DC Multipole Ion Flow Guide for Mass Spectrometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mass spectrometers face issues with false signals and instrument contamination due to unwanted elements like photons within the particle stream, which affect the accuracy of ion analysis and instrument stability.
Innovation Solution
The use of DC multipoles, such as DC quadrupoles, to deflect ions along desired trajectories, separating ions of interest from other elements by applying direct current voltages to electrodes, creating orthogonal electric fields that guide ions through multiple stages of deflection, thereby reducing contamination and noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single multipole is used to direct ions, then the device complexity is low, but the ability to separate ions from unwanted elements (photons) is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The ion guide is divided into multiple discrete multipole segments (first multipole, second multipole, and optionally third multipole) that can be independently controlled. Each segment performs a specific function in the ion separation process, allowing for staged removal of different types of unwanted elements while maintaining precise control over ion trajectories.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a temporal dimension to the ion guiding process by using sequential switching between different multipole configurations. The system alternates between ion-guiding mode and photon-removal mode, creating a time-based separation dimension that enhances purification capability without requiring complex spatial arrangements.
2Measurement precision
If the multipole opening is made narrow to improve ion focusing, then the ion beam precision is improved, but the instrument becomes prone to contamination and fouling
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary removal of unwanted elements (photons, neutrals) from the particle stream before the ions enter the narrow opening of the mass analyzer. By pre-cleaning the beam using the multipole device with its controlled openings, the system prevents contamination at the critical narrow aperture while maintaining ion focus.
Solution Approach 2:
The multipole device acts as an intermediary between the ion source and the mass analyzer. It provides a buffer zone where unwanted elements can be removed and where ion trajectories can be refined before entering the sensitive narrow opening of the analyzer, protecting it from direct exposure to contaminated particle streams.
3Measurement precision
If photons are allowed to pass through the mass analyzer, then the device operation is simple, but false signals and noise are generated in the detector
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and removes photons from the particle stream using the multipole device before photons can reach the detector. By applying electric fields that deflect charged ions while allowing neutral photons to pass through to separate exits, the system selectively removes harmful photons from the ion beam, eliminating false signals at the detector.
Solution Approach 2:
The system converts the presence of photons from a harmful factor into a beneficial separation opportunity. By using the neutral nature of photons versus the charged nature of ions, the multipole device exploits this difference to achieve separation, turning what was originally a source of noise into a means of purification.
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 effectively directs ions along precise paths, reducing false signals and contamination, enhancing the accuracy of ion analysis and maintaining instrument stability by separating ions of interest from unwanted elements like photons.
Implementation Method 1
exposing the ions to electric and/or magnetic fields
Implementation Method 2
Ions may be directed along a path by exposing the ions to electric and/or magnetic fields
Implementation Method 3
applying direct current voltages to electrodes, creating orthogonal electric fields that guide ions through multiple stages of deflection
Data Source
AI summary
Certain configurations of devices are described herein that include DC multipoles that are effective to direct ions. In some instances, the devices include a first multipole configured to provide a DC electric field effective to direct first ions of an entering particle beam along a first exit trajectory that is substantially orthogonal to an entry trajectory of the particle beam. The devices may also include a second multipole configured to provide a DC electric field effective to direct the received first ions from the first multipole along a second exit trajectory that is substantially orthogonal to the first exit trajectory.