Beam Configuration Reference Guide

Eclipse

P1062877-001-A MARCH 2024

Legal Information
Publication ID
P1062877-001-A

Publication Title
Beam Configuration Reference Guide

Abstract
This document provides reference information and procedures for using the Beam Configuration application, version 18.1.
This publication is the English-language original.

Notice
Information in this publication is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of
Varian.

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© 2001-2024 Varian Medical Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Published in Finland
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Medical Systems, Inc.

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ICD-O codes and terms used by permission of WHO, from:
● International Classification of Diseases for Oncology, Third Edition.
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● International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision (ICD-10).

2 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Medical Device

CAUTION: US Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.

Basic Unique Device Identification

The Basic Unique Device Identification (Basic UDI-DI) for Eclipse is 089947500200107PN.

FDA 21 CFR 820 Quality System Regulations (cGMPs)

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IEC 62083
™
Eclipse Treatment Planning System is IEC 62083 compliant.

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Legal Information 3
Table of Contents

Legal Information ........................................................................................................................................ 2

Introduction ................................................................................................................... 8
Information in This Guide .................................................................................................................. 8
Who Should Read This Guide ........................................................................................................... 8
Visual Cues ....................................................................................................................................... 9
Related Publications .......................................................................................................................... 9

Quick Overview of Beam Data Configuration .......................................................... 11

Beam Configuration Workflows ....................................................................................................... 11
Beam Configuration with Data from w2CAD Files ........................................................................... 11
Beam Configuration with Existing Eclipse Data .............................................................................. 12

Getting Familiar with Beam Configuration ............................................................... 13

Beam Configuration ......................................................................................................................... 13
Data Flow in Beam Configuration .................................................................................................... 13
Starting the Application ................................................................................................................... 14
Start an Application Session .................................................................................................. 14
Select the Treatment Units ..................................................................................................... 14
View Your Departments .................................................................................................................. 15
Beam Configuration Workspaces .................................................................................................... 15
Navigating in the Beam Data and Beam Analysis Workspaces ............................................. 16
Context Window in Beam Configuration ................................................................................. 17
Saving Beam Configuration Data ........................................................................................... 19

Configuration of Beam Data ...................................................................................... 20

Safety Considerations Related to Beam Configuration Changes .................................................... 20
Beam Data and Checksums ............................................................................................................ 20
Resolve an Invalid Checksum ................................................................................................ 21
Beam Data Measurements .............................................................................................................. 22
Defining the Treatment Unit ............................................................................................................ 22
Define Treatment Unit Parameters in Beam Configuration .................................................... 22
Define the File Path of a Parameter ....................................................................................... 23
Adding New Beam Data .................................................................................................................. 23
Add-Ons in Beam Configuration ............................................................................................. 24
Add a Beam Data Container .................................................................................................. 24
Add New Add-Ons .................................................................................................................. 24
Adding Measured Beam Data ......................................................................................................... 25

4 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Import Measured Beam Data ................................................................................................. 26
Import Configured Eclipse Beam Data ................................................................................... 27
Add New Measured Data Manually ........................................................................................ 28
Interpolate the Table Data ............................................................................................................... 29
Generating Configured Beam Data ................................................................................................. 29
Calculate Configured Beam Data for Individual Add-Ons ...................................................... 29
Calculate Configured Beam Data for All Add-Ons in a Therapy Unit ..................................... 30
Verifying Configured Beam Data ..................................................................................................... 30
Verify Configured Beam Data Curves .................................................................................... 31
Editing Configured Beam Data ........................................................................................................ 31
Edit and View Beam Data Curves with the Curve Editor ........................................................ 32
Print Curve Data ..................................................................................................................... 32
Correct the Depth of Dose Maximum Value Manually ........................................................... 32
Configuring Add-on Data ................................................................................................................. 33
Automatic Add-On Matching .................................................................................................. 33
Match and Assign Add-On Data ............................................................................................. 34
Configuring Additional Calculation Parameters for an Add-On ....................................................... 36
Loading Parameter Values from the Database for a Calculation Model ................................ 36
Load All Parameter Values from the Database for a Calculation Model ................................ 36
Load Single Parameters from the Database for a Calculation Model .................................... 36
Assigning Beam Data ...................................................................................................................... 36
Assign Beam Data to a Dose Calculation Model .................................................................... 37
Assign Beam Data to an Optimization Calculation Model ...................................................... 37
Copying Beam Data ........................................................................................................................ 38
Copy Beam Data to a Dose Calculation Model ...................................................................... 38
Copy Beam Data to an Optimization Calculation Model ........................................................ 38
Copy and Paste Individual Beam Data Curves ...................................................................... 39
Beam Data Management ................................................................................................................ 39
Set Configured Beam Data as Modified ................................................................................. 40
Clear Beam Data .................................................................................................................... 40
Delete Beam Data .................................................................................................................. 40
Printing Beam Data Views and Reports .......................................................................................... 40
Print Configured Beam Data Reports ..................................................................................... 41
Print Beam Data Curve Values .............................................................................................. 41
Exporting Beam Data ...................................................................................................................... 42
Curve Data Export Files ......................................................................................................... 42
Beam Data Export Files ......................................................................................................... 42
Export Curve or Beam Data ................................................................................................... 43

Analyzing and Approving Beam Data ....................................................................... 44

Comparing the Configured Beam Data and the Calculated Dose ................................................... 44

Table of Contents 5
 Dose Calculation for Rectangular Fields in Beam Analysis ................................................... 44
Calculations in Beam Analysis ............................................................................................... 44
Define the Dose Calculation Options for Beam Analysis ....................................................... 47
Calculate the Dose for Beam Analysis ................................................................................... 47
Normalize the Depth Dose Comparison for Beam Analysis ................................................... 48
Approving and Unapproving the Configured Beam Data ................................................................ 48
Approve Beam Data ............................................................................................................... 50
Unapprove Beam Data ........................................................................................................... 50

CT Calibration ............................................................................................................. 51
About CT Calibration ....................................................................................................................... 51
About Calibration Protocols .................................................................................................... 51
Converting Image Values to Electron and Mass Densities ............................................................. 53
Modifying the CT Calibration ........................................................................................................... 53
Create a New Calibration Protocol ......................................................................................... 54
Modify a Calibration Protocol ................................................................................................. 55
Remove or Retire a Calibration Protocol ................................................................................ 55
Edit the Calibration Curve ...................................................................................................... 56
Modify the Calibration Curve with the Curve Editor ................................................................ 56

Configuring Distributed Calculation Framework and Calculation Models ............ 58

Distributed Calculation Framework ................................................................................................. 58
Defining the Distributed Calculation Framework Settings ...................................................... 60
Configure the Distributed Calculation Framework Settings .................................................... 65
Configuration Storage Manager ............................................................................................. 65
Manage Configuration Storage Rules .................................................................................... 66
Calculation Algorithms and Calculation Models .............................................................................. 66
Configuring Calculation Models .............................................................................................. 67
Add Calculation Models to the Configuration ......................................................................... 67
Rename Calculation Models .................................................................................................. 69
Change the Version of the Algorithm for a Calculation Model ................................................ 69
Change the Default Calculation Options for a Calculation Model .......................................... 69
Remove Calculation Models from the Configuration .............................................................. 70
Update Calculation Models .................................................................................................... 70
Updating Beam Data Between Versions ................................................................................ 70
Configuring Calculation Defaults ..................................................................................................... 71
Configure Default Calculation Models .................................................................................... 71
Configure Default Calculation Options for an External Beam Plan ........................................ 71

Appendix: Configured Data File System .................................................................. 73

File Hierarchy in Beam Configuration .............................................................................................. 73

6 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Map File in Beam Configuration ...................................................................................................... 75

Index .......................................................................................................................... 78

Table of Contents 7
Introduction

Information in This Guide

This guide contains instructions for using the Beam Configuration application to configure the
™
Eclipse treatment planning system. Reference information and instructions relevant for the
configuration of specific algorithms are found in the algorithm-related reference guides.

Who Should Read This Guide

This guide is written mainly for physicists or any other users responsible for commissioning,
configuring and validating beam data. Beam Configuration should only be used by qualified
medical professionals.
The Eclipse Treatment Planning System (Eclipse TPS) is used to plan radiotherapy treatments
for patients with malignant or benign diseases. Eclipse TPS is used to plan external beam
irradiation with photon, electron and proton beams, as well as for internal irradiation
(brachytherapy) treatments.

WARNING: Beam Configuration should be used only by persons who are

qualified in radiation physics and are familiar with dose measurements.

Note: Before or when using Eclipse, notice the following:

● Ensure that individuals authorized to perform treatment planning functions are
appropriately trained for the functions they perform.
● All treatment plan reports shall be approved by a qualified person before the
information in them is used for radiotherapy treatment purposes.

WARNING: It is the responsibility of the user to ensure the validity and integrity of
the input data, and to understand that the quality of the output depends
critically on the quality of the input. Any irregularities or uncertainties
about input data, units, identification, or quality of any other nature
shall be thoroughly investigated before the data are used.

CAUTION: Do not use the computer operating system to edit or delete any files
used by the treatment planning application except when the use of the
files is detailed and supported in the user documentation of the
manufacturer of the treatment planning system.

NOTICE: Regional Settings in the Windows operating system using commas

as the decimal separator are not recognized by Eclipse. For example,
the entry “1,23” will not be recognized as “1.23”. The decimal point “.”
should always be used regardless of the Regional Settings.

8 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Visual Cues
This publication uses the following visual cues to help you find information:

WARNING: A warning describes actions or conditions that can result in serious

injury or death.

CAUTION: A caution describes hazardous actions or conditions that can result in

minor or moderate injury.

NOTICE: A notice describes actions or conditions that can result in damage to

equipment or loss of data.

Note: A note describes information that may pertain to only some conditions, readers, or
sites.

Tip: A tip describes useful but optional information such as a shortcut, reminder, or
suggestion, to help get optimal performance from the equipment or software.

Related Publications
● Eclipse Photon and Electron Reference Guide: Provides reference information for using the
Eclipse treatment planning system and instructions for tasks performed outside the daily
treatment planning workflow.
● Eclipse Proton Reference Guide: Provides reference information for using the Eclipse
treatment planning system and instructions for tasks performed outside the daily proton
treatment planning workflow.
● Eclipse Photon and Electron Algorithms Reference Guide: Describes algorithms supported in
the Eclipse treatment planning system.
● Eclipse Proton Algorithms Reference Guide: Describes algorithms supported in the Eclipse
treatment planning system for proton planning.
● RT and Imaging Online Help: Describes the functions available in Radiation Oncology
applications and provides instructions for using them.
● Varian Service Portal User Rights Reference Guide: Describes the administration of users,
user groups and user rights for Varian ARIA CORE applications, except for 4D Integrated
Treatment Console.
● Varian Service Portal Administration Reference Guide: Describes the global configuration
and management of the shared system, user, licensing, database, security, maintenance,
and radiation therapy settings for ARIA CORE modules and applications.
● DICOM Import and Export Reference Guide: Contains information on using the DICOM
Import and Export application.
● Varian Cybersecurity Administration Reference Guide: Provides reference information on the
Varian policy regarding installation of third-party products on or with Varian products,
reference information on data backup processes and guidance for Varian system-specific
backups, general security recommendations on ransomware and on securing customer-

Introduction 9
 purchased Varian products, and clarification on the function, purpose, and intent of the
Mission Critical Application Protection (MICAP) configurations.

10 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

Quick Overview of Beam Data Configuration

Beam Configuration Workflows

The general procedure for photon, electron, and proton treatment units is the same. However, the
procedure differs significantly in details of acquisition and configuration.
Before clinical use of beam data, complete the entire configuration procedure. Steps are given
here for using w2CAD files and existing Eclipse beam data for beam configuration.
More information on the calculation algorithms: Eclipse Photon and Electron Algorithms
Reference Guide.

Beam Configuration with Data from w2CAD Files

Step See
Configure the treatment unit and the RT Administration Reference Guide, RT and Imaging On-
add-on materials line Help
Application: RT Administration
Add a new, empty beam data con- Adding New Beam Data on page 23
tainer to the treatment unit
Application: Beam Configuration
Add the required add-ons, match Add-Ons in Beam Configuration on page 24
and assign the add-ons
Configuring Add-on Data on page 33
● Define the required add-ons to
the beam data.
● Match and assign the add-ons
between the beam data and the
treatment unit.
Application: Beam Configuration
Import measured beam data for Adding Measured Beam Data on page 25
each add-on
Application: Beam Configuration
Generate the configured beam data Generating Configured Beam Data on page 29
for each add-on
Application: Beam Configuration

Quick Overview of Beam Data Configuration 11

 Step See
Verify and approve the configured Verifying Configured Beam Data on page 30
beam data
Approving and Unapproving the Configured Beam Data
Application: Beam Configuration, on page 48
Beam Analysis
Analyze and validate the configured Comparing the Configured Beam Data and the Calculated
beam data Dose on page 44
Application: Beam Analysis

Beam Configuration with Existing Eclipse Data

Step See
Configure the treatment unit and the add-on RT Administration Reference Guide, RT and
materials Imaging Online Help
Application: RT Administration
Import the measured beam data for each add- Adding New Beam Data on page 23
on
Application: Beam Configuration
Match and assign the add-ons between the Configuring Add-on Data on page 33
beam data and the treatment unit
Application: Beam Configuration
Verify and approve the configured beam data Verifying Configured Beam Data on page 30
Application: Beam Configuration, Beam Approving and Unapproving the Configured
Analysis Beam Data on page 48
Analyze and validate the configured beam data Comparing the Configured Beam Data and the
Calculated Dose on page 44
Application: Beam Analysis

12 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

Getting Familiar with Beam Configuration

Beam Configuration
Beam Configuration is designed for the entry of measured dosimetric beam data and automatic
generation of beam data files for external treatment planning. Measured beam data can be
imported to Beam Configuration from a water phantom device in the w2CAD file format or the
data can be entered manually. The measured beam data is converted into the format required for
dose calculation. The measured beam data and the configured beam data can be analyzed using
the beam analysis tools. Potential deviations between the measured and calculated data are
shown by means of a differential graph and a statistical report.

WARNING: Beam Configuration should be used only by persons who are

qualified in radiation physics and are familiar with dose measurements.

CAUTION: Be careful that the measured beam data that is used for the
configuration corresponds to the characteristics of the treatment unit.
When modifications are made to the treatment unit, make sure that the
measured beam data still corresponds to the treatment unit.

Note: Full functionality Beam Configuration is restricted to user access right groups
Physicist, Service, System Administrator, and All Rights. Make sure that these user
access rights are not assigned to unauthorized persons. More information on user rights:
Varian Service Portal User Rights Reference Guide.

Beam Configuration supports configuring multiple calculation models and energies of different
modalities and provides integration with the database that contains the treatment machine
definitions.

Data Flow in Beam Configuration

The configuration process starts from creating containers for measured beam data in Beam
Configuration. Next, beam data is imported from a water phantom device into Beam
Configuration. After that the data is matched with the appropriate treatment unit and add-on data
as defined in the database, and saved to the treatment unit directory.
The process then continues with the generation of configured beam data, which is initiated in
Beam Configuration and completed in the Configuration program. The configured beam data
created in the Configuration program is transferred back to Beam Configuration, from which
the data is saved in a separate beam configuration file system under the directory of the
appropriate treatment unit. The measured beam data and the configured beam data can be
analyzed in Beam Configuration using special beam analysis tools.

Getting Familiar with Beam Configuration 13

 Starting the Application
You can run only one Beam Configuration application session at a time on a client platform.
However, you can run Beam Configuration concurrently with other Varian Radiation Oncology
applications.

WARNING: The system uses a central database that allows running the application
on different workstations simultaneously. If multiple simultaneous
users work with the same data, this may lead to situations where
another user has modified and saved the data that you are currently
working with. Therefore, avoid situations with multiple users
concurrently editing the same patient data. If you try to save your
changes, the system will issue a warning message about another user
already editing the same patient. Always carefully verify the
synchronized data, because it may contain changes made by both you
and the other user.

Start an Application Session

● In the Home screen, do one of the following:
● On the Assistant menu bar, choose Worklist and then choose the desired task.
● In the Task list, click a task.
● Choose QuickLinks and then choose the desired application.
● In the Favorites list, click the desired task.

Tip: You can start multiple application sessions from the QuickLinks menu of the
Assistant menu bar. To do this, point at the application name in the menu and then
click the right-pointing arrow shown next to the application name.

Select the Treatment Units

1. After starting Beam Configuration, a list of open sessions is displayed.
To view the latest list, click Update.
2. Click Continue.
3. Choose which treatment units you want to view.
Only the treatment units that have been assigned to the same departments as you are
available.
Use the following options to filter the treatment units:
● Filter the treatment units by their ID.
● Choose which type of treatment units you want to show (photon/electron, proton, or
both).
● Sort the treatment units by ID, hospital, or department.
● Select all treatment units, or clear all selections.

14 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Tip: You can also choose the treatment units from File > Select Treatment Units.

View Your Departments

You can check to which departments you have been assigned in User Preferences available in
the following applications:
● External Beam Planning
● Brachytherapy Planning
● Brachytherapy 2D Entry
● Plan Evaluation
● IRREG Planning
● Selection
● Beam Configuration
● In the application, choose Tools > User Preferences.

Beam Configuration Workspaces

Beam Configuration contains the following workspaces:
● Beam Data workspace, where you can:
● Import measured beam data from water phantom systems that support the w2CAD
format.
● Insert measured data manually (dose rate table, electron field size factors, measured
depth dose, measured profile, curves, algorithm parameters).
● Match and assign beam data to the appropriate add-ons configured for the treatment unit.
● Generate configured beam data from the measured data for dose calculation in external
treatment planning.
● Review and modify beam data.
● Clear and delete beam data.
● Calibrate the monitor units.
● Beam Analysis workspace, where you can analyze the configured beam data by comparing
the calculated depth dose and profile curves with measured curves.
In addition, you can do the following in both workspaces:
● Approve and unapprove beam data.
● Calibrate imaging devices by means of a calibration protocol that contains calibration curves
(each imaging device can be separately calibrated).
● Define the calculation defaults.
● Configure calculation models.
● Configure Distributed Calculation Framework settings.
● Export and print curve data.

Getting Familiar with Beam Configuration 15

 Navigating in the Beam Data and Beam Analysis Workspaces
The Beam Data and Beam Analysis workspaces consists of a menu bar, toolbars, the Context
Window, the Object Window, and Data Windows. The Context Window displays treatment
unit and beam data information in a hierarchical tree structure. The Object Window expands the
data selected in the Context Window, and it is used to select the exact beam data to view in the
Data Windows. The Data Windows show the measured beam data in the appropriate graphical
format.

1
2

3
5

Figure 1 Beam Data Workspace

1. Menu bar
2. Toolbar
3. Context Window
4. Object Window
5. Data Windows

16 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 1
2

Figure 2 Beam Analysis Workspace

1. Menu bar
2. Toolbar
3. Context Window
4. Object Window
5. Data Windows

Context Window in Beam Configuration

The Context Window in Beam Configuration is divided into two parts: the Scope Window and
the Focus Window. The Context Window displays information in a hierarchical tree structure:
the selected treatment unit and energy, the calculation model configured for the energy, as well
as the approval state of the beam data associated with the selected calculation model.

Getting Familiar with Beam Configuration 17

 1

Figure 3 Context Window

1. Scope Window
2. Focus Window
3. Selected object

In the figure, the treatment unit forms the top of the hierarchy. Beneath the treatment unit are
several photon and electron energies each with one or several calculation models configured.
Moreover, beam data objects with an invalid checksum value are shown with a yellow
background in their icon.
The contents of the Focus Window are linked to the object selected in the Scope Window. In
this example, a treatment unit configured for a calculation model is selected in the Scope
Window, and its contents are shown in the Focus Window.

Note: When working in Beam Configuration, notice the following:

● Selecting a calculation model in the Scope Window locks it for other users, who
cannot view or edit the configured beam data of the model. To check whether a
locked calculation model is free for viewing or modifications, click another calculation
model and then re-click the locked model in the Scope Window, or reload the data
from the database (from the File > Reload All).

The approval state of the beam data is indicated by a colored frame around the data icons
displayed in the Context Window. Configured beam data can be in three possible states: Empty,
Approved and Unapproved. The green boxes shown in the figure indicate that the beam data is
approved.
Right-clicking an object in the Context Window opens a shortcut menu used to modify the
selected object. The contents of the shortcut menu depend on the selected item and the currently
displayed tree structure.

Related Topics
Beam Data and Checksums on page 20

18 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Saving Beam Configuration Data
Modifications made to the beam data are held in computer memory until they are explicitly saved
to the database or the beam configuration file system. To permanently commit modifications to
the database or the beam configuration file system, save your work regularly.

NOTICE: Apart from saving your work regularly, create regular backups of your
system to avoid losing important information. The regular backups
should contain patient database including image directories, dosimetric
data, and beam data.

Save Your Beam Configuration Data

● ChooseFile > Save All .

The information is saved to the database or the beam configuration file system.

Getting Familiar with Beam Configuration 19

Configuration of Beam Data

Safety Considerations Related to Beam Configuration Changes

To make sure that changes to the beam configuration are reflected in all Eclipse applications and
plans, take the following precautions.

Note: After making changes to beam data in Beam Configuration, make sure that all
Eclipse applications are restarted to enforce the changes to the beam data that is used in
treatment planning.

CAUTION: Changes to the configuration, including transmission and linear

attenuation values of the dosimetric materials, are not automatically
applied to plans for which the dose has already been calculated.
Recalculate the dose distribution to have the changes reflected in the
dose distribution of a previously calculated plan. This also applies to
transmission and linear attenuation values of the dosimetric materials.

Beam Data and Checksums

All configured beam data used in dose calculation contain checksums to protect the data from
alteration outside Beam Configuration to make sure that the beam data as configured by Beam
Configuration stays intact. The checksum is used in the following situations:
● Configured beam data is read
● Configured beam data is copied
● Configured beam data or add-ons are approved
● Calculation model is selected in the Scope Window
● New calculation model is added
● Calculation model is updated
● Prior to dose calculation in Beam Configuration
If differences are found in the checksums, a notification is issued. Moreover, beam data objects
with an invalid checksum value have a yellow background in their icon in the Focus Window.
The figure shows an example of a situation where approved beam data is selected in the Scope
Window, and there are invalid checksum values for a few beam data objects related to the
selected calculation model.

20 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 1

Figure 4 Invalid Checksum Values in Context Window

1. Parameters
2. Measured Profiles
3. Spectrum

To resolve an invalid checksum and take the affected configured beam data back into use, you
need to unapprove the data, and then verify and revalidate it. In the process of unapproving the
beam data, all data that has dependencies on the affected beam data is deleted, and a message
is shown listing the data to be deleted.

Related Topics
Context Window in Beam Configuration on page 17

Resolve an Invalid Checksum

If differences are found in the checksums, a notification is issued. Beam data objects with an
invalid checksum value are shown in the Focus Window. To resolve an invalid checksum and
take the affected configured beam data back into use, you need to unapprove the data, and then
verify and revalidate it.
1. Unapprove the affected configured beam data (single beam data object, an add-on, or the
entire beam data set).
All data that has dependencies on the affected beam data is deleted. A message is shown
listing the data to be deleted.
2. Verify the configured beam data.
3. If necessary, re-import and re-configure the beam data.
4. Revalidate the affected beam data.
5. Recalculate the beam data.
6. Re-approve the beam data.

Configuration of Beam Data 21

 Beam Data Measurements
You can import measured beam data to Beam Configuration in the w2CAD file format (more
information: Eclipse Photon and Electron Algorithms Reference Guide). Measured dose rate
tables are read from special, comma-separated variable (CSV) files that can be generated with
®
spreadsheet programs, such as Microsoft Excel. It is also possible to enter measured beam data
manually.
Detailed information on the measurements for each calculation model: Eclipse Photon and
Electron Algorithms Reference Guide.

NOTICE: Use the same file naming conventions in beam data measurements
(input files) and in Beam Configuration (Therapy Unit name), and
name the input files so that it is easy to match the beam data to the
treatment unit during the configuration process.

Defining the Treatment Unit

To define a treatment unit for configuring beam data, you first add and configure the treatment
unit, as well as add-ons and add-on materials for the unit, in RT Administration. You then define
the general parameters and the model parameters of the treatment unit in Beam Configuration:
● General parameters define the geometrical and radiation parameters of a treatment unit, as
well as the measurement geometry of the beam data.
● Model parameters are calculation-model specific parameters needed by the configuration
engine.
Beam Configuration reads the geometrical parameters and limitations defined in RT
Administration.
More information on RT Administration: RT Administration Reference Guide.

Define Treatment Unit Parameters in Beam Configuration

1. Part of the treatment unit parameters are read into Beam Configuration from RT
Administration.
Verify that these parameters are correct, and add whatever parameters may be missing.
● If you have modified the values by hand and wish to return to the default values, choose
Beam Data > Parameter Values > Get All Parameters from Database or Get
Parameter from Database.
2. Define the treatment unit parameters required by the calculation model before importing the
measured beam data.
More information on the specific parameters required by each model: Eclipse Photon and
Electron Algorithms Reference Guide.
Verify that the parameters you define correspond to the measured data. If the parameters do
not match, the measured data will not be imported. When typing decimal values, use decimal
points instead of decimal commas (for instance, type “1.5”, not “1,5”).

22 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 If you modify General Parameters or Model Parameters that affect the generated beam
data, the relevant dependent beam data is deleted. The application prompts you to accept
the deletion or cancel the modifications.

Related Topics
Loading Parameter Values from the Database for a Calculation Model on page 36

Define the File Path of a Parameter

1. In General Parameters or Model Parameters, click the cell of the parameter that you wish
to define the file path for.
2. Choose Beam Data > Parameter Values > Browse File Path to Parameter Value.
3. Navigate to the location of the file containing the selected parameter.
4. Select the file and click OK.

Adding New Beam Data

When starting beam data configuration from scratch, you must first create a container for the
beam data in the selected calculation model and then insert the necessary add-ons into the
selected treatment unit.

Figure 5 Empty Beam Data Container in the Focus Window

1. Selected calculation model in the Scope Window for a D-2300CD accelerator.

NOTICE: To detect possible errors occurring when importing measured beam

data, always compare the configured beam data with the measured
beam data.

NOTICE: Use the same file naming conventions in beam data measurements
(input files) and in Beam Configuration (Therapy Unit name), and
name the input files so that it is easy to match the beam data to the
treatment unit during the configuration process.

Configuration of Beam Data 23

 Add-Ons in Beam Configuration
In Beam Configuration, certain accessories, such as the open field, each wedge, electron
applicator, and compensator, are considered an add-on of the treatment unit. The add-ons that
can be created depend on the treatment unit type. The add-ons that must be configured depend
on the calculation algorithm in question. For information on the configuration of each algorithm,
refer to the documentation of the algorithm.

Add a Beam Data Container

1. In the Scope Window, select the calculation model for which you want to assign new
measured beam data.
2. Choose Insert > New Beam Data.
3. In the Insert New Beam Data dialog box, type a descriptive name for the treatment unit in
the Therapy Unit Name text box.
4. Select the Start with empty data option button.
5. Click OK.
If your system has a group or groups of dosimetrically equivalent machines configured
(treatment units with the same or equivalent configuration), after choosing Insert > New
Beam Data, you are prompted to confirm whether you wish to use the beam data from one of
the equivalent machines. You can then select the equivalent machine from which you wish to
use the beam data and move on to matching and assigning the add-on data.

Related Topics
Assigning Beam Data on page 36
Copying Beam Data on page 38

Add New Add-Ons

Note: Beam Configuration considers both open fields and field accessories as add-
ons.

1. In the Focus Window, select the beam data container.

2. Choose Insert > New Add On.
3. In the Add-On Type group box, select the check box of the add-on to be inserted.
The Match list box shows the relevant add-on data found in the database.
4. In the Match list box, select the desired parameters for the add-on.
Continue by matching and assigning the add-ons.

Related Topics
Configuring Add-on Data on page 33

24 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Adding Measured Beam Data
When the treatment unit and energy parameters have been defined, you may import measured
beam data in w2CAD files, or use existing configured Eclipse beam data. You can also add depth
dose and profile data manually. Beam Configuration generates the configured beam data from
the measured beam data.
The relevant measured beam data (such as depth dose, profiles and dose rate table) must be
imported for each add-on that you wish to use in treatment planning. During the import procedure,
you can select the data to import, preview the data curves, and include or exclude curves.

Configuration of Beam Data 25

 Import Measured Beam Data
Note: When importing beam data, note that:
● It is possible to import at most 13 files at a time if using the “Select All” (Ctrl-A)
keyboard shortcut in the import dialog box. Import a maximum of 13 files at a time if
your configuration exceeds this number of profiles. To reduce the number of files,
you can store, for example, all open field depth dose curves or profiles in one file.
● In some occasions, particularly with very long path names, not all selected files are
imported when importing raw W2CAD files. This is due to a limitation in the Windows
operating system on the total number of characters that can be passed in the import
dialog box. Copy the files to a location with a short path name (for example,
c:\mydata), or import the files in smaller batches.

If you are importing FFF or SRS beam data, make sure that the beam data contains correct
primary fluence mode data for the selected treatment unit.
1. In the Focus Window, select the add-on for which you want to import the measured data.
2. Choose File > Import and then the measured data you wish to import.

2 3 4
1
5

1. Navigate to the folder containing the w2CAD files in this list box
2. Select the w2CAD file or files in this box
3. Displays the measurements in the selected w2CAD files
4. Select the measurements for preview in the data view
5. Select this check box to view the curves during the import
6. Preview the selected measured data in these boxes

3. In the Look in list box, navigate to the folder containing the files to be imported, and select a
file or multiple files.
To see a preview of the measurements contained in the files, select a measurement in the
Measurements in selected files box.
4. To view each individual curve when the data is imported, select the Review data curves
during import check box. You can decide for each curve, if you want to import it or not.

26 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 5. Click OK to start the import.
All measurements in the selected file(s) will be imported.
If there are errors in the import data, the OK button is dimmed and you are not able to
proceed. Errors in the data are shown in the preview window of the import dialog. If you are
importing multiple data files, select each file one by one to detect the erroneous data file.
6. If the add-on already contains some beam data, you are prompted to select whether you wish
to import only curves missing from the existing data, replace the existing data with the
imported data, or skip the import of the data.
7. Verify the imported data.

Related Topics
Verifying Configured Beam Data on page 30

Import Configured Eclipse Beam Data

If you are importing FFF or SRS beam data, make sure that the beam data contains correct
primary fluence mode data for the selected treatment unit.
1. Create an empty beam data container.
2. In the Focus Window, select the empty beam data container.
3. Choose File > Import > Eclipse Beam Data.

1 4

2 5

1. Shows the directory from where the beam data is read

2. Shows data in the selected beam data directory
3. Define a name for the beam data in this box
4. Click this button to browse to the directory containing the Eclipse beam data
5. Shows parameters of the selected data set

4. To navigate to the directory containing the Eclipse beam data, click Browse.
Navigate to the level of general data files of the calculation model. This level is above the
folders containing the configured beam data files. For instance, the general data folder may
be named “AAA”, and the configured data folders below it “000”, “001”, “002”, and so on. You
should navigate to the folder named “AAA” in this case.

Configuration of Beam Data 27

 5. In the list box on the left, select the data set containing the Eclipse beam data to import.
You can review some parameters of the data set in the list box on the right.
6. In the Into beam data box, define a name for the beam data.
7. Click OK.
If the version of the calculation model and the version of the configuration program found
from the server do not match, the calculation model is automatically updated. The new
version data is shown in the Update Calculation Model dialog box.
8. Click Close.
9. When prompted, to delete all calculated beam data, click Yes, or to keep the calculated beam
data, click No.
10. In the message box prompting you to re-calculate all beam data, click OK.
11. Match and assign the add-ons.
Continue by verifying the imported beam data.

Related Topics
Verifying Configured Beam Data on page 30
File Hierarchy in Beam Configuration on page 73
Match and Assign Add-On Data on page 34
Adding New Beam Data on page 23

Add New Measured Data Manually

1. In the Focus Window, select the add-on for which you want to add depth dose data
manually.
2. Choose Insert and then the new measured data you wish to add.
3. In the Focus Window, select the measured depth dose or measured profile object you just
added, and choose Insert > New Curve.
4. Do one of the following:
● Depth dose: In the Value column, type the field size in millimeters.
● Profile data: In the Value column, type the field size and the depth in millimeters.
5. Click OK.
The thumbnail for the defined field size appears in the Object Window. For square fields,
one dimension value is displayed in the Object Window. For rectangular fields, two
dimension values are displayed.
6. Select the thumbnail for the defined field size.
7. Choose Beam Data > Curve Editor.
8. In the Dose column, type the dose percentage at each point along the curve.

Related Topics
Editing Configured Beam Data on page 31

28 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Interpolate the Table Data
1. In the Focus Window, select the table for which you want to interpolate data (for example an
output factor table, or an effective source size table).
2. Choose Beam Data > Interpolate Missing Values.
The missing values are interpolated and appear in the table.

Generating Configured Beam Data

From the measured beam data imported for the treatment unit, Beam Configuration can
generate configured beam data for the selected therapy unit (all add-ons inserted in the therapy
unit), or individual add-ons. The latter option is available for the AAA, Acuros XB, Acuros PT and
PCS algorithms. More information on these algorithms, and the beam data that you can calculate
for them: Eclipse Photon and Electron Algorithms Reference Guide and Eclipse Proton
Algorithms Reference Guide.

Note: After making changes to beam data in Beam Configuration, make sure that all
Eclipse applications are restarted to enforce the changes to the beam data that is used in
treatment planning.

CAUTION: Changes to the configuration, including transmission and linear

attenuation values of the dosimetric materials, are not automatically
applied to plans for which the dose has already been calculated.
Recalculate the dose distribution to have the changes reflected in the
dose distribution of a previously calculated plan. This also applies to
transmission and linear attenuation values of the dosimetric materials.

Calculate Configured Beam Data for Individual Add-Ons

1. In the Focus Window, select the add-on for which you want to generate calculated beam
data.
2. Choose Beam Data > Calculate Beam Data.
If the ConfigurationCalculationSpecification file of the algorithm contains more than one step,
the Calculate Beam Data dialog box opens. Otherwise the calculation of the configured
beam data starts.
3. If prompted to do so, select the beam data to be generated and click OK to start the
calculation.
Verify the configured beam data.

Related Topics
Verifying Configured Beam Data on page 30

Configuration of Beam Data 29

 Calculate Configured Beam Data for All Add-Ons in a Therapy Unit
1. In the Focus Window, select the therapy unit to for which you want to generate calculated
beam data.
2. Choose Beam Data > Calculate All Beam Data.
Verify the configured beam data.

Related Topics
Verifying Configured Beam Data on page 30

Verifying Configured Beam Data

In addition to previewing measured data during the import procedure, you can view measured
beam data in Beam Configuration. You can verify the configured beam data visually curve by
curve, checking the values at specific points along the curve, and modifying them, if necessary.
You can also overlay multiple curves simultaneously to display the field size and depth
dependencies. Both the individual and simultaneous displays enable visual verification of the
consistency of the stored beam data.
You can display or print out all curves shown on the screen to compare with the original
measured curves. There should be little or no difference between the stored and the measured
curves.
Minor errors at individual points can be corrected in the Curve Editor. If you find major errors in
the data, do the corrections in the original data and re-import it. Continue by re-generating the
calculated data.

NOTICE: To detect possible errors occurring when importing measured beam

data, always compare the configured beam data with the measured
beam data.

Note: Manual changes made to the measured or configured beam data curves do not
automatically invalidate the previously configured data. If you modify beam data
manually, make sure you take the necessary configuration steps again to re-generate the
configured data from the edited data.

Related Topics
Editing Configured Beam Data on page 31

30 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Verify Configured Beam Data Curves
1. In the Context Window, select the beam data to review.
2. To select the curve to review, do one of the following:
● In the Object Window, select the curve to review.
● On the Beam Data toolbar, click Select and then click the desired curve in the lower
data window.

The lower data window displays the selected curve. The upper data window displays all
curves contained in the selected beam data.

Tip: The normalization type for the displayed curve depends on the selected
algorithm. More information: Eclipse Photon and Electron Algorithms Reference
Guide or Eclipse Proton Algorithms Reference Guide.

3. To show the data points along the curve, click Show Data Points .
4. Review the data curves.

Related Topics
Editing Configured Beam Data on page 31

Editing Configured Beam Data

Configured beam data can be modified with the Curve Editor tool that shows beam data, data
points, and data values both in numerical and graphical format. The figure shows the Curve
Editor.

1 2

Figure 6 Viewing and Editing Unapproved Data in Curve Editor

1. Beam data point values

2. Beam data curve

The point values along the curve are shown in the left part of the Curve Editor; the data curve
itself in the right part. You can move the points by typing new values.

Configuration of Beam Data 31

 The Curve Editor can also be used to view approved beam data, which is read-only.

Edit and View Beam Data Curves with the Curve Editor
1. In the Focus Window under an add-on, select the item containing the curve to edit.
2. In the Object Window, select the curve to edit.

3. Choose Beam Data > Curve Editor .

4. To move a point, type a new value in its data cell.

Note: Approved beam data curves cannot be modified.

5. Click OK.

Print Curve Data

1. Do one of the following:
● In the Curve Editor, click Print.
● Activate the view with the curve to be printed and choose File > Print > View.
2. Select the data to print:
● To print the numerical values of the data, click the Numeric Data option button.
● To print the data curve, click the Graphics option button.
● To print both numerical and graphical information, click the Both option button.
3. Click OK to print out the curve data.

Correct the Depth of Dose Maximum Value Manually

1. Import the beam data.
2. To initialize the beam data, start generating the configured beam data and in the Calculate
Beam Data dialog box, select Initialize.
3. In Model Parameters, change the Normalization to Dmax / Given Depth parameter value
to 0 (Given Depth).
4. In Model Parameters, change the Reference Field Size for Dmax parameter value as
desired.
5. In the Focus Window, select Depth of Dose Maximum.
6. In the Object Window, select the DMax curve.
7. Open the Curve Editor.
8. In the Depth column, on the row of the reference field size defined in Model Parameters,
type the desired depth for the dose maximum.
9. Click OK.
10. Re-calculate the desired configured beam data.

Related Topics
Generating Configured Beam Data on page 29
Edit and View Beam Data Curves with the Curve Editor on page 32

32 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Configuring Add-on Data
Add-on data is defined in two places: RT Administration and Beam Configuration:
● RT Administration is used to configure the add-on data to the database. The add-ons are
added to each treatment unit (radiation device), and the materials and dosimetric data used
in some versions of the dose calculation and optimization algorithms are configured for each
add-on.
More information: RT Administration Reference Guide.
● Beam Configuration is used to configure the add-on data for those versions of dose
calculation and optimization algorithms that use such add-on data defined in beam data. The
add-ons are added to the beam data used in each treatment unit.
To define the relationship between these two add-on configurations, you need to match the add-
ons configured for a treatment unit (radiation device) with the corresponding add-on in the beam
data. For more information about which data is defined in RT Administration and in Beam
Configuration for each algorithm version, refer to Eclipse Photon and Electron Algorithms
Reference Guide and Eclipse Proton Algorithms Reference Guide. This can be done manually or
automatically.
In Beam Configuration, open fields, wedges, blocks, MLCs and compensators are all
considered to be add-ons. You can use the beam data only once for one type of an add-on. For
example, you can assign a compensator material in the beam data only once.

Automatic Add-On Matching

Beam Configuration is capable of automatically matching the add-ons of the beam data with the
add-ons of the treatment unit. Automatic add-on matching looks for certain add-on data in the
database and suggests using this data when doing the matching. You can then select the
suggested match data, or some other add-on data, if desired.
The table shows the add-on data read by Beam Configuration in the database and the
suggested match.

Table 1 Data Used for Automatic Add-On Matching for Photon/Electron Treatment Units

Add-On Data
Standard wedge Wedge angles with source-wedge distance
™
Enhanced Dynamic Wedge All data found for the add-on
Electron applicator Applicator sizes
Compensator Compensator materials
Cone set Cone applicators
Elekta motorized wedge All data found for the add-on
Elekta virtual wedge All data found for the add-on
Siemens virtual wedge All data found for the add-on

Configuration of Beam Data 33

 Add-On Data
MLC for AAA and Acuros XB 15.5-17.0 MLC materials
MLC for AAA, Acuros XB, and PO for version MLC ID
18.0 and newer

Table 2 Data Used for Automatic Add-On Matching for Proton Treatment Units

Add-On Data
Option Options
Lateral Spreader Lateral spreaders
Range Shifter Range shifters
Range Modulator Range modulators
Beam Spot Beam spots
Block Block materials
Compensator Compensator materials
MLC MLC materials

Match and Assign Add-On Data

1. The Match and Assign Add-Ons dialog box opens automatically after importing beam data
from Eclipse or after assigning existing beam data to the selected treatment unit.
To open the dialog box separately, go to the Focus Window, select any data object under an
algorithm, and then choose Beam Data > Match and Assign Add-Ons.
2. Select the In Use check box for each beam data that is in use in the selected treatment unit.
3. To do manual matching of the add-ons, in each Match column, select the code of the add-on
configured in RT Administration that corresponds to the add-on beam data.
● For wedges, define a match for each wedge position in the Match columns.
● To select all add-ons in the list, click All.
● To clear the selection from all add-ons, click None.

34 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Tip: To remove an approved add-on, select the add-on in the Focus Window and
choose Edit > Clear.

4. To match a single add-on automatically, do the following:

a. Click the ID cell of the add-on and then click Single.
The Automatically Match Add-On Data dialog box opens, showing the add-on data
found in the database related to the add-on.
b. In the Match list box, select the add-on data for the match.
For instance, if the selected add-on is a standard 15-degree wedge with a source-wedge
distance of 500 mm, select the corresponding data in the list box.
c. Click OK.
5. To match all add-ons automatically, do the following:
a. In the Automatic Match group box, click All.
The Automatically Match Add-On Data dialog box opens, showing the add-on data
found in the database related to the first add-on inserted in Beam Configuration.
b. In the Match list box, select the add-on data for the first match.
c. Click OK.
The Automatically Match Add-On Data dialog box shows the add-on data of the next
add-on in the list.

Note: To skip an add-on, select None in the list. This may be necessary, if you
later wish to match the add-on manually.

d. Repeat until you have matched all add-ons.

After the last add-on, the Automatically Match Add-On Data dialog box closes.

Note: The match is valid for all wedges in the database with the selected angle
and source-wedge distance. Wedges with the same angle but different source-
wedge distance are matched to different add-ons.

6. To finish, click Close.

Configuration of Beam Data 35

 Related Topics
Clear Beam Data on page 40

Configuring Additional Calculation Parameters for an Add-On

After you have added the measured data to each add-on, some additional, algorithm-specific data
may be needed. For some algorithms, additional data is automatically added during the
calculation of configured beam data, while other algorithms require adding data manually. The
commands in the Insert menu vary according to the algorithm. For parameters required for each
algorithm, refer to the description of the algorithm in question.

Loading Parameter Values from the Database for a Calculation Model

You can check the parameter values of a calculation model saved in Beam Configuration
against related default values defined in RT Administration and stored in the database. The
following default values can be checked from the database:
● Energy mode of the treatment unit
● Operating limits of the treatment unit (SAD, source primary collimator distance, source
secondary collimator distance)
● Field size values for open and wedged fields

Load All Parameter Values from the Database for a Calculation Model
1. Choose Beam Data > Parameter Values > Get All Parameters from Database.
If there are differences between the values saved in Beam Configuration and the default
values stored in the database, a message box opens, listing the parameter values found in
Beam Configuration and values found in the database. If there are no differences, the
message box simply states this.
2. To close the message box and complete the action, click OK.

Load Single Parameters from the Database for a Calculation Model

1. Choose Beam Data > Parameter Values > Get Parameter from Database.
A message box opens, showing the parameter value defined in Beam Configuration and the
default value found in the database.
2. To close the message box, click OK.

Assigning Beam Data

You can assign existing beam data to a selected treatment unit; accordingly, several treatment
units may share the same beam data. You can share beam data between treatment units in your
own departments. If the beam data is shared by a treatment unit outside of your departments, you
can share it only with specific user rights.
If your system has a group or groups of dosimetrically equivalent machines configured, you can
select the equivalent machine from which you wish to assign the beam data.

36 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Note: Assigning beam data from another treatment unit also means that any change
performed to the calculation model will affect all treatment units sharing the same beam
data. Notice that you can also copy beam data from one treatment unit to another, which
creates an independent calculation model.

Related Topics
Copying Beam Data on page 38

Assign Beam Data to a Dose Calculation Model

1. In the Focus Window, select the dose calculation model to which you want to assign existing
measured beam data.
2. Choose Insert > New Beam Data.
3. In the Insert New Beam Data dialog box, click the Assign existing data to the calculation
model option button
4. In the Existing beam data for current calculation model list, select the data to assign to
the selected treatment unit.
If beam data is used by a treatment unit outside your departments, the following happens:
● An exclamation mark is shown at the beginning of the beam data row.
● Treatment unit name is not visible.
In this case, it depends on your user rights whether you can assign this beam data.
5. Click OK.
Match and assign the add-on data.

Note: If your system has a group or groups of dosimetrically equivalent machines

configured, after choosing Insert > New Beam Data, you are prompted to confirm
whether you wish to assign the beam data from one of the equivalent machines. You
can then select the equivalent machine from which you wish to use the beam data
and move on to matching and assigning the add-on data.

Assign Beam Data to an Optimization Calculation Model

1. In the Focus Window, select the optimization calculation model to which you want to assign
existing measured beam data.
2. Choose Insert > New Beam Data.
3. In the Insert New Beam Data dialog box, click the Assign existing data to the
optimization model option button.
4. In the Existing beam data for current optimization model list, select the data to assign to
the selected treatment unit.
If beam data is used by a treatment unit outside your departments, the following happens:
● An exclamation mark is shown at the beginning of the beam data row.
● Treatment unit name is not visible.
In this case, it depends on your user rights whether you can assign this beam data.

Configuration of Beam Data 37

 5. Click OK.
Match and assign the add-on data.

Note: If your system has a group or groups of dosimetrically equivalent machines

configured, after choosing Insert > New Beam Data, you are prompted to confirm
whether you wish to assign the beam data from one of the equivalent machines. You
can then select the equivalent machine from which you wish to use the beam data
and move on to matching and assigning the add-on data.

Copying Beam Data

You can copy existing beam data to the selected treatment unit. Copying beam data duplicates
the selected data that can be modified as necessary.

Related Topics
Assigning Beam Data on page 36

Copy Beam Data to a Dose Calculation Model

1. In the Focus Window, select the dose calculation model to which you will copy existing
measured beam data.
2. Choose Insert > New Beam Data.
3. In the Insert New Beam Data dialog box, type a descriptive name for the treatment unit in
the Therapy Unit Name text box.
4. Click the Copy existing data to the calculation model option button.
5. In the Existing beam data for current calculation model list, select the data to copy to the
selected treatment unit.
6. Click OK.
Match and assign the add-on data.

Note: If your system has a group or groups of dosimetrically equivalent machines

configured, after choosing Insert > New Beam Data, you are prompted to confirm
whether you wish to copy the beam data from one of the equivalent machines. You
can then select the equivalent machine from which you wish to copy the beam data
and move on to matching and assigning the add-on data.

Related Topics
Match and Assign Add-On Data on page 34

Copy Beam Data to an Optimization Calculation Model

1. In the Focus Window, select the optimization calculation model to which you will copy
existing measured beam data.
2. Choose Insert > New Beam Data.
3. In the Insert New Beam Data dialog box, type a descriptive name for the treatment unit in
the Therapy Unit Name text box.

38 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 4. Do one of the following:
● To copy data from another treatment unit, click the Copy existing data to the
optimization model option button. In the Existing beam data for current optimization
model list, select the data to copy to the selected treatment unit.
● To copy data from a dose calculation model of the current treatment unit and energy,
click Copy existing calculation model data to the optimization model. Select the
dose calculation model from the Existing calculation models for current treatment
unit and energy list.
5. Click OK.
Match and assign the add-on data.

Note: If your system has a group or groups of dosimetrically equivalent machines

configured, after choosing Insert > New Beam Data, you are prompted to confirm
whether you wish to copy the beam data from one of the equivalent machines. You
can then select the equivalent machine from which you wish to copy the beam data
and move on to matching and assigning the add-on data.

Related Topics
Match and Assign Add-On Data on page 34

Copy and Paste Individual Beam Data Curves

1. In the Object Window, select the beam data curve you wish to copy and paste.
2. Choose Edit > Copy Curve.
3. In the Context Window, navigate to the calculation model, add-on and beam data object to
which you wish to copy the curve.
4. Choose Edit > Paste Curve.
If necessary, you are prompted to define additional parameters for the curve.

Beam Data Management

At any time, beam data can be cleared to remove it from service temporarily or permanently.
Beam data can also be completely deleted from the file system.
● Clearing beam data: Disassociates beam data with a treatment unit while retaining the data.
The data is available in the configuration system, and can be re-assigned or copied to a
different treatment unit, or re-assigned to the same treatment unit. Clearing beam data does
not affect other treatment units or beam energies that might share the same data.
● Deleting beam data: Completely removes the actual data from the configuration system.
Deleting beam data affects all beam energies in all treatment units that use the deleted data.

Configuration of Beam Data 39

 Set Configured Beam Data as Modified
In some cases, particularly when configuring proton beam data, it may be necessary to edit the
configured proton beam data files outside Beam Configuration. This editing will lead to an
invalid checksum. You can manually resolve the invalid checksum with the Set Data as Modified
command.

Note: The preferred method in making beam data changes is to modify the original
measured beam data files and re-import modified files to Beam Configuration.

1. In the Focus Window, right-click a configured beam data object and then choose Set Data
as Modified.
2. Confirm the modification and click Set to Modified State.

Clear Beam Data

1. In the Focus Window, select the data to clear.
2. Choose Edit > Clear.
The result depends on the selection:
● Table: The selected table is zeroed.
● Add-on: The data of the selected add-on is emptied.
● Beam data: The selected beam data is removed from use.

Delete Beam Data

1. In the Focus Window, select the data to delete.
2. Choose Edit > Delete.
3. To confirm the deletion, click Yes.
The beam data is deleted from the configuration system. All beam energies in all treatment
units that use the deleted data are affected.

Printing Beam Data Views and Reports

You can print out selected beam data views in graphical or numerical format and beam data
reports for the selected add-on.
The curve data contained in the selected beam data view can be printed out in numerical or
graphical format or both. The selected view may contain any type of beam data, such as curves
for all field sizes at one depth or just one curve.
When printed out in numerical format, curve and profile data is printed in tabular format,
containing all points of all the curves in the active view. Table and parameter data, such as dose
rate table data and General Parameters data is printed in the same way they are displayed in
the user interface.

40 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Figure 7 Example Curve Printout in Numerical Format
A beam data report contains the selected beam data under the selected add-on in numerical,
tabular format. The contents depend on the calculation model and the selected add-on. The data
of each beam data object starts from a new page. The curve data contains all points of all the
curves. Table and parameter data, such as dose rate table data and General Parameters data,
is printed in the same way they are displayed in the user interface.

Print Configured Beam Data Reports

1. In the Focus Window, select the add-on that contains the beam data to be printed.
2. Choose File > Print > Print Report.
3. Define what you wish to print by selecting the appropriate check boxes.
4. Click OK.
5. Select the desired printer.
6. Click OK.

Print Beam Data Curve Values

1. In the Focus Window, select the desired beam data object.
2. Activate the beam data view that contains the data you wish to print by clicking the title bar.
3. Choose File > Print > View.
4. Define what you wish to print by selecting the appropriate option button.
5. Click OK.
6. Select the desired printer.
7. Click OK.

Configuration of Beam Data 41

 Exporting Beam Data
You can export beam data in ASCII file format, and XML beam data in W2CAD file format for
further evaluation and verification outside Beam Configuration. The export file contains the data
separated with commas and spaces, and can be opened in, for example, a spreadsheet
application.
More information on W2CAD file format: Eclipse Photon and Electron Algorithms Reference
Guide or Eclipse Proton Algorithms Reference Guide.

Curve Data Export Files

The curve data export files contain the following information.

Table 3 Information in Curve ASCII Export Files

Information Example
Number of measurements $NUMS 1

Start of data $STOD

Title of the export file title: Measured Depth Dose Data

Beam type beam: high energy photons

SSD SSD: 1000

Field size field size: 100

Curve type curve: depth dose

Direction direction: 0 0 1

Number of points in the curve number of points: 81

Axis legend axis legend: Depth

Data legend data legend: Dose

In addition, the curve export files contain information about the selected curve, such as the field
size, depth, direction, or the measurement depth, depending on the selected curve.

Beam Data Export Files

The beam data export files contain the following information for all exported data.

Table 4 Information in Beam Data ASCII Export Files

Information Example
Treatment unit (configured in RT Administration) machine: D_Varian23EX, 6X

Therapy unit name beam data: DEMO UNIT 6 MV

Selected add-on add on: Open Field − 00

Exported data type data: Measured Depth Dose Data

42 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Information Example
Beam type beam: high energy photons

Energy [MV] energy [MV]: 6

Export date exporting date: September 24,

2002

Column legend column legend: Field Size [mm]

Row legend row legend: Depth [mm]

Data legend data legend: Dose [%]

In addition, the export files contain information about the particular data, such as the SSD, the
SPD or the calibration date, depending on the type of data exported.

Export Curve or Beam Data

1. Choose File > Export > Curve, All Data or Data to W2CAD File.
2. Navigate to the directory where you wish to save the export file.
3. In the File name text box, type a name for the export file.
4. Click Save.

Configuration of Beam Data 43

Analyzing and Approving Beam Data

Comparing the Configured Beam Data and the Calculated Dose

In the Beam Analysis workspace, you can compare the configured depth dose and profile data
with the corresponding dose distributions calculated by the same calculation servant as is used in
External Beam Planning.
A dose distribution is calculated in a phantom where 0 HU is assigned to the body structure. The
0 HU value is converted to appropriate density by using the calibration curves of the Varian
Phantom CT Scanner. You can compare the results to the measured depth dose curves and
profiles. Potential deviations are shown both graphically and numerically.

Note: If the calibration curves of the Varian Phantom CT Scanner do not correspond to
unit density at HU = 0, the dose calculation in Beam Analysis will not correspond to a
water-equivalent situation.

Dose Calculation for Rectangular Fields in Beam Analysis

In Beam Analysis, rectangular field dose calculation is supported for both the AAA and Acuros
XB algorithms.
To calculate the largest rectangular field for AAA and Acuros XB, the first matched add-on for the
wedge beam data must be a wedge in:
● LEFT or RIGHT orientation, if the field size is entered as, for example, %FLSZ 200*400, or
● IN or OUT orientation, if the field has been entered in %FLSZ 400*200.

Calculations in Beam Analysis

The difference between the calculated and measured dose data is defined at each measured
data point according to the following equation:
Equation 1

Ddiff (X) = Dm(X) − Dc(X)

where
Dm(x) = Measured dose at the point x
Dc(x) = Calculated dose at the point x

The following quality parameters are calculated to indicate the quality of the beam data:
● Photon and electron beam data
● Distance (in millimeters) to agreement of the 100% dose point (dmax)
● Distance (in millimeters) to agreement of the 50% dose point
● Percent dose difference at 100 mm depth

44 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 ● Percent dose difference at 200 mm depth
● Photon beam data
● Distance (in millimeters) to agreement of the 80% profiles, left and right of the central axis
● Distance (in millimeters) to agreement of the 50% profiles, left and right of the central axis
● Distance (in millimeters) to agreement of the 20% profiles, left and right of the central axis

2 3

Figure 8 Analysis of Measured and Calculated Profiles

1. Graphical overlay
2. Dose differences plot
3. Table of numerical comparison parameters

Analyzing and Approving Beam Data 45

 1

2 3

Figure 9 Analysis of Measured and Calculated Depth Doses

1. Graphical overlay
2. Dose difference plot
3. Table of numerical comparison parameters

46 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Define the Dose Calculation Options for Beam Analysis
1. Choose Workspace > Beam Analysis.

2. Choose Beam Analysis > Set Calculation Options ( ).

2
3

1. The selected calculation model.

2. Calculation options of the selected calculation model.
3. Calculation option values. Click the down-pointing arrow head to choose a new value, or type a new value in
the text box.
4. Information on the selected calculation option.

3. Select the desired calculation option group on the left side of the Calculation Options dialog
box.
4. Click the desired calculation option on the right side of the dialog box, and do one of the
following:
● Click the down-pointing arrowhead and choose a new value from the list.
● Type a new value in the text box.
5. Click OK.

Calculate the Dose for Beam Analysis

1. Approve the configured beam data before starting the beam analysis.
2. In the Scope Window, select the add-on for which you wish to calculate beam data.
3. Choose Beam Analysis > Calculate Dose.
Depending on the selected add-on, you are prompted to select the desired wedge angle or
field sizes.

Analyzing and Approving Beam Data 47

 4. Do one or several of the following:
● Open field: In the Choose Field Sizes to be Calculated dialog box, you can view the
field sizes found from the measured beam data.
Select the field sizes for which you wish to calculate the beam data. To select multiple
field sizes, press Ctrl or Shift and click the sizes. To select all field sizes, click Select All.
Click OK.
● Enhanced Dynamic Wedge: In the Wedge Angle to Calculate dialog box, select the
wedge angle. Click OK.
The 3D dose distribution in a water phantom is calculated using the selected calculation
model. The dose distributions are calculated for the field sizes selected from among the
original set of depth dose and profile measurements. The calculated depth doses and profiles
are displayed in the Data Windows.

Normalize the Depth Dose Comparison for Beam Analysis

The measured and calculated depth dose curves for comparison can be normalized to any
specified depth, such as the dose maximum, or they can be left unnormalized.
1. In the Focus Window, select the Calculated Depth Dose branch.
2. Choose Beam Analysis > Normalize Depth Dose Comparison to and choose one of the
following:
● Maximum Dose command
● Given Depth command
● None command

Note: If you select None, the curves are not normalized.

The depth dose curves are normalized as defined.

The normalization type for the curve displayed in the Beam Data workspace depends on the
selected algorithm. More information: Eclipse Photon and Electron Algorithms Reference
Guide or Eclipse Proton Algorithms Reference Guide.

Approving and Unapproving the Configured Beam Data

You must approve new or modified configured beam data before it can be used clinically. You
can either approve the selected beam data file or all files under the selected add-on. The status
of the data changes from Unapproved to Approved. You can also remove beam data from clinical
use by unapproving it. The status of the beam data is stored into the map file of the selected
calculation model.
You can approve and unapprove configure beam data in Beam Data and Beam Analysis
workspaces.

WARNING: Beam data approved in Beam Configuration is available for clinical

use even though the beam data may not be fully commissioned.

48 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Note: When approving beam data, notice the following:
● After making changes to beam data in Beam Configuration, make sure that all
Eclipse applications are restarted to enforce the changes to the beam data that is
used in treatment planning.
● Access to Beam Configuration is restricted. Only users with Physicist or
Administrator user rights can enter Beam Configuration. Make sure that these user
access rights are not assigned to unauthorized persons. Physicists and
Administrators have the rights to approve and unapprove beam data without further
password entries inside Beam Configuration.
● When you approve the beam data for dosimetrically equivalent treatment machines,
the complete data sets for all dosimetrically equivalent machines will only be
approved when all add-ons are identical. If for some of the machines an add-on is
different, only the add-ons which are the same as on all of the dosimetrically
equivalent machines will be approved. In that case you need to check the other
machines as well and configure and approve the corresponding add-ons.

The Approved status is indicated in the Focus Window by a green frame around the beam data
icons.

1 2

Figure 10 Unapproved and Approved Beam Data

1. Unapproved beam data

2. Approved beam data

In this example, the beam data on the left is unapproved, and the beam data on the right is
approved. You can approve all beam data of a treatment unit by selecting the treatment unit in
the Focus Window and then approving the data. The Properties dialog shows more details
about the beam data, such as the date and time of approval.

Related Topics
Map File in Beam Configuration on page 75

Analyzing and Approving Beam Data 49

 Approve Beam Data
1. In the Beam Data or Beam Analysis workspace, select the beam data you wish to approve.
In the Focus Window, select the beam data folder, add-on or data object to be approved.
2. To approve data, choose Beam Data > Approve Data or Beam Analyzing > Approve Data.
3. To confirm the approval, select Beam data has been reviewed and it is correct and click
Approve.

Unapprove Beam Data

1. In the Beam Data or Beam Analysis workspace, select the beam data you wish to
unapprove.
In the Focus Window, select the beam data folder, add-on or data object to be unapproved.
2. To unapprove data, choose Beam Data > Unapprove Data or Beam Analyzing >
Unapprove Data.
The icons of the selected data change to indicate the Unapproved status.
3. To confirm the unapproval, click Yes.

50 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

CT Calibration

About CT Calibration
You must create a valid calibration protocol for each imaging device (CT scanner) added to the
database. A calibration protocol has three calibration curves that do the following:
● Convert the image values in an image to electron or mass densities or proton stopping power
during dose calculation.
● Convert image values to electron density during DICOM import, and electron density into
image values during DICOM export.
In Eclipse, you can assign an image value to a structure. During DICOM export or import, the
image value of the structure is converted to relative electron density. The relative electron
density is read from the electron density calibration curve defined for the imaging device. A
calibration curve must be approved before it can be used in dose calculation.
To obtain HU vs. calibration curves for an individual CT scanner, scan a phantom that contains a
sufficient range of materials with known mass density calibration, electron density or proton
stopping power data, or create a curve from theoretical considerations 1, 2, 3.

Note: Set the same image value range for all calibration curves.

About Calibration Protocols

A CT scanner (imaging device) can have up to 20 active calibration protocols for different
energies and image types, such as Direct Density, synthetic CT, and Direct SPR. When you
create a CT scanner in RT Administration, a copy of the System Default calibration protocol
containing three calibration curves is automatically attached to it. You can create new calibration
protocols and edit and approve the calibration curves in Beam Configuration.

1 Chetty I.J., Curran B., Cygler J.E. et al., Report of the AAPM Task Group No. 105: Issues associated with clinical
implementation of Monte Carlo-based photon and electron external beam treatment planning. Med Phys 2007; 34:
4818–4853.
2 Schaffner B. and Pedroni E.: The precision of proton range calculations in proton radiotherapy treatment planning:
experimental verification of the relation between CT-HU and proton stopping power. Phys. Med. Biol. 1998 43,
1579.
3 Constantinou C., Harrington J.C., DeWerd L.A., An electron density calibration phantom for CT-based treatment
planning computers. Med Phys. 1992 Mar–Apr; 19 (2): 325–7.

CT Calibration 51
 When you import an image set, DICOM attributes are used to match it to a calibration protocol. If
no perfect match is found, you will be prompted to assign the calibration protocol in the planning
workspace before you start dose calculation. You can view the calibration protocol properties, the
calibration curves, and their approval history in RT Administration and in the Image Properties
in the planning workspace.

WARNING: The CT scanner software version may affect the DICOM metadata of
images imported to Eclipse or ARIA RTM. Ensure that the match rules
defined for the calibration protocol work when the CT scanner software
has been updated. Automatic matching of images with the wrong
calibration protocol may lead to an incorrect dose distribution and
incorrect treatment of the patient.

The different statuses of the calibration protocols and calibration curves are shown in the
following tables. The modifications and status changes of a calibration protocol are shown on the
History tab of the Calibration Protocol Properties dialog box. At least one of the calibration
curves must be approved when you start dose calculation.

Table 5 Calibration Protocol Statuses

Status Editing Automatic As- Manual Assign- Curve Editing

signment ment and Status
Change
Unapproved Yes No No Yes
Commissioning No No Yes, requires ac- Yes
knowledgement.
Approved No Yes Yes No
Retired No No No No

Table 6 Calibration Curve Statuses

Status Editing Dose Calculation Plan Approval

Unapproved Yes No No
Approved No Yes Yes

Note: The calibration protocol status controls if the calibration protocol can be assigned
to the images (automatically or by the user), whereas the calibration curve status controls
the dose calculation and approval. It is possible to have a plan which has an unapproved
calibration protocol assigned to calculate a dose for that plan. This could happen if you
unapprove a calibration protocol which has already been assigned to the images in the
plan.

The System Default calibration protocol is only used as a template for new calibration protocols
and can only be modified by your system administrator. Phantom images are linked to the Varian
Phantom CT Scanner by default. You need global admin rights to edit the properties and
calibration protocol of the Varian Phantom CT Scanner. The Varian Phantom CT Scanner or its
protocols can not be deleted from the system.

52 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Converting Image Values to Electron and Mass Densities
When you import a CT image into the system, the station name, manufacturer, machine model
and serial number of the imaging device are compared with the imaging devices stored in the
database. If a match is found, the CT image attributes are further matched with the calibration
protocols of the imaging device. If a unique calibration protocol match is found, the rescale type of
the image and the calibration protocol are used to convert image values to electron density, mass
density or proton stopping power values used in dose calculation. If a matching imaging device or
calibration protocol is not found, you need to manually match the imaging device and calibration
protocol to use for the image series in a planning workspace.
The system contains a default electron density curve. The default curve is given in the equation,
in accordance with ICRU Report 424 :
Equation 2

ρω, e = 1,0 + 0,001 × NCT −1000 ≤ NCT ≤ 100

ρω, e = 1,052 + 0,00048 × NCT NCT > 100

where
ρω,ε = Electron density relative to the electron density of water
NCT = Dependence of the electron density from the electron density of
water on CT number

Related Topics
Edit the Calibration Curve on page 56

Modifying the CT Calibration

You can create multiple calibration protocols for each imaging device configured in the database
and modify the calibration curves stored in these protocols.
You can create and modify calibration protocols only for those imaging devices that have been
assigned to the same departments as you.

NOTICE: Apart from saving your work regularly, create regular backups of your
system to avoid losing important information. The regular backups
should contain patient database including image directories, dosimetric
data, and beam data.

Note: After making changes to beam data in Beam Configuration, make sure that all
Eclipse applications are restarted to enforce the changes to the beam data that is used in
treatment planning.

4 ICRU Report 42, “Use of Computers in External Beam Radiotherapy Procedures with High Energy Photons and
Electrons”, p. 18

CT Calibration 53
 Note: When editing a calibration curve, make sure that the values in the Y axis are in
increasing order.

®
Note: Always verify the CT calibration. Varian does not assume responsibility for the
validity of the calibration protocol or the calibration curve.

To verify that the calibration curve is correctly configured, take a CT image of the calibration
phantom, import it in the system and check that the values shown in the Physical Properties tab
of the Point Dose tool are correct.
Information about using the Physical Property tab: Eclipse Photon and Electron Reference
Guide.

Create a New Calibration Protocol

Each imaging device must have at least one calibration protocol for matching the calibration with
imported images. Each calibration protocol has three calibration curves: mass density, electron
density and proton stopping power.
1. Choose Beam Data > CT Calibration.
2. Select a CT scanner from the Imaging Devices list and click Add New Calibration
Protocol.
3. Enter an ID, description and match rules for matching the new calibration protocol with
DICOM images. Refer to the following table for more information.

Table 7 Match Rules

Match Rule DICOM tag Note Matching examples

Protocol 0018,1030 Refers to the protocol Synthetic CT* matches to Synthetic
Name name in the DICOM tag CT Head anatomy.
of the image, not the cali-
bration protocol name.
Supports wildcard ‘*’
KVP 0018, 0060 Peak kilo voltage [kV]
needs to match exactly if
entered.
Image Type 0008,0008 Multivalue, supports wild- *\*\*\SYNCT% macthes to both DE-
cards ‘*’ and ‘%’ RIVED\SECONDARY\AX-
IAL\SYNCT_HEAD and DE-
RIVED\SECONDARY\AX-
IAL\SYNCT_PELVIS.
Convolution 0018,1210 Multivalue, supports wild- Qr40f\* and Qr40f% match to
Kernel cards ‘*’ and ‘%’ Qr40f\3.
Rescale Type 0028,1054 Mandatory, the default
value is HU. Needs to
match exactly.

54 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Note: The system only compares match rules that are filled in. Empty fields are not
considered.

WARNING: When creating a calibration protocol, enter multiple match rules to

make sure the protocol is correctly matched with the image.
Automatic matching of images with the wrong calibration protocol
may lead to an incorrect dose distribution and incorrect treatment
of the patient.

4. Click OK.
A copy of the default protocol with three curves is created under the imaging device.
You can also copy an existing calibration protocol from another imaging device and modify it.

Modify a Calibration Protocol

1. Choose Beam Data or Beam Analysis > CT Calibration.
2. Select a CT scanner and a calibration protocol from the Imaging Devices list.

Note: You can only edit unapproved calibration protocols. If you wish to edit a
calibration protocol with any other status, change its status to unapproved first. When
you unapprove a calibration protocol, its calibration curves will also become
unapproved.

3. Under Calibration Protocol, click Edit Properties.

4. Edit the properties as needed.
If you edit the match rules (Protocol Name, kV, Image Type, Convolution Kernel or Rescale
Type), the approved calibration curves will become unapproved.

WARNING: Always test any changes to the calibration protocol match rules
before taking the calibration protocol into clinical use. Automatic
matching of images with the wrong calibration protocol may lead to
an incorrect dose distribution and incorrect treatment of the
patient.

5. Click OK to save your changes.

Remove or Retire a Calibration Protocol

1. Choose Beam Data > CT Calibration.
2. To permanently remove a calibration protocol from an imaging device, select the desired
protocol under an imaging device in the Imaging Devices list, and click Remove.
3. To disable a calibration protocol without deleting it permanently, select it, click Edit
Properties, and in the Status list, select Retired.
A retired calibration protocol can be restored later.

Note: A retired calibration protocol can contain approved calibration curves. Existing
images or plans assigned to the retired protocol can still be recalculated with the
approved curves of the retired protocol.

CT Calibration 55
 Edit the Calibration Curve
1. Choose Beam Data or Beam Analysis > CT Calibration.
2. Select a CT scanner and the calibration protocol from the Imaging Devices list to display its
calibration curves.
3. To modify a calibration curve:
a. Select the curve and click Edit Calibration Curve.
b. To view a point on the curve, click a value on the table.
You can also hover on the curve to see the values on it.
c. Modify the points if necessary, and click OK.

Note: You can only edit the calibration curves if the calibration protocol status is
unapproved or commissioning. If you wish to edit the curves of a calibration protocol
with any other status, change its status to unapproved first.

4. To revert to the previously saved values, click Reset.

5. To approve a calibration curve, click Approve.
6. To cancel the approval of a calibration curve, click Unapprove.
7. To view the previous modifications and approvals of the curve, click History.
8. Click OK.

Related Topics
Modify the Calibration Curve with the Curve Editor on page 56

Modify the Calibration Curve with the Curve Editor

1. To add a new point in the Curve Editor:
a. Click New Point.
b. In the box denoting the image value (for example, HU), type the value for the new point.
The image value is determined by the Rescale Type of the calibration protocol the curve
belongs to.

Note: Use only integer units for the image value.

56 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 c. In the Absolute Mass Density, Relative Electron Density, or Relative Stopping
Power box, type the value for the new point.

Note: In a CT calibration curve, the calibration of mass density is entered as

g/cm3, and the value for 0 HU should be between 0.75 and 2 g/cm3. The electron
density calibration is entered against the electron density of water and not in
absolute values. The proton stopping power calibration is entered as proton
stopping power ratio (SPR) and not in absolute values. The value for 0 HU
should be between 0.75 and 2 for both electron density and proton stopping
power. The minimum and maximum values for mass density, electron density or
proton stopping power are algorithm specific, more information: algorithm
reference guides. Entering incorrect values can lead to incorrect calculation
results.

d. Click OK to add the point to the curve.

2. To move a point, type a new value in its data cell.
3. To remove a point from the curve, click Delete Point.
Click Yes.

CT Calibration 57
Configuring Distributed Calculation Framework
and Calculation Models

Distributed Calculation Framework

Complex calculations in Eclipse, such as dose distribution calculation and dose volume
optimization, are performed using the Distributed Calculation Framework (DCF). The DCF offers
Eclipse the ability to calculate the dose or optimize using external processes. These processes
can run on the same workstation as Eclipse, on other platforms in the DCF network, or both.
The DCF increases the dose calculation speed, because calculation jobs can be performed on
multiple workstations and multiple processors simultaneously. For example, when dose
calculation of a multi-field treatment plan is initiated in External Beam Planning, Eclipse starts a
separate calculation thread for each field. In each calculation thread, Eclipse calls the required
calculation service. If there are no calculation resources available, the thread waits for the
resources to become available.

58 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Figure 11 Example of the DCF Environment

1. Eclipse clients 9. Distributor web port

2. Eclipse planning workstations 10. DCF Server/Distributor
3. Citrix client workstations 11. Data connections
4. Data and log connections 12. Log connections
5. Connections initiated by the Eclipse clients 13. Connections initiated by FAS and DCF Agents
6. Network 14. Framework Agent Server (FAS)
7. Data connections port 15. Agents
8. Log connections port 16. Distributed Calculation Framework

In the above example, Eclipse planning workstations contain a local calculation configuration file
that enables performing calculations on the workstation. In addition to local calculations, these
workstations can also perform remote calculations on other workstations connected to the DCF
network. Eclipse planning workstations also have an agent installed as a system service. Agents
enable Eclipses on other workstations to perform calculations on Eclipse planning workstations.
The agents use calculation configuration files located in the DCF folder on the DCF server.

Configuring Distributed Calculation Framework and Calculation Models 59

 Framework Agent Servers are used for calculations and have no Eclipse installed. An agent is
installed in each of the servers, which means that Eclipses on other workstations can perform
calculations on them. The agents use calculation configuration files located in the DCF folder on
the DCF server.
The DCF server contains a distributor and calculation configuration files used by agents in the
DCF network. The distributor is the central component that receives the calculation requests from
clients and allocates them to available calculation resources, such as calculation workstations
and FAS servers. The following configuration files are located in the DCF folder of the DCF
server:
● Calculation algorithms
● Beam data templates
● Configured beam data
● Global configuration files

Note: Custom configurations of network appliances, such as firewalls or routers may

terminate idle log connections, especially during large calculation jobs. This may lead to
the calculation not completing. If this happens, terminate and restart the calculation. If a
firewall is used in the DCF network, an application rule that prevents terminating idle log
connections may solve the problem.

The installation of an Eclipse system with the DCF includes the DCF server. The location of the
DCF server must be defined on each platform hosting Eclipse.

Defining the Distributed Calculation Framework Settings

There are two sets of settings, global settings and local settings, for the DCF:
● Global, or system-wide, settings are not user-specific and define the DCF configuration
parameters for all platforms hosting Eclipse that use the same DCF. Global configuration files
are stored on a DCF server.
● Local settings can override any global settings values and are used only on the workstation
where the override has been defined. By default, the configuration files are stored locally in a
workstation or in the user’s XenApp profile on the Citrix server. You can use the
Configuration Storage Manager to attach the local settings to your user profile, or to a
shared profile for multiple users. This enables you to use the same local settings also when
working on other workstations or Citrix servers.
Both global and local settings can be defined in Beam Configuration or External Beam
Planning. You need the proper user rights to define global and local calculation settings.

General DCF Settings

Note: When defining calculation settings, remember that changing a global calculation
setting affects every workstation or Citrix server connected to the same DCF server.
Local calculation settings override the global calculation settings on the current
workstation or Citrix server.

60 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Service connector type
Defines how the calculation is performed. The options are:
● LocalServiceConnector: Algorithms execute only on the local platform hosting the Eclipse
session.
● NetworkServiceConnector: Algorithms execute only on remote platforms supplying the
requested calculation service. This option is hard-coded for Citrix environments.
● HybridServiceConnector: Algorithms execute both on the local platform hosting the Eclipse
session and remote platforms supplying the requested calculation service.

Calculation models path

Defines the location of the CalculationModels.xml definition file that contains the configured
calculation models. Typically this is the shared directory \DCF$\client on the file server.

Default calculation models path

Defines the location of the DefaultCalculationModels.xml definition file that contains the default
calculation models. Typically this is the shared directory \DCF$\client on the file server. If the
setting is left empty, the Calculation models path is used.

Installed algorithms path

Defines the location of the InstalledAlgorithms.xml definition file that contains the installed
algorithms and their properties. Typically this is the shared directory \DCF$\client on the file
server.

Service configuration path

Defines the location of the ServiceConfiguration.xml definition file that contains the available
calculation resources. Typically this is the shared directory \DCF$\client on the file server.

Beam data root path

This setting is optional. Defines the directory where the beam data should be stored by default.
Typically this is the shared directory \DCF$\client on the file server. The setting only affects
the directory that is suggested when a new calculation model is created, it does not change any
existing definitions. Each calculation model may still define a different beam data location. If the
setting is left empty, the InstalledAlgorithmsPath\BeamData directory is used.

Algorithm templates root path

This setting is optional. Defines the location of beam data templates. Typically this is the shared
directory \DCF$\client\Templates on the file server. If the setting is left empty, the
InstalledAlgorithmsPath\Templates directory is used.

Beam data directory map path

This setting is optional. Defines overrides to data directories defined in CalculationModels.xml file.

Configuring Distributed Calculation Framework and Calculation Models 61

 Calculation Settings for DCF

Note: When defining calculation settings, remember that changing a global calculation
setting affects every workstation or Citrix server connected to the same DCF server.
Local calculation settings override the global calculation settings on the platforms hosting
Eclipse.

Monte carlo field parallelization factor

Some Monte Carlo algorithms, such as eMC, can calculate one field in several pieces. Each
piece uses different random number sequence and is processed on a different servant. If multiple
pieces can be processed in parallel, the time to calculate the field may be decreased significantly.
This setting determines how many pieces each field is divided into. Value 1 means that this
option is turned off.

Control point field parallelization factor

Some algorithms, such as AAA, can calculate a field with multiple control points in several pieces.
Each piece consists of 1 or more control points and is processed on a different calculation
processes. If multiple pieces can be processed in parallel, the time to calculate the field may be
decreased significantly. This setting determines how many calculation processes are started for
dose calculation.
Value 1 means that this option is turned off and a single DCF servant process will calculate all
control points within a field. If the control point field parallelization factor is set to a value larger
than 1, calculation work will be distributed to multiple calculation processes running in multiple
agent machines and calculations are processed in parallel. However, running calculation jobs in
multiple calculation processes causes more network traffic to the system and processing load for
the machine running Eclipse process. This is because all calculation processes require all CT
images as an input data to the calculations. This means that increasing the control point field
parallelization factor value does not necessarily lead to decrease of the total calculation time.
Moreover, too large value may cause many calculation processes to be allocated to a single
Eclipse user, and other users' calculations may be blocked while these calculation processes are
waiting input data from the Eclipse process. The optimal value of the control point field
parallelization factor depends on the number of DCF agent machines in the system, the
computing capabilities of the Eclipse platforms, network topology and computing capabilities of
Eclipse workstations/virtual machines. The system administrator should experiment with different
values before the system is taken into clinical use and search optimal value for the system in
question.

MCO plan generation parallelization factor

Defines the maximum number of optimization processes that run in parallel during the generation
of a plan collection for multi-criteria optimization. If multiple plans can be optimized in parallel, the
time to generate the plan collection may be decreased significantly.

62 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Angular resolution in standard arc, conformal arc and VMAT calculations
Defines the angular resolution in standard arc, conformal arc and VMAT calculations in degrees.
The setting is used to integrate the existing treatment unit control points into beams placed along
the arc at the defined interval. For conformal arc and VMAT fields, OFF means that the beams
used to calculate the arc coincide with the treatment unit control points. For standard arc fields,
OFF means that the angular resolution is 5 degrees.

Performance Settings for DCF

Note: When defining calculation settings, remember that changing a global calculation
setting affects every workstation or Citrix server connected to the same DCF server.
Local calculation settings override the global calculation settings on the platforms hosting
Eclipse.

Processor utilization limit

This setting is optional. The setting limits the number of locally running calculation processes so
that the combined expected processor utilization of those processes does not exceed this value.
The value is a percentage of the total number of processors in the machine. This setting has no
effect on remote calculations.

Physical memory utilization limit

This setting is optional. The setting limits the number of locally running calculation processes so
that the combined expected memory utilization of those processes does not exceed this value.
The value is a percentage of the total amount of physical memory in the machine. This setting
has no effect on remote calculations.

Max local servants

This setting is optional and only affect servant versions 8.1-8.6. Defines the maximum number of
local calculation processes that can be run concurrently. The optimal number depends on the
available resources. On a multi-core system with enough memory the value can be set to equal
the number of available cores. If the setting is left empty, the default value 1 is used.
For servant versions 8.8 and newer, the maximum number of local calculation processes is
dynamic and determined automatically by the system.

Max running calls

This setting is optional. Defines the maximum number of calls (separate calculation tasks) that
can run concurrently. The optimal number depends on the available resources. If the setting is left
empty, there is no limit.

Max running no wait calls

This setting is optional. Defines the maximum number of no-wait calls (separate calculation tasks)
that the service connector can run simultaneously. If the setting is left empty, the value 1 is used.

Configuring Distributed Calculation Framework and Calculation Models 63

 No wait call memory usage limit in MB
This setting is optional. Determines which service calls are no-wait calls. Service calls whose
expected memory usage falls below this limit are no-wait calls, the others are not. The default
value is 512.

Troubleshooting Settings for DCF

Note: When defining calculation settings, remember that changing a global calculation
setting affects every workstation or Citrix server connected to the same DCF server.
Local calculation settings override the global calculation settings on the platforms hosting
Eclipse.

Debug output
This setting is optional. If the value is set to true, the calculation processes send extra information
of their progress and actions during calculation. The setting should only be used for debug
purposes since it can have an adverse effect on the calculation performance, and the amount of
data sent can be very large. The debug logs are generated in a folder in
C:\VMSOS\Log\Application\RTM\DCF\. Each DCF request generates a new subfolder
named based on the date, time and logged user ([email protected]_UserName)
under the previously mentioned folder and detailed debug files are written to this folder. If the
value is set to false or left empty, no debug output is generated.

Data dump folder

This setting is optional. Defines a local directory path for storing a copy of all data items sent or
received during calculation. The setting should only be used for debug purposes since it has an
adverse effect on the calculation performance, and the amount of data stored to files can be very
large. If the setting is left empty, no data is dumped.

Log service execution info

This setting is optional. Controls if the calculation processes should send extra information of their
progress and memory usage after calculation. The information is stored to the debug log (see the
Debug output section above).

Long operation timeout

This setting is optional. Defines the timeout in seconds for lengthy DCF operations. This setting is
used in Eclipse Cone Planning application.

Short operation timeout

This setting is optional. Defines the timeout in seconds for quick DCF operations. This setting is
used in Eclipse Cone Planning application.

64 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Configure the Distributed Calculation Framework Settings
You need proper user rights to edit global calculation settings.
1. In External Beam Planning or Beam Configuration (Beam Data or Beam Analysis
workspace), choose Tools > Workstation Configuration.
2. Select the Settings for Distributed Calculation Framework tab.
3. To change the name of the DCF server or the path to the global client configuration file, click
Change and do one of the following:
● Select the Host name option and type the name of the DCF server in the text box, and
click OK.
● Select the Directory path option and either type the path or click Browse to locate the
path. When done, click OK.
4. Do one of the following:
● Click Edit global DCF settings.
Changing a global calculation option value affects every workstation or Citrix server
connected to the Distributed Calculation Framework.
● Click Edit local DCF settings.
Local calculation settings override the global calculation settings. If you leave a
calculation option value empty, the value defined in the global calculation settings is
used.
5. Select the desired calculation option group.
6. To change a calculation option value, type a new value in the text box, or click the down-
pointing arrowhead and select a new value.
7. To close the Client Configuration dialog box, click OK.
8. To close the Workstation Configuration dialog box, click OK.

Configuration Storage Manager

By default, the settings that you define in the Workstation Configuration dialog box are saved
locally on your workstation or on a Citrix server, except the global DFC settings are stored on a
Shared Framework Server. You can use the Configuration Storage Manager to store the local
DCF settings to your user profile or to a shared profile in the Shared Framework Server database.
This enables you to use the same local DCF settings also when working on other workstations, or
when connecting to other Citrix servers, provided that all workstations refer to the same Shared
Framework Server database.
In the Configuration Storage Manager, you can add, edit and remove rules for storing the
configuration settings. Each storage rule has a scope, for example “DCF settings” or “DCF
settings | Server”. The scope defines what the rule is meant for. If the scope of the rules overlaps,
the rules may become conflicting. If that happens, the first rule from the top that matches a
particular scope in the Configuration Storage Manager is applied. So the order of the rules
matters.
A configuration storage rule can have the following storage modes:
● Local workstation: Settings in the scope defined by the rule cannot be accessed from any
other workstation or Citrix server. This is the default storage mode if a scope does not have a
rule defined for it.

Configuring Distributed Calculation Framework and Calculation Models 65

 ● Shared system-wide profile: Settings in the scope defined by the rule are stored in the
Shared Framework Server database in a profile that can be shared by all users that use the
same Shared Framework Server database. Each user must have a storage rule that refers to
the same shared profile. All these users can access and edit the profile from all the
workstations or Citrix servers that refer to the same Shared Framework Server database.
● Private user profile: Settings in the scope defined by the rule are stored in the Shared
Framework Server database in your private user profile that others cannot access. You can
access the rule from all workstations or Citrix servers that refer to the same Shared
Framework Server database.

Manage Configuration Storage Rules

You can have configuration storage rules for local DCF settings and virtual simulation settings.
1. In External Beam Planning or Plan Evaluation, choose Tools > Workstation
Configuration.
2. Go to the Configuration Storage Manager tab.
3. To add a new storage rule, click Add Rule.
a. Select the scope for the storage rule from the Rule Scope drop-down list.
b. Select the mode for storing the rule from the Storage Mode drop-down list.
c. Give a name for the profile-based rules.
4. To edit a storage rule, select the rule and click Edit. Edit the information as necessary.
5. To remove a storage rule, select the rule and click Remove.
6. To change the order of the storage rules, select a rule and click Up or Down as necessary.
7. To save your changes and close the Configuration Storage Manager, click OK.
Modifications done in the Configuration Storage Manager are immediately visible in the
Distributed Calculation Framework and Virtual Simulation tabs. The modifications are
saved when you click OK in the Configuration Storage Manager.

Calculation Algorithms and Calculation Models

The configuration of the Distributed Calculation Framework defines the framework for
calculations. To be able to perform calculations in this framework using the calculation algorithms
installed, you need to configure each calculation algorithm installed on your treatment planning
system—for example, the Analytical Anisotropic Algorithm (AAA) or the Acuros External Beam
(Acuros XB) algorithm. The configuration involves linking the calculation algorithms with the
appropriate configured beam data. The result of this linkage is called a calculation model.
Several calculation models can be based on one calculation algorithm. Each calculation model
reads the beam data configured for it from a specific beam data directory.

Related Topics
Distributed Calculation Framework on page 58

66 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Configuring Calculation Models
The calculation models are shown and modified in the Calculation Models dialog box. You can
add new calculation models, rename them, change their versions, enable/disable them, remove
unnecessary calculation models, and configure calculation defaults.
When you remove a calculation model, all references from DCF to the calculation model are
deleted. This means that you need to create the calculation model again, if you want to use it.
When you disable a calculation model, the references from DCF to the calculation model are
kept, but the use of the calculation model is disabled. You can take a disabled calculation model
into use again by enabling it. Disabled calculation models are not displayed in the Context
Window.

Tip: Removing a calculation model does not remove the configured beam data folder for
the calculation model. If you wish to create the same calculation model, you need to use
a different name for the configured beam data folder.

The following information is shown for each calculation model in the dialog box:
● Model Name—Calculation model name. In cases where several calculation models are
defined for a particular beam energy, each model is identified by its name.
● Algorithm—Name of the algorithm on which the model is based.
● Version—Version of the algorithm on which the model is based.
The version denotes the version of the algorithm that is used by this calculation model.
Changing the version here does not update the configured beam data for this model. If the
beam data is incompatible with the new version of the algorithm, you must re-configure the
beam data.
Automatically created calculation models have the _Auto suffix, and the version information
also displays in parenthesis the name of model from which the beam data was copied. For
example, AAA_18.0.0(AAA_17.0.0)_Auto. Automatically created calculation models are not
enabled by default, and the beam data is not approved. You need to update an automatically
created calculation model to be able to use it.
● Beam Data Directory—Directory on the DCF server where the beam data of the calculation
model is stored.
● Particles—Particle type of the calculation model (photon, electron, proton). This information is
read from the installation file of the algorithm and cannot be modified.
● Calculation Types—Calculation capabilities of the calculation model (for example, volume
dose, compensator, optimization). This information is read from the installation file of the
algorithm and cannot be modified.

Related Topics
Update Calculation Models on page 70
File Hierarchy in Beam Configuration on page 73

Add Calculation Models to the Configuration

1. Choose Beam Data or Beam Analysis > Configure Calculation Models.
2. Click Add Model.

Configuring Distributed Calculation Framework and Calculation Models 67

 3. Type a descriptive name for the calculation model.
4. Select the algorithm that the new calculation model will be based on.
5. Do one of the following:
● To create beam data for the calculation model from scratch, select the Create new beam
data option.
● To copy beam data from another calculation model, select the Copy beam data from
existing calculation model option and select the existing calculation model from the list.
To limit the list of algorithms shown, select Only show compatible calculation models.

Note: This option also automatically updates the beam data.

● To use the beam data of another calculation model configured in the system, select the
Use same beam data as existing calculation model option and select the desired
calculation model from the list. To limit the list of algorithms shown in the list, select Only
show compatible calculation models.
● To copy the beam data from an old calculation model when upgrading data from an older
Eclipse, or a configured beam data folder of a calculation model not currently configured
in the Eclipse system, select the Copy beam data from old beam data directory option
and then type or navigate to the desired directory. Verify that the correct source folder is
always used.

Note: This option also automatically updates the beam data.

Note: If the selected old beam data has been configured in an earlier version of
Beam Configuration, you are prompted to update the data.

● In the Beam Data Directory text box, type the relative path of the directory where the
parameters from the selected existing algorithm are saved, navigate to the desired
directory, or use the path suggested.
6. To add the new calculation model, click Add.
If you selected the Copy beam data from existing calculation model option or the Copy
beam data from old beam data directory option, the beam data is updated, and a message
is shown describing which data types were modified in the update. Continue with the next
step.
Otherwise this is the last step and the calculation model is added.
7. Click Close in the message box describing which data types were modified in the update.
8. When prompted, do one of the following: To delete all calculated beam data, click Yes.
To keep the calculated beam data, click No.
9. In the message box prompting you to re-calculate all beam data, click OK.
10. Re-calculate the beam data.

Related Topics
Updating Beam Data Between Versions on page 70
File Hierarchy in Beam Configuration on page 73

68 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Rename Calculation Models
1. Choose Beam Data or Beam Analysis > Configure Calculation Models.
2. Click Rename.
3. Define the new name for the calculation model.
4. Click OK.

Note: If you have plans that are calculated using the previously named calculation
model and you want to recalculate these plans, you must recalculate them using the
new renamed calculation model.

Change the Version of the Algorithm for a Calculation Model

There is a newer version available of the calculation algorithm that is used by the calculation
model. You can update the version linked to a calculation model with the Configure Calculation
Models command. This will not change the configured beam data for this calculation model.
1. Choose Beam Data or Beam Analysis > Configure Calculation Models.
2. In the Calculation Models list, select the calculation model you wish to change.
3. Click Change.
4. Select the version of the algorithm to be used.

Note: The version denotes the version of the algorithm that is used by this
calculation model. Changing the version here does not update the configured beam
data for this model. If the beam data is incompatible with the new version of the
algorithm, you must re-configure the beam data.

5. Click OK.
6. To complete the version change, update the beam data using the Update Calculation Model
command, re-configure the beam data if necessary, and approve the beam data.

Related Topics
Update Calculation Models on page 70

Change the Default Calculation Options for a Calculation Model

1. Choose Beam Data or Beam Analysis > Configure Calculation Models.
2. Do one of the following:
● To modify the default calculation options, click Edit Default Options and make the
necessary changes .
● To return to the original calculation options, click Clear Default Options.
3. When completed, click OK.

Related Topics
Configuring Calculation Defaults on page 71

Configuring Distributed Calculation Framework and Calculation Models 69

 Remove Calculation Models from the Configuration
This action will not delete the beam data of the calculation model. When you remove a calculation
model, all references from DCF to the calculation model are deleted. When you disable a
calculation model, the references from DCF to the calculation model are kept, but the use of the
calculation model is disabled.
1. Choose Beam Data or Beam Analysis > Configure Calculation Models.
2. Click Remove Model.
3. Confirm the removal by clicking Yes.

Note: It is not possible to remove server side algorithm based models, such as
MSS Leaf Motion Calculator, Varian Leaf Motion Calculator, DVH Estimation, or
Smart LMC. To disable the use of these models, clear the Enabled check box.

Update Calculation Models

After changing the version of the calculation algorithm used by a calculation model with the
Configure Calculation Models command, you also need to update the configured beam data for
the calculation model, if the beam data is incompatible with the new version of the algorithm. Also
all automatically created calculation models need to be updated before they can be used.
1. Choose Beam Data > Update Calculation Models.
The versions of the calculation models and the version of the configuration program are read
from the server. The version data is shown in the Update Calculation Model dialog box. The
following symbols are used if the version data is not found:
● ***** = File is not found.
● - = Version number is not found in the file.
2. Select the row of the model to update and click Update.
The version of the selected calculation model is updated, and a message is shown describing
which data types were modified in the update.
3. Click Close.
4. When prompted, do one of the following: To delete all calculated beam data, click Yes.
To keep the calculated beam data, click No.
5. In the message box prompting you to re-calculate all beam data, click OK.
6. Re-calculate the beam data.

Related Topics
Change the Version of the Algorithm for a Calculation Model on page 69

Updating Beam Data Between Versions

You can update calculation models configured in earlier versions to the format used in the newer
version. The changes between versions concern the general parameters. The use of general
parameters depends on the particular calculation algorithm. For information on the calculation
algorithms, refer to Eclipse Photon and Electron Algorithms Reference Guide.

70 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Update Beam Data Configured in Earlier Versions

1. In the Configure Calculation Models dialog box, click Add Model to add a new calculation
model to use as a container for the updated beam data.
2. Type a descriptive name for the model.
3. Select the algorithm that the model will be based on.
4. Select the Copy beam data from existing calculation model option and select the existing
calculation model from the list.
To limit the list of algorithms shown in the list, select Only show compatible calculation
models.
The selected directory must contain the mapfile.txt file, which defines the treatment unit/
energy combination that each beam data subdirectory has been configured for. If the new
Eclipse version contains a treatment unit that has the same ID as the older version, the
correct beam data is automatically assigned to this treatment unit. Otherwise, you can
separately assign beam data for each treatment unit/energy combination.
5. Click Add.
6. When prompted, do one of the following: To delete all calculated beam data, click Yes.
To keep the calculated beam data, click No.
7. In the message box prompting you to re-calculate all beam data, click OK.
8. Re-calculate the beam data.

Related Topics
Assigning Beam Data on page 36
Add Calculation Models to the Configuration on page 67

Configuring Calculation Defaults

You can define the default calculation options for each calculation model. If there are several
calculation models configured for a beam energy type, you can define the default calculation
model for each radiation type.
The options that you can configure are specific to the calculation model. For description of the
calculation options, refer to Eclipse Photon and Electron Algorithms Reference Guide.

Configure Default Calculation Models

1. Choose Beam Data or Beam Analysis > Calculation Defaults.
2. To select the default calculation model for a particle type and calculation type, click the
appropriate row in the Default Model column and select the desired calculation model.
3. Click Close.

Configure Default Calculation Options for an External Beam Plan

1. Choose Beam Data or Beam Analysis > Calculation Defaults.
2. Click the Edit button on the row of the calculation model whose default options you wish to
change.

Configuring Distributed Calculation Framework and Calculation Models 71

 3. If necessary, select the desired calculation option group on the left side of the Calculation
Options dialog box.
4. Click the desired calculation option and do one of the following:
● Click the down-pointing arrow head and choose a new value for the calculation option.
● Type a new value for the calculation option in the text box.
5. To finish, click OK.
6. To close the Default Calculation Models and Options dialog box, click Close.

72 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

Appendix: Configured Data File System

File Hierarchy in Beam Configuration

The configuration files for each external beam treatment unit are located in separate subfolders
under the configuration folder (*\DCF$\client\BeamData\...) in the file server.
Each calculation model has a source folder that contains the general configuration data files.
Data for each configured beam is stored in subfolders under the calculation model source folder.
The name of the configured beam data folder is defined in the dispatcher initialization file during
the installation of the algorithm (the name is the same as the code of the configured beam data).

Table 8 Beam Configuration Folder Structure

*\DCF$\ Files created after Eclipse installation

*\DCF$\client\ Files related to DCF client configuration
*\DCF$\client\BeamData\ Calculation model files
*\DCF$\client\BeamData\AAA\ General data files of a calculation model
*\DCF$\client\BeamData\AAA\000\ Configured beam data files
*\DCF$\client\BeamDa- Configured beam data file
ta\AAA\000\xxx.xxx
*\DCF$\client\BeamDa- Configured beam data file
ta\AAA\000\xxx.xxx
*\DCF$\client\BeamData\AAA\001\ Configured beam data files
*\DCF$\client\BeamDa- Configured beam data file
ta\AAA\001\xxx.xxx
*\DCF$\client\BeamDa- Configured beam data file
ta\AAA\001\xxx.xxx
*\DCF$\client\BeamData\eMC General data files of a calculation model
*\DCF$\client\BeamData\eMC\000\ Configured beam data files
*\DCF$\client\BeamDa- Configured beam data file
ta\eMC\000\xxx.xxx
*\DCF$\client\BeamData\eMC\001\ Configured beam data files
*\DCF$\client\BeamDa- Configured beam data file
ta\eMC\001\xxx.xxx

The table describes the algorithm files that are created, edited and shown in Beam
Configuration and contained in the algorithm folders.

Configured Data File System 73

 Table 9 Algorithm Configuration Files

File Description
ConfigurationCalculationSpecification.xml

Status of configuration process, generated by

the configuration engine and data needed for
the configuration of the algorithm (definitions of
output and input files for all configuration
steps).
crcfile.crc Checksum value of the datafiles.crc.
datafiles.crc Checksum values of the configuration files.
DataStructureSpecification.xml

Data needed for the approval of add-on data.

datatypespecification.xml

Specification of the data types (such as curves

or profiles) required by a calculation model.
lockinginfo.txt Information about the user who last locked
(modified) calculation model files.
logfile.txt Names of the files created in the configuration,
generated by the configuration engine.
mapfile.crc Check sum for the mapfile.txt file.
mapfile.txt All treatment units configured for the algorithm
in use. Connects beam data with algorithm.
Managed by Beam Configuration.
stepfile.txt All steps required in the configuration of an al-
gorithm.
template.crc Checksum values of the template files.
Template.MODEL Calculation model parameters.
Template.PARAM General treatment unit and energy parameters.

Related Topics
Update Calculation Models on page 70
Distributed Calculation Framework on page 58

74 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 Map File in Beam Configuration
Each treatment unit and energy pair is identified by a machine code used to name the
configuration files. An add-on code separates accessory-specific configuration files from the
general treatment unit configuration files. These codes are described in the map file, which
contains all treatment units that are configured for a particular calculation model in use. Beam
Configuration manages the contents of the map file. References to the output files that are
created during the configuration of the calculation model are saved to the mapfile.

CAUTION: Do not use the computer operating system to edit or delete any files
used by the treatment planning application except when the use of the
files is detailed and supported in the user documentation of the
manufacturer of the treatment planning system.

Note: The contents of the map file are managed by Beam Configuration and should
not be modified using a text editor. If you encounter a need to modify the file, inform
Varian Medical Systems.

The filename of the map file is mapfile.txt. The syntax of the map file is described below. The
text is read from the syntax file of the beam data files.

Tag/Entry Value/Values, Each Value between Angle Brackets

Map file tags
$StartOfMapFile Beginning of the map file.
$EndOfMapFile End of map file.
Code set tags, repeated for each treatment unit and associated add-ons
$StartOfCodeSet Beginning of a code set section in a map file.
A code set lists the treatment unit code and all add-on codes re-
lated to the treatment unit. A code set describes the connection of
the configured beam data to the treatment unit and energy mode
in the Varian System database. One set of beam data can be
connected to multiple machines or energy modes. A code set also
describes the add-on data linked to each add-on. One set of add-
on data can be linked to multiple add-ons.
$EndOfCodeSet End of a code set section in a map file.
Machine Code: Data ID of the treatment unit and energy pair. For instance,
<006>.
Treatment Machine: Treatment machine ID and energy (photon and electron) or tech-
nique (proton). For instance, <Varian23><6x>.
AddOn: Data ID, approval timestamp and approver, and database ID of
each add-on. For instance, <00><14.02.2013 12:27:32
"UTC+02:00 FLE Standard Time"
"physicist"><OPENFIELD>.

Data set tags, repeated for each treatment unit and associated add-ons

Configured Data File System 75

 Tag/Entry Value/Values, Each Value between Angle Brackets
$StartOfDataSet Beginning of a data set section in a map file.
A data set describes the physical data files that belong to the con-
figured beam data. The beam data directory which contains the
files is always located in the same directory with the map file. Da-
ta files always belong to the beam data or to add-on beam data.
$EndOfDataSet End of a data set section in a map file.
Machine Code: Data ID of the treatment unit and energy pair. For instance,
<006>.
General Parameters: File name of the general parameters file (defining the geometrical
and radiation parameters of a treatment unit), approval timestamp
(date and time, approver, time zone, version of Beam
Configuration used for creating the file), approval status (<1> =
approved; <0> = unapproved) and checksum. For instance,
<006.PARAM> <ApproveTime="07.06.2013 12:21:45"
Approver="physicist" BCVer="7.2.14"
TimeZone="UTC+03:00 FLE Daylight
Time"><1><789124658>.
Model Parameters: File name of the parameters file (defining the calculation model
sprecific parameters), approval timestamp (date and time, approv-
er, time zone, version of Beam Configuration used for creating
the file), approval code and checksum. For instance,
<001.MODEL><ApproveTime="07.06.2013 12:21:45"
Approver="physicist" BCVer="7.1.66"
TimeZone="UTC+03:00 FLE Daylight
Time"><1><161343607>.

Other parameters, depend- Each entry contains the file name of the parameters file, approval
ing on the data type specifi- timestamp (date and time, approver, time zone, version of Beam
cation Configuration used for creating the file), approval code and
checksum.
AddOn: Data ID of the add-on. For instance, <00>.

Add-on entry, for instance, File name of the add-on file, approval timestamp (date and time,
<DPR>, or <WDD> approver, time zone), approval code and checksum. For instance,
DPR:<001_00_DPR.xml><ApproveTime="07.06.2013
12:21:45" Approver="physicist"
TimeZone="UTC+03:00 FLE Daylight
Time"><1><1892969726>

It is recommended to use unambiguous date and time formatting. This can be achieved with the
Region and Language settings in Windows. Using a format like dd MMM yyyy for short dates in
the Customize Format dialog box will produce unambiguous date displays for the English locale,
for instance, “05 Sep 2013”. Use either the 24-hour display or 12-hour display together with
am/pm designator from the operating system. By convention, noon is 12:00 p.m. and midnight is
12:00 a.m.

76 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 If you have beam data files configured and approved in a Beam Configuration version earlier
than 13.0, the files do not have the timestamps described in the table. The approval code used
prior to version 13.0 is of the following format: <0> = unapproved; <1> = approved. For instance,
the map file entry for a model parameters file using the earlier approval code: Model
Parameters:<000.MODEL><BCVer="7.1.66"><0><161343607>.

Configured Data File System 77

Index
A assigning to optimization calculation model
37
add-on assigning to treatment unit 36
adding 24 checksum 15, 17, 20, 38, 48
Administration 33 configured beam data 29
allowed types 24 all add-ons 30
automatic matching 33 individual add-on 29
Beam Configuration 33 copying 38
calculating configured data 29, 30 entire set 38
calculation parameters 36 individual curves 39
configuring 33 copying to dose calculation model 38
loading parameters from database 36 copying to optimization calculation model 38
matching and assigning data 34 editing configured 31
updating parameters between versions 70 exporting 42, 43
algorithm 67 curve data export files 42
beam data 66 curves 43
checksum 20, 67, 70 export files 42
resolve invalid checksum 21 importing
vs. calculation model 66 configured Eclipse beam data 27
application session measured 26
starting the first 14 managing 39
assigning beam data measurements 22
to dose calculation model 37 printing 40
to optimization calculation model 37 resolve invalid checksum 21
attenuation factor 33 saving 19
unapproving 48
updating between versions 70, 71
B
verifying configured 30
backup of dosimetric data 19
Beam Configuration
C
Beam Analysis workspace 16
Beam Data workspace 15 calculation (Beam Configuration)
configuration files 73 configured beam data 29
data flow 13 defaults 71
navigating in 16 dose 47
overview 13 calculation algorithm
starting 14 see algorithm
beam data calculation model (Beam Configuration) 67
adding container 24 adding 67
adding manually 28 configuring 67
adding measured 25 configuring parameters 36
adding new 23 default 71
analyzing 44 default calculation options 71
approving 48 loading parameters from database 36
assigning to dose calculation model 37 removing 70
updating parameters between versions 70

78 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

 see also algorithm importing from Eclipse 27
calculation option (Beam Configuration) managing 39
Beam Analysis 47 modifying beam data files 40
defaults 71 verifying 30
calculation parameter Context Window 17
configuring for add-ons 36 copying beam data
loading from database 36 to dose calculation model 38
calibration 51 to optimization calculation model 38
Calibration curve crcfile.crc file 73
editing 56 CT calibration
calibration protocol 51 changing 53
modify 55 editing calibration curve 56
remove 55 image values and electron density 53
retire 55 image values and mass densities 53
Calibration Protocol curve data
creating 54 export files 42
match rules 54 exporting 42, 43
checksum 15, 17, 38, 48, 67, 70 print-outs 32
overview 20 printing 40
resolve invalid checksum 21 Curve Editor
resolving 40 depth of dose maximum 32
unapprove beam data 21 editing calibration curve 56
configuration file modifying beam data curves 32
ConfigurationCalculationSpecification.xml overview 32
73 print-out 32
crcfile.crc 73
datafiles.crc 73
datafiles.txt 73 D
hierarchy of configuration files 73 data flow in Beam Configuration 13
lockinginfo.txt 73 datafiles.crc 73
logfile.txt 73 datafiles.txt file 73
mapfile.txt 73, 75 DCF (Distributed Calculation Framework)
progressfile.txt 73 calculation settings 62
structure of configuration files 73 configuration storage rules 65
template.crc 73 configuring global settings 65
Template.MODEL 73 configuring local settings 65
Template.PARAM 73 general settings 60
configuration storage manager 65 managing configuration storage rules 66
managing storage rules 66 overview 58
configuration storage rules 65 performance settings 63
ConfigurationCalculationSpecification.xml file 73 settings 60
configured beam data troubleshooting settings 64
calculating 29 department
all add-ons 30 view for user 15
individual add-on 29 depth dose (Beam Configuration)
clearing 40 adding data manually 28
comparing with calculated dose 44 editing dmax manually 32
deleting 40 normalizing comparison 48
editing 31, 32 Distributed Calculation Framework

Index 79
 see DCF (Distributed Calculation L
Framework)
dose linear attenuation
checksum 20, 21 configuring 33
dose (Beam Configuration) local calculation settings 60
calculating 47 calculation 62
calculation in Beam Analysis 44 general 60
checksum 15, 17, 38, 48 performance 63
comparing with configured beam data 44 trouleshooting 64
dose calculation lockinginfo.txt file 73
see calculation (Beam Configuration) logfile.txt file 73
dosimetric leaf gap 33
M
E
mapfile.txt file 73, 75
electron density mass density and image values 53
calibration 53 matching
conversion formula 53 add-on data 34
converting image values 53 automatic 34
electron density and image values 53 measured beam data
exporting adding 25
beam data 42, 43 adding manually 28
beam data export files 42 importing 26
curve data 42, 43
curve data export files 42
N
navigating in workspaces 16
F
normalization (Beam Configuration)
Focus Window 17 compared depth doses 48
configuring options 67

G
P
general parameters
defining for add-ons 22 profile data
updating between versions 70, 71 adding manually 28
global calculation settings 60 printing 40
calculation 62 progressfile.txt file 73
general 60 publication
performance 63 intended audience 8
troubleshooting 64
S
I
Scope Window 17
information in this guide 8 starting application
intended audience first session 14
publication 8
intended use of product 8

80 Beam Configuration Reference Guide

T
table data
interpolating 29
template.crc file 73
Template.MODEL file 73
Template.PARAM file 73
transmission
configuring 33
treatment unit
assigning beam data 36
copying beam data to 38
defining parameters for beam configuration
22
treatment units
selecting 14

U
unapproving
beam data 21, 48
user
view department of 15

V
verification
configured beam data 30
using ASCII format 42
using W2DAC format 42
visual cues 9

Index 81