Coaxial Calibrant Introduction for Single-Ion-Source Mass Spectrometry

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional mass spectrometry systems require two points of ionization and a baffle, which are costly and can cause field effects and gas dynamics issues, while also preventing analyte ion analysis during calibration.

Innovation Solution

A mass spectrometry system with a single ion source and a valve that allows for coaxial introduction of a calibrant sample into the flow path, enabling calibration without a baffle and allowing continuous analyte ion analysis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If two points of ionization and a baffle are used to introduce calibrant, then calibration can be performed, but the system cost increases and field effects are generated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecalibration capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the analyte flow path and calibrant flow path into a single ion source, eliminating the need for separate ionization points and baffles. The valve directs either analyte or calibrant coaxially into the same ion source, reducing system complexity while maintaining calibration capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single ion source serves multiple functions: it ionizes both analyte molecules during normal operation and calibrant molecules during calibration. The valve system enables the ion source to switch between receiving analyte flow and calibrant flow, making it a universal ionization component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a baffle is used to block analyte ions during calibration, then calibrant ions can enter the mass spectrometer, but analyte analysis is prevented

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecalibrant introductionVSAvoidanalyte analysis continuity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The valve provides dynamic switching between analyte flow and calibrant flow paths. During calibration, the valve directs calibrant coaxially into the ion source while blocking analyte flow. During normal operation, the valve switches to allow analyte flow and block calibrant flow, enabling continuous analyte analysis without permanent blocking structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the blocking function from a physical baffle structure and replaces it with a valve-controlled flow switching mechanism. The valve temporarily blocks analyte flow during calibration by directing it away from the ion source, then restores normal analyte flow during analysis, eliminating the need for continuous physical blocking.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Reliability

If two points of ionization are used, then both analyte and calibrant can be ionized, but the cost and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveionization capabilityVSAvoidsystem cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines two separate ionization points into a single ion source. The valve system enables this single ion source to process both analyte and calibrant samples by directing them coaxially into the ion source at different times, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining ionization capability for both sample types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 solution reduces costs and eliminates field effects, allowing for effective calibration and continuous analyte analysis, resulting in improved system efficiency and accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

A common approach to ionizing the analyte is to use electrospray ionization. In electrospray ionization, an electrospray ionizer applies a high voltage to a liquid to create an aerosol containing analyte ions.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrospray ionization: Electrohydrodynamics

Implementation Method 2

The valve has a first position for filling a sample loop with the calibrant sample and a second position for causing the calibrant sample to flow from the sample loop to the second flow path onto the first flow path to the input of the ion source.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCoaxial flow introduction:

Implementation Method 3

Time of flight (TOF) mass spectrometers must be calibrated frequently. Based on these time of flight values, the mass spectrometer may be adjusted to be properly calibrated.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTime of flight: Time of Flight

Data Source

PatentUS12051582B2Coaxial introduction of calibrant in a flow path with analyte to an ion source

Publication Date: 2024.07.30 WATERS TECHNOLOGY CORP

AI summary

Exemplary embodiments may deploy a valve that introduces a sample of a calibrant coaxially with flow exiting a source of a mobile phase flow, such as a liquid chromatography (LC) column, on a path to an ion source for the mass spectrometer (MS). The valve may be positioned remotely on a branch that has a junction with the path leading form the source of the mobile phase flow to the ion source. Alternatively, the valve may be positioned in line on the flow path from the source of the mobile phase flow to the ion source of the MS. A novel five port valve design may be employed. With this valve design, a first position of the valve allows a sample loop for the calibrant to be filled. In a second position, the calibrant is added coaxially to the flow from the source of the mobile phase to the MS. In a third position of the valve, diversion of or infusion to a post-source flow is enabled.