Modular Neutron Beam Shaping for Epithermal BNCT Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional boron neutron capture therapy apparatuses fail to efficiently secure epithermal neutrons, which are clinically effective, leading to suboptimal therapeutic outcomes and increased side effects.
Innovation Solution
A beam shaping device with modular filter modules, comprising moderators and fast neutron filters, is used to adjust neutron energy, allowing selective control and maximization of epithermal neutrons by altering the neutron beam path and energy range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional boron neutron capture therapy apparatus is used, then the apparatus can operate with simple structure, but epithermal neutrons cannot be efficiently secured
Solution Approach 1:
The beam shaping device is divided into multiple filter modules, each containing specific neutron filtering materials. These modular segments can be independently configured and adjusted to optimize epithermal neutron production without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes parameter changes in neutron energy through carefully selected filtering materials and configurations. By adjusting the composition and arrangement of filter materials, the neutron energy spectrum is transformed to maximize epithermal neutron output while managing device complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If filter modules are added to adjust neutron energy, then epithermal neutrons can be maximized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter modules are designed to be movable and adjustable within the beam path. This dynamic configuration allows the system to achieve precise neutron energy control by positioning specific filter modules at optimal locations, reducing the need for a fixed complex structure with all possible filter combinations.
Solution Approach 2:
Each filter module is designed with multi-functionality, capable of serving different filtering purposes depending on its position and configuration. This universal design reduces the total number of specialized components needed, thereby controlling device complexity while maintaining precise energy control capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple filter modules are inserted, then neutron energy can be selectively controlled, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The filtering system is segmented into standardized filter modules that can be independently selected and arranged. This segmentation enables versatile neutron energy selection by combining different module types in various sequences, achieving adaptability without requiring a completely custom-designed complex system for each energy configuration.
4Reliability
If conventional apparatus without filter modules is used, then device structure is simple, but therapeutic effect is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Filter modules serve as intermediary components between the neutron source and the treatment target. These intermediaries transform the raw neutron spectrum into a therapeutically optimized epithermal neutron beam, ensuring reliable therapeutic effect while keeping the overall device configuration manageable through standardized module design.
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 device enhances the therapeutic efficacy of boron neutron capture therapy by increasing the percentage of epithermal neutrons while minimizing side effects, thereby improving treatment outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
an accelerator, and a target to be irradiated with the particle beam accelerated by the accelerator and to generate neutrons
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of filter modules inserted in the space and configured to decrease the energy of the neutron beam
Implementation Method 3
each filter module may include a moderator and a fast neutron filter, and the moderator and the fast neutron filter may be positioned alternately along the traveling path of the neutron beam
Implementation Method 4
a collimator provided at a rear side of the shielding housing, and configured to adjust a region through which the neutron beam passes
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a beam shaping device for a boron neutron capture therapy apparatus and the boron neutron capture therapy apparatus comprising same allowing a user to select the number of filter modules in advance before neutron generation and arrange same. According to the present invention, it is possible to improve a therapeutic effect and minimize side effects during boron neutron capture therapy.