Miniaturized Mass Analyzer with Integrated Ion Trap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional miniaturized mass analyzers face challenges in achieving high sensitivity and selectivity due to space charge limitations, smaller ion acceptance areas, and difficulties in maintaining electrode alignment, leading to compromised performance in field applications.
Innovation Solution
A miniaturized mass analyzer with an integrated ion trap array and quadrupole array, allowing for spatial and temporal ion accumulation, and flexible operation modes, using a cylindrical ion trap array and Faraday detectors for enhanced sensitivity and selectivity, and a modular design for easy assembly and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple analysis stages are assembled in series to enhance selectivity, then selectivity is improved, but sensitivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mass filter and ion trap into a single integrated device, merging two separate analysis stages into one unified structure. This allows the device to perform both mass filtering and ion accumulation functions simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between selectivity and sensitivity that arises when stages are assembled in series.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device serves multiple functions: it acts as both a mass filter for selective ion transmission and an ion trap for accumulating ions to enhance sensitivity. This multi-functionality within a single device structure allows simultaneous achievement of high selectivity and high sensitivity without requiring separate staged instruments.
2Measurement precision
If multiple analysis stages are assembled in series to provide 2D and 3D separation, then resolving power is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mass filter and ion trap into a single integrated device with shared electrodes and vacuum chamber, dramatically reducing the overall device volume compared to assembling separate instruments in series. The integrated structure maintains high resolving power through combined 2D and 3D separation capabilities while achieving miniaturization suitable for portable applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The ion trap is nested within the mass filter structure, with the trap electrodes positioned inside or integrated with the filter electrodes. This nested configuration allows one analysis stage to be contained within another, maximizing space utilization and minimizing overall device footprint while maintaining both separation dimensions.
3Volume of moving object
If conventional miniaturized mass analyzers are used, then device size is reduced, but sensitivity and selectivity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mass filtering and ion trapping functions in a single integrated miniaturized device, allowing both high sensitivity (through ion accumulation) and high selectivity (through mass filtering) to be achieved simultaneously in a compact form factor suitable for portable applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions including mass filtering, ion accumulation, and detection within a single miniaturized structure. This multi-functionality enables the small device to achieve performance levels previously only attainable with larger, multi-stage instruments.
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 provides superior sensitivity and selectivity, along with flexible operation modes, and eliminates the need for consumable detectors, ensuring robust, reliable, and long-lasting field operation with reduced maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
an ionizer for generating ions from a sample
Implementation Method 2
a mass filter with an accumulator section that is integrated in the mass filter
Implementation Method 3
providing a different electric or magnetic field to the accumulator section than that provided to the mass filter
Implementation Method 4
an ion trap array that is configured to hold a plurality of ions
Data Source
AI summary
A mass analyzer for scanning sample gases is disclosed. The mass analyzer comprises an ionizer for generating ions from a sample; a mass filter with an accumulator section integrated in the mass filter and accumulates filtered ions prior to ejecting from the mass filter; and an ion detector that is configured to detecting ejected ions from the mass filter. The mass filter may include a quadrupole array and the accumulator section includes an ion trap array.