Multi-dimensional Ion Separation via Orthogonal Apertures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ion separation devices operate in a single dimension and at atmospheric pressure, limiting the manipulation and control of ions, whereas the need arises for a device that can separate ions in multiple dimensions and operate at sub-ambient gas pressures to enhance separation efficiency and reduce instrument footprint.
Innovation Solution
An ion separation device configured with orthogonal ion entrance and exit apertures, utilizing means to urge ions in multiple directions for separation based on physicochemical properties, and capable of operating at sub-ambient gas pressures, allowing for simultaneous separation in multiple dimensions without bulk gas flow, using RF and DC voltages for ion confinement and separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional gas phase separation devices are used, then separation can be performed, but only in a single dimension at any one time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensional change by transitioning from single-dimension separation to multi-dimensional separation. The device incorporates multiple aperture arrays oriented in different spatial dimensions, allowing ions to be separated simultaneously along multiple axes. This enables comprehensive ion classification in three-dimensional space rather than being limited to a single separation direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the separation function across multiple aperture arrays positioned at different locations and orientations. Each aperture array can independently perform separation in its specific direction, and the combined effect of multiple segmented arrays achieves multi-dimensional separation capability without requiring a single complex separation mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If atmospheric pressure operation is used, then device operation is simpler, but ion manipulation and control are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational pressure parameter from atmospheric pressure to sub-ambient pressure. This parameter change enables enhanced ion manipulation and control capabilities, as lower pressure conditions allow for better ion guidance and separation efficiency. The device is specifically designed to operate optimally in this modified pressure regime, trading operational simplicity for significantly improved ion control versatility.
3Productivity
If sequential separation devices are used, then separation can be performed, but instrument footprint is larger
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separation functions into a single integrated device structure. By combining multiple aperture arrays and separation mechanisms that operate simultaneously in different dimensions, the device achieves the functionality of sequential separation devices in a compact concurrent architecture, reducing overall instrument footprint while maintaining or improving separation productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes spatial dimensionality to pack multiple separation channels and aperture arrays into a compact configuration. By arranging separation elements in three-dimensional space rather than sequential linear arrangement, the device achieves high separation capacity in a reduced footprint, allowing simultaneous multi-dimensional separation without requiring large instrument volume.
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 configuration enables faster and more selective ion separation, reducing the device's footprint and allowing for fuller manipulation of ions, enhancing the resolution and control of ion separations compared to conventional devices.
Implementation Method 1
using RF and DC voltages for ion confinement and separation
Implementation Method 2
means for urging ions in said second direction for causing ions to separate in said second direction according to a first physicochemical property
Data Source
AI summary
A sub-ambient gas pressure ion separation device is disclosed comprising: an ion entrance aperture having an axis therethrough that extends in a first direction, and an ion exit aperture; wherein the entrance aperture and exit aperture are spatially separated from each other in the first direction and in a second, orthogonal direction; and means for urging ions in said second direction as the ions travel in the first direction, said means for causing ions to separate in said second direction according to a physicochemical property such that ions having a first value, or first range of values, of the physicochemical property exit the device through the exit aperture and other ions having a different value, or different range of values, of said physicochemical property do not exit the device through the exit aperture.