Method and system for calorimetry probe

A method of measuring a radiation dose comprising:

• providing a calorimeter comprising:
• a core providing a predetermined absorption cross-section to a predetermined radiation type;
• a jacket surrounding the core to provide thermal isolation of the core from the ambient environment;
• a first thermal barrier composed of an aero-gel based material disposed between the core and the jacket;
• and
• a first temperature dependent resistor thermally coupled to the core;
• measuring the temperature dependent resistor during application of a dose of radiation according to a predetermined regimen;
• and
• determining the radiation dose in dependence upon at least the measurements of the temperature dependent resistor and a conversion factor relating to the calorimeter.

A method of verifying a radiotherapy regimen comprising:

• establishing a predetermined radiotherapy regimen;
• determining with a microprocessor an expected temperature profile for a calorimeter of predetermined design exposed to the radiotherapy regimen;
• measuring the temperature profile of a physical calorimeter of the predetermined design when exposed to a radiation source operating according to the predetermined radiotherapy regimen;
• determining with the microprocessor a decision in dependence upon at least the expected temperature profile and measured temperature profile;
• wherein the physical calorimeter of the predetermined design comprises:
• a core providing a predetermined absorption cross-section to a predetermined radiation type;
• a jacket surrounding the core to provide thermal isolation of the core from the ambient environment;
• a first thermal barrier composed of an aero-gel based material disposed between the core and jacket;
• and
• a first temperature dependent resistor thermally coupled to the core.