Shared Table Motion Control With Low-Latency Master Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for controlling a table shared by multiple devices, such as imaging and treatment devices, face challenges in achieving precise and dynamic control with low latency, particularly in applications like CT-RT apparatuses where synchronization between imaging and radiation therapy is critical.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a first control sub-system, a second control sub-system, and a master controller that generates and transmits control instructions to a table control sub-system, utilizing high-speed communication interfaces like PCIE and virtual table motion controllers to relay commands with minimal latency, allowing seamless switching between imaging and treatment modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a table is shared by multiple devices with different functionalities, then device integration and coordination are improved, but control latency and switching time between devices increase
Solution Approach 1:
A master controller is introduced as an intermediary between multiple devices and the table control subsystem. The master controller receives control instructions from different devices (imaging device, treatment device), processes them centrally, and transmits unified control signals to the table. This mediator architecture enables seamless device switching and coordination while maintaining low latency through centralized control logic and optimized signal transmission paths.
2Reliability
If control instructions are transmitted through multiple subsystems, then coordination between devices is improved, but communication complexity and latency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into distinct functional modules: multiple device control subsystems (first control subsystem, second control subsystem), a central master controller, and a table control subsystem. Each segment has a specific responsibility - device subsystems generate control instructions, the master controller coordinates and manages switching between devices, and the table control subsystem executes movements. This segmentation improves reliability through modular design while managing complexity by clearly defining interfaces and responsibilities between modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The master controller merges the control functions of multiple devices into a single centralized unit. Instead of having separate control paths for each device that would increase complexity, the master controller consolidates instruction reception, processing, and coordination functions. This merging simplifies the overall system architecture by providing a single point of coordination while maintaining the ability to handle multiple device types and control requirements.
3Speed
If high-speed communication interfaces are used, then control latency is reduced, but system cost and technical requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces traditional mechanical or legacy communication interfaces with high-speed electronic communication interfaces, specifically PCIE (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) connections. This substitution enables control signal transmission with latency of less than 10 microseconds, dramatically improving response speed. The PCIE interface replaces slower serial or parallel communication methods, providing bandwidth and speed advantages while integrating seamlessly with modern computing and control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides systems for controlling movement of a table supporting an object. The system may include: a first control sub-system configured to generate a first control instruction; a second control sub-system configured to generate a second control instruction; a table control sub-system operably coupled to the table; and a master controller configured to receive the first control instruction from the first control sub-system, or the second control instruction from the second control sub-system, generate a third control instruction based on the first control instruction or the second control instruction, and transmit the third control instruction to the table control sub-system. The table control sub-system may be configured to generate a control signal based on the third control instruction, and cause the table to move based on the control signal.