Universal Phantom Assembly for Radiation Therapy Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiation therapy systems lack a universal verification phantom that can provide end-to-end verification across various imaging modalities and dosimetric analysis, complicating the precise localization and dosimetric accuracy of radiation treatment delivery.
Innovation Solution
A universal phantom assembly that simulates the entire radiation treatment process, including scanning, targeting, planning, and dose delivery, capable of being used with multiple imaging modalities such as CT, MRI, SPECT/PET, and optical surface monitoring systems, to verify isocenter alignment, dosimetric analysis, and image-based positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate verification phantoms are used for different imaging modalities and dosimetric measurements, then each specific verification function can be fulfilled, but the device complexity and number of required phantoms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single verification phantom that can be used across multiple imaging modalities (CT, MRI, SPECT, PET, ultrasound, optical surface monitoring) and for various dosimetric measurements. The phantom incorporates multiple types of targets and markers that are visible to different imaging systems, eliminating the need for separate phantoms for each modality while maintaining verification accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple verification functions into a single integrated phantom assembly. Different target types (geometric targets, density targets, fiducial markers) are combined within one phantom structure, allowing simultaneous verification of image quality, positioning accuracy, and dosimetric parameters across all imaging modalities through a single device
2Adaptability or versatility
If a universal verification phantom is designed to work with all imaging modalities, then versatility is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by incorporating different types of targets with specific properties in different locations within the phantom. Each target is optimized for specific measurement purposes (geometric targets for shape verification, density targets for Hounsford unit accuracy, fiducial markers for positioning), while the overall phantom structure maintains precise manufacturing tolerances to ensure universal compatibility across imaging modalities
Data Source
AI summary
Dosimetrical end-to-end quality assurance devices, systems, and methods for radiation devices using X-ray imaging, optical surface imaging, and electromagnetic navigational systems to position the quality assurance device either absolute or relative in space.