Master Calibration Function for Accurate Mass Spectrometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-resolution mass spectrometers face challenges in achieving accurate mass calibrations due to random errors caused by instrument fluctuations and instabilities, leading to significant mass errors in measured ions despite careful calibration procedures.
Innovation Solution
A method involving multiple runs of reference samples to derive and average calibration constants, with subsequent updates based on deviation analysis, to establish a master calibration function that minimizes random errors and maintains accuracy over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single calibration function is used for instrument calibration, then the calibration process is simple and quick, but random errors cause significant mass errors in measured ions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple calibration functions into a single master calibration function by averaging their coefficients. This merging approach reduces random errors while maintaining calibration accuracy, as the averaged coefficients from multiple calibrations compensate for individual calibration deviations and instabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary calibrations to generate multiple calibration functions before creating the master calibration function. These preliminary calibrations are conducted in advance to establish a baseline of calibration data that can be averaged to reduce random errors in subsequent measurements.
2Measurement precision
If multiple calibration functions are averaged to reduce random errors, then mass measurement accuracy improves, but the calibration process time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial averaging by using a predetermined number of calibration functions (e.g., 3-10 calibrations) rather than averaging all possible calibrations. This partial action approach achieves sufficient error reduction without requiring excessive calibration time, balancing accuracy improvement with time constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of calibration function coefficients by averaging them across multiple calibrations. This parameter transformation converts individual calibration deviations into a more stable averaged value, reducing random errors while the predetermined number parameter controls the time investment.
3Reliability
If calibration constants are updated frequently to adapt to instrument fluctuations, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but the system complexity and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the master calibration function is continuously updated by comparing new calibration coefficients with the existing master function. The system uses deviation thresholds to determine when updates are necessary, creating a self-regulating calibration system that maintains accuracy without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic calibration system where the master calibration function can be updated based on instrument performance. The system adapts to instrument fluctuations by selectively incorporating new calibration data when deviations exceed predetermined thresholds, maintaining reliability while managing system complexity through conditional updates.
Data Source
AI summary
This patent document discloses a method for instrument calibration. In particular, the method can be applied to reduction of random errors by averaging fitting equation coefficients.