Ion Optic Assembly Rod Alignment via Insulator Notches
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for assembling ion optic assemblies, such as those used in mass spectrometry systems, are time-consuming and require skilled operators, involving complex processes like soldering, conductive epoxy application, and laser welding, which are costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves an ion optic assembly design where electrically conductive rods are inserted through insulators with specifically designed through-holes and notches, allowing for a simplified assembly process that eliminates the need for traditional fastening methods, using a combination of slip-fit and press-fit sections and spring-biased fingers for electrical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fastening processes (soldering, conductive epoxy, laser welding) are used to assemble ion optic assemblies, then reliable electrical connectivity and mechanical strength are achieved, but assembly time increases and skilled operators are required
Solution Approach 1:
The rod assembly structure enables self-alignment and self-securing through the interaction between rod ends and notches. The rods automatically position themselves correctly when inserted through the insulator, eliminating the need for external fastening operations or skilled operators to perform soldering, epoxy application, or welding.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical fastening systems (soldering, epoxy, welding) with a simpler mechanical insertion system. The rods are simply inserted through the insulator and secured by the notch geometry, substituting multi-step thermal and chemical processes with a single mechanical action.
2Reliability
If traditional fastening processes (soldering, conductive epoxy, laser welding) are used to assemble ion optic assemblies, then reliable electrical connectivity is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex fastening processes (soldering, epoxy application, welding equipment, curing ovens) from the assembly system. Only the essential components (insulator with notches and rods) remain, dramatically simplifying the overall device and assembly process while maintaining electrical connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulator structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical insulation between rods, mechanically secures the rods through the notch geometry, guides rod insertion through aligned holes, and maintains precise spatial relationships between rods. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate fastening, insulation, and alignment components.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise mechanical positioning and traditional fastening methods are used, then manufacturing precision is achieved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The insulator is pre-designed with precisely positioned holes and notches that define the exact locations where rods must be inserted. This preliminary preparation of the insulator geometry ensures that when rods are inserted, they automatically achieve the required precise alignment without requiring additional positioning operations or skilled operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod-and-notch mechanism enables self-alignment during assembly. As rods are inserted through the insulator holes, the notch geometry automatically guides and secures them in the correct positions, eliminating the need for external alignment tools, fixtures, or skilled operators to manually position each rod.
Data Source
AI summary
An ion optic assembly includes a set of conductive rods, a first insulator, and a second insulator. The rods are inserted into through-holes of the first insulator, which are arranged about an axis along which the rods are elongated. The rods are then inserted through a bore of the second insulator and become located in notches of the bore, which are arranged about the axis. Accordingly, the first insulator positions one end of the rods at a first distance from the axis, and the second insulator positions the other end of the rods at a second distance from the axis, which may equal to or different from the first distance. The rods contact, and may be spring-biased against, the notches. The assembly may include an electrical contact with fingers spring-biased into contact with the rods. Each insulator may include both through-holes and notches for additional rods.