Mass Spectrometer Settling Time Reduction via Measurement Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mass spectrometers face significant settling times when changing settings for new measurements, which hinders acquisition rate and dwell time, particularly in tandem mass spectrometry where multiple compounds need to be analyzed consecutively within a limited time frame.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that calculate and order parameter deltas for mass spectrometer settings to minimize total settling time, allowing for faster acquisition rates or increased dwell times by optimizing the sequence of parameter changes across multiple stages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the mass spectrometer measures multiple compounds consecutively with repeated measurements of each transition, then measurement accuracy is improved, but the total analysis time increases due to settling time between measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates and stores optimal measurement sequences that minimize settling time between consecutive measurements. By preparing the measurement schedule in advance with predetermined parameter transitions, the system reduces idle settling time while maintaining the required number of repeated measurements for accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the measurement sequence based on real-time conditions and pre-calculated optimization algorithms. The measurement protocol adapts by selecting transitions that require minimal parameter changes between consecutive measurements, thereby reducing settling time while preserving measurement repetition requirements
2Measurement precision
If the dwell time is increased to improve measurement quality, then measurement accuracy is improved, but the acquisition rate decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system optimizes dwell time by dynamically adjusting measurement parameters between scans. By carefully selecting which parameters to change and in what sequence, the system minimizes the time required for parameter transitions, allowing longer effective dwell times on target transitions without proportionally increasing total cycle time
3Reliability
If the mass spectrometer stabilizes voltages, electrical fields and magnetic fields for each new measurement, then measurement reliability is improved, but the settling time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates measurement sequences that minimize parameter changes between consecutive measurements. By planning the measurement schedule in advance to group similar transitions together, the system reduces the frequency and magnitude of parameter adjustments, thereby reducing settling time while maintaining field stability for reliable measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors field stabilization status and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust the measurement sequence. By tracking when fields have sufficiently stabilized, the system can proceed with measurements at optimal moments, reducing unnecessary waiting time while ensuring measurement reliability
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for optimizing the performance of a mass spectrometer system when multiple measurements are made. For example, the total settling time of different components or stages of a mass spectrometer, such as a tandem mass spectrometer, are decreased by optimally ordering the measurements.