Beam limiting device, radiation delivery system, and radiation delivery method

Abstract

This application relates to a beam-limiting device, a radiation delivery system, and a radiation delivery method. The beam-limiting device includes at least two multi-leaf collimators positioned at different locations along the radiation direction; wherein at least two multi-leaf collimators are movable along the radiation direction. This method can meet various radiation delivery requirements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of radiation delivery, and in particular to beam confinement devices, radiation delivery systems, and radiation delivery methods. Background Technology

[0002] Radiation delivery technologies (such as radiotherapy, radiation processing, and radiation verification) are widely used in various fields. For example, modern radiotherapy equipment typically uses multi-leaf collimators to precisely control radiation rays, concentrating them on the tumor and minimizing damage to normal tissues. However, traditional equipment often has limitations. For instance, specialized radiotherapy equipment is only suitable for tumors in specific locations and has limited collimation accuracy. While conventional radiotherapy equipment can treat multiple sites, it lacks precision in controlling radiation rays, failing to effectively achieve ideal radiation delivery results. Therefore, radiotherapy equipment urgently needs higher radiation collimation accuracy and flexibility to achieve ideal radiation delivery results under different radiation delivery requirements.

[0003] There is currently no effective solution to the problem that radiotherapy equipment cannot meet various radiation delivery needs in related technologies. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a beam-limiting device, radiation delivery system, and radiation delivery method that can solve the problem of not being able to meet various radiation delivery requirements, in order to address the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] Firstly, this embodiment provides a beam-limiting device, which includes: at least two multi-leaf collimators disposed at different positions along the ray direction; wherein,

[0006] At least one or more of the two said multi-leaf collimators can move along the ray direction.

[0007] In some embodiments, the multi-leaf collimator is movable along a specified direction that is not parallel to the ray direction; and / or rotates about the ray direction.

[0008] In some of these embodiments, the beam-limiting device is moved in one or more of the following ways: translation, rotation about a first center inside the beam-limiting device, or rotation about a second center outside the beam-limiting device.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first and second multi-leaf collimators in the multi-leaf collimator each include a set of blades, and the blade sets of the first and second multi-leaf collimators are staggered.

[0010] In some of these embodiments, the motion parameters of the blade groups of each multi-leaf collimator are adjusted according to different radiation delivery regions.

[0011] Secondly, this embodiment provides a radiation delivery system, which includes a frame and a radiation device, wherein the radiation device includes a radiation source and a beam confinement device; wherein,

[0012] The radiation source is used to output a first ray to the radiation delivery area;

[0013] The beam-limiting device is used to limit the emission of the first ray. The beam-limiting device includes at least two multi-leaf collimators disposed at different positions in the ray direction, wherein one or more of the multi-leaf collimators are movable along the ray direction.

[0014] In some embodiments, the radiation delivery system further includes an imaging device, which includes an imaging source and an imaging detector corresponding to the imaging source; wherein,

[0015] The imaging source is used to output a second ray to the radiation delivery region;

[0016] The imaging detector is used to receive the second ray and determine a detection image of the radiation delivery area.

[0017] In some embodiments, the rack includes an aperture for receiving a radioactive delivery target, the radioactive source being movable along the ray direction, rotatable about the axis of the aperture, movable along the axis of the aperture, and / or rotatable about a direction perpendicular to the axis of the aperture. Thirdly, in this embodiment, a radioactive delivery method is provided, applied to the radioactive delivery system described in the second aspect, the method comprising:

[0018] Drive the multi-leaf collimator in the radiation delivery system to move.

[0019] The aforementioned beam-limiting device, radiation delivery system, and radiation delivery method, by setting up a multi-leaf collimator that can move along the ray direction, can change parameters such as the radiation field range and resolution during radiation delivery by adjusting the position of the multi-leaf collimator, thereby achieving the effect of meeting different radiation delivery needs. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the beam-limiting device in one embodiment;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a radiation delivery system in one embodiment;

[0022] Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of a radiation delivery system including an imaging device in one embodiment;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the application environment of the radioactive delivery method in one embodiment;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a radiation delivery system in another embodiment;

[0025] Figure 6 This is an internal structural diagram of a computer device in one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0026] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0027] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in this application shall have the general meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. Words such as “a,” “an,” “an,” “the,” “the,” and “these,” used in this application, do not indicate quantitative limitation and may be singular or plural. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and any variations thereof used in this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or device that comprises a series of steps or modules (units) is not limited to the listed steps or modules (units) but may include steps or modules (units) not listed, or may include other steps or modules (units) inherent to such processes, methods, products, or devices. The terms “connected,” “linked,” and “coupled,” used in this application, are not limited to physical or mechanical connections but may include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. The term “multiple” used in this application refers to two or more. The "and / or" operator describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, "A and / or B" can represent three cases: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone. Typically, the character " / " indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. The terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., used in this application are merely for distinguishing similar objects and do not represent a specific ordering of the objects.

[0028] In one embodiment, Figure 1 A beam-limiting device is provided, such as Figure 1 As shown, the beam-limiting device includes: at least two multi-leaf collimators disposed at different positions in the ray direction; wherein one or more of the at least two multi-leaf collimators are movable along the ray direction.

[0029] The beam-limiting device is used to adjust the direction and shape of the radiation beam output from the radiation source. The radiation source is an operable source capable of delivering radiation. The radiation can be one or more of X-rays, gamma rays, protons, heavy ions, and electrons, including but not limited to. The radiation source can deliver radiation of the same or different energies. After being adjusted by the beam-limiting device, the radiation output from the radiation source is output to the radiation delivery area. The beam-limiting device may include a multi-leaf collimator. In one embodiment, the beam-limiting device is a multi-leaf collimator. In one embodiment, in addition to the multi-leaf collimator, the beam-limiting device may also include other parts, such as, but not limited to, one or more of the following: a mounting device for installing and fixing the multi-leaf collimator, a housing, a primary collimator, and an additional collimator. The multi-leaf collimator includes multiple blades, through which parameters such as the shape of the radiation beam, the resolution of the radiation field, and the dose are controlled.

[0030] In one embodiment, the multi-leaf collimator can be built into the beam limiting device. For example, a double-layer multi-leaf collimator can be provided within the beam limiting device. The multi-leaf collimator within the beam limiting device can also be configured to be detachable and / or externally connected. For example, when the beam limiting device includes three multi-leaf collimators, two can be built into the beam limiting device, while the third can be externally connected. When it is necessary for the three multi-leaf collimators to jointly adjust the radiation beam output from the radiation source, the effect of introducing three multi-leaf collimators within the beam limiting device can be achieved by connecting a third multi-leaf collimator or moving a third multi-leaf collimator into the beam limiting device. It is understood that the number and installation method of the multi-leaf collimators within the beam limiting device can be set according to actual needs, and will not be elaborated here.

[0031] The multi-leaf collimator can be moved by translating along the ray direction, thus bringing it closer to or away from the radiation delivery target. The multi-leaf collimator can also be moved by translating along the ray direction while simultaneously rotating along it. For ease of understanding, taking the initial state of the multi-leaf collimator perpendicular to the ray direction as an example, if the multi-leaf collimator rotates along the ray direction, the angle between the multi-leaf collimator and the ray direction will change accordingly.

[0032] Optionally, the movement patterns of different multi-leaf collimators can be different or the same: multiple multi-leaf collimators can move synchronously along the ray direction, move sequentially, or only move some of the multi-leaf collimators. The movement of the multi-leaf collimators can be continuous or step-by-step. The movement pattern of the multi-leaf collimators can be set by the user or determined according to the radiation delivery requirements. When moving the multi-leaf collimators, the beam limiting device can remain stationary, or it can move together with the multi-leaf collimators.

[0033] As a non-limiting example, when a multi-leaf collimator approaches the object to be radiographed, the resolution of the radiation field obtained by the rays output by the multi-leaf collimator increases, the penumbra decreases, and the range decreases; conversely, when the rays output by the multi-leaf collimator move away, the resolution of the radiation field obtained by the rays output by the multi-leaf collimator decreases, the penumbra increases, and the range increases. When the multi-leaf collimator rotates, the shape of the radiation field obtained by the rays output by the multi-leaf collimator changes accordingly. In this embodiment, by setting a multi-leaf collimator that can move along the ray direction, it is possible to control the rays and change the parameters of the radiation field, thereby meeting different radiograph delivery requirements.

[0034] In one embodiment, each multi-leaf collimator can move along a specified direction that is not parallel to the ray direction; and / or rotate around the ray direction.

[0035] Among them, the multi-leaf collimator can move laterally perpendicular to the ray, and it can also move obliquely.

[0036] Taking a direction perpendicular to the ray as an example, optionally, the entire multi-leaf collimator can be translated in a direction perpendicular to the ray; alternatively, some blades within the multi-leaf collimator can be controlled to translate in a direction perpendicular to the ray. When controlling the translation of some blades within the multi-leaf collimator, the blades can be driven to move in one direction, for example, from the center to the edge or from the edge to the center of the multi-leaf collimator; alternatively, different blades within the multi-leaf collimator can be driven to move in two directions respectively, for example, while driving some blades to move from the center to the edge, driving another group of blades to move from the edge to the center. It is understood that the specified direction can also be a direction not perpendicular to the ray.

[0037] The rotation angle of the multi-leaf collimator can be determined according to the spatial size of the beam limiting device and the range of the radiation field. Optionally, one or more multi-leaf collimators in the beam limiting device are rotated to a specified angle around the ray direction (e.g., the ray's direction of travel), and the shape and size of the radiation field are adjusted by the cooperation between the multi-leaf collimators.

[0038] In this embodiment, the shape of the beam can be precisely controlled by translating the multi-leaf collimator and / or rotating the beam direction, so that the beam field shape can meet different user needs.

[0039] In one embodiment, the beam limiting device moves based on one or more of the following: translation, rotation about a first center inside the beam limiting device, or rotation about a second center outside the beam limiting device.

[0040] The beam-limiting device can translate along any one or more directions; optionally, it can translate horizontally, vertically, or in other specified directions. The first center and the second center can be a center point or a central axis. The second center can change with the position of the beam-limiting device; it can also be a fixed position. Optionally, the first center is a center point, and the beam-limiting device can rotate around that center point. The second center is the ray axis, and the beam-limiting device can rotate around that ray axis. The beam-limiting device can move with the radiation source or move relative to it. As an exemplary embodiment, the beam-limiting device can rotate with the radiation source about a rotation axis (e.g., the axis of the aperture accommodating the irradiated target) and move along the direction of the rotation axis.

[0041] The beam-limiting device combines various movement methods to meet the angular illumination requirements. Optionally, the illumination method of the beam-limiting device includes, but is not limited to: the beam-limiting device can move along the head-to-toe direction of the object being irradiated while rotating around the ray axis (e.g., the central axis of the beam formed by the ray). While rotating around a certain part of the object being irradiated, the beam-limiting device changes the incident angle of the ray beam through its rotation.

[0042] In this embodiment, by translating the beam-limiting device, it can be moved to the required radiation delivery area of ​​the radiation delivery object. By rotating the beam-limiting device, it can rotate around a part of the radiation delivery object or the entire body. The beam-limiting device can achieve not only coplanar irradiation but also non-coplanar irradiation, increasing the degree of freedom of irradiation and meeting the irradiation requirements at various angles.

[0043] In one embodiment, the first multi-leaf collimator and the second multi-leaf collimator in the multi-leaf collimator each include a blade group, and the blade groups of the first multi-leaf collimator and the second multi-leaf collimator are staggered.

[0044] The blade group consists of multiple narrow blades. Optionally, the blades within the blade group can be configured to move independently. Alternatively, the blades can move collectively as a unit within the blade group. When the blade groups are staggered, the multi-leaf collimator farther from the radiation source can block rays passing through the gaps between the blades of the multi-leaf collimator closer to the radiation source. Optionally, the multi-leaf collimator can always maintain the staggered arrangement of the multi-leaf collimator blade groups. Optionally, the multi-leaf collimator can be moved to stagger the blade groups when the beam limiting device is performing its beam limiting function, or when the multi-leaf collimator has reached a designated position.

[0045] In this embodiment, by staggering the arrangement of the blade groups of the first and second multi-leaf collimators, radiation leakage can be reduced, protecting normal organs and tissues adjacent to the radiation delivery area.

[0046] In one embodiment, the motion parameters of the blade groups of each multi-leaf collimator are adjusted according to different radiation delivery regions. These motion parameters include, but are not limited to, blade position and movement speed. The motion parameters of different blade groups in different multi-leaf collimators can be the same or different; furthermore, different blade groups within the same multi-leaf collimator, and different blades within the same blade group, can be adjusted to different motion parameters. Moving the blades includes adjusting their height, level, rotation, etc.

[0047] Optionally, the radiation delivery region is acquired, the relationship between the current position of the blade group and the radiation delivery region is determined, and one or more blade groups in the collimator are moved by adjusting the motion parameters. Adjusting the blade groups can change the relative positions between different blade groups, and can also adjust the gap distance between blades within a blade group, so that the area formed by the moved blade group conformally matches the radiation delivery region. Optionally, when the radiation delivery region is large, a wider blade gap distance can be set by adjusting the motion parameters; when the radiation delivery region is small, a narrower blade gap distance can be set by adjusting the motion parameters.

[0048] Optionally, the multi-leaf collimators are associated with different radiation delivery areas. When radiation delivery is to a radiation delivery area associated with a certain multi-leaf collimator, the multi-leaf collimator can be used as the main device for adjusting the radiation to adjust the radiation transmission area, direction, etc. Other multi-leaf collimators can be used as auxiliary devices for the multi-leaf collimator to perform functions such as helping normal organs and tissues to block radiation and coordinating the adjustment of the radiation field shape and size.

[0049] In this embodiment, by adjusting the motion parameters, the arrangement and motion mode of the blades can be changed, thereby changing the position and shape of the radiation delivery area and meeting various radiation delivery requirements.

[0050] In one embodiment, the shape parameters of the blade groups within different multi-leaf collimators can be different. The shape parameters of the blade groups within the multi-leaf collimator are set according to the corresponding radiation delivery region. These shape parameters include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following parameters: blade width, blade thickness, gap distance between blades, and number of blades. Optionally, when the radiation delivery region is large, a wider blade gap distance, a thicker blade width, and a larger number of blades are set for the associated multi-leaf collimator; when the radiation delivery region is small, a narrower blade gap distance, a narrower blade width, and a smaller number of blades are set for the associated multi-leaf collimator. By setting the multi-leaf collimators according to the radiation delivery region, the beam-limiting device can be adapted to multiple radiation delivery requirements simultaneously.

[0051] Based on the same inventive concept, this application also provides a radiation delivery system for implementing the aforementioned beam-limiting device. The solution provided by this system is similar to the solution described in the aforementioned device. Therefore, the specific limitations in one or more radiation delivery system embodiments provided below can be found in the limitations of the beam-limiting device described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0052] In one embodiment, Figure 2 A radiation delivery system is provided, such as Figure 2 The radiation delivery system shown includes a frame and a radiation device, the radiation device including a radiation source and a beam confinement device; wherein, the radiation source is used to output a first ray to the radiation delivery area; and the beam confinement device is used to limit the radiation of the first ray.

[0053] The frame is used to carry or support the radiation device and the object to be received by the radiation device. Optionally, the frame can be one or more of the following: a rotating arm, auxiliary positioning tools, a treatment bed, a clamping device for the parts to be processed, etc. The radiation source is a source that can deliver radiation or irradiation; the first ray can be X-rays, gamma rays, protons, heavy ions, electrons, etc. Optionally, the radiation source can generate X-rays by bombarding a metal target with high-speed electrons. The radiation delivery device can realize functions such as radiotherapy, radiation processing, and phantom dose verification before radiotherapy.

[0054] The beam-limiting device can be one of the devices described in the above embodiments: In one embodiment, the beam-limiting device includes at least two multi-leaf collimators disposed at different positions along the ray direction; wherein one or more of the multi-leaf collimators are movable along the ray direction. Here, the ray direction may include the axial direction of the ray emitted from the radiation device or a direction perpendicular to the plane where the ray exits the radiation device. For example, in the case of a conical ray, the axial direction may be the direction of the central axis of the cone. Further, each multi-leaf collimator is movable along a specified direction, which is not parallel to the ray direction; and / or, rotates about the ray direction. Optionally, the first and second multi-leaf collimators each include a set of blades, and the blade sets of the first and second multi-leaf collimators are staggered. Optionally, the motion parameters of the blade sets of each multi-leaf collimator are adjusted according to different radiation delivery regions.

[0055] By configuring the beam to include at least two multi-leaf collimators positioned at different locations along the ray direction, and allowing one or more of these collimators to move along the ray direction, a wider range of beam adjustment can be achieved compared to the movement of a single multi-leaf collimator, enabling the beam to meet different needs.

[0056] In one embodiment, the beam limiting device moves based on one or more of the following: translation, rotation about a first center inside the beam limiting device, or rotation about a second center outside the beam limiting device.

[0057] In one embodiment, the radiation delivery system further includes an imaging device comprising an imaging source and an imaging detector corresponding to the imaging source; wherein the imaging source is used to output a second ray to the radiation delivery region; and the imaging detector is used to receive the second ray and determine a detected image of the radiation delivery region. In one embodiment, the imaging device includes one imaging source. In one embodiment, the imaging device includes multiple imaging sources.

[0058] In an imaging device, the imaging source is a device that generates or reflects light, electromagnetic waves, or other information for imaging purposes. The second rays generated by the imaging source include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following media: sound waves, X-rays, gamma rays, protons, heavy ions, electrons, etc. The imaging detector receives the second rays from the imaging source and can convert them into electrical signals or other forms of data to obtain a detection image; alternatively, the imaging detector can be connected to a processor, which can convert and process the received second rays to obtain a detection image. The imaging detector is configured correspondingly to the imaging source and can be a photodetector, X-ray detector, infrared detector, etc.

[0059] The imaging device is used to acquire images of the radiation delivery area. Optionally, the imaging device can be an X-ray imaging device. In this case, the imaging source is a X-ray tube, which uses high-speed electrons to bombard a metal target to generate radiation and output a second ray. The imaging detector includes, but is not limited to, flat panel detectors and curved detectors. The imaging detector can be, for example, a detector with CT detection and / or DR detection functions. Optionally, the imaging device can be mounted or supported by a gantry. Optionally, the imaging device can also be a magnetic resonance imaging device. In this case, based on the principle of nuclear magnetic resonance, the hydrogen nuclei inside the human body are used as the imaging source to output the second ray. No additional device is required as the imaging source, but a radio frequency coil is required as a detector, and the imaging device is placed in a static magnetic field. The imaging device can also be an ultrasound imaging device, where the imaging source is a high-frequency sound wave generated by an ultrasound generator; the detector can be an ultrasound probe.

[0060] The imaging device can determine the detection image at any one or more times before, during, or after the radiation source outputs radiation. Optionally, taking an X-ray tube as the imaging source, the X-ray tube can perform single exposures or continuous exposures during operation. In a single exposure, an image is acquired in one exposure to observe the planar structure of the radiation delivery area, such as the location of bones and internal organs. In continuous exposures, multiple exposures can acquire relatively detailed structural information about the radiation delivery area, such as the structure of organs and blood vessels. Single exposures and image acquisition allow the user to observe the internal state of the radiation delivery object during the radiation delivery process, while multiple exposures and image acquisition allow the user to examine the radiation delivery object. This embodiment, by setting up an imaging device, can help users monitor the radiation delivery status.

[0061] In one embodiment, the imaging device includes a plurality of X-ray tubes; wherein the plurality of X-ray tubes are disposed on one side of the propagation path of the first ray; or, the plurality of X-ray tubes are respectively disposed on both sides of the propagation path of the first ray.

[0062] When multiple X-ray tubes are placed on the same side, a corresponding detector needs to be placed on the other side; when multiple X-ray tubes are placed on two sides, detectors need to be placed on the corresponding sides of each X-ray tube based on their positions. Multiple imaging devices consisting of multiple X-ray tubes and corresponding detectors can achieve image detection in modes such as simultaneous acquisition, staggered acquisition, and sequential acquisition.

[0063] Optionally, Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a radiation delivery system including an imaging device is provided, such as... Figure 3 As shown, when setting up a detector based on a detector plate, if there are two X-ray tubes located on the same side, a larger detector plate is required; if multiple X-ray tubes are not located on the same side, two detector plates are required, but the detector plate volume is relatively small. Specifically, the positions of multiple X-ray tubes can be determined based on the actual space available for setting up the radiation delivery system, thereby reducing space costs.

[0064] In one embodiment, the frame includes an aperture for receiving a radioactive delivery target, the radioactive source being movable along the ray direction, rotating about the axis of the aperture, moving along the axis of the aperture, and / or rotating about a direction perpendicular to the axis of the aperture.

[0065] The target object for radiation delivery can enter the space inside the aperture. Optionally, after the target object enters the aperture, the positions of one or more of the following devices—the radiation source, the beam confinement device, and the aperture accommodating the target object—are adjusted so that the radiation source outputs a first ray to the radiation delivery area. When the gantry also includes a treatment bed, and the target object is located on the treatment bed, the treatment bed and the target object can jointly enter the aperture accommodating the target object.

[0066] Optionally, the frame includes a fixed frame and a movable frame relative to the fixed frame, the movable frame and the fixed frame being connected. The movable frame carries or supports the radioactive source, and the position of the radioactive source is changed by moving the movable frame to perform one or more of the following modes of motion: movement along the ray direction, rotation about the axis of the aperture, movement along the axis of the aperture, and / or rotation about a direction perpendicular to the axis of the aperture.

[0067] Taking a patient as the target of radiation delivery as an example, when the radiation source moves along the direction of the rays, it moves vertically relative to the patient; when the radiation source rotates or moves around the axis of the aperture, it rotates or moves along the head-to-toe direction of the patient; when the radiation source rotates around a direction perpendicular to the axis of the aperture, it can rotate within a 360-degree range around a central point. It is understood that the range of movement and / or rotation of the radiation source can be set and adjusted according to requirements and the size of the space where the radiation delivery system is located. The target of radiation delivery can also be objects other than the human body. Furthermore, the movable gantry can also carry or support beam confinement devices and imaging devices.

[0068] Each module in the aforementioned radiation delivery system can be implemented entirely or partially through software, hardware, or a combination thereof. These modules can be embedded in or independent of the processor in a computer device, or stored in the memory of a computer device as software, so that the processor can invoke and execute the corresponding operations of each module.

[0069] Based on the same inventive concept, this application also provides a radiation delivery method for implementing the radiation delivery system described above. The solution provided by this method is similar to the implementation described in the above system; therefore, specific limitations in one or more radiation delivery method embodiments provided below can be found in the above-described limitations regarding the beam-limiting device and radiation delivery system, and will not be repeated here.

[0070] In one embodiment, the radiation delivery method can be applied to, for example... Figure 4In the application environment shown, terminal 102 communicates with server 104 via a network. A data storage system can store the data that server 104 needs to process. The data storage system can be integrated onto server 104 or located in the cloud or on other network servers. The terminal connects to the radiation delivery system and executes radiation delivery methods through the terminal. Terminal 102 can be, but is not limited to, various personal computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc. Server 104 can be implemented using a standalone server or a server cluster consisting of multiple servers.

[0071] In one embodiment, a radiation delivery method is provided, applied to the radiation delivery system in the above-described system embodiments, wherein the method delivers radiation via... Figure 4 The terminal execution in the description includes a radiation delivery method comprising: driving the movement of a multi-leaf collimator in the radiation delivery system.

[0072] Optionally, the radiation delivery method drives one or more multi-leaf collimators in the radiation delivery system to move, including one or more of the following methods: driving the multi-leaf collimator to move along the ray direction; driving the multi-leaf collimator to move in a specified direction, which is not parallel to the ray direction; driving the multi-leaf collimator to rotate around the ray direction. The movement of one or more multi-leaf collimators can be driven based on the radiation delivery area and the positional changes of the radiation delivery object; the motion parameters of the blade groups of each multi-leaf collimator can be adjusted according to different radiation delivery areas. The driving device for the multi-leaf collimator can be constructed using one or more devices including a motor, a position sensor, etc. Optionally, each blade in the multi-leaf collimator is driven by an independent motor; or a preset number of blades are grouped together and driven by independent motors on a group basis.

[0073] Optionally, the radiation delivery system includes a first multi-leaf collimator and a second multi-leaf collimator, each comprising a set of blades. The blade sets of the first and second multi-leaf collimators can always be staggered, or, based on the radiation delivery method, the first and second multi-leaf collimators can be driven to move, causing the blade sets of the two-layer multi-leaf collimators to be staggered.

[0074] Optionally, the radiation delivery system includes a first multi-leaf collimator, a second multi-leaf collimator, and a third multi-leaf collimator. The first and second multi-leaf collimators are integrated into the beam-limiting device of the radiation delivery system, while the third multi-leaf collimator can be integrated into the beam-limiting device or externally connected to it. The radiation delivery method includes: if the presence of the third multi-leaf collimator is determined based on radiation delivery requirements, driving the third multi-leaf collimator to limit and adjust the radiation; if the absence of the third multi-leaf collimator is determined based on radiation delivery requirements, driving the third multi-leaf collimator away from the radiation range.

[0075] In this embodiment, by driving the multi-leaf collimator, the shape, size, resolution, and penumbra size of the radiation field can be adjusted to meet different radiation delivery requirements.

[0076] In one embodiment, the radiation device includes a radiation source and a beam confinement device. The radiation delivery method further includes: driving the radiation device to move. The radiation device may move in one or more of the following ways: translation, rotation about a designated center inside the radiation device, or rotation about a designated center outside the radiation device.

[0077] Optionally, the method further includes: driving the beam confinement device and the radiation source in the radiation apparatus to move respectively. The beam confinement device may move in one or more of the following ways: translation, rotation about a first center inside the beam confinement device, or rotation about a second center outside the beam confinement device. The radiation source may move in one or more of the following ways: movement in the ray direction, rotation about the axis of the aperture, movement along the axis of the aperture, and / or rotation about a direction perpendicular to the axis of the aperture.

[0078] In this embodiment, by adjusting the radiation device, non-coplanar multi-angle radiation delivery is achieved, which improves the radiation delivery effect while reducing damage to healthy tissue.

[0079] In one embodiment, multi-leaf collimators are associated with different radiation delivery regions, and the shape parameters of the blade groups within the multi-leaf collimators are set according to the corresponding radiation delivery region. The radiation delivery method further includes: determining a target multi-leaf collimator associated with the radiation delivery region, driving the target multi-leaf collimator to adjust the basic shape of the beam, and driving other multi-leaf collimators to further refine the shape of the beam. In this embodiment, intelligent selection of associated multi-leaf collimators for irradiation optimization according to different radiation delivery regions can improve the radiation delivery effect on the radiation delivery region.

[0080] In related technologies, radiotherapy equipment mostly adopts a single-layer MLC (Multi-Leaf Collimator) structure, which makes it difficult to meet the radiation delivery needs of different sites. Dedicated radiotherapy equipment, such as CyberKnife, is suitable for radiation delivery to tumors in the head or specific sites, but faces technical bottlenecks when treating tumors in the body. General-purpose ring radiotherapy equipment, such as Halcyon, although equipped with a double-layer MLC structure that works together to achieve high leaf resolution, cannot achieve non-coplanar functionality, thus limiting its use in treating head tumors. Therefore, neither dedicated nor conventional radiotherapy machines can achieve a balance between high precision and high adaptability in radiation delivery to multiple tumor sites.

[0081] Based on this, in one embodiment... Figure 5 Another radiodelivery system is provided for radiodelivering tumors. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the radiation delivery system includes a treatment head, wherein the treatment head includes a radiation source and a beam confinement device, the beam confinement device including a double-layered MLC.

[0082] Traditional radiotherapy systems can only achieve irradiation at coplanar angles. To increase the degree of freedom in irradiation, allowing for flexible selection of the optimal irradiation angle based on the tumor location when delivering complex tumors, a movable treatment head is incorporated. This allows the treatment head to rotate or translate within a certain angle range along the head-to-toe direction of the recipient, achieving non-coplanar irradiation; simultaneously, it can rotate around the recipient's body, achieving coplanar irradiation. The range of rotation or translation angles of the treatment head is determined by the space available for the radiotherapy system. Larger spaces allow for a wider angle range, while smaller spaces allow for a smaller angle range.

[0083] The beam-limiting device includes a multilayer ceramic (MLC) comprising two blade groups, each containing multiple blades. The MLC may or may not include a tungsten gate. Radiation is delivered along the gaps between the blade groups to the radiographic delivery area of ​​the patient. The two MLC layers work together to achieve optimal radiographic delivery to tumors in different locations.

[0084] Optionally, a lower-layer MLC can be configured with the ability to move vertically along the radiation direction. When the lower-layer MLC moves downward, it gets closer to the target area, thus improving resolution and reducing penumbra. This is suitable for smaller tumors; for example, precise radiotherapy to head tumors can be achieved by moving the lower-layer MLC downward. When the lower-layer MLC moves upward, it gets closer to the metal target of the radiation source. Within the designated area, the upper and lower MLCs work together to stagger the leaf gaps, improving the overall resolution of the leaf gaps, blocking X-rays between the upper leaf gaps, significantly reducing radiation leakage, and protecting adjacent normal organs and tissues, thereby improving the radiotherapy effect on the tumor area.

[0085] Optionally, an upper MLC and a lower MLC with independent rotation and collaborative control functions can be configured. Each of the upper and lower MLCs can rotate independently around the axis of the radiation direction, achieving seamless integration with the radiation delivery planning system and the real-time tracking system. During radiation delivery planning, the rotating dual-layer MLCs can flexibly adjust the shape and size of the radiation field, ensuring the adjusted field meets the scope of the radiation delivery planning system. During radiation delivery, by combining the real-time tracking system to obtain the subject's real-time positional changes, the dual-layer MLCs can be rotated according to these changes, achieving dynamic adjustment of the radiation field and avoiding damage to tissues surrounding the tumor during delivery. By configuring dual-layer MLCs with independent rotation and collaborative control functions, not only is the accuracy of radiation delivery improved, but damage to healthy tissues is also reduced.

[0086] Optionally, the MLC corresponding to the radiation delivery requirements of tumors in different locations can be selected for irradiation optimization. Optionally, when the radiation delivery area is large, such as when delivering tumors in the body, the system prioritizes the upper MLC for irradiation optimization to provide a larger radiation field, with the lower MLC working in conjunction to assist in optimizing the radiation delivery effect. When the radiation delivery area is small, such as when treating head tumors, the system prioritizes the lower MLC for irradiation optimization to provide higher leaf resolution; the upper MLC works in conjunction to assist the lower MLC in optimizing the radiation delivery effect. The auxiliary MLC can further adjust the radiation delivery parameters within a small range based on the adjustment of the radiation by the prioritized MLC.

[0087] Furthermore, the radiation delivery system may also include an imaging device. As an example, the imaging device may include a DR (Digital Radiography) tube and detectors. The DR tube, as an imaging source, has single-exposure and / or continuous-exposure capabilities. The detector corresponding to the DR detector can be a flat-panel detector and / or a curved detector. A single-exposure DR tube combined with a flat-panel detector can achieve DR imaging; a continuous-exposure DR tube combined with a curved detector can achieve CT (Computer Tomography) imaging. The imaging device can perform image detection before, during, and after radiation delivery of the treatment head. However, it is not limited to this; the imaging device may also include other types, such as PET (Positron Emission Tomography) detectors, CT tubes and detectors, etc.

[0088] The imaging device may include a single DR tube or a dual DR tube. When the imaging device includes a dual DR tube, the dual DR tubes can be set on the same side or both sides of the direction of the treatment head ray. The dual DR tubes combined with the corresponding detectors constitute two imaging devices. In terms of acquisition timing, the two imaging devices can achieve imaging based on modes such as simultaneous acquisition, staggered acquisition, and sequential acquisition.

[0089] The radiotherapy delivery system in this embodiment, by incorporating a treatment head that can move freely within its range of motion, enables both coplanar and non-coplanar irradiation capabilities. This allows for non-coplanar multi-angle radiotherapy delivery of complex tumors, improving delivery effectiveness while reducing damage to healthy tissue. The dual-layer MLC structure provides combinations of different resolutions and field ranges to meet the diverse radiotherapy needs of tumors in different regions, adapting to tumors in various locations such as the body and head. Its high resolution and adaptability offer a new solution for precise tumor radiotherapy. The vertically movable MLC significantly enhances delivery flexibility, achieving optimal irradiation at different distances. The independently rotating MLC allows each layer to function optimally in delivery planning and dynamic tracking, resulting in higher-precision dose control. This system not only improves applicability but also significantly optimizes delivery effectiveness, achieving substantial progress in delivery accuracy and safety, thus filling the gaps in related technologies for precise radiotherapy delivery of tumors in multiple locations.

[0090] In one embodiment, a computer device is provided, which may be a terminal, and its internal structure diagram may be as follows: Figure 6As shown, the computer device includes a processor, memory, input / output interfaces, a communication interface, and input devices. The processor, memory, and input / output interfaces are connected via a system bus, and the communication interface and input devices are connected to the system bus via the input / output interfaces. The processor provides computing and control capabilities. The memory includes non-volatile storage media and internal memory. The non-volatile storage media stores the operating system and computer programs. The internal memory provides an environment for the operation of the operating system and computer programs stored in the non-volatile storage media. The input / output interfaces are used for exchanging information between the processor and external devices. The communication interface is used for wired or wireless communication with external terminals; wireless communication can be achieved through Wi-Fi, mobile cellular networks, NFC (Near Field Communication), or other technologies. When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements a radiographic delivery method. The input devices can be a touch layer covering the display screen, buttons, a trackball, or a touchpad on the computer device's casing, or an external keyboard, touchpad, or mouse.

[0091] Those skilled in the art will understand that Figure 6 The structures shown are merely block diagrams of some structures related to the present application and do not constitute a limitation on the computer device to which the present application is applied. Specific computer devices may include more or fewer components than shown in the figures, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements. In one embodiment, a computer device is also provided, including a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to implement the steps in the above-described method embodiments.

[0092] In one embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a computer program stored thereon that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0093] In one embodiment, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0094] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the above methods. Any references to memory, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application can include at least one of non-volatile and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include read-only memory (ROM), magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash memory, optical memory, high-density embedded non-volatile memory, resistive random access memory (ReRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), phase change memory (PCM), graphene memory, etc. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory, etc. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM can take many forms, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) or Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM). The databases involved in the embodiments provided in this application may include at least one type of relational database and non-relational database. Non-relational databases may include, but are not limited to, blockchain-based distributed databases. The processors involved in the embodiments provided in this application may be general-purpose processors, central processing units, graphics processing units, digital signal processors, programmable logic devices, quantum computing-based data processing logic devices, etc., and are not limited to these.

[0095] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0096] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A beam-limiting device, characterized in that, The beam-limiting device includes: at least two multi-leaf collimators disposed at different positions along the ray direction; wherein... At least one or more of the two multi-leaf collimators can move along the ray direction.

2. The beam-limiting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-leaf collimator can move along a specified direction, which is not parallel to the ray direction; and / or rotate around the ray direction.

3. The beam-limiting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The beam-limiting device moves in one or more of the following ways: translation, rotation about a first center inside the beam-limiting device, or rotation about a second center outside the beam-limiting device.

4. The beam-limiting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first and second multi-leaf collimators in the multi-leaf collimator each include a blade group, and the blade groups of the first and second multi-leaf collimators are staggered.

5. The beam-limiting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The motion parameters of the blade groups of each multi-leaf collimator are adjusted according to different radiation delivery regions.

6. A radiation delivery system, characterized in that, It includes a frame and a radiation device, wherein the radiation device includes a radiation source and a beam confinement device; wherein, The radiation source is used to output a first ray to the radiation delivery area; The beam-limiting device is used to limit the emission of the first ray. The beam-limiting device includes at least two multi-leaf collimators disposed at different positions in the ray direction, wherein one or more of the multi-leaf collimators are movable along the ray direction.

7. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The radiation delivery system further includes an imaging device, which comprises an imaging source and an imaging detector corresponding to the imaging source; wherein... The imaging source is used to output a second ray to the radiation delivery region; The imaging detector is used to receive the second ray and determine a detection image of the radiation delivery area.

8. The system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The imaging device includes multiple X-ray tubes; wherein... The plurality of X-ray tubes are positioned on one side of the propagation path of the first ray; or, The plurality of X-ray tubes are respectively positioned on both sides of the propagation path of the first ray.

9. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The frame includes an aperture for accommodating a radioactive delivery target, the radioactive source being movable along the ray direction, rotating about the axis of the aperture, moving along the axis of the aperture, and / or rotating about a direction perpendicular to the axis of the aperture.

10. A method for radioactive delivery, characterized in that, Applied to the radiation delivery system according to any one of claims 6 to 9, the method comprises: The multi-leaf collimator in the radiation delivery system is driven to move along the direction of the ray.

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