Beam Transport, Collimation & Multi-Leaf Collimators

Syllabus

# LIN 115 - Beam Transport, Collimation & Multi-Leaf Collimators

**Course Credits:** 3
**Term:** 2
**Program:** Basic Medical Linear Accelerator Service Technician Certificate

## Course Description
This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the beam transport and collimation systems within medical linear accelerators. Students will explore the principles and service procedures for bending magnets, steering and focusing coils, and the target assembly. The curriculum also covers the function and maintenance of flattening filters, dose monitoring ion chambers, and various collimation devices including primary and secondary jaws, and multi-leaf collimators (MLCs). Emphasis is placed on safe and effective service techniques, troubleshooting, and calibration to ensure accurate and reliable radiation delivery for patient treatment. This foundational knowledge is critical for maintaining optimal performance and safety in clinical environments.

## Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
* Explain the operational principles of electron beam bending, steering, and focusing systems in linear accelerators.
* Identify and describe the function of key components in the beam transport system, including the target and flattening filter.
* Analyze the role of ion chambers in dose monitoring and feedback loops.
* Differentiate between primary and secondary collimation systems, including fixed jaws and multi-leaf collimators.
* Perform basic service, calibration, and troubleshooting procedures for beam transport and collimation components.
* Adhere to safety protocols and regulatory guidelines when servicing linear accelerator beam delivery systems.

## Topics by Week
**Week 1:** Introduction to Beam Transport Systems
**Week 2:** Electron Gun and Waveguide Interaction
**Week 3:** Bending Magnet Principles and Components
**Week 4:** Steering and Focusing Coils
**Week 5:** Target and Flattening Filter Assemblies
**Week 6:** Ion Chambers: Principles and Operation
**Week 7:** Primary Collimation and Beam Shaping
**Week 8:** Secondary Collimation and Fixed Jaws
**Week 9:** Multi-Leaf Collimator (MLC) Mechanics
**Week 10:** MLC Control Systems and Calibration
**Week 11:** MLC Leaf Position Verification and Troubleshooting
**Week 12:** Safety Interlocks and Beam Delivery Verification
**Week 13:** Midterm Review and Advanced Troubleshooting Scenarios
**Week 14:** Final Exam Review and Comprehensive System Integration

## Grading
*   **Knowledge Checks:** 15%
*   **Assignments and Labs:** 30%
*   **Quizzes:** 25%
*   **Final Exam:** 30%

## Policies
Students are expected to attend all lectures and actively participate in lab sessions. All assignments must be submitted by the stated deadline. Academic integrity is paramount; plagiarism and cheating will not be tolerated and will result in disciplinary action. Safety protocols must be strictly followed during all lab activities. Accommodations for students with disabilities will be provided in accordance with institutional policy.