Electrostatic Ion Trap Multi-Reflection Mass Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrostatic ion traps face limitations in dynamic range for ion signal detection, with low detection limits and high space charge tolerance, restricting the number of ions that can be analyzed without interference.
Innovation Solution
An electrostatic ion trap design featuring multiple reflection capabilities with planar or concentric electrode arrays, generating an isochronous electrostatic field for ion reflection and oscillation, allowing for higher order frequency components in image current detection, thereby enhancing sensitivity and mass resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If image current detection is used in electrostatic ion traps, then sensitivity and mass resolution are improved, but the dynamic range is limited due to low detection limits and high space charge tolerance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ion trap into multiple reflection zones between two electrode arrays, allowing ions to undergo multiple oscillations and reflections. This segmentation of the trapping space enables extended ion confinement time and improved mass resolution while maintaining the ability to handle larger ion populations through the multi-reflection geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional single-zone ion traps to a multi-dimensional electrode array configuration with planar or concentric geometries. This dimensional expansion creates multiple reflection paths and increases the effective trapping volume, thereby extending the dynamic range while preserving high mass resolution through isochronous oscillation conditions
2Quantity of substance
If the number of ions in the mass peak is increased, then signal strength is improved, but space charge effects interfere with the measurement of neighboring peaks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric electrode array configurations where the first and second arrays can have different geometries (planar vs. concentric) or different voltage patterns. This asymmetry allows optimization of the electric field distribution to reduce space charge effects while maintaining isochronous oscillation conditions, enabling higher ion population tolerance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes variable voltage patterns applied to the electrode arrays to dynamically adjust the electrostatic field configuration. By changing voltage parameters, the system can optimize trapping conditions for different ion populations, reducing space charge interference while maintaining detection sensitivity across a broader dynamic range
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
The design achieves improved sensitivity and mass resolution by allowing more ions to be analyzed with reduced space charge effects, increasing the dynamic range of ion detection and maintaining high vacuum conditions for extended ion oscillation periods.
Implementation Method 1
voltage being supplied, in use, to electrodes of the first and second arrays of electrodes to create an electrostatic field in the space between the electrode arrays
Implementation Method 2
electrodes of the first array and electrodes of the second array are supplied, in use, with substantially the same pattern of voltage whereby the distribution of electrical potential in said space is such as to reflect ions isochronously in a flight direction
Implementation Method 3
at least one electrode of said arrays is connected to amplifier circuitry for detection of image current having frequency components related to the mass-to-charge ratio of ions undergoing said periodic, oscillatory motion in said space
Data Source
AI summary
An electrostatic ion trap for mass analysis includes a first array of electrodes and a second array of electrodes, spaced from the first array of electrode. The first and second arrays of electrodes may be planar arrays formed by parallel strip electrodes or by concentric, circular or part-circular electrically conductive rings. The electrodes of the arrays are supplied with substantially the same pattern of voltage whereby the distribution of electrical potential in the space between the arrays is such as to reflect ions isochronously in a flight direction causing them to undergo periodic, oscillatory motion in the space, focused substantially mid-way between the arrays. Amplifier circuitry is used to detect image current having frequency components related to the mass-to-charge ratio of ions undergoing the periodic, oscillatory motion.