Adjustable Electrode Geometries for Mass Separation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The limited adjustability of electric fields within typical mass selective detectors, such as ion trap mass selectors, hinders the optimization of mass separation performance.
Innovation Solution
The use of novel electrode geometries with orthogonally related rises and runs allows for the optimization of electric fields within mass selective detectors, enabling precise control of mass separation parameters by modifying the geometry of the electrodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If typical hyperbolic ion trap electrodes are used with fixed geometry, then the device structure is simple, but the electric field adjustability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the electrode geometry adjustable rather than fixed. The electrodes can be reconfigured between different geometric arrangements (e.g., hyperbolic, parallel plate, cylindrical) to dynamically change the electric field characteristics within the mass selective detector, thereby achieving adaptability without permanently increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes geometric parameters of the electrodes (such as spacing, orientation, and shape) to optimize electric field characteristics for different mass separation requirements. By varying parameters like electrode distance and angular orientation, the system achieves versatile electric field control while maintaining relatively simple electrode structures
2Manufacturing precision
If electrode spacing and hyperbolic angle are adjusted to optimize electric field, then mass separation performance improves, but the adjustment range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the electrode system into multiple independently adjustable components. Rather than adjusting a single hyperbolic electrode pair, the system divides the electric field generation into separate controllable elements that can be individually optimized, thereby expanding the overall optimization range while maintaining precise mass separation performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates multi-functional electrodes that can serve multiple purposes: mass separation, ion trapping, and electric field shaping. By designing electrodes that can perform multiple functions through geometric reconfiguration, the system achieves broader optimization capability without requiring additional specialized components
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
This approach enhances the mass separation performance by allowing for tailored electric fields, improving the detection and analysis of ions in mass spectrometry instruments.
Implementation Method 1
The electric field within these ion traps such as typical hyperbolic traps can be fine-tuned by adjusting the electrode spacing and/or hyperbolic angle of electrodes within the trap
Data Source
AI summary
Mass separators are provided that can include at least one electrode component having a surface, in one cross section, defining at least two runs associated via at least one rise, the rise being orthogonally related to the runs. Mass selective detectors are provided that can include at least a first pair of opposing electrodes with each of the opposing electrodes having a complimentary surface, in one cross section, defining at least two runs associated via a rise. Methods for optimizing mass separation within a mass selective detector are also provided, including providing mass separation parameters; providing one set electrodes within the separator having a surface operatively aligned within the separator, the surface, in one cross section, defining at least two runs associated via a rise, the rise being orthogonally related to the runs; and modifying one or both of the rise and/or runs to achieve the mass separation parameters.