Proton therapy device cooling system

Abstract

This utility model belongs to the field of high-end medical device technology and discloses a cooling system for a proton therapy device, including a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger. The first heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange plate, a first tube, a second tube, a third tube, and a fourth tube. The first heat exchange plate has a first flow channel and a second flow channel. The first tube and the second tube connect to the two ends of the first flow channel. The two ends of the second flow channel are respectively connected to the inlet and outlet of the proton accelerator through the third tube and the fourth tube. The second heat exchanger includes a second heat exchange plate, a fifth tube, a sixth tube, a seventh tube, and an eighth tube. The second heat exchange plate has a third flow channel and a fourth flow channel. The fifth tube and the sixth tube connect to the two ends of the third flow channel. The two ends of the fourth flow channel are respectively connected to the inlet and outlet of the helium compressor unit through the seventh tube and the eighth tube. This system can independently cool the helium compressor unit, has a simple structure, and high reliability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of high-end medical device technology, and in particular to a cooling system for proton therapy equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Proton therapy is a safe and efficient advanced therapy in modern tumor radiotherapy, characterized by strong penetration, good dose distribution, and high local dose.

[0003] Protons need to continuously swirl and accelerate within a proton accelerator, utilizing a magnetic field generated by zero resistance in an ultra-low temperature environment. This ultra-low temperature environment requires liquid helium, necessitating continuous 24-hour cooling of the helium compressor unit. Cooling failure can lead to overheating and shutdown of the helium compressor unit, causing the proton accelerator magnet cold head to fail and resulting in magnet quenching. Furthermore, during proton accelerator operation, the internal and external conductors of the radio frequency subsystem, the rotating capacitor, and the scanning magnet all generate significant heat. If this heat is not dissipated promptly, it can degrade the performance of the radio frequency subsystem and the scanning magnet, even causing them to fail, ultimately affecting the proton beam flux and deflection direction. This places extremely high demands on the stability and reliability of the cooling system in proton therapy equipment. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a cooling system for proton therapy equipment that can independently cool the helium compressor unit and has high reliability.

[0005] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] A cooling system for a proton therapy device, comprising:

[0007] The first heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange plate, a first tube, a second tube, a third tube, and a fourth tube. The first heat exchange plate has a first flow channel and a second flow channel. The two ends of the first tube are respectively connected to the outlet of a water tank and the inlet of the first flow channel. The two ends of the second tube are respectively connected to the inlet of the water tank and the outlet of the first flow channel. The two ends of the third tube are respectively connected to the outlet of the second flow channel and the inlet of a proton accelerator. The two ends of the fourth tube are respectively connected to the inlet of the second flow channel and the outlet of the proton accelerator.

[0008] The second heat exchanger includes a second heat exchange plate, a fifth tube, a sixth tube, a seventh tube, and an eighth tube. The second heat exchange plate has a third flow channel and a fourth flow channel. The two ends of the fifth tube are respectively connected to the outlet of the water tank and the inlet of the third flow channel. The two ends of the sixth tube are respectively connected to the inlet of the water tank and the outlet of the third flow channel. The fifth tube is connected to the inlet of the third flow channel, and the sixth tube is connected to the outlet of the third flow channel. The two ends of the seventh tube are respectively connected to the outlet of the fourth flow channel and the inlet of the helium compressor unit. The two ends of the eighth tube are respectively connected to the inlet of the fourth flow channel and the outlet of the helium compressor unit. The second heat exchanger also includes a ninth tube and a tenth tube for connecting to another backup water source. The ninth tube is connected to the seventh tube through a first three-way valve, and the tenth tube is connected to the eighth tube through a second three-way valve.

[0009] Preferably, the end of the first pipe away from the first flow channel and the end of the second pipe away from the first flow channel are connected to a water tank, which provides cooling water; a first liquid path is formed between the first pipe, the first flow channel, the second pipe, and the water tank for circulating cooling water on one side of the first flow channel; a second liquid path is formed between the third pipe, the proton accelerator, the fourth pipe, and the second flow channel for circulating cooling water on one side of the second flow channel; the end of the fifth pipe away from the third flow channel and the end of the sixth pipe away from the third flow channel are connected to the water tank, and a third liquid path is formed between the fifth pipe, the third flow channel, the sixth pipe, and the water tank for circulating cooling water on one side of the third flow channel; the seventh pipe, the helium compressor unit, the eighth pipe, and the fourth flow channel... A fourth liquid path is formed for the circulation of cooling water located on one side of the fourth flow channel. The first liquid path is connected to the third liquid path, while the fourth liquid path is not connected to the second liquid path. This allows the heat in the proton accelerator to be absorbed by the cooling water in the second liquid path. The cooling water flows to the second flow channel and transfers the heat through the first heat exchange plate to the first flow channel, and then through the first flow channel to the cooling water in the first liquid path. The heat is carried away by the cooling water in the first liquid path. The heat in the helium compressor unit is absorbed by the cooling water in the fourth liquid path. The cooling water flows to the fourth flow channel and transfers the heat through the second heat exchange plate to the third flow channel, and then through the third flow channel to the cooling water in the third liquid path. The heat is carried away by the cooling water in the third liquid path.

[0010] Preferably, a first connecting pipe is provided between the first pipe and the second pipe, and a first control valve is provided on the first connecting pipe;

[0011] A second connecting pipe is provided between the fifth pipe and the sixth pipe, and a second control valve is provided on the second connecting pipe.

[0012] Preferably, the first control valve is a three-way valve, with the first control valve connected to the second pipe through two of its valve ports and the first control valve connected to the first connecting pipe through the other valve port.

[0013] The second control valve is a three-way valve, with two of its valve ports connected to the eighth pipe and the other valve port connected to the second connecting pipe.

[0014] Preferably, the first tube and / or the second tube are provided with a first filter, the third tube and / or the fourth tube are provided with a second filter, the fifth tube and / or the sixth tube are provided with a third filter, and the seventh tube and / or the eighth tube are provided with a fourth filter.

[0015] Preferably, the third pipe is equipped with a first booster pump, and the seventh pipe is equipped with a second booster pump.

[0016] Preferably, a backup power supply is also included, which is electrically connected to the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

[0017] Preferably, the water inlet end of the first flow channel is correspondingly set to the water outlet end of the second flow channel, the water outlet end of the first flow channel is correspondingly set to the water inlet end of the second flow channel, and the flow direction of the cooling water in the first flow channel and the second flow channel is opposite.

[0018] The inlet end of the third flow channel is correspondingly set to the outlet end of the fourth flow channel, and the outlet end of the third flow channel is correspondingly set to the inlet end of the fourth flow channel. The flow direction of the cooling water in the third flow channel and the fourth flow channel is opposite.

[0019] Preferably, the proton accelerator includes a first water supply drain and a first water return drain, the first water supply drain being connected to the inlet pipe of the internal load, the first water return drain being connected to the outlet of the internal load, the third pipe being connected to the first water supply drain, and the fourth pipe being connected to the first water return drain.

[0020] The helium compressor unit includes multiple helium compressors, as well as a second water supply drain and a second water return drain. The second water supply drain is connected to the water inlet of the multiple helium compressors, and the second water return drain is connected to the water outlet of the multiple helium compressors. The seventh pipe is connected to the second water supply drain, and the eighth pipe is connected to the second water return drain.

[0021] Preferably, a first temperature and flow sensor is provided on the connecting pipe between the water outlet of the internal load and the first return water drain, and a second temperature and flow sensor is provided on the connecting pipe between the water outlet of the helium compressor and the second return water drain.

[0022] Beneficial effects:

[0023] The proton therapy equipment cooling system provided by this utility model has a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger responsible for absorbing heat from the proton accelerator and the helium compressor unit, respectively. Specifically, the end of the first pipe away from the first flow channel and the end of the second pipe away from the first flow channel are connected to a water tank, which provides cooling water. The cooling water located on the first flow channel side circulates in a first liquid path formed by the first pipe, the first flow channel, the second pipe, and the water tank. The cooling water located on the second flow channel side circulates in a second liquid path formed by the third pipe, the proton accelerator, the fourth pipe, and the second flow channel. The ends of the fifth pipe and the sixth pipe away from the third flow channel are connected to a water tank, which provides cooling water. The cooling water located on the third flow channel side circulates in a third liquid path formed by the fifth pipe, the third flow channel, the sixth pipe, and the water tank. The cooling water located on the fourth flow channel side circulates in a fourth liquid path formed by the seventh pipe, the helium compressor unit, the eighth pipe, and the fourth flow channel. During operation, heat from the proton accelerator is absorbed by cooling water in the second liquid path. This cooling water flows to the second channel, transferring heat through the first heat exchange plate to the first channel, and then to the cooling water in the first liquid path, where it flows away with the cooling water. Simultaneously, heat from the helium compressor unit is absorbed by cooling water in the fourth liquid path. This cooling water flows to the fourth channel, transferring heat through the second heat exchange plate to the third channel, and then to the cooling water in the third liquid path, where it flows away with the cooling water. This system can independently cool the proton accelerator and the helium compressor unit, featuring a simple structure and high reliability. Even if one of the first or second heat exchangers fails, the other can operate reliably, effectively preventing quench loss in the superconducting magnet. The second heat exchanger also includes a ninth and a tenth pipe for connecting to another backup water source. The ninth pipe is connected to the seventh pipe via a first three-way valve, and the tenth pipe is connected to the eighth pipe via a second three-way valve, making the cooling system more reliable. In the event of a water tank failure, the backup water source can be used to continuously cool the helium compressor unit, providing strong protection for the superconducting magnet. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the cooling system of the proton therapy equipment provided by this utility model.

[0025] In the picture:

[0026] 1. First heat exchanger; 11. First heat exchange plate; 111. First flow channel; 112. Second flow channel; 121. First tube; 122. Second tube; 123. First connecting tube; 124. First control valve; 131. Third tube; 132. Fourth tube; 14. First filter; 15. Second filter; 16. First booster pump;

[0027] 2. Second heat exchanger; 21. Second heat exchange plate; 211. Third flow channel; 212. Fourth flow channel; 221. Fifth tube; 222. Sixth tube; 223. Second connecting tube; 224. Second control valve; 231. Seventh tube; 232. Eighth tube; 241. Ninth tube; 242. Tenth tube; 243. First three-way valve; 244. Second three-way valve; 25. Third filter; 26. Fourth filter; 27. Second booster pump;

[0028] 3. Backup power supply;

[0029] 4. Proton accelerator; 41. First water supply drain; 42. First water return drain; 43. Internal load; 44. First temperature and flow sensor;

[0030] 5. Helium compressor unit; 51. Second water supply drain; 52. Second water return drain; 53. Helium compressor; 54. Second temperature and flow sensor;

[0031] 6. Water tank. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the present invention and not intended to limit it. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, the accompanying drawings show only the parts relevant to the present invention, not the entire structure.

[0033] In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected," "linked," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0034] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0035] In the description of this embodiment, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," etc., refer to the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for ease of description and simplification of operation, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are only used for distinction in description and have no special meaning.

[0036] This embodiment provides a cooling system for a proton therapy device. (Refer to...) Figure 1 As shown, the cooling system includes a first heat exchanger 1 and a second heat exchanger 2. The first heat exchanger 1 includes a first heat exchange plate 11, a first tube 121, a second tube 122, a third tube 131, and a fourth tube 132. The first heat exchange plate 11 has a first flow channel 111 and a second flow channel 112. The first tube 121 is connected to the water inlet of the first flow channel 111, the second tube 122 is connected to the water outlet of the first flow channel 111, the two ends of the third tube 131 are respectively connected to the water outlet of the second flow channel 112 and the water inlet of the proton accelerator 4, and the two ends of the fourth tube 132 are respectively connected to the water inlet of the second flow channel 112 and the water outlet of the proton accelerator 4. The second heat exchanger 2 includes a second heat exchange plate 21, a fifth tube 221, a sixth tube 222, a seventh tube 231, and an eighth tube 232. The second heat exchange plate 21 has a third flow channel 211 and a fourth flow channel 212. The fifth tube 221 is connected to the water inlet of the third flow channel 211, the sixth tube 222 is connected to the water outlet of the third flow channel 211, the two ends of the seventh tube 231 are respectively connected to the water outlet of the fourth flow channel 212 and the water inlet of the helium compressor unit 5, and the two ends of the eighth tube 232 are respectively connected to the water inlet of the fourth flow channel 212 and the water outlet of the helium compressor unit 5.

[0037] In this embodiment, the first heat exchanger 1 and the second heat exchanger 2 are respectively responsible for absorbing the heat from the proton accelerator 4 and the helium compressor unit 5. Specifically, the end of the first pipe 121 away from the first flow channel 111 and the end of the second pipe 122 away from the first flow channel 111 are connected to the water tank 6. The water tank 6 provides cooling water. The cooling water located on the first flow channel 111 side circulates in the first liquid path formed by the first pipe 121, the first flow channel 111, the second pipe 122, and the water tank 6. The cooling water located on the second flow channel 112 side circulates in the second liquid path formed by the third pipe 131, the proton accelerator 4, the fourth pipe 132, and the second flow channel 112. The end of the fifth pipe 221 away from the third flow channel 211 and the end of the sixth pipe 222 away from the third flow channel 211 are connected to the water tank 6. The water tank 6 provides cooling water. The cooling water on one side of the third flow channel 211 circulates in the third liquid path formed by the fifth pipe 221, the third flow channel 211, the sixth pipe 222, and the water tank 6. The cooling water on one side of the fourth flow channel 212 circulates in the fourth liquid path formed by the seventh pipe 231, the helium compressor unit 5, the eighth pipe 232, and the fourth flow channel 212. During operation, the heat in the proton accelerator 4 is absorbed by the cooling water in the second liquid path. The cooling water flows to the second flow channel 112 and transfers the heat through the first heat exchange plate 11 to the first flow channel 111. It is then transferred through the first flow channel 111 to the cooling water in the first liquid path and flows away with the cooling water in the first liquid path, carrying away the heat. Meanwhile, the heat in the helium compressor unit 5 is absorbed by the cooling water in the fourth liquid path. The cooling water flows to the fourth flow channel 212, transferring the heat through the second heat exchange plate 21 to the third flow channel 211, and then through the third flow channel 211 to the cooling water in the third liquid path, where it flows away with the cooling water, carrying away the heat. The proton therapy device includes a proton accelerator 4 and a helium compressor unit 5. The proton accelerator 4 can be understood as excluding the helium compressor unit 5. The first liquid path and the third liquid path are connected, while the fourth liquid path and the second liquid path are not connected and will not affect each other. The above system can independently cool the proton accelerator 4 and the helium compressor unit 5. It has a simple structure and high reliability. Even if one of the first heat exchanger 1 and the second heat exchanger 2 fails, the other can work reliably, effectively avoiding the superconducting magnet (superconducting magnet) from igniting and abnormal equipment shutdown.

[0038] It is worth mentioning that cooling devices are installed on the second pipe 122 and the sixth pipe 222. This arrangement can cool the cooling water in the first and third liquid circuits, ensuring that it has sufficient heat absorption capacity during the circulation process.

[0039] In this embodiment, the water tank 6 is equipped with a level sensor to monitor the cooling water content within the tank. Specifically, two sets of level sensors are provided, positioned vertically within the water tank 6. The upper level sensor primarily monitors for minor water shortages, while the lower level sensor monitors for severe water shortages. When a minor water shortage occurs, the system display prompts for water replenishment; a severe water shortage often indicates a significant leak in the system. In this case, the system controls the water pump to stop, requiring a complete system shutdown and maintenance to locate the leak.

[0040] To ensure the stable operation of the cooling system, various water distribution valves and monitoring instruments are installed, and insulation cotton is laid on the pipelines to prevent condensation and dripping, which could lead to accidents.

[0041] In this embodiment, a first booster pump 16 is installed on the third pipe 131, and a second booster pump 27 is installed on the seventh pipe 231. The first booster pump 16 is used to circulate the cooling water in the second liquid path, and the second booster pump 27 is used to circulate the cooling water in the fourth liquid path. Specifically, the first booster pump 16 and the second booster pump 27 are variable frequency pumps. The variable frequency pump adjusts the motor speed to match the actual water demand, avoiding the energy waste caused by the fixed speed operation of traditional pumps. When water consumption is low, the variable frequency pump can reduce the speed to reduce power consumption; when water consumption increases, the variable frequency pump increases the speed to meet the demand. This flexible adjustment method can achieve significant energy-saving effects, with a comprehensive energy saving rate of 30%-60%. The variable frequency pump can automatically adjust the flow rate according to the set target pressure to ensure stable water supply pressure. Even when water consumption suddenly increases or decreases, the system can maintain constant water pressure by adjusting the speed of the variable frequency pump, avoiding water pressure fluctuations.

[0042] Furthermore, a third booster pump (not shown) and a fourth booster pump (not shown) are respectively installed on the first pipe 121 and the fifth pipe 221. The third booster pump is used to circulate the cooling water in the first liquid circuit, and the fourth booster pump is used to circulate the cooling water in the third liquid circuit. The third and fourth booster pumps are variable frequency water pumps.

[0043] In this embodiment, the second heat exchanger 2 further includes a ninth pipe 241 and a tenth pipe 242. The ninth pipe 241 is connected to the seventh pipe 231 through a first three-way valve 243, and the tenth pipe 242 is connected to the eighth pipe 232 through a second three-way valve 244. Specifically, both the ninth pipe 241 and the tenth pipe 242 are connected to another backup water source, such as a backup water tank. Specifically, when insufficient circulating water supply in the third liquid path leads to inadequate heat exchange, or when the heat exchange function of the second heat exchange plate 21 malfunctions, causing the cooling water temperature in the fourth liquid path to be high and exceed the set value, this indicates an abnormal operation of the cooling system. The high-temperature alarm parameters are displayed on the cooling system's control panel. The first three-way valve 243 and the second three-way valve 244 activate. Specifically, the first three-way valve 243 cuts off the connection between the seventh pipe 231 and the fourth flow channel 212 and opens the connection between the seventh pipe 231 and the ninth pipe 241. Simultaneously, the second three-way valve 244 cuts off the connection between the eighth pipe 232 and the fourth flow channel 212 and opens the connection between the eighth pipe 232 and the tenth pipe 242, causing the fourth liquid path to switch to backup water source circulation. At the same time, the system can initiate a linkage to allow the proton accelerator 4 to enter slow discharge mode. After the fourth liquid circuit circulates with backup water for a period of time, if the cooling water in the third liquid circuit returns to normal supply, or the heat exchange function of the second heat exchange plate 21 is normal, specifically, if the water temperature at the outlet of the helium compressor unit 5 returns to below 21°C, the control panel clears the alarm. At this time, the first three-way valve 243 cuts off the connection between the seventh pipe 231 and the ninth pipe 241 and restores the connection between the seventh pipe 231 and the fourth flow channel 212. The second three-way valve 244 cuts off the connection between the eighth pipe 232 and the tenth pipe 242 and restores the connection between the eighth pipe 232 and the fourth flow channel 212, and the heat exchange work is resumed through the second heat exchange plate 21.

[0044] Furthermore, if the cooling water supply in the third liquid circuit is excessive, or if the heat exchange function of the second heat exchange plate 21 malfunctions, causing the cooling water temperature in the fourth liquid circuit to be too low and exceed the set value, this indicates that the cooling system is malfunctioning. The control panel of the cooling system displays low-temperature alarm parameters, and the first three-way valve 243 and the second three-way valve 244 activate. Specifically, the first three-way valve 243 cuts off the connection between the seventh pipe 231 and the fourth flow channel 212 and opens the connection between the seventh pipe 231 and the ninth pipe 241. Simultaneously, the second three-way valve 244 cuts off the connection between the eighth pipe 232 and the fourth flow channel 212 and opens the connection between the eighth pipe 232 and the tenth pipe 242, causing the fourth liquid circuit to switch to backup water source circulation supply. At the same time, the system can initiate a linkage to cause the proton accelerator 4 to enter slow discharge mode, at which point manual intervention is required for inspection.

[0045] Furthermore, since the cooling system may need to switch to a backup water source, the water circuit can be switched through the first three-way valve 243 and the second three-way valve 244. Using a variable frequency water pump can ensure that the water pressure and flow rate of other circuits remain relatively stable even in the event of a sudden shutdown.

[0046] To prevent valve closure due to unforeseen circumstances at the downstream end, as instantaneous high pressure could significantly impact the remaining loads and the heat exchanger itself, the water cooling system is equipped with pressure relief valves (not shown) at the outlet of the proton accelerator 4 and the helium compressor unit 5. When the pressure exceeds a set value, the pressure relief valves open, and some of the cooling water released through these valves eventually flows back to the water tank 6 to reduce system pressure. Simultaneously, if the water pressure at the outlets of the proton accelerator 4 and helium compressor unit 5 is too high, a system alarm will be issued. If the alarm is not deactivated within a certain time, the system will control the variable frequency water pump to shut down to protect the entire cooling system and load. At the same time, the PC software control system detects the shutdown signal and triggers a proton system interlock, causing the magnets to enter a slow discharge state.

[0047] In this embodiment, a first connecting pipe 123 connects the first pipe 121 and the second pipe 122, and a first control valve 124 is provided on the first connecting pipe 123; a second connecting pipe 223 connects the fifth pipe 221 and the sixth pipe 222, and a second control valve 224 is provided on the second connecting pipe 223. Specifically, the first connecting pipe 123 is configured to form a smaller liquid path within the first liquid path, with the first pipe 121, the first flow channel 111, the second pipe 122, and the first connecting pipe 123 forming a circulation loop; the second connecting pipe 223 is configured to form a smaller liquid path within the third liquid path, with the fifth pipe 221, the third flow channel 211, the sixth pipe 222, and the second connecting pipe 223 forming a circulation loop. Specifically, the system requires the inlet temperature of the cooling water to be 20±1℃, and the maximum temperature fluctuation should not exceed 5℃ when the heat load is instantaneously applied or stopped. During the operation of the cooling system, it is necessary to ensure that the temperature and flow rate of the cooling water in the first and third liquid passages are as stable as possible. Secondly, in order to cope with the instantaneous heat shock of the load, the cooling system needs to be able to make rapid adjustments. Therefore, by setting the first control valve 124, when the temperature of the first liquid passage is higher than 20°C, the opening of the first control valve 124 is increased. The increased opening of the first control valve 124 allows more cooling water flowing out of the first flow channel 111 to flow to the second pipe 122, that is, the cooling water flow rate from the first flow channel 111 to the second pipe 122 increases. With the total cooling water volume remaining unchanged, the cooling water flow rate entering the first connecting pipe 123 decreases, thereby allowing more cooling water to participate in the heat exchange work flowing through the first heat exchange plate 11. Specifically, more cooling water flowing out of the first pipe 121 can flow to the first flow channel 111, that is, the cooling water flow rate from the first pipe 121 to the first flow channel 111 increases, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the first heat exchange plate 11. By setting a second control valve 224, when the temperature of the third liquid path is higher than 20°C, the opening degree of the second control valve 224 is increased. The increased opening degree of the second control valve 224 allows more cooling water flowing out of the third flow channel 211 to flow to the sixth pipe 222, that is, the cooling water flow rate from the third flow channel 211 to the sixth pipe 222 increases. With the total cooling water volume remaining unchanged, the cooling water flow rate entering the second connecting pipe 223 decreases, thereby allowing more cooling water to participate in the heat exchange work flowing through the second heat exchange plate 21. Specifically, more cooling water flowing out of the fifth pipe 221 can flow to the third flow channel 211, that is, the cooling water flow rate from the fifth pipe 221 to the third flow channel 211 increases, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency of the second heat exchange plate 21. When the temperature of the first liquid path is below 20°C, the opening of the first control valve 124 is reduced. The reduction in the opening of the first control valve 124 reduces the flow rate of cooling water flowing through the second pipe 122 in the first flow channel 111. With the total cooling water volume remaining unchanged, the flow rate of cooling water entering the first connecting pipe 123 increases. That is, more cooling water in the first pipe 121 will flow through the first connecting pipe 123 into the second pipe 122 and eventually flow back to the water tank 6, thereby reducing the flow rate of cooling water participating in the heat exchange of the first heat exchange plate 11.When the temperature of the third liquid path is below 20℃, the opening of the second control valve 224 decreases. This decrease in valve opening reduces the flow rate of cooling water from the third flow channel 211 through the sixth pipe 222. With the total cooling water volume remaining constant, this increases the flow rate of cooling water entering the second connecting pipe 223. Specifically, more cooling water from the fifth pipe 221 flows through the second connecting pipe 223 into the sixth pipe 222 and ultimately back to the water tank 6, thus reducing the flow rate of cooling water participating in the heat exchange of the second heat exchange plate 21. This dynamic control logic continuously monitors the temperature and adjusts the valve opening as needed to ensure the stability of the cooling water temperature.

[0048] For example, both the first control valve 124 and the second control valve 224 are configured as PID control valves.

[0049] Furthermore, the first control valve 124 is configured as a three-way valve, with two of its ports connected to the second pipe 122 and the other port connected to the first connecting pipe 123; the second control valve 224 is configured as a three-way valve, with two of its ports connected to the eighth pipe 232 and the other port connected to the second connecting pipe 223. Specifically, the first control valve 124 is configured as a three-way valve, having a first port, a second port, and a third port. The first and second ports are connected to the second pipe 122, the first port is connected to the outlet of the first flow channel 111, the second port is connected to the inlet of the water tank 6, and the third port is connected to the first connecting pipe 123. Specifically, by increasing the opening of the first control valve 124 (i.e., increasing the opening of the first valve port), the opening of the third valve port is correspondingly decreased, thereby increasing the cooling water flow rate from the first flow channel 111 to the second pipe 122, while decreasing the cooling water flow rate into the first connecting pipe 123, allowing more cooling water to participate in the heat exchange of the first heat exchange plate 11. By decreasing the opening of the first control valve 124 (i.e., decreasing the opening of the first valve port), the opening of the third valve port is correspondingly increased, thereby allowing more cooling water in the first pipe 121 to flow through the first connecting pipe 123 into the second pipe 122 and finally back to the water tank 6, reducing the cooling water flow rate participating in the heat exchange of the first heat exchange plate 11. The second control valve 224 is configured as a three-way valve. The second control valve 224 has a fourth valve port, a fifth valve port and a sixth valve port. The fourth valve port and the fifth valve port are connected to the sixth pipe 222. The fourth valve port is connected to the water outlet of the third flow channel 211, the fifth valve port is connected to the water inlet of the water tank 6, and the sixth valve port is connected to the second connecting pipe 223. Specifically, by increasing the opening of the second control valve 224 (i.e., increasing the opening of the fourth valve port), the opening of the sixth valve port is correspondingly decreased, thereby increasing the cooling water flow rate from the third flow channel 211 to the sixth pipe 222, while decreasing the cooling water flow rate into the second connecting pipe 223, allowing more cooling water to participate in the heat exchange of the second heat exchange plate 21. Conversely, by decreasing the opening of the second control valve 224 (i.e., decreasing the opening of the fourth valve port), the opening of the sixth valve port is correspondingly increased, allowing more cooling water in the fifth pipe 221 to flow through the second connecting pipe 223 into the sixth pipe 222 and finally back to the water tank 6, reducing the cooling water flow rate participating in the heat exchange of the second heat exchange plate 21.

[0050] Furthermore, a first filter 14 is provided on the first pipe 121 and / or the second pipe 122, a second filter 15 is provided on the third pipe 131 and / or the fourth pipe 132, a third filter 25 is provided on the fifth pipe 221 and / or the sixth pipe 222, and a fourth filter 26 is provided on the seventh pipe 231 and / or the eighth pipe 232. Specifically, in this embodiment, the first filter 14 is provided on the first pipe 121, the second filter 15 is provided on the third pipe 131, the third filter 25 is provided on the fifth pipe 221, and the fourth filter 26 is provided on the seventh pipe 231. Specifically, since the cooling water in the first and third liquid paths does not need to be in direct contact with the proton accelerator 4 and the helium compressor unit 5, the filtration accuracy of the first filter 14 and the third filter 25 does not need to be too high, mainly to filter out large particulate impurities in the cooling water. However, the filtration accuracy of the cooling water in the second and fourth liquid paths is required to be higher, at least 50 micrometers. High-precision filter elements ensure the removal of most impurities from the cooling water, such as scale produced by microorganisms and copper rust buildup in the pipes. It's important to note that the accumulation of impurities can gradually clog the filter, leading to increased water resistance; therefore, regular inspection, cleaning, and replacement of the filter are necessary.

[0051] In this embodiment, the cooling system further includes a backup power supply 3, which is electrically connected to the first heat exchanger 1 and the second heat exchanger 2. Specifically, the backup power supply 3 supplies power to the electrical components inside the first heat exchanger 1 and components such as the first booster pump 16, and supplies power to the electrical components inside the second heat exchanger 2 and components such as the second booster pump 27. When the cooling system experiences an unexpected power outage, the backup power supply 3, as a reserve power supply element, can supply power to both the first heat exchanger 1 and the second heat exchanger 2, especially ensuring the power supply to the second heat exchanger 2 to ensure reliable and stable cooling of the helium compressor unit 5.

[0052] In this embodiment, the inlet end of the first flow channel 111 corresponds to the outlet end of the second flow channel 112, and the outlet end of the first flow channel 111 corresponds to the inlet end of the second flow channel 112. The flow directions of the cooling water in the first flow channel 111 and the second flow channel 112 are opposite. Similarly, the inlet end of the third flow channel 211 corresponds to the outlet end of the fourth flow channel 212, and the outlet end of the third flow channel 211 corresponds to the inlet end of the fourth flow channel 212. The flow directions of the cooling water in the third flow channel 211 and the fourth flow channel 212 are opposite. Figure 1With the center position as a reference, cooling water flows from top to bottom in the first flow channel 111 and from bottom to top in the second flow channel 112. The cooling water in the first flow channel 111 and the second flow channel 112 adopts a counter-current heat exchange method. In counter-current heat exchange, the flow directions of the cold and hot cooling water are opposite, making the temperature of the cold cooling water at the outlet of the first flow channel 111 close to the temperature of the hot cooling water at the inlet of the second flow channel 112, thus maintaining a large temperature difference throughout the heat exchange process and improving heat transfer efficiency. Compared with co-current heat exchange, counter-current heat exchange has the largest logarithmic mean temperature difference, which means that under the same heat exchange conditions, counter-current heat exchange can achieve a higher heat exchange effect. Because counter-current heat exchange has a higher heat transfer efficiency, a smaller heat exchange area is required under the same heat exchange load, which can reduce the volume and material usage of the first heat exchange plate 11, reducing manufacturing costs. Figure 1 With the center position as a reference, cooling water flows from top to bottom in the third flow channel 211 and from bottom to top in the fourth flow channel 212. The cooling water in the third and fourth flow channels 211 and 212 employs a counter-current heat exchange method. In counter-current heat exchange, the flow directions of the cold and hot cooling water are opposite, making the temperature of the cold cooling water at the outlet of the third flow channel 211 close to the temperature of the hot cooling water at the inlet of the fourth flow channel 212. This maintains a large temperature difference throughout the heat exchange process, improving heat transfer efficiency. Compared to co-current heat exchange, counter-current heat exchange has the largest logarithmic mean temperature difference, meaning that under the same heat exchange conditions, counter-current heat exchange can achieve a higher heat exchange effect. Because counter-current heat exchange has higher heat transfer efficiency, a smaller heat exchange area is required under the same heat exchange load, reducing the volume and material usage of the second heat exchange plate 21 and lowering manufacturing costs.

[0053] In this embodiment, the proton accelerator 4 includes a first water supply drain 41 and a first water return drain 42. The first water supply drain 41 is connected to the inlet pipe of the internal load 43, and the first water return drain 42 is connected to the outlet of the internal load 43. A third pipe 131 is connected to the first water supply drain 41, and a fourth pipe 132 is connected to the first water return drain 42. The helium compressor unit 5 includes a second water supply drain 51 and a second water return drain 52, and also includes multiple helium compressors 53. The second water supply drain 51 is connected to the inlet of the multiple helium compressors 53, and the second water return drain 52 is connected to the outlet of the multiple helium compressors 53. A seventh pipe 231 is connected to the second water supply drain 51, and an eighth pipe 232 is connected to the second water return drain 52. Specifically, the first water supply drain 41 corresponds to the inlet of the proton accelerator 4, and the first water return drain 42 corresponds to the outlet of the proton accelerator 4. The second water supply drain 51 corresponds to the inlet of the multiple helium compressors 53, and the second water return drain 52 corresponds to the outlet of the multiple helium compressors 53.

[0054] Furthermore, a first temperature and flow sensor 44 is installed on the connecting pipe between the outlet of the internal load 43 and the first return water drain 42, and a second temperature and flow sensor 54 is installed on the connecting pipe between the outlet of the helium compressor 53 and the second return water drain 52. Specifically, multiple first temperature and flow sensors 44 are used to detect the temperature and flow rate of the cooling water at the outlet of the corresponding internal load 43; multiple second temperature and flow sensors 54 are used to detect the temperature and flow rate of the cooling water at the outlet of the corresponding helium compressor 53. Specifically, when the first temperature and flow sensor 44 detects an abnormal signal, the proton accelerator 4 only starts a slow discharge and does not switch the liquid path. When the second temperature and flow sensor 54 detects an abnormal signal, the control system immediately activates the interlock. Specifically, the first three-way valve 243 and the second three-way valve 244 operate. The first three-way valve 243 cuts off the connection between the seventh pipe 231 and the fourth flow channel 212 and opens the connection between the seventh pipe 231 and the ninth pipe 241. Simultaneously, the second three-way valve 244 cuts off the connection between the eighth pipe 232 and the fourth flow channel 212 and opens the connection between the eighth pipe 232 and the tenth pipe 242, causing the fourth liquid circuit to switch to backup water source circulation supply. At the same time, the system can activate the linkage to cause the proton accelerator 4 to enter slow discharge.

[0055] In summary, the cooling system provided in this embodiment has a compact and safe overall structure, saves floor space on the equipment floor, and allows for simple and quick component replacement. The main components of the cooling system are located outside the strong magnetic field, minimizing the impact of residual magnetic fields, resulting in stable and reliable equipment performance. The cryogenic compressor is located close to the heat exchanger, minimizing power and signal loss and reducing water consumption.

[0056] The cooling system logic takes a multi-pronged approach, constraining factors such as flow rate and temperature to ensure the normal operation of the proton system's water cooling components and the reliability and safety of the entire proton system.

[0057] Obviously, the above embodiments of this utility model are merely examples for clearly illustrating the present utility model, and are not intended to limit the implementation of the present utility model. Those skilled in the art can make various obvious changes, readjustments, and substitutions without departing from the protection scope of this utility model. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively describe all embodiments here. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of the claims of this utility model.

Claims

1. A cooling system for a proton therapy device, characterized in that, include: The first heat exchanger (1) includes a first heat exchange plate (11), a first tube (121), a second tube (122), a third tube (131) and a fourth tube (132). The first heat exchange plate has a first flow channel (111) and a second flow channel (112). The two ends of the first tube are respectively connected to the outlet of the water tank (6) and the inlet of the first flow channel. The two ends of the second tube are respectively connected to the inlet of the water tank and the outlet of the first flow channel. The two ends of the third tube are respectively connected to the outlet of the second flow channel and the inlet of the proton accelerator (4). The two ends of the fourth tube are respectively connected to the inlet of the second flow channel and the outlet of the proton accelerator. The second heat exchanger (2) includes a second heat exchange plate (21), a fifth tube (221), a sixth tube (222), a seventh tube (231), and an eighth tube (232). The second heat exchange plate has a third flow channel (211) and a fourth flow channel (212). The two ends of the fifth tube are respectively connected to the outlet of the water tank (6) and the inlet of the third flow channel. The two ends of the sixth tube are respectively connected to the inlet of the water tank and the outlet of the third flow channel. The fifth tube is connected to the inlet of the third flow channel, and the sixth tube is connected to the outlet of the third flow channel. The two ends of the seventh tube are respectively connected to the outlet of the fourth flow channel and the inlet of the helium compressor unit (5). The two ends of the eighth tube are respectively connected to the inlet of the fourth flow channel and the outlet of the helium compressor unit. The second heat exchanger also includes a ninth tube (241) and a tenth tube (242) for connecting to another backup water source. The ninth tube is connected to the seventh tube through a first three-way valve (243), and the tenth tube is connected to the eighth tube through a second three-way valve (244).

2. The cooling system for proton therapy equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that... The first pipe's end away from the first flow channel and the second pipe's end away from the first flow channel are connected to a water tank, which provides cooling water. A first liquid path is formed between the first pipe, the first flow channel, the second pipe, and the water tank for circulating cooling water on one side of the first flow channel. A second liquid path is formed between the third pipe, the proton accelerator, the fourth pipe, and the second flow channel for circulating cooling water on one side of the second flow channel. The fifth pipe's end away from the third flow channel and the sixth pipe's end away from the third flow channel are connected to a water tank, forming a third liquid path for circulating cooling water on one side of the third flow channel. A seventh pipe, the helium compressor unit, the eighth pipe, and the fourth flow channel form a... A fourth liquid path is formed for the circulation of cooling water located on one side of the fourth flow channel. The first liquid path is connected to the third liquid path, while the fourth liquid path is not connected to the second liquid path. This allows the heat in the proton accelerator to be absorbed by the cooling water in the second liquid path. The cooling water flows to the second flow channel and transfers the heat through the first heat exchange plate to the first flow channel, and then through the first flow channel to the cooling water in the first liquid path. The heat is carried away with the cooling water in the first liquid path. The heat in the helium compressor unit is absorbed by the cooling water in the fourth liquid path. The cooling water flows to the fourth flow channel and transfers the heat through the second heat exchange plate to the third flow channel, and then through the third flow channel to the cooling water in the third liquid path. The heat is carried away with the cooling water in the third liquid path.

3. The cooling system for proton therapy equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, A first connecting pipe (123) is connected between the first pipe (121) and the second pipe (122), and a first control valve (124) is provided on the first connecting pipe (123); A second connecting pipe (223) is connected between the fifth pipe (221) and the sixth pipe (222), and a second control valve (224) is provided on the second connecting pipe (223).

4. The proton therapy device cooling system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first control valve (124) is configured as a three-way valve. The first control valve (124) is connected to the second pipe (122) through two of its valve ports, and the first control valve (124) is connected to the first connecting pipe (123) through the other valve port. The second control valve (224) is configured as a three-way valve. The second control valve (224) is connected to the eighth pipe (232) through two of its valve ports, and the other valve port of the second control valve (224) is connected to the second connecting pipe (223).

5. The cooling system for proton therapy equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, A first filter (14) is provided on the first tube (121) and / or the second tube (122), a second filter (15) is provided on the third tube (131) and / or the fourth tube (132), a third filter (25) is provided on the fifth tube (221) and / or the sixth tube (222), and a fourth filter (26) is provided on the seventh tube (231) and / or the eighth tube (232).

6. The cooling system for proton therapy equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The third pipe (131) is equipped with a first booster pump (16), and the seventh pipe (231) is equipped with a second booster pump (27).

7. The cooling system for proton therapy equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a backup power supply (3), which is electrically connected to the first heat exchanger (1) and the second heat exchanger (2).

8. The cooling system for proton therapy equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inlet end of the first flow channel (111) is correspondingly set to the outlet end of the second flow channel (112), the outlet end of the first flow channel (111) is correspondingly set to the inlet end of the second flow channel (112), and the flow direction of the cooling water in the first flow channel (111) and the second flow channel (112) is opposite. The inlet end of the third flow channel (211) is correspondingly set to the outlet end of the fourth flow channel (212), and the outlet end of the third flow channel (211) is correspondingly set to the inlet end of the fourth flow channel (212). The flow direction of the cooling water in the third flow channel (211) and the fourth flow channel (212) is opposite.

9. The cooling system for proton therapy equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The proton accelerator (4) includes a first water supply drain (41) and a first water return drain (42). The first water supply drain (41) is connected to the water inlet pipe of the internal load (43), the first water return drain (42) is connected to the water outlet of the internal load (43), the third pipe (131) is connected to the first water supply drain (41), and the fourth pipe (132) is connected to the first water return drain (42). The helium compressor unit (5) includes a second water supply drain (51) and a second water return drain (52), and also includes multiple helium compressors (53). The second water supply drain (51) is connected to the water inlet of the multiple helium compressors (53), the second water return drain (52) is connected to the water outlet of the multiple helium compressors (53), the seventh pipe (231) is connected to the second water supply drain (51), and the eighth pipe (232) is connected to the second water return drain (52).

10. The cooling system for a proton therapy device according to claim 9, characterized in that, A first temperature and flow sensor (44) is provided on the connecting pipe between the water outlet of the internal load (43) and the first return water drain (42), and a second temperature and flow sensor (54) is provided on the connecting pipe between the water outlet of the helium compressor (53) and the second return water drain (52).

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