Molecular Ion Accelerator Using Pulsed-Voltage Subsystem
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current analytical methods face challenges in detecting non-monoatomic analytes, particularly those present in low concentrations or with variable mass distributions, due to limitations in detection sensitivity, which hinders applications in mass spectrometry, genomics, proteomics, and biomedical research.
Innovation Solution
A system and method involving a pulsed-voltage acceleration subsystem to accelerate non-monoatomic analytes in the gas phase, using a series of high-voltage pulses to enhance detection efficiency, comprising an ion source, pulsed-voltage acceleration electrodes, and an ion detector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional analytical methods are used, then the detection sensitivity is limited, but the detection efficiency of low concentration analytes is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by accelerating analytes to high kinetic energies (e.g., 100 keV or higher) before detection. This fundamental change in the kinetic energy parameter of the analytes enables significantly improved detection sensitivity and efficiency, allowing detection of low concentration species that would otherwise be undetectable with conventional methods.
2Measurement precision
If multiple species are present in unequal proportions, then the detection sensitivity requirement increases, but the ability to detect low concentration species decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by accelerating all analytes to high kinetic energies before they enter the detector. This pre-acceleration step ensures that even low concentration species present in mixtures with unequal proportions receive sufficient energy for detection, eliminating the disadvantage where low concentration species are missed due to insufficient signal strength.
3Measurement precision
If a sample contains a distribution of molecules or particles of variable mass, then the analysis complexity increases, but the precision of mass distribution determination decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses parameter changes by subjecting analytes with variable mass distributions to high-voltage acceleration, which imparts high kinetic energy to all species. Combined with time-of-flight measurement, this approach enables precise determination of mass distributions even for complex samples containing multiple species with different masses, as the high initial energy provides a strong basis for accurate mass-to-charge ratio measurements.
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 method significantly improves the detection efficiency of analytes by increasing their kinetic energy, allowing for more sensitive analysis of molecules and particles, even at low concentrations, thereby enhancing the capabilities in mass spectrometry and biomedical research.
Implementation Method 1
subjecting the analyte to a series of high-voltage pulses
Implementation Method 2
accelerate the analyte to high kinetic energy
Implementation Method 3
an ion detector; wherein the apparatus is configured to accelerate the analyte
Data Source
AI summary
A novel system and methods for accelerating analytes including, without limitation, molecular ions, biomolecules, polymers, nano- and microparticles, is provided. The invention can be useful for increasing detection sensitivity in applications such as mass spectrometry, performing collision-induced dissociation molecular structure analysis, and probing surfaces and samples using accelerated analyte.