Mass Spectrometer Interface with Gated Multi-Source Inlet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mass spectrometry systems face challenges in analyzing multiple sample sources simultaneously without detrimental effects on the analysis of the first sample, due to electromagnetic field interactions and gas flow interactions, which can lead to signal reduction and instability.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an interface apparatus and method that allows for the introduction of multiple sample sources, with one source associated with an electromagnetic field and the second source located remotely to minimize detrimental effects, using a sampling inlet that can comprise an aperture, orifice, or capillary, and a heat source, and employing pneumatic or electrical gating to control the introduction of samples and molecules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple sample sources are introduced simultaneously to the mass spectrometer, then the productivity and versatility of the system is improved, but the electromagnetic field interactions between sources cause signal reduction and instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a gating mechanism that segments the continuous introduction of multiple samples into discrete, controlled time windows. The gate alternates between allowing the first sample and second sample to pass through to the mass spectrometer, preventing simultaneous electromagnetic field interactions while maintaining high productivity through rapid alternation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic gating where the introduction of samples from multiple sources is alternated in a periodic manner. The gate switches between sources at controlled intervals, creating a periodic action that prevents continuous electromagnetic field interference while ensuring both samples are analyzed systematically, thus maintaining signal stability without sacrificing productivity.
2Device complexity
If multiple sample sources are positioned close together for simultaneous analysis, then the device complexity is reduced, but gas flow interactions between sources cause detrimental effects on sample analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the gas flow paths from multiple sample sources by introducing a gating mechanism that controls which source's gas flow is permitted to reach the mass spectrometer at any given time. This segmentation prevents direct gas flow interactions between sources while maintaining a relatively simple interface apparatus structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The gate acts as an intermediary component between multiple sample sources and the mass spectrometer. It mediates the gas flows from different sources, allowing only one source's flow to pass through at a time, thereby preventing harmful gas flow interactions while maintaining proximity of sources to reduce device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If the gate controls sample introduction by mechanical blocking, then the control precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical blocking gates with an electromagnetic field-based gating mechanism. The gate uses electromagnetic fields to control the passage of ions from multiple sources without requiring complex mechanical moving parts, thereby maintaining precise control over sample introduction while reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls sample introduction by changing electromagnetic field parameters (such as field strength, polarity, or frequency) rather than using mechanical blocking. This allows precise control over which sample source is active at any given time while avoiding the complexity of mechanical gate components, thus improving measurement precision without significantly increasing device 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
This approach enables simultaneous analysis of multiple samples with minimal detrimental effects, allowing for indexed analysis and calibration of the mass spectrometer, improving signal stability and accuracy by maintaining field-free conditions and optimizing gas flow.
Implementation Method 1
The first source can be associated with an electromagnetic field
Implementation Method 2
The interface apparatus can further comprise at least one heat source. The at least one heat source can be located outside of the chamber, such as in the first source.
Implementation Method 3
Mass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful tool for analyzing ionized molecules
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for introducing samples through a boundary member partially defining a chamber at an entrance point coaxial to a sampling inlet of a mass spectrometer is described. Field-free conditions can be established in at least one region of the chamber. The sample can be introduced adjacent to the sampling inlet, and introducing at least a second sample can be introduced through at least one other entrance point in the chamber not adjacent to the sampling inlet. An apparatus having a sampling inlet and a boundary member partially defining a chamber is also described. Field-free conditions can be established in at least one region of the chamber, and there can be a first aperture in the boundary member through which a source emits sample. Related devices, uses and mass spectrometers are also described.