Multi-Reflection Ion Trap Multiple Ion Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ion trap technologies face limitations in high-resolution mass spectrometry, as they can only select and analyze one ion species at a time due to the inability to efficiently separate ions of different mass-to-charge ratios, leading to prolonged analysis times and limited dynamic range in detection systems.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a multi-reflection or closed orbit ion trap assembly with an ion gate that switches between gating states based on the distinct oscillation periods of different ion species, allowing for selective separation and analysis of multiple ion species by directing them along different paths within the trap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single frequency sinusoidal excitation field is applied to select ions of a specific mass to charge ratio, then ion selection is achieved, but mass resolution is limited because ions with a range of mass to charge ratios are excited simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the ion selection process by applying excitation at multiple discrete frequencies rather than a single frequency. Each frequency targets a specific mass-to-charge ratio range, allowing sequential selection of different ion species. This segmentation enables high mass resolution by isolating specific m/z ranges while maintaining productivity through automated multi-frequency scanning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action by systematically cycling through multiple excitation frequencies in a predetermined sequence. Each frequency application is periodic in nature, and the overall process repeats the selection cycle for different m/z ranges. This periodic multi-frequency approach allows complete mass spectral analysis while maintaining high resolution for each selected ion species.
2Measurement precision
If ions are analyzed one species at a time through sequential selection, then high mass resolution is achieved, but analysis time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves continuity of useful action by implementing automated sequential multi-frequency excitation that continuously cycles through different ion species without interruption. The system maintains ion confinement while systematically applying different excitation frequencies, ensuring that the ion beam utilization is continuous and productive throughout the analysis, thereby reducing total analysis time while preserving high resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
By implementing periodic cycling through multiple excitation frequencies, the system analyzes multiple ion species in rapid succession. Each frequency cycle is optimized for speed while maintaining resolution, and the periodic repetition of these cycles across the full mass range enables comprehensive analysis in reduced time compared to traditional single-frequency methods.
3Productivity
If the ion gate switches between gating states to separate multiple ion species, then simultaneous analysis of multiple species is enabled, but the complexity of the trapping system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic control of the ion gate, switching it between different gating states in synchronization with the multi-frequency excitation sequence. This dynamic gating allows selective transmission of different ion species at different times, enabling simultaneous analysis of multiple species. The dynamic nature of the gating control, rather than static configuration, achieves high throughput while managing complexity through programmable timing sequences.
4Loss of time
If multiple ion species are selected and ejected simultaneously, then analysis time is reduced, but detection dynamic range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the ejection and detection process by assigning different temporal windows to different ion species. Ions are ejected in sequential groups corresponding to their selected mass ranges, with each group detected during its designated time window. This segmentation preserves detection dynamic range by preventing signal overlap while maintaining reduced analysis time through parallel processing of multiple species across different time segments.
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
Enables the simultaneous analysis of multiple ion species with high resolution, reducing analysis time and increasing the dynamic range of detection, allowing for more efficient and flexible ion ejection and processing.
Implementation Method 1
ions undergo substantially isochronous oscillations or orbits along a path within an ion trap under the influence of a set of electrodes
Implementation Method 2
each of which undergoes substantially isochronous oscillations or orbits along a path within the ion trap, the oscillations or orbits having a period characteristic of the respective mass to charge ratio
Implementation Method 3
switching an ion gate located in or adjacent the ion trap between a first gating state in which ions of the identified species passing along the path within the ion trap are directed along a first ion path
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to a method of operating a charged particle trap in which ions undergo multiple reflections back and forth and/or follow a closed orbit around, usually, a set of electrodes. The invention allows high-performance isolation of multiple ion species for subsequent detection or fragmentation by deflecting ions out of the ion trap according to a timing scheme calculated with reference to the ions' periods of oscillation within the ion trap.