Dynamic Water Phantom for Radiotherapy Dose Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiotherapy devices lack an effective method to accurately measure radiation doses and simulate patient movements during irradiation, which can lead to inconsistent tumor targeting and dose distribution.
Innovation Solution
A measuring device comprising a water phantom with a detector and a mechanical device, such as a robotic arm or hexapod, that moves synchronously with the patient's movements during irradiation, allowing for precise simulation of patient movements and improved dose distribution by compensating for tumor shifts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a water phantom is used for dose measurement, then measurement capability is provided, but the ability to simulate patient movement is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the static water phantom into a dynamic system capable of movement. A robotic arm with multiple degrees of freedom is integrated to move the water phantom along x, y, and z axes, enabling simulation of patient movements during irradiation while maintaining dose measurement capabilities
2Adaptability or versatility
If a robotic arm is added to move the water phantom, then patient movement simulation is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by designing the robotic arm to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a positioning system for the water phantom and as a simulation tool for patient movements. The same mechanical structure enables both precise dose measurement positioning and dynamic movement simulation, reducing the need for separate systems
Solution Approach 2:
The control device acts as an intermediary that coordinates between the radiation source, the robotic arm, and the water phantom. It processes detector signals and automatically controls the robotic arm's movement, simplifying the overall system complexity through centralized intelligent control
3Measurement precision
If automatic control is implemented to move the robotic arm based on detector signals, then measurement accuracy is improved, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the feedback principle by using detectors embedded in the water phantom to monitor radiation dose in real-time. The control device receives signals from these detectors and automatically adjusts the robotic arm's position and movement, creating a closed-loop control system that improves measurement accuracy through continuous feedback
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies the self-service principle by enabling the control device to automatically process detector signals and control the robotic arm without manual intervention. The system self-regulates the water phantom's position and movement based on real-time radiation detection, reducing the need for external control input
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
Enables accurate simulation of patient movements and improved dose distribution by simulating the tumor's movement, allowing for better alignment and consistent radiation delivery during radiotherapy.
Implementation Method 1
a water phantom with a detector device, which is formed so as to detect an ionizing radiation
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring device for measuring a radiation dose, and a method for checking a radiotherapy device is disclosed. The measuring device includes a water phantom, a mechanical device designed to move the water phantom, and a control device. The water phantom includes a detector device which is adapted to detect ionizing radiation, and the control device is designed to control the mechanical device in such a manner that it moves the water phantom according to a movement of a patient, which the patient makes during an irradiation with a radiotherapy device.