Light-Collimating Tank for Optical CT Dosimetry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D dosimetry systems for radiation therapy are expensive, labor-intensive, and require extensive training, with telecentric optical scanners being impractical for clinical use due to the need for large volumes of refractive index matching fluid and costly components like telecentric lenses.
Innovation Solution
A solid light-collimating tank with curved incident and exit surfaces acts as a convex lens, eliminating the need for extensive refractive index fluid and expensive telecentric lenses, allowing for end-to-end verification of 3D radiation treatments using a low-cost, efficient optical computed tomography system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If telecentric lenses and fluid tank are used in optical scanning system, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the telecentric lens component from the optical scanning system. Instead of using a telecentric lens to achieve parallel light rays, the invention uses a simplified tank design where the light source and detector are positioned at specific distances from the phantom, eliminating the need for this complex optical component while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The tank in this invention serves multiple functions: it contains the phantom, provides optical pathways for light transmission, and establishes the geometric relationships between light source, phantom, and detector. This multi-functional design replaces the need for separate telecentric lens components
2Measurement precision
If telecentric lenses and fluid tank are used in optical scanning system, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the expensive telecentric lens component from the system. By using a simplified geometric arrangement where the light source and detector are positioned at specific distances (2R and R respectively) from the phantom, the system achieves adequate measurement precision without requiring costly telecentric optics
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive, precision-optical components with simpler, more affordable elements. The tank design uses standard optical components and straightforward geometric positioning, making the system much more cost-effective while still providing comprehensive 3D dosimetry capability
3Reliability
If large volume of refractive index matching fluid is used, then light transmission quality is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for large volumes of refractive index matching fluid. By positioning the light source and detector in specific geometric relationships to the phantom and using appropriate focal lengths, the system achieves reliable light transmission through the phantom without requiring extensive fluid filling
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the optical parameters of the system by adjusting the distances between light source, phantom, and detector, and by selecting appropriate focal lengths for the lenses. This parameter optimization allows for reduced fluid volume while maintaining adequate light transmission quality for tomographic imaging
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
The system provides a cost-effective and accessible method for comprehensive 3D dosimetry, enabling precise end-to-end verification of radiation treatments with reduced operational costs and increased accessibility in clinical settings.
Implementation Method 1
an exit light surface formed on a second side of the transparent substrate that is opposite the first side, the exit light surface being shaped to focus light toward a focal region located outside of the transparent substrate
Data Source
AI summary
An optical computed tomography system for comprehensive end-to-end verification of the delivered dose in phantoms is described. The optical computed tomography system includes a light source that emits light; a detector; and a light-collimating tank arranged between the light source and the detector. The light-collimating tank itself includes a transparent substrate having a recessed region formed therein; an incident light surface formed on the transparent substrate; and an exit light surface formed on the transparent substrate opposite the incident light surface and shaped to focus light toward a focal region located outside of the transparent substrate. In some configurations, the incident light surface is shaped to collimate light impinging on the incident light surface into parallel rays that pass through the tank towards the exit light surface.