Flexible and Generic Framework for Complex Nuclear Medicine Scanners using FreeCAD/GDML Workbench

TL;DR

This paper presents a flexible, integrated CAD and simulation framework using FreeCAD and GDML Workbench for designing complex nuclear medicine scanners, improving precision and efficiency in modeling and testing.

Contribution

It introduces a novel integration of FreeCAD and GDML Workbench for complex geometry design and simulation in nuclear imaging, enabling more intricate and customizable scanner development.

Findings

Successful creation of complex geometries for PET and SPECT scanners.

Demonstrated precise simulation capabilities with Geant4.

Enhanced design efficiency and versatility in nuclear imaging components.

Abstract

The design of nuclear imaging scanners is crucial for optimizing detection and imaging processes. While advancements have been made in simplistic, symmetrical modalities, current research is progressing towards more intricate structures, however, the widespread adoption of computer-aided design (CAD) tools for modeling and simulation is still limited. This paper introduces FreeCAD and the GDML Workbench as essential tools for designing and testing complex geometries in nuclear imaging modalities. FreeCAD is a parametric 3D CAD modeler, and GDML is an XML-based language for describing complex geometries in simulations. Their integration streamlines the design and simulation of nuclear medicine scanners, including PET and SPECT scanners. The paper demonstrates their application in creating calibration phantoms and conducting simulations with Geant4, showcasing their precision and versatility in generating sophisticated components for nuclear imaging. The integration of these tools is expected to streamline design processes, enhance efficiency, and facilitate widespread application in the nuclear imaging field.