Cabinet Irradiator Stage Control for Dose Rate and Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cabinet irradiators lack a system or method to ensure full coverage of a sample while maximizing the dose rate received, as they do not incorporate real-time imaging and automated sample stage manipulation to optimize radiation exposure.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a real-time camera and moveable sample stage, controlled by a computer, captures an image of the sample and adjusts the stage's vertical position relative to the x-ray tube to ensure maximum dose rate and full coverage, using a calibrated look-up table to deliver the prescribed dose.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the sample is placed farther from the x-ray tube, then the coverage area is increased, but the dose rate decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the sample stage moveable vertically. The stage can dynamically adjust its position to move the sample closer to or farther from the x-ray tube output window based on real-time image analysis. This allows the system to optimize the balance between coverage area and dose rate by positioning the sample at the ideal distance for each specific sample configuration.
2Power
If the sample is placed closer to the x-ray tube, then the dose rate is maximized, but the coverage area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using a real-time camera to capture images of the sample and the x-ray beam coverage. The system analyzes these images to determine whether the entire sample is covered by the radiation field. Based on this feedback, the control system automatically adjusts the sample stage position to optimize both coverage and dose rate, eliminating the need for manual trial-and-error positioning.
3Device complexity
If manual positioning is used, then the system complexity is reduced, but the productivity and dose optimization are decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the system to automatically perform positioning optimization without requiring expert operator intervention. The real-time camera captures images, the control system analyzes coverage, and the sample stage automatically adjusts its position. This self-service capability allows operators with minimal training to achieve optimal irradiation conditions, significantly improving productivity while keeping the interface simple and intuitive.
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
Ensures rapid and homogeneous dose delivery to the entire sample by optimizing the sample's proximity to the x-ray source, enhancing safety and efficiency by replacing cesium irradiators with a non-radioisotopic x-ray source.
Implementation Method 1
the radiation originates by an x-ray source
Implementation Method 2
the term refers to ionizing radiation
Implementation Method 3
the closer that the sample is to the exit window of the x-ray source the higher rate of exposure per the inverse-square law
Data Source
AI summary
A cabinet irradiator incorporates an x-ray tube, a moveable sample stage, dosimeter, and a real-time camera. A computing device receives video data from the real-time camera and based on the video data the computing device manipulates the sample stage height vertically in relationship to the sample chamber floor and the output window of the x-ray tube to be able to deliver the maximum dose rate to the entire sample as quickly as possible. A real-time image is captured and the image is correlated to move the sample stage vertically attaining a closer proximity to the exit window of the x-ray tube to attain and maximize dosage received by the sample in the shortest duration of time and operating the system to attain the desired prescribed dose.