Leak-Detection Mass Spectrometer With Dual-Sensitivity Field Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mass spectrometers used for leak detection in industrial environments face challenges due to environmental disruptions such as temperature variations, shock, vibration, and the need for versatility in operating with different tracer gases, as described in existing patents like WO 2005/098900, US 10948456, and US 4,472,631.
Innovation Solution
A mass spectrometer with adjustable magnetic field sources, allowing for at least two distinct sensitivity settings, utilizing a combinational circuit to combine adjustment commands and control current, enabling precise adjustment of the magnetic field for various tracer gases, including presetting and fine adjustments, and incorporating multiple adjustment controls and magnetic field sources for enhanced versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mass spectrometer uses a single magnetic field setting, then the device structure remains simple, but it cannot adapt to different tracer gases and leak levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic magnetic field adjustment system with multiple independent adjustment controls that allow the magnetic field strength to be varied according to different tracer gases and leak detection requirements. This transforms a static magnetic field system into a dynamic one, enabling adaptability without requiring multiple fixed magnetic field sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the magnetic field parameter (strength/intensity) to optimize detection for different tracer gases. By providing multiple adjustment controls, the system can modify the magnetic field parameter to match the specific mass-to-charge ratio requirements of various gases, thereby achieving versatility through parameter variation rather than structural complexity.
2Measurement precision
If the magnetic field is highly sensitive to detect small leaks, then measurement precision improves, but the device becomes more sensitive to environmental disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic magnetic field adjustment system with multiple independent adjustment controls that allow the magnetic field strength to be varied according to different tracer gases and leak detection requirements. This transforms a static magnetic field system into a dynamic one, enabling adaptability without requiring multiple fixed magnetic field sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the magnetic field parameter (strength/intensity) to optimize detection for different tracer gases. By providing multiple adjustment controls, the system can modify the magnetic field parameter to match the specific mass-to-charge ratio requirements of various gases, thereby achieving versatility through parameter variation rather than structural complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adjustment controls are added to the mass spectrometer, then versatility with different tracer gases improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic magnetic field adjustment system with multiple independent adjustment controls that allow the magnetic field strength to be varied according to different tracer gases and leak detection requirements. This transforms a static magnetic field system into a dynamic one, enabling adaptability without requiring multiple fixed magnetic field sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the magnetic field parameter (strength/intensity) to optimize detection for different tracer gases. By providing multiple adjustment controls, the system can modify the magnetic field parameter to match the specific mass-to-charge ratio requirements of various gases, thereby achieving versatility through parameter variation rather than structural complexity.
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 enhances the mass spectrometer's ability to detect leaks effectively across different environmental conditions and tracer gases, improving measurement precision and adaptability, thereby addressing the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
at least one magnetic field source generating a magnetic field B dependent on the electric current I supplying said source intended for sorting ionized elements
Implementation Method 2
an ionization means for ionizing said tracer gas; at least one magnetic field source generating a magnetic field B dependent on the electric current I supplying said source intended for sorting ionized elements
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a mass spectrometer (10) for detecting leakages via a tracer gas, said spectrometer (10) comprising: - an ionising means (3) intended to ionise said tracer gas; - at least one magnetic-field source (501) that generates a magnetic field (I) that is dependent on the electric current I supplied to said source (501) and that is intended to sort ionised elements; - a means (7) for detecting said tracer gas once ionised; characterized in that said spectrometer comprises a means (II) for adjusting the magnetic field, said adjusting means being configured to allow at least two separate adjustments, said adjustments having different sensitivities.