Random Forest Electric Field Approximation for Fast TTFields Planning

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for estimating TTFields intensity distributions are time-consuming and require hours to compute, limiting the evaluation of transducer array locations and potentially resulting in suboptimal optimization for tumor treating fields therapy.

Innovation Solution

A method using machine learning, specifically random forest regression, to quickly estimate electric field strength distribution based on patient imaging data, enabling fast determination of optimal transducer array positions for maximizing TTFields intensity in tumor regions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If finite element methods are used to estimate TTFields intensity distributions, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectric field distribution estimation accuracyVSAvoidcomputation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent pre-computes electric field distributions for multiple transducer array positions using finite element methods before treatment planning. These pre-computed results are stored and used during optimization, eliminating the need for time-consuming real-time calculations while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates simplified computational models that replicate the complex finite element method results. By using pre-computed data and simplified models, the system can quickly evaluate multiple transducer array configurations without repeating full finite element simulations, thus reducing computation time while preserving measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Manufacturing precision

If comprehensive optimization of transducer array locations is performed, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransducer array placement optimizationVSAvoidtreatment planning efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs comprehensive optimization calculations in advance by pre-computing electric field distributions for numerous transducer array positions. During actual treatment planning, these pre-computed results enable rapid evaluation and selection of optimal configurations, achieving both high optimization precision and improved productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements an adaptive optimization approach that dynamically adjusts the level of computational detail based on treatment requirements. For routine cases, simplified models provide quick results, while complex cases can utilize more comprehensive finite element analysis, balancing optimization quality with planning efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12367961B2Methods, systems, and apparatuses for fast approximation of electric field distribution
Publication Date: 2025.07.22 NOVOCURE GMBH
  • US12367961B2 patent drawing
  • US12367961B2 patent drawing
  • US12367961B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods, systems, and apparatuses are described for fast approximation of electric field distribution.