Ion Source Alignment Indicator Device for Mass Spectrometers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ion analysis instruments, such as mass and ion mobility spectrometers, face challenges in maintaining accurate alignment of the ion source, sample, and sampling orifice, leading to inefficiencies and errors during experimental setups, especially when components are changed or adjusted, resulting in time-consuming re-optimization processes and potential sample loss or contamination.
Innovation Solution
An indicator device utilizing electromagnetic radiation, including visible and non-visible sources like lasers and image projection devices, provides real-time alignment guidance to ensure precise positioning of the ion source, sample, and sampling orifice, allowing for rapid and accurate re-alignment without manual labor and minimizing errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual alignment methods are used to position the ion source, sample, and sampling orifice, then the instrument can be assembled, but the alignment process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment with an optical indicator system. Electromagnetic radiation sources (lasers, LEDs) project visual indicators that guide the positioning of components, substituting the mechanical trial-and-error alignment process with an optical guidance system that enables rapid and precise alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces visual indicators (light projections, illuminated marks) as an intermediary between the alignment components. These indicators serve as a mediator that provides real-time feedback on component positioning, allowing operators to achieve correct alignment without extensive manual adjustment and re-optimization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If components are changed or adjusted during experimentation, then experimental flexibility is improved, but alignment misalignment occurs requiring re-optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes visual alignment indicators beforehand that remain valid across different component configurations. By pre-configuring the optical indicator system to show correct positioning marks, the system maintains alignment precision whenever components are changed, eliminating the need for re-optimization after component interchange.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal alignment indicator system that works across multiple component types and configurations. The electromagnetic radiation sources project indicators that can guide alignment for different ion sources, samples, and sampling orifices, making the alignment process universally applicable regardless of which specific components are being used.
3Measurement precision
If extensive manual adjustment is performed to achieve alignment, then positioning accuracy can be achieved, but sample loss or contamination occurs during the prolonged process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces prolonged manual mechanical adjustment with immediate optical guidance. The electromagnetic radiation indicators provide instant visual feedback on component positioning, allowing operators to achieve precise alignment in minimal time, thereby reducing the window during which sample loss or contamination can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables rapid passage through the alignment process by providing clear visual indicators from the start. Instead of undergoing lengthy manual adjustment sequences, operators can quickly position components correctly by following the optical indicators, rushing through the alignment step before sample degradation or contamination becomes significant.
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 solution significantly reduces the time and effort required for re-aligning components, enhances alignment confidence, and minimizes sample loss, while ensuring accurate data acquisition by providing a visual or automatic alignment aid for ion analysis instruments, particularly in ambient ionization techniques.
Implementation Method 1
an indicator device comprising one or more sources of electromagnetic radiation for providing an indication of a relative positioning of the ion source and/or the sample and/or the sampling orifice or capillary
Data Source
AI summary
An ion analysis instrument is disclosed comprising an indicator device for providing an indication of a relative positioning of an ion source, a sample, and/or a sampling orifice or capillary of an ion analysis instrument such as a mass or ion mobility spectrometer in order to facilitate re-alignment of one or more of these components following a change. The indicator device comprises a source of electromagnetic radiation such as a pair of lasers or image projection devices.