Electrostatic Ion Sampling Tube for Remote Mass Spectrometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sampling systems for mass spectrometry have limitations in collecting and transferring ions from large areas or remote locations, especially when samples cannot be brought into close proximity without destruction or complex protocols, hindering high-resolution analysis and throughput.
Innovation Solution
A multiple desorption ionization source system utilizing a length of tubing with electrostatic fields to direct ions into a vacuum region, allowing for increased sampling area and simultaneous analysis of multiple surfaces, combined with flexible capillary tubes for efficient ion transfer and improved sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the sampling area around the spectroscopy system is increased, then the range of sampling and throughput are improved, but the sensitivity and ion collection efficiency deteriorate due to the greater distance from the ionization source
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary electrostatic field between the ionization source and the spectrometer inlet to mediate the transport of ions over extended distances. The field is generated by applying a potential difference along the length of the sampling tube, creating a continuous force that propels ions from remote locations into the spectrometer, thereby maintaining sensitivity despite increased sampling area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical proximity-based ion collection with an electrostatic field-based transport system. Instead of relying on the sample being physically close to the spectrometer inlet, the system uses electric fields to accelerate and guide ions through extended tubing, enabling remote sampling while maintaining ion collection efficiency.
2Length of moving object
If the distance between the ionization source and spectrometer inlet is increased, then the ability to analyze large objects and remote samples is improved, but the ion collection efficiency and sensitivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces passive mechanical proximity with active electrostatic field-based ion transport. By applying a potential gradient along the sampling tube length, the system actively propels ions through the extended distance, compensating for the natural loss of ion collection efficiency that would occur over longer paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameter (potential difference) along the length of the sampling tube to optimize ion transport. By carefully controlling the voltage gradient, the system maintains ion kinetic energy and directionality over extended distances, preventing ion loss despite increased path length.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple tubes are used to increase the number of ions collected, then the overall ion count and sensitivity are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single sampling function into multiple parallel tubes, each independently collecting ions from different spatial regions. This segmentation allows the system to increase total ion collection by distributing sampling across multiple channels, with each tube maintaining simple individual construction while the aggregate system achieves enhanced sensitivity.
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 efficient collection and transfer of ions from a wider area, enhancing sensitivity and allowing for high-resolution analysis of large objects and samples that cannot be moved, improving throughput and reducing sample destruction.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a length of tubing with electrostatic fields to direct ions into a vacuum region
Implementation Method 2
wide diameter sampling tubes which can be used in combination with a vacuum inlet to draw ions and neutrals into the spectrometer for analysis
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides for efficient collection of analyte ions and neutral molecules from surfaces for their subsequent analysis with spectrometry. In an embodiment of the invention, a ‘multiple desorption ionization source’ includes a tube which can contain ions for subsequent sampling within a defined spatial resolution from desorption ionization at or near atmospheric pressures. In an embodiment, electrostatic fields are used to direct ions a plurality of tubes positioned in close proximity to the surface of the sample being analyzed. In an embodiment of the present invention, either narrow inside diameter capillary tubes or wide diameter tubes can be used in combination with a vacuum inlet to draw ions and neutrals into the spectrometer for analysis. In an embodiment of the invention, a dopant is introduced into a tube to analyze the sample. In an embodiment of the invention, a plurality of ionization sources is used to analyze the sample.