Dynamic 3D Beam Modifier for FLASH Radiotherapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-leaf collimators (MLCs) are unable to rapidly change the shape of a radiation beam during FLASH radiation therapy, which delivers a high dose in a short period, limiting the ability to distribute the dose effectively across a target.
Innovation Solution
Dynamic three-dimensional beam modifiers, such as rod-based, block-based, or liquid shielding-based systems, that can be quickly configured to shape the radiation beam by moving rods, arranging blocks, or adjusting liquid metal levels to block or attenuate the beam, allowing for precise dose distribution during each FLASH shot.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If MLC leaves are used to shape the beam, then the beam shape can be dynamically adjusted, but the leaves cannot move fast enough to change the beam shape during a FLASH shot
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-configures multiple beam modifier elements (rods, blocks, or liquid shielding containers) with different shapes and positions before treatment. During FLASH delivery, the system rapidly selects and positions the appropriate pre-configured element, eliminating the need for real-time shaping adjustments and achieving beam shape changes at speeds compatible with FLASH therapy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic beam modifiers that can rapidly change configuration during or between shots. This includes mechanically movable rods and blocks, or liquid metal that can be quickly pumped between storage and beam-modifying positions, enabling the beam shape to be adjusted at speeds sufficient for FLASH therapy while maintaining dose distribution control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a preformed compensator or collimator is used to shape the beam, then the beam topography can be shaped for each patient, but the compensator cannot be changed to accommodate treatment plan changes or patient position changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static, pre-formed compensators with dynamic beam modifiers consisting of movable rods, blocks, or liquid shielding elements. These components can be rapidly reconfigured between shots to accommodate changes in treatment plans or patient positioning, eliminating the time loss associated with replacing entire compensator devices while maintaining full adaptability to treatment requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the beam modifier into multiple independent, movable elements (rods, blocks, or liquid shielding segments) that can be individually positioned and reconfigured. This segmentation allows rapid adaptation to different treatment scenarios by selectively moving only the necessary elements rather than replacing entire compensators, significantly reducing setup time while maintaining treatment plan flexibility.
3Productivity
If MLC leaves are used to distribute dose across the target, then dose distribution can be controlled, but the treatment time is too long for FLASH therapy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-configures beam modifiers with specific shapes and positions that correspond to the desired dose distribution patterns. Before FLASH delivery, the appropriate pre-configured modifier is rapidly positioned in the beam path, enabling the entire dose to be delivered in a single shot with the predetermined distribution pattern, achieving both high productivity and precision without requiring slow, sequential leaf movements.
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
These beam modifiers reduce setup times, improve the accuracy and repeatability of dose delivery, and provide greater flexibility in patient positioning and beam angles, enabling effective dose distribution even during brief radiation exposures.
Implementation Method 1
Elements of the beam modifier include material that can block or attenuate the beam. The elements can be dynamically and quickly configured to form an opening or a transparent area through which a portion of the beam can pass unimpeded, and to present different thicknesses of material to completely block other portions of the beam or attenuate other portions of the beam to different degrees
Data Source
AI summary
A beam modifier shapes the distribution of a dose delivered to a target by a radiation beam emitted from a beam emitter of a radiotherapy device, particularly a beam that delivers a high radiation dose within a single, short period of time (e.g., less than a second). Elements of the beam modifier (e.g., rods) include material that can block or attenuate the beam. The elements can be dynamically and quickly configured to form an opening or transparent area through which a portion of the beam can pass unimpeded and to present different thicknesses of material to block or attenuate other portions of the beam, in this manner shaping the dose distribution at the target while protecting surrounding tissue.