Optical Projection System for Radiation Therapy Patient Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for positioning patients during radiation therapy are either inaccurate due to manual marking and high X-ray exposure or time-consuming and expensive, failing to ensure reproducible and precise alignment of radiation fields with the patient's body.
Innovation Solution
A device and method using a projection device to project a geometric figure onto the patient's body, combined with an optical sensor and control system to determine and compare three-dimensional coordinates, ensuring precise alignment with target coordinates for accurate radiation delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If 3D X-ray images are used for patient positioning, then positioning accuracy is improved, but patient radiation dose increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical markers as an intermediary substance that mediates between the positioning requirement and the patient's body. These markers reflect laser light to create visible reference points without requiring additional X-ray exposure, thus resolving the contradiction between achieving accurate positioning and minimizing radiation dose.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a optical copy of the reference marking system by projecting laser lines and patterns onto the patient's skin. This optical copying replaces the need for repeated X-ray imaging, providing continuous visual feedback for positioning while avoiding ionizing radiation.
2Device complexity
If manual marking methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but positioning accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs self-aligning laser projections that automatically create reference markings on the patient's skin without requiring manual intervention. The laser system self-adjusts to project accurate geometric patterns, eliminating the need for operator skill while maintaining high positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical marking operations with an automated optical laser system. Instead of physically drawing on the skin, the system uses laser projection to create precise reference patterns, substituting mechanical action with optical field interaction.
3Loss of information
If multiple laser lines are projected to cover shadowed areas, then measurement completeness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamically movable laser projection systems that can rotate and reposition to illuminate previously shadowed areas. Instead of installing multiple fixed laser systems, the solution uses movable lasers that adapt their position and orientation to ensure complete coverage of all reference points on the patient's body.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser projection system is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as the primary marking device and as a movable inspection tool. The same laser system that creates initial reference markings can be repositioned to verify and supplement markings in shadowed areas, eliminating the need for dedicated secondary laser systems.
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 allows for precise and reproducible patient positioning without the need for manual marking or high X-ray exposure, ensuring accurate radiation delivery and reducing treatment time and costs.
Implementation Method 1
at least one projection device with which a predetermined geometric figure can be projected onto the three-dimensional surface of the patient's body
Implementation Method 2
at least one optical sensor device with which the geometric figure projected onto the surface of the patient's body can be recorded
Data Source
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Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for displaying a geometric figure on the surface of a patient's body located on a support, comprising at least one projection device with which a predetermined geometric figure can be projected onto the three-dimensional surface of the patient's body, at least one control device, and at least one optical sensor device with which the geometric figure projected onto the surface of the patient's body can be detected and the detected data supplied to the control device, wherein the control device is configured to determine the three-dimensional coordinates of the geometric figure projected onto the patient's body from the data detected by the sensor device, and wherein the control device is configured toto compare the determined three-dimensional coordinates of the geometric figure projected onto the patient's body with three-dimensional target coordinates.