GATE 10 Monte Carlo particle transport simulation -- Part I: development and new features

TL;DR

GATE 10 introduces a major update to the open-source Monte Carlo simulation tool for medical physics, featuring a Python interface, improved performance, and collaborative development support, enhancing its utility for research and industrial applications.

Contribution

This paper presents the development of GATE 10 with new features like a Python interface, multithreading, and library embedding, advancing its capabilities over previous versions.

Findings

Enhanced user interface with Python support

Improved multithreading and multiprocessing performance

Framework for collaborative development

Abstract

We present GATE version 10, a major evolution of the open-source Monte Carlo simulation application for medical physics, built on Geant4. This release marks a transformative evolution, featuring a modern Python-based user interface, enhanced multithreading and multiprocessing capabilities, the ability to be embedded as a library within other software, and a streamlined framework for collaborative development. In this Part 1 paper, we outline GATE's position among other Monte Carlo codes, the core principles driving this evolution, and the robust development cycle employed. We also detail the new features and improvements. Part 2 will detail the architectural innovations and technical challenges. By combining an open, collaborative framework with cutting-edge features, such a Monte Carlo platform supports a wide range of academic and industrial research, solidifying its role as a critical tool for innovation in medical physics.