Dual-Mode Ion Guide for Mass Spectrometry
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mass spectrometers are limited in their ability to simultaneously separate ions based on both ion mobility and mass-to-charge ratio, often requiring different operational modes and pressures, which can compromise resolution and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A mass spectrometer design featuring a device with a multipole rod set, ion tunnel, or stack of electrodes, capable of applying both axial and radial electric fields in a manner that allows for temporal separation of ions according to ion mobility in one mode and mass-to-charge ratio in another, using a combination of continuous and pulsed electric fields to control ion velocity and confinement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional mass spectrometers use separate operational modes for ion mobility and mass analysis, then separation resolution is improved, but device complexity and operational time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ion guide device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can separate ions by ion mobility in a first operational mode and by mass-to-charge ratio in a second operational mode. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated devices for each separation type, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high resolution for both separation modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The ion guide operates dynamically by switching between different operational modes. By adjusting operational parameters such as electric field configuration and pressure conditions, the same physical device can adapt to perform either ion mobility separation or mass analysis, providing dynamic versatility without requiring multiple static configurations.
2Measurement precision
If conventional mass spectrometers require different pressures for ion mobility and mass analysis modes, then separation quality is improved, but loss of time and reduced productivity occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention maintains a substantially constant pressure condition throughout the ion guide device during operation. By changing operational parameters such as electric field strength and configuration rather than pressure, the device achieves different separation modes (ion mobility vs. mass analysis) without requiring pressure changes, thereby maintaining high productivity and duty cycle while preserving separation quality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional instruments require complex vacuum systems for dual-mode operation, then separation capabilities are improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The ion guide operates in an inert gas environment at substantially constant pressure, eliminating the need for complex vacuum systems. This approach maintains separation capabilities for both ion mobility and mass analysis while significantly simplifying the overall system and improving ease of operation, as the inert gas environment is inherently more stable and easier to maintain than vacuum conditions.
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 high-efficiency separation of ions in both ion mobility and mass-to-charge ratio modes at relatively high pressures, maintaining high transmission efficiency and allowing for a dual-mode operation without the need for complex vacuum systems, thereby enhancing the instrument's duty cycle and resolution.
Implementation Method 1
separate ions temporally according to their ion mobility
Implementation Method 2
separate ions according to their mass to charge ratio
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A mass spectrometer comprising a device for separating ions temporally comprising an ion guide comprising a plurality of electrodes, wherein in a first mode of operation said device is arranged and adapted to separate ions temporally according to their ion mobility and wherein in a second mode of operation said device is arranged and adapted to separate ions according to their mass to charge ratio.