By Cosylab
Based on our experience with automated test procedures, we develop customised QA systems that verify the correct functioning of all critical treatment subsystems of a radiotherapy machine—including the main control system—before patient treatments begin each day. This includes automated testing using actual or simulated subsystems such as the couch, gantry, beam monitoring devices, and linac, ensuring the system performs safely and accurately in clinical conditions. (Leo Cancer Care, Crawley, UK and HFCIM, Hefei, China). One of the ways we are implementing the concept of digital twins and simulation technologies "at home" in Cosylab is by using it in our testing and development processes. This helps us reduce development cycles by simulating medical device performance in software before progressing to physical prototyping. Cosylab uses digital twins—virtual versions of real devices—to test and tweak products before they're even built. This cuts down on time and costs while making things more reliable. Engineers replicate devices and their communication using simulation tech, catching problems early and improving customer support with tools like predictive maintenance and remote fixes. The digital twin mirrors how a radiotherapy machine works in real-time, letting engineers test different scenarios without expensive physical models. To make this happen, Cosylab relies on FPGAs and PLCs. FPGAs act as fast simulators, copying device behaviour for real-time insights—perfect for testing sensors or processors. PLCs, common in automation, mimic industrial machinery logic, helping engineers check performance and avoid risks before launch. This method spots issues early, saves resources, and meets demanding medical and industry standards. By bringing FPGA and PLC-based simulations into the mix, Cosylab has turned the slow, traditional design into a quick, cost-effective process that gets products to market faster. It's a practical, hands-on way to build better software for radiation therapy devices.
