Automated Neutron Collimator Assembly for BNCT
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neutron beam collimation systems for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) require manual exchange of collimators, leading to increased treatment times and radiation exposure risks for patients and clinicians due to the lack of automated systems for variable beam size adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A neutron collimator assembly (NCA) with electro-mechanical actuators and an electronic controller enables automatic positioning and orientation of collimators and a beam stop to adjust neutron beam size and direction, incorporating a movable radiation shield for gamma ray shielding and a safety cover for patient protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual exchange of collimators is used, then device complexity is reduced, but treatment time increases and radiation exposure risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated collimator exchange system with electro-mechanical actuators that dynamically replace static manual exchange. The mounting assembly supports multiple collimators that can be automatically positioned into the beam path by motors, transforming the static collimation system into a dynamic one capable of rapid reconfiguration without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service through automated collimator exchange mechanisms. The electro-mechanical actuators and control systems enable the collimation assembly to automatically select, position, and exchange collimators based on treatment requirements without requiring clinician intervention, thereby reducing treatment time and radiation exposure.
2Device complexity
If manual exchange of collimators is used, then device complexity is reduced, but radiation exposure risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated exchange system dynamically adjusts collimator positioning based on treatment stage and requirements. Sensors detect beam status and automatically activate the exchange mechanism only when appropriate, minimizing the time the treatment room is occupied and reducing overall radiation exposure to patients and clinicians.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms through sensors that monitor beam status, collimator position, and treatment progress. This feedback enables the control system to automatically initiate collimator exchange at optimal moments, ensuring safety while minimizing radiation exposure by coordinating exchanges with beam shutdown cycles.
3Adaptability or versatility
If variable beam size adjustment is implemented, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the collimation function into multiple discrete collimators with different aperture sizes, each optimized for specific beam dimensions. The mounting assembly holds several collimators that can be independently exchanged, allowing variable beam size adjustment without requiring a single complex adjustable mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting assembly serves multiple functions: it supports multiple collimators, provides automated positioning, incorporates beam stop positioning, and integrates with the control system. This multi-functional design achieves beam size variability while consolidating complexity into a single integrated assembly rather than multiple separate systems.
4Loss of time
If automated collimator exchange is implemented, then treatment time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the collimator holder, actuators, beam stop positioning mechanism, and control interfaces into a single integrated automated collimator exchange assembly. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components and interfaces that would otherwise need to be coordinated, managing system complexity while achieving rapid automated exchange.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the fixed collimator storage positions and the active beam path. It provides a standardized interface for collimator attachment and detachment, mediating the exchange process through automated actuators that handle the mechanical manipulation, thereby reducing treatment time without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system allows for safe, efficient, and automated adjustment of neutron beam size and direction, reducing treatment times and radiation exposure while ensuring precise delivery of the neutron beam to the patient.
Implementation Method 1
The beam stop can provide gamma ray shielding along the beam axis to ensure safe gamma ray dose rates within a treatment room
Implementation Method 2
The beam stop can provide gamma ray shielding along the beam axis to ensure safe gamma ray dose rates within a treatment room
Implementation Method 3
The MRS can function in unison with the beam stop to provide adequate gamma ray shielding between BNCT treatments
Implementation Method 4
Neutron beam collimators can be configured to receive a neutron beam along a beam axis and attenuate the neutron beam to targeted beam sizes accordingly to their respective aperture size
Implementation Method 5
Neutron beam collimators can be configured to receive a neutron beam along a beam axis and attenuate the neutron beam to targeted beam sizes accordingly to their respective aperture size
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods for collimating a neutron beam to specified deliverable formats having targeted beam diameters and direction are described. Examples of a neutron collimator assembly can include numerous components based on location, function, dimension, and/or constituent material. The components can include, neutron beam collimators, a beam stop, a mounting assembly, electro-mechanical actuators, an electronic controller, a safety interlock system, a moveable radiation shield, a safety cover, and an adjustable patient platform. In addition, examples of variable aperture neutron beam collimators such as nested neutron beam collimators and collimators with a diaphragm iris are described. Materials are also described.