion chamber window and a first metal plating disposed at the peripheral edge of the first ion chamber window. The first ion chamber window is formed of at least a first metal and has a first surface exposed through the first opening. The first metal plating is formed of a second metal. The first metal is different from the second metal, and The first ion chamber window assembly is fixed to the inner side of the ion chamber housing at the periphery of the first opening via the first metal plating.

[0074] Illustrative Example 15. The radiation device according to Illustrative Example 14, wherein the first metal is aluminum.

[0075] Illustrative Example 16. The radiation device according to Illustrative Example 15, wherein the aluminum is 5052 H19 aluminum.

[0076] Illustrative Example 17. The radiation device according to Illustrative Example 15, wherein the first metal plating is a nickel plating.

[0077] Illustrative Example 18. The radiation device according to Illustrative Example 14, wherein the first metal coating is formed only at the peripheral edge of the first ion chamber window.

[0078] Illustrative Example 19. The radiation device according to Illustrative Example 14, wherein the first metal plating is welded to the inner side of the ion chamber housing.

[0079] Illustrative Example 20. The radiation device according to Illustrative Example 14, wherein: The ion chamber housing includes a first portion having the first opening and a second portion having a second opening. The first and second portions are configured to be fixed to each other to form the ion chamber housing. The first opening and the second opening are located at opposite ends of the ion chamber. The first ion chamber window assembly is fixed to the inner side of the first portion of the ion chamber housing, and The ion chamber includes: A second ion chamber window assembly is fixed to the inner side of the second portion of the ion chamber housing, wherein the second surface of the second ion chamber window assembly is exposed through the second opening. A third ion chamber window assembly is disposed within the ion chamber housing between the first ion chamber window assembly and the second ion chamber window assembly. A window support structure is fixed to the internal portion of the ion chamber housing, the window support structure being configured to support the third ion chamber window assembly.

[0080] Although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items.

[0081] When an element is described as "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or there may be intermediate elements. In contrast, when an element is described as "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intermediate elements. Other terms used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar way (e.g., "between" and "directly between," "adjacent" and "closely adjacent," etc.).

[0082] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” used herein include the plural forms as well. It should also be understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and / or “including”, when used herein, specify the presence of the stated feature, integral, step, operation, element, and / or component, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0083] It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the above functions / actions may not occur in the order shown in the diagram. For example, two consecutively shown graphs may actually be executed substantially simultaneously, or sometimes in reverse order, depending on the functions / actions involved.

[0084] Specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the exemplary embodiments can be practiced without these specific details. For example, a system may be illustrated in block diagrams so as not to obscure the exemplary embodiments with unnecessary detail. In other instances, well-known processes, structures, and techniques may be shown without unnecessary detail to avoid obscuring the exemplary embodiments.

[0085] As described herein, example embodiments are described using action and symbolic representations of reference operations (e.g., in the form of flowcharts, diagrams, data flow graphs, structural diagrams, block diagrams, etc.). These operations can be implemented as program modules or functional processes, including routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc., that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types, and can be implemented using existing hardware, such as processing or control circuitry, including but not limited to one or more processors, one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more controllers, one or more arithmetic logic units (ALUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), one or more microcomputers, one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more system-on-a-chip (SoCs), one or more programmable logic units (PLUs), one or more microprocessors, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or any other device capable of responding to and executing instructions in a defined manner.

[0086] While flowcharts can describe operations as a sequential process, many operations can be executed in parallel, concurrently, or simultaneously. Furthermore, the order of operations can be rearranged. When a process completes its operations, it can be terminated, but there may also be additional steps not included in the diagram. A process can correspond to a method, function, procedure, subroutine, subroutine, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination can correspond to the function returning to the calling function or the main function.

[0087] As disclosed herein, the terms “memory,” “storage medium,” “processor-readable medium,” “computer-readable storage medium,” or “non-transitory computer-readable storage medium” can refer to one or more devices for storing data, including read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, core memory, disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, and / or other tangible machine-readable media for storing information. The term “computer-readable medium” can include, but is not limited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other media capable of storing, including, or carrying instructions and / or data.

[0088] Furthermore, the example embodiments can be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, firmware, middleware, or microcode, program code or code segments performing the necessary tasks can be stored in a machine or computer-readable medium, such as a computer-readable storage medium. When implemented in software, one or more processors will perform the necessary tasks. For example, as described above, according to one or more example embodiments, at least one memory may include or store computer program code, and at least one memory and computer program code may be configured, together with at least one processor, to cause a network element or network device to perform the necessary tasks. Furthermore, the processor, memory, and example algorithms encoded as computer program code serve as means to provide or cause the execution of the operations discussed herein.

[0089] The terms “include” and / or “have” as used herein are defined as including (i.e., open language). The term “coupled” as used herein is defined as a connection, although not necessarily direct or mechanical. Terms derived from the word “indicating” (e.g., “indicates” and “indication”) are intended to encompass all the various techniques that can be used to convey or reference the indicated object / information. Some (but not all) examples of techniques that can be used to convey or reference the indicated object / information include: conveying the indicated object / information, conveying an identifier of the indicated object / information, conveying information used to generate the indicated object / information, conveying a portion of the indicated object / information, conveying a derivation of the indicated object / information, and conveying a symbol representing the indicated object / information.

[0090] According to example embodiments, a medical system may be (or include) hardware, firmware, hardware executing software, or any combination thereof. Such hardware may include processing or control circuitry, such as, but not limited to, one or more processors, one or more CPUs, one or more controllers, one or more ALUs, one or more DSPs, one or more microcomputers, one or more FPGAs, one or more SoCs, one or more PLUs, one or more microprocessors, one or more ASICs, or any other device capable of responding to and executing instructions in a defined manner.

[0091] The benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any factors that may cause or result in such benefits, advantages, or solutions, or make such benefits, advantages, or solutions more apparent, should not be construed as key, essential, or fundamental features or elements of any or all claims.

Claims

1. An ionization chamber, comprising: The ion chamber shell has a first opening; as well as A first ion chamber window assembly includes a first ion chamber window and a first metal plating disposed at the peripheral edge of the first ion chamber window. The first ion chamber window is formed of at least a first metal and has a first surface exposed through the first opening. The first metal plating is formed of a second metal. The first metal is different from the second metal, and The first ion chamber window assembly is fixed to the inner side of the ion chamber housing at the periphery of the first opening via the first metal plating.

2. The ion chamber according to claim 1, wherein the first metal is aluminum.

3. The ion chamber according to claim 2, wherein the aluminum is 5052 H19 aluminum.

4. The ion chamber according to claim 2, wherein the first metal plating is a nickel plating.

5. The ion chamber according to claim 1, wherein the first metal coating is formed only at the peripheral edge of the first ion chamber window.

6. The ion chamber of claim 5, wherein the first metal coating is outside the beam path through the ion chamber.

7. The ion chamber according to claim 1, wherein the first metal plating is welded to the inner side of the ion chamber housing.

8. The ion chamber according to claim 1, wherein: The ion chamber housing includes a first portion having the first opening and a second portion having a second opening. The first and second portions are configured to be fixed to each other to form the ion chamber housing. The first opening and the second opening are located at opposite ends of the ion chamber. The first ion chamber window assembly is fixed to the inside of the first portion of the ion chamber housing. The ion chamber includes a second ion chamber window assembly fixed to the inner side of the second part of the ion chamber housing, and The second surface of the second ion chamber window assembly is exposed through the second opening.

9. The ion chamber according to claim 8, wherein: The second ion chamber window assembly includes a second ion chamber window and a second metal plating disposed at the outer periphery of the second ion chamber window. The second ion chamber window is formed of at least the first metal. The second metal plating layer is formed from the second metal, and The second ion chamber window assembly is fixed to the inner side of the second portion of the ion chamber housing via the second metal plating.

10. The ion chamber according to claim 8, further comprising: A third ion chamber window assembly is disposed within the ion chamber housing between the first ion chamber window assembly and the second ion chamber window assembly. A window support structure is fixed to the internal portion of the ion chamber housing, the window support structure being configured to support the third ion chamber window assembly.

11. The ion chamber according to claim 10, wherein: The third ion chamber window assembly includes a third ion chamber window and a third metal plating at the outer edge of the third ion chamber window. The third ion chamber window is formed of at least the first metal, and The third metal coating is formed from the second metal.

12. The ion chamber of claim 11, wherein the third metal plating is welded to the window support structure.

13. The ion chamber according to claim 10, further comprising: A first electrode assembly is disposed between the first ion chamber window assembly and the third ion chamber window assembly; as well as The second electrode assembly is disposed between the second ion chamber window assembly and the third ion chamber window assembly, wherein The third ion chamber window assembly is located between the first electrode assembly and the second electrode assembly.

14. A radiation device, comprising: The radiation source is configured to emit a beam of radiation toward the patient; A radiation beam conditioning structure is configured to condition one or more characteristics of the radiation beam; as well as An ion chamber, disposed in the path of the radiation beam, is configured to monitor one or more characteristics of the radiation beam, and the ion chamber comprises: The ion chamber shell has a first opening. A first ion chamber window assembly includes a first ion chamber window and a first metal plating disposed at the peripheral edge of the first ion chamber window. The first ion chamber window is formed of at least a first metal and has a first surface exposed through the first opening. The first metal plating is formed of a second metal. The first metal is different from the second metal, and The first ion chamber window assembly is fixed to the inner side of the ion chamber housing at the periphery of the first opening via the first metal plating.

15. The radiation device according to claim 14, wherein the first metal is aluminum.

16. The radiation device according to claim 15, wherein the aluminum is 5052 H19 aluminum.

17. The radiation device according to claim 15, wherein the first metal coating is a nickel coating.

18. The radiation device of claim 14, wherein the first metal coating is formed only at the peripheral edge of the first ion chamber window.

19. The radiation device of claim 14, wherein the first metal plating is welded to the inner side of the ion chamber housing.

20. The radiation device according to claim 14, wherein: The ion chamber housing includes a first portion having the first opening and a second portion having a second opening. The first and second portions are configured to be fixed to each other to form the ion chamber housing. The first opening and the second opening are located at opposite ends of the ion chamber. The first ion chamber window assembly is fixed to the inner side of the first portion of the ion chamber housing, and The ion chamber includes: The second ion chamber window assembly is fixed to the inner side of the second portion of the ion chamber housing, wherein the second surface of the second ion chamber window assembly is exposed through the second opening. A third ion chamber window assembly is disposed within the ion chamber housing between the first ion chamber window assembly and the second ion chamber window assembly. A window support structure is fixed to the internal portion of the ion chamber housing, the window support structure being configured to support the third ion chamber window assembly.

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