MALDI Mass Spectrometer Multi-Wavelength Illumination for Matrix Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional MALDI mass spectrometers face challenges in accurately determining the sample position and matrix distribution, especially when using different types of matrices, as they often require operators to visually observe and switch between visible and ultraviolet light for optimal signal intensity, which can be inefficient and less effective.
Innovation Solution
A MALDI mass spectrometer equipped with multiple light source units emitting different wavelength regions and an illumination light switching section, allowing for simultaneous or alternating display of visible and ultraviolet light images, enabling real-time and snap images to be captured and displayed, facilitating easier sample positioning and matrix distribution assessment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ultraviolet light illumination is used to detect matrix distribution, then the observation image clearly shows matrix distribution sites, but visible light illumination may be needed for better sample adhesion checking
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates both ultraviolet and visible light illumination sources, allowing the observation image acquisition unit to select appropriate illumination wavelengths based on the specific matrix type being used. This multi-functional approach ensures effective sample position and matrix distribution detection across different matrix varieties.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the illumination parameter (wavelength) to match the specific requirements of different matrix types. By switching between ultraviolet and visible light, the system optimizes the observation conditions for each matrix type, thereby improving both detection accuracy and adaptability.
2Measurement precision
If operators manually determine laser irradiation points by visual observation, then sample position can be identified, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically acquires observation images and determines sample positions without requiring manual visual inspection by operators. The automatic operation unit utilizes the captured images to identify optimal laser irradiation points, thereby improving productivity while maintaining accurate sample position determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the manual visual observation process with an automated image acquisition and processing system. By using optical imaging and computer-based analysis, the system eliminates the time-consuming manual determination process while maintaining or improving position accuracy.
3Device complexity
If a single light source is used for illumination, then the device structure is simple, but different wavelength regions cannot be provided for different matrix types
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is designed with multiple light sources emitting at different wavelengths (ultraviolet and visible light). This multi-functional configuration allows the system to adapt to different matrix types by selecting the appropriate light source, thereby improving versatility without significantly complicating the overall device structure.
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 configuration allows for more precise and efficient determination of the sample position and matrix distribution, improving signal intensity by providing operators with real-time and snap images, regardless of the matrix type, thus enhancing the analysis process.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of light source units each of which is configured to emit a beam of light with a different wavelength region
Implementation Method 2
detects the reflected light from the top surface of the sample plate to create an observation image of the sample plate
Implementation Method 3
a sample prepared by mixing a specimen to be analyzed with an ionization-assisting agent called the matrix is irradiated with laser light for a short period of time to turn the components of the specimen in the sample into ions while vaporizing those components
Data Source
AI summary
In order to display an image which enables easy observation of the state of adhesion of a sample regardless of the kind of matrix, its distribution and other factors in a MALDI mass spectrometer configured to irradiate a sample on a sample plate (15) with laser light to ionize a component in the sample and perform a mass spectrometric analysis, the MALDI mass spectrometer includes: a plurality of light source units (30a, 30b), each configured to emit a beam of light with a different wavelength distribution; an illumination light switching section (42, 31) configured to selectively cast one of the beams of light emitted from the light source units, onto the sample plate as illumination light; and an imaging section (32) configured to acquire an optical image of the sample plate formed by the illumination light, the imaging section being common to the light source units.