SAGA HEAVY ION MEDICAL ACCELERATOR IN TOSU (SAGA HIMAT)

At SAGA HIMAT, Kyushu’s first heavy-ion cancer treatment facility, the architectural design—which includes the layout of treatment equipment known as “beamlines”—was integrated with Nikken’s proprietary radiation (high-energy neutron) shielding design. This approach enabled the creation of a facility layout that brings in abundant natural light from a “pocket garden” (light court) even within the radiation-controlled area. Furthermore, by using standard steel doors—rather than heavy shielded doors—between the treatment hall and the treatment rooms, the facility achieves a balance of safety, cost-effectiveness, and comfort.