Multi-Well Ion Source Substrate for Mass Spectrometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ion sources for mass spectrometers face inefficiencies in analyte ionization, contamination, and optimization challenges, particularly when multiple sources operate simultaneously, leading to reduced sensitivity and increased complexity in molecular and atomic analysis.
Innovation Solution
A substrate with multiple wells configured to receive and contain analytes without mixing, coupled with a channel for guiding ions to a mass analyzer, and a gas source system to transport analytes efficiently, reducing the need for manual adjustments and enhancing throughput.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple ion sources operate simultaneously, then sample throughput increases, but sensitivity and ionization efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the ion source into multiple independent wells (e.g., 96 wells), each capable of containing and ionizing analyte separately. This segmentation allows simultaneous operation of multiple sources while maintaining individual control, thereby increasing throughput without sacrificing sensitivity for any single analyte.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single linear ion source to a two-dimensional array of wells arranged in a plate format. This dimensional change enables parallel processing of multiple samples while maintaining optimal ionization conditions in each well, resolving the contradiction between throughput and sensitivity.
2Productivity
If multiple ion sources operate simultaneously, then sample throughput increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple ion sources into a single integrated plate structure where all wells are housed together. This merging approach allows simultaneous operation of multiple sources while managing complexity through unified design, including shared support structures and coordinated gas delivery systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The well plate design provides universal functionality where each well can independently contain and ionize different analytes using the same structural framework. This multi-functionality approach increases throughput while avoiding proportional increases in complexity, as the same basic well structure serves multiple purposes.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If analytes are contained in separate wells, then contamination is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the analyte containment space into separate wells that are physically isolated from each other. This segmentation prevents cross-contamination between different analytes while maintaining a relatively simple overall plate structure, as each well is a basic containment element.
Solution Approach 2:
The plate structure serves as an intermediary framework that provides separate containment spaces for multiple analytes. This intermediary structure reduces contamination by physically separating samples while avoiding the need for complex individual containment systems for each analyte.
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 improves analyte ionization efficiency, reduces contamination, and increases sample throughput by allowing independent control and positioning of analyte sources, simplifying the analysis process and enhancing the quality of measurements.
Implementation Method 1
a second gas source configured to provide a transport gas to the channel for transporting analyte to an entrance of the mass analyzer
Implementation Method 2
each of the well exits comprises an electrospray tip. In some examples, a potential between about 0-6 kV is applied to each electrospray tip
Data Source
AI summary
A device for providing analyte to an analyzer is described. In some examples, the device comprises a substrate comprising a plurality of wells formed therein at predetermined locations. Each of the wells can be capable of containing an analyte without mixing with analytes in other of the wells. Each of the wells can also have a well exit to allow analyte to exit therefrom. A channel can be in flow communication with at least one of the well exits, and can guide analyte ions exiting therefrom to the mass analyzer. The wells may be filled prior to use in association with the mass analyzer. The substrate may be used as part of a fraction collector if desired.