Exchangeable Ablation Cell Interface for LA-ICP-MS Peak Width Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current LA-ICP-MS systems require different ablation cells and transport configurations for bulk and spatial analysis, leading to inefficiencies in switching between applications, limited control over peak widths, and challenges in optimizing sample plane to collection orifice distance, resulting in suboptimal aerosol transport and signal resolution.

Innovation Solution

A user-exchangeable ablation cell interface system that allows switching between particle-collection-to-transport-tubing configurations, enabling rapid adaptation between high-speed and analytical modes by adjusting the sample plane to collection orifice distance and laser focus, using interchangeable interfaces that can be swapped in minutes, and software control for precise adjustments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple ablation cells are used for different analysis modes, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveanalysis mode versatilityVSAvoidnumber of ablation cells

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal ablation cell design with interchangeable interface components that can be configured for different analysis modes (bulk and spatial) without requiring multiple complete ablation cells. The cell body remains the same while interface elements are swapped to adapt functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The ablation cell is divided into modular components including a permanent cell body and interchangeable interface elements. This segmentation allows users to swap only the necessary interface components rather than replacing entire ablation cells, reducing complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Device complexity

If ablation cell interfaces are fixed, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability worsens

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinterface configurationVSAvoidmode switching capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The ablation cell incorporates dynamic, interchangeable interface elements that can be swapped between different configurations. This allows the system to adapt its structure based on the required analysis mode, transitioning from a static to a dynamically reconfigurable design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables parameter changes by allowing users to swap interface components with different geometric parameters (such as orifice distances and angles). This changes the physical parameters of the ablation cell to optimize performance for different analysis modes without redesigning the entire cell.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If sample plane to collection orifice distance is increased, then spatial resolution is improved, but aerosol transport efficiency worsens

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespatial resolutionVSAvoidaerosol transport efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by providing different interface configurations optimized for specific functions. Some interfaces have shorter orifice distances optimized for transport efficiency, while others have longer distances optimized for spatial resolution, allowing users to select the appropriate local configuration for each analysis mode.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables flexible and efficient aerosol transport with adjustable peak widths and improved spatial resolution, reducing the need for multiple ablation cells and minimizing dispersion, while maintaining optimal sample handling and signal quality across different analysis modes.

Implementation Method 1

ablating a portion of the target with one or more laser pulses to generate a plume containing particles and/or vapor ejected or otherwise generated from the target

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLaser ablation: Laser Ablation

Implementation Method 2

Entrained within the flowing carrier gas, the target material is transported to an analysis system via a transport conduit

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAerosol transport: Aerosol

Implementation Method 3

transported to an analysis system via a transport conduit to an ICP torch where it is ionized

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInductively coupled plasma ionization: Ionisation

Data Source

PatentUS11837454B2User exchangeable ablation cell interface to alter LA-ICP-MS peak widths

Publication Date: 2023.12.05 ELEMENTAL SCI LASERS LLC

AI summary

In an embodiment, a laser ablation system can include a laser ablation cell and at least a pair of particle-collection-to-transport-tubing interfaces. The laser ablation cell can be configured for ablating a sample or another material, and the laser ablation cell can include a laser unit. The at least a pair of particle-collection-to-transport-tubing interfaces can be configured to gather an ablated sample and direct the ablated sample to an analysis unit. A selected particle-collection-to-transport-tubing interface can be received by the laser ablation cell directly above the laser unit. The at least a pair of particle-collection-to-transport-tubing interfaces can be configured to be interchangeable with one another.