X-ray source interlock apparatus

Abstract

An X-ray source interlock kit includes a probe-based portion integral with an X-ray source in communication with a peripheral-based portion, the interlock kit serving as an interface between an X-ray treatment system and a given class of peripheral devices. Peripheral devices are classified based on their shielding characteristics and whether or not radiation is permitted with the device, and include, for example, a stereotactic frame, a probe adjuster, and a photodiode array. The probe-based portion includes a probe side bushing having two optical source-detector pairs housed therein and interlock electronics, which accomplish signal processing as required. The peripheral-based portion is the form of a peripheral side bushing which is coded with the shielding and radiation information for a given class of peripheral devices. The peripheral side bushing of the interlock kit is mounted to a peripheral device of the appropriate class and the X-ray source incorporating the probe side bushing and the interlock electronics is then positioned against the peripheral side bushing to form the assembled interlock kit. When assembled, the probe side bushing and peripheral side bushing remain substantially in contact. Based on the coding of the peripheral side bushing, an optical path is established for one, both, or none of the optical source detector pairs. The X-ray source then radiates or is prevented from radiating, depending on the number of established optical paths, and satisfaction of other necessary system conditions.