Proton Applicator Yoke and Catch Arm Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current proton beam therapy systems face challenges in precisely targeting tumors while minimizing exposure to surrounding normal tissues, requiring improved apparatus and methods for accurate placement and retention of proton applicators.
Innovation Solution
The development of a proton applicator system comprising a yoke and catch arm mechanism with locking features, a proton applicator mount with rollers and alignment blocks, and a transport cart with interlocks, enabling precise alignment, retention, and efficient transfer of proton applicators within a radiation beam delivery system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a proton applicator is placed across the therapy beam near the patient to control which tissue the proton beam reaches, then the precision of tumor targeting is improved, but the complexity of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The proton applicator is divided into multiple components including a yoke, catch arm, locking feature, retention features, and aperture assembly. Each component serves a specific function in positioning and securing the applicator, allowing for precise tumor targeting while managing overall system complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The catch arm acts as an intermediary mechanism between the yoke and the aperture assembly. It provides a locking feature that interfaces with retention features on the aperture, mediating the connection to ensure precise positioning while simplifying the overall attachment process
2Reliability
If a locking feature and retention features are implemented to secure the aperture and range compensator, then the reliability of applicator positioning is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-securing through the interaction between the locking feature on the catch arm and the retention features on the yoke and aperture. Once the catch arm is positioned, the locking feature automatically engages with the retention features, providing reliable positioning without requiring additional manual intervention or complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex active locking system that requires actuation, the design uses passive retention features that simply need to be engaged. The locking feature on the catch arm interfaces with these retention features in a straightforward manner, inverting the approach from active control to passive engagement for simplified reliable positioning
3Ease of operation
If a catch arm pivotally secured to the yoke is used to retain the device, then the ease of operation for loading and unloading is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The catch arm is pivotally secured to the yoke, allowing it to move dynamically between different positions. This pivotal movement enables easy loading and unloading of the aperture assembly by simply pivoting the catch arm, while the arm remains securely attached to the yoke during operation. The dynamic capability simplifies operation without requiring complete disassembly or complex mounting mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a yoke having a first end and a second end. The yoke is configured to hold a device that includes an aperture and a range compensation structure. A catch arm is pivotally secured to the first end of the yoke. The catch arm includes a locking feature. The locking feature and the second end of the yoke interface, respectively, to a first retention feature and a second retention feature defined by the aperture and the range compensation structure. The locking feature is configured to interface to the first retention feature and the second end of the yoke is configured to interface to the second retention feature.