Mobile X-ray Unit with Built-in Dosimetry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile X-ray units lack effective control over the delineation of the X-ray beam and dosimetry, leading to inefficiencies in skin cancer treatment, particularly in the increasing senior population, where precise and non-invasive radiation therapy is required.
Innovation Solution
A mobile X-ray unit with a built-in dosimetry system positioned outside the X-ray beam path, utilizing real-time dosimetry for accurate dose distribution and beam control, combined with visual indicators to ensure precise positioning and beam delineation, enhancing treatment efficacy and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a portable X-ray unit with rotatable filters is used, then filtering characteristics can be changed on demand, but the unit requires additional measures for delivering the X-ray beam towards the filter plane and positioning at distance from the patient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the dosimetry and beam control functions from a separate external device and integrates them directly into the portable X-ray applicator head. This allows the filter rotation and beam delivery functions to be combined in a single integrated unit, reducing the need for additional external beam delivery arrangements and positioning equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple functions (X-ray generation, filter rotation, dosimetry measurement, and beam control) into a single integrated applicator assembly. This combination eliminates the need for separate external dosimetry devices and complex beam delivery systems, simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the X-ray applicator is positioned at distance from the patient's skin, then the filtering device can be arranged transversely, but poor control is available regarding actual delineation between the X-ray beam and treated region
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates a dosimetry system that provides real-time feedback on the actual X-ray beam dose distribution. This feedback mechanism allows for precise monitoring and control of the beam delineation, ensuring accurate definition of the treated region while maintaining the flexible filter arrangement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical positioning and manual beam delineation control with an electronic dosimetry-based control system. This substitution enables more precise and dynamic control of the beam boundaries through electronic feedback rather than relying solely on mechanical positioning accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If dosimetry system is attached outside the unit, then real-time dosimetry can be carried out, but the unit becomes larger and more cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the dosimetry system with the X-ray tube assembly, integrating the measurement functions directly into the applicator head rather than using a separate external device. This integration maintains real-time dosimetry capability while avoiding the additional bulk and weight that would result from an external attached system.
Solution Approach 2:
The dosimetry components are nested within the existing structure of the X-ray applicator assembly. The dosimetry sensors and electronics are incorporated into the applicator housing and beam path structure, allowing the measurement system to be contained within the existing form factor without significant increases in size or weight.
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 solution enables precise and controlled delivery of X-ray beams, improving treatment outcomes by ensuring accurate dose delivery and beam alignment, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and safety of skin cancer treatments.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray tube for emitting an X-ray beam through an exit window for irradiating an object
Implementation Method 2
a built-in dosimetry system adapted to carry out real time dosimetry, wherein the dosimetry system is provided in the X-ray tube outside the path of the X-ray beam
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a mobile X-ray unit (10) comprising a base(2) for accommodating a control unit and a power supply further comprising an articulated displaceable arm (4a) supporting an X-ray applicator(4) having an X-ray tube for emitting an X-ray beam (8a) through an exit window (8) for irradiating an object, the X-ray unit further comprises a built-in dosimetry system (9) adapted to carry out the on-line or real time dosimetry.