Linear Accelerator Drum Assembly Isocentre Distortion Offset
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Solution Overview
Problem
Linear accelerators face challenges in maintaining isocentric accuracy due to sagging and distortion of support structures, leading to reduced precision in targeting cancer cells and increased damage to healthy tissues, with existing methods failing to adequately address these issues.
Innovation Solution
A drum assembly for linear accelerators featuring front and rear rim members with projections and locating members that offset sagging and distortion, minimizing the isocentre volume and improving accuracy by stabilizing the radiation beam path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If the LINAC is operated for extended periods, then treatment experience and expertise are gained, but mechanical wear and sagging increase causing isocentre distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces dynamic compensation mechanisms that actively adjust the isocentre position during treatment to counteract sagging effects. The system continuously monitors and corrects for mechanical deformation, transforming a static, deteriorating system into a dynamic, self-correcting one that maintains precision throughout its service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback systems that monitor isocentre position and provide real-time corrections. Sensors detect deviations caused by sagging, and control systems automatically adjust component positions to compensate, creating a closed-loop system that maintains accuracy despite mechanical wear over time.
2Weight of moving object
If the arm is designed to be lightweight, then ease of rotation and positioning is improved, but structural stability and resistance to sagging deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs composite material structures in the arm design that combine lightweight materials with high-strength reinforcement. This allows the arm to maintain reduced weight for ease of rotation while incorporating structural elements that resist sagging and maintain isocentre stability during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces counterweight mechanisms that compensate for the arm's weight and prevent sagging. By strategically positioning counterbalancing masses or applying compensatory forces, the system maintains structural stability and isocentre precision without requiring excessive arm weight.
3Manufacturing precision
If mechanical components are tightly fitted to minimize play, then positioning precision is improved, but wear and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces static, tightly-fitted mechanical connections with dynamic compensation mechanisms that accommodate wear through active adjustment. Instead of relying on tight tolerances that deteriorate, the system continuously adapts to maintain precision, reducing the impact of wear and maintenance needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent reduces reliance on purely mechanical tight-fitting connections by introducing sensor-based detection and control systems. These electronic and software-based systems compensate for mechanical play and wear, allowing for looser mechanical tolerances while maintaining positioning precision, thereby reducing wear and maintenance frequency.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a drum assembly for a linear accelerator, the drum assembly comprising a drum having a front face including a front rim and a rear face including a rear rim, one or more support wheels supporting the drum, an arm extending from the front face of the drum and including a beam collimator through which a beam of radiation is emitted to form a radiation isocentre. One or more rear rim members are associated with the rear rim, the rear rim members adapted to substantially offset isocentre distortion due to unintended movement of the drum assembly. The invention also relates to variants thereto and combinations thereof.