Multi-Axes Imaging Apparatus for Simultaneous Proton Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for accurate, precise, and rapid imaging and treatment of tumors using charged particles in complex room settings within the field of charged particle cancer therapy.
Innovation Solution
A multi-axes/multi-probe type imaging apparatus and method that simultaneously or alternately uses X-rays and positively charged particles for imaging and treatment, employing a system with a rotating X-ray imaging system, a synchrotron, and a nozzle system to deliver charged particles through a patient, allowing for simultaneous detection and imaging of proton paths and residual energies to generate detailed images of tumors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single imaging system is used for tumor imaging, then the device complexity is low, but the imaging precision and treatment accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging systems (X-ray imaging system, proton imaging system, and residual energy detection system) into a single integrated apparatus. The X-ray source and detector are positioned to image the patient, while the proton beam delivery system includes detectors for measuring residual energy of protons after passing through the patient. This merging of multiple imaging modalities enables comprehensive tumor imaging with high precision while maintaining a unified device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: X-ray imaging for anatomical structure visualization, proton beam delivery for tumor treatment, residual energy detection for proton path tracking, and image registration for aligning different imaging modalities. This multi-functionality allows a single device to provide comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities, improving measurement precision without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple imaging systems are used simultaneously, then the imaging precision and treatment accuracy are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple imaging and treatment systems into a single apparatus where the X-ray imaging system, proton beam delivery system, and residual energy detection system work together. The controller coordinates all subsystems to achieve precise tumor targeting. This integration allows the system to achieve high treatment accuracy through combined modalities while managing device complexity through unified control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where residual energy detectors measure the energy of protons after they pass through the patient, providing real-time information about proton path and depth. This feedback is used by the controller to adjust beam delivery parameters and ensure accurate tumor targeting. The image registration system also provides feedback for aligning imaging data with treatment delivery, improving treatment accuracy through continuous monitoring and adjustment.
3Productivity
If imaging and treatment are performed separately, then the device complexity is low, but the treatment efficiency and positioning accuracy are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines imaging and treatment functions within a single integrated apparatus. The X-ray imaging system provides anatomical visualization, the proton beam delivery system provides tumor treatment, and the residual energy detection system provides real-time verification of proton path. All systems are coordinated by a single controller that manages the sequence of imaging and treatment delivery, enabling seamless integration that improves treatment efficiency while managing device complexity through unified control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary imaging actions before treatment delivery. The X-ray imaging system captures anatomical structures and tumor locations in advance, and the image registration system pre-aligns imaging data with the treatment coordinate system. This preliminary preparation enables rapid treatment delivery without requiring complex real-time adjustments during beam delivery, improving treatment efficiency while keeping the control architecture manageable.
4Productivity
If rapid imaging is performed, then the treatment efficiency is improved, but the imaging precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging modalities that operate at different speeds and provide different types of information. The X-ray imaging system provides rapid anatomical overview, while the proton residual energy detection provides precise path verification. By merging these complementary imaging approaches, the system achieves both rapid imaging capability and high precision measurement, as each modality compensates for the limitations of the other.
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 enables enhanced imaging resolution and precise tumor treatment by utilizing the physical interactions of X-rays and charged particles, providing accurate positioning and energy determination of charged particles for effective cancer therapy.
Implementation Method 1
rotating an X-ray imaging system, configured to deliver the X-rays, around both a first rotation axis and the patient; imaging the patient using X-rays from the X-ray imaging system
Implementation Method 2
detecting scintillation induced by the charged particles
Implementation Method 3
a synchrotron, and a nozzle system to deliver charged particles through a patient
Data Source
AI summary
The invention comprises a method and apparatus for imaging a tumor with X-rays while, simultaneously or alternatingly, treating or imaging the tumor with positively charged particles. An X-ray imaging system, such as one or two sets of a cone beam X-ray source coupled to an X-ray detector, is rotatable about a first axis and a patient. The X-ray imaging system is positioned off axis a path of charged particles delivered through an exit port of a nozzle system from a synchrotron and does not block a path of the positively charged particles from the exit nozzle to the patient or an imaging path from the patient to a scintillation detector. Fiducial indicators are used to confirm an unobstructed path of the positively charged particles in a treatment room comprising many movable elements, such as the X-ray imaging system and a patient positioning system/couch.