Ion source rapid exchange device and ion transmission device

Abstract

A mass spectrometer is disclosed comprising a rotatable isolation valve (1) having a curved, spherical, cylindrical or concave portion. At least a portion of a first ion guide (2) is positioned to extend within the swept volume of the isolation valve (1) to enable the first ion guide (2) to be positioned in close proximity to a second ion guide (3) and for the transmission of ions from the first ion guide (2) to the second ion guide (3) with high ion transmission efficiency.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application is a divisional application of application number 201880083122.8 (PCT / GB2018 / 053747) filed on December 21, 2018, entitled "Ion Source Rapid Exchange Device and Ion Transport Device". Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates generally to the field of mass spectrometry analysis. Background Technology

[0004] Mass spectrometers including matrix-assisted laser desorption / ionization (“MALDI”) ion sources are known. MALDI mass spectrometry is a known method particularly well-suited for the analysis of non-volatile biomolecules. A suitable matrix material (e.g., an organic solvent) is added to the sample, causing the sample to embed within the matrix material. The embedded sample is then placed on a metal plate, and a laser pulse is directed onto the target sample. The laser pulse striking the target sample ablates the analyte material and desorbs it from the target sample. Analyte ions are generated by the protonation or deprotonation of the analyte material in a hot gaseous molecular plume released from the target. The matrix has strong absorption at the wavelength of the laser pulse and acts as a proton source to facilitate analyte ionization. The gaseous plume released from the target comprises a mixture of analyte ions and neutral particles. This mixture of analyte ions and neutral particles is then directed to the inlet of the mass spectrometer. The analyte ions are separated from the neutral particles and forwarded to the mass analyzer of the mass spectrometer for mass analysis.

[0005] Matrix-assisted laser desorption / ionization mass spectrometry (“MALDI-MSI”) involves analyzing the distribution of biomolecules on a target surface (e.g., tissue embedded in a matrix) by scanning the target with a focused laser beam and recording the ion distribution at each irradiated pixel. A mass spectrometric image of the target's properties can then be constructed on the target surface.

[0006] According to known mass spectrometers including matrix-assisted laser desorption / ionization (MALDI) ion sources, analyte ions generated by the ion source are forward-transmitted to other stages of the mass spectrometer via a first rod group of ion guides located in the first or initial vacuum chamber of the mass spectrometer.

[0007] One known problem with this arrangement is that the first rod group ion director can become contaminated, or the rod electrodes comprising the first rod group ion director can become dirty or coated with analytes and background materials. In particular, ions and neutral particles can bombard the outer surface of the electrodes forming the first rod group ion director over a period of time, causing the electrodes forming the first rod group ion director to be coated with insulating materials, thereby reducing the performance of the first rod group ion director and thus negatively impacting the overall performance of the mass spectrometer.

[0008] In order to maintain the performance of the first-bar ion guide and the entire mass spectrometer, it is necessary to periodically remove the first-bar ion guide from the first or initial vacuum chamber of the mass spectrometer in order to clean the first-bar ion guide by removing any surface contaminant buildup on the electrode surface of the first-bar ion guide.

[0009] However, the process of removing the first rod ion guide from the first vacuum chamber of a known mass spectrometer is relatively complex and time-consuming. The known arrangement of the first rod ion guide is not easily removed from the vacuum chamber of the mass spectrometer that houses it. As those skilled in the art will understand, the geometry of the first rod ion guide and the vacuum chamber makes it impossible for non-technical personnel to perform maintenance on the first rod ion guide. In particular, it requires the service of a skilled service engineer to remove the first rod ion guide from the first vacuum chamber of the mass spectrometer.

[0010] In addition, the process of removing the first rod group ion guide from the first vacuum chamber of the mass spectrometer for cleaning purposes includes completely venting the mass spectrometer before removing the first rod group ion guide from the first vacuum chamber.

[0011] Those skilled in the art will understand that establishing a high vacuum (low pressure) in the downstream analyzer stage of a mass spectrometer is a time-consuming process. Therefore, the conventional method for cleaning the first-bar ion guide of a mass spectrometer is both relatively complex, requiring the work of a skilled engineer, and relatively time-consuming, as the mass spectrometer will be offline for a period while allowing for initial complete venting. Furthermore, once the first-bar ion guide has been removed, cleaned, and reinstalled in the first vacuum chamber of the mass spectrometer, a considerable amount of time is required to rebuild the high vacuum (low pressure) in the downstream analyzer stage.

[0012] Similarly, conventionally, if one wishes to remove a sub-atmospheric pressure ion source housed in the vacuum chamber of a mass spectrometer to operate a different type of ion source, this similarly involves a complete venting of the instrument. Therefore, conventionally seeking to convert a sub-atmospheric pressure ion source to an atmospheric pressure ion source can be a relatively complex and time-consuming process, requiring the services of a skilled engineer.

[0013] The goal is to provide an improved mass spectrometer. Summary of the Invention

[0014] According to one aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising:

[0015] Vacuum chamber;

[0016] Isolation valves, which have curved, spherical, cylindrical, or concave portions; and

[0017] A first ion guide, wherein, in use, at least a portion of the first ion guide extends within the sweep volume of the isolation valve or within a curved, spherical, cylindrical, or concave portion of the isolation valve.

[0018] The device may include, for example, an analytical apparatus, a mass spectrometer, or an ion mobility spectrometer.

[0019] The curved shape or profile of the isolation valve allows the first ion guide to mate with the isolation valve such that one end of the first ion guide is located within the swept volume of the isolation valve. According to various embodiments, the isolation valve is rotatable, and as the isolation valve rotates, its profile sweeps out a volume that, as those skilled in the art will understand, may be referred to as a "swept volume." The positioning of at least a portion of the first ion guide within the swept volume of the isolation valve (or within a curved, spherical, cylindrical, or concave portion of the isolation valve), and the curved, spherical, cylindrical, or concave nature of the isolation valve, enable a compact design and allow the downstream end of the first ion guide to be positioned close to the inlet of the downstream second ion guide, thereby ensuring high ion transfer efficiency between the two ion guides.

[0020] The profile of the isolation valve and the electrode arrangement forming the first ion guide (which may be arranged upstream of the isolation valve) and / or the electrode arrangement forming the second ion guide (which may be arranged downstream of the isolation valve) can be designed to optimally accommodate the isolation valve. Specifically, the electrodes of the first upstream ion guide can be arranged such that the electrodes of the first ion guide are within and extend into the swept volume of the isolation valve, in order to minimize the distance between the outlet or downstream end of the first ion guide and the inlet or upstream end of the second downstream ion guide located downstream of both the first ion guide and the isolation valve. Specifically, when the isolation valve is in the open position during normal operation, the downstream end of the first ion guide can be arranged relatively adjacent to the inlet of the second downstream ion guide to provide high ion transfer efficiency between the two ion guides, while also allowing the isolation valve to close in operating mode to isolate the downstream second ion guide from the upstream first ion guide.

[0021] The curved shape or profile of the isolation valve allows it to be positioned near a second ion guide, which can be arranged downstream of the first ion guide. As a result, the first and second ion guides can be close to or near each other. Therefore, the distance between the outlet of the first ion guide assembly and the inlet of the second downstream ion guide can be reduced or minimized, allowing ions to be efficiently transferred from the first ion guide to the second ion guide without ion loss.

[0022] The isolation valve may be operable to allow a first ion optical component to be removed from and / or inserted into a first upstream section of the vacuum chamber, while a second downstream section of the vacuum chamber is maintained at a lower pressure than the first upstream section. The first ion optical component may include one or more first ion guides. For example, one or more first ion guides may include a multipole arrangement comprising a plurality of rod electrodes or annular arrangements of electrodes. The first ion optical component may include a plurality of electrodes, wherein one or more electrodes extend within the swept volume of the isolation valve. The isolation valve may have or present a generally concave profile relative to the first ion optical component. The device may also include a second ion optical component disposed downstream of the isolation valve. The isolation valve may have or present a generally convex profile relative to the second ion optical component. The isolation valve may be rotatable or actuated between an open position and a closed position. When the isolation valve is in the open position, the first upstream section of the vacuum chamber containing the first ion optical component is in fluid communication with the second downstream section of the vacuum chamber. When the isolation valve is in the closed position, the first upstream section of the vacuum chamber containing the first ion optical component is not in fluid communication with the second downstream section of the vacuum chamber, thereby causing the pressure in the first upstream section to rise to atmospheric pressure or ambient pressure, while the second downstream section can be maintained at a substantially lower pressure.

[0023] According to various embodiments, a ball valve, a toggle valve, or an isolation valve is provided that isolates a chamber containing a first ion guide from other stages of the mass spectrometer. The isolation valve is configured to maintain instrument vacuum while an exhaust source is being supplied. The isolation valve may be provided with an ion guiding assembly having one or more rails, and the ion guiding assembly may be held in place by one or more latch release mechanisms.

[0024] The overall arrangement enables non-skilled users to perform various functions, such as closing the isolation valve to maintain low pressure (high vacuum) in the downstream vacuum chamber of the instrument, and then removing and optionally cleaning and / or replacing the first ion guide. It should be understood that, conventionally, such functions are reserved for skilled engineers. Therefore, the analytical instruments, mass spectrometers, or ion mobility spectrometers according to various embodiments have improved maintainability compared to conventional arrangements, and in particular, the analytical instruments, mass spectrometers, or ion mobility spectrometers according to the invention can be maintained by non-skilled users.

[0025] An isolation valve allows the source or ion source to be discharged without having to be discharged from the analyzer located in the vacuum chamber of the downstream analyzer.

[0026] According to various embodiments, an isolation valve is provided that allows a vacuum chamber containing or housing a first ion guiding component to be vented and opened without venting or completely venting the analyzer.

[0027] Maintaining the vacuum in the analyzer during cleaning and servicing of the first ion guide or the first ion guide assembly allows the voltage applied to the internal electrodes of the analyzer to be maintained, resulting in the instrument not needing to be recalibrated when it resumes operation.

[0028] The first ion guide may include multiple rod electrodes.

[0029] The first ion director may include a multi-bar array. For example, according to various embodiments, the first ion director may include a quadrupole ion director, a hexapole ion director, or an octapole ion director. The first ion director may include more than eight bar electrodes.

[0030] One or more RF or AC voltages can be applied to the rod electrode to generate a pseudopotential ion confinement region within a volume defined by the inscribed radius of the rod electrode.

[0031] Once the rod electrode is removed from the vacuum chamber, it can be easily cleaned and reinserted into the instrument by an unskilled user.

[0032] At least some of the rod electrodes may have beveled, bent, or non-planar portions or ends, which are located near the isolation valve during use.

[0033] The curved shape or profile of the isolation valve, as well as the oblique, curved, or non-planar portions or ends of the first ion guide, enable the first ion guide to be positioned close to the isolation valve, particularly close to the curved, spherical, cylindrical, or concave portions of the isolation valve.

[0034] The first ion guide may include a plurality of electrodes having an upstream end and a downstream end, wherein at least some or all of the electrodes or the downstream end is oblique, curved or non-planar.

[0035] The beveled, bent, or non-planar portions or ends (one or more) of the first ion guide enable it to mate with an isolation valve, such that the end of the first ion guide is located within the sweep volume of the isolation valve. This results in a compact design that allows the first ion guide to be positioned close to the inlet of the downstream second ion guide, thereby ensuring high ion transfer efficiency between the two ion guides.

[0036] The first ion director may include a ring-shaped ion director or a plurality of electrodes with pores through which ions are transported during use. The electrodes forming the first ion director may have an outer diameter or profile, and the outer diameter or profile of one or more electrodes forming the first ion director may decrease or taper towards the downstream section of the first ion director.

[0037] The annular electrode may have an inner diameter or a first profile and an outer diameter or a second profile. The outer diameter or second profile of one or more electrodes forming the first ion guide may decrease or taper towards the downstream section of the first ion guide, such that the first ion guide extends within the sweep volume of the isolation valve or within a curved, spherical, cylindrical, or concave portion during use. As a result, the first ion guide can be positioned close to the inlet of the downstream second ion guide, thereby ensuring high ion transport efficiency between the two ion guides.

[0038] In use, the downstream end of the first ion guide can be located at a distance of ≤10mm from the isolation valve.

[0039] According to various embodiments, the first ion director may be positioned particularly close to the isolation valve or a curved, spherical, cylindrical, or concave portion of the isolation valve to improve ion transport efficiency. For example, according to various embodiments, the downstream end of the first ion director may be located at a distance of ≤9 mm, ≤8 mm, ≤7 mm, ≤6 mm, ≤5 mm, ≤4 mm, ≤3 mm, ≤2 mm, or ≤1 mm from the isolation valve or a portion of the isolation valve.

[0040] The device may also include a second ion director, wherein, in operating mode, at least a portion of the isolation valve extends within a portion of the second ion director.

[0041] The second ion guide may be located downstream of the isolation valve and / or downstream of the first ion guide. According to various embodiments, due to the close-packed arrangement between the first ion guide, the isolation valve, and the second ion guide, ions can be efficiently transferred from the first ion guide to the second ion guide with negligible ion loss.

[0042] The second ion guide may include a ring-shaped ion guide or multiple electrodes with pores through which ions are transported during use.

[0043] The second ion director may include multiple ring electrodes, wherein one or more RF or AC voltages may be applied to the ring electrodes to generate pseudo-potential ion confinement regions within the ring assembly or within the pores of the electrodes.

[0044] According to various embodiments, the second ion director may include a stepped-wave (RTM) ion director arrangement comprising stacked annular ion directors arranged to maximize ion transport from the source to the mass analyzer. The device also allows for the active removal of neutral contaminants, thereby enhancing the overall signal-to-noise ratio. The second ion director facilitates the efficient capture of relatively diffused ion clouds entering the first stage, which are then focused into the upper ion director for transfer to the mass analyzer.

[0045] In use, the first ion director can be located in a vacuum chamber, and the isolation valve can be operable to isolate the area downstream of the first ion director.

[0046] For example, the isolation valve may be operable to isolate the vacuum chamber or a portion of the vacuum chamber housing the first ion guide from the second downstream ion guide. The second downstream ion guide may be located in the same vacuum chamber as the first ion guide, or alternatively, the second downstream ion guide may be located in a second or different vacuum chamber.

[0047] The isolation valve can be operated by inexperienced users and allows the mass analyzer to be maintained at a low pressure while the first ion guide is removed for servicing.

[0048] The device may also include an analytical apparatus, mass analyzer, or ion mobility spectrometer disposed downstream of the isolation valve, wherein the isolation valve may be operated to maintain the analytical apparatus, mass analyzer, or ion mobility spectrometer at a pressure below atmospheric pressure while removing the first ion guide.

[0049] The analytical apparatus, mass analyzer, or ion mobility spectrometer can be housed in a vacuum chamber, which is maintained at a relatively low pressure during use. For example, according to various embodiments, the vacuum chamber housing the analytical apparatus or mass analyzer can be maintained at ≤10... -3 At a pressure of mbar, the first rod group of ion directors is simultaneously removed. According to other embodiments, the vacuum chamber housing the analytical apparatus or mass analyzer can be maintained at ≤10 mbar. -4 mbar, ≤10 -5 mbar, ≤10 -6 mbar, ≤10 -7 mbar or ≤10 -8 Under a pressure of mbar, the first group of ion directors is simultaneously removed. It should be understood that maintaining the analytical device or mass analyzer at a pressure below atmospheric pressure while removing the first group of ion directors (at atmospheric or ambient pressure) for servicing reduces instrument downtime and eliminates any need for instrument recalibration.

[0050] The isolation valve can rotate between the open and closed positions.

[0051] The curved shape or profile of the isolation valve allows it to rotate from the open position to the closed position in a compact manner, enabling the first and second ion guides to be tightly positioned.

[0052] According to one aspect, a method is provided that includes:

[0053] Ions are guided by a first ion guide, wherein, in use, at least a portion of the first ion guide extends within the sweep volume of the isolation valve or within a curved, spherical, cylindrical, or concave portion of the isolation valve.

[0054] The method may also include operating an isolation valve to maintain the analytical apparatus, mass analyzer, or ion mobility spectrometer at a pressure below atmospheric pressure while removing the first ion guide.

[0055] The method may also include rotating the isolation valve between the open and closed positions.

[0056] According to another aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising:

[0057] Vacuum chamber;

[0058] A housing, located within a vacuum chamber and equipped with a guiding mechanism; and

[0059] The first ion optical component, which is slidable or translational in conjunction with the guiding mechanism, allows the first ion optical component to be inserted into and aligned within the vacuum chamber.

[0060] MALDI mass spectrometers are known to have an ion guiding assembly located within a vacuum chamber. However, the ion guiding assembly, as it is known to be arranged, is not easily removed and requires tools to loosen and remove it from the vacuum chamber. As those skilled in the art will understand, removing the ion guiding assembly from a known mass spectrometer requires the service of a skilled engineer. Removing the ion guiding assembly from the vacuum chamber of a conventional mass spectrometer also requires retracting the MALDI ion source from the vacuum chamber so that the ion guiding assembly can then be manipulated out through a cover within the housing of the vacuum chamber. This is problematic for a number of reasons.

[0061] First, during its manipulation, extraction, and replacement, a mirror inside the vacuum chamber that provides the observation window for the MALDI camera can be captured and removed from its critical alignment position.

[0062] Secondly, the voltage supplied to the electrodes, including those with known ion-directing components, is delivered using wires and connectors that are part of the ion-directing components. During operation, these wires may become stuck or detached, posing a risk of close proximity or contact with other electrodes or components, thus increasing the risk of electrical failure once the system returns to operation.

[0063] In contrast to known arrangements, according to various embodiments, the housing is disposed within a vacuum chamber, and the housing may include guide bearings that ensure that the first ion optics assembly, ion guide, or ion transport device can be removed and / or (re)inserted without the risk of moving or damaging any of the components inside the chamber or vacuum chamber.

[0064] According to various embodiments, guide rails and associated guide bearings can be provided, which allow one or more laser reflectors to be positioned close to the ion optical axis of the ion guide, thereby enabling the laser beam to be delivered to the sample at a near-perpendicular incident angle, while also reducing the overall working distance between the focusing lens and the sample plate. This offers numerous advantages.

[0065] First, the reduced incident angle decreases the distortion of the incident beam, making the illumination of the sample more circular.

[0066] Secondly, the ability to include a shorter focal length lens means that the incident laser beam can be focused more closely onto the sample plate, thereby improving the spatial resolution of ion detection.

[0067] When loading or unloading samples on a conventional MALDI ion source, the sample plate carrier must travel to the loading lock position before the sealing door. The loading lock chamber is then vented. According to various embodiments, by using an isolation valve to isolate the analyzer vacuum and vent the entire chamber, there is no need to move the sample plate carrier. This reduces the time required for sample unloading.

[0068] Another problem with conventional loading and locking systems is that the pressure difference achieved during loading—that is, between the loading and locking chamber and the sample chamber—can cause gas to suddenly flow from the loading and locking chamber into the sample chamber as the sample carrier retracts from the loading and locking chamber. Sometimes, this can cause the sample plate to fall from the carrier into the main sample vacuum chamber during this transition, necessitating the removal of the entire sample chamber for sample recovery.

[0069] In contrast to known arrangements, the sample chamber according to various embodiments can be fully opened, allowing any sample that falls from the carrier to be easily retrieved.

[0070] Another advantage of removing the loading lock is that a larger template can be used while maintaining a similar length of lead screw.

[0071] Conventionally, switching from one ion source to another currently requires complete purging of the instrument. Combinations of isolation valves and guide bearings and / or rail configurations, according to various embodiments, allow the first ion guiding assembly to be removed and replaced with an assembly suitable for replacing the ion source, without requiring complete purging of the instrument.

[0072] According to various embodiments, the ion director can be mounted onto an assembly that may include a guide mounting mechanism. The combination of a vacuum isolation valve and a guide mounting mechanism for the ion director (which may also have an integrated latch and sealing mechanism) enables rapid exchange of the initial or first ion director and reduces downtime for mass spectrometers or other analytical instruments requiring offline maintenance.

[0073] The engagement between the first ion optical component and the guiding mechanism allows the first ion optical component to be removed from the vacuum chamber without being tangled or jammed by wires or cables. Furthermore, the first ion optical component can be inserted into and / or removed from the vacuum chamber without any risk of damaging other components, including the sensitive ion optical component, laser reflector, etc.

[0074] The apparatus according to various embodiments enables easy removal of the first ion guide of an analytical instrument, mass spectrometer, or ion mobility spectrometer for cleaning. After cleaning, the ion guide can be easily replaced by a non-skilled user, i.e., without the need for a professional service engineer. Specifically, the first ion guide is mounted as part of an ion optics assembly, and the first ion guide and associated ion optics assembly can optionally be axially slid or translated into or out of a first (or subsequent) vacuum chamber in the direction of the ion optical axis (i.e., axial direction), allowing a non-skilled user to insert and / or remove the first ion guide without specialized skills. The first ion optics assembly may be provided with guiding mechanisms, such as one or more rails. The rails may slide into or engage with one or more guide bearings, which may optionally be mounted on a second assembly or housing, the housing being arranged to connect to or interlock with the first assembly, which may house or contain the first ion guide.

[0075] The guide rail mechanism according to various embodiments is particularly effective in ensuring and facilitating easy alignment of the first ion guide with the rest of the housing of the analytical instrument, mass spectrometer, or ion mobility spectrometer, and in ensuring the correct and precise positioning of the first ion guide in the first vacuum chamber of the analytical instrument (such as a mass spectrometer or ion mobility spectrometer).

[0076] Consider embodiments in which the guiding mechanism may include different forms of sliding mechanisms, or in which the track or guide may have different profiles at different axial positions.

[0077] Although various embodiments have been disclosed in which the assembly housing the first ion guide includes one, two, or more than two guide rails that slide within or engage with one, two, or more than two guide bearings mounted to or housing the second assembly or housing, other embodiments are also contemplated in which the first ion guide assembly may include one, two, or more than two guide bearings and the second assembly or housing may include one, two, or more than two guide rails.

[0078] The guiding mechanism allows the first ion optical component to slide or translate in the axial direction, thereby enabling the first ion optical component to be removed from and / or inserted into the chamber or vacuum chamber of the analytical instrument (such as a mass spectrometer or ion mobility spectrometer).

[0079] The first ion optical assembly may also include a sealing member having an ion inlet orifice therein, wherein the sealing member is arranged to seal the front of the vacuum chamber.

[0080] The sealing member can form a vacuum-tight seal with the front of the chamber or vacuum chamber, except for the ion inlet orifice provided in the sealing member. Optionally, the sealing member may include one or more O-ring seals for sealing the front of the vacuum chamber. However, providing one or more O-rings is not required. Thus, the sealing member of the first ion optics assembly can seal the front of the chamber or vacuum chamber, and the pressure can be effectively balanced only through the ion inlet orifice.

[0081] The device may also include a releasable latch for securing a sealing member to the front of the vacuum chamber and / or for securing a first ion optics assembly within the vacuum chamber.

[0082] The releasable latch allows the first ion optics assembly to be secured to the front of the chamber or vacuum chamber in a manner that allows a non-skilled user to remove or take out the first ion optics assembly from the vacuum chamber without the use of tools.

[0083] The first ion optical component may also include a first electrical connector, and the housing may also include a second electrical connector, wherein in use, inserting the first ion optical component into the vacuum chamber will connect the first electrical connector to the second electrical connector.

[0084] According to various embodiments, contact pins and plates can be used to provide electrical connections to the ion guide or the first ion guide. The use of contact pins and plates according to various embodiments eliminates any risk of wire movement or tangling. Furthermore, the guide rail mechanism prevents accidental collisions with any critical alignment components (such as laser mirrors) inside the chamber or vacuum chamber.

[0085] One known problem with MALDI mass spectrometers is that the first ion guide, located within the vacuum chamber, typically has a relatively complex series of electrical connections that need to be disconnected and then reconnected before the first ion guide can be removed and serviced. Disconnecting and reconnecting the power to the first ion guide of a known MALDI mass spectrometer requires the service of a skilled engineer.

[0086] However, contrary to known arrangements according to various embodiments, electrical connection to the ion guide or first ion guide can be achieved via spring contacts inside the chamber or vacuum chamber. Therefore, the ion guide or first ion guide can be easily disconnected and / or reconnected to the power supply without requiring the assistance of a skilled engineer.

[0087] A small coarse pump can be connected to the pumping port in the vacuum chamber, allowing the pressure in the vacuum chamber to be reduced to a level sufficient to open the isolation valve once the source or ion source and the first ion guide are in place.

[0088] Contrary to known arrangements, the electrical connection to the first ion guide can be safely disconnected from (and reconnected to) its power source without the need for a skilled engineer. Furthermore, the electrical connection is located away from the upstream end of the first ion guide, thereby improving both the safety and maintainability of the analytical instrument, mass spectrometer, or ion mobility spectrometer, and simplifying the process of removing, cleaning, and re-inserting the first ion guide from the chamber or first vacuum chamber.

[0089] According to various embodiments, contact pins and plates can be used to provide an electrical connection to an ion director or a first ion director. According to various embodiments, the use of contact pins and plates eliminates any risk of wire movement and allows the first ion director to be electrically connected and / or disconnected to an associated power source without the need for a professional service engineer. The connector can be positioned to connect to the rear (downstream) of the first ion director, thereby keeping the connection to the associated power source away from the user. Therefore, this design enables safe electrical contact and disconnection with the ion director without requiring specialized skills.

[0090] The first ion optical assembly may include one or more guide mechanisms, one or more guide rails, or one or more guide bearings arranged to receive one or more guide rails. The device may also include a second assembly arranged to connect, fix, or interlock with the first ion optical assembly. When the first ion optical assembly is inserted into a vacuum chamber, the second assembly may be arranged and adapted to facilitate the alignment of the first ion optical assembly. The second assembly may include one or more guide mechanisms, one or more guide rails, or one or more guide bearings arranged to receive one or more guide rails. The first ion optical assembly may include one or more first electrical contacts that engage in use with one or more second electrical contacts disposed on the second assembly. The one or more first electrical contacts may be retractable and / or the one or more second electrical contacts may be retractable. The guide mechanisms may be arranged such that the ion optical assembly can slide or translate in an axial direction substantially parallel to the ion optical axis.

[0091] The first ion optics assembly and / or a portion of the vacuum chamber may include a spring-release mechanism that allows the first ion optics assembly to be releasably secured to a portion of the vacuum chamber. The first ion optics assembly may also include one or more extraction electrodes having one or more pores through which ions are transported in use. According to various embodiments, either: (i) the size of one or more pores may be set to not form differential pumping pores; or (ii) the size of one or more pores may be set to form differential pumping pores.

[0092] The first ion optical component can form a seal with the front of the vacuum chamber or the front of the mass spectrometer.

[0093] The first ion optics assembly may include consumable components that can be replaced in case of contamination.

[0094] According to another aspect, a method is provided, which includes:

[0095] The first ion optical component is slidable or translated in conjunction with the guide mechanism of the housing located in the vacuum chamber, thereby enabling the first ion optical component to be inserted into and aligned within the vacuum chamber.

[0096] According to one aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising:

[0097] A vacuum chamber having an ion inlet orifice; and

[0098] An assembly that houses a first ion source at sub-atmospheric pressure, wherein in a first operating mode the assembly is fixed to a vacuum chamber to align the first ion source with an ion inlet aperture, and wherein in a second operating mode the assembly is detachable to allow a second, different ion source to be located near the ion inlet aperture.

[0099] Typically, switching from one ion source to another can be a relatively difficult process. According to various embodiments, the device includes a component housing a first sub-atmospheric pressure ion source. In a first operating mode, the component can be fixed to a vacuum chamber to align the first ion source with an ion inlet aperture, and in a second operating mode, the component can be disassembled to allow a second, different ion source to be located near the ion inlet aperture. As a result, a less skilled user can operate the sub-atmospheric pressure ion source located within the component's housing and then simply disassemble the component to use a different ion source. For example, the second ion source may include an atmospheric pressure ion source.

[0100] According to various embodiments, the components or gate assemblies used in the first operating mode can be reused to provide support for a second, different ion source. However, although the components or gate assemblies may have provided a vacuum seal for the vacuum chamber or its front side in the first operating mode, in the second operating mode, the components or gate assemblies may simply be used as a support for a second ion source, meaning that in the second operating mode, the components or gate assemblies may not be able to seal the vacuum chamber or its front side.

[0101] Conventionally, switching from one ion source to another requires complete venting of the instrument. According to various embodiments, a combination of isolation valves and guide bearings and / or rail configurations allows the first ion guiding assembly to be removed and replaced with an assembly suitable for replacing the ion source, without venting the entire instrument.

[0102] The components may include gate components.

[0103] The device may include an ion source housing that forms a seal with the front of the vacuum chamber or the front of the mass spectrometer.

[0104] The device may also include an ion source disposed within or located within the ion source housing at a pressure below atmospheric pressure.

[0105] The ion source housing may include a removable door assembly.

[0106] The device may also include an atmospheric pressure ion source that can be used in a second operating mode.

[0107] According to various embodiments, sub-atmospheric pressure ion sources, such as matrix-assisted laser desorption / ionization (“MALDI”) ion sources, can be housed in a door assembly that can be fixed to a vacuum chamber. This assembly or door assembly can be easily detached from the vacuum chamber, enabling the use of different types of ion sources.

[0108] The component may include a translation stage.

[0109] According to various embodiments, the component may include an xy translation stage for translating a sample plate (such as a MALDI sample plate) in one or more orthogonal directions. Specifically, the laser beam may be arranged to exit the device via an ion inlet aperture. The translation stage can be used to translate one or more sample regions to be ionized by the laser beam to the appropriate location.

[0110] In the first operating mode, the translation stage can be translated in a first direction perpendicular to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet aperture and / or in a second direction perpendicular to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet aperture, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction.

[0111] According to various embodiments, the components and translation stage can be arranged in a first operating mode to translate the sample plate, for example, in the x and / or y directions, wherein the x and / or y directions are also orthogonal to the ion optical axis or z direction that can pass through the ion inlet aperture.

[0112] The first ion source may include a matrix-assisted laser desorption / ionization (“MALDI”) ion source.

[0113] The source or ion source may include a MALDI ion source, but it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the use of a MALDI ion source. If a MALDI ion source is provided, the sample chamber can be sealed and operated under vacuum. According to various embodiments, the MALDI ion source may be housed within a casing or housing, which may form part of an assembly or gate assembly that may be engaged or secured to the front end of the mass spectrometer (or other analytical instrument) or the front end of a vacuum chamber or a first vacuum chamber. A small pump may be included to coarsely pump the sample chamber or housing before opening the isolation valve and exposing the source or ion source to the instrument vacuum.

[0114] When the laser is directed at the target, MALDI acquires a material plume. Some of the material plume is ionized and propagates forward into the analyzer, while neutral material diffuses and deposits on localized surfaces within the first vacuum chamber. Over time and with use, this deposit on the electrode surfaces affects the electric field generated by the electrodes and negatively impacts the instrument's sensitivity. Consequently, the first ion-directing assembly requires periodic cleaning.

[0115] Conventional MALDI ion sources coupled to a mass spectrometer require complete purging of the instrument in order to remove the first ion guide. In contrast, instruments according to various embodiments do not require complete purging before removing the first ion guide.

[0116] In the second operating mode, the component can be attached to the vacuum chamber or another part of the equipment.

[0117] According to various embodiments, the components or gate assemblies used in the first operating mode can be reused to provide support for a second, different ion source. However, although the components or gate assemblies may have provided a vacuum seal for the vacuum chamber or its front side in the first operating mode, in the second operating mode, the components or gate assemblies may simply be used as support for a second ion source, meaning that in the second operating mode, the components or gate assemblies may not be able to seal the vacuum chamber or its front side.

[0118] In the second mode of operation, the component may include a translation stage, wherein the translation stage can be translated in a first direction parallel to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet aperture and / or in a second direction perpendicular to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet aperture.

[0119] According to various embodiments, the components and translation stage can be arranged in a second operating mode to translate a sample plate, for example, in the x (or y) direction and / or in the z direction, the sample plate passing through an ion inlet aperture and parallel to the ion optical axis.

[0120] The second ion source includes an ion source at atmospheric pressure.

[0121] For example, the second ion source may include a desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) ion source, a low-temperature plasma (LTP) ion source, a direct real-time analysis (DART) ion source, or an inductively coupled plasma (“ICP”) ion source.

[0122] According to another aspect, a method is provided, which includes:

[0123] The assembly containing the first ion source at sub-atmospheric pressure is fixed to a vacuum chamber with an ion inlet orifice so that the first ion source is aligned with the ion inlet orifice; then

[0124] Disassemble the assembly and locate a second, different ion source near the ion inlet orifice.

[0125] The component may include a translation stage, and the method may further include translating the translation stage in a first direction perpendicular to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet aperture and / or in a second direction perpendicular to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet aperture, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction.

[0126] The method may also include connecting the components to a vacuum chamber.

[0127] The component may include a translation stage, and the method may further include translating the translation stage in a first direction parallel to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet aperture and / or in a second direction perpendicular to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet aperture.

[0128] According to one aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising:

[0129] A vacuum chamber having an ion inlet orifice; and

[0130] An assembly that houses a first ion source at sub-atmospheric pressure, wherein in a first operating mode the assembly is fixed to a vacuum chamber to align the first ion source with an ion inlet aperture, and wherein in a second operating mode the assembly is detachable to allow a second, different ion source to be located near the ion inlet aperture.

[0131] Conventionally, attempting to change an ion source operating below atmospheric pressure to a different ion source is a relatively difficult process. Conversely, according to various embodiments, it is easy to exchange an ion source operating below atmospheric pressure for a different ion source.

[0132] According to various embodiments, the device includes an assembly housing a first sub-atmospheric pressure ion source. In a first operating mode, the assembly housing the sub-atmospheric pressure ion source can be fixed to the vacuum chamber of the mass spectrometer to align the first sub-atmospheric pressure ion source with the ion inlet aperture. Then, in a second operating mode, when a different ion source is required, the assembly can be disassembled, allowing a second, different ion source to be located near the ion inlet aperture. As a result, a non-skilled user can operate the sub-atmospheric pressure ion source located within the assembly's housing and then simply disassemble the assembly to use a different ion source. For example, the sub-atmospheric pressure ion source can be replaced with a second atmospheric pressure or ambient ion source.

[0133] According to various embodiments, components or gate assemblies that house or accommodate a first sub-atmospheric pressure ion source in a first operating mode can be reused to provide support or a platform for a second, different ion source. For example, the components or gate assemblies can be arranged to be fixed or fixable to the surface of the instrument to provide support or a platform for the second ion source. According to various embodiments, the components or gate assemblies can be removably fixed to the front of the vacuum chamber of the mass spectrometer, thereby allowing the atmospheric pressure ion source to be positioned close to an ion inlet aperture disposed on the surface of the vacuum chamber.

[0134] In the first operating mode, the component or gate assembly can provide a vacuum seal for the vacuum chamber or its front side. However, it should be understood that in the second operating mode, the component or gate assembly can simply be used as a support or platform for the second ion source. Therefore, in the second operating mode, the component or gate assembly may not be able to seal the vacuum chamber or its front side.

[0135] Conventionally, switching from one ion source to another at sub-atmospheric pressure requires complete venting of the instrument. According to various embodiments, a combination of an isolation valve and an easily removable initial ion guide allows the initial stage of the mass spectrometer to be isolated, thereby allowing the assembly or gate assembly housing the sub-atmospheric ion guide to be pressurized and then opened or removed. The initial ion guide can be housed in a housing with bearings and / or rail configurations, allowing the first ion guiding assembly to be removed and replaced with a different ion guiding assembly that can be optimized for a second or alternative ion source. In particular, the ion source can be changed, and the initial ion guiding assembly can also be changed or optimized without venting the entire instrument.

[0136] The components may include gate components.

[0137] The device may include an ion source housing that forms a seal with the front of the vacuum chamber or the front of the mass spectrometer. The device may also include an ion source disposed within or located within the ion source housing at a sub-atmospheric pressure. The ion source housing may include a removable door assembly.

[0138] According to various embodiments, sub-atmospheric pressure ion sources, such as matrix-assisted laser desorption / ionization (“MALDI”) ion sources, can be housed in components or gates that can be fixed to a vacuum chamber. These components or gates can be easily detached from the vacuum chamber, enabling the use of different types of ion sources.

[0139] The component may include a translation stage.

[0140] According to various embodiments, the component may include an xy translation stage for translating a sample plate (such as a MALDI sample plate) in one or more orthogonal directions. Specifically, a laser beam or laser pulse may be arranged to exit the device via, for example, an ion inlet aperture located on the front side of a vacuum chamber. The translation stage can be used to translate a sample region or specific sample to be ionized by the laser beam or laser pulse to a suitable position. The sample can be translated via the translation stage, and different regions or portions of the sample or different samples can be ionized by the laser beam or laser pulse. According to various embodiments, the laser beam or laser pulse may be provided at a fixed position or location, and the sample may be translated over the laser beam or laser pulse.

[0141] In the first operating mode, the translation stage can be translated in a first direction perpendicular to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet orifice and / or in a second direction also perpendicular to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet orifice, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction.

[0142] According to various embodiments, the components and translation stage can be arranged in a first operating mode to translate the sample plate, for example, in the x and / or y directions, wherein the x and / or y directions are also orthogonal to the ion optical axis or z direction that can pass through the ion inlet aperture.

[0143] The first type of ion source below atmospheric pressure may include a matrix-assisted laser desorption / ionization (“MALDI”) ion source.

[0144] The source or ion source may include a MALDI ion source, although it should be understood that the invention is not limited to using a MALDI ion source as the first sub-atmospheric pressure ion source. If a MALDI ion source is provided, the sample chamber containing the sample and the MALDI ion source can be sealed and operated under vacuum. According to various embodiments, the MALDI ion source may be housed within a casing or housing, which may form part of an assembly or gate assembly that may be engaged or secured to the front end of the mass spectrometer (or other analytical instrument) or the front end of the vacuum chamber or first vacuum chamber. A small pump may be included to coarsely pump the sample chamber or housing before opening the isolation valve and exposing the source or ion source to the instrument vacuum.

[0145] When the laser is directed at the target, MALDI acquires a material plume. Some of the material plume is ionized and propagates forward into the analyzer, while neutral material diffuses and deposits on localized surfaces within the first vacuum chamber. Over time and with use, this deposit on the electrode surfaces affects the electric field generated by the electrodes and negatively impacts the instrument's sensitivity. Consequently, the first ion-directing assembly requires periodic cleaning.

[0146] Conventional MALDI ion sources coupled to a mass spectrometer require complete purging of the instrument in order to remove the first ion guide. In contrast, instruments according to various embodiments do not require complete purging before removing the first ion guide.

[0147] In the second operating mode, the component may be attached to another part of the vacuum chamber or apparatus. According to various embodiments, the component or gate assembly used in the first operating mode can be reused to provide support or a platform for a second, different ion source. However, although the component or gate assembly may have provided a vacuum seal for the vacuum chamber or its front in the first operating mode, in the second operating mode, the component or gate assembly may simply be used as a support or platform for the second ion source; that is, in the second operating mode, the component or gate assembly may not be able to seal the vacuum chamber or its front.

[0148] In the second operating mode, the component may include a translation stage, wherein the translation stage can be translated in a first direction parallel to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet aperture and / or in a second direction perpendicular to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet aperture.

[0149] According to various embodiments, the components and translation stage can be arranged in a second operating mode to translate a sample plate, for example, in the x (or y) direction and / or also in the z direction, the sample plate passing through an ion inlet aperture and being parallel to the ion optical axis.

[0150] The second ion source may include an ion source at atmospheric pressure. Therefore, various embodiments are considered in which the first ion source at sub-atmospheric pressure can be replaced by a second atmospheric pressure ion source.

[0151] For example, the second ion source may include a desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) ion source, a low-temperature plasma (LTP) ion source, a direct real-time analysis (DART) ion source, or an inductively coupled plasma (“ICP”) ion source.

[0152] According to another aspect, a method is provided, which includes:

[0153] The assembly containing the first ion source at sub-atmospheric pressure is fixed to a vacuum chamber with an ion inlet orifice so that the first ion source is aligned with the ion inlet orifice; then

[0154] Disassemble the assembly and locate a second, different ion source near the ion inlet orifice.

[0155] The component may include a translation stage, and the method may further include translating the translation stage in a first direction perpendicular to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet aperture and / or in a second direction perpendicular to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet aperture, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction.

[0156] The method may also include connecting the components to a vacuum chamber.

[0157] The component may include a translation stage, and the method may further include translating the translation stage in a first direction parallel to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet aperture and / or in a second direction perpendicular to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet aperture.

[0158] According to one aspect, an analytical instrument, mass spectrometer, or ion mobility spectrometer including the above-described devices is provided.

[0159] According to one aspect, a method for mass spectrometry or ion mobility spectrometry, including the method described above, is provided.

[0160] According to one aspect, a method for cleaning or replacing an ion director, including the method described above, is provided. Attached Figure Description

[0161] Various embodiments will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0162] Figure 1 A cross-section of an isolation valve in the closed position according to various embodiments is shown, wherein the isolation valve is disposed between a first upstream ion guiding assembly and a second downstream ion guiding assembly;

[0163] Figure 2A The vacuum isolation valve according to various embodiments is shown rotated to the open position, and Figure 2B The vacuum isolation valve is shown rotated to the closed position;

[0164] Figure 3 A first ion guiding assembly equipped with a guide rail is shown, the guide rail being used to facilitate axial alignment of the first ion guide and to ensure controlled extraction of the first ion guide from the first vacuum chamber and controlled insertion of the first ion guide into the first vacuum chamber, wherein a contact plate provides means of electrical connection.

[0165] Figure 4A second component or housing arranged to receive a first ion guiding assembly is shown, wherein the second component or housing includes two guide bearings for receiving corresponding guide rails of the first ion guiding assembly, and wherein the second component or housing is mounted in a first vacuum chamber and has electric spring contacts for electrical contact with the first ion guiding assembly;

[0166] Figure 5A A pressure-release spring latch for positioning the first ion guide in its initial position is shown, and Figure 5B The pressure release, which has been manipulated to allow the first ion guiding assembly to be removed from the first vacuum chamber, is shown.

[0167] Figure 6 An ion guiding assembly positioned in place is shown, which can be removed by releasing the clip and sliding the ion guiding assembly along the guide rail, and the surface interface between the first vacuum chamber and the front of the first ion guiding assembly is shown.

[0168] Figure 7 A gate assembly according to various embodiments is shown, the gate assembly may include an xy stage for a MALDI ion source, and wherein the gate assembly may be configured to be removable or detachable to enable the mounting of one or more alternative ion sources to the front end of the instrument; and

[0169] Figure 8 One embodiment is shown in which an xy stage is provided to allow horizontal movement for atmospheric DESI sample acquisition. Detailed Implementation

[0170] Various embodiments will now be described in more detail.

[0171] According to various embodiments, a number of component assemblies are provided that enable the first ion optics component provided at the front end or initial stage of an analytical instrument (such as a mass spectrometer or ion mobility spectrometer) to be easily removed, cleaned, and then replaced and / or re-inserted, in a manner that can be performed, for example, by a non-skilled user and does not require the service of a skilled engineer.

[0172] According to various embodiments, a gate assembly is also disclosed that enables the simple exchange of one ion source for another without requiring user expertise.

[0173] Mass spectrometers may include ion sources, such as matrix-assisted laser desorption / ionization (“MALDI”) ion sources comprising a closed sample chamber that operates under vacuum or at pressures below atmospheric pressure during use.

[0174] According to various embodiments, a component or gate component is disclosed that enables the simple exchange of a sub-atmospheric pressure ion source for another ion source (e.g., an atmospheric pressure ion source) without the assistance of a skilled engineer.

[0175] Mass spectrometers may include ion sources, such as matrix-assisted laser desorption / ionization (“MALDI”) ion sources in a closed sample chamber, which may be operated under vacuum or at pressures below atmospheric pressure during use.

[0176] Ions generated by the ion source can be transported forward to a first ion guide that may optionally form part of a first ion optical assembly. As those skilled in the art will understand, the first ion guide can become contaminated with deposits over time due to ion and / or neutral particle impacts on the electrodes or rods forming the first ion guiding assembly. As a result, the performance of the first ion guide may begin to deteriorate, which will negatively impact the overall performance of the analytical instrument, mass spectrometer, or ion mobility spectrometer.

[0177] Therefore, between sample analyses, it may be necessary or desirable to periodically remove the first ion guide and any associated first ion optics for cleaning purposes. However, it should be understood that, conventionally, the removal of the first ion guide for cleaning purposes will result in a loss of high vacuum (low pressure) in the downstream vacuum chamber. This may render the mass spectrometer offline or inoperable for a considerable period, as the mass spectrometer will first require complete purging so that the first ion guide can then be removed, and then, once the first ion guide has been reinserted, the high vacuum (low pressure) in the downstream analyzer section of the mass spectrometer will need to be restored.

[0178] Contrary to the conventional arrangement according to various embodiments, the first ion optical assembly can be removed (e.g., easily removed) without fully venting the analyzer. As a result, the mass spectrometer section downstream of the first ion guide can be maintained at a relatively high vacuum (low pressure) while the ion guide is serviced or replaced.

[0179] According to various embodiments, an isolation valve is provided that allows analytical instruments, mass spectrometers, or ion mobility spectrometers downstream of the first ion optical component to be maintained under a relatively high vacuum (low pressure) when the first ion guide and associated first ion optical component are removed, for example for cleaning or replacement purposes.

[0180] Figure 1 A spherical or cylindrical isolation valve 1, available according to various embodiments, is shown. The purpose of the isolation valve 1 is to isolate the downstream section of the chamber or vacuum chamber when the first ion guide 2 (upstream) needs to be removed from the chamber or vacuum chamber for cleaning purposes. The first ion guide 2 (upstream) is... Figure 1As shown in the figure. The first ion guide 2 (upstream) may, for example, include a multi-bar arrangement comprising, for example, quadrupole, hexapole, or octapole ion guides. Sometimes it may be necessary to remove the first ion guide 2 from the analytical instrument, mass spectrometer, or ion mobility spectrometer for cleaning purposes, or optionally replace the first ion guide 2 if necessary (e.g., if the first ion guide 2 wears down due to repeated cleaning).

[0181] like Figure 1 As shown, the outlet side or downstream end of the electrode forming the first ion guide 2 may have a chamfered, curved, or non-planar profile, or may otherwise have a shaped profile that allows the first ion guide 2 to extend within the sweep volume of the isolation valve 1. The isolation valve 1 is rotatable from a closed position to an open position, and the isolation valve 1 may be arranged such that when the isolation valve 1 is in the closed position, the isolation valve 1 has a cross-sectional profile that presents a concave portion adjacent to the downstream end of the first ion guide 2 and a convex portion adjacent to the upstream end of the downstream second ion guide 3.

[0182] like Figure 1 The isolation valve 1 shown is depicted in the closed position. The isolation valve 1 may be, for example, rotatable, or according to other embodiments, it may be otherwise actuated between an open and closed position. In operating mode, the isolation valve 1 can be moved from, for example, a rotatable position. Figure 1 The closed position is rotated, for example, 90° to the open position. In the open position, the isolation valve is moved so as not to block the ion path between the upstream first ion guide 2 and the downstream second ion guide 3.

[0183] The isolation valve 1 may have a spherical or curved profile, which allows the isolation valve 1 to be located within or extend within the inner diameter of one or more first or initial electrodes (one or more) of the second ion guide 3, the second ion guide being disposed downstream of the first ion guide 2 and the isolation valve 1. The second ion guide 3 may include, for example, […]. Figure 1 The illustrated second ion guide 3 is a stacked annular structure. However, other embodiments are contemplated, in which the second ion guide 3 may include a multi-bar arrangement comprising multiple bar electrodes. For example, the second ion guide 3 may include a quadrupole, hexapole, or octapole arrangement. According to other embodiments, the second ion guide 3 may include another stacked or sandwiched planar electrode arranged generally parallel to the ion travel direction through the second ion guide 3.

[0184] The shape and orientation of the isolation valve 1 allow it to be inserted or otherwise positioned between the outlet of the first ion guide 2 and the inlet of the second ion guide 3, while minimizing the distance between the two ion guides, namely the first ion guide 2 and the second ion guide 3. As a result, when the isolation valve 1 is in its normally open position, ion transport from the upstream first ion guide 2 to the downstream second ion guide 3 is optimized or unaffected because the two ion guides, namely the first ion guide 2 and the second ion guide 3, are very close to each other. In particular, because the two ion guides, namely the first ion guide 2 and the second ion guide 3, can be positioned close to each other, the ion receiving angle of the downstream second ion guide 3 can be such that all ions emerging from the outlet of the first ion guide 2 are received at an angle falling within the ion receiving angle of the second ion guide 3.

[0185] The isolation valve 1 may include a spherical or cylindrical section, and the isolation valve 1 may be in an open position (e.g., Figure 2A (as shown) and the closed position (as shown) Figure 2B The isolation valve 1 can be rotated 90° between the two sides (as shown). The isolation valve 1 can be rotated, closed, or opened manually or automatically. An embodiment is also considered in which the isolation valve can be positioned in an intermediate position between fully open and fully closed. For example, the isolation valve 1 can be positioned partially or slightly open / closed, thereby allowing careful control of the pressure in the vacuum chamber downstream of the isolation valve 1. Changing the state of the isolation valve 1 allows the first or pre-introduction stage of the vacuum chamber to be isolated from the downstream section of the vacuum chamber, and thus from the main vacuum chamber(s) of the mass analyzer housing the mass spectrometer.

[0186] Embodiments may be considered in which the mass analyzer housed in the downstream analyzer chamber or vacuum chamber may include a quadrupole mass analyzer, a 2D or linear quadrupole mass analyzer, a Porro or 3D quadrupole mass analyzer, a Penning trap mass analyzer, an ion trap mass analyzer, a magnetic sector mass analyzer, an ion cyclotron resonance (“ICR”) mass analyzer, a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (“FTICR”) mass analyzer, an electrostatic mass analyzer (arranged to generate an electrostatic field with a four-log potential distribution), a Fourier transform electrostatic mass analyzer, a Fourier transform mass analyzer, a time-of-flight mass analyzer, an orthogonal acceleration time-of-flight mass analyzer, or a linear acceleration time-of-flight mass analyzer.

[0187] like Figure 1As shown, isolation valve 1 can be positioned or arranged to insert itself or operate between the first ion guide 2 and the second ion guide 3, wherein both the first ion guide 2 and the second ion guide 3 are located in the same vacuum chamber. Therefore, isolation valve 1 does not create a differential pumping orifice, meaning that in normal operation, both the first ion guide 2 and the second ion guide 3 can operate at substantially the same pressure. Closing isolation valve 1 prevents fluid communication between the region upstream of isolation valve 1 and the region downstream of isolation valve 1, allowing first-stage venting of the vacuum chamber upstream of isolation valve 1 without affecting the vacuum in the main analyzer housing and the downstream vacuum chamber (one or more).

[0188] like Figure 1 As shown, the ends of the electrodes of the first ion guide 2 can be beveled, bent, or other shaped to better accommodate the contours of the spherical section isolation valve 1. In particular, a compact arrangement can be formed, which allows for close positioning of the first ion guide 2 and the second ion guide 3.

[0189] The first ion guide 2 can be easily removed, thus allowing for cleaning or replacement. In particular, the first ion guide 2 can be safely removed by a non-skilled user without the risk of electric shock or damage to sensitive ion optics and / or electrical connections.

[0190] like Figure 3 As shown, the first ion guide 2 can be mounted on or form part of the first ion optical assembly. According to various embodiments, the first ion optical assembly may include a multipole assembly arranged at its upstream end within a circular housing or collar. Figure 3 As shown, the circular housing or collar may further include one or more contact plates 6 arranged to connect to corresponding electrical contacts disposed in the second component or housing, the second component or housing being arranged to engage and interlock with the first component. The first ion optics component may be removable, and the second component or housing may be fixed.

[0191] According to various embodiments, the first ion optical component or a first component that may include electrodes forming a first ion guide may be arranged to be removable, while the second component may be arranged to remain in place and not removable, at least by a non-skilled user.

[0192] The first component may include one or more plates or other planes that can be arranged to slide into guide rails disposed on the second component. The first component may, for example, include one or more base plates having guide rails 5 along the outer or side edges of the plate(s). The guide rails 5 may be arranged to be received within and slide therein in one or more guide bearings 4, which may be attached to the second component or housing or otherwise form part of the second component or housing.

[0193] Also considered is an embodiment in which the first (removable) component may include one or more guide bearings, and the second (fixed) component may include one or more guide mechanisms or rails.

[0194] Considering other embodiments, the first component may include one or more guide bearings and / or one or more guide mechanisms or guide rails, and the second component may include one or more guide bearings and / or one or more guide mechanisms or guide rails.

[0195] Another embodiment is also considered, in which the second component can also be removed from the vacuum chamber.

[0196] Figure 3 An illustrative embodiment is shown, comprising two guide bearings 4 and two guide rails 5, which allows the first ion optics assembly to be pulled out and removed in a direction parallel to the ion optical axis without the risk of accidental contact with any critical positioning components inside the first stage of the vacuum housing.

[0197] When the first ion guide 2 (optical component) is inserted or removed, the axial movement direction of the shaped end profile of the first ion guide 2 (electrode) and the shape or profile of the isolation valve 1 allows the isolation valve 1 to swing, rotate or otherwise move from the open or fully open position to the closed or fully closed position, while minimizing the distance between the outlet of the first ion guide 2 and the inlet or inlet region of the second ion guide 3.

[0198] Removing or inserting the first ion guide 2 in the transverse direction relative to the ion optical axis (i.e., orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and the ion optical axis of the first ion guide 2) will require the electrode forming the first ion guide 2 to retract from the volume closed by the isolation valve.

[0199] Electrical connections to the first ion guide 2 can be made inside or within the vacuum chamber or first vacuum chamber of the mass spectrometer or ion mobility spectrometer via one or more contact plates 6. One or more contact plates 6 may form part of the first ion guide 2 (optical assembly). The one or more contact plates 6, provided as part of the first ion guide 2 (optical assembly), may be arranged to engage with one or more contacts 7 that may form part of a second assembly or housing, providing electrical contact.

[0200] like Figure 4 As shown, one or more contacts 7 that may form part of the second component or housing may include electric spring contacts 7. According to various embodiments, the spring contacts 7 may include one or more pins or protrusions that may be slotted to engage with a contact plate 6 disposed as part of the first component. The one or more contact plates 6 disposed as part of the first component may also have protrusions, notches, or other engagement mechanisms for engaging with corresponding contacts 7 disposed in the second component or housing. One or more of the spring contacts 7 may be, for example, axially spring-loaded such that they can axially retract a short distance into the housing of the second component.

[0201] Also consider embodiments in which one or more contact plates 6 are provided as part of a second component or housing, and one or more contacts or spring contacts 7 are provided as part of a first component.

[0202] Other embodiments are also considered, in which the first component may include a mixture of contact plate 6 and contact or spring contact 7, and / or in which the second component or housing may include a mixture of contact plate 6 and contact or spring contact 7.

[0203] The contact plate 6 and the corresponding spring contact 7 (contact element) allow the first ion guide 2 (optical assembly) to be easily removed and replaced without disconnecting or connecting a complex series of wires or plugs. In particular, the first ion guide assembly can be electrically disconnected and removed by an unskilled user without the risk of electric shock or damage to sensitive power sources or other components located in the vacuum chamber.

[0204] The first ion guiding assembly may include a housing having an upstream or frontal portion that engages with the front end, panel, flange, or section of the mass spectrometer of the first vacuum chamber. The first ion guiding assembly may be arranged, for example, to be positioned in use such that the front of the first ion guiding assembly is substantially flush with the front end, panel, flange, or section of the first vacuum chamber or the mass spectrometer. A guide rail or other engagement mechanism provided as part of the first assembly ensures that the first ion guide 2 can only be inserted into the first vacuum chamber of the mass spectrometer at a single desired position or orientation. For example, the guiding mechanism may be provided on a horizontal plane at the bottom or top of the first assembly. Alternatively, the guiding mechanism may be provided on a vertical plane on one or both sides of the first assembly.

[0205] The arrangement of the guiding components ensures that the first component, including the first ion guide 2, can only be inserted into the vacuum chamber in the correct orientation. Conversely, with a known arrangement, the first ion guide may be inadvertently reinstalled in a different orientation than before, which may result in the need to adjust or recalibrate the mass spectrometer to ensure optimal performance.

[0206] According to various embodiments, the first ion guiding assembly can only be inserted back into the first vacuum chamber or vacuum cell of the mass spectrometer with the exact same orientation as before. Therefore, once the first ion guiding assembly is reinserted, no adjustment or recalibration of the mass spectrometer is required.

[0207] The first ion guiding component can be locked, positioned, or otherwise secured in its initial position via, for example, a pressure release mechanism. According to various embodiments, the pressure release mechanism may include a spring-loaded latch mechanism 8 as shown in FIG. 5. The pressure release mechanism or spring-loaded latch mechanism 8 allows the first component containing the first ion guide to be released or otherwise freed from being secured in the first vacuum chamber of the mass spectrometer. In particular, the ion guide can be removed without any extraction tools or the services of a professional engineer. According to various embodiments, pressing the latch 8 releases the component, thereby allowing it to be removed from the vacuum chamber.

[0208] It is conceivable that, for example, the first ion guiding assembly and the process of removing the first ion guiding assembly may be performed by unskilled personnel. For instance, a mass spectrometer or other analytical instrument may be operated by a nurse in a surgical setting to analyze biological samples in a clinical setting. It is also conceivable that the first ion guiding assembly may include a consumable portion that can be easily replaced with a new ion guiding assembly when it becomes contaminated. In a military setting, for example, a mass spectrometer may be operated in a field hospital, and it may be desirable to extend the lifespan of the mass spectrometer by replacing the first ion guiding assembly with a new one. The new ion guiding assembly may include a component that is cheaper, simpler, or less robust than the ion guiding assembly it replaces, but the purpose of replacing the ion guiding assembly may be to extend the lifespan of the mass spectrometer, especially during periods of high demand or in emergency situations.

[0209] like Figure 5A and 5B As shown, the front surface of the mass spectrometer or the first vacuum chamber may include one or more protrusions that engage or insert into one or more recesses, pores, or openings disposed on the front surface, flange, or plate of the first ion guiding assembly. Alternatively, the front surface, flange, or plate of the first ion guiding assembly may include one or more protrusions that engage or insert into one or more recesses, pores, or openings disposed on the front surface of the mass spectrometer or the first vacuum chamber.

[0210] Other embodiments may be considered, in which the first ion guiding component may use different forms of snap-fit ​​or latching mechanisms to secure the first ion guiding component to the front or inside of the main body of the mass spectrometer housing, or to the first vacuum chamber.

[0211] One or more pores and / or ion extraction electrodes may be disposed on the front side, flange, or plate of the first ion guiding assembly, through which ions from the ion source are transported, such that the ions are received by the electrodes forming the first ion guiding assembly.

[0212] One or more plates or ion extraction electrodes (which may be removable) may be disposed on the front side, flange, or plate of the first ion guiding assembly, wherein the one or more plates have one or more pores through which ions are arranged in use. The one or more plates or ion extraction electrodes may be conductive and may be arranged to act as electrodes to guide, attract, or accelerate ions through the one or more pores and into the first ion guide.

[0213] According to various embodiments, the size of one or more orifices may be larger than that of a differential pumping orifice. According to other embodiments, one or more orifices may be sized to form a differential pumping orifice, wherein, in use, the pressure upstream of the orifice is greater than the pressure downstream of the orifice. For example, the pressure upstream of one or more orifices may be arranged to be at atmospheric pressure or ambient pressure, while the pressure downstream of one or more orifices may be arranged to be below atmospheric pressure or ambient pressure. According to one embodiment, an ion source including a capillary may be located near an orifice disposed on the front side, flange, or plate of a first ion guiding assembly.

[0214] Once the isolation valve 1 is closed, the pressure inside the first vacuum chamber or the vacuum chamber containing or accommodating the first ion guide 2 can be increased to atmospheric pressure or ambient pressure by opening the exhaust valve, which can be fitted to the exhaust / pump port of the first vacuum chamber or the vacuum chamber.

[0215] Many different embodiments can be considered depending on how the ion source can be positioned near the front end of the mass spectrometer and optionally relatively close to one or more ion inlet pores and / or ion extraction electrodes disposed on the front side, flange, or plate of the first ion guiding assembly.

[0216] For example, according to various embodiments, a MALDI ion source may be provided. The MALDI ion source may be housed within a housing that may form a gate assembly with the front end or vacuum chamber or first vacuum chamber of a mass spectrometer (or other analytical instrument).

[0217] Once the first ion guide is in the proper position within the vacuum chamber, the sample analysis chamber door (if present) can be closed. The first vacuum chamber can then be pumped using a roughing pump via a pumping port contained within the first vacuum housing or vacuum chamber housing.

[0218] Once the pressure in the first vacuum chamber has dropped to a level comparable to that in the ion source, isolation valve 1 can be opened, and the instrument can be resumed.

[0219] However, it should be understood that many different types of ion sources can dock with the front of the mass spectrometer or the first vacuum chamber and with the associated first ion guiding assembly positioned therein or located therein.

[0220] In addition to means that allow for the rapid removal or replacement of ion guides or ion guiding assemblies for cleaning or other purposes, the configurations according to various embodiments also allow for alternative configurations of ion guides (multiples), ion guides and ion optics assemblies, and atmospheric sampling apertures. For example, according to one embodiment, the ion guiding assembly can be replaced with a collision surface assembly.

[0221] According to one embodiment, the second component disposed within the vacuum chamber can be arranged to receive a first ion guide or ion optics component with different configurations. For example, it is conceivable that the first ion guide component comprising a hexapole assembly can be replaced by an ion guide component comprising a quadpole or octapole assembly.

[0222] According to other embodiments, a first ion guiding assembly, including annular electrodes, perforated electrodes, rod electrodes, or another electrode arrangement, can be replaced by a similar arrangement, but wherein the inscribed radius or ion guiding volume is smaller, larger, or has a different profile. Alternatively, entirely different ion guiding assemblies can be introduced. For example, a multi-bar ion guiding arrangement can be replaced by an ion guiding arrangement with a different geometry (such as an ion tunnel or ion funnel ion guiding arrangement). Another embodiment is also considered, in which an ion guiding arrangement having a certain axial electrode spacing can be replaced by another ion guiding arrangement with a different axial electrode spacing. It is also contemplated that an ion guiding arrangement having a first electrical connection configuration can be replaced by another ion guiding arrangement having a second, different electrical connection configuration. For example, according to one embodiment, an ion tunnel arrangement in which adjacent electrodes maintain opposite phases of AC or RF voltage can be replaced by a different ion tunnel arrangement, wherein the electrodes are arranged in pairs such that two axially adjacent electrodes maintain a first phase of AC or RF voltage, and the next pair of axially adjacent electrodes maintains a second, different phase of AC or RF voltage.

[0223] refer to Figure 6 The interface 9 between the front, flange, or plate of the first vacuum chamber and the first ion guide may include an O-ring seal arrangement. The first ion guiding assembly may include an extraction electrode 10 having pores through which ions are transported during use. The pores of the extraction electrode 10 exposed to the outside of the first vacuum chamber may be reduced, or the extraction electrode 10 may be fitted with a sampling capillary such that the arrangement forms a differential pumping pore between the first vacuum chamber and the surrounding atmosphere.

[0224] One possible embodiment is that the initial electrode of the first ion guide 2 (optical component) can be modified from a MALDI extraction electrode with a relatively large diameter pore designed to operate under vacuum to an atmospheric sampling device with a relatively small pore, which can act as a differential pumping pore.

[0225] Figure 7 The diagram shows that the ion source may be disposed within or located within the housing 11. The housing 11 may be maintained at a pressure below atmospheric pressure, and the ion source may include an ion source operating at a pressure below atmospheric pressure. For example, according to various embodiments, a MALDI ion source may be provided within the housing 11. The MALDI ion source may include an ion source operating at a pressure below atmospheric pressure. Although in Figure 7 The MALDI ion source is shown, but it should be understood that other ion sources below atmospheric pressure can be provided alternatively. Furthermore, other embodiments are conceivable in which an atmospheric pressure or ambient ion source can be provided within the housing 11.

[0226] The housing 11 can be arranged to pivot, rotate, swing, or otherwise latch into engagement with the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber. The housing 11 can be opened from the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber. According to various embodiments, the ion source housing 11 can form a door cover, such that the housing 11 or the door cover can swing or slide into a sealing engagement with the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber. The door cover may have a cam arrangement that pushes the door cover upward against the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber to seal it.

[0227] According to various embodiments, the housing 11 or door cover can accommodate the MALDI sample stage. The MALDI sample stage can operate under conditions below atmospheric pressure during use.

[0228] The housing 11 or door cover is removable from the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber. Specifically, the housing 11 or door cover may be arranged such that it can be lifted or otherwise removed from the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber, thereby allowing one or more alternative configurations of the ion source to be positioned close to the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber. In particular, one or more alternative configurations of the ion source may be positioned or otherwise positioned close to the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber. For example, one or more alternative ion sources may be positioned adjacent to or close to the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber. One or more alternative ion sources may be positioned such that the ion source is aligned with the ion inlet aperture and optionally associated extraction electrode, which may be disposed on the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber.

[0229] Therefore, it will be apparent that in the first operating mode, the housing 11 or the outer cover can be fixed to the vacuum chamber to align the ion source with the ion inlet port. Then, the housing 11 or the outer cover may not be fixed to the vacuum chamber, and a second, different ion source may be located or positioned near the ion inlet port.

[0230] According to various embodiments, the housing 11 or door cover can be removed from the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber and then manually rotated 90°. The housing 11 or door cover can then be manually reattached to the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber to provide a platform or mounting stage for the ion source.

[0231] It is evident that the entire initial stage, ion source, or ion source is openable or easily accessible, thus facilitating user access.

[0232] The door cover or mechanism may be arranged to latch or otherwise secure or lock to the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber, such that the interior of the door cover forms a fluid seal with the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber. As a result, the interior of the housing 11, door housing, or door cover or mechanism, including, for example, a sample stage disposed within the housing, can be maintained at a pressure below atmospheric pressure. The housing 11 or door cover may have a first connector or first device that can be secured to a second connector or second device disposed on the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber. According to various embodiments, the housing 11 or door cover may have protrusions, clips, or latches that can be secured to corresponding protrusions, clips, or latches disposed on the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber.

[0233] However, it should be understood that providing an ion source installed within the door mechanism and maintained at a pressure below atmospheric pressure is not essential, and various embodiments in which the ion source may include an atmospheric pressure ion source are conceivable.

[0234] A housing 11 or door enclosure may surround the translation stage, such as a MALDI translation stage. The translation stage may include an xy translation stage. The translation stage may be arranged to translate a sample or multiple discrete samples in the x and / or y directions, both of which are orthogonal to the z direction, which corresponds to the ion optical axis. The ion optical axis (and therefore the z direction) may pass through an ion inlet aperture located on the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber.

[0235] A laser beam or laser pulse can be arranged to pass through an ion inlet aperture located on the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber. The laser beam or laser pulse can be generated by a laser located within the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber, and can pass through the ion inlet aperture in a direction toward the housing 11 or the outer door enclosure. The laser beam or laser pulse can be arranged to irradiate one or more samples, which can be mounted on a translation stage located within the housing 11 or the outer door enclosure. Therefore, the translation stage can be arranged to translate one or more samples relative to the laser beam or laser pulse to ionize the sample or different portions or sections of different samples. For example, the translation stage can be arranged to move one or more samples to be analyzed relative to the laser beam or laser pulse, such that the laser beam or laser pulse is effectively scanned across the sample surface or from one sample to another.

[0236] Figure 8 Another feature is shown, in which, in the second operating mode, the housing 11 or door cover can be removed or detached from the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber. The housing 11 or door cover can then be manually rotated 90°. The housing 11 or door cover can then be manually reattached to the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber. Alternatively, the housing 11 or door cover can be simply positioned close to the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber without actually being securely attached to the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber.

[0237] It is evident that, in the second operating mode, housing 11 or the door cover can no longer be used as a housing or door cover. Instead, housing 11, the door assembly, or the door cover can effectively provide a platform, support, or base for a second ion source, which may include an atmospheric pressure or ambient ion source.

[0238] like Figure 8 As shown, housing 11 or door cover can be configured to open, allowing the xy stage or other translation stage to be horizontally positioned, thereby providing a platform for alternative atmospheric or environmental sampling techniques. For example, an xy stage can be provided to enable spatial sampling. Various embodiments are contemplated, in which a desorption electrospray ionization (“DESI”) ion source, a cryogenic plasma (“LTP”) ion source, a direct real-time analysis (“DART”) ion source, an inductively coupled plasma (“ICP”) ion source, or other ion sources can be provided. In a second operating mode, as shown... Figure 8 The configuration shown provides a second ion source, which can then translate a sample mounted on a translation stage or multiple samples placed on a sample plate in the x or y direction, wherein the x and / or y directions are orthogonal to the z direction. The z direction may be parallel to the ion optical axis, which may pass through an ion inlet aperture located on the front of the instrument, mass spectrometer, or vacuum chamber.

[0239] Therefore, in the second operating mode, the translation stage can be translated in a direction parallel to the ion optical axis and also in a direction perpendicular to the ion optical axis.

[0240] In a first operating mode, when an ion source operating at sub-atmospheric pressure is available within housing 11 or the gate assembly, ions generated by the ion source can be arranged to pass through a first interface. For example, the first interface may include an ion inlet orifice and an extraction electrode. In a second operating mode, when a different ion source (e.g., atmospheric pressure or an ambient ion source) is used, ions generated by the ion source can be arranged to pass through a second, different interface. The second interface may, for example, include a capillary, a nozzle-skimmer interface, or an ion inlet orifice and an extraction electrode. The size of the ion inlet orifice may differ between the first and second operating modes. Similarly, different configurations or arrangements of the extraction electrode can be used or provided when switching between the first and second operating modes.

[0241] Although the invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A mass spectrometer and / or ion mobility spectrometer, comprising: Vacuum chamber; A housing located within the vacuum chamber and having a guiding mechanism; and A first ion optical component, which is capable of sliding or translating in conjunction with the guiding mechanism, thereby enabling the first ion optical component to be inserted into and aligned within the vacuum chamber. The first ion optical component includes a guide rail, and the guiding mechanism of the housing includes a guide bearing, wherein the guide rail of the first ion optical component is slidable within the guide bearing of the housing.

2. The mass spectrometer and / or ion mobility spectrometer according to claim 1, wherein the first ion optical component further includes a sealing member having an ion inlet orifice therein, wherein the sealing member is arranged to seal the front of the vacuum chamber.

3. The mass spectrometer and / or ion mobility spectrometer according to claim 2, further comprising a releasable latch for securing the sealing member to the front of the vacuum chamber and / or for securing the first ion optical assembly to the vacuum chamber.

4. The mass spectrometer and / or ion mobility spectrometer according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first ion optical component further includes a first electrical connector, and the housing further includes a second electrical connector, wherein in use, inserting the first ion optical component into the vacuum chamber causes the first electrical connector to connect with the second electrical connector.

5. The mass spectrometer and / or ion mobility spectrometer according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the vacuum chamber includes a vacuum chamber ion inlet orifice. The mass spectrometer and / or ion mobility spectrometer further includes a component for accommodating a first sub-atmospheric pressure ion source, wherein in a first operating mode, the component accommodating the first sub-atmospheric pressure ion source is fixed to the vacuum chamber to align the first sub-atmospheric pressure ion source with the ion inlet orifice of the vacuum chamber, and wherein in a second operating mode, the component accommodating the first sub-atmospheric pressure ion source is detachable, thereby allowing different second ion sources to be located near the ion inlet orifice of the vacuum chamber.

6. The mass spectrometer and / or ion mobility spectrometer according to claim 5, wherein in the second operating mode, the component housing the first sub-atmospheric ion source may be attached to the vacuum chamber or another part of the mass spectrometer and / or ion mobility spectrometer.

7. The mass spectrometer and / or ion mobility spectrometer of claim 6, wherein in the second operating mode, the component accommodating the first subatmospheric ion source includes a translation stage, wherein the translation stage is translatable in a first direction parallel to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet orifice of the vacuum chamber and / or in a second direction perpendicular to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet orifice of the vacuum chamber.

8. A method for operating a mass spectrometer and / or an ion mobility spectrometer, comprising: One or more guide rails of the first ion optical component slide within one or more guide bearings of the housing located in the vacuum chamber, thereby enabling the first ion optical component to be inserted into and aligned within the vacuum chamber.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the first ion optical component further comprises a sealing member having an ion inlet orifice therein, wherein the sealing member is arranged to seal the front portion of the vacuum chamber.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising using a releasable latch to perform at least one of the following: The sealing member is fixed to the front of the vacuum chamber, and The first ion optical component is fixed in the vacuum chamber.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising using the releasable latch to remove or extract the first ion optics assembly from the vacuum chamber.

12. The method of claim 8 or 9, wherein the first ion optics component further comprises a first electrical connector, the housing further comprises a second electrical connector, and the method further comprises: The first ion optical component is inserted into the vacuum chamber, thereby connecting the first electrical connector to the second electrical connector.

13. The method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the vacuum chamber includes a vacuum chamber ion inlet orifice, and the method further comprises: In the first operating mode, the assembly housing a first sub-atmospheric ion source is fixed to the vacuum chamber so that the first sub-atmospheric ion source is aligned with the ion inlet port of the vacuum chamber, and In the second operating mode, the assembly housing the first sub-atmospheric ion source is disassembled and a different second ion source is positioned near the ion inlet port of the vacuum chamber.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: In the second operating mode, the component containing the first ion source at a pressure below atmospheric pressure is attached to the vacuum chamber.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein in the second operating mode, the component housing the first subatmospheric ion source comprises a translation stage, and the method further comprises at least one of the following: The translation stage is translated in a first direction parallel to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet orifice of the vacuum chamber, and The translation stage is translated in a second direction perpendicular to the ion transport direction through the ion inlet orifice of the vacuum chamber.

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