Multi-Level Ion Transport Channels for Compact High-Resolution Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ion mobility spectrometry techniques face challenges in achieving extended separation channel lengths within practical instrument sizes, limiting resolution due to the dependence on the square-root of the separation channel length.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multi-level ion manipulation systems using traveling waves and elevator channels, combined with RF and DC confinement, allows for extended ion transport paths through stacked planar channels and vertical elevators, minimizing losses and enabling scalable ion separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the separation channel length is increased to improve resolution, then the resolution improves, but the instrument size becomes impractically large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single linear separation channel to a multi-level three-dimensional architecture with stacked planar channels connected by vertical elevator channels. This dimensional expansion allows the ion transport path to fold through multiple levels, achieving extended effective path length while maintaining a compact footprint. The separation channel is no longer confined to one dimension but distributes across multiple vertical levels, resolving the contradiction between path length and instrument size.
Solution Approach 2:
The separation system is divided into multiple discrete planar channels arranged at different vertical levels, with each level containing a complete or partial separation channel. These segmented channels are connected via elevator channels that transport ions between levels. This segmentation allows the total separation path to be distributed across multiple modular units, enabling extended resolution capability while keeping each individual level compact and the overall instrument size practical.
2Measurement precision
If the separation channel length is extended to improve resolution, then the resolution improves, but the signal attenuation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic alternating current (AC) voltage waveforms applied to the electrode structures to generate traveling wave potentials that continuously propel ions through the separation and elevator channels. This periodic electrical action maintains ion mobility and prevents ion loss along the extended multi-level path, counteracting signal attenuation that would otherwise occur over the extended separation distance required for high resolution.
3Measurement precision
If multiple levels are stacked to extend ion transport path, then the resolution improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-level system is segmented into modular planar channel units that can be stacked vertically, with each level containing essential separation functionality. This modular segmentation allows the complex multi-level system to be constructed from repeating standardized units, making the increased complexity manageable through modular design rather than a monolithic complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode structures and channel designs are made universal across multiple levels, with each planar channel level serving both as a separation channel and potentially as an elevator channel for inter-level transport. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components at each level, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity despite the multi-level architecture.
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 significantly enhances ion separation resolution and scalability by maintaining high efficiency and minimizing signal attenuation, allowing for continuous ion transport across multiple levels without race conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The apparatus for ion manipulation includes a surface to which are coupled a first plurality of continuous electrodes and a second plurality of segmented electrodes. An AC voltage waveform applied to adjacent electrodes within a longitudinal set of the second plurality of segmented electrodes is phase shifted on the adjacent electrodes by 1°-359° to move ions longitudinally through the apparatus for separation.
Implementation Method 2
An RF voltage applied to adjacent electrodes of the first plurality of electrodes is phase shifted by approximately 180° to confine ions within the apparatus.
Implementation Method 3
a first electrode coupled to each of the first and second surface and configured to receive a first voltage and generate a first potential, and at least one second electrode coupled to each of the first and second surface and configured to receive a second voltage and generate a second potential. The first potential inhibits the motion of ions along a first direction and the second potential inhibits the motion of ions along a second direction different from the first direction.
Data Source
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Figure 3~5
AI summary
An apparatus includes multiple levels of ion transport channels, with successive levels coupled by elevator channels. Efficient three dimensional packing provides long path lengths in practical volumes for ion mobility separation with high resolving power. Disclosed elevator configurations provide efficient routing of ion transport channels across levels with low ion loss, enabling ion mobility separation over 100 levels or more. Elevator configurations include (i) opposed traveling waves meeting at an elevator entrance, (ii) external elevator with a wrap-around electrode bank, (iii) external elevator with electrode banks on parallel extension plates, or (iv) elevator operating in surfing mode, in various combinations. Manufacture is aided by printed wiring boards, with interchangeable boards. Assembly with motherboard, spacer block(s), and alignment pins provides efficient distribution of electrode excitations and accurate reproducible positioning.