Magnetometer-Based Proton Trajectory Reconstruction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current technologies for determining the actual in vivo end point location of charged particle beams during radiotherapy lack accuracy and timeliness, which can result in unintended radiation exposure to healthy tissues.

Innovation Solution

The use of orthogonal detectors, including magnetometers, to measure the magnetic field generated by charged particles and reconstruct their trajectory through the patient, allowing for real-time monitoring and adjustment of radiation therapy delivery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If PET imaging is used to determine tissue activation by radiation particle beam, then in vivo beam end point location can be detected, but the measurement precision is insufficient and the response time is delayed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebeam end point location accuracyVSAvoiddata acquisition time

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces PET imaging (which relies on radioactive decay detection) with a magnetometer-based detection system that measures magnetic field disturbances caused by charged particles. This substitution enables real-time, high-precision detection of beam end point location without the time delays inherent in PET data acquisition

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the detection parameter from measuring tissue activation (PET) to measuring magnetic field strength and direction (magnetometer). This parameter change allows for immediate detection of charged particle trajectories and end point locations, providing both high precision and real-time feedback

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If current imaging technologies are used to monitor charged particle beam delivery, then beam end point location can be assessed, but the reliability is insufficient for real-time treatment adjustment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebeam end point detection reliabilityVSAvoidbeam end point location accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces unreliable PET-based detection with a magnetometer-based system that directly measures the magnetic field generated by moving charged particles. This provides reliable, real-time detection of beam trajectories and end point locations, enabling immediate treatment adjustments

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention implements a real-time feedback system where the magnetometer continuously monitors charged particle positions, and this information is immediately used to adjust beam delivery parameters. This closed-loop feedback ensures high reliability by allowing prompt correction of any deviations from the intended treatment plan

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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 provides accurate and timely detection of charged particle beam end points, enabling precise control of radiation dosage and reducing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.

Implementation Method 1

measure the magnetic field generated by charged particles

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS20240241194A1Particle therapy apparatus for imaging with magnetometers

Publication Date: 2024.07.18 ELEKTA AB

AI summary

Systems and techniques may be used for generating an image using one or more protons. For example, a technique may include detecting, over a time period using two orthogonal two-dimensional detector arrays, a magnetic field corresponding to a proton in motion. The technique may include determining a trajectory of the proton based on the magnetic field over the period of time, and generating a two-dimensional proton image using the trajectory. The two-dimensional proton image may be output for display.