Irradiation Field Verification Using Virtual Isocenter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiation therapy methods are inefficient in accurately and precisely verifying the irradiation field due to time-consuming manual adjustments and reliance on optical collimation, which limits ergonomic convenience and precision, especially when the patient or tumor is positioned off-center.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a virtual isocenter in conjunction with a projection system, combined with a moveable laser system for real-time verification of the irradiation field, allowing for independent verification of the irradiation field without relying on conventional optical collimation, and enabling ergonomic adjustments for clinical personnel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional optical collimation with a light source and mirror is used for visual verification, then the irradiation field can be verified visually, but the adjustment process becomes very time-consuming and requires frequent manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical optical collimation system (light source, mirror, manual adjustment mechanisms) with an electronic/image-guided verification system. The image guidance system captures images and allows digital verification of the irradiation field position, eliminating the need for manual mechanical adjustments of optical components while maintaining verification accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The verification system is integrated into the treatment machine itself, allowing the system to automatically verify field position through image guidance without requiring external manual intervention. The operator can perform verification directly through the integrated imaging and display system, reducing dependency on separate adjustment procedures.
2Ease of operation
If the light source and mirror are positioned at optimal heights for ergonomic viewing, then clinical personnel can verify the field from different directions, but the installation becomes complex and requires precise positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the physical optical verification system with image-guided verification displayed on electronic screens. This eliminates the need for physically positioning light sources and mirrors at specific ergonomic heights, as the digital display can be viewed from multiple angles without requiring complex mechanical installation arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a visual copy or representation of the irradiation field through imaging (such as fluoroscopic images or portal images) that can be viewed on displays. This allows clinical personnel to verify field position without directly observing the physical light field, simplifying the installation requirements while maintaining verification capability.
3Manufacturing precision
If the patient is positioned at the isocenter for irradiation, then accurate treatment delivery is achieved, but visual verification of the irradiation field becomes difficult without auxiliary devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses image-guided verification to replace the need for physical optical aids when the patient is at the isocenter. The imaging system captures images that display the irradiation field position relative to anatomical landmarks, allowing verification without requiring the patient to be moved away from the treatment position or auxiliary viewing devices to be installed.
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 verification of the irradiation field, allowing for accurate repositioning of the patient and tumor, reducing manual adjustment time and enhancing ergonomic working conditions, while providing real-time control and verification independent of traditional radiation verification systems.
Implementation Method 1
At least one cross laser KL is projected with the aid of a moveable laser system
Implementation Method 2
an x-ray source and an additional x-ray sensitive detector. Aside from projective monitoring of the patient movement, CT imaging may therefore also be operated as a movement control
Data Source
AI summary
A radiation therapy device includes an irradiation field limiting apparatus. The irradiation field limiting apparatus includes a collimator for adjusting the irradiation field, and a verification apparatus for visually verifying the irradiation field. The verification apparatus is configured such that the irradiation field is optically displayed on a patient that is positioned at a distance from the isocenter of the radiation therapy device.