Modulation Electrode Electron Beam Control for Radiation Therapy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Radiation therapy systems face challenges in adjusting electron beam parameters to meet the diverse requirements of different treatment modes, such as low-energy, medium-energy, and high-energy therapy modes, necessitating a system that can dynamically adjust electron beam characteristics to optimize treatment outcomes.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a cathode, an anode, and a modulation electrode, where the modulation electrode adjusts the potential distribution and magnetic field between the cathode and anode to control the trajectory and profile of the electron beam, allowing for real-time adjustment of transverse parameters like Twiss parameters β and γ, enabling the production of desired electron beams for various treatment modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If different treatment plans require different electron beam parameters, then treatment precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for multiple fixed configurations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetreatment precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing fixed electron beam parameter configurations with dynamically adjustable parameters. The electron beam parameters (such as energy, current, and spatial distribution) can be modified in real-time through control signals to the electron gun and accelerating structures, allowing the system to adapt to different treatment plans without physical reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by enabling continuous adjustment of electron beam characteristics including energy levels, beam current, pulse duration, and spatial profile. These parameter modifications are achieved through electronic control of the electron gun cathode heating, grid voltages, and accelerating field strengths, allowing precise tailoring of beam parameters for each treatment plan.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the system supports multiple operation modes (low-energy, medium-energy, high-energy therapy), then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex mode switching and parameter adjustment

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single electron gun and accelerating structure that can operate across multiple therapy energy modes (low-energy, medium-energy, high-energy). The system achieves multi-functionality through programmable control of beam parameters, allowing one device to perform what previously required multiple specialized devices or complex manual reconfigurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms through treatment plan management systems that automatically determine optimal electron beam parameters based on the selected treatment mode and patient-specific requirements. The system provides automated parameter optimization and monitoring, reducing the operational burden on users while maintaining precise control over beam characteristics for different therapy modes.

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

Enables the production of tailored electron beams that satisfy different operation modes, enhancing the flexibility and effectiveness of radiation therapy by optimizing beam trajectory and profile, thereby improving treatment precision and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a cathode (410), for generating an electron beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermionic emission: Thermionic Emission

Implementation Method 2

a modulation electrode (430), located between the cathode (410) and the anode (420), configured to adjust a profile of the electron beam by controlling a trajectory of the electron beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field control: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 3

controlling a trajectory of the electron beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLorentz force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS11589453B2System and method for radiation therapy
Publication Date: 2023.02.21 SHANGHAI UNITED IMAGING HEALTHCARE
  • US11589453B2 patent drawing
  • US11589453B2 patent drawing
  • US11589453B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for injecting an electron beam to an accelerator are provided. The system may include a cathode, an anode, and a modulation electrode. The cathode, for generating the electron beam, may have a first electrical potential. The anode may have a second electrical potential. The modulation electrode, located between the cathode and the anode, may be configured to adjust at least one parameter of the electron beam. The at least one parameter of the electron beam may include at least one transverse parameter of the electron beam.