Ion Trap Mass Spectrometer With Integrated RF Plasma Ionization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mass spectrometers with plasma ionization devices require additional components and a separate power supply, which can lead to interference in spectra and a complex, bulky design.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing the voltage signal from the signal generator for ionization within the ion trap, eliminating the need for an additional power source and simplifying the design by integrating the ionization process directly into the mass spectrometer's electrodes, allowing for the generation of ions or plasma without external electrodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate power supply is used for the plasma ionization device, then the ionization process can be maintained, but the device complexity and installation space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power supply function for plasma generation directly into the signal generator that controls the ion trap. The signal generator simultaneously provides both the trapping signal for ions and the power for plasma ionization, eliminating the need for separate power supply components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliable ionization
Solution Approach 2:
The signal generator is designed to perform multiple functions: it generates the radiofrequency signal for ion trapping and simultaneously provides the electrical power needed for plasma ionization. This multi-functional approach reduces the number of components needed in the mass spectrometer system
2Reliability
If additional components like differentially pumped ion transfer stages and skimmers are added, then ion transmission and pressure control are improved, but the device complexity and installation space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ionization process is integrated directly within the ion trap chamber, eliminating the need for separate ion transfer stages and skimmers. The plasma ionization device and ion trap are combined in the same spatial region, allowing ions to be generated and trapped in one location without requiring complex intermediate transfer mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a linear arrangement with separate ionization and trapping regions to a integrated three-dimensional configuration where plasma ionization occurs directly within the ion trap chamber, reducing the need for spatial separation and associated components
3Volume of moving object
If the detector is operated in a higher pressure range, then the installation space is reduced, but the sensitivity and detection capability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into distinct pressure zones: the plasma ionization region operates at higher pressure while the detection region maintains lower pressure. This segmentation allows the detector to operate optimally at low pressure for high sensitivity while the ionization can occur at higher pressure, with a pressure gradient or barrier separating the two regions
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 reduces interference, simplifies the control of the mass spectrometer, and enables a more compact design by using the existing voltage signal for ionization, thereby improving sensitivity and reducing the complexity of the ionization process.
Implementation Method 1
an ionization device, in particular a plasma ionization device, for ionizing a gas to be ionized and supplied to the interior
Implementation Method 2
ionizing a gas to be ionized and supplied to the interior
Data Source
AI summary
A mass spectrometer includes an ion trap, which has an interior for storing ions, a signal generator, which is connected to an electrode of the ion trap, which delimits the interior, for coupling in a voltage signal, in particular a radiofrequency voltage signal, and an ionization device for ionizing a gas to be ionized and supplied to the interior. The ionization device is connected to the signal generator in order to use the voltage signal (URF, UStim1, Ustim2) of the signal generator, which is coupled into the electrode, for generating ions.