Ion Detection System Dynamic Range via Segmented Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ion detection systems face challenges in achieving high dynamic range detection, particularly when dealing with varying ion arrival rates, as splitting the output signal between multiple amplifiers and digitizers can lead to signal distortion and non-linear responses due to saturation and reduced signal intensity.
Innovation Solution
The proposed ion detection system employs multiple ion collection regions with distinct output devices and amplification stages, allowing for separate signal processing and combination of intensity and arrival time data to form a combined data set, thereby increasing dynamic range without the limitations of single-electrode splitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the output signal is split between multiple amplifiers and ADCs to increase dynamic range, then the dynamic range is improved, but signal distortion and non-linear response occur due to saturation and reduced signal intensity
Solution Approach 1:
The single electrode is divided into multiple independent collection regions (first collection region, second collection region, etc.), each with its own amplifier and ADC. This segmentation allows each region to independently process ions without interfering with others, maintaining signal linearity while collectively covering a wider dynamic range through parallel operation of multiple channels with different gain settings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional signal processing approach (one electrode, one amplifier, one ADC) to a multi-dimensional parallel processing architecture. Multiple collection regions operate simultaneously with different amplification gains, creating an additional dimension of signal processing capability that expands dynamic range without compromising the linearity of individual channels.
2Measurement precision
If the gain of the electron multiplier is increased to ensure efficient detection of single ion arrivals, then detection sensitivity is improved, but the maximum output pulse of the electron multiplier is exceeded at high ion arrival rates, leading to non-linear response
Solution Approach 1:
Different collection regions are assigned different amplification gains tailored to their specific operational requirements. Regions optimized for single ion detection use higher gain settings for maximum sensitivity, while regions handling higher ion fluxes use lower gain settings to maintain linearity. This local optimization of gain parameters allows each region to operate in its optimal performance regime without compromising overall system reliability.
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 enhances the system's ability to detect both low and high ion arrival rates, preventing signal distortion and maintaining linearity across a wide range of ion counts, thus improving the accuracy and reliability of mass and ion mobility measurements.
Implementation Method 1
one or more first devices configured to produce secondary electrons in response to incident ions
Data Source
AI summary
An ion detection system is disclosed that comprises one or more first devices 11 configured to produce secondary electrons in response to incident ions. The one or more first devices 11 comprise a first ion collection region and a second ion collection region and are configured to produce first secondary electrons in response to one or more ions incident at the first ion collection region and to produce second secondary electrons in response to one or more ions incident at the second ion collection region. The ion detection system also comprises a first output device 14 configured to output a first signal in response to first secondary electrons produced by the one or more first devices 11 and a second output device 15 configured to output a second signal in response to second secondary electrons produced by the one or more first devices 11.