Blocker Rotary-Switching Device for X-Ray Dose Distribution

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current linear accelerator systems lack effective means to change the dose and angular distribution of X-rays, limiting their application in radiation imaging and security inspection where varied energy and angular requirements are necessary.

Innovation Solution

A blocker rotary-switching device with multiple blockers of different shapes and materials is installed at the outlet of the accelerating tube, allowing for rotation to adjust the dose distribution by switching blockers to achieve specific target distributions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple blockers of different shapes are used to change dose distribution, then the adaptability and versatility of the system is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedose distribution adjustment capabilityVSAvoidblocker switching mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the dose adjustment function into multiple discrete blockers, each with specific shapes and blocking ratios. These segmented blockers are arranged on a rotary switch, allowing independent selection of different dose distribution patterns through rotation, thereby achieving versatile adjustment without requiring a completely different system for each configuration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rotary switch mechanism serves multiple functions: it holds multiple blockers of different shapes, rotates to select among them, and positions them in the radiation path. This single multi-functional device replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate adjustment mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If a rotary switch with multiple blockers is implemented to adjust dose distribution, then the precision of dose control is improved, but the ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedose distribution precisionVSAvoidblocker selection operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The blockers are pre-configured in specific positions on the rotary switch according to their optimal orientations for achieving desired dose distributions. The system performs preliminary arrangement of blockers before operation, so that during actual use, the operator only needs to rotate to predetermined positions rather than manually adjusting each blocker's orientation, thereby maintaining precision while simplifying operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Manufacturing precision

If blockers of different shapes are used to achieve fine dose distribution control, then the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveblocker shape precisionVSAvoidblocker fabrication difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of requiring perfectly precise blocker shapes, the system uses blockers with slightly simplified geometries that provide sufficient dose distribution control for practical applications. The rotary switch mechanism compensates for minor manufacturing variations through precise rotational positioning, allowing acceptable dose control with easier-to-manufacture blocker components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

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 device enables precise adjustment of dose and angular distribution of X-rays, enhancing the system's applicability by providing consistent dose rate and angle distribution, as demonstrated by simulation and actual measurements.

Implementation Method 1

the power mechanism includes a DC servo motor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20240215146A1Blocker rotary-switching device, control method thereof, and accelerator
Publication Date: 2024.06.27 NUCTECH CO LTD
  • US20240215146A1 patent drawing
  • US20240215146A1 patent drawing
  • US20240215146A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present application relates to a blocker rotary-switching device, a control method thereof and an accelerator, the device including: a plurality of blockers for changing dose distribution of rays output from an accelerating tube of an accelerator, the plurality of blockers including blockers which have different change amounts to the dose distribution; and a rotary switch installed with the plurality of blockers and switching positions where the blockers are installed by rotation so as to locate the blocker at an installation position corresponding to a target dose distribution at an outlet of the accelerating tube. By providing a plurality of blockers and rotatably switching the plurality of blockers, a plurality of dose distributions can be achieved without frequently replacing the blocker.