Adapter for Direct Sample Analysis Vacuum Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for coupling direct sample analysis devices to mass spectrometers often require breaking the vacuum, removing lenses, or lengthening capillaries, leading to delays and inefficiencies in sample analysis.
Innovation Solution
The development of adapters that include capillary sleeves and end cap extensions configured for friction fit coupling to the mass spectrometer's capillary inlet, with insulators for electrical decoupling and centering, allowing for fluidic coupling without breaking the vacuum or removing lenses, and enabling immediate sample analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing coupling methods are used to connect direct sample analysis devices to mass spectrometers, then fluidic coupling is achieved, but the vacuum must be broken and lenses must be removed, leading to long setup time
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is divided into multiple components: a capillary sleeve that couples to the capillary inlet, an end cap extension that couples to the lens assembly, and an insulator component. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function while maintaining the vacuum seal, enabling quick assembly without breaking vacuum or removing lenses.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter acts as an intermediary component between the direct sample analysis device and the mass spectrometer. It provides the necessary fluidic coupling and electrical isolation while maintaining vacuum integrity, eliminating the need to break vacuum or remove lenses during connection.
2Productivity
If existing coupling methods are used, then fluidic coupling is achieved, but the mass spectrometer vacuum environment is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter serves as a vacuum-compatible intermediary that enables fluidic coupling between the direct sample analysis device and the mass spectrometer without compromising the vacuum environment. The design allows sample introduction while maintaining vacuum seal.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is designed to maintain the inert vacuum environment of the mass spectrometer while allowing sample introduction. The coupling mechanism preserves the vacuum seal, preventing contamination and maintaining the reliability of the mass spectrometer operation.
3Ease of operation
If existing coupling methods are used, then connection is achieved, but lenses must be removed, increasing device complexity and setup time
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is segmented into a capillary sleeve portion and an end cap extension portion, allowing it to interface with both the capillary inlet and the lens assembly simultaneously. This segmentation enables coupling without removing lenses, simplifying the overall assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter performs multiple functions: it provides fluidic coupling, electrical isolation, and mechanical support for the lens assembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need to remove lenses during coupling, reducing assembly complexity and improving ease of operation.
4Ease of operation
If friction fit coupling is used, then quick connection is achieved, but electrical decoupling is required to maintain proper electrical isolation
Solution Approach 1:
The insulator component acts as an electrical intermediary between the capillary sleeve and the end cap extension. It provides the necessary electrical decoupling while allowing mechanical coupling through friction fit, maintaining both quick connection and proper electrical isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulator is positioned specifically at the interface where electrical isolation is needed, providing localized electrical decoupling. This allows the rest of the adapter to maintain simple friction fit coupling for ease of operation, while electrical isolation is achieved only where required.
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 direct sample analysis without breaking the vacuum or removing lenses, allowing for immediate sample analysis and reducing setup time from hours to minutes, while maintaining the integrity of the mass spectrometer's environment.
Implementation Method 1
the capillary sleeve comprises an insulator configured to electrically decouple the capillary sleeve from the end cap extension
Implementation Method 2
the capillary sleeve couples to the capillary inlet through a friction fit
Data Source
AI summary
Certain embodiments described herein are directed to adapters for use in coupling a direct sample analysis device to an analytical instrument such as, for example, a mass spectrometer. In some examples, the adapter can include an internal coupler separated from an external coupler through an insulator.