Rotating gantry monitoring device, rotating gantry monitoring method, and particle beam therapy system

Abstract

To provide a monitoring technology for a rotary gantry capable of monitoring a line arrangement state of a cable.SOLUTION: A monitoring device 50 of a rotary gantry 5 includes: a rotary gantry 5 that rotates around a horizontal axis 9 facing a horizontal direction and supporting an irradiation nozzle 13 for radiating a particle beam 7 and a transportation part 14 for transporting the particle beam 7 to the irradiation nozzle 13; a plurality of cables 22, one end of which is connected to the rotary gantry 5 and the other end of which is connected to a resting device 30; a spool 23 provided in the rotary gantry 5 for executing winding or unwinding of the cables 22; and a monitoring part 51 for monitoring the state of the cables 22 in the spool 23.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention relate to techniques for monitoring a rotating gantry. [Background technology]

[0002] In particle therapy systems, the use of a rotating gantry treatment table reduces the burden on patients compared to a fixed treatment table because the patient can be irradiated with particle beams while remaining stationary. However, the rotating gantry incorporates many pieces of equipment that rotate along with the rotating gantry. This requires the connection of many cables required for power, control, and communication between the rotating gantry and stationary external equipment. With each rotation of the rotating gantry, cables are wound onto or unwound from spools.

[0003] However, when many cables are installed, they may become untidy and unorganized. When this happens, external forces may be applied to the cables, causing damage or breakage, which may result in interruptions to treatment or damage to the equipment. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-147451 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-330037 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-158971 [Patent Document 4] 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]

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a monitoring technique for a rotating gantry that can monitor the state of cable arrangement. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A monitoring device for a rotating gantry according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a rotating gantry that supports an irradiation nozzle that irradiates a particle beam and a transport unit that transports the particle beam to the irradiation nozzle and rotates around a horizontal axis facing horizontally, a plurality of cables each having one end connected to the rotating gantry and the other end connected to a stationary device, a spool provided on the rotating gantry that winds or unwinds the cable, and a monitoring unit that monitors the state of the cable on the spool. The spool includes a plurality of disk-shaped flange rings and a plurality of recessed lanes that hold the cable between the flange rings. The monitoring unit is a laser sensor that irradiates a laser along the peripheral edge of the flange ring in the axial direction of the rotating gantry and detects the cable protruding from the flange ring. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] Embodiments of the present invention provide a rotating gantry monitoring technique that can monitor the status of cable laying. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [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. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a side view showing the spool of the rotating gantry. [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. [Figure 6] FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the spool of the rotating gantry. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the system configuration of a monitoring device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 10]10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for monitoring a rotating gantry. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the rotating gantry of the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a flange ring provided with a limit switch. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the system configuration of a monitoring device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a rear view of the rotating gantry of the third embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the system configuration of a monitoring device according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] (First embodiment) Hereinafter, embodiments of a particle beam therapy system and a rotating gantry will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. First, a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10. In the following description, the left side of the pages of FIGS. 2, 3, and 6 to 8 will be referred to as the front side (front side) of the rotating gantry, and the right side of the pages will be referred to as the back side (rear side) of the rotating gantry. In the drawings, in a Cartesian coordinate system, 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. 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.

[0010] 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a particle therapy system of this embodiment. In this particle therapy system 1, a particle beam such as carbon ions is irradiated onto lesion tissue (cancer) of a patient as a subject to perform treatment.

[0011] 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.

[0012] Compared to conventional cancer treatments using X-rays, gamma rays, or proton beams, cancer treatments using heavy ion beams have a higher ability to kill cancer lesions, and the radiation dose is low on the surface of the patient's body, with the peak radiation dose at the cancer lesion. This means that the number of irradiations and side effects can be reduced, and the treatment period can be shortened.

[0013] 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.

[0014] The beam generator 2 has an ion source of carbon ions, which are charged particles, and generates a particle beam 7 (Fig. 2) using these carbon ions. The circular accelerator 3 is ring-shaped in a plan view and accelerates the particle beam 7 generated by the beam generator 2. The beam transport line 4 transports the 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 particle beam 7 is placed on the rotating gantry 5.

[0015] In this particle beam therapy system 1, first, a 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 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 particle beam 7 is guided to a rotating gantry 5 via a beam transport line 4.

[0016] 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 particle beam 7 travels through the interior of 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 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 particle beam 7 to pass through.

[0017] As shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 2, the rotating gantry 5 is a large cylindrical device. The rotating gantry 5 is installed so that its cylindrical axis 9 faces horizontally. The rotating gantry 5 can rotate around this horizontal axis 9.

[0018] 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.

[0019] 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.

[0020] 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.

[0021] The rotating gantry 5 is also provided with an irradiation nozzle 13 that irradiates the particle beam 7 toward the patient 8, and a transport unit 14 that transports the particle beam 7 to the irradiation nozzle 13. In other words, the irradiation nozzle 13 and the transport unit 14 are supported by the rotating gantry 5.

[0022] Furthermore, the transport section 14 is equipped with superconducting electromagnets 15 that generate magnetic fields that form a path for transporting the particle beam 7. These superconducting electromagnets 15 are, for example, bending electromagnets that change the traveling direction of the particle beam 7 along the vacuum duct 6, or quadrupole electromagnets that control the convergence and divergence of the particle beam 7.

[0023] The irradiation nozzle 13 is provided at the tip of the vacuum duct 6 and irradiates the particle beam 7 guided by the transport unit 14 toward the patient 8. The irradiation nozzle 13 is fixed to the inner peripheral surface of the rotating gantry 5. The particle beam 7 is irradiated from the irradiation nozzle 13 in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal axis 9.

[0024] 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 particle beam 7 and aligned. Therefore, the particle beam 7 can be irradiated to an appropriate area of ​​the patient 8, such as the lesion tissue.

[0025] The patient 8 is positioned at 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 185 degrees clockwise (right) or counterclockwise (left) in a rear view around the patient 8 (horizontal axis 9). The 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 particle beam 7 guided by the beam transport line 4 onto the patient 8. Therefore, the 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.

[0026] As the particle beam 7 passes through the body of the patient 8, it loses kinetic energy and slows down, and encounters 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 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 diseased tissue (affected area) of the patient 8, the particle beam therapy system 1 can destroy only the diseased tissue while minimizing damage to normal tissue.

[0027] 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 are rotated, the position of the treatment table 17 does not change.

[0028] 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 section 14 is provided. This counterweight 20 is provided to balance the rotating gantry 5 and the transport section 14 at the center. In other words, the weight of the counterweight 20 is set to correspond to the weight of the transport section 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.

[0029] Furthermore, a plurality of cables 22 are led from the outside to the rotating gantry 5. These cables 22 are, for example, power supply cables, signal lines, flexible hoses for coolant, etc., and are provided to supply power and transmit control signals to predetermined devices provided on the rotating gantry 5. These cables 22 include flexible hoses that supply coolant to the superconducting electromagnets 15 of the transportation unit 14.

[0030] A spool 23 is provided at the rear of the rotating gantry 5 to wind or unwind the cable 22 as the rotating gantry 5 rotates. The axis of the spool 23 coincides with the horizontal axis 9 of the rotating gantry 5.

[0031] 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 cable 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.

[0032] As shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 3, spool 23 is provided so as to protrude rearward from the rear of rotating gantry 5. Spool 23 is a cylindrical portion formed to have a diameter smaller than the diameter of the main body of rotating gantry 5. Spool 23 includes one disk-shaped flange 25, multiple disk-shaped flange rings 26, and multiple recessed lanes 27 (Figure 7) that hold cables 22.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 7, each lane 27 accommodates a plurality of cables 22. For example, two to three cables 22 are accommodated in one lane 27. Note that four or more cables 22 may be accommodated in one lane 27.

[0035] When the cables 22 are wound around the spool 23 in the circumferential direction, the cables 22 are arranged side by side in the axial direction (Z direction) of the spool 23 and in the radial directions (X direction and Y direction) of the spool 23 in accordance with the arrangement of the flange ring 26 and the lanes 27. When the cables 22 hang down from the spool 23, the cables 22 are arranged side by side in the axial direction (Z direction) of the spool 23 and in the horizontal direction (X direction) (FIG. 6).

[0036] The width of each lane 27 may differ depending on the number or thickness of the cables 22 accommodated therein. Also, a single lane 27 may accommodate a plurality of cables 22 of different types or thicknesses.

[0037] 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 22 is housed in the lane 27, the cable 22 is less likely to get caught on the flange ring 26, and the friction or tension on the cable 22 caused by the cable getting caught on the flange ring 26 can be reduced, making it possible to suppress irregular winding.

[0038] 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 22 can be smoothly accommodated in the lane 27.

[0039] Note that even when the chamfered portion 29 is provided, a portion 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 22 gets caught on the flange ring 26, it is possible to prevent the cable 22 from being cut or worn.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 4, one end of each cable 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. The multiple cables 22 are composed of, for example, power lines for supplying power, signal lines for transmitting control signals, and flexible hoses for supplying coolant. The fixing device 30 is composed of, for example, a power supply, a terminal block, and a pump for supplying coolant. Note that while FIG. 4 is a rear view of the rotating gantry 5, the main body, rotation drive unit 12, transport unit 14, and the like of the rotating gantry 5 are not shown to facilitate understanding.

[0041] One end of each cable 22 is introduced into the rotating gantry 5 through a through-hole 31 formed in the spool 23. The cable 22 is then connected to equipment such as a superconducting electromagnet 15 (FIG. 2) provided on the rotating gantry 5. One end of each cable 22 is fixed to the through-hole 31. Each cable 22 is wound circumferentially around the outer periphery of the spool 23 from the fixed through-hole 31.

[0042] In this embodiment, a flexible hose will be described as an example of the cable 22. The flexible hose is hollow (FIG. 7) and is provided to supply a coolant such as liquid helium or liquid nitrogen to the superconducting electromagnet 15 (FIG. 2). This flexible hose is a pressure-resistant hose with braided metal wires to increase its pressure resistance, and can supply the coolant at a predetermined pressure.

[0043] 3 and 4, the multiple cables 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 22, or according to the device to which the cable 22 is connected. Accordingly, multiple flange rings 26 around which the multiple cables 22 of the first group G1 are wound, and multiple flange rings 26 around which the multiple cables 22 of the second group G2 are wound are provided.

[0044] The cables 22 of the first group G1 and the cables 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 cables 22 of the first group G1 are wound around the spool 23, and the cables 22 of the second group G2 are unwound from the spool 23. On the other hand, when the rotating gantry 5 rotates clockwise, the cables 22 of the first group G1 are unwound from the spool 23, and the cables 22 of the second group G2 are wound around the spool 23.

[0045] 4, for ease of understanding, only the cables 22 of the first group G1 are shown, and the cables 22 of the second group G2 are not shown. In an actual rear view, the cables 22 of the first group G1 and the cables 22 of the second group G2 hanging down from the spool 23 appear to intersect at the cable pit 24.

[0046] The particle beam therapy system 1 of this embodiment is provided with a wire arrangement device 40 for the rotating gantry 5. This wire arrangement device 40 includes a plurality of wire arrangement wires 41 and a plurality of wire arrangement plates 42. Here, the cables 22 pass between the wire arrangement wires 41 and between the wire arrangement plates 42. This wire arrangement device 40 is provided to arrange the plurality of cables 22 and to suppress abrasion of the cables 22 while suppressing a disordered winding state of the cables 22.

[0047] The arranging wires 41 and the arranging plates 42 are provided for arranging the cables 22 of the first group G1 and for arranging the cables 22 of the second group G2. Note that, to facilitate understanding, FIG. 4 illustrates only the arranging wires 41 and the arranging plates 42 of the first group G1, and does not illustrate the arranging wires 41 and the arranging plates 42 of the second group G2. The arranging wires 41 and the arranging plates 42 of 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 arranging wires 41 of the first group G1 and the second group G2 appear to be strung in an X-shaped cross pattern.

[0048] The 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 cables 22 hanging down from the spool 23. This arrangement makes it possible to prevent the cables 22 from being wound in a disorderly state and to suppress wear on the cables 22. For example, because the wire arranging wires 41 are flexible, wear on the cables 22 can be suppressed.

[0049] 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 cables 22 arranged in the axial direction.

[0050] For example, as shown in FIG. 6 , multiple arranging wires 41 are stretched so as to be parallel to one another. Cables 22 are arranged between each of the arranging wires 41. The arrangement of each of the arranging wires 41 is set according to the arrangement of the flange rings 26. In other words, the bundles of cables 22 arranged between the arranging wires 41 correspond to the bundles of cables 22 housed in the lanes 27. When winding or unwinding the cables 22, the cables 22 are separated along the arranging wires 41. Here, contact between the cables 22 is suppressed, friction or tension on the cables 22 caused by the contact is reduced, and shaking of the cables 22 and irregular winding are suppressed.

[0051] 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.

[0052] The arranging wire 41 is stretched in a state inclined with respect to the horizontal direction. In this way, the arranging wire 41 comes into contact with the cables 22 hanging down vertically at an angle, thereby reducing the resistance when the arranging wire 41 rubs against the cables 22. This reduces wear or irregular winding of the cables 22.

[0053] Furthermore, when spool 23 is divided into a semicircle on the side where cable 22 hangs down and an opposite semicircle, wire arranging 41 is inclined so that the side where cable 22 hangs down is higher and the other side is lower. In this way, the angle at which cable 22 contacts wire arranging 41 is small, and cable 22 comes into gentle contact with wire arranging 41, reducing the resistance when wire arranging 41 rubs against cable 22.

[0054] 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 22 in the portion where the cable 22 is no longer held by the flange ring 26. Therefore, friction or tension greater than expected is not applied to the cable 22, and irregular winding can be suppressed.

[0055] The multiple wire arranging plates 42 are provided in parallel and stationary in positions close to the spool 23. These wire arranging plates 42 are provided below the spool 23 to separate the multiple cables 22 lined up in the axial direction (Z direction). In this way, the wire arranging plates 42 separate the cables 22 individually in the axial direction, thereby preventing the cables 22 from being wound in a disorderly manner.

[0056] 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 22 arranged in the axial direction.

[0057] For example, as shown in FIG. 6 , multiple wire arranging plates 42 are arranged parallel to one another. Cables 22 are arranged between the respective wire arranging plates 42. The arrangement of the respective wire arranging plates 42 is set according to the arrangement of the flange rings 26. In other words, the bundle of cables 22 arranged between the wire arranging plates 42 corresponds to the bundle of cables 22 housed in the lane 27. When winding or unwinding the cables 22, the cables 22 are separated along the wire arranging plates 42. This prevents the cables 22 from coming into unintended contact with one another, and prevents the cables 22 from being wound in a disorderly manner.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 4, in this embodiment, a specific range R in which the cable 22 hangs down from the spool 23 is set in advance. For example, the cable 22 hangs down from the end of the spool 23 in the X direction. A predetermined range including this portion is set as the specific range R. This specific range R is a range in which the cable 22 hangs down almost vertically due to its own weight. A plurality of wire arrangement plates 42 are arranged in this specific range R.

[0059] 5 and 6, each of the wire arranging plates 42 is a plate-like member that is crescent-shaped in rear view. The wire arranging plates 42 are spaced apart and connected by connecting members 44. The connecting members 44 are, for example, rod-shaped members extending in the axial direction (Z direction) and connect the wire arranging plates 42 at one end and the other end of a specific range R (FIG. 4) in the axial direction (Z direction). In this way, the connecting members 44 restrict the horizontal movement range of the cable 22 (X direction), so that the cable 22 hanging down from the spool 23 is contained within the specific range R. Therefore, even if the cable 22 sways between one end and the other end of the specific range R, irregular winding does not occur.

[0060] Each of the 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 arranging wire 41. In this way, the cables 22 are guided by the rigid arranging plates 42 at positions where the cables 22 enter and exit the lanes 27 (FIG. 7) between the flange rings 26. This prevents unintended contact between the cables 22, and also prevents the cables 22 from swaying, making it possible to prevent irregular winding.

[0061] 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. Then, a wire arrangement plate 42 is fixed to the connecting members 44.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, the wire arranging plates 42 are also provided in the specific range R (FIG. 4) where the wire arranging plates 42 are provided. That is, in a plan view, the wire arranging plates 42 and the wire arranging wires 41 are alternately arranged in the axial direction (Z direction). For example, one cable 22 is arranged between one wire arranging plate 42 and one wire arranging wire 41. The multiple cables 22 lined up in the axial direction are separated by the wire arranging plates 42 and the wire arranging wires 41.

[0063] In this embodiment, the wiring arranging plate 42 is provided so as to overlap the area where the wiring arranging wire 41 is provided, but 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 cables 22 lined up in the axial direction may be separated by the wiring arranging plate 42, and other cables 22 may be separated by the wiring arranging wire 41.

[0064] In this embodiment, the wire arranging plate 42 is provided at a height position overlapping the wire arranging plate 41, but 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.

[0065] 9, the particle beam therapy system 1 of this embodiment is provided with a monitoring device 50 for the rotating gantry 5. This monitoring device 50 is provided to monitor the state of the cable 22 being arranged.

[0066] The monitoring device 50 for the rotating gantry 5 of this embodiment includes a computer having hardware resources such as a processor and memory, and in which software-based information processing is realized using the hardware resources by the CPU executing various programs. Furthermore, the monitoring method of this embodiment is realized by having the computer execute various programs.

[0067] The system configuration of the monitoring device 50 for the rotating gantry 5 will be described with reference to the block diagram shown in Fig. 9. The monitoring device 50 of the first embodiment includes a laser sensor 51, a relay 52, an interlock unit 53, and a main control unit 54. The laser sensor 51 constitutes the monitoring unit of the first embodiment that monitors the state of the cable 22 on the spool 23.

[0068] The main controller 54 is a computer that performs overall control of the rotating gantry 5 and the particle beam therapy system 1. For example, the main controller 54 controls the rotation of the rotating gantry 5 and the irradiation of the particle beam 7 in the particle beam therapy system 1.

[0069] The detection signal of the laser sensor 51 is input to an interlock unit 53 via a relay 52. ​​If the state of the cable 22 on the spool 23 is abnormal, the interlock unit 53 inputs a stop signal to a main control unit 54, which stops the operation of the rotating gantry 5 and the particle beam therapy system 1.

[0070] That is, when an abnormality in cable 22 is detected based on monitoring by laser sensor 51 (monitoring unit), interlock unit 53 stops driving of rotating gantry 5. In this way, driving of rotating gantry 5 can be automatically stopped when an abnormality occurs such as when cable 22 becomes disorderly wound.

[0071] For example, in the particle beam therapy system 1, the particle beam 7 can be irradiated only when the irradiation permission flag is set. The state in which the interlock is released is the state in which the irradiation permission flag is set. The state in which the interlock is activated is the state in which the irradiation permission flag is not set. When a stop signal is input from the interlock unit 53 to the main control unit 54, the interlock is activated, the irradiation permission flag is cleared, and the state switches to the state in which the irradiation permission flag is not set. Then, the particle beam 7 cannot be irradiated.

[0072] 4, the laser sensor 51 is fixed to the plate stand 46 that supports the wire alignment plate 42. In other words, the laser sensor 51 is not affected by the rotation of the rotating gantry 5 and the spool 23, and is provided in a stationary state.

[0073] For example, two laser sensors 51 are provided to detect the disorderly winding state of the cables 22 in the first group G1. Although not shown in FIG. 4, two more laser sensors 51 are provided to detect the disorderly winding state of the cables 22 in the second group G2. In other words, the monitoring device 50 of the first embodiment includes a total of four laser sensors 51. Five or more laser sensors 51 may be provided lined up along the circumferential direction of the spool 23.

[0074] Two laser sensors 51 (monitoring units) for detecting the disorderly winding state of the cables 22 of the first group G1 are arranged corresponding to one end (left end) and the other end (right end) of the specific range R in the X direction. These laser sensors 51 are provided at positions corresponding to the wire arrangement plate 42 in the circumferential direction of the spool 23. In this way, if the cables 22 are disorderly wound around the wire arrangement plate 42, it is possible to detect the protrusion of the cables 22 at an early stage of the disorderly winding.

[0075] 8, laser sensor 51 is disposed in a stationary position near the rear of rotating gantry 5, that is, on the front end side of spool 23. Laser sensor 51 emits laser 55 rearward. Disorderly winding of cable 22 often occurs on the rear end side (flange 25 side) of spool 23, and in such cases, this prevents cable 22 protruding from spool 23 from interfering with laser sensor 51.

[0076] The laser sensor 51 is a reflective laser sensor 51. That is, one laser sensor 51 includes an emitting unit that emits a laser 55 and a detecting unit (light receiving unit) that detects the laser 55 reflected from a predetermined object. Based on this reflected laser 55, the distance from the laser sensor 51 to the object can be detected. Based on this detected distance, it can be determined whether irregular winding is occurring on the spool 23.

[0077] If there is no abnormality in the spool 23, the laser 55 emitted from the laser sensor 51 is reflected by the flange 25 and detected by the laser sensor 51. The detection distance of the laser sensor 51 may be set in advance to be equal to or less than the distance from the laser sensor 51 to the flange 25. In this case, taking into consideration the possibility of minute irregularities on the surface of the flange 25, the detection distance is set to be slightly shorter than the distance from the laser sensor 51 to the flange 25.

[0078] On the other hand, if irregular winding occurs on the spool 23 and the cable 22 protrudes from the flange ring 26, the laser 55 emitted from the laser sensor 51 is reflected by the cable 22 and detected by the laser sensor 51. In other words, the laser sensor 51 detects the cable 22 protruding from the flange ring 26 based on the reflection of the laser 55 emitted from the cable 22. In this way, it is sufficient to provide the laser sensor 51 at only one end of the spool 23. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the cable 22 protruding from the spool 23 due to irregular winding from colliding with the laser sensor 51.

[0079] The laser sensor 51 emits a laser 55 in the axial direction (Z direction) along the periphery of the flange ring 26 to detect the cables 22 protruding from the flange ring 26. In this way, even if multiple cables 22 are provided, the protruding state of each cable 22 can be detected by at least one laser sensor 51, so the number of installed laser sensors 51 can be reduced.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 9 , the laser sensor 51 is connected to the interlock unit 53 via the relay 52. ​​The operating time of the relay 52 is set to a predetermined period. For example, the operating time of the relay 52 is set to a range of 20 to 200 milliseconds. If the detection time of the laser sensor 51 is equal to or longer than the operating time of the relay 52, the relay 52 operates, and the detection signal of the laser sensor 51 is input to the interlock unit 53. On the other hand, if the detection time of the laser sensor 51 is shorter than the operating time of the relay 52, the relay 52 is not operated, and the detection signal of the laser sensor 51 is not input to the interlock unit 53. In this way, for example, if the cable 22 passes through the irradiation range of the laser 55 quickly, the interlock does not activate. In other words, if the cable 22 is operating normally, the interlock does not malfunction.

[0081] Next, a method for monitoring the rotating gantry 5 (monitoring process) executed by the monitoring device 50 of the rotating gantry 5 will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 10. The aforementioned drawings will be referred to as appropriate. This process is executed continuously while the rotating gantry 5 and the particle beam therapy system 1 are in operation. The monitoring method is executed by the monitoring device 50 by repeating this process.

[0082] First, in step S1, the laser sensor 51 monitors the state of the cable 22 on the spool 23. Under normal circumstances, the rotating gantry 5 rotates, and as the spool 23 rotates, the spool 23 winds or unwinds the multiple cables 22. The main control unit 54 then determines whether a stop signal has been input from the interlock unit 53. In other words, it determines whether an abnormality has been detected in the cable 22. Here, if there is no abnormality in the cable 22 (NO in step S1), the process ends. On the other hand, if there is an abnormality in the cable 22 (YES in step S1), the process proceeds to step S2.

[0083] In step S2, the main controller 54 activates an interlock, whereby irradiation of the particle beam 7 by the particle beam therapy system 1 is stopped.

[0084] In the next step S3, the main control unit 54 stops the rotating gantry 5. That is, the interlock unit 53 of the first embodiment stops the driving of the rotating gantry 5 via the main control unit 54 when an abnormality in the cable 22 is detected based on monitoring by the laser sensor 51 (monitoring unit).

[0085] In the next step S4, the main control unit 54 issues an alarm, which allows the administrator to recognize the occurrence of an abnormality.

[0086] In the next step S5, the main control unit 54 determines whether or not an abnormality exclusion operation has been received. If an abnormality exclusion operation has not been received (NO in step S5), the process returns to step S4. On the other hand, if an abnormality exclusion operation has been received (YES in step S5), the process proceeds to step S6. For example, a manager or maintenance worker performs an operation to press a predetermined switch to stop the alarm (an abnormality exclusion operation). This operation stops the alarm and allows the rotating gantry 5 to be rotated for maintenance.

[0087] In step S6, the main control unit 54 executes a standby process to wait until the maintenance work, which is the work to eliminate abnormalities, is completed. Here, the worker rotates the rotating gantry 5 to perform work such as eliminating irregular winding of the cable 22.

[0088] In the next step S7, the main control unit 54 determines whether or not a reset operation has been received. For example, when a manager or maintenance worker completes maintenance work, the manager or maintenance worker presses the reset switch (reset operation). If the reset operation has not been received (NO in step S7), the process returns to step S6. On the other hand, if the reset operation has been received (YES in step S7), the process proceeds to step S8.

[0089] In step S8, the main control unit 54 determines whether or not a stop signal has been input from the interlock unit 53. That is, it determines whether or not an abnormality has been detected in the cable 22. If an abnormality has been detected in the cable 22 (YES in step S8), the process returns to step S3. On the other hand, if no abnormality has been detected in the cable 22 (NO in step S8), the process proceeds to step S9.

[0090] In step S9, the main controller 54 releases the interlock, so that irradiation of the particle beam 7 by the particle beam therapy system 1 can be resumed.

[0091] The process then ends. Note that the above steps are at least a part of the process included in the monitoring method, and other steps may be included in the monitoring method.

[0092] In the first embodiment, the laser sensor 51 can monitor the state of the arrangement of the cable 22. For example, if a hollow flexible hose is used as the cable 22 to supply coolant, if this flexible hose becomes irregularly wound and twisted, the supply of coolant to the superconducting electromagnet 15 will be interrupted. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the irregularly wound state can be detected by the monitoring device 50 before the supply of coolant is interrupted, and measures can be taken to address the situation.

[0093] In the first embodiment, the main control unit 54 is a part of the configuration of the monitoring device 50, but other configurations are also possible. For example, the main control unit 54 does not have to be included in the monitoring device 50. In that case, the interlock unit 53 performs various determinations or interlock control.

[0094] In the first embodiment, a reflective laser sensor 51 in which an irradiation unit and a detection unit (light receiving unit) are integrated is used, but other configurations are also possible. For example, a transmissive laser sensor in which an irradiation unit and a detection unit are separate may be used.

[0095] In the first embodiment, the wire arranging device 40 is configured to include both the wire arranging wire 41 and the wire arranging plate 42, but 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. That is, 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.

[0096] The wire arranging wire 41 or the wire arranging plate 42 may be provided only in the portion (range) of the cable 22 that protrudes from the spool 23. The wire arranging device 40 may also be used to arrange the cables 22 according to their diameter or according to their type. Flexible hoses and power lines have different bending properties, so they are arranged according to their type.

[0097] In addition, since installing the wiring arranging wire 41 is easier than installing the wiring arranging plate 42, it is possible to shorten the installation period and reduce costs. In addition, one end of the wiring arranging wire 41 may be fixed to the bottom of the cable pit 24.

[0098] In the particle beam therapy system 1, the rotating gantry 5 can be made smaller by using the superconducting electromagnets 15, but hoses are also required for flowing liquid helium used to cool the superconducting electromagnets 15. This not only increases the number of cables 22, but also makes the thickness and rigidity of the cables 22 different for each type, increasing the difficulty of arranging the cables 22. In the first embodiment, the arranging wires 41 or arranging plates 42 can be provided in an appropriate manner for each type of cable 22, making arranging the cables easier.

[0099] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 11 to 13. Note that the same components as those shown in the above-described embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted.

[0100] 13, a monitoring device 50A for a rotating gantry 5 according to the second embodiment includes a limit switch 56, an interlock unit 53, and a main control unit 54. The limit switch 56 constitutes the monitoring unit of the second embodiment that monitors the state of the cable 22 on the spool 23.

[0101] 11, the limit switch 56 is fixed to the plate stand 46 that supports the wire alignment plate 42. In other words, the limit switch 56 is not affected by the rotation of the rotating gantry 5 and the spool 23, and is provided in a stationary state.

[0102] 12, for example, limit switches 56 are provided corresponding to each lane 27 in order to detect a disorderly winding state of the cable 22. For example, the limit switches 56 are provided at the opening of each lane 27 between the flange rings 26. In other words, the number of limit switches 56 provided is the same as the number of lanes 27. When disorderly winding occurs on the spool 23 and the cable 22 held by the lane 27 protrudes from the lane 27, the protruding state can be detected by the limit switches 56.

[0103] 13, the detection signal of the limit switch 56 is input to the interlock unit 53. If the state of the cable 22 on the spool 23 is abnormal, the interlock unit 53 inputs a stop signal to the main control unit 54, which stops the operation of the rotating gantry 5 and the particle beam therapy system 1.

[0104] In the second embodiment, the arrangement state of the cable 22 can be monitored by the limit switch 56. In this way, the protruding state of the cable 22 is detected by the contact of the cable 22 with the limit switch 56, making it less likely that an erroneous detection will occur. Also, the lane 27 from which the cable 22 is protruding can be accurately identified.

[0105] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 14 and 15. 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.

[0106] 15, a monitoring device 50B of a rotating gantry 5 according to the third embodiment includes a camera 57, an interlock unit 53, and a main control unit 54. The camera 57 constitutes a monitoring unit according to the third embodiment that monitors the state of the cable 22 on the spool 23.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 14 , a camera mount 58 extending upward is fixed to the building frame 10. For example, a plurality of camera mounts 58 are provided on both sides of the spool 23, spaced apart in the X direction. A plurality of cameras 57 are fixed to these camera mounts 58. The cameras 57 photograph the spool 23 from the side. The cameras 57 may photograph the spool 23 from above or below. The cameras 57 may also photograph the spool 23 from the rear side.

[0108] 15, an image of the spool 23 taken by the camera 57 is input to the interlock unit 53. Then, based on this image, the interlock unit 53 determines whether or not the cable 22 is irregularly wound. If irregularly wound, the interlock unit 53 inputs a stop signal to the main control unit 54, which stops the operation of the rotating gantry 5 and the particle beam therapy system 1.

[0109] The interlock unit 53 of the third embodiment is configured as a computer having hardware resources such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and HDD, and in which software-based information processing is realized using the hardware resources by the CPU executing various programs.

[0110] The interlock unit 53 also includes a machine learning unit 59. That is, the interlock unit 53 includes a computer equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) that performs machine learning. The machine learning unit 59 may also include a deep learning unit that extracts a specific pattern from multiple patterns based on deep learning. The machine learning unit 59 is realized by the CPU executing a program stored in the memory or the HDD.

[0111] In the third embodiment, machine learning is performed in advance using an image of the spool 23. The image of the spool 23 used for learning may be an image actually captured by the camera 57, or may be a CG image generated using computer graphics (CG) that imitates an image obtained by the camera 57. Furthermore, a wide variety of learning images may be generated by manually or automatically editing the image obtained by the camera 57.

[0112] In this way, a machine learning unit 59 is constructed as a classifier that can determine whether or not disordered winding has occurred, based on a learning image of the spool 23 in a normal state where no disordered winding has occurred and a learning image of the spool 23 in an abnormal state where disordered winding has occurred. Then, during actual treatment when the rotating gantry 5 is operating, a determination image taken by the camera 57 is input to the machine learning unit 59, and the presence or absence of disordered winding is determined.

[0113] The computer-based analysis of the third embodiment can use analytical techniques based on artificial intelligence learning. For example, a learning model generated by machine learning using a neural network, a learning model generated by other machine learning, a deep learning algorithm, a mathematical algorithm such as regression analysis, etc. Forms of machine learning include clustering, deep learning, etc.

[0114] The interlock unit 53 may be configured, for example, by one computer equipped with a neural network, or by multiple computers equipped with neural networks.

[0115] Here, a neural network is a mathematical model that represents the characteristics of brain function through computer simulation. For example, it refers to a model in which artificial neurons (nodes) that form a network through synaptic connections change the strength of synaptic connections through learning, thereby acquiring problem-solving ability. Furthermore, neural networks acquire problem-solving ability through deep learning.

[0116] For example, a neural network can have six hidden layers. Each hidden layer is made up of 300 units. By training the multi-layered neural network in advance using training data, it is possible to automatically extract features from patterns of change in the state of a circuit or system. The user interface can be used to set any number of hidden layers, any number of units, any learning rate, any number of training iterations, and any activation function for the multi-layered neural network.

[0117] In addition, deep reinforcement learning may be used in the neural network, in which a reward function is set for each information item to be learned, and the information item with the highest value is extracted based on the reward function.

[0118] For example, we use a convolutional neural network (CNN), which has a proven track record in image recognition. In this CNN, the intermediate layer is composed of a convolutional layer and a pooling layer. The convolutional layer obtains a feature map by filtering nearby nodes in the previous layer. The pooling layer further reduces the feature map output from the convolutional layer to create a new feature map. At this time, by obtaining the maximum value of the pixels contained in the region of interest in the feature map, it is possible to absorb slight deviations in the position of the feature amount.

[0119] The convolutional layer extracts local features from an image, and the pooling layer aggregates the local features. These processes reduce the size of the image while preserving the features of the input image. In other words, CNN can significantly compress (abstract) the amount of information contained in an image. Then, the abstracted image stored in the neural network can be used to recognize and classify input images.

[0120] Note that there are various deep learning techniques such as autoencoder, recurrent neural network (RNN), long short-term memory (LSTM), generative adversarial network (GAN), etc. These techniques may be applied to the deep learning of the third embodiment.

[0121] In the third embodiment, the state of the arrangement of the cable 22 can be monitored by the camera 57. In this way, the state of the spool 23 can be acquired as an image, making it easier to determine whether or not irregular winding has occurred.

[0122] Based on the image of the spool 23 captured by the camera 57, the administrator can determine whether or not the cable 22 is irregularly wound. Then, the administrator may press an emergency stop button to stop the operation of the rotating gantry 5 and the particle beam therapy system 1.

[0123] The rotating gantry monitoring device has been described based on the first to third embodiments, but the configuration applied in any one of the embodiments may be applied to the other embodiments, or the configurations applied in each embodiment may be combined.

[0124] In the flowcharts of the above-described embodiments, steps are illustrated as being executed serially, but the order of steps is not necessarily fixed, and some steps may be executed in reverse order. Also, some steps may be executed in parallel with other steps.

[0125] The monitoring device of the above-described embodiment includes a control device with a highly integrated processor such as a dedicated chip, FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or CPU (Central Processing Unit), a storage device such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory), an external storage device such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive), a display device such as a monitor, an input device such as a mouse or keyboard, and a communication interface. This system can be realized with a hardware configuration using a normal computer.

[0126] The programs executed by the monitoring devices of the above-described embodiments are provided by being pre-installed in a ROM, etc. Alternatively, the programs may be provided by being stored in an installable or executable file format on a computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium such as a CD-ROM, CD-R, memory card, DVD, or flexible disk (FD).

[0127] The programs executed by this monitoring device may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by downloading them via the network. This monitoring device may also be configured by combining separate modules that independently perform the functions of the components and are interconnected via a network or dedicated lines.

[0128] Although the above-described embodiment exemplifies a facility that performs heavy ion cancer therapy, the above-described embodiment can also be applied to other facilities. For example, the above-described embodiment may be applied to a facility that performs proton cancer therapy.

[0129] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, the monitoring unit that monitors the state of the cable on the spool is provided, so that the state of the cable arrangement can be monitored.

[0130] 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]

[0131] 1...particle beam therapy system, 2...beam generator, 3...circular accelerator, 4...beam transport line, 5...rotating gantry, 6...vacuum duct, 7...particle beam, 8...patient, 9...horizontal axis, 10...body, 11...end ring, 12...rotation drive unit, 13...irradiation nozzle, 14...transport unit, 15...superconducting magnet, 16...treatment space, 17...treatment table, 18...treatment room, 19...floor, 20...counterweight, 21...weight pit, 22...cable, 23...spool, 24...cable pit, 25...flange, 26...retainer Ring, 27...lane, 28...periphery, 29...chamfered portion, 30...fixing device, 31...penetration portion, 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 (50A, 50B)...monitoring device, 51...laser sensor, 52...relay, 53...interlock unit, 54...main control unit, 55...laser, 56...limit switch, 57...camera, 58...camera stand, 59...machine learning unit, G1...first group, G2...second group, R...specific range.

Claims

1. a rotating gantry supporting an irradiation nozzle that irradiates a particle beam and a transport unit that transports the particle beam to the irradiation nozzle, the rotating gantry rotating around a horizontal axis facing horizontally; a plurality of cables having one end connected to the rotating gantry and the other end connected to a stationary device; a spool provided on the rotating gantry for winding or unwinding the cable; a monitoring unit that monitors the state of the cable on the spool; Equipped with The spool includes a plurality of disk-shaped flange rings and a plurality of recessed lanes that hold the cable between the flange rings, the monitoring unit is a laser sensor that irradiates a laser along the peripheral edge of the flange ring in the axial direction of the rotating gantry and detects the cable protruding from the flange ring. Rotating gantry monitoring device.

2. A rotating gantry that supports an irradiation nozzle that irradiates a particle beam and a transport unit that transports the particle beam to the irradiation nozzle and rotates around a horizontal axis facing horizontally; a plurality of cables having one end connected to the rotating gantry and the other end connected to a stationary device; a spool provided on the rotating gantry for winding or unwinding the cable; a monitoring unit that monitors the state of the cable on the spool; Equipped with The spool includes a plurality of disk-shaped flange rings and a plurality of recessed lanes that hold the cable between the flange rings, The monitoring unit is a limit switch that detects a protruding state of the cable held in the lane. Rotating gantry monitoring device.

3. an interlock unit that stops driving of the rotating gantry when an abnormality in the cable is detected based on monitoring by the monitoring unit; 3. The rotating gantry monitoring device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the spool is provided so as to protrude rearward from the rear portion of the rotating gantry, the laser sensor emits the laser backward from a position close to the rear of the rotating gantry; 2. The rotating gantry monitoring device of claim 1.

5. The laser sensor is a reflective laser sensor that detects the cable protruding from the flange ring based on the reflection of the laser irradiated on the cable.

2. The rotating gantry monitoring device of claim 1.

6. A plurality of wire alignment plates that separate the plurality of cables aligned in the axial direction of the rotating gantry and are arranged in parallel while stationary at positions close to the spool; a plate stand for supporting the wiring board, The laser sensor is fixed to the plate stand at a position close to the spool and the wire arrangement plate.

2. The rotating gantry monitoring device of claim 1.

7. a rotating gantry supporting an irradiation nozzle for irradiating a particle beam and a transport unit for transporting the particle beam to the irradiation nozzle, rotating around a horizontal axis facing horizontally; a spool mounted on the rotating gantry for winding or unwinding 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 monitoring unit monitoring a state of the cable on the spool; Including, The spool includes a plurality of disk-shaped flange rings and a plurality of recessed lanes that hold the cable between the flange rings, the monitoring unit is a laser sensor that irradiates a laser along the peripheral edge of the flange ring in the axial direction of the rotating gantry and detects the cable protruding from the flange ring. A method for monitoring a rotating gantry.

8. A step in which a rotating gantry supporting an irradiation nozzle that irradiates a particle beam and a transport unit that transports the particle beam to the irradiation nozzle rotates around a horizontal axis facing horizontally; a spool mounted on the rotating gantry for winding or unwinding 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 monitoring unit monitoring a state of the cable on the spool; Including, The spool includes a plurality of disk-shaped flange rings and a plurality of recessed lanes that hold the cable between the flange rings, The monitoring unit is a limit switch that detects a protruding state of the cable held in the lane. A method for monitoring a rotating gantry.

9. and a step of, when an abnormality in the cable is detected based on monitoring by the monitoring unit, stopping driving of the rotating gantry by an interlock unit.

9. A method for monitoring a rotating gantry according to claim 7 or 8.

10. a monitoring device for the rotating gantry according to any one of claims 1 to 6; a treatment table that moves and positions a patient at an irradiation position of the particle beam guided by the transport unit in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal axis; a beam generator for generating the particle beam; an accelerator that accelerates the particle beam; Equipped with Particle therapy system.

Images