Frequency Modulated RF Ion Manipulation Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ion manipulation devices require separate RF fields for radial confinement and DC gradients or traveling waves for axial ion movement, increasing complexity and cost, whereas a single frequency modulated RF field can confine and guide ions axially without additional DC fields.
Innovation Solution
Applying a frequency modulated RF voltage to inner electrodes of an ion manipulation device, which creates a traveling pseudopotential that both confines ions radially and moves them axially, eliminating the need for separate DC gradients or traveling waves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate RF fields and DC gradients are used for ion confinement and axial movement, then ion manipulation is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of radial ion confinement and axial ion transport into a single frequency-modulated RF field applied to a unified electrode structure. The RF field with frequency modulation simultaneously creates the pseudopotential well for radial confinement and the traveling wave component for axial transport, eliminating the need for separate DC gradient fields and reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The single RF electrode structure performs multiple functions: it generates the pseudopotential for radial ion confinement, creates the traveling wave for axial ion transport, and enables ion mobility separation. This multi-functional electrode design replaces what would traditionally require separate specialized components for each function
2Reliability
If separate RF fields and DC gradients are used for ion confinement and axial movement, then ion manipulation is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the requirements for separate RF electrodes and DC gradient electrodes into a single RF electrode structure that handles both radial confinement and axial transport through frequency modulation, reducing the total component count and manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 2:
The universal RF electrode design performs multiple functions that would traditionally require separate specialized components, reducing the bill of materials and simplifying manufacturing processes while maintaining full ion manipulation capability
3Reliability
If traditional ion guides are used, then ion confinement is achieved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines radial confinement and axial transport functions into a single compact electrode structure with frequency-modulated RF fields, eliminating the need for extended device lengths that would be required for separate DC gradient sections or traveling wave structures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses frequency modulation of the RF field to dynamically control both the depth of the pseudopotential well for radial confinement and the velocity of the traveling wave for axial transport, enabling compact device design through dynamic parameter control rather than fixed geometric structures
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 simplifies device design, reduces cost and complexity, and enables miniaturization by using a single voltage source for ion confinement and axial movement, while effectively separating ions based on their mobility.
Implementation Method 1
applying a frequency modulated RF voltage to at least one electrode of the first inner array of electrodes or the second inner array of electrodes to confine ions between the first surface and the second surface and to guide ions between the first surface and the second surface along the central axis
Implementation Method 2
Radio Frequency (RF) fields are commonly utilized in ion traps and ion guides for ion confinement. RF voltages are typically applied 180° out of phase to effectively generate a pseudopotential that confines ions
Data Source
AI summary
A method of manipulating ions comprises injecting ions between a first surface and a second surface positioned parallel to and spaced apart from each other and defining a central axis therebetween, wherein the first surface comprises first outer electrodes coupled to the first surface and a first inner array of electrodes coupled to the first surface and positioned between the first outer electrodes, wherein the second surface comprises second outer electrodes coupled to the second surface and a second inner array of electrodes coupled to the second surface and positioned between the second outer electrodes, and applying a frequency modulated RF voltage to at least one electrode of the first inner array of electrodes or the second inner array of electrodes to confine ions between the first surface and the second surface and to guide ions between the first surface and the second surface along the central axis.