Integrated QJET and Q0 rod set sharing the same rod diameter and RF potential

Abstract

In one aspect, an ion guiding assembly for use in a mass spectrometry system is disclosed that includes a first plurality of multipole rods arranged to allow ions to pass therebetween, a second plurality of multipole rods arranged to allow ions to pass therebetween, and a plate disposed between the first plurality of rods and the second plurality of rods, the plate including an ion lens. The first plurality of rods and the second plurality of rods are coupled to the plate, and rods of the first plurality of rods are pairwise aligned with and coupled to rods of the second plurality of rods.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 000,346, filed March 26, 2020, entitled “Integrated QJet and Q0 Rodsets Sharing the Same Rod Diameters and RF Potential,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This teaching generally relates to integrated ion guiding components used in mass spectrometers for guiding ions received from an ion source to the downstream region of the mass spectrometer. Background Technology

[0004] Mass spectrometry (MS) is an analytical technique used to measure the mass-to-charge ratio of molecules, with both qualitative and quantitative applications. MS can be useful for identifying unknown compounds, determining the structure of specific compounds by observing their fragments, and quantifying the amount of specific compounds in a sample. Since mass spectrometers detect chemical entities as ions, a transformation from analyte to charged ions must occur during sample processing.

[0005] In some mass spectrometers, ion optics are used to introduce ions from an ion source into the mass spectrometer. For example, in some quadrupole mass spectrometers, an initial ion optics (referred to herein as a QJet ion optics) comprising four rods arranged in a quadrupole configuration is used to capture ions generated by an upstream ion source (e.g., an atmospheric pressure ion source) and focus these ions into a subsequent ion optics (referred herein as a Q0 ion optics), which comprises four quadrupoles positioned in a lower-pressure chamber and separated from the QJet ion optics via ion lenses.

[0006] Conventional ion-guided optics can be expensive to manufacture and time-consuming to clean after use. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In one aspect, an ion guiding assembly for use in a mass spectrometry system is disclosed, comprising a first plurality of multipoles arranged to allow ions to pass through therebetween, a second plurality of multipoles arranged to allow ions to pass through therebetween, and a plate disposed between the first plurality of poles and the second plurality of poles, the plate including an ion lens. The first plurality of poles and the second plurality of poles are coupled to the plate, and poles in the first plurality of poles are paired with and coupled to poles in the second plurality of poles.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first plurality of multipoles and the second plurality of multipoles are electrically connected in pairs. In some other embodiments, the first plurality of multipoles and the second plurality of multipoles are electrically insulated from each other.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first plurality of multipoles and the second plurality of multipoles have a substantially cylindrical shape. In some such embodiments, the first plurality of multipoles and the second plurality of multipoles have substantially the same diameter.

[0010] In some embodiments, a first plurality of multipoles and a second plurality of multipoles are electrically coupled to the same radio frequency (RF) voltage source. In some embodiments, the first plurality of multipoles and the second plurality of multipoles are electrically coupled to different radio frequency (RF) voltage sources.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first plurality of multipoles and the second plurality of multipoles are electrically coupled to the same direct current (DC) voltage source. In some other embodiments, the first plurality of multipoles and the second plurality of multipoles are electrically coupled to different direct current (DC) voltage sources.

[0012] In some embodiments, a first plurality of multipoles and a second plurality of multipoles are aligned in pairs and physically connected to each other via a plate through a plurality of conductive or electrically insulating connectors (e.g., posts / screws). For example, the connectors may be formed of a suitable conductive material (e.g., copper) or an insulating polymeric material such as PEEK (polyetheretherketone). Using a common connecting post can allow two sets of multipoles to be maintained at the same potential (e.g., when the connecting post provides a conductive path between the two sets of multipoles) or at different potentials (e.g., when the connecting post electrically insulates the two sets of multipoles from each other).

[0013] In some embodiments, the entire body of the connector may be made of a conductive or insulating material. In other embodiments, the connector may be made partly of a conductive material and partly of an electrically insulating material. In some embodiments, a first plurality of rods and a second plurality of rods are aligned in pairs and physically connected to each other via a plurality of threaded metal connectors (e.g., connectors made of copper).

[0014] In some embodiments, the connector (e.g., a plurality of metal rods) has a length in the range of approximately 60 mm to approximately 75 mm.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first plurality of rods and the second plurality of rods are aligned and physically connected to each other via a male-to-female or female-to-female threaded connection through a plate.

[0016] In some embodiments, each of the first plurality of multipoles and the second plurality of multipoles includes four poles arranged in a four-pole configuration. In other embodiments, the first plurality of multipoles and the second plurality of multipoles may have other configurations, such as a six-pole configuration. In some embodiments, the first plurality of poles and the second plurality of poles are evenly spaced apart from each other.

[0017] In some embodiments, a plate is deployed at an opening between two vacuum chambers, one of which contains a first set of multipole rods and the other contains a second set of multipole rods, and the plate is configured to provide a vacuum seal between the chambers. In some such embodiments, the plate includes a surface configured to provide a vacuum seal (referred to herein as a sealing surface). In some such embodiments, the surface is electroplated.

[0018] In some embodiments, the sealing surface of the plate includes a smooth gold surface that can mate with a groove or O-ring, Bal seal, or sealing gasket disposed in the inner surface of the housing of the ion guiding assembly.

[0019] In some embodiments, the board may include one or more feedthroughs (also referred to herein as conductive traces) that can be used to apply RF and / or DC signals to the rod.

[0020] In some embodiments, a second ion lens is deployed downstream of an ion lens deployed in the plate. In some such embodiments, the second ion lens is deployed in the substrate. In some embodiments, a plurality of extension rods extend from the plate to the substrate in which the second ion lens is deployed, for coupling the plate to the second ion lens, and thus to the substrate.

[0021] In some embodiments, a plurality of directional slots are deployed on at least one surface of the plate such that when aligned and physically connected to each other, a first plurality of multipole rods and a second plurality of multipole rods engage the plurality of directional slots.

[0022] In some embodiments, the plate includes one or more feedthroughs configured to provide one or more electrical connections to a second ion lens. The feedthroughs may include one or more pillars extending between the plate and the second ion lens. The one or more pillars may position the second ion lens within the substrate. In some embodiments, the one or more pillars may apply pressure to the second ion lens against the substrate. In some embodiments, the one or more pillars are configured to apply a sealing pressure between the plate and the substrate.

[0023] The board can be formed from a variety of materials, including polymeric materials. Some examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, FR4, Rogers materials, and / or prepreg materials.

[0024] In some embodiments, the board includes multiple layers that can be bonded together, such as two, three or more layers.

[0025] In a related aspect, a method for disassembling an ion guiding assembly from a mass spectrometry system is disclosed. This method includes decoupling radio frequency (RF) and direct current (DC) signal feedthroughs, and mechanically removing the ion guiding assembly. The ion guiding assembly includes a first plurality of rods arranged to allow ions to pass through therebetween, a second plurality of rods arranged to allow ions to pass through therebetween, and a plate disposed between the first and second plurality of rods. The plate includes a lens. The first and second plurality of rods are coupled to the plate, and the first plurality of rods are paired and coupled to the second plurality of rods. In some embodiments, the rods may be electrically in contact with each other in pairs.

[0026] In a related aspect, an ion guiding assembly for use in a mass spectrometry system is disclosed, comprising an aperture plate having an orifice for receiving ions from an ion source, the aperture plate including a plurality of electrical connectors for coupling to one or more voltage sources. The ion guiding assembly also includes a first set of multipoles extending proximal to distal and arranged to allow ions to pass through therebetween, and a second set of multipoles extending proximal to distal and arranged to allow ions to pass through therebetween. A plate is deployed between the first set and the second set of multipoles, the plate having a plurality of openings through which the first set and the second set of multipoles are paired and connected to each other, the plate including a first ion lens and at least one electrical trace for applying a voltage to the first ion lens. A first conductive rod electrically couples the first electrical connector of the aperture plate's electrical connectors to the electrical trace for transmitting a voltage from at least one of the voltage sources to the first ion lens. The first conductive rod is configured to physically connect the aperture plate to the plate for structurally maintaining the plate relative to the aperture plate. In some embodiments, multiple connectors are used to connect the distal end of a first set of multipole rods to the proximal end of a second set of multipole rods. While in some embodiments the connectors are conductive, in other embodiments they may be electrically insulating.

[0027] In some embodiments, a substrate is deployed near the distal end of a second set of multipole rods, providing a recess for receiving a second ion lens. In some embodiments, the second ion lens may include two opposing front conductive surfaces and a rear conductive surface, and an aperture extending between the front and rear conductive surfaces to allow ions to pass through.

[0028] In some embodiments, the ion guiding assembly may further include a pair of conductive rods, wherein one of the conductive rods electrically couples a second electrical connector of the electrical connectors of the aperture plate to the front conductive surface of the second lens, and the other conductive rod electrically couples a third electrical connector of the electrical connectors to the rear conductive surface of the second ion lens, for applying a voltage difference across the front and rear conductive surfaces of the second ion lens. This pair of conductive rods not only provides a conductive path for applying voltage to the ion lens of the ion guiding assembly, but they also physically connect the aperture plate to the substrate via two openings in the plate, for structurally maintaining the aperture plate, the plate, and the substrate relative to each other.

[0029] In some embodiments, one or more additional rods serve only to provide additional structural support (rather than a conductive path) to the ion guiding assembly. As an example, such a rod may extend from an aperture plate to a substrate via one or more openings in the plate. More specifically, in some such embodiments, the proximal and distal ends of such a rod may be physically connected to the aperture plate and substrate, respectively, via one or more openings in the aperture plate and substrate, by means of one or more screws and / or friction engagement.

[0030] The multipole employed in the ion guiding assembly according to this teaching can have various different configurations. By way of example, in some embodiments, the multipole can be arranged in a quadrupole configuration, while in other embodiments, the multipole can be arranged in a hexarupole configuration.

[0031] Furthermore, in many embodiments, the first set and the second set of multipole bars may have substantially the same diameter. Additionally, in some embodiments, the first set and the second set of multipole bars may have substantially the same internal spacing between the bars.

[0032] A further understanding of various aspects of the invention can be obtained by referring to the following detailed description in conjunction with the associated drawings briefly described below. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 An integrated ion guiding assembly according to an embodiment of this teaching is schematically depicted.

[0034] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram depicts a partially exploded schematic view of the integrated ion guiding assembly.

[0035] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Another exploded partial schematic view of the integrated ion guiding assembly depicted in the image.

[0036] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Another exploded partial schematic view of the integrated ion guiding assembly depicted in the image.

[0037] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of the ion guiding assembly depicted in the image.

[0038] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 Partial anatomical view of the ion guiding component.

[0039] Figure 7 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of two rods of each of the first and second multipole rods used in the ion guiding assembly according to the embodiment, and two connectors that connect the rods of the first assembly to the rods of the second assembly in pairs.

[0040] Figure 8 The diagram schematically depicts a plate used in an ion guiding assembly according to this teaching, wherein a first set and a second set of multipoles connected to each other by the plate can be formed in multiple layers in some embodiments.

[0041] Figure 9A and Figure 9B The diagram schematically depicts electrical traces set in the plate for applying voltage to an ion lens incorporated within the plate.

[0042] Figure 10A The diagram shows electrical traces disposed in a plate for applying voltage to an ion lens incorporated in a substrate located downstream of the plate via a pair of conductive rods.

[0043] Figure 10B The diagram shows electrical traces arranged on the board for applying voltage to the multipole assembly.

[0044] Figure 11 The front surface of the IQ1 lens is schematically depicted.

[0045] Figure 12 The rear surface of the IQ1 lens is schematically depicted.

[0046] Figure 13 The internal electrical traces used to apply voltage to the conductive surface of the IQ1 lens are schematically depicted.

[0047] Figure 14A An ion guiding assembly according to another embodiment of this teaching is schematically depicted.

[0048] Figure 14B yes Figure 14A Another schematic view of the ion guiding assembly shown.

[0049] Figure 14C yes Figure 14A A cross-sectional view of the ion guiding assembly depicted in the image.

[0050] Figure 14D Is Figure 14A and Figure 14B A schematic view of the front of the orifice plate used in the ion guiding assembly shown.

[0051] Figure 14E yes Figure 14A The partial schematic view of the ion guiding assembly shown depicts two sets of multipoles employed in the QJet and Q0 regions.

[0052] Figure 14F The back of the orifice plate is schematically depicted.

[0053] Figure 14G The front of the orifice plate is schematically depicted.

[0054] Figure 15 yes Figure 14A A schematic exploded view of the ion guiding assembly depicted in the image.

[0055] Figure 16 An example of a connecting rod suitable for use in the practice of this teaching is schematically depicted, which includes a conductive core and an electrically insulating shell surrounding the core.

[0056] Figure 17 A mass spectrometer is schematically depicted, incorporating an ion guiding assembly according to this teaching, and

[0057] Figure 18 As shown in some embodiments, the rods may have machined steps at their ends to facilitate coupling to openings (e.g., openings provided in plates or orifice plates). Detailed Implementation

[0058] This teaching provides an integrated ion guiding assembly suitable for use in various mass spectrometers, which integrates two sets of multipole rods within the same unit. In many embodiments, the two sets of multipole rods are directly paired and coupled to each other via multiple connectors (e.g., threaded metal rods, for example, via male-to-female or male-to-male connections) through openings provided in a plate. In some embodiments, the rods of the two multipole rod sets are joined together such that pressure applied to the base of the rods presses them into lenses (referred to herein as IQ0 lenses) provided in the plate and allows for simultaneous sealing, alignment, and electrical connection. In some embodiments, the rods have small machined steps at their ends, which facilitate mounting the rods in and aligning with copper-plated through-holes in the plate, which may be formed, for example, from Rogers material.

[0059] As discussed in more detail below, the integrated ion guiding assembly according to this teaching may include another ion lens (referred to herein as the IQ1 lens) located in a recess in a substrate positioned downstream of a plate. In some embodiments, multiple electrical traces (also referred to herein as feedthroughs) disposed in the plate may allow voltage to be applied to the IQ1 lens via multiple conductive (metallic) rods coupled at one end to those traces and at the other end to the IQ1 lens. In some embodiments, such conductive rods not only provide electrical connection to the IQ1 lens, but they may also be used to position the lens in an IQ1 holder, apply pressure to the lens for sealing, and help to accurately separate the IQ1 lens from the ends of the Q0 rods.

[0060] The integrated ion guiding assembly according to this teaching allows the entire QJet / IQ0 / Q0 / IQ1 assembly to be removed as a single unit. This provides numerous advantages, as discussed in more detail below. For example, in one embodiment, the integrated ion guiding assembly can be formed as a disposable unit that can be discarded after use, rather than being cleaned and reused.

[0061] Various terms are used herein according to their common meaning in the art. As used herein, the term “approximately” indicates a variation of up to 5% around a numerical value. As used herein, the term “substantially” indicates a variation of up to 5% relative to the full state or condition.

[0062] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9A , Figure 9B , Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 The integrated ion guiding assembly 100 used in a mass spectrometer according to an embodiment includes a first plurality of multipole rods 102a, 102b, 102c, and 102d (also collectively referred to herein as rods 102 or QJet rods) aligned in pairs and coupled to each other via a plate 106, and a second plurality of multipole rods 104a, 104b, 104c, and 104d (also collectively referred to herein as rods 104 or Q0 rods), as discussed in more detail below. In this embodiment, each of the QJet rods and Q0 rods extends from a proximal end (PE) to a distal end (DE).

[0063] In this embodiment, the QJet and Q0 bars are positioned relative to each other in a quadrupole configuration, wherein the internal space between the bars provides a channel for ions to pass through. Additionally, in this embodiment, the QJet and Q0 bars have substantially the same diameter and internal spacing between them. As discussed in more detail below, applying radio frequency (RF) and direct current (DC) voltages to the QJet and Q0 quadrupoles allows the generation of a narrow and highly focused ion beam for transmission to a component of the mass spectrometer downstream of the integrated ion guiding assembly 100. In some embodiments, the QJet and Q0 bars may be substantially cylindrical, with diameters ranging from approximately 2 mm to approximately 10 mm.

[0064] Plate 106 includes a plurality of openings 108a / 108b / 108c / 108d (collectively referred to herein as openings 108) through which the QJet rod can be coupled to the Q0 rod. For example, in this embodiment, a plurality of connectors 109a / 109b / 109c / 109d (collectively referred to herein as connectors 109) extend between the distal end of the QJet rod and the proximal end of the Q0 rod through the openings 108 in the plate for physically connecting the QJet rod to the Q0 rod. Various connectors can be used. By way of example, in some embodiments the connectors are conductive, while in other embodiments the connectors are non-conductive (electrically insulating). For example, in some embodiments, threaded metal screws (e.g., formed of stainless steel, aluminum, copper or other suitable metals) can be used.

[0065] refer to Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 In this embodiment, connector 109 is in the form of a post with an end having an external thread 110 that engages with an internal thread in an opening 111 located at the distal and proximal ends of the QJet and Q0 rods, respectively, for physically coupling the QJet rod to the Q0 rod. While the connector provides a male-to-female connection in this embodiment, in other embodiments, the connector may provide a female-to-female connection. In some embodiments, a threaded rod may be constructed in at least one of the QJet or Q0 rods and may provide a male-to-female connection.

[0066] As discussed below, in some embodiments, conductive connectors are employed that allow the same RF and / or DC voltages to be applied to the QJet and Q0 bars using the same RF and / or DC source. For example, in some such embodiments, the conductive connector ensures that applying a voltage (e.g., DC and / or RF voltage) to one set of bars (e.g., QJet) results in the other set of bars also being at that voltage. In other embodiments, the connector may be electrically insulated to allow different RF and / or DC voltages to be applied to the QJet and Q0 bars.

[0067] refer to Figure 8 The plate 106 can be made of multiple layers, for example, in this embodiment it is three layers, including an outer layer 106a, a middle layer 106b and an inner layer 106c. Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown, in this embodiment, an ion lens 107 (also referred to herein as an IQ0 lens) is deployed in the middle layer of the board. The ion lens 107 includes a conductive front surface 107a and a conductive rear surface 107b. Two electrical traces 107c and 107d electrically couple the front and rear surfaces of the ion lens 107 to two pins of the connector 10 disposed on the front layer of the board, allowing a voltage difference to be applied to the front and rear conductive surfaces of the ion lens 107. The ion lens 107 includes electroplated vias 109 (which may be plated, for example, with gold, enig (nickel-immersed gold), or copper) that allow ions to pass through.

[0068] The various layers of the board can be formed from a variety of suitable polymeric materials. For example, the board can be formed from FR4, Rogers materials, and / or prepreg materials.

[0069] In some embodiments, the plate may be configured to provide a seal between a chamber in which a QJet bar is deployed and another chamber in which a QO bar is deployed. For example, in this embodiment, plate 106 includes a peripherally smooth gold surface, and an O-ring located in a recess in the housing of the vacuum chamber mates with this surface to seal the two chambers relative to each other (i.e., the chamber in which the QJet bar and QO bar are positioned).

[0070] Another ion lens 112 (also referred to herein as the IQ1 lens) is deployed downstream of plate 106 to focus ions as they pass through the Q0 region (i.e., the volume enclosed by the Q0 bar) into a region of the mass spectrometer positioned downstream of the Q0 region. Reference Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 The ion lens 112 includes a front conductive surface 112a and a rear conductive surface 112b, as well as an aperture 112c through which ions pass through the lens. In addition, the ion lens 112 includes a plurality of tabs 113a, 113b, 113c and 113d (collectively referred to herein as lateral extensions, wings or tabs 113).

[0071] Continue to refer to Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 13Conductive element 114a is disposed on terminal block 113c, which is electrically coupled to conductive radial trace 114b, which in turn is electrically coupled to the front conductive surface 112a of ion lens 112. Similarly, conductive element 116a is disposed on terminal block 113a, which is electrically coupled to radial extension 116b, which in turn is electrically coupled to the rear conductive surface 112b of ion lens 112. RF and / or DC voltages can be applied to the conductive front and rear surfaces of ion lens 112 via connectors and electrical traces 114a / 114b / 116a / 116b to excite the ion lens for focusing ions through its aperture.

[0072] Now for reference Figure 10A and Figure 10B The outer layer 106a of board 106 includes multiple electrical traces 118a, 118b, 118c, and 118d (collectively referred to herein as electrical trace 118), which are electrically coupled to inner electrical traces 120a, 120b, 120c, and 120d (collectively referred to herein as inner trace 120). These inner electrical traces are further coupled to pins of electrical connector 10 for receiving voltages (e.g., RF and / or DC voltages) and transmitting those voltages to QJet rod 102. In some embodiments where connector 109 coupling QJet rod 102 to Q0 rod 104 is conductive, these connectors transmit applied voltage(s) to Q0 rod 104.

[0073] refer to Figure 1 The ion lens 112 is located in a conical cloverleaf-shaped recess 200a provided in the substrate 200, which accommodates a sealing O-ring, and the IQ1 lens can be located abutting against the sealing O-ring.

[0074] For example, Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a plurality of connecting rods 210a / 210b / 210c / 210d (collectively referred to herein as struts or extension rods or connecting rods 210) physically connect plate 106 to ion lens 112, and thus to substrate 200 in which ion lens 112 is located. Each of the connecting rods 210 extends from a proximal end (PE) to a distal end (DE). Additionally, each connecting rod 210 includes an opening with internal threads (such as openings 211 and 212 and corresponding internal threads 211a and 211b) at each of its proximal and distal ends for engagement with fasteners (e.g., screws), as discussed in more detail below.

[0075] For example, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, a plurality of openings 140a / 140b / 140c / 140d (collectively referred to herein as openings 140) are provided in plate 106, and a plurality of connecting screws 150a / 150b / 150c / 150d (collectively referred to herein as connecting screws 150) having external threads can engage with internal threads provided at the proximal end of connecting rod 210 through the plurality of openings in order to secure these rods to plate 106.

[0076] In addition, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, multiple threaded metal connectors 160a / 160b / 160c / 160d (collectively referred to herein as threaded connectors 160) are deployed on the tabs 113 of the IQ1 lens 112, which can engage with internal threads provided at the distal end of the connecting rod 210, thereby physically connecting the plate 106 to the lens 112. The connecting rod 210 can apply pressure to each of the tabs 113 on the IQ1 lens to provide a sealing force. In some embodiments, the connecting rod 210 is long enough (e.g., in the range of approximately 65 mm to approximately 110 cm) to accommodate tabs with a deflection of approximately 300-500 micrometers to facilitate a seal of the IQ1 lens. The tabs may have machined recesses behind them, allowing them to effectively act as springs.

[0077] In this embodiment, the separation of plate 106 from substrate 200 positions the distal end of quadrupole 104 within a few millimeters of the top conductive surface of ion lens 112.

[0078] In this embodiment, at least two of the connecting rods 210 are formed of a conductive material to transmit voltage to the conductive surface of the IQ1 lens via metal traces and threaded metal connectors 160 disposed in the substrate 200. More specifically, refer to Figure 10A Two conductive traces 220a / 220b can receive voltage from the two pins of the electrical connector 10 and apply those voltages to the tabs 113a and 113c on the wings of the IQ1 lens via connecting rods 210a and 210c (which may be conductive or at least have a conductive core or shell). The tabs can then apply those voltages to the front and rear conductive surfaces of the IQ1 ion lens. Therefore, in this embodiment, connecting rods 210a and 210c provide both structural and electrical functions.

[0079] The ion guiding assembly 100 provides a modular unit in which both the QJet bar and the Q0 bar, along with their associated ion lenses, are integrated. Such an integrated unit reduces the complexity and cost associated with the QJet bar and Q0 bar and their associated lenses in conventional mass spectrometers. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the ion guiding assembly 100 can be manufactured at such a low cost that it can be made as a single-use, disposable item. This reduces the cost and complexity associated with periodically cleaning the bars and ion lenses.

[0080] Figure 14A The entire ion guiding assembly 400 according to an embodiment is shown, the ion guiding assembly having including a screen 402a attached to each other (see...). Figure 14D ) and orifice plate 402b (see Figure 14F / Figure 14G The curtain panel / orifice plate assembly 402 provides a cavity through which gas can flow (referred to herein as the curtain cavity). Figure 14B This is another perspective view of the entire ion guiding assembly. Figure 14C This is a cross-sectional view of the entire ion guiding assembly. Figure 14D The front of the ion guiding assembly's panel is shown, which has a central metal portion 403a and an aperture 403c (the aperture plate includes a corresponding aperture to allow ions to pass through). Figure 14E This is another perspective view of the entire ion guiding assembly, showing only the Q0 bar and the QJet bar. Figure 14F and Figure 14G The front and back sides of the orifice plate are shown respectively. A central metal portion 403 extending to the rear surface of the orifice plate is illustrated, thus providing a conductive element extending across the width of the orifice plate from its front to its back side. The front side of the orifice plate also includes an annular metal portion 403' that partially surrounds the central metal portion 403, as well as other conductive elements described in more detail below.

[0081] The curtain panel / orifice plate assembly includes multiple teeth 402'a, 402'b, 402'c, 402'd, 402'e, 402'f, 402'g and 402'h (collectively referred to herein as teeth 402') and multiple openings 405a, 405b, 405c, 405d, 405e, 405f and 405g (collectively referred to herein as openings 405) surrounding the central portion of the orifice plate.

[0082] For details, please refer to the following: Figure 14E , Figure 14F and Figure 14G In this embodiment, the teeth 402' support a plurality of electrical connectors 406, 407, 408, 409, 410, 411, 412 and 413.

[0083] These electrical connectors include conductive elements (also referred to herein as conductive pads) 406a, 407a, 408a, 409a, 410a, 411a, 412a, and 413a, each of which is configured to allow access via the top surface of the panel 402a. The conductive pads are electrically coupled to internal conductive radial segments 406b, 407b, 408b, 409b, 410b, 411b, 412b, and 413b, respectively, disposed on the top surface of the orifice plate 402b.

[0084] Conductive radial segments 406b, 407b, 408b, 409b, 411b, 412b, and 413b extend to circular conductive portions 406c, 407c, 408c, 409c, 411c, 412c, and 413c, respectively, which in turn surround openings 405a, 405b, 405c, 405d, 405e, 405f, 405g, and 405h. Circular conductive portion 406c is connected to the conductive surface of the central metal portion of the orifice plate via radial conductive segment 406d. Furthermore, conductive pad 410b is electrically coupled to the front conductive surface of the central metal portion of the curtain panel / orifice plate assembly. Therefore, conductive pads 406a and 410a can be used to apply voltage to the inner and outer central conductive portions of the curtain panel / orifice plate assembly.

[0085] The opening 405e provided in the tooth 402'e allows gas to be introduced into the space between the curtain plate and the orifice plate.

[0086] As discussed in more detail below, these connectors can be used to apply voltage to various components of the ion guiding assembly.

[0087] For details, please refer to the following: Figure 14A and Figure 14E The ion guiding assembly 400 includes a first set of quadrupoles 502a, 502b, 502c, and 502d (collectively referred to herein as QJet rods 502), which are arranged in a quadrupole configuration to allow ions to pass through channels provided between them. Although the rods 502 have a quadrupole configuration in this embodiment, in other embodiments they may have other multi-pole configurations such as hexapoles.

[0088] like Figure 14A As shown, the ion guiding assembly 400 also includes a second set of quadrupoles 602a, 602b, 602c, and 604d (collectively referred to herein as Q0 bars), which are also arranged in a quadrupole configuration to allow ions to pass through the space provided between them. Similar to bar 502, in other embodiments, bar 602 may be arranged as other types of multipole bars (e.g., hexapole).

[0089] Similar to the previous embodiments, the ion guiding assembly 400 includes a plate 600 having a plurality of openings 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d (collectively referred to herein as openings). In the manner discussed above in conjunction with the previous embodiments, the QJet rod 502 is coupled to the Q0 rod via a plurality of connectors (not visible in this figure) through the openings. These connectors are similar to those described above in conjunction with the previous embodiments for coupling the QJet rod to the Q0 rod. Similar to the previous embodiments, an ion lens (similar to the IQ0 lens discussed above) is provided in the plate 600 for focusing ions passing through the QJet region to enter the Q0 region.

[0090] For details, please refer to the following: Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 14G and Figure 14F The conductive rod 700 is coupled to the orifice plate assembly 402 at its proximal end via an opening 405g provided in the orifice plate. More specifically, in this embodiment, a threaded screw 701 can engage with the internal thread provided in the opening at the proximal end of the conductive rod 700 to secure the proximal end of the conductive rod 700 to the orifice plate. At its distal end, the conductive rod 700 is coupled to the board 600 via an opening 703 provided in the board, for example via a screw 702 or via a press-fit PCB connector. The rod 700 is conductive and electrically coupled to the conductive circular portion of a connector 412 provided on the orifice plate assembly 402 to receive voltage from a voltage source (e.g., DC and / or RF voltage).

[0091] The distal end of the conductive rod 700 is electrically connected to an electrical trace disposed in the plate 600 (e.g., similar to that discussed above). Figure 10A The electrical trace 220a shown allows a voltage to be applied to the ion lens disposed in the plate 600. The electrical trace can be implemented, for example, in a manner similar to the embodiments of electrical traces discussed above in conjunction with the previous embodiments. In this way, the rod 700 not only provides support for structurally holding the aperture plate assembly 402 and the plate 600 relative to each other, but it also allows a voltage to be applied to the ion lens disposed in the plate.

[0092] The ion guiding assembly 400 also includes a substrate 800 located downstream of the plate 600, wherein another ion lens 801 (referred to herein as the IQ1 ion lens) is disposed. The substrate 800 and the IQ1 ion lens 801 are implemented in a manner similar to that discussed above in conjunction with the previous embodiments. Similar to the ion lens 112 above, the IQ1 ion lens 801 includes a conductive front surface and a conductive rear surface (such as the front conductive surface 112a / rear conductive surface 112b of the ion lens 112 discussed above and includes a central aperture through which ions can pass.

[0093] The conductive rod 900 extends from the aperture plate 402b to the substrate 800 via an opening 903 provided in the plate 600, so as to electrically couple the front conductive surface of the IQ1 ion lens to one of the electrical connectors provided in the aperture plate. More specifically, the proximal end of the conductive rod 900 is coupled to the aperture plate 402b via an opening 405d provided in the aperture plate by means of a screw 901 with external threads, which engages with an internal thread provided in the opening at the proximal end of the conductive rod 900, such that the proximal end of the conductive rod 900 makes electrical contact with the conductive circular portion of the electrical connector 409 provided in the aperture plate. The distal end of the conductive rod 900 is coupled via an opening 802 (see also) by means of a screw with external threads. Figure 14B The external thread is fixed to the substrate 800, and engages with the internal thread provided in the opening at the distal end of the conductive rod 900. The distal end of the conductive rod 900 is connected via an electrical trace provided in the substrate 800 (in... Figure 14A The trace (not visible in the center) is electrically connected to the front conductive surface of the IQ1 ion lens 801 to allow a voltage to be applied thereto. As mentioned above, the trace can be implemented in a manner similar to the trace implementations discussed above in conjunction with the previous embodiments.

[0094] Another conductive rod 1000 extends from the orifice plate 402b to the substrate 800 via another opening 1001 provided in the plate 600. More specifically, the conductive rod 1000 is secured at its proximal end to the orifice plate 402b by means of a screw 1002 having external threads, which engages with an internal thread provided in the opening at the proximal end of the conductive rod 1000. The distal end of the conductive rod 1000 extends via an opening 803 provided in the substrate 800 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 14A The rod 1000 is fixed to the substrate 800. In this embodiment, a screw with external threads can engage with an internal thread provided at the distal end of the rod 1000 to secure the distal end of the rod 1000 to the substrate 800. In other embodiments, other mechanisms such as friction fits may be employed. The distal end of the conductive rod 1000 is electrically coupled to the rear conductive surface of the IQ1 lens 801 via an electrical trace provided in the substrate 800 to allow a voltage to be applied thereto. The electrical trace can be implemented in the manner discussed above in conjunction with the electrical trace provided for applying a voltage to the IQ1 lens.

[0095] In some embodiments, such as Figure 18 As schematically shown, the conductive QJet rod and Q0 rod include a step 5 for engaging with a hole in the IQ0 plate. Support rods may include internally threaded openings at their ends for engaging with screws to hold the rod in place.

[0096] Accordingly, the two conductive rods 900 and 1000 allow a voltage difference to be applied across the IQ1 lens to provide a desired electric field distribution near the aperture of the IQ1 lens for focusing ions as they exit the ion guiding assembly to enter downstream components of the mass spectrometer in which the ion guiding assembly 400 is deployed. Additionally, each of the two conductive rods 900 and 1000 contributes to the structural stability of the ion guiding assembly by ensuring the correct positioning of the aperture plate 402b, plate 600, and substrate 800 relative to each other.

[0097] Any conductive rod discussed above can be formed wholly or partially from a conductive material such as metal to allow voltage applied to its proximal end to be transmitted to its distal end, and via its distal end to an IQ0 or IQ1 lens. For example, as Figure 16 As schematically shown, in some embodiments, such a rod 1 may include a non-conductive core 2 surrounded by a conductive shell 3. Alternatively, the entire rod 1 may be formed of a conductive material.

[0098] While the rods 700, 900, and 1000 above provide not only conductive paths for applying voltage to the ion lens incorporated in the ion guiding assembly 400, but also structural stability for the ion guiding assembly, in some embodiments, one or more rods may be used solely for providing structural stability for the ion guiding assembly.

[0099] For example, in this embodiment, the ion guiding assembly 400 includes two rods 2000 and 3000 extending from the aperture plate 402b to the substrate 800 to help maintain the structural integrity of the ion guiding assembly (see [link to documentation]). Figure 14B More specifically, in this embodiment, rod 3000 is secured to the orifice plate at its proximal end via an opening 405b provided in the orifice plate, and rod 2000 is secured to the orifice plate at its proximal end via an opening 405h. Although both openings 405b and 405h are associated with electrical connectors provided on the orifice plate, in this embodiment, rods 2000 and 3000 are used only as structural support rods and not for applying voltage to the ion lens incorporated in plate 600 and / or substrate 800.

[0100] In some embodiments, the ion guiding assembly 400 is configured such that the proximal end of the quadrupole assembly 502 is within a few millimeters (e.g., 0.5-3 mm) of the aperture plate 402b and the distal end of the quadrupole assembly 602 is within a few millimeters (e.g., 0.5-3 mm) of the ion lens 801.

[0101] Ion guiding components based on this teaching (such as ion guiding components 100 and 400 above) offer numerous advantages. For example, such ion guiding components provide modular units that can be easily removed and replaced. In some cases, the ion guiding components can be configured as single-use, disposable units that can be discarded after use, thereby eliminating the need for time-consuming and costly cleaning after each use.

[0102] The ion guiding components disclosed in this paper can be used in a variety of different mass spectrometers. For example, Figure 17 A mass spectrometer 1300 is schematically depicted, including an ion source 1302 for generating an ion beam containing multiple ions. The ion source and the downstream portion of the spectrometer may be separated by a curtain chamber (not shown). An integrated ion guiding assembly 1303 (such as the ion guiding assembly 100 above) according to the present teachings may be incorporated into the mass spectrometer 1300. In some embodiments, the integrated ion guiding assembly includes an aperture plate (see, for example, ion guiding assembly 400), while in other embodiments, the integrated ion guiding assembly according to the present teachings does not include an aperture plate as part of the assembly. In such embodiments, the ion guiding assembly may be deployed downstream of the aperture plate disposed within the mass spectrometer.

[0103] In use, the QJet bar can be used to capture and focus ions received through an orifice using a combination of gas dynamics and radio frequency fields. Ions pass through the QJet region and are focused downstream into the Q0 region via an IQ0 lens. In some embodiments, applying an RF voltage to the Q0 bar confines the ions near the central axis and allows them to enter the downstream quadrupole mass analyzer Q1, which may include a region that can be evacuated to, for example, less than approximately 1 x 10⁻⁶. -4 To (for example, approximately 5x10) -5 Four quadrupoles in a vacuum chamber under pressure (Torch).

[0104] As those skilled in the art will understand, the quadrupole assembly Q1 can operate as a conventional transmission RF / DC quadrupole mass filter, which can be operated to select ions of interest and / or a range of ions of interest. For example, the quadrupole assembly Q1 can be provided with an RF / DC voltage suitable for operation in mass-resolved mode. It should be understood that, taking into account the physical and electrical characteristics of Q1, the parameters of the applied RF and DC voltages can be selected such that Q1 establishes a transmission window with a selected m / z ratio, allowing these ions to pass through Q1 largely undisturbed. However, ions with m / z ratios falling outside the window cannot obtain a stable trajectory within the quadrupole and can be prevented from passing through the quadrupole assembly Q1. It should be understood that this operating mode is only one possible operating mode for Q1. For example, in some embodiments, the quadrupole assembly Q1 can be configured as an ion trap. In some respects, ions can be mass-selectively axially ejected from the Q1 ion trap in the manner described by Hager in “A new linear ion trap mass spectrometer”, Rapid Commun. Mas Spectro. 2002:16:512-526.

[0105] The illustrated mass spectrometer 1300 may include one or more mass analyzers 1304 (e.g., quadrupole or time-of-flight (ToF) analyzers) located downstream of the Q1 mass analyzer. Additionally, in some embodiments, a collision cell (not shown) may be located downstream of the Q1 quadrupole to fragment the precursor ion into product ions, allowing detection of MRM (multiple reaction monitoring) transitions. An ion detector 1305 may detect ions and generate a signal indicating the intensity of the detected ions. The analyzer (not shown) may operate on the signal generated by the ion detector to generate a mass spectrum.

[0106] Those skilled in the art will understand that various changes can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An ion guiding assembly for use in a mass spectrometry system, comprising: a first plurality of multipole rods arranged to allow ions to pass therebetween, a second plurality of multipole rods arranged to allow ions to pass therebetween, and a plate disposed between the first plurality of multipole rods and the second plurality of multipole rods, the plate comprising an ion lens, wherein the first plurality of multipole rods and the second plurality of multipole rods are coupled to the plate so as to be pairwise aligned through a plurality of openings in the plate and pairwise electrically in contact with each other.

2. The ion guiding assembly of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of multipole rods and the second plurality of multipole rods have a cylindrical shape.

3. The ion guiding assembly of claim 2, wherein the first plurality of multipole rods and the second plurality of multipole rods have a same diameter.

4. The ion guiding assembly of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of multipole rods and the second plurality of multipole rods are electrically coupled to a same radio frequency (RF) voltage source.

5. The ion guiding assembly of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of multipole rods and the second plurality of multipole rods are electrically coupled to a same direct current (DC) voltage source.

6. The ion guiding assembly of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of multipole rods and the second plurality of multipole rods are aligned and physically coupled to each other by a plurality of connectors through the plate.

7. The ion guiding assembly of claim 6, wherein the plurality of connectors have a length in a range of 60 mm to 75 mm.

8. The ion guiding assembly of claim 6, wherein the first plurality of multipole rods and the second plurality of multipole rods are aligned and physically coupled to each other via either of a male-to-female threaded connection and a female-to-female threaded connection through the plate.

9. The ion guiding assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the first plurality of multipole rods and the second plurality of multipole rods are arranged in a quadrupole configuration; or wherein each of the first plurality of multipole rods and the second plurality of multipole rods are arranged in a hexapole configuration.

10. The ion guiding assembly of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of multipole rods and the second plurality of multipole rods are disposed in a first vacuum chamber and a second vacuum chamber and the plate is configured to provide a vacuum seal between the first vacuum chamber and the second vacuum chamber.

11. An ion guiding assembly for use in a mass spectrometry system, comprising: an orifice plate having orifices for receiving ions from an ion source, the orifice plate comprising a plurality of electrical connectors for coupling to one or more voltage sources, a first set of multipole rods having a proximal end and a distal end and arranged to allow ions to pass between the proximal end of the first set of multipole rods and the distal end of the first set of multipole rods, wherein the proximal end of the first set of multipole rods is closer to the orifice plate than the distal end of the first set of multipole rods, a second set of multipole rods having a proximal end and a distal end, and the second set of multipole rods is arranged to allow ions to pass between the proximal end of the second set of multipole rods and the distal end of the second set of multipole rods, wherein the proximal end of the second set of multipole rods is closer to the orifice plate than the distal end of the second set of multipole rods, a plate disposed between the first set of multipole rods and the second set of multipole rods, the plate having a plurality of openings through which the first set of multipole rods and the second set of multipole rods are pairwise aligned and connected to one another, the plate including a first ion lens and an electrical trace for applying a voltage to the first ion lens, and a first electrically conductive rod electrically coupling a first one of the electrical connectors of the orifice plate to the electrical trace for transmitting a voltage from at least one of the voltage sources to the first ion lens.

12. The ion guide assembly of claim 11, wherein the first electrically conductive rod is configured to physically connect the orifice plate to the plate for structurally maintaining the plate relative to the orifice plate.

13. The ion guide assembly of claim 11, further comprising a plurality of connectors for coupling distal ends of the first set of multipole rods to proximal ends of the second set of multipole rods.

14. The ion guide assembly of claim 13, wherein the plurality of connectors are electrically conductive; or wherein the plurality of connectors are electrically insulating.

15. The ion guide assembly of claim 11, further comprising a substrate disposed proximate to the distal end of the second set of multipole rods.

16. The ion guide assembly of claim 15, further comprising a second ion lens disposed in a recess provided in the substrate; wherein the second ion lens includes two opposing front and back electrically conductive surfaces and an orifice extending between the two opposing front and back electrically conductive surfaces and configured to allow ions to pass therethrough.

17. The ion guide assembly of claim 11, further comprising a pair of electrically conductive rods, wherein one of the electrically conductive rods electrically couples a second one of the electrical connectors of the orifice plate to a front electrically conductive surface of the second ion lens and the other of the electrically conductive rods electrically couples a third one of the electrical connectors to a back electrically conductive surface of the second ion lens for applying a differential voltage across the front and back electrically conductive surfaces of the second ion lens; wherein the pair of electrically conductive rods physically connect the orifice plate to the substrate via two openings provided in the plate for structurally maintaining the orifice plate, the plate, and the substrate relative to one another.

18. The ion guide assembly of claim 17, further comprising at least one other rod extending from the orifice plate to the substrate via an opening provided in the plate for providing additional support for structurally maintaining the orifice plate, the plate, and the substrate relative to one another; wherein the at least one other rod is not configured for transmitting a voltage to a component of the ion guide assembly.

19. The ion guide assembly of claim 11, wherein each of the first set of multipole rods and the second set of multipole rods are arranged in a quadrupole configuration; or wherein each of the first set of multipole rods and the second set of multipole rods are arranged in a hexapole configuration.

20. The ion guide assembly of claim 11, wherein the first set of multipole rods and the second set of multipole rods have the same diameter; and / or wherein the first set of multipole rods and the second set of multipole rods have the same inter-rod internal spacing.

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