Radiation apparatus

Abstract

A radiation apparatus, comprising a rotatable assembly, the rotatable assembly being capable of rotating about a rotation axis; a beam assembly arranged on the rotatable assembly, wherein the beam assembly comprises a plurality of beam modules, each of the beam modules is used for emitting a radiation beam, and the plurality of beam modules are spaced apart along a circumferential direction of the rotatable assembly; and a power divider arranged on the rotatable assembly, wherein the power divider is provided with a plurality of power distribution ports, the plurality of power distribution ports are connected to the plurality of beam modules, respectively, and the beam assembly and the power divider are capable of rotating about the rotation axis along with the rotatable assembly.

Description

Radiation device

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202510073142.9, filed on January 16, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to the fields of radiation inspection and radiotherapy, particularly to the field of flash therapy, and more specifically, to a radiation device. Background Technology

[0003] Ultra-high dose rate radiotherapy (UHT) refers to dose rates exceeding 40 Gy / s over a short period, such as an average dose rate exceeding 300 Gy / s. It can be applied in fields such as medical radiotherapy, container security inspection, and industrial imaging. Flash therapy, also known as ultra-high dose rate radiotherapy (FLASH-RT), is a treatment option for tumor radiotherapy. Utilizing flash therapy technology, while killing tumor cells, it not only has lower toxicity to normal tissues but also reduces the risk of damage to the patient's body from postoperative administration of large amounts of rejection drugs. Simultaneously, it shortens the postoperative recovery period and improves the postoperative quality of life.

[0004] In the process of realizing the inventive concept disclosed herein, the inventors discovered that for radiation devices to achieve ultra-high dose rates, it is necessary to achieve ultra-high dose rate radiation at a specified location from multiple angles within a short period of time. How to design the structure of such a radiation device is a problem that researchers in this technical field urgently need to solve. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address at least one aspect of the above-mentioned problems, embodiments of this disclosure provide a radiation device.

[0006] In one aspect, a radiation device is provided, comprising: a rotatable assembly capable of rotating about a rotation axis; a beam assembly disposed on the rotatable assembly, wherein the beam assembly includes a plurality of beam modules, each beam module being used to emit a radiation beam, the plurality of beam modules being arranged at intervals along the circumferential direction of the rotatable assembly; and a power divider disposed on the rotatable assembly, wherein the power divider has a plurality of power distribution ports, the plurality of power distribution ports being respectively connected to the plurality of beam modules, wherein the beam assembly and the power divider are capable of rotating with the rotatable assembly about the rotation axis.

[0007] According to some exemplary embodiments, the output end of each of the beam modules faces the rotation axis of the rotatable component, and the radiation beam output by each of the beam modules converges on the rotation axis.

[0008] According to some exemplary embodiments, the radiation device further includes a pulse transformer disposed on the rotatable component, the pulse transformer being used to convert a first voltage DC power supply into a second voltage pulse power supply, the second voltage being higher than the first voltage, the pulse transformer being rotatable with the rotatable component about the rotation axis.

[0009] According to some exemplary embodiments, the radiation device further includes a power source disposed on the rotatable component, the power source being connected to the pulse transformer, the power source being used to generate microwave energy, and the power source being rotatable with the rotatable component about the rotation axis.

[0010] According to some exemplary embodiments, the radiation device further includes a power combiner disposed on the rotatable component, the power combiner being connected to the power source, the power combiner being used to combine the microwave energy provided by the power source, and the power combiner being rotatable with the rotatable component around the rotation axis.

[0011] According to some exemplary embodiments, the radiation device further includes a plurality of waveguides, the plurality of power distribution ports being connected to the plurality of beam modules through the plurality of waveguides respectively, and at least two of the plurality of waveguides having unequal waveguide lengths.

[0012] According to some exemplary embodiments, the rotatable assembly includes a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other along the extension direction of the rotation axis; the radiation device further includes a mounting plate disposed on the outer wall of the second end of the rotatable assembly and extending outward along the radial direction of the rotatable assembly; and the beam assembly is disposed on the mounting plate.

[0013] According to some exemplary embodiments, the mounting plate includes: a first mounting plate disposed on a first side of the second end; and a second mounting plate disposed on a second side of the second end opposite to the first side; and a portion of the plurality of beam modules disposed on the first mounting plate, and another portion of the plurality of beam modules disposed on the second mounting plate.

[0014] According to some exemplary embodiments, the first mounting plate and the second mounting plate are coplanar on one side to form a second mounting surface, and the plurality of beam modules are disposed on the second mounting surface.

[0015] According to some exemplary embodiments, the first mounting plate and the second mounting plate are respectively provided with a plurality of mounting holes, which are used to install the plurality of beam modules respectively and to position the plurality of beam modules on the mounting plate in the circumferential direction.

[0016] According to some exemplary embodiments, the radiation device further includes a drive assembly for driving the rotatable assembly to rotate about the rotation axis.

[0017] According to some exemplary embodiments, the rotatable assembly includes a roller; the drive assembly includes: a ring gear coaxially disposed on the outer wall of a first end of the roller; and a drive unit that is kinetically connected to the ring gear and adapted to output torque to the ring gear.

[0018] According to some exemplary embodiments, at least one of the beam modules includes an electron linear accelerator.

[0019] According to some exemplary embodiments, the radiation device further includes an adjustment component for adjusting the position of the pulse transformer relative to the power divider and holding the pulse transformer in a preset position. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a radiation device according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the radiation device shown in Figure 1 as viewed from a frontal angle;

[0022] Figure 3 is a simplified structural diagram of the radiation device shown in Figure 1 as viewed from a frontal view.

[0023] Figure 4 is a hardware block diagram of a radiation device according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the support frame and adjustment assembly portion according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the adjustment component of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 5 from a top view.

[0026] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the frame of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 1, showing the support assembly and the rotatable assembly;

[0027] Figure 8 schematically illustrates a structural diagram of a calibration target assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein Figure 8(a) is a front view of the calibration target assembly and Figure 8(b) is a side view of the calibration target assembly;

[0028] Figure 9 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of the structure of the rotatable assembly and the calibration target assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 10 schematically shows a top view of the structure of the rotatable assembly and the calibration target assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 11 schematically illustrates the installation zero-position state diagram according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0031] Figure 12 schematically illustrates a flowchart of a calibration method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0032] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with specific embodiments and the accompanying drawings.

[0033] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. The terms “comprising,” “including,” etc., as used herein indicate the presence of the stated features, steps, operations, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, or components.

[0034] All terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art, unless otherwise defined. It should be noted that the terms used herein are to be interpreted in a manner consistent with the context of this specification, and not in an idealized or overly rigid way.

[0035] When using expressions such as "at least one of A, B, and C," the expression should generally be interpreted in accordance with the meaning commonly understood by those skilled in the art. For example, "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" should include, but is not limited to, systems having A alone, having B alone, having C alone, having A and B, having A and C, having B and C, and / or systems having A, B, and C. Similarly, when using expressions such as "at least one of A, B, or C," the expression should generally be interpreted in accordance with the meaning commonly understood by those skilled in the art. For example, "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" should include, but is not limited to, systems having A alone, having B alone, having C alone, having A and B, having A and C, having B and C, and / or systems having A, B, and C.

[0036] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a radiation device according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is a structural schematic diagram of the radiation device shown in Figure 1 viewed from a frontal view. Figure 3 is a simplified structural schematic diagram of the radiation device shown in Figure 1 viewed from a frontal view. Figure 4 is a hardware block diagram of a radiation device according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] Referring to Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4, the radiation device 100 provided in this embodiment includes a frame 1, a pulse transformer 2, a beam assembly 3, a power source 5, a power combiner 6, a power divider 7 and a waveguide 8.

[0038] For example, the radiation device 100 provided in this disclosure embodiment may include an ultra-high dose rate radiation device for generating a radiation beam applicable to fields such as flash radiotherapy, container security inspection and industrial imaging, and is capable of radiation transfer at ultra-high dose rates (e.g., above 40 Gy / s), thereby completing the desired radiation in a very short time.

[0039] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, in this article, "ultra-high dose rate" includes dose rates exceeding 40 Gy / s over a short period of time, such as an average dose rate exceeding 300 Gy / s. Ultra-high dose rates can be applied in fields such as medical radiotherapy, container security inspection, and industrial imaging.

[0040] Flash therapy, also known as ultra-high dose rate radiotherapy (FLASH-RT), is a treatment option for tumor radiotherapy. Utilizing flash therapy technology, it kills tumor cells while having lower toxicity to normal tissues. It also reduces the risk of damage to the patient's body from postoperative administration of large amounts of rejection drugs, shortens the postoperative recovery period, and improves postoperative quality of life. In other words, FLASH-RT uses ultra-fast irradiation, with a dose rate several orders of magnitude higher than that used in traditional radiotherapy (e.g., 20-100 Gy / s compared to 1-4 Gy / min). This ultra-high dose rate reduces the direct radiation-induced toxicity to normal tissues while maintaining the same effective response to lesions; this is the so-called "flash effect."

[0041] For example, the frame 1 may include a support assembly 13, a rotatable assembly 11, and a carrier frame 14. For instance, the rotatable assembly 11 may include a roller, which may be configured as a horizontal structure. As shown in FIG1, the rotatable assembly 11 has a rotation axis AX1 extending along its axial direction; for example, in the orientation shown in FIG1, the axial direction of the rotatable assembly 11 is along the x-direction, and the rotation axis AX1 may be a straight line passing through the geometric center of the end face of the rotatable assembly 11 along the x-direction. In the axial direction of the rotatable assembly 11, the rotatable assembly 11 has a first end 111 and a second end 112. The rotatable assembly 11 is capable of rotating about its rotation axis AX1.

[0042] The pulse transformer 2, beam assembly 3, power source 5, power combiner 6, power divider 7, and waveguide 8 can be mounted on the rotatable assembly 11. When the rotatable assembly 11 rotates about its rotation axis AX1, the pulse transformer 2, beam assembly 3, power source 5, power combiner 6, power divider 7, and waveguide 8 can rotate along with the rotatable assembly 11.

[0043] In embodiments of this disclosure, pulse transformer 2 is used to convert a low-voltage DC power supply into a high-voltage pulse power supply and provide it to power source 5. Power source 5 is used to generate microwave energy to provide an energy source for the operation of the radiation device. Power combiner 6 is used to combine the microwave energy provided by power source 5 to increase microwave power. Power distributor 7 is used to distribute microwave energy to beam assembly 3.

[0044] For example, pulse transformer 2 may include a primary winding, a secondary winding, and a magnetic core. Based on the law of electromagnetic induction, when a low-voltage DC power supply is applied to the primary winding, a control circuit causes a rapid change in the current in the primary winding, thereby generating a changing magnetic field in the magnetic core. This changing magnetic field induces a high-voltage pulse signal in the secondary winding, realizing the conversion from low-voltage DC to high-voltage pulse. Pulse transformer 2 provides the required high-voltage pulse power supply for power source 5. By converting the low-voltage DC power supply to a high-voltage pulse power supply, the specific voltage requirements for the power source to generate microwave energy can be met. This conversion method is efficient and stable, and can precisely control parameters such as the amplitude, width, and frequency of the output pulse, providing stable and compliant power support for subsequent microwave energy generation.

[0045] For example, power source 5 may include a magnetron power source or a klystron power source. A magnetron power source utilizes the motion of electrons in magnetic and electric fields to generate microwave oscillations in a resonant cavity, thereby outputting microwave energy. A klystron power source achieves speed modulation and focusing of the electron beam through the interaction of the electron beam in structures such as the input cavity, drift tube, and output cavity, thus generating high-power microwave output. The main function of power source 5 is to generate microwave energy, providing energy support for processes such as electron beam or X-ray beam acceleration in beam assembly 3; it is the core microwave energy generation unit in the entire system. The performance parameters of power source 5 may include output power, frequency, efficiency, and stability. Output power determines the amount of energy that can be provided for beam acceleration, while frequency affects the effect and characteristics of the interaction between microwaves and the beam. High efficiency means reducing energy loss during the conversion of electrical energy into microwave energy, and stability ensures that the output microwave energy remains within a certain accuracy range during long-term operation, providing a guarantee for the stable operation of the system.

[0046] For example, the power combiner 6, based on power combining technology in microwave circuits, can include power combiners using transmission line transformer combining, waveguide combining, and other methods. Taking transmission line transformer combining as an example, it utilizes the characteristics of transmission lines to combine microwave signals provided by multiple power sources 5 within a preset circuit structure. By rationally designing parameters such as the length and characteristic impedance of the transmission lines, the input microwave signals are superimposed in phase at the combining point, thereby achieving power combining. In waveguide combining, the mode characteristics and coupling structure of waveguides are used to combine microwave energy from different waveguides, forming a higher-power microwave signal at the output. The power combiner 6 is used to combine the microwave energy provided by multiple power sources 5 to increase microwave power and meet the high-power microwave requirements of the beam assembly 3. Through the power combiner 6, multiple relatively low-power microwave sources can be combined to form a high-power microwave source, which not only improves the overall power output of the system but also provides a certain degree of flexibility and reliability. For example, when one power source fails, other power sources can still provide partial power to the system through the power combiner, ensuring the basic operation of the system and improving its fault tolerance.

[0047] For example, the power divider 7 can employ a tree-like or branch-like microwave circuit design. In the power divider 7, based on the transmission and distribution characteristics of microwave signals, multiple branch ports are set on the main transmission line, and parameters such as the branch position, length, and impedance matching are designed to ensure that the input microwave energy is distributed to each branch port in a certain proportion, i.e., distributed to different beam modules in the beam assembly 3. For example, in a T-type power divider, the microwave signal in the main transmission line splits into two branches at the T-node. By adjusting the length and characteristic impedance of the branch lines, the microwave energy can be evenly distributed or distributed to the two branches in a specific proportion. The power divider 7 is used to evenly distribute the microwave energy combined by the power combiner 6 or according to specific needs to each beam module in the beam assembly 3, ensuring that each beam module receives appropriate microwave energy to drive processes such as electron beam or X-ray beam acceleration.

[0048] In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the beam assembly 3 may include a plurality of beam modules 30. Exemplarily, the beam assembly 3 may include N beam modules 30, where N is a positive integer greater than or equal to 2, for example, N may be equal to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, N equals 5, that is, the beam assembly 3 includes 5 beam modules 30. For ease of description, the 5 beam modules 30 may be described as a first beam module 301, a second beam module 302, a third beam module 303, a fourth beam module 304, and a fifth beam module 305, respectively.

[0049] Referring to Figure 4, the power divider 7 may include N power distribution ports. In the illustrated embodiment, the power divider 7 may include 5 power distribution ports. For ease of description, the 5 power distribution ports can be described as a first power distribution port 71, a second power distribution port 72, a third power distribution port 73, a fourth power distribution port 74, and a fifth power distribution port 75, respectively.

[0050] Waveguide 8 may include N sub-waveguides. In the illustrated embodiment, waveguide 8 may include 5 sub-waveguides. For ease of description, the 5 sub-waveguides may be described as first sub-waveguide 81, second sub-waveguide 82, third sub-waveguide 83, fourth sub-waveguide 84, and fifth sub-waveguide 85, respectively.

[0051] For example, the first power distribution port 71 can be connected to the first beam module 301 through the first sub-waveguide 81, the second power distribution port 72 can be connected to the second beam module 302 through the second sub-waveguide 82, the third power distribution port 73 can be connected to the third beam module 303 through the third sub-waveguide 83, the fourth power distribution port 74 can be connected to the fourth beam module 304 through the fourth sub-waveguide 84, and the fifth power distribution port 75 can be connected to the fifth beam module 305 through the fifth sub-waveguide 85.

[0052] In some exemplary embodiments, the first sub-waveguide 81, the second sub-waveguide 82, the third sub-waveguide 83, the fourth sub-waveguide 84, and the fifth sub-waveguide 85 may each have a predetermined waveguide length. Exemplarily, at least two of the first sub-waveguide 81, the second sub-waveguide 82, the third sub-waveguide 83, the fourth sub-waveguide 84, and the fifth sub-waveguide 85 have unequal waveguide lengths. The waveguide length of each of the first sub-waveguide 81, the second sub-waveguide 82, the third sub-waveguide 83, the fourth sub-waveguide 84, and the fifth sub-waveguide 85 is matched to the microwave energy allocated to each power distribution port.

[0053] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," and similar expressions used here are for descriptive convenience only and are not intended to limit the structure of each beam module. In the embodiments of this disclosure, the structures of each beam module may be the same or different, and the embodiments of this disclosure do not impose any particular limitations on this.

[0054] For example, in some embodiments, the beam module 30 may include an electron linear accelerator. For instance, the beam module 30 may include components such as an electron gun, an acceleration tube, a focusing system, a beam monitoring device, a beam transmission line, and a cooling device.

[0055] For example, an electron gun can include a cathode, an anode, and a focusing electrode. The cathode can be made of a thermionic emission material, such as a tungsten filament or a barium tungsten cathode, which emits a large number of electrons when heated to a certain temperature. The anode has a small hole to allow electrons to pass through, and a high voltage is applied between the anode and cathode to create a strong electric field, causing the electrons emitted from the cathode to accelerate towards the anode under the influence of the electric field. The focusing electrode is used to focus the electron beam into a relatively concentrated electron stream. The electron gun is used to generate the initial electron beam, providing the electron source for the entire beam module.

[0056] For example, an accelerating tube may include a series of accelerating cavities interconnected by a coupling structure. The accelerating cavities can be made of metallic materials and have a specific electromagnetic field distribution formed inside. A high-frequency power input device can be installed outside the accelerating tube to transmit microwave power to the accelerating cavities. Inside the accelerating tube, an electron beam is accelerated using a microwave electric field. When microwave power is input to the accelerating cavity, an alternating electric field is formed within it. As the electron beam passes through the accelerating cavity, the electric field does work on the electrons, giving them energy and thus accelerating them. Through continuous acceleration by multiple accelerating cavities, the electron beam can achieve higher energies.

[0057] For example, a focusing system may include an electromagnetic lens, which consists of a coil and an iron core. A certain current is passed through the coil, generating a magnetic field. This magnetic field exerts a force on the moving electron beam, thereby focusing the electron beam. In an electron linear accelerator, multiple electromagnetic lenses can be arranged at different positions to form a focusing system. Since the electron beam has a natural tendency to diverge during acceleration and transmission, the function of the focusing system is to generate an appropriate magnetic field to subject the electron beam to an inward focusing force, thereby maintaining the beam current intensity and focused state, reducing beam divergence, and ensuring that the electron beam can be accurately transmitted to the target location.

[0058] For example, a beam monitoring device can include a beam position monitor, a beam intensity monitor, and a beam energy spectrum monitor. The beam position monitor can employ a capacitive or inductive sensor, determining the position of the electron beam by detecting the interaction between the electron beam and the sensor. The beam intensity monitor can be a Faraday cylinder or other type of current sensor, used to measure the current magnitude of the electron beam, thereby obtaining the beam intensity. The beam energy spectrum monitor can deflect the electron beam using a magnetic or electric field, and then measure the distribution of electrons at different energies using a detector. Through the beam monitoring device, various parameters of the electron beam, such as beam position, intensity, and energy distribution, can be monitored in real time.

[0059] For example, a beam transmission line may include a metal conduit and a vacuum system. The metal conduit guides the transmission of the electron beam; its inner wall has a smooth surface and good conductivity to reduce the interaction between the electron beam and the conduit wall and energy loss. The vacuum system includes a vacuum pump, vacuum valves, and vacuum measuring devices. The vacuum pump evacuates the conduit to a high vacuum state, reducing collisions and scattering of the electron beam with gas molecules. The beam transmission line transmits the electron beam generated by the linear electron accelerator to a designated location, such as a radiation device, for subsequent applications. Simultaneously, maintaining the high vacuum environment within the conduit ensures that the electron beam can transmit smoothly under conditions of low scattering and low energy loss.

[0060] For example, a cooling system may include cooling circulation pumps, cooling pipes, heat exchangers, and temperature sensors. Cooling pipes are distributed around various critical components of the electron linear accelerator, such as the electron gun, accelerator tube, and focusing system, which generate significant amounts of heat during operation. Cooling circulation pumps drive the cooling medium to circulate within the pipes. Heat exchangers dissipate the heat absorbed by the cooling medium to the external environment, and temperature sensors monitor the temperature of the cooling medium and individual components in real time. The cooling system effectively cools the various components of the electron linear accelerator, preventing damage or performance degradation due to overheating. During operation, heat is generated by the electron gun emitting electrons, the microwave power dissipation in the accelerator tube, and the magnetic field generated by the focusing system. The cooling system removes this heat by circulating cooling medium, maintaining component temperatures within a reasonable range, ensuring stable operation of the electron linear accelerator, and extending the equipment's lifespan.

[0061] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the roller in the rotatable assembly 11 can be configured as a horizontal structure. The first end 111 and the second end 112 of the rotatable assembly 11 are rotatably mounted on the support assembly 13. The support frame 14 is mounted on the outer wall of the first end 111 and is suitable for supporting the external pulse transformer 2 so that the pulse transformer 2 rotates synchronously with the rotatable assembly 11.

[0062] In some exemplary embodiments, the rotatable component 11 is configured as a generally cylindrical tube structure. To meet the assembly and use requirements of the rotatable component 11 with other components, suitable through holes and / or groove structures can be formed on the main tube structure, specifically through holes suitable for accommodating the passage of the radiation beam. Furthermore, to meet the assembly and load-bearing requirements of the rotatable component 11 with other components of the radiation device, an appropriate number of reinforcing ribs can be provided on its inner and / or outer walls. These reinforcing ribs can be arranged either circumferentially or axially along the rotatable component 11.

[0063] In some exemplary embodiments, the rotatable assembly 11 is configured as a horizontal structure, meaning that the axis of the rotatable assembly 11 extends along the x-direction as shown in FIG1, and the x-direction is substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. This allows the object to be fed horizontally into the internal space of the rotatable assembly 11 during radiographic scanning.

[0064] In some exemplary embodiments, the support frame 14 is mounted on the outer wall of the rotatable component 11. Specifically, it can be mounted on the outer wall surface of the rotatable component 11, and the support frame 14 extends radially outward along the rotatable component 11. Further, the pulse transformer 2 configured in the radiation device is disposed on the support frame 14 to connect with the rotatable component 11 via the support frame 14, and rotates synchronously with the rotatable component 11 during its rotation. The support frame 14 is mounted on the exterior of the rotatable component 11 by means including but not limited to riveting, welding, bolting, integral forming, and any other method.

[0065] In this embodiment, the rotatable component 11 is rotatably mounted on the support component 13, suitable for providing a reliable mounting platform for the radiation device, so that the rays output from the multiple beam modules configured in the radiation device can be precisely focused within the rotatable component 11. The carrier frame is used to assemble components such as pulse transformers onto the rotatable component 11 and move with the rotatable component 11, so as to position and connect with other components of the radiation device, so that during the operation of the radiation device, the pulse transformer converts the low-voltage DC power supply into a high-voltage pulse power supply, thereby cooperating with the power source to provide the required energy for the accelerating tubes in the beam modules to generate high-energy rays.

[0066] According to some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the rotatable assembly 11 is also adapted to mount components such as the beam assembly 3, power source 5, power combiner 6, and power divider 7, so that the components such as the beam assembly 3, power source 5, power combiner 6, and power divider 7 rotate synchronously with the rotatable assembly 11. For example, the beam assembly 3 is disposed on the outer side of the second end 112 of the rotatable assembly 11, and the power divider 7 is disposed on the outer wall of the portion of the rotatable assembly 11 located between the first end and the second end.

[0067] In some exemplary embodiments, the support frame 14 is disposed on the outer wall of the rotatable assembly 11 near the first end 111, the beam assembly 3 is disposed on the second end 112 of the rotatable assembly 11, and the power divider 7 is disposed on the portion of the rotatable assembly 11 located between the first end 111 and the second end 112. In this way, by installing different parts or components of the radiation device on different parts of the rotatable assembly 11, the stress on each part of the rotatable assembly 11 can be made more uniform, preventing stress concentration and effectively preventing uneven loading of the rotatable assembly 11 during rotation.

[0068] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the support frame and adjustment assembly portion according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0069] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in Figures 1 and 5, the support frame 14 includes a mounting portion 141 and a support portion 142. The mounting portion 141 is disposed on the outer wall of the rotatable assembly 11 and extends radially outward along the rotatable assembly 11. The support portion 142 is disposed at the end of the mounting portion 141 away from the rotatable assembly 11 and forms a first mounting surface parallel to the axis of the rotatable assembly 11.

[0070] In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in FIG5, two support frames 14 are provided on the rotatable assembly 11, which are symmetrically arranged on both radial sides of the rotatable assembly 11. Specifically, a pulse transformer 2 is mounted on the first mounting surface formed by each support frame 14. The pulse transformers 2 located on both sides of the axis of the rotatable assembly 11 are respectively connected to the power divider in close proximity.

[0071] For example, two power dividers 7 can be set. One power divider 7 can be set on the upper part of the rotatable component 11 through the divider bracket 12, and the other power divider can be set on the lower part of the rotatable component 11 through another divider bracket. The two power dividers are respectively connected to the pulse transformer 2 through waveguides.

[0072] In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 5, each support frame 14 includes two mounting portions 141 disposed opposite to each other on the outer wall of the rotatable assembly 11. Specifically, a bearing portion 142 is disposed between the lower ends of the two mounting portions 141.

[0073] In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in FIG5, the mounting portion 141 is configured as a generally "T"-shaped plate structure. Its narrower upper end can be directly or indirectly mounted to the outer wall of the rotatable assembly 11 via other connectors, while its wider lower end is used to mount the support portion 142. Specifically, the support portion 142 includes, but is not limited to, a generally rectangular plate structure with its two opposite sides mounted on the mounting portion 141 on the same side, as shown in FIG5. The upper surface of the support portion 142 forms the aforementioned first mounting surface to support the pulse transformer 2. The support portion 142 and the mounting portion 141 are connected by, but not limited to, riveting, welding, bolting, integral connection, or any other method.

[0074] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the adjustment component of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 5 from a top view.

[0075] In some exemplary embodiments, the pulse transformer 2 is connected to the power divider via a waveguide, so that the output of the pulse transformer 2 can output a microwave signal to the power divider. The waveguide is adapted to guide the microwave signal to the power divider.

[0076] In some exemplary embodiments, the waveguide includes, but is not limited to, hollow metal tubes configured with circular, square, and elliptical cross-sections. Because the waveguide is rigid, precise relative positioning of the pulse transformer 2 and the power divider is required when using it to connect the pulse transformer 2 to the power divider. However, when assembling the support frame 14 with the rotatable assembly 11, insurmountable assembly errors inevitably exist, making it difficult to achieve precise positioning between the pulse transformer 2 and the power divider, thus preventing an effective connection between the pulse transformer 2 and the power divider via the waveguide.

[0077] Therefore, referring to Figures 5 and 6, according to an embodiment of this disclosure, the rack 1 further includes an adjustment assembly 16. The adjustment assembly 16 is disposed between the support frame 14 and the pulse transformer 2, adapted to adjust the position of the pulse transformer 2 relative to the power divider and to hold the pulse transformer 2 in the assembled position. Thus, by means of the adjustment assembly 16, the position of the pulse transformer 2 disposed on the support frame 14 can be adjusted, for example, along the x-direction and / or y-direction as shown in Figure 5, so that the spacing between the pulse transformer 2 and the power divider is precisely connected via a waveguide.

[0078] According to embodiments of this disclosure, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the adjustment component 16 is disposed on the support portion 142 and is adapted to move the pulse transformer 2 in a direction parallel to the first mounting surface and / or in a direction orthogonal to the first mounting surface toward or away from the rotatable component 11.

[0079] According to embodiments of this disclosure, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the adjustment assembly 16 includes a movable plate 161 and a lifting member 163. The movable plate 161 is slidably disposed on a first mounting surface and is adapted to translate along a first direction or a second direction. The lifting member 163 is disposed on the movable plate 161 and abuts against the first mounting surface, adapted to adjust the distance between the movable plate 161 and the first mounting surface along a third direction. The pulse transformer 2 is mounted on the movable plate 161 to move synchronously with the movable plate 161.

[0080] According to embodiments of this disclosure, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the adjustment assembly 16 further includes a limiting member adapted to limit the displacement of the moving plate 161 along the first and second directions, so as to keep the pulse transformer 2 in the assembled position.

[0081] In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the adjusting assembly 16 includes a movable plate 161, which is connected to the first mounting surface of the support portion 142 of the support frame 14 by a second screw 167. Specifically, mounting beams 162 are integrally provided at both ends of the movable plate 161 along the x-direction as shown in Figure 5. The two mounting beams 162 have a larger gap with the first mounting surface than the gap between the movable plate 161 and the first mounting surface, so as to accommodate the lifting member 163.

[0082] In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the adjustment assembly 16 includes multiple pairs of lifting members 163, with two lifting members 163 in each pair symmetrically arranged at the corners of the moving plate 161, that is, one lifting member 163 is provided at each corner of the moving plate. Each lifting member 163 includes an integrally formed screw and a ball head.

[0083] For example, the number of lifting components 163 can be set to 2, 3, 5, 6 or any other number.

[0084] For example, the lifting member 163 can be located in the middle of the movable plate 161 or at other locations.

[0085] In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, a ball bearing is rolled within the ball head of the lifting member 163, and this ball bearing presses against the first mounting surface. Further, the screw of the lifting member 163 extends along the y-direction as shown in Figure 5 and is threadedly engaged with the assembly beam 162. Thus, the lifting member 163 allows the movable plate 161 to be slidably supported on the first mounting surface of the support portion 142, enabling the movable plate 161 to translate relative to the first mounting surface and adjust the distance between the movable plate 161 and the first mounting surface.

[0086] In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the base plate located at the bottom of the pulse transformer 2 is fixed to the movable plate 161 by a first screw 166, forming an integral connection with the movable plate 161, thereby allowing it to move or rise and fall with the movable plate 161. With the participation of the aforementioned lifting member 163, the pulse transformer 2 can achieve adjustment of its relative position with the first mounting surface to facilitate precise connection with the waveguide. In addition to fulfilling the design requirement of position adjustment, corresponding limiting members can also be configured to hold the pulse transformer 2 and the power divider in the assembled position after they are connected, preventing misalignment during the rotation of the rotatable assembly 11.

[0087] In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the limiting member includes a top block 165, a set screw 164 disposed on the top block 165, and a second screw 167. Specifically, the top blocks 165 are arranged in pairs along the x and y directions of the movable plate 161 as shown in Figure 6. Further, each top block 165 is threadedly connected to a set screw 164, and the end of each set screw 164 presses against the edge of the movable plate 161, thereby adjusting and locking the position of the movable plate 161 relative to the support portion 142 by the portion of the set screw 164 protruding relative to the top block 165. Further still, the lifting member 163 is threadedly connected to the assembly beam 162, and under the action of friction, it has a certain limiting effect along the z direction as shown in Figure 3. Under the action of centrifugal force of the rotating rotatable assembly 11, there is still a risk of relative movement. Therefore, in the embodiments of this disclosure, the movable plate 161 and the support portion 142 are further fixed together by the second screw 167 to maintain their relative distance.

[0088] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the frame of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 1, showing the support assembly and the rotatable assembly.

[0089] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the frame further includes a mounting plate 15 disposed on the outer wall of the second end of the rotatable assembly 11 and extending outward in the radial direction of the rotatable assembly 11. A beam assembly 3 is disposed on the mounting plate 15.

[0090] According to embodiments of this disclosure, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the frame includes a first mounting plate 151 and a second mounting plate 152. The first mounting plate 151 is disposed on a first side of the second end. The second mounting plate 152 is disposed on a second side of the second end opposite to the first side. The beam assembly 3 includes a plurality of beam modules 30, some of which are disposed on the first mounting plate 151, and others are disposed on the second mounting plate 152. The output ends of all beam modules 30 are arranged facing the axis of the rotatable assembly 11, so that the particle beams output by each beam module 30 converge at a point on the axis of the rotatable assembly 11.

[0091] In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, each beam module 30 in the beam assembly 3 is, but is not limited to, constructed with the same structure. This modular design not only shortens the processing cycle of the beam module 30, but also facilitates matching with external structures, thereby improving the adaptability and interchangeability of the beam module 30.

[0092] In some exemplary embodiments, the beam module 30 includes a beam module base, a collimating mounting base, and a flange disposed opposite to the collimating mounting base. Further, the beam module 30 also includes at least a high-energy accelerating tube and a V-shaped collimating unit. The high-energy accelerating tube is mounted on the beam module base, and its output end is located within the cavity formed by the beam module base. A flange is provided at the output end of the high-energy accelerating tube to precisely position the high-energy accelerating tube and the beam module base, so as to be disposed opposite to the collimating mounting base. The V-shaped collimating unit is disposed at the other end of the collimating mounting base opposite to the beam module base. This allows charged ions accelerated by the high-energy accelerating tube to be accurately emitted after collimation.

[0093] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG7, a second mounting surface is formed by one side surface of the first mounting plate 151 and the second mounting plate 152 being coplanar, and the beam assembly 3 is disposed on the second mounting surface. For example, in the example shown in FIG7, the second mounting surface may be located on the right side of the first mounting plate 151 and the second mounting plate 152.

[0094] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG7, the first mounting plate 151 and / or the second mounting plate 152 are configured in a generally fan-shaped structure.

[0095] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG7, a different number of beam modules 30 are provided on the first mounting plate 151 and the second mounting plate 152.

[0096] In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in FIG7, a first mounting plate 151 is disposed at the upper end of the rotatable component 11, and a second mounting plate 152 is disposed at the lower end of the rotatable component 11. The two mounting plates are coplanarly disposed in the plane formed by the y-direction and the z-direction as shown in FIG7. Specifically, the first mounting plate 151 and the second mounting plate 152 include, but are not limited to, plate-like structures configured in a generally fan-shaped manner. Further, both the first mounting plate 151 and the second mounting plate 152 are provided with a plurality of mounting holes 153 spaced apart along the extension direction of the arc. Each mounting hole 153 corresponds to a beam module 30, suitable for accurately positioning the beam module 30 circumferentially on the mounting plate.

[0097] In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in FIG7, the arc of the arc structure formed by the first mounting plate 151 is configured to be greater than the arc of the arc structure formed by the second mounting plate 152. Specifically, the number of mounting holes provided on the first mounting plate 151 is also configured to be greater than the number of through holes provided on the second mounting plate 152. For example, three through holes may be provided on the first mounting plate 151 and two through holes may be provided on the second mounting plate 152, so that more beam modules 30 are mounted on the first mounting plate 151 along the circumference of the rotatable assembly 11 than on the second mounting plate 152.

[0098] In some exemplary embodiments, as shown in FIG7, the first mounting plate 151 is provided with, but is not limited to, three beam modules 30. Further, the second mounting plate 152 is provided with, but is not limited to, two beam modules 30. The beams output by each beam module 30 are converged on the axis of the rotatable assembly 11. It should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0099] For example, according to another embodiment of this disclosure, the same number of beam modules 30 are provided on the first mounting plate 151 and the second mounting plate 152.

[0100] For example, the beam module 30 may be provided on only the first mounting plate 151 or the second mounting plate 152, while the other mounting plate is provided with a counterweight.

[0101] According to embodiments of this disclosure, as shown in Figures 1 and 7, the support assembly 13 includes a base 132 and two legs 131. The base 132 is configured as a pry-type structure. The two legs 131 are disposed at opposite ends of the base 132, and a rotatable assembly 11 is rotatably disposed between the two legs 131.

[0102] In some exemplary embodiments, the base 132 includes a crossbeam and a longitudinal beam, which are sequentially connected to form a skid-like structure. Further, two legs 131 are mounted opposite each other on the two crossbeams or longitudinal beams. Even further, the first end 111 and the second end 112 of the rotatable assembly 11 are rotatably mounted on the legs 131. To ensure smooth rotation of the rotatable assembly 11 relative to the legs 131, a bearing can be arranged between the rotatable assembly 11 and the legs 131. Additionally, to facilitate the transport of the frame and radiation device, a lifting ring 133 can be provided on the base 132.

[0103] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, a drive assembly 17 may also be provided on the frame 1. The drive assembly 17 is adapted to drive the rotatable assembly 11 to rotate about an axis.

[0104] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG7, the drive assembly 17 includes a ring gear 171 and a drive unit 172. The ring gear 171 is coaxially disposed on the outer wall of the first end of the rotatable assembly 11. The drive unit 172 and the ring gear 171 are connected in a transmission manner and are adapted to output torque to the ring gear 171.

[0105] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, a braking assembly may also be provided on the frame 1, which is adapted to limit further rotation of the rotatable assembly 11.

[0106] In some exemplary embodiments, the drive unit 172 may include a motor, a coupling, and a reducer, and the braking assembly includes an electromagnetic brake. The output shaft of the motor is connected to the electromagnetic brake and the reducer via the coupling. The output end of the reducer is connected to a pinion mounted on the support leg 131 via a synchronous belt. This pinion meshes with a ring gear 171 mounted on the rotatable assembly 11 to drive the rotatable assembly 11 to rotate around axis AX1. The synchronous belt is also equipped with a tensioning device to maintain stability during the drive process. Furthermore, compared to chain drive, synchronous belt drive reduces noise and improves transmission efficiency to meet the design requirements of the radiation device.

[0107] Furthermore, the frame 10 may also be equipped with a proximity switch, which is communicatively connected to an electromagnetic brake to actively brake the rotatable component 11 when the rotatable component 11 rotates beyond a preset angle. The preset angle includes, but is not limited to, ±180°.

[0108] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown in FIG7, a detection component 18 is further provided on the frame 1. The detection component 18 is adapted to detect the rotational speed and / or circumferential position of the rotatable component 11.

[0109] In some exemplary embodiments, the detection component 18 includes, but is not limited to, an encoder. Specifically, the encoder is mounted on a support leg 131. Furthermore, the outer wall of the rotatable component 11 is also provided with a code disk suitable for detection by the support leg 131 to detect the rotation angle of the rotatable component 11 in real time.

[0110] In the process of realizing the inventive concept disclosed herein, the inventors discovered through research that how to perform ultra-high dose rate radiation at a designated location from multiple angles within a short period of time (e.g., within hundreds of milliseconds) is a problem that urgently needs to be solved.

[0111] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a calibration apparatus for an ultra-high dose rate radiation device is provided, the ultra-high dose rate radiation device including a plurality of beam modules for emitting multiple radiation beams, the calibration apparatus including: a calibration target assembly including a target portion, wherein the target portion is located in a predetermined radiation region of the ultra-high dose rate radiation device during calibration; wherein the target portion is used as a reference to calibrate the intersection deviation of the multiple radiation beams converging in the predetermined radiation region.

[0112] In some exemplary embodiments, by providing a calibration target assembly, the target portion of which is used as a reference, the convergence deviation of the multiple radiation beams converging in the predetermined radiation region is calibrated, enabling the multiple radiation beams to converge in the predetermined radiation region with the convergence deviation meeting the expected requirements. This allows multiple calibrated beam modules to deliver ultra-high dose rate radiation to the same designated location from multiple angles.

[0113] Figure 8 schematically illustrates a structural diagram of a calibration target assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8(a) is a front view of the calibration target assembly, and Figure 8(b) is a side view of the calibration target assembly.

[0114] Figure 3 shows a schematic location of the calibration device. Referring to Figure 3, the calibration device may be located within the rotatable assembly 11. In some embodiments, the calibration device may include a calibration target assembly 20. The calibration target assembly 20 includes a target portion, which is located within a predetermined radiation region of the radiation device 100 during calibration; wherein the target portion is used as a reference to calibrate the convergence deviation of multiple radiation beams converging in the predetermined radiation region.

[0115] For example, the beam module may include an electron linear accelerator. The radiation beam may include an X-ray beam. The predetermined radiation area may be an area within the radiation device 100 that allows for radiotherapy, such as a rotatable assembly 11 with a receiving space that can accommodate the target object to be radiotherapy. The predetermined radiation area may also be a fixed area within the receiving space, such as when the lesion of a patient being radiotherapy is placed in that fixed area before receiving radiotherapy.

[0116] In some embodiments, the radiation device 100 may include one or more predetermined radiation areas. In the case where the radiation device 100 includes multiple predetermined radiation areas, multiple calibration devices may be provided to provide calibration functions simultaneously or asynchronously, or a single calibration device may be provided to provide calibration functions by changing its position among multiple predetermined radiation areas.

[0117] In some embodiments, the beam emission positions of each of the multiple beam modules are approximately equidistant from the target. This is beneficial for ensuring that the radiation effect of each beam module on the radiotherapy area is essentially consistent, and also for improving calibration accuracy.

[0118] For example, the rotatable component 11 can rotate around its rotation axis AX1, thereby driving the first beam module 301, the second beam module 302, the third beam module 303, the fourth beam module 304, and the fifth beam module 305 to rotate. For instance, during calibration, the center of the target is located on the rotation axis AX1 of the rotatable component 11. Thus, during rotation, the rotatable component 11 can rotate around a predetermined radiation area. By switching between different beam modules during rotation, radiation can be delivered to the same predetermined radiation area (e.g., a lesion) from different angles, where each beam module emits a radiation beam capable of achieving an ultra-high dose rate radiation effect. Multiple beam modules can emit beams in sequence and relative to the predetermined radiation area, or in a randomized order. Even when necessary, simultaneous beam emission can be used for treatment.

[0119] By setting multiple beam modules at different angles on a rotatable component 11 and switching between the beam modules that generate rays, the goal of rapidly performing multi-angle irradiation treatment within a very short time, as required in flash radiotherapy, can be achieved. That is, after calibration, through the cooperation of the rotatable component 11 and multiple beam modules, ultra-high dose rate irradiation of a predetermined radiation area can be achieved at multiple angles.

[0120] For example, using the target as a reference means that by simulating the output of multiple beam modules, the simulated radiation beam can be used as a reference to guide the simulated radiation beam to hit the predetermined radiation area, or by having multiple beam modules actually output beams, the target can be used as a reference to guide multiple actual output beams to hit the predetermined radiation area.

[0121] Whether the target is struck by a simulated radiation beam or by an actual emitted beam, the convergence of multiple radiation beams within a predetermined radiation area can be characterized using either visual or non-visual methods. Non-visual methods can include data processing techniques such as signal detection or dose measurement. Visual or non-visual characterization allows for the calibration of convergence deviations of multiple radiation beams within the predetermined radiation area. These convergence deviations include the distance between the impact point of any one radiation beam within the predetermined radiation area and a specific location, or the distance between the impact points of any two radiation beams within the predetermined radiation area.

[0122] In some embodiments, using the target as a reference to calibrate the convergence deviation of multiple beam modules converging in a predetermined radiation region includes at least one of the following: simulating the output of multiple beam modules using multiple visible light beams, simulating multiple radiation beams hitting the target, and manually testing or identifying the impact position and convergence deviation of the multiple visible light beams through visualization; actually outputting multiple beam modules, detecting the dose of the radiation beam in the predetermined radiation region using dose detection, and calibrating the convergence deviation by the difference between the radiation beam doses; actually outputting multiple beam modules, detecting the radiation signal of the radiation beam in the predetermined radiation region using radiation signal detection, and calibrating the convergence deviation by characterization of radiation energy, radiation quantity, or radiation scan images.

[0123] It is understandable that the above-mentioned methods of simulating multiple beam modules for beam output, dose detection, and X-ray signal detection can be used selectively or sequentially.

[0124] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a calibration target assembly 20 is provided, which uses its target portion as a reference to calibrate the convergence deviation of multiple radiation beams converging in a predetermined radiation region, enabling the multiple radiation beams to converge in the predetermined radiation region with the convergence deviation meeting expected requirements. This allows multiple calibrated beam modules to deliver ultra-high dose rate radiation to the same designated location from multiple angles.

[0125] The following describes various embodiments of a target used as a reference to calibrate the convergence deviation of multiple beam modules converging in a predetermined radiation region.

[0126] In some embodiments, the calibration device further includes multiple laser components. These multiple laser components are installed one-to-one at the respective beam emission positions of the multiple beam modules; wherein, the multiple laser components are used to emit multiple laser beams to the target to simulate the intersection position of multiple radiation beams converging in a predetermined radiation region.

[0127] Each laser component is installed at the beam emission position of its corresponding beam module, with its mounting axis coinciding with the beam axis of the corresponding beam module, for adjustment and positioning during installation. The laser components can be removed after calibration.

[0128] For example, the convergence point includes the area where multiple laser beams converge on the target, encompassing one or more points hit by each laser beam. The convergence deviation between the laser beams can be reflected by the distance between these points, or the distance between each laser beam's point and the target point. When the convergence deviation is unacceptable, one or more of the beam module's angle, height, position, collimation parameters, etc., can be adjusted, and then multiple laser components can be reused to emit multiple laser beams to the target.

[0129] According to embodiments of this disclosure, by providing a laser component to simulate the emission of multiple radiation beams, the intersection deviation can be efficiently measured in a low-cost and visual manner, and it is possible to quickly determine whether the intersection position meets the conditions and then determine whether the beam module needs to be adjusted.

[0130] For example, the target may include a structure such as a plane mirror, a multifaceted mirror, a plate, a cube, or a sphere that can visualize the point of impact of each laser beam.

[0131] For example, if the target includes a single plane mirror or plate, a target point can be marked on it. First, the laser component corresponding to the first beam module 301 is moved to a specific position and emits a laser towards the target, recording the position of the impact point. Then, by rotating the rotatable component 11, each of the remaining beam modules is sequentially moved to the same position, and the corresponding laser component emits a laser, recording the position of the impact point. After obtaining the impact point positions of all laser components, the distance between each impact point and the target point, as well as the distance between the impact points, can be calculated.

[0132] For example, when the target includes a multifaceted mirror, it can include a prism structure formed by multiple planar mirrors. Multiple laser components simultaneously emit lasers towards the multifaceted mirror to simulate the simultaneous output of multiple beam modules. The intersection deviation is measured by the impact points of each laser beam as presented by the multifaceted mirror.

[0133] For example, when the target includes a cube, it can be a cube, cuboid, or other polyhedron. Multiple laser components simultaneously emit lasers towards the cube to simulate the simultaneous output of multiple beam modules. The intersection deviation is measured by the impact points of each laser beam as perceived by the cube.

[0134] For example, in the case where the target includes a sphere 201, the explanation will be further elaborated below.

[0135] In some embodiments, during calibration, the center of the sphere 201 is located on the rotation axis AX1 of the rotatable assembly 11.

[0136] The rotatable component 11 can rotate about its axis of rotation AX1, and during rotation, it can rotate around a predetermined radiation area. Ideally, the rotatable component 11 always rotates around the same treatment center, and multiple beam modules are not calibrated during this process. The same treatment center can be the center location of the predetermined radiation area, which can be simulated by the center of a sphere. The sphere 201 can occupy part or all of the predetermined radiation area.

[0137] According to embodiments of this disclosure, by positioning the center of the ball on the rotation axis AX1, the actual radiotherapy scenario can be simulated, improving calibration accuracy, reducing data deviation, and maintaining the accuracy and consistency between the calibration process and the actual radiotherapy process.

[0138] In some embodiments, the sphere 201 is decorated with interwoven meridians and parallels, wherein the meridians and parallels are used to characterize the intersection deviation between any two laser beams in a multi-beam laser array.

[0139] The meridians and parallels on sphere 201 can serve as a reference grid for detecting and adjusting the alignment of the laser beams. For example, if two laser beams are supposed to intersect at a point on sphere 201, but actually appear to intersect at different points on the grid, this discrepancy can be corrected by adjusting the position or angle of the laser emitter.

[0140] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the meridians and parallels provide a visual framework for accurately measuring the intersection deviation of each laser beam and visually simulating the intersection location.

[0141] In some embodiments, multiple beam modules are arranged in a ring around the rotatable assembly 11, and a sphere 201 is used as a reference to guide multiple laser beams to converge on the surface of the sphere. Furthermore, the impact points of the multiple laser beams on the sphere 201 can be guided to be located at the same circular cross-section.

[0142] Multiple beam modules are evenly distributed around the rotatable component 11, capable of emitting radiation beams simultaneously or asynchronously from different angles. Through calibration, the impact points of all laser beams on the sphere 201 are aligned with the sphere 201, allowing for the achievement of the desired convergence point during actual radiotherapy by emitting multiple radiation beams. Maintaining a common circular cross-section facilitates closer impact points, thereby achieving ultra-high dose rate flash therapy.

[0143] In some embodiments, the radius of the sphere 201 is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold, and the center of the sphere 201 coincides with the target point in the predetermined radiation region, wherein the predetermined threshold is used to constrain the error between the hit position of any laser beam and the target radiotherapy position.

[0144] By controlling the radius and center position of sphere 201, the illumination range of the laser beam can be controlled. Specifically, when any laser beam can illuminate sphere 201, the distance between its impact point and the center of the sphere equals a predetermined threshold, thus less than an error value equal to the predetermined threshold. When the predetermined threshold is less than or equal to the predetermined error value, it can be quickly and visually identified which laser beams meet the intersection deviation because they illuminate sphere 201, and which laser beams do not meet the intersection deviation because they do not illuminate sphere 201. This allows for adjustment of the beam modules corresponding to the laser beams that do not meet the intersection deviation.

[0145] For example, a predetermined threshold or predetermined error value can be determined based on the size of the lesion to be irradiated.

[0146] Therefore, by using sphere 201, multiple beam modules (such as multiple linear accelerators) can be converged in geometric space, and the error between each radiation beam and the intersection point is less than a predetermined error value, such as ±5mm, thereby achieving ultra-high dose irradiation at the specified lesion location.

[0147] For example, the sphere 201 can be made of plastic, iron, lead or stainless steel, and its diameter can be 10mm (for example only). The coaxiality error between the center of the sphere and the rotation axis AX1 is ≤0.2mm. The machining error is guaranteed by precision machining of CNC machine tools.

[0148] As shown in Figure 8, the calibration target assembly 20 also includes a support frame. The support frame includes: a support base 202, which is installed on the inner wall of the rotatable assembly 11, and the curvature of the bottom surface of the support base 202 matches the curvature of the installation area on the inner wall of the rotatable assembly 11; and a connector 203, the first end of which is connected to the support base 202 and the second end of which is connected to the sphere 201.

[0149] The bottom surface of the support base 202 serves as the component mounting surface, which fits (i.e., the curvature matches) with the inner curved surface of the rotatable component 11, making it easy to install on the inner circle (inner arc surface) of the rotatable component 11. The inner circle mounting position is precision machined, and the machining error is guaranteed by CNC machine tool precision machining.

[0150] The following further explains how multiple beam modules actually output beams, and how dose detection is used to detect the dose of the radiation beam in a predetermined radiation area. The difference between the radiation beam doses is used to calibrate the intersection deviation.

[0151] In some embodiments, the target includes at least one dose detection module for detecting the first actual dose of the radiation beam emitted by each beam module; wherein the difference between the first actual dose and the first theoretical dose of the radiation beam emitted by each beam module is used to characterize the intersection deviation.

[0152] It is understandable that when multiple beam modules can converge within a predetermined radiation area, and the convergence deviation is less than a certain value, the dose of the radiation beam emitted by each beam module within the predetermined radiation area can be estimated, known as the first theoretical dose. Therefore, the difference between the actual measured dose and the theoretical dose can reflect the convergence deviation. For example, it can be estimated that there is a certain deviation in the distance between the radiation beam emitted by each beam module and the target point.

[0153] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a precise comparison between the actual dose and the theoretical dose of the radiation beam emitted by each beam module can be achieved, thereby effectively characterizing the intersection deviation, which can improve calibration efficiency and reliability, as well as improve the dose accuracy and consistency of radiotherapy.

[0154] In some embodiments, at least one dose detection module includes at least one dosimeter for detecting the first actual dose of the radiation beam emitted by each beam module.

[0155] A dosimeter is a device used to measure the dose of radiation (such as X-rays and gamma rays). For example, it can be based on a radiation-sensitive detector to measure radiation intensity. When radiation particles in the environment pass through the detector, they react with the radiation-sensitive medium, are collected by the detector, and converted into an electrical signal. This electrical signal is then further processed to calculate the radiation dose.

[0156] For example, at least one dosimeter may include a single dosimeter with a fixed angle for its radiation detection area. By rotating the rotatable component 11, each beam module is rotated sequentially to the same angle, emitting a radiation beam to the radiation detection area of ​​the dosimeter, which serves as the target, thereby achieving dose detection of multiple radiation beams.

[0157] In some embodiments, at least one dosimeter includes multiple dosimeters, multiple beam modules are arranged in a ring around the rotatable component 11 of the radiation device 100, and multiple radiation detection areas of the multiple dosimeters are arranged in a ring to correspond one-to-one with multiple beam emission positions of the multiple beam modules; wherein, the multiple dosimeters are used to detect the first actual dose of each of the multiple radiation beams in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0158] For example, a radiation detection zone is used to measure the radiation dose passing through the zone in response to radiation. Multiple dosimeters are independent dose detection devices.

[0159] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the dose of each beam module can be accurately measured, thereby enabling accurate assessment of the intersection deviation between each beam module and the target point or other beam modules.

[0160] In some embodiments, at least one dose detection module includes: at least one ionization chamber for detecting a second actual dose of the radiation beam emitted by each beam module; wherein the difference between the second actual dose and the first theoretical dose of the radiation beam emitted by each beam module is used to characterize the intersection deviation.

[0161] An ionization chamber contains a cavity filled with an inert gas and two electrodes, positive and negative. When radiation is incident on the chamber, it causes the gas inside to ionize. Under the influence of an electric field, electrons move towards the anode, and positive ions move towards the cathode. The electrons collected at the anode form a current in the circuit, which is recorded, thereby measuring the radiation dose.

[0162] For example, at least one ionization chamber may include a single ionization chamber with a fixed angle for its radiation detection area. By rotating the rotatable component 11, each beam module is rotated sequentially to the same angle, and a radiation beam is emitted to the radiation detection area of ​​the ionization chamber, which serves as the target, thereby realizing dose detection of multiple radiation beams.

[0163] In some embodiments, at least one ionization chamber includes multiple ionization chambers, multiple beam modules are arranged in a ring around the rotatable component 11 of the radiation device 100, and multiple ray incident angles of the multiple ionization chambers correspond one-to-one with multiple beam emission positions of the multiple beam modules to receive multiple radiation beams one-to-one; wherein, the multiple ionization chambers are used to detect the second actual dose of each radiation beam in the multiple radiation beams one-to-one.

[0164] Figure 9 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of the rotatable component and calibration target assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 10 schematically shows a top view of the rotatable component and calibration target assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 11 schematically shows a zero-position installation diagram according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The zero-position installation is the initial state of the beam module installation.

[0165] Referring to Figures 1 to 11, the installation and calibration process of the beam module of the radiation device 100 is described below.

[0166] With the rotatable assembly 11 installed, the first beam module 301, the second beam module 302, and the third beam module 303 are mounted on the upper first mounting plate 151 on the work platform, and the fourth beam module 304 and the fifth beam module 305 are mounted on the lower second mounting plate 152. The upper beam support is lifted with a hoist and connected to the rotatable assembly 11, and after being positioned with fixing pins, it is tightened with screws; then the drive motor roller rotates 180° to connect the lower beam module support to the rotatable assembly 11, and is similarly positioned with pins and tightened, and then the roller is rotated back to the working zero position.

[0167] For example, the first mounting plate 151 and the second mounting plate 152 include mounting holes 153 for mounting the beam module. The mounting surfaces of the first mounting plate 151 and the second mounting plate 152 are coplanar, and the distance error between this surface and one end face of the rotatable component 11 is controlled to be ≤0.2mm. Multiple positioning screws 154 are reserved near the mounting holes 153 to meet the four-way adjustment functions of front-back, left-right, and right-back, which is beneficial for observing the positioning reference and adjusting the beam module during installation.

[0168] To facilitate installation and maintenance, multiple beam modules are modularly designed, which not only shortens the processing cycle but also facilitates compatibility with external interfaces and enhances interchangeability. The first mounting plate 151 or the second mounting plate 152 is made of aluminum and designed as an integrated structure to minimize weight while ensuring support strength and rigidity. The center hole of the accelerator tube mounting flange of the beam module is precision machined, and the tolerance between the center line of this hole and the bottom surface of the mounting plate 15 is controlled to be ≤0.05mm to ensure the consistency of the beam center line height of each module.

[0169] A calibration target assembly 20 is mounted on the rotation axis of the rotatable assembly 11, and its target portion includes a sphere 201. The sphere 201 is made of stainless steel and has a diameter of 10mm. It is mounted on the rotation axis of the rotatable assembly 11, with the center of the sphere coaxial with the rotation axis AX1 by an error ≤0.2mm. The bottom surface of the support frame is curved and fits snugly against the inner wall of the rotatable assembly. Machining errors are ensured by precision machining using a CNC machine tool. The calibration target assembly 20 is adjustable along the rotation axis AX1 of the rotatable assembly 11 in the forward and backward direction, allowing the center of the sphere 201 to coincide with the intersection point of the five radiation beams, thus accommodating the installation and adjustment of the beam module on-site.

[0170] Using the calibration target assembly 20 as the positioning reference, the positions of each beam module are adjusted sequentially by setting the positioning set screws 154 in each mounting hole 153 on the first mounting plate 151 and the second mounting plate 152. This allows the laser beam at the front end of each beam module to be irradiated onto the spherical surface. After observing that multiple laser beams are approximately located at the same circular cross-section (ideally at the center of the sphere), the beam modules are then tightened.

[0171] A sphere 201 is used for calibration, with its center coinciding with the rotation axis AX1 of the rotatable component 11. This sphere 201 serves as a reference target for beam converging of each beam module, and can be used for multi-directional adjustment and positioning of the beam modules, allowing for the sequential installation of multiple beam modules. Ultimately, this achieves beam converging of multiple beam modules distributed in an array.

[0172] Based on the calibration equipment used for the radiation device 100 as described above, a calibration method is also provided, which is further described below.

[0173] Figure 12 schematically illustrates a flowchart of a calibration method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 6, the calibration method provided in this embodiment may include operations S1210 to S1220.

[0174] In operation S1210, during the calibration process, the target of the calibration target assembly 20 is arranged in the predetermined radiation area of ​​the radiation device 100.

[0175] In operation S1220, the target is used as a reference to calibrate the intersection deviation of multiple radiation beams converging in a predetermined radiation area.

[0176] In embodiments of this disclosure, the calibration process, for example, begins with the installation of the individual beam modules and ends when the intersection deviation meets the expected requirements. The expected requirements include, for example, ensuring that multiple laser beams hit the sphere 201, and that the radius of the sphere 201 is less than or equal to a specific error, such as 5 mm.

[0177] In some embodiments, during the calibration process, the center of the target is positioned on the rotation axis AX1 of the rotatable component 11.

[0178] In some embodiments, multiple laser components are controlled to emit multiple laser beams to a target to simulate the intersection of multiple radiation beams at a predetermined radiation region.

[0179] In some embodiments, the target includes a sphere 201, the center of which is located on the rotation axis AX1 of the rotatable assembly 11 during calibration.

[0180] In some embodiments, the intersection deviation between any two laser beams in a plurality of laser beams is characterized by the interlacing meridians and parallels on the sphere 201.

[0181] In some embodiments, using sphere 201 as a reference, multiple laser beams are guided to converge on the surface of the sphere, including guiding multiple laser beams to converge at the same cross-section where the center of the circle is located.

[0182] In some embodiments, at least one dose detection module is used to detect the first actual dose of the radiation beam emitted by each beam module; the difference between the first actual dose and the first theoretical dose of the radiation beam emitted by each beam module is used to characterize the intersection deviation.

[0183] In some embodiments, at least one dose detection module includes at least one dosimeter or at least one ionization chamber.

[0184] In some embodiments, at least one dosimeter includes multiple dosimeters, and the multiple radiation detection areas of the multiple dosimeters are arranged in a ring to correspond one-to-one with the multiple beam emission positions of the multiple beam modules; so that the multiple dosimeters detect the first actual dose of each of the multiple radiation beams in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0185] In some embodiments, at least one ionization chamber includes multiple ionization chambers, and multiple ray incident angles of the multiple ionization chambers correspond one-to-one with multiple beam emission positions of multiple beam modules, so as to receive multiple radiation beams one-to-one; and enable the multiple ionization chambers to detect the second actual dose of each radiation beam in the multiple radiation beams one-to-one.

[0186] In some embodiments, the beam emission positions of each of the multiple beam modules are substantially equal to the distance from the target 130. This is beneficial for ensuring that the radiation effect of each beam module on the radiotherapy area is substantially consistent, and also for improving calibration accuracy.

[0187] For example, the rotatable component 11 may include a roller, a ring (or other shaped fixing ring, such as a hexagonal, triangular, or irregularly shaped fixing ring, etc.). The rotatable component 11 can rotate about its rotation axis AX1, thereby driving the first beam module 301, the second beam module 302, the third beam module 303, the fourth beam module 304, and the fifth beam module 305 to rotate, for example, during calibration, the center of the target is located at the rotation axis AX1 of the rotatable component 11. Thus, during rotation, the rotatable component 11 can rotate around the target 130. During rotation, by switching the beams emitted by different beam modules, radiation can be delivered to the same target 130 (e.g., where a lesion exists) at different angles, where the radiation beam emitted by each beam module can achieve the effect of ultra-high dose radiation. Multiple beam modules can emit beams in sequence and relative to the predetermined radiation area, or they can emit beams in a random order. Even when necessary, beams can be emitted simultaneously for treatment.

[0188] By setting multiple beam modules at different angles on a rotatable component 11 and switching between the beam modules that generate rays, the goal of rapidly performing multi-angle irradiation treatment within a very short time, as required in flash radiotherapy, can be achieved. That is, after calibration, through the cooperation of the rotatable component 11 and multiple beam modules, ultra-high dose irradiation of a predetermined radiation area can be achieved at multiple angles.

[0189] For example, the beam module may include an electron linear accelerator. The radiation beam may include an X-ray beam. For example, the rotatable assembly 11 has a receiving space that can accommodate the target object to be radiotreated. Figure 3 shows a schematic location of the target portion 130, which may be located within the rotatable assembly 11. For example, the lesion of the target object (such as a person) may be located in the target portion 130 and irradiated by one or more radiation beams.

[0190] It should also be noted that the directional terms mentioned in the embodiments, such as "up," "down," "front," "back," "left," and "right," are only for reference in the accompanying drawings and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. Throughout the drawings, the same elements are represented by the same or similar reference numerals. Conventional structures or constructions will be omitted where they may cause confusion in understanding this disclosure.

[0191] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described above. However, these embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Although various embodiments have been described above, this does not mean that the measures in the various embodiments cannot be used advantageously in combination. The scope of this disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Various substitutions and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of this disclosure, and all such substitutions and modifications should fall within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A radiation device, comprising: A rotatable component, the rotatable component being able to rotate about a rotation axis; A beam assembly is disposed on the rotatable component, wherein the beam assembly includes a plurality of beam modules, each beam module being used to emit a radiation beam, and the plurality of beam modules are arranged at intervals along the circumferential direction of the rotatable component. A power distributor is disposed on the rotatable component, wherein the power distributor has multiple power distribution ports, and the multiple power distribution ports are respectively connected to the multiple beam modules. The beam assembly and the power divider are rotatable around the rotation axis along with the rotatable assembly.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The output end of each of the beam modules faces the rotation axis of the rotatable component, and the radiation beams output by each beam module converge on the rotation axis.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The radiation device further includes a pulse transformer disposed on the rotatable component. The pulse transformer is used to convert a DC power supply with a first voltage into a pulse power supply with a second voltage, the second voltage being higher than the first voltage. The pulse transformer is capable of rotating around the rotation axis with the rotatable component.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The radiation device also includes a power source disposed on the rotatable component, the power source being connected to the pulse transformer, the power source being used to generate microwave energy, and the power source being able to rotate around the rotation axis with the rotatable component.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The radiation device further includes a power combiner disposed on the rotatable component. The power combiner is connected to the power source and is used to combine the microwave energy provided by the power source. The power combiner is capable of rotating around the rotation axis with the rotatable component.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The radiation device also includes multiple waveguides, and the multiple power distribution ports are respectively connected to the multiple beam modules through the multiple waveguides. At least two of the multiple waveguides have different waveguide lengths.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The rotatable component includes a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other along the extension direction of the rotation axis; The radiation device further includes a mounting plate disposed on the outer wall of the second end of the rotatable assembly and extending outward along the radial direction of the rotatable assembly; and The beam assembly is mounted on the mounting plate.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The mounting plate includes: a first mounting plate disposed on a first side of the second end; and a second mounting plate disposed on a second side of the second end opposite to the first side. A portion of the plurality of beam modules is disposed on the first mounting plate, and another portion of the plurality of beam modules is disposed on the second mounting plate.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The first mounting plate and the second mounting plate are coplanar on one side to form a second mounting surface, and the plurality of beam modules are disposed on the second mounting surface.

10. The apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, The first mounting plate and the second mounting plate are respectively provided with a plurality of mounting holes, which are used to install the plurality of beam modules respectively and to position the plurality of beam modules on the mounting plate in the circumferential direction.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The radiation device further includes a drive assembly for driving the rotatable assembly to rotate about the rotation axis.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, The rotatable component includes a roller; The drive assembly includes: a ring gear, coaxially disposed on the outer wall of the first end of the roller; and a drive unit, which is connected to the ring gear and is adapted to output torque to the ring gear.

13. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, At least one of the beam modules includes an electron linear accelerator.

14. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The radiation device further includes an adjustment component for adjusting the position of the pulse transformer relative to the power distributor and holding the pulse transformer in a preset position.

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