Charged Particle Therapy Control System for Real-Time Tumor Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for accurate, precise, and rapid imaging and treatment of tumors using charged particles in complex room settings within the field of charged particle cancer therapy.
Innovation Solution
A semi-automated control system for cancer therapy that uses a main controller to deliver positively charged particles and simultaneously generate images, with the controller automatically updating the radiation treatment plan based on real-time imaging data, incorporating X-ray imaging and charged particle beam systems for precise tumor targeting and treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional isocenter-based systems are used for tumor imaging and treatment, then mechanical stability is maintained, but mechanical errors and positioning inaccuracies occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the isocenter concept from the mechanical system and replaces it with a data-driven coordinate system based on actual tumor imaging. The treatment planning system uses imaging data to define the target position without relying on mechanical isocenter alignment, thereby eliminating mechanical errors associated with traditional isocenter-based systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical isocenter-based positioning system with an imaging-based coordinate system. Instead of relying on mechanical alignment of the gantry and treatment head to a common isocenter point, the system uses real-time imaging data to determine tumor position and adjusts treatment delivery accordingly, substituting mechanical precision with imaging and computational precision.
2Measurement precision
If real-time imaging updates are implemented during charged particle delivery, then treatment accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the imaging system and treatment delivery system into an integrated workflow. The imaging data acquisition, treatment plan update, and charged particle delivery are coordinated through a unified control system that operates seamlessly during a single treatment session, eliminating the need for separate mechanical repositioning steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary imaging to establish the treatment coordinate system before charged particle delivery begins. Treatment plans are pre-calculated based on imaging data, and the system is prepared to receive real-time imaging updates during delivery, reducing the computational burden during active treatment.
3Measurement precision
If multiple imaging systems are integrated with the charged particle beam system, then imaging precision is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional imaging system that can perform both diagnostic imaging and treatment verification functions. The same imaging hardware is used for initial tumor localization, real-time tracking during treatment, and post-treatment verification, eliminating the need for separate specialized imaging systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a coordinate transformation system that acts as an intermediary between different imaging modalities and the treatment delivery system. This software layer standardizes data from various imaging sources into a common reference frame, simplifying the integration of multiple imaging systems without requiring complex hardware modifications.
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
This approach enables precise and efficient tumor imaging and treatment by continuously updating the treatment plan during the delivery of charged particles, improving the accuracy and speed of the process while reducing mechanical errors associated with traditional isocenter-based systems.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray imaging system configured to deliver an X-ray beam through a region of the body
Implementation Method 2
Proton therapy works by aiming energetic ionizing particles, such as protons accelerated with a particle accelerator, onto a target tumor. These particles damage the DNA of cells
Data Source
AI summary
The invention comprises a method and apparatus for treating a tumor, comprising the steps of: (1) a main controller sequentially delivering charged particles from a synchrotron along a first beam transport line, through a nozzle system, and to the tumor according to a current version of the radiation treatment plan; (2) concurrent with the step of delivering, generating an image of the tumor using an imaging system; (3) the main controller automatically generating an updated version of the radiation treatment plan using the image, the updated version of the radiation treatment plan becoming the current version of the radiation treatment plan; and (4) repeating the steps of: delivering grouped bunches of the charged particles, generating an image of the tumor, and automatically generating the updated or current version of the radiation treatment plan with optional intervening doctor approval.