Ion Detector Dynode Segmentation for Dynamic Range Extension

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ion detectors face challenges in extending their dynamic range to measure both high and low ion concentrations without saturating or overloading, which limits their accuracy and lifespan.

Innovation Solution

The use of a detector configuration that measures signals from multiple dynodes, including cross-calibration of non-saturated analog signals with pulse count signals, allows for the termination of signal amplification at saturated dynodes, preventing damage and maintaining accuracy across a wide concentration range.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If signal amplification is increased to detect low ion concentrations, then detection sensitivity is improved, but dynode saturation occurs leading to measurement inaccuracy

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection sensitivityVSAvoidmeasurement inaccuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The detector divides the dynode chain into multiple segments, each monitored by separate electrometers. This allows independent measurement of signal levels at different stages, enabling the system to identify saturation points and select appropriate measurement segments for accurate quantification across wide concentration ranges.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes measurement parameters by selecting different dynode stages for analog signal measurement based on signal intensity. For low concentrations, later dynode stages provide sufficient amplification, while for high concentrations, earlier stages are used to avoid saturation, maintaining measurement accuracy across all ranges.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If detector gain is increased to measure low ion concentrations, then dynamic range is extended, but detector overload occurs at high concentrations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedynamic rangeVSAvoiddetector overload

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs feedback mechanisms where electrometers continuously monitor signal levels at multiple dynode stages. Based on this feedback, the system automatically determines the appropriate measurement mode (analog or pulse counting) and selects the optimal dynode stage, preventing overload while maximizing dynamic range utilization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The detector operates dynamically by switching between different measurement modes and dynode stages based on real-time signal conditions. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to handle both low and high ion concentrations effectively, extending the usable dynamic range without causing detector overload.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If analog signal measurement is used for high ion concentrations, then measurement speed is improved, but saturation occurs reducing accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement speedVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies partial action by using analog signal measurement only for dynode stages that are not saturated. When saturation is detected at certain stages, the system switches to pulse counting mode or selects alternative stages, ensuring accurate measurement while maintaining high throughput for non-saturated signals.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple dynodes are monitored to extend dynamic range, then measurement versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedynamic rangeVSAvoiddetector structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The electrometers serve multiple functions: they monitor signal levels for saturation detection, provide analog signal measurement, and enable pulse counting operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each measurement mode, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving extended dynamic range.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 dynamic range of ion detection, enabling simultaneous measurement of low and high ion concentrations with improved accuracy and extended detector lifespan by preventing saturation and maintaining constant gain.

Implementation Method 1

Ions signals are often amplified using an electron multiplier to permit their detection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSecondary electron emission: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS10290478B2Detectors and methods of using them

Publication Date: 2019.05.14 PERKINELMER U S LLC

AI summary

Certain embodiments described herein are directed to detectors and systems using them. In some examples, the detector can include a plurality of dynodes, in which one or more of the dynodes are coupled to an electrometer. In some instances, an analog signal from a non-saturated dynode is measured and cross-calibrated with a pulse count signal to extend the dynamic range of the detector.