Multiplexed Proton Tomography Imaging Apparatus
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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 multiplexed proton-based imaging apparatus and method that involves simultaneously detecting positively charged particle positions, determining vectors for each particle, generating paths through the patient, and creating images using these paths, along with the use of fiducial markers for precise tumor positioning and treatment, and employing multiple beam energies and detector systems for enhanced imaging and treatment precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple beam energies and detector systems are used for enhanced imaging and treatment precision, then imaging resolution and treatment precision are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple detector systems (scintillation detectors, Cherenkov detectors, and X-ray detectors) into a single integrated imaging apparatus that can simultaneously detect different types of radiation. This merging approach allows the system to achieve enhanced imaging resolution through multiple detection modalities while managing device complexity through unified system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging apparatus is designed with multi-functional capability to perform both imaging and treatment monitoring functions using the same proton beam system. The system can operate in different modes (imaging mode and treatment mode) and uses multiple detector types that can detect various radiation types, providing universal functionality that improves precision without requiring completely separate systems.
2Reliability
If simultaneous imaging and treatment with multiple beam energies are performed, then treatment efficacy is improved, but time for treatment planning and execution increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous operation where imaging and treatment procedures are performed simultaneously or in rapid succession without significant interruption. The system uses the same proton beam for both imaging (at lower energies) and treatment (at higher energies), maintaining continuous useful action rather than requiring separate sequential procedures, thereby improving treatment efficacy while minimizing time loss.
3Measurement precision
If fiducial markers are used for precise tumor positioning, then positioning accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional marker systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces fiducial markers as intermediary objects that facilitate precise tumor positioning. These markers serve as reference points that can be detected by the imaging system, acting as mediators between the imaging apparatus and the tumor target. The markers simplify the positioning problem by providing clear, detectable reference points without requiring complex direct measurement 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 enables enhanced imaging resolution and precise tumor treatment by accurately determining particle paths and positions, reducing mechanical errors, and allowing for simultaneous imaging and treatment with multiple beam energies, thereby improving treatment efficacy and patient outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
a scintillation material positioned at a second position posterior to the patient from the charged particle beam
Implementation Method 2
detecting with the detector system positions of charged particles passing through the scintillation material
Data Source
AI summary
The invention comprises a multiplexed proton tomography imaging apparatus and method of use thereof. In one embodiment, a method for imaging a tumor of a patient comprises the steps of: (1) simultaneously detecting spatially resolved positively charged particle positions passing through each of a set of cross-section planes, where the cross-section planes are both prior to and posterior to the patient along a path of the positively charged particles; (2) determining a prior vector for each of the individual positively charged particles entering a patient using the detected positions; (3) determining a posterior vector for each of the individual positively charged particles exiting the patient using the detected positions; (4) generating a probable path of each positively charged particle through the patient; and (5) generating an image of the patient using the n probable proton paths and optionally a detected residual energy of each proton.