Multi-Leaf Collimator Leaf Sequencing Using Deep Learning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing radiation treatment plans optimized for multi-leaf collimators are time-consuming and rely on complex, case-specific algorithms, often failing to account for physical restrictions and speed limits, leading to inefficiencies in generating optimal leaf sequences.

Innovation Solution

Employing a deep learning model, such as a neural network, to deduce a leaf sequence for a multi-leaf collimator from a fluence map, facilitating faster and more adjustable optimization of radiation treatment plans.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional optimization processes are used to generate leaf sequences for multi-leaf collimators, then treatment plan quality can be improved, but the process becomes unduly time-consuming and reduces productivity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetreatment plan qualityVSAvoidleaf sequencing speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-calculates and stores optimal leaf sequences during a training phase using traditional optimization methods. During actual treatment planning, these pre-computed sequences are retrieved and applied directly, eliminating the need to perform time-consuming optimization calculations in real-time while maintaining treatment plan quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The invention creates a database of pre-computed leaf sequences that serve as templates or copies of optimized solutions. These stored sequences can be rapidly copied and applied to similar treatment scenarios without re-running the full optimization process, significantly reducing computation time while preserving treatment quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Manufacturing precision

If complex case-specific algorithms are used for leaf sequencing, then optimization accuracy can be improved, but device complexity and difficulty of adjustment increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveleaf sequencing accuracyVSAvoidalgorithm complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs the complex optimization calculations automatically during an initial training phase and stores the results. The runtime system simply retrieves pre-computed sequences without requiring complex real-time calculations, making the system easier to operate and adjust while maintaining accuracy through the pre-stored optimized sequences

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Complex algorithmic work is performed in advance during system initialization and training phases. The results are cached and reused during treatment planning, eliminating the need for complex real-time computations and reducing the operational complexity of the system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP4363052B1Method and apparatus to facilitate generating a leaf sequence for a multi-leaf collimator
Publication Date: 2025.09.03 VARIAN MEDICAL SYSTEMS INC
  • EP4363052B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4363052B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4363052B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

A memory (102) has a fluence map that corresponds to a particular patient stored therein. This memory also has at least one deep learning model stored therein trained to deduce a leaf sequence for a multi-leaf collimator from a fluence map. A control circuit (101) operably coupled to that memory iteratively optimizes a radiation treatment plan to administer therapeutic radiation to that patient by, at least in part, generating a leaf sequence as a function of the at least one deep learning model and the fluence map that corresponds to the patient.