An external linkage type anti-collision device matched with a cone of a linear accelerator radiotherapy

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of safety protection of radiotherapy equipment, and discloses a hanging linkage type anti-collision device matched with a linear accelerator radiotherapy cone, wherein a connecting base is used for being connected with the outer edge of a mechanical anti-collision ring of a treatment head of a medical linear accelerator; the protection cover is a rigid net structure, the protection cover is connected with the connecting base, the protection cover extends forward along the ray emission direction of the treatment head, and a hollow containing space for covering the overhanging section of the stereotactic radiotherapy cone is formed; when the protection cover is subjected to external collision force, the protection cover can rigidly conduct the force to the connecting base, and then the force is transmitted to the mechanical anti-collision ring of the original factory by the connecting base, so that the collision protection interlocking of the accelerator is triggered; the rigid net protection cover extending forward completely covers the overhanging section of the cone, and the problem that the mechanical anti-collision ring of the original factory fails to protect in the X-knife treatment scene is effectively solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of safety protection technology for radiotherapy equipment, and in particular to an external linkage anti-collision device adapted to the radiotherapy cone of a linear accelerator. Background Technology

[0002] Medical linear accelerators are core equipment for tumor radiotherapy. All Elekta linear accelerators in the entire series are equipped with a mechanical anti-collision mechanism at the treatment head. This mechanism mainly consists of a ring-shaped anti-collision ring, circumferentially distributed support springs, and a pressure-sensitive switch. In conventional intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric IMRT modes, where the treatment head has no external attachments, the original ring-shaped anti-collision ring completely covers the dangerous area of ​​the treatment head. When a foreign object comes into contact with or compresses the head, the spring compression triggers the pressure switch, and the equipment immediately interlocks and shuts down, effectively avoiding the risk of mechanical collision.

[0003] In stereotactic radiosurgery (X-knife), a focusing cone with an extension length of over 10 cm is installed at the X-ray exit of the treatment head of a medical linear accelerator (such as the Elekta series). However, the mechanical anti-collision ring on the accelerator head, which comes standard with the accelerator, only covers the danger zone when the extension attachment is not present. After installing the cone, the original anti-collision structure becomes ineffective, especially at complex treatment angles such as non-coplanar gantry rotation, making it highly susceptible to collisions with the patient or treatment bed. Currently, there is a lack of dedicated automated mechanical anti-collision devices in clinical practice, relying solely on passive methods such as manual observation, which poses significant safety hazards and may lead to equipment damage, treatment interruption, or even patient injury. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide an external linkage anti-collision device adapted to the radiotherapy cone of a linear accelerator, aiming to solve or improve at least one of the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following solution: The present invention provides an external linkage anti-collision device adapted to a linear accelerator radiotherapy cone, comprising: The connecting base is used to connect to the outer edge of the original mechanical anti-collision ring of the medical linear accelerator treatment head; The protective cover is a rigid mesh structure. The protective cover is connected to the connecting base. The protective cover extends forward along the radiation emission direction of the treatment head to form a hollow accommodating space for covering the extended section of the stereotactic radiotherapy cone. When the protective cover is subjected to an external collision force, the protective cover can rigidly transmit the force to the connecting base, and then the connecting base transmits it to the original mechanical anti-collision ring, triggering the collision protection interlock of the accelerator.

[0006] Optionally, the connecting base includes multiple sets of latching mechanisms arranged circumferentially along the original mechanical anti-collision ring, the latching mechanisms being used for detachably connecting with the original mechanical anti-collision ring.

[0007] Optionally, the latching mechanism is a pair of symmetrically arranged semi-circular latches.

[0008] Optionally, the semi-annular buckle integrates a micro-damping buffer structure.

[0009] Optionally, the connecting base is made of carbon fiber reinforced nylon.

[0010] Optionally, the protective cover has a through opening at its center, the size of which is adapted to the outer diameter of the stereotactic radiotherapy cone.

[0011] Optionally, the protective cover is cylindrical or truncated conical.

[0012] Optionally, the protective cover is woven from carbon fiber composite filaments or alloy microfilaments.

[0013] Optionally, the mesh perforation rate of the protective cover is not less than 85%.

[0014] Optionally, the total mass of the device shall not exceed 200g.

[0015] This invention discloses the following technical advantages: By using a forward-extending rigid mesh protective cover to completely enclose the extended section of the cone, this invention effectively solves the problem of the original mechanical anti-collision ring failing in X-knife treatment scenarios. Utilizing a purely mechanical structure, the collision force is rigidly transmitted to the original mechanical anti-collision ring, directly triggering the accelerator's built-in collision interlock protection. No modification to the equipment circuitry or software is required, ensuring strong compatibility and compliance. The ultra-lightweight overall design ensures that the device's own weight and centrifugal force will not compress the original springs during high-speed rotation of the gantry, eliminating false alarms in non-collision situations. The highly perforated mesh structure ensures unobstructed and artifact-free radiation, without affecting the dose distribution and accuracy of stereotactic treatment. The detachable snap-fit ​​connection base allows for quick switching between conventional radiotherapy and X-knife treatment modes, and the purely mechanical structure results in a low failure rate and low maintenance cost. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of this application. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of this application are used to explain this application and do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a front view of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a side view of the present invention.

[0017] In the picture: 1. Original mechanical anti-collision ring; 2. Protective cover; 3. Stereotactic radiotherapy cone; 4. Semi-circular buckle; 5. Opening. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0019] To make the above-mentioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0020] Reference Figures 1 to 2 This invention provides an external linkage anti-collision device adapted to a linear accelerator radiotherapy cone, comprising: a connecting base for connecting to the outer edge of the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1 of the medical linear accelerator treatment head; a protective cover 2, which is a rigid mesh structure, connected to the connecting base, and extending forward along the radiation emission direction of the treatment head to form a hollow accommodating space for covering the extended section of the stereotactic radiotherapy cone 3; wherein, when the protective cover 2 is subjected to an external collision force, the protective cover 2 can rigidly transmit the force to the connecting base, and then from the connecting base to the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1, triggering the collision protection interlock of the accelerator.

[0021] The protective cover 2 fills the collision blind spot of the stereotactic radiotherapy cone 3 extending more than 10cm, compensating for the design flaws of the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1. The protective cover 2 converts local collision force into a transferable rigid force, which is precisely applied to the original mechanical anti-collision ring through the connecting base, thereby activating the equipment's existing safety shutdown logic. This solution preserves the integrity of the original equipment to the greatest extent, achieving seamless integration of external reinforcement and internal interlocking, and providing a plug-and-play, highly reliable active protection method for stereotactic radiotherapy.

[0022] In this embodiment, the connecting base includes multiple sets of latching mechanisms arranged circumferentially along the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1. The latching mechanisms are used to detachably connect with the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1. Preferably, there are 6 sets of latching mechanisms arranged circumferentially at equal intervals.

[0023] Multiple sets of circumferentially distributed locking mechanisms ensure uniform and secure fixation between the connecting base and the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1, capable of withstanding dynamic loads during multi-angle rotation of the gantry. The detachable design allows for quick installation or removal of the device without affecting the accelerator's routine non-cone-tube treatment, significantly improving the flexibility and efficiency of clinical workflows.

[0024] In this embodiment, the latching mechanism consists of a pair of symmetrically arranged semi-circular latches 4. The symmetrical semi-circular latch structure 4 ensures uniform stress on the base and prevents skewing or localized stress concentration during frame rotation.

[0025] Furthermore, in one embodiment, an eccentric wheel locking handle is provided at the end of each semi-circular buckle 4 (i.e., at the joint of the two semi-circles). The buckle body is made of carbon fiber reinforced nylon, and a flexible anti-slip layer such as silicone or polyurethane is adhered to the inner contact surface of the buckle. During installation, the two semi-circular buckles 4 are initially closed and fitted onto the outer edge of the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1. Then, the eccentric wheel handle is turned, and during the rotation of the eccentric wheel, the clamping arm of the buckle is pushed radially inward, so that the inner side of the pair of semi-circular buckles 4 generates a controllable positive pressure with the outer wall of the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1, thereby achieving a tight clamping. The locking force can be designed by the eccentricity of the eccentric wheel and the length of the handle.

[0026] Furthermore, the semi-circular buckle 4 and the protective cover 2 can be integrally fixed or detachably connected. When the semi-circular buckle 4 and the protective cover 2 are detachably connected, a retaining ring is provided on the outer edge of the protective cover 2. The retaining ring is provided with a T-slot or dovetail groove. The semi-circular buckle 4, as an independent locking module, can slide into and be fixed in the groove of the retaining ring along the axial direction. When the semi-circular buckle 4 wears or loses its elasticity after long-term use, only the corresponding semi-circular buckle 4 module needs to be replaced. When the semi-circular buckle 4 and the protective cover 2 are integrally fixed, the base of the semi-circular buckle 4 is directly integrally formed and fixed on the retaining ring.

[0027] In this embodiment, the semi-annular buckle 4 integrates a micro-damping buffer structure. This damping buffer structure can absorb the slight high-frequency vibrations generated during the start-up, shutdown, and rotation of the frame, preventing relative slippage or wear between the buckle and the anti-collision ring due to minor displacement. Simultaneously, it can effectively suppress the transmission of non-collision vibrations to the original spring, further reducing the risk of false triggering under dynamic operating conditions and improving the long-term stability of the device.

[0028] Furthermore, in one embodiment, several blind holes or through slots are formed at the contact interface between each semi-circular buckle 4 and the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1, with a composite damping component embedded inside. This damping component consists of an outer medical-grade silicone sleeve and an embedded miniature helical spring. After installation, the silicone sleeve directly contacts the outer wall of the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1, providing basic frictional damping and buffering; the miniature helical spring is arranged radially. When the frame rotates and generates centrifugal force or minor vibrations, the spring can absorb high-frequency energy, preventing the vibration from being directly and rigidly transmitted to the induction spring built into the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1. Simultaneously, when subjected to a real external impact, the series stiffness of the spring and silicone sleeve allows the buckle to harden rapidly after a minor displacement, ensuring that the impact force can still be efficiently transmitted to the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1.

[0029] In this embodiment, the connecting base is made of carbon fiber reinforced nylon.

[0030] Carbon fiber reinforced nylon combines the high strength and high modulus of carbon fiber with the good toughness and wear resistance of nylon, making it an ideal lightweight structural material. This material not only meets the stiffness requirements of the connecting base during force transmission, but its low density also helps to keep the overall weight extremely low, avoiding pre-compression of the original mechanical anti-collision ring springs due to the weight of the base. Furthermore, this material possesses insulating properties and resistance to medical disinfectants.

[0031] In this embodiment, the protective cover 2 has a through opening 5 at its center, and the size of the opening 5 is adapted to the outer diameter of the stereotactic radiotherapy cone 3.

[0032] The central through-hole design 5 allows the cone to pass independently through the protective cover 2 and be directly installed on the X-ray exit without any contact gap between them. This ensures that the positioning accuracy of the stereotactic radiotherapy cone 3 is not affected by the protective cover, and also avoids pressure on the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1 due to assembly interference. With a standardized opening size, such as 35mm, it can be adapted to X-knife cones with orifice diameters of 5mm to 30mm commonly used in clinical practice, making it highly versatile.

[0033] In this embodiment, the protective cover 2 is cylindrical or truncated conical.

[0034] The cylindrical or truncated conical (smaller at the front and larger at the back) geometric profile can be well matched with the outward shape of the cone, providing a uniform circumferential protection distance. The truncated conical design can also appropriately narrow the front end of the protective shield while ensuring coverage of the distal end (closer to the patient), reducing the extra volume occupied in confined treatment spaces (such as the head and neck area) and lowering the probability of the protective shield itself interfering with the patient's body surface or treatment bed.

[0035] In this embodiment, the protective cover 2 is woven from carbon fiber composite filaments or alloy microfilaments.

[0036] By employing a braiding process, the protective shield 2 can achieve isotropic mechanical properties while maintaining its overall openwork structure, ensuring efficient force transmission regardless of the direction of the impact. Carbon fiber composite filaments or alloy microfilaments possess extremely high specific strength and specific stiffness, enabling sufficient structural rigidity with minimal material usage. This is a key technological feature for achieving the dual goals of ultra-lightweight design and rigid force transmission in the device.

[0037] In this embodiment, the mesh perforation rate of the protective cover 2 is not less than 85%.

[0038] With an ultra-high perforation rate of no less than 85%, the device ensures virtually no physical obstruction along the radiation path, fundamentally eliminating the attenuation or scattering effects of the device on the radiotherapy dose and avoiding any metal artifacts interfering with image guidance. Simultaneously, the highly perforated structure facilitates airflow, does not impede heat dissipation around the cone, and reduces the device's weight, achieving a perfect balance between impact protection and treatment precision.

[0039] In this embodiment, the total mass of the device does not exceed 200g, preferably 150g.

[0040] Strictly limiting the overall mass to under 200g ensures that the device will not accidentally trigger the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1 due to its own weight or centrifugal force. This low weight specification covers the safety requirements of mainstream Elekta models such as Infinity, Synergy, and Versa HD, ensuring that the device itself will not become a new source of accidental triggering under any dynamic conditions, such as 360° gantry rotation or non-coplanar treatment, thus guaranteeing the continuity and safety of treatment.

[0041] Installation steps and working principle: During the preparation stage for stereotactic radiotherapy, remove any unrelated accessories for conventional radiotherapy. Holding this device, align the connecting base with the original mechanical anti-collision ring 1 on the machine head and press evenly to complete the locking mechanism.

[0042] The X-knife treatment cone is installed normally. The stereotactic radiotherapy cone 3 passes through the central opening 5 at the bottom of the mesh protective cover 2 and is positioned and fixed.

[0043] When executing a non-coplanar treatment plan, the device rotates synchronously with the head during the multi-angle rotation of the gantry. Its own weight and centrifugal force will not compress the springs, and an interlocking alarm will be triggered without error.

[0044] If abnormalities occur during radiotherapy, such as patient position shift, equipment mechanical positioning deviation, or unreasonable stereotactic radiotherapy planning, leading to contact or collision between the cone and the patient or treatment bed, the mesh protective cover 2 will make contact with the obstacle first, rigidly transmitting the compressive force to the original mechanical anti-collision ring, and the spring compression will trigger an emergency shutdown of the equipment. After the X-knife stereotactic radiotherapy is completed, manually open the elastic semi-circular buckle 4 to quickly disassemble the device, and the equipment will return to its normal radiotherapy use state.

[0045] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "longitudinal", "lateral", "up", "down", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this invention, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this invention.

[0046] The embodiments described above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art to the technical solutions of the present invention without departing from the spirit of the present invention should fall within the protection scope defined by the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. An externally attached, linkage-type anti-collision device adapted to a linear accelerator radiotherapy cone, characterized in that, include: A connecting base is used to connect to the outer edge of the original mechanical anti-collision ring (1) of the medical linear accelerator treatment head; The protective cover (2) is a rigid mesh structure. The protective cover (2) is connected to the connecting base. The protective cover (2) extends forward along the radiation emission direction of the treatment head to form a hollow accommodating space for covering the extended section of the stereotactic radiotherapy cone (3). When the protective cover (2) is subjected to an external collision force, the protective cover (2) can rigidly transmit the force to the connecting base, and then the connecting base transmits it to the original mechanical anti-collision ring (1), triggering the collision protection interlock of the accelerator.

2. The external linkage anti-collision device adapted to a linear accelerator radiotherapy cone according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting base includes multiple sets of latching mechanisms arranged circumferentially along the original mechanical anti-collision ring (1), which are used to detachably connect with the original mechanical anti-collision ring (1).

3. The external linkage anti-collision device adapted to a linear accelerator radiotherapy cone according to claim 2, characterized in that, The buckling mechanism consists of a pair of symmetrically arranged semi-circular buckles (4).

4. The external linkage anti-collision device adapted to a linear accelerator radiotherapy cone according to claim 3, characterized in that, The semi-circular buckle (4) has a micro-damping buffer structure integrated inside.

5. The external linkage anti-collision device adapted to a linear accelerator radiotherapy cone according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting base is made of carbon fiber reinforced nylon.

6. The external linkage anti-collision device adapted to a linear accelerator radiotherapy cone according to claim 1, characterized in that, The protective cover (2) has a through opening (5) at its center, and the size of the opening (5) is adapted to the outer diameter of the stereotactic radiotherapy cone (3).

7. The external linkage anti-collision device adapted to a linear accelerator radiotherapy cone according to claim 1, characterized in that, The protective cover (2) is cylindrical or truncated conical.

8. The external linkage anti-collision device adapted to a linear accelerator radiotherapy cone according to claim 1, characterized in that, The protective cover (2) is woven from carbon fiber composite filaments or alloy microfilaments.

9. The external linkage anti-collision device adapted to a linear accelerator radiotherapy cone according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mesh perforation rate of the protective cover (2) shall not be less than 85%.

10. The external linkage anti-collision device adapted to a linear accelerator radiotherapy cone according to claim 1, characterized in that, The total mass of the device does not exceed 200g.

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