Cable protection device, cable protection method, and particle beam therapy system

Abstract

To prevent damage and breakage due to protrusion and entanglement of multiple cables that are wound or unwound around a spool of a rotating gantry.SOLUTION: A cable protection device 50 comprises: a rotating gantry 5 which rotates about a horizontal axis oriented in a horizontal direction; at least one cable group 22 in which a plurality of cables 22A are bundled, each having one end connected to the rotating gantry 5 and the other end connected to a stationary device 30; a spool 23 which is provided on the rotating gantry 5 for winding and unwinding the cable group 22; a cable alignment device 40 which is disposed in a stationary state below the spool 23 and aligns the cable group 22 hanging from the spool 23; and an outer shell 51 which covers at least a part in the longitudinal direction of the cable group 22, and has flexibility and in which at least a portion thereof slides in the longitudinal direction of the cable group 22.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention relate to cable protection technology. [Background technology]

[0002] The rotating gantry of a particle therapy system is equipped with a spool because many cables are connected to the rotating gantry. By using this spool to wind and unwind the cables, it is possible to maintain the cable connection between the equipment inside the rotating gantry and the outside, regardless of the angle of the rotating gantry.

[0003] As the number of cables being wound and unwound increases, they can become untidy. Therefore, technologies to prevent this from happening are known. For example, multiple cables are divided into lanes using flanges, and a cable-arranging device is provided to arrange the cables along the lanes. The cable-arranging device includes mechanisms such as wires, plates, and rotors. Furthermore, a monitoring device equipped with a specific sensor monitors the cables to prevent this from happening. However, even when using the cable-arranging device, a small-diameter cable may slip between multiple cables before they hang down from the spool and are arranged by the cable-arranging device. This may cause friction and cause the cables to protrude from the lane. Furthermore, multiple cables may become entangled within the lane. These events may result in cable damage or breakage. Furthermore, spools have a through-hole for passing the cable from the outside to the inside. However, the cable leading out from the through-hole is subjected to loads due to the weight of the unwound portion, which may damage the cable before its expected service life.

[0004] Another known technique involves hanging the required winding length of the cable from a winding drum under its own weight. Increasing the drum length allows for stable winding and unwinding without the individual cables becoming tangled. However, to ensure stable winding and unwinding without the individual cables becoming tangled, the axial length of the winding drum must be extended, which increases the overall length of the rotating gantry.

[0005] Furthermore, a technology is known in which a cable is housed in a cable carrier and then wound and unwound together with the cable carrier. The cable inside the cable carrier is restrained by clamps or binding strings to prevent erroneous winding. Supporters are available to support the cable in multiple layers. However, the supporter is either a frame with a window through which the cable passes, a bar for supporting the cable, or a wire. When the cable is restrained by the supporter, the cable repeatedly comes into contact with the supporter, which can cause the cable sheath to rub against the supporter, resulting in wear and damage. Furthermore, the cable inside the cable carrier is restrained by the binding strings, which restricts the cable's freedom of movement in the longitudinal direction. In this case, repeated winding and unwinding of the cable can cause partial slack in the cable when the cable is pulled, which can lead to twisting or tangling. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-54929 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-54930 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-54932 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-330037 [Patent Document 5] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-251748 [Patent Document 5] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-67908 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to prevent damage and breakage caused by protrusion and tangling of multiple cables that are wound on or unwound from the spools of the rotating gantry. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A cable protection device according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a rotating gantry that rotates around a horizontal axis facing horizontally; at least one cable group consisting of a bundle of cables, one end of which is connected to the rotating gantry and the other end of which is connected to a stationary device; a spool that is provided on the rotating gantry and winds or unwinds the cable group; a cable arrangement device that is provided stationary below the spool and arranges the cable group hanging down from the spool; and an outer shell that encases at least a portion of the cable group in the longitudinal direction, is flexible, and has at least a portion that slides in the longitudinal direction of the cable group. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention can prevent damage and breakage caused by the multiple cables winding on and unwinding from the rotating gantry spools, which can become tangled or entangled. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a plan view showing the overall configuration of a particle beam therapy system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view showing the rotating gantry of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a side view showing a spool of the rotating gantry of the first embodiment. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is a rear view of the rotating gantry corresponding to the cross section IV-IV in FIG. 3 . [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the wire arranging plate of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the wiring arrangement plate and the wiring arrangement wire of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a side view showing the flange ring lane of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] Cross section showing the cables and outer shell. [Figure 9] A cross-sectional view showing the outer diameter of the cable group and the inner diameter of the outer shell. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a side view showing the flange ring lane of the first modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view showing a through hole of a spool of a second modified example. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a plan view showing the wiring arrangement plate and wiring arrangement wire of variant example 3. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the rotating gantry of the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a side view showing a spool of the rotating gantry of the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a side view showing the flange ring lane of the second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view showing a through hole of a spool of a fourth modified example. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is a rear view of the rotating gantry of the third embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view showing a through hole of a spool according to a third embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a side view showing a flange ring lane according to the third embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the rotating gantry of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a side view showing a flange ring lane according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a side view showing the flange lane of variant 5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] (First embodiment) Hereinafter, embodiments of a cable protection device, a cable protection method, and a particle beam therapy system will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. First, a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9. Note that the left side of the pages of FIGS. 2, 3, 6, and 7 will be the front side (front side) of the rotating gantry, and the right side of the pages will be the back side (rear side) of the rotating gantry. These drawings are illustrated in a Cartesian coordinate system, where the axial direction of the rotating gantry is the Z direction, the vertical direction (up and down direction) perpendicular to this is the Y direction, and the horizontal direction perpendicular to these is the X direction. Note that the X and Y directions may be referred to as the radial direction of the rotating gantry. Furthermore, the direction of rotation around the axis along the outer circumferential surface of the rotating gantry may be referred to as the circumferential direction.

[0012] Reference numeral 1 in Fig. 1 denotes a particle beam therapy system. This particle beam therapy system 1 performs treatment by irradiating a lesion tissue (cancer) of a patient 8 (Fig. 2) as a subject with a charged particle beam 7 (Fig. 2) using charged particles such as carbon ions. The charged particle beam 7 is therapeutic radiation.

[0013] Radiation therapy technology using particle beam therapy system 1 is also known as heavy ion beam cancer treatment technology. This technology uses carbon ions to pinpoint cancer lesions (affected areas), damaging them while minimizing damage to normal cells. Particle beams are defined as radiation heavier than electrons, including proton beams and heavy ion beams. Heavy ion beams are defined as those heavier than helium atoms.

[0014] Heavy ion cancer therapy has a higher ability to kill cancer lesions than conventional cancer therapy using X-rays, gamma rays, or proton beams, and has the characteristic that the radiation dose is weak on the surface of the patient's body (Figure 2) and peaks at the cancer lesions. This allows for fewer irradiations, fewer side effects, and a shorter treatment period.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, a particle beam therapy system 1 includes a beam generator 2, a circular accelerator 3, a beam transport line 4, and a rotating gantry 5.

[0016] The beam generator 2 has an ion source of carbon ions, which are charged particles, and generates a charged particle beam 7 (Fig. 2) using these carbon ions. The circular accelerator 3 is ring-shaped in plan view and accelerates the charged particle beam 7 generated by the beam generator 2. The beam transport line 4 transports the charged particle beam 7 accelerated by the circular accelerator 3 to the rotating gantry 5. A patient 8 (Fig. 2) who is to be irradiated with the charged particle beam 7 is placed on the rotating gantry 5.

[0017] In this particle beam therapy system 1, first, a charged particle beam 7 of carbon ions generated by a beam generator 2 is injected from the beam generator 2 into a circular accelerator 3. This charged particle beam 7 is accelerated to approximately 70% of the speed of light while circulating approximately one million times around the circular accelerator 3. Then, this charged particle beam 7 is guided to a rotating gantry 5 via a beam transport line 4.

[0018] The beam generator 2, circular accelerator 3, and beam transport line 4 are equipped with a vacuum duct 6 (beam pipe) whose interior is evacuated. A charged particle beam 7 travels through this vacuum duct 6. The vacuum ducts 6 of the beam generator 2, circular accelerator 3, and beam transport line 4 are integrated to form a transport path that guides the charged particle beam 7 to the rotating gantry 5. In other words, the vacuum duct 6 is a sealed, continuous space with a sufficient degree of vacuum to allow the charged particle beam 7 to pass through.

[0019] As shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 2, the rotating gantry 5 is a cylindrical device. The rotating gantry 5 is positioned so that the axis of the cylinder faces horizontally. The rotating gantry 5 can rotate around this horizontal axis 9.

[0020] The rotating gantry 5 is supported by a framework 10 of a building that constitutes the treatment facility in which the particle beam therapy system 1 is installed. For example, end rings 11 are fixed to the front and rear of the main body of the rotating gantry 5. Rotational drivers 12 that rotatably support the end rings 11 and include drive motors are provided below the end rings 11. These rotational drivers 12 are supported by the framework 10. The driving force of the rotational drivers 12 is applied to the rotating gantry 5 via the end rings 11, causing the rotating gantry 5 to rotate around the horizontal axis 9.

[0021] The rotating gantry 5 is provided with a vacuum duct 6 extending from the beam transport line 4 (FIG. 1). The vacuum duct 6 is first led from the rear side of the rotating gantry 5 into the interior along its horizontal axis 9. The vacuum duct 6 then extends once outward from the outer circumferential surface of the rotating gantry 5, and then extends again inward of the rotating gantry 5. The tip of this vacuum duct 6 extends to a position close to the patient 8.

[0022] Although not specifically shown, a predetermined rotation mechanism is provided in the vacuum duct 6 at a portion along the horizontal axis 9 of the rotating gantry 5. The portion of the vacuum duct 6 outside this rotation mechanism is stationary, while the portion inside this rotation mechanism rotates together with the rotation of the rotating gantry 5.

[0023] The rotating gantry 5 is also provided with an irradiation nozzle 13 that irradiates the patient 8 with the charged particle beam 7, and a transport device 14 that transports the charged particle beam 7 to the irradiation nozzle 13. In other words, the irradiation nozzle 13 and the transport device 14 are supported by the rotating gantry 5.

[0024] Furthermore, the transport device 14 includes superconducting electromagnets 15 that generate magnetic fields that form a path for transporting the charged particle beam 7. These superconducting electromagnets 15 are, for example, bending electromagnets that change the traveling direction of the charged particle beam 7 along the vacuum duct 6, or quadrupole electromagnets that control the convergence and divergence of the charged particle beam 7.

[0025] The irradiation nozzle 13 is provided at the tip of the vacuum duct 6 and irradiates the charged particle beam 7 guided by the transport device 14 toward the patient 8. The irradiation nozzle 13 is fixed to the inner peripheral surface of the rotating gantry 5. The charged particle beam 7 is irradiated from the irradiation nozzle 13 in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal axis 9.

[0026] A treatment space 16 where particle beam therapy is performed is provided inside the rotating gantry 5. A patient 8 is placed on a treatment table 17 provided in this treatment space 16. This treatment table 17 is movable with the patient 8 placed on it. By moving this treatment table 17, the patient 8 can be moved to the irradiation position of the charged particle beam 7 and aligned. Therefore, the charged particle beam 7 can be irradiated to an appropriate area of ​​the patient 8, such as the lesion tissue.

[0027] The patient 8 is positioned at the position of the horizontal axis 9, and by rotating the rotating gantry 5, the irradiation nozzle 13 can be rotated around the stationary patient 8. For example, the irradiation nozzle 13 can be rotated 180 degrees clockwise (right) or counterclockwise (left) in a rear view around the patient 8 (horizontal axis 9). The charged particle beam 7 can then be irradiated from any direction around the patient 8. In other words, the rotating gantry 5 is a device that can change the irradiation direction of the charged particle beam 7 guided by the beam transport line 4 onto the patient 8. Therefore, the charged particle beam 7 can be irradiated to the affected area from an appropriate direction with higher accuracy while reducing the burden on the patient 8.

[0028] As the charged particle beam 7 passes through the body of the patient 8, it loses kinetic energy and slows down, and is subjected to resistance that is approximately inversely proportional to the square of the velocity, causing it to suddenly stop when it slows down to a certain speed. This stopping point of the charged particle beam 7 is called the Bragg peak, and high energy is emitted from it. By aligning this Bragg peak with the position of the lesion tissue (affected area) of the patient 8, the particle therapy system 1 can destroy only the lesion tissue while minimizing damage to normal tissue.

[0029] The treatment space 16 provided inside the rotating gantry 5 is formed to be integrated with the treatment room 18 located in front of the rotating gantry 5. The treatment table 17 is fixed to the floor 19 of the stationary treatment room 18. In other words, even if the rotating gantry 5 and irradiation nozzle 13 rotate, the position of the treatment table 17 does not change.

[0030] A counterweight 20 is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the rotating gantry 5 on the side opposite to the part where the transport device 14 is installed. This counterweight 20 is provided to balance the transport device 14 with the rotating gantry 5 as the center. In other words, the weight of the counterweight 20 is set to correspond to the weight of the transport device 14. In addition, below the rotating gantry 5, a weight pit 21 is provided which is recessed in the body 10 and through which the counterweight 20 can pass as the rotating gantry 5 rotates.

[0031] Furthermore, a plurality of cable groups 22 are led from the outside to the rotating gantry 5. Each cable group 22 is formed by bundling a plurality of cables 22A (FIG. 8). These cables 22A are, for example, power supply cables, signal lines, flexible hoses for coolant, etc., and are provided to supply power to predetermined devices provided on the rotating gantry 5 and to transmit control signals. These cables 22A include a flexible hose that supplies coolant to the superconducting electromagnet 15 of the transportation device 14.

[0032] A spool 23 is provided at the rear of the rotating gantry 5 to wind or unwind the cable group 22 as the rotating gantry 5 rotates. The axis of the spool 23 coincides with the horizontal axis 9 of the rotating gantry 5.

[0033] Below the spool 23, a cable pit 24 is provided, which is formed in a recessed shape in the body 10 and can accommodate the group of cables 22 hanging down from the spool 23. The width dimension of the cable pit 24 in the X direction is set to be larger than the diameter of the spool 23.

[0034] As shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 3, the spool 23 is provided so as to protrude rearward from the rear of the rotating gantry 5. The spool 23 is a cylindrical portion formed to have a diameter smaller than the diameter of the main body of the rotating gantry 5. The spool 23 includes a disk-shaped flange 25, a plurality of disk-shaped flange rings 26, and a plurality of recessed lanes 27 (Figure 7) that hold the cable group 22.

[0035] The flange 25 is provided at the rear end of the spool 23. A plurality of flange rings 26 are arranged side by side in the axial direction (Z direction) between the flange 25 and the rotating gantry 5. These flange rings 26 are formed to have a diameter smaller than that of the flange 25. The rear flange ring 26 closest to the flange 25 is provided at a position spaced apart from the flange 25. A plurality of lanes 27 (FIG. 7) are formed between each of the flange rings 26.

[0036] 7, each lane 27 accommodates a cable group 22. For example, one cable group 22 is accommodated in one lane 27. Note that two or more cable groups 22 may be accommodated in one lane 27.

[0037] When the cable group 22 is wound around the circumferential direction of the spool 23, the multiple cable groups 22 are arranged side by side in the axial direction (Z direction) of the spool 23 in accordance with the arrangement of the flange ring 26 and the lanes 27. When the cables 22A hang down from the spool 23, the multiple cables 22A are arranged side by side in the axial direction (Z direction) of the spool 23 (FIG. 6).

[0038] The width of each lane 27 may differ depending on the number or thickness (diameter) of the cable groups 22 accommodated therein. Furthermore, each lane 27 may accommodate cable groups 22 of different types or thicknesses.

[0039] Both corners of the peripheral surface 28 of each flange ring 26 are cut away to form chamfered portions 29 (bevels). In other words, the peripheral edge of the flange ring 26 is chamfered to form the chamfered portions 29. In this way, when the cable group 22 is housed in the lane 27, the cable group 22 is less likely to get caught on the flange ring 26. This reduces the friction or tension on the cable group 22 caused by the cable group 22 getting caught on the flange ring 26, and prevents the cable group 22 from becoming irregularly wound.

[0040] For example, the chamfered portions 29 are inclined surfaces that are inclined at an angle of approximately 45° with respect to the protruding direction of the flange ring 26. By providing these chamfered portions 29, the opening of the lane 27 is widened, and the cable group 22 can be smoothly accommodated in the lane 27.

[0041] Note that even when the chamfered portion 29 is provided, part of the circumferential surface 28 of the flange ring 26 remains. For example, the circumferential surface 28 at the tip of the flange ring 26 remains. In this way, even if the cable group 22 gets caught on the flange ring 26, it is possible to prevent the cables 22A from being cut or the cable group 22 from being worn.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 4, one end of each cable group 22 is connected to a spool 23 of the rotating gantry 5 and the other end is connected to a stationary fixing device 30. The fixing device 30 is fixed to, for example, the frame 10. Each cable 22A constituting the cable group 22 is composed of, for example, a power line for supplying power, a signal line for transmitting control signals, a flexible hose for supplying coolant, etc. The fixing device 30 is composed of, for example, a power supply, a terminal block, a pump for supplying coolant, etc. Note that while FIG. 4 is a rear view of the rotating gantry 5, the main body of the rotating gantry 5, the rotation drive unit 12, the transport device 14, etc. are not shown to facilitate understanding.

[0043] One end of the cable group 22 is introduced into the rotating gantry 5 through a through hole 31 formed in the spool 23. Then, the cable 22A is connected to equipment such as a superconducting electromagnet 15 (FIG. 2) provided on the rotating gantry 5. One end of the cable group 22 is fixed to the through hole 31. Each cable of the cable group 22 is wound circumferentially around the outer periphery of the spool 23 from the fixed through hole 31 portion.

[0044] The flexible hose is hollow and is provided to supply a coolant such as liquid helium or liquid nitrogen to the superconducting electromagnet 15. This flexible hose is a pressure-resistant hose with woven metal wires to increase its pressure resistance, and can supply the coolant at a predetermined pressure.

[0045] 3 and 4, the multiple cable groups 22 are divided into a first group G1 and a second group G2. The first group G1 and the second group G2 may be divided according to the type of cable group 22 or according to the device to which the cable group 22 is connected. Accordingly, multiple flange rings 26 around which the multiple cable groups 22 of the first group G1 are wound and multiple flange rings 26 around which the multiple cable groups 22 of the second group G2 are wound are provided.

[0046] The cable group 22 of the first group G1 and the cable group 22 of the second group G2 are wound around the spool 23 in different directions. For example, when the rotating gantry 5 rotates counterclockwise in a rear view, the cable group 22 of the first group G1 is wound onto the spool 23, and the cable group 22 of the second group G2 is unwound from the spool 23. On the other hand, when the rotating gantry 5 rotates clockwise, the cable group 22 of the first group G1 is unwound from the spool 23, and the cable group 22 of the second group G2 is wound onto the spool 23.

[0047] 4 illustrates only the first group G1 of cables 22 and omits the second group G2 of cables 22. In an actual rear view, the first group G1 of cables 22 and the second group G2 of cables 22 hanging down from the spool 23 appear to intersect at the cable pit 24.

[0048] The particle beam therapy system 1 is provided with a cable arranging device 40 for the rotating gantry 5. The cable arranging device 40 includes a plurality of cable arranging wires 41 and a plurality of cable arranging plates 42. The cable group 22 passes between the cable arranging wires 41 and the cable arranging plates 42. The cable arranging device 40 is provided to arranging the plurality of cable groups 22 and to prevent the cable groups 22 from being untidy.

[0049] The cable arranging devices 40 are provided for arranging the cable group 22 of the first group G1 and for arranging the cable group 22 of the second group G2. Note that, to facilitate understanding, FIG. 4 illustrates only the cable arranging device 40 of the first group G1, and does not illustrate the cable arranging device 40 of the second group G2. The cable arranging devices 40 for the first group G1 and the second group G2 have the same configuration and are arranged symmetrically with respect to the rotating gantry 5. For example, in an actual rear view, the cable arranging wires 41 of the first group G1 and the second group G2 appear to be strung in an X-shaped cross pattern.

[0050] A plurality of wire arranging wires 41 are provided in a stationary state, hanging laterally below the spool 23. These wire arranging wires 41 are provided to separate the plurality of cable groups 22 hanging down from the spool 23. In this way, it is possible to prevent the cable groups 22 from being wound in a disorderly manner.

[0051] Each of the wiring arrangement wires 41 is provided at a position corresponding to each of the flange rings 26, and is arranged in the same direction as the flange rings 26. In this way, it is possible to separate the multiple cable groups 22 arranged in the axial direction.

[0052] For example, as shown in FIG. 6, in a wire arranging device 40, the area where wire arranging wires 41 are provided overlaps with the area where wire arranging plates 42 are provided. The multiple wire arranging wires 41 are stretched so as to be parallel to one another. Wire arranging plates 42 are arranged between the respective wire arranging wires 41. In a plan view, the wire arranging plates 42 and the wire arranging wires 41 are arranged alternately in the axial direction (Z direction). In other words, one wire arranging wire 41 is stretched between two wire arranging plates 42, and the wire arranging wires 41 and the wire arranging plates 42 are arranged so as to be parallel to one another.

[0053] A plurality of cable groups 22 arranged in the axial direction (Z direction) are separated by at least one of the wiring arrangement wire 41 and the wiring arrangement plate 42. Each cable group 22 is held in a state sandwiched between the wiring arrangement wire 41 and the wiring arrangement plate 42.

[0054] The arranging wire 41 and the arranging plate 42 are aligned with the arrangement of the flange ring 26 (FIG. 3). In other words, the cable group 22 arranged between the arranging wire 41 and the arranging plate 42 corresponds to the cable group 22 housed in the lane 27. When the cable group 22 is wound or unwound, the cable group 22 is partitioned along the arranging wire 41 and the arranging plate 42. This prevents contact between the cables 22, reduces friction or tension on the cables 22 caused by the contact, and suppresses shaking of the cables 22 and irregular winding.

[0055] The multiple cable groups 22 are separated by the wiring arrangement plate 42, which is a rigid member, and this can suppress the vibration of the cable groups 22. Furthermore, the side of the outer periphery of the cable group 22 opposite to the side that is in contact with the wiring arrangement plate 42 is in contact with the wiring arrangement wire 41, which is a flexible member, and therefore the vibration of the cable group 22 can be absorbed.

[0056] As shown in Fig. 4, wire stands 43 extending upward from the bottom surface of cable pit 24 are fixed to frame 10 in which cable pit 24 is formed. For example, a pair of wire stands 43, one on the left and one on the right, spaced apart in the X direction, are provided for one wiring arrangement wire 41. One end and the other end of wiring arrangement wire 41 are fixed to these wire stands 43.

[0057] The wiring arranging wire 41 is stretched in a state inclined with respect to the horizontal direction. In this way, the wiring arranging wire 41 contacts the cable group 22 hanging down vertically at an angle, thereby reducing the resistance when the wiring arranging wire 41 rubs against the cable group 22. This reduces the occurrence of wear or irregular winding of the cable group 22.

[0058] Furthermore, when spool 23 is divided into a semicircle on the side where cable group 22 hangs down and an opposite semicircle, wiring arranging wire 41 is inclined so that the side where cable group 22 hangs down is higher and the other side is lower. In this way, the angle at which cable group 22 contacts wiring arranging wire 41 is small, and cable group 22 comes into contact with wiring arranging wire 41 gently.

[0059] Furthermore, the wiring arranging wire 41 is provided in a position close to the flange ring 26 and extends in a tangential direction to the periphery of the flange ring 26. In this way, the wiring arranging wire 41 can guide the cable group 22 in the portion where the cable group 22 is no longer held by the flange ring 26. Therefore, friction or tension greater than expected is not applied to the cable group 22, and irregular winding can be suppressed.

[0060] The plurality of wire arrangement plates 42 are provided in parallel and stationary in positions close to the spool 23. These wire arrangement plates 42 are provided below the spool 23 to separate the plurality of cable groups 22 arranged in the axial direction (Z direction). In this way, the wire arrangement plates 42 separate the cable groups 22 into individual groups in the axial direction, thereby preventing the cable groups 22 from being wound in a disorderly manner.

[0061] Each of the wire arrangement plates 42 is provided at a position corresponding to each of the flange rings 26, and is arranged in the direction in which the flange rings 26 are arranged. In this way, it is possible to separate the multiple cables 22A arranged in the axial direction.

[0062] 5 and 6, each of the cable arranging plates 42 is a plate-like member that is crescent-shaped in rear view. The cable arranging plates 42 are spaced apart from each other and connected by connecting members 44. The connecting members 44 are, for example, rod-shaped members that extend in the axial direction (Z direction). These connecting members 44 restrict the horizontal movement range of the cable group 22 (X direction). Therefore, the cable group 22 hanging down from the spool 23 is accommodated in the cable arranging device 40, and even if the cable group 22 sways, irregular winding does not occur.

[0063] Each of the cable arranging plates 42 has a curved edge 45 that is curved along the peripheral edge of the flange ring 26. These curved edges 45 are provided in positions closer to the flange ring 26 than the cable arranging wire 41. In this way, the cable group 22 is guided by the rigid cable arranging plates 42 at positions where the cable group 22 enters and exits the lane 27 (FIG. 7) between the flange rings 26. This prevents the cables 22 from coming into contact with each other unintentionally and also prevents the cables 22 from swaying, making it possible to prevent the cables from becoming untidy.

[0064] As shown in Fig. 4, plate stands 46 extending upward from the bottom surface of the cable pit 24 are fixed to the frame 10 in which the cable pit 24 is formed. For example, a plurality of plate stands 46 are provided spaced apart in the X direction. Connecting members 44 are fixed to these plate stands 46. A wire arrangement plate 42 is fixed to the connecting members 44.

[0065] Although the wiring arranging plate 42 is provided so as to overlap the area where the wiring arranging wire 41 is provided, other configurations are also possible. For example, the area where the wiring arranging wire 41 is provided and the area where the wiring arranging plate 42 is provided may be different from each other in the axial direction (Z direction). Some of the cable groups 22 lined up in the axial direction may be separated by the wiring arranging plate 42, and other cable groups 22 may be separated by the wiring arranging wire 41.

[0066] Although the wire arranging plate 42 is provided at a height position overlapping the wire arranging plate 41, other configurations are also possible. For example, the height positions (positions in the Y direction) at which the wire arranging plate 42 and the wire arranging wire 41 are provided may be different from each other. In particular, the wire arranging plate 42 may be provided at a position close to the flange ring 26, and the wire arranging wire 41 may be stretched below the wire arranging plate 42.

[0067] Although the wire arranging device 40 is configured to include both the wire arranging wire 41 and the wire arranging plate 42, other configurations are also possible. For example, the wire arranging device 40 may be configured to include either the wire arranging wire 41 or the wire arranging plate 42. In other words, the wire arranging device 40 may include only the wire arranging wire 41, and the wire arranging plate 42 may be omitted. Alternatively, the wire arranging device 40 may include only the wire arranging plate 42, and the wire arranging wire 41 may be omitted.

[0068] Note that the wire arranging wire 41 or the wire arranging plate 42 may be provided only in the portion of the cable group 22 that protrudes from the spool 23. The wire arranging device 40 may also arrange the cable group 22 by diameter or by type. Note that flexible hoses and power lines have different bending conditions, so they are arranged according to their respective types.

[0069] It is not necessary for other cables 22A adjacent to one cable group 22 to be bundled together. The wire arrangement device 40 can separate the cable group 22 hanging down from the spool 23 from at least one other cable 22A.

[0070] Although the multiple cable groups 22 are arranged in the axial direction (Z direction), other configurations are also possible. For example, the multiple cable groups 22 may be arranged in the radial direction (X direction and Y direction) of the spool 23. The multiple cable groups 22 may be accommodated in one lane 27 between the flange rings 26.

[0071] Next, the cable protection device 50 provided in the particle beam therapy system 1 will be described. A cable protection method is carried out using this cable protection device 50. As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the rotating gantry 5, including its main body and associated devices and equipment, is also referred to as a rotating gantry system. This rotating gantry system also serves as the cable protection device 50.

[0072] The cable protection device 50 comprises a rotating gantry 5 , at least one cable group 22 , a cable dressing device 40 and at least one outer shell 51 .

[0073] One cable group 22 is a bundle of multiple cables 22A. One outer shell 51 is a flexible member that encloses at least a portion of the length of one cable group 22, and at least a portion of which slides in the length direction of the cable group 22.

[0074] As shown in Fig. 8, the outer shell 51 is a flexible tubular (cylindrical) member that houses the multiple cables 22A. The outer shell 51 is a member that limits the outward freedom of the bundled multiple cables 22A. The outer shell 51 is configured, for example, by winding a rubber or cloth sheet around the bundle of the multiple cables 22A. In the example of Fig. 8, three cables 22A are housed in one outer shell 51 to form one cable group 22.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 9, the inner diameter D1 of the outer shell 51 is larger than the virtual outer diameter D2 of the bundle of cables 22A (cable group 22). Here, the difference (gap) between the inner diameter D1 of the outer shell 51 and the outer diameter D2 of the bundle of cables 22A is set arbitrarily. For example, when three cables 22A are housed in the outer shell 51, the inner diameter D1 of the outer shell 51 is set to a size large enough to house four or more cables 22A. In other words, the outer shell 51 encases the multiple cables 22A while allowing them to move freely in the longitudinal direction. In this way, the outer shell 51 is able to slide in the longitudinal direction of the bundle of cables 22A. The number of cables 22A housed in the outer shell 51 may be determined based on the width of the lane 27.

[0076] Furthermore, silicone oil is applied to the area of ​​the cable group 22 in the longitudinal direction where the outer shell 51 is provided. This reduces the friction between the outer surface of the cable group 22 and the inner surface of the outer shell 51. Furthermore, it allows the cable group 22 to have freedom of sliding in the longitudinal direction. In other words, the outer shell 51 can easily slide over the outer surface of the cable group 22. The silicone oil is applied to at least one of the outer surface of the cable group 22 or the inner surface of the outer shell 51 using, for example, a silicone spray.

[0077] 4, the cable protection device 50 includes at least one fastening member 52 and a plurality of holding members 53. The fastening member 52 and the holding member 53 are string-like or tape-like members. For example, the fastening member 52 and the holding member 53 may be cable ties.

[0078] The fastening member 52 is a member for fastening the end of the outer shell 51 that is connected to the spool 23 to the group of cables 22. In this way, the position of the outer shell 51 in the longitudinal direction of the group of cables 22 can be fixed so that it does not change due to rotation of the spool 23. In other words, the fastening member 52 prevents the position of the outer shell 51 from shifting when the spool 23 is repeatedly wound or unwound by rotation of the spool 23. The fastening member 52 may also be a member for bonding the outer shell 51 to the group of cables 22 with an adhesive.

[0079] The multiple holding members 53 are members that are spaced at regular intervals and that fasten the outer shell 51 to the cable group 22 in a slidable state. In this way, the outer shell 51 can slide along the longitudinal direction of the cable group 22 while accommodating the cable group 22. For example, multiple outer shells 51 are connected by multiple holding members 53. Also, one long outer shell 51 may be wrapped around multiple holding members 53.

[0080] By holding outer shell 51 at regular intervals with a plurality of holding members 53, cable 22A can be prevented from jumping out of outer shell 51.

[0081] The end of the outer shell 51 opposite to the side connected to the spool 23 is not held by the holding member 53. In other words, the end of the outer shell 51 opposite to the side connected to the spool 23 is a free end.

[0082] The range in the longitudinal direction of the cable group 22 where the outer shell 51 is provided is the range that passes through the wire arranging device 40. For example, an upper end portion E1 of the range in which the outer shell 51 is provided is a portion near the through hole 31 of the spool 23, and a lower end portion E2 of the range in which the outer shell 51 is provided is a portion that is lower than the wire arranging device 40 when the cable group 22 is wound around the spool 23. In this way, the outer shell 51 can protect the portion of the cable group 22 in the longitudinal direction that comes into contact with the wire arranging device 40.

[0083] Furthermore, the lower end portion E2 of the range in the longitudinal direction of the cable group 22 where the outer shell 51 is provided is located at a position higher than the lowest position P of the hanging cable group 22. In this way, the outer shell 51 is positioned above the lowest part of the cable group 22, and therefore the sheet constituting the outer shell 51 can be prevented from rolling up due to its own weight.

[0084] The multiple cables 22A are bundled together by the outer shell 51. Therefore, when the multiple cables 22A are wound around or unwound by the spool 23, the outer shell 51 can prevent the cables 22A from coming into contact with other components, thereby suppressing damage to the cables 22A.

[0085] Next, modified examples will be described. As shown in Modification 1 of Fig. 10, a plurality of cable groups 22 may be housed in each lane 27. Furthermore, in addition to the cable group 22, a plurality of unbundled cables 22B and 22C may also be housed in each lane 27. For example, cable 22B is a flexible hose, and cable 22C is a power supply cable.

[0086] The flange ring 26 can separate the cable group 22 from at least one other cable 22B, 22C.

[0087] Note that cable 22A and other cables 22B, 22C of cable group 22 may be of different types. For example, they may be different in thickness or hardness. Each type of cable 22A, 22B, 22C may have a different allowable minimum radius of curvature when bent.

[0088] As shown in the second modification in Fig. 11, a cable protection device 50 includes a through hole 31 and a clamp member 54. Note that other members are not shown in Fig. 11 to facilitate understanding.

[0089] The through hole 31 is a hole that passes through the spool 23 and allows the cables 22 to pass from the outside to the inside of the spool 23. The clamp member 54 is a member that is provided in the through hole 31 and fixed to the outer and inner peripheral surfaces of the spool 23 to clamp the cables 22. The through hole 31 is formed at a position where the direction (circumferential direction) of the cables 22 that are led out from the inside of the spool 23 does not change with the rotation of the spool 23. The clamp member 54 is, for example, a metal tubular or rectangular tubular member. In this way, the clamp member 54 can fix the portion of the cables 22A in the longitudinal direction that is subjected to a load due to the rotation of the spool 23, thereby preventing damage such as fraying of the cables 22A.

[0090] Furthermore, at least a portion of the clamp member 54 is bent. The radii of curvature of the bent portions K1 and K2 are larger than the largest minimum radius of curvature allowable for each of the cables 22A included in the cable group 22. This prevents a load from being applied to the cable 22A due to bending of the clamp member 54. The shape of the clamp member 54 may be linear or may have a curve. However, the radius of curvature is designed so as not to be smaller than the minimum radius of curvature of the cable 22A to be fixed.

[0091] Conventionally, when the cable 22A is unwound from the through hole 31 of the spool 23, the cable 22A may be pressed against the side surface (inner peripheral surface) of the through hole 31 due to its own weight. This load, which is less than the minimum radius of curvature of the cable 22A, accelerates fatigue of the cable 22A, resulting in breakage of the cable 22A earlier than its expected lifespan. The innermost cable 22A is particularly susceptible to damage because it is also affected by the other cables 22A that overlap it. In response to this problem, the present embodiment can reduce the load on the cable 22A in the through hole 31 of the spool 23. For example, the cable 22A is fixed in place by a clamp member 54 in the through hole 31. Here, the cable 22A is restrained by the clamp member 54, and is therefore not subject to external forces. This prevents the cable 22A from being significantly shortened in lifespan and breaking.

[0092] Furthermore, in the conventional method of restraining cable 22A between the inside and outside of spool 23, the posture of cable 22A passing through through hole 31 may become unstable depending on the rotation angle of rotating gantry 5, which may lead to unexpected damage to cable 22A. This embodiment can solve this problem.

[0093] When the cable 22A is fixed near the through-hole 31 of the spool 23 by the clamp member 54, the spool 23 is designed so that the rotation angle is such that the payout direction of the cable 22A is always the same.

[0094] By newly employing the clamp member 54 near the through hole 31, the load applied to the cable 22A near the through hole 31 can be reduced, and the life of the cable 22A can be extended.

[0095] 12, in the wire arranging device 40 of Modification 3, the range in which the wire arranging wires 41 are provided and the range in which the wire arranging plates 42 are provided are different from each other in the axial direction (Z direction). For example, a plurality of wire arranging plates 42 are arranged in a predetermined range along the axial direction, and the wire arranging plates 42 are arranged in a different range. Some of the plurality of cable groups 22 and cables 22B arranged in the axial direction are separated by the wire arranging wires 41, and some of the plurality of cable groups 22 and cables 22C are separated by the wire arranging plates 42.

[0096] For example, cable group 22 and cables 22B, 22C can be separated using members suitable for each type. For example, cable group 22 and cables 22B, 22C of types that are suitable for separation by flexible members are separated by wiring arrangement wire 41. On the other hand, cable group 22 and cables 22B, 22C of types that are suitable for separation by rigid members are separated by wiring arrangement board 42.

[0097] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 13 to 15. Note that the same components as those shown in the above-described embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals and redundant description will be omitted.

[0098] As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, a cable protection device 50 of the second embodiment includes a through hole 31 in a spool 23 and at least one cable carrier 55.

[0099] The cable carrier 55 accommodates at least one cable group 22. In the second embodiment, a plurality of cable groups 22 and a cable 22B are accommodated in the cable carrier 55. An end of the cable carrier 55 is connected to the through hole 31 of the spool 23 and extends from the through hole 31.

[0100] In addition, below the spool 23, a wire arranging device 40, serving as a wire arranging wire 41, is provided for arranging the cable carrier 55. Furthermore, in the cable pit 24 located below the spool 23, a guide device 56 for guiding the cable carrier 55 is provided.

[0101] The guide device 56 includes a guide frame 57 and rollers 58. The guide frame 57 is a member that is fixed to the bottom surface of the cable pit 24 and extends upward. A plurality of rollers 58 are provided on the upper part of the guide frame 57. These rollers 58 are provided in positions that sandwich the cable carrier 55. When the cable carrier 55 is wound or unwound by the rotation of the spool 23, the cable carrier 55 is slidably guided by the rollers 58.

[0102] The cable carrier 55 is wound and unwound perpendicularly to the radial direction of the spool 23. Here, a guide device 56 is provided for the cable carrier 55 hanging down from the spool 23 between the spool 23 and the bottom surface (floor surface) of the cable pit 24.

[0103] When the cable carrier 55 is wound onto and unwound from the spool 23, the guide device 56 can minimize the load on the cable carrier 55. The guide device 56 may guide the cable carrier 55 at multiple locations.

[0104] The cable carrier 55 unwound from the spool 23 is housed in the cable pit 24. When the cable carrier 55 is wound onto the spool 23, it is housed in the lane 27 of the flange ring 26.

[0105] 15, the group of cables 22 wrapped in the outer shell 51 is housed in the cable carrier 55. Furthermore, other cables 22B that are not wrapped in the outer shell 51 are also housed in the cable carrier 55.

[0106] The multiple cables 22A housed in the cable carrier 55 may be a mixture of cables with different thicknesses (diameters) or rigidities. The cable carriers 55 may be arranged overlapping each other in the circumferential direction of the spool 23. The multiple cable carriers 55 may be arranged in parallel in the axial direction of the spool 23. When the cable carriers 55 are arranged in the axial direction, the flange rings 26 between the cable carriers 55 may be omitted.

[0107] 13, the cable carrier 55 has a length that allows it to be positioned on the bottom surface (floor surface) of the cable pit 24 when it is unwound from the spool 23. In this way, it is possible to reduce the load that is applied to the group of cables 22 due to the cable carrier's own weight when it is unwound from the spool 23. It is also preferable that the lower end of the cable carrier 55 is positioned on the bottom surface (floor surface) of the cable pit 24 even when the cable carrier 55 is wound to the maximum extent around the spool 23. In this way, a portion of the weight of the cable carrier 55 is always applied to the bottom surface of the cable pit 24, thereby reducing the load that is applied to the group of cables 22.

[0108] In the second embodiment, in addition to the protection provided by the outer shell 51, the cable carrier 55 can also protect the cable group 22.

[0109] By employing the outer shell 51 and cable carrier 55 that cover the cable group 22, the cables 22A can be protected and damage such as breakage of the cables 22A can be prevented or suppressed. In addition, tangling of the cables 22A in the same lane 27 and the resulting protrusion of the cables from the lane 27 can be prevented. This prevents or suppresses damage to the cables 22A and prevents or suppresses a disorderly winding state in which the cables get tangled with other lanes 27. This reduces the possibility of incompatibility and prevents situations in which treatment is interrupted due to problems.

[0110] Furthermore, by using the cable carrier 55, it is not necessary to divide the spool 23 into lanes 27. Alternatively, it is possible to reduce the number of lanes 27. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the material costs and processing costs for forming the lanes 27.

[0111] Next, a modification will be described. As shown in modification 4 in Fig. 16, a portion of the cable carrier 55 passes through the through hole 31 and is connected to the outer and inner peripheral surfaces of the spool 23. Note that other members are not shown in Fig. 16 to facilitate understanding.

[0112] For example, a portion of the cable carrier 55 is disposed inside the spool 23. The through-hole 31 is formed at a position where the direction (circumferential direction) of the cable carrier 55 leading out from inside the spool 23 does not change due to the rotation of the spool 23.

[0113] Furthermore, at least a portion of the cable carrier 55 is bent. In particular, the cable carrier 55 is bent at the portion of the through hole 31. The radii of curvature of the bent portions K3 and K4 are larger than the largest minimum radius of curvature allowable for each of the cables 22A included in the cable group 22. This prevents a load from being applied to the cable 22A due to bending of the cable carrier 55. For example, the angle at which the cable carrier 55 is bent between the parts that make up the cable carrier 55 is limited, and the radius of curvature is designed not to be smaller than the minimum radius of curvature of the cable 22A to be fixed.

[0114] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 17 to 19. Note that the same components as those shown in the above-described embodiments will be assigned the same reference numerals and redundant description will be omitted.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 17, a cable protection device 50 of the third embodiment includes a through-hole 31 in a spool 23 and at least one cable carrier 55.

[0116] The cable group 22 passes through the through hole 31 in the radial direction of the spool 23. An end of the cable carrier 55 is connected to the through hole 31 on the outer peripheral surface of the spool 23. The cable carrier 55 hangs down vertically from the through hole 31 when the spool 23 rotates and the through hole 31 is at its lowest position. This allows workers to easily access the entire range of the cable group 22 and the cable carrier 55 during maintenance, improving maintainability. Furthermore, safety and work efficiency are improved.

[0117] In addition, the cable carrier 55 has a mechanism that allows it to be wound in either one or the other direction around the spool 23, with the state in which the through hole 31 is at the lowest position of the spool 23 as the reference (rotation angle is zero degrees).

[0118] 18 and 19, a portion of the outer peripheral surface of spool 23 adjacent to through hole 31 forms guide surface 59 that curves to bulge in the radial direction of spool 23. In this way, when cable carrier 55 is wound onto spool 23, it is possible to prevent load from being applied to cable group 22 (cables 22A) and cable 22B that are bent at the through hole 31.

[0119] The guide surface 59 is formed by attaching a separate member to a part of the outer circumferential surface of the spool 23. Note that the outer circumferential surface of the spool 23 itself may be formed as the guide surface 59.

[0120] The radius of curvature of guide surface 59 is larger than the largest minimum radius of curvature allowable for each cable 22A included in cable group 22. This prevents guide surface 59 from applying a load to cable 22A.

[0121] The provision of guide surface 59 prevents cable 22A from falling below its minimum radius of curvature when spool 23 rotates. Even near zero degrees, the change in the radius of curvature of cable 22A does not exceed the change in the radius of curvature when drooping.

[0122] It is considered that the connection point of the cable carrier 55 to the spool 23 of the guide device 56 moves horizontally relative to the floor surface as the spool 23 rotates. Therefore, the guide device 56 may be of a movable type that moves horizontally.

[0123] In the third embodiment, the cable protection device 50 includes a clamping component 60 that is provided in the through hole 31 and circumferentially clamps the group of cables 22 that pass through the through hole 31 in the radial direction of the spool 23. In this way, regardless of whether the spool 23 rotates in one direction or the other, the load applied from the clamping component 60 to the multiple bundled cables 22A is the same, thereby reducing wear on these cables 22A.

[0124] (Fourth embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 20 and 21. Note that the same components as those shown in the above-described embodiments will be assigned the same reference numerals and redundant description will be omitted.

[0125] 20 and 21, in the cable protection device 50 of the fourth embodiment, a cable group 22 (cables 22A) covered with an outer shell 51, a cable 22B not covered with the outer shell 51, and a cable carrier 55 are arranged in parallel. The cable group 22 can be protected using both the outer shell 51 and the cable carrier 55.

[0126] In the fourth embodiment, the plurality of cable groups 22 are protected in a manner appropriate for each type of cable. For example, the plurality of cable groups 22 may be protected by the outer shell 51 or the cable carrier 55.

[0127] For example, cable group 22 (cable 22A) which has a small diameter and can be bundled and wrapped in outer shell 51 is protected by outer shell 51. Furthermore, thick cables 22B and 22C such as power supply cables or flexible hoses are protected by cable carrier 55. In this way, cable group 22 (cable 22A) and cables 22B and 22C in particle beam therapy system 1 can all be protected.

[0128] Next, modifications will be described. As shown in Modification 5 of Fig. 22, a plurality of cable groups 22 may be housed in one lane 27. Also, a plurality of cables 22B may be housed in one lane 27. Furthermore, a plurality of cable carriers 55 may be housed in one lane 27.

[0129] By winding a plurality of cable groups 22 and a plurality of cable carriers 55 in an overlapping manner, a greater number of cables 22A can be arranged on the spool 23 at a high density.

[0130] Although the present invention has been described above based on the first to fourth embodiments and their modifications, other aspects are also possible. For example, the configuration applied in any of the embodiments and modifications may be applied to other embodiments and modifications, or the configurations applied in each embodiment and each modification may be combined.

[0131] Although the above-described embodiment exemplifies a facility that performs heavy ion cancer therapy, it is also applicable to other facilities. For example, the above-described embodiment may be applied to a facility that performs proton cancer therapy.

[0132] Although the above-described embodiment illustrates a human patient 8 as an example of a treatment target, other embodiments are also possible. For example, animals such as dogs and cats may also be treated. The particle beam therapy system 1 may be used when administering radiation therapy to these animals.

[0133] The wire arrangement device 40 may include a wire arrangement unit having a plurality of rotatable cylindrical rotors that separate the plurality of cable groups 22 and whose outer circumferential surfaces are in contact with the cable groups 22. This can suppress abrasion of the cable groups 22 while suppressing disorderly winding of the cable groups 22.

[0134] Conventionally, small-diameter cables 22A such as signal lines and power lines have been at risk of being damaged by being exposed from the lane 27 or getting caught between multiple other cables 22A due to repeated winding and unwinding caused by the rotation of the spool 23. However, in the above-described embodiment, multiple cables 22A are covered with the outer shell 51, thereby preventing exposure and damage due to movement of the cables 22A.

[0135] The particle beam therapy system 1 requires a large number of cables 22A, which vary in thickness and rigidity. Furthermore, creating a protection mechanism applicable to each cable 22A is difficult in terms of both cost and process. By contrast, the use of the outer shell 51 of the above-described embodiment makes it possible to accommodate any cable 22A, which is effective in terms of cost and process. Furthermore, replacement is easy, which is effective in terms of maintenance.

[0136] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, there is provided an outer shell 51 that encloses at least a portion of the cable group 22 in the longitudinal direction, has flexibility, and at least a portion of which slides in the longitudinal direction of the cable group 22. In this way, it is possible to prevent damage or breakage due to protrusion or tangling of the multiple cables 22A that are being wound on or unwound from the spool 23 of the rotating gantry 5.

[0137] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are intended to be included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention described in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0138] 1...particle beam therapy system, 2...beam generator, 3...circular accelerator, 4...beam transport line, 5...rotating gantry, 6...vacuum duct, 7...charged particle beam, 8...patient, 9...horizontal axis, 10...body, 11...end ring, 12...rotation drive unit, 13...irradiation nozzle, 14...transport device, 15...superconducting electromagnet, 16...treatment space, 17...treatment table, 18...treatment room, 19...floor, 20...counterweight, 21...weight pit, 22...cable group, 22A, 22B, 22C...cable, 23...spool, 24...cable pit, 25...flange, 26...flange, 27...lane, 28...periphery, 29...chamfered portion, 30...fixing device, 31...through hole, 40...wire arrangement device, 41...wire arrangement wire, 42...wire arrangement plate, 43...wire stand, 44...connecting member, 45...curved edge, 46...plate stand, 50...cable protection device, 51...outer shell, 52...fastening member, 53...holding member, 54...clamping member, 55...cable carrier, 56...guiding device, 57...guiding stand, 58...roller, 59...guide surface, 60...clamping part, D1...inner diameter, D2...outer diameter, E1...upper end portion, E2...lower end portion, G1...first group, G2...second group, K1, K2, K3, K4...bent portion, P...lowest position.

Claims

1. a rotating gantry that rotates around a horizontal axis facing horizontally; at least one cable group including a plurality of cables, one end of which is connected to the rotating gantry and the other end of which is connected to a stationary device; a spool provided on the rotating gantry for winding or unwinding the cable group; a cable arranging device that is provided in a stationary state below the spool and that arranges the cables hanging down from the spool; an outer shell that encloses at least a portion of the cable group in the longitudinal direction, has flexibility, and at least a portion of which slides in the longitudinal direction of the cable group; Equipped with Cable protection device.

2. the range in the longitudinal direction of the cable group where the outer shell is provided is at least one of a range passing through the cable arranging device and a range where the lower end of the range is located higher than the lowest portion of the hanging cable group; 2. The cable protection device of claim 1.

3. Silicon oil is applied to the area of ​​the cable group in the longitudinal direction where the outer shell is provided. The cable protection device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. a fastening member for fastening the spool-side end of the outer shell to the cable group; The cable protection device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. a through hole that passes through the spool and through which the cable group passes from the outside to the inside of the spool; a clamp member provided in the through hole and fixed to the outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface of the spool to clamp the group of cables; Equipped with The cable protection device according to claim 1 or 2.

6. At least a portion of the clamp member is bent, and the radius of curvature of the bent portion is larger than the largest of the minimum radius of curvature allowable for each cable included in the cable group.

6. The cable protection device of claim 5.

7. a cable carrier for storing the cable group; The cable protection device according to claim 1 or 2.

8. a cable carrier that houses the group of cables; a through hole that passes through the spool and through which the cable group passes from the outside to the inside of the spool; Equipped with The cable carrier has a length dimension that allows it to be placed on a floor surface when unwound from the spool. The cable protection device according to claim 1 or 2.

9. a cable carrier that houses the group of cables; a through hole that passes through the spool and through which the cable group passes from the outside to the inside of the spool; Equipped with The cable group passes through the through hole in a radial direction of the spool, an end of the cable carrier is connected to the through hole on the outer circumferential surface of the spool; the cable carrier hangs down vertically from the through hole when the spool rotates and the through hole is at the lowest position of the spool; The cable protection device according to claim 1 or 2.

10. A portion of the outer peripheral surface of the spool adjacent to the through hole forms a guide surface that is curved so as to bulge in the radial direction of the spool.

10. The cable protection device of claim 9.

11. the radius of curvature of the guide surface is larger than the largest of the minimum radius of curvature allowable for each cable included in the cable group; 11. The cable protection device of claim 10.

12. a clamping component provided in the through hole for circumferentially clamping the group of cables passing through the through hole in the radial direction of the spool; 10. The cable protection device of claim 9.

13. The cable carrier has a mechanism that can be wound in either one or the other circumferential direction of the spool, based on a state in which the through hole is at the lowest position of the spool.

10. The cable protection device of claim 9.

14. a rotating gantry that rotates around a horizontal axis facing horizontally; at least one cable group including a plurality of cables, one end of which is connected to the rotating gantry and the other end of which is connected to a stationary device; a spool provided on the rotating gantry for winding or unwinding the cable group; a cable arranging device that is provided in a stationary state below the spool and that arranges the cables hanging down from the spool; a flexible outer shell that encloses at least a portion of the length of the cable group; This is a method using At least a portion of the outer shell slides in the longitudinal direction of the cable group. Cable protection methods.

15. The cable protection device according to claim 1 or 2; a beam generator for generating a charged particle beam; an accelerator for accelerating the charged particle beam; a transport device supported by the rotating gantry and configured to transport the charged particle beam; an irradiation nozzle supported by the rotating gantry and configured to irradiate the charged particle beam, which is guided by the transport device in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal axis, toward a patient; a treatment table that moves and positions the patient at an irradiation position of the charged particle beam; Equipped with Particle therapy system.

Images