Oblique DC Electrode Ion Guide for Folded Ion Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ion guides are limited in their ability to provide complex ion motion, such as switching ion paths or generating extended, folded pathways for high-resolution ion mobility analysis, requiring complex designs and systems.
Innovation Solution
An ion guide design incorporating a DC electrode with an oblique surface to a first and second axis, allowing ions to be directed along a complex path by applying a DC potential, enabling folded, switchable, or branched pathways without a complex system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex designs are used to enable complex ion motion and folded pathways, then ion manipulation capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional zones: a linear transport region using traditional multipole electrodes, and a deflection region using oblique DC electrodes. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function efficiently, enabling complex ion paths without requiring the entire device to be complex.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a geometric dimensionality change by using DC electrodes with surfaces oblique to both the ion transport direction and the deflection direction. This oblique geometry creates a three-dimensional electric field configuration that guides ions along folded pathways, adding spatial complexity without increasing device structural complexity.
2Device complexity
If traditional linear ion guides are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but ion path length is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By introducing oblique DC electrodes that create electric field components in multiple dimensions, the patent extends the ion path length without proportionally increasing the device's physical footprint. The ions traverse a folded path that effectively lengthens the flight path while maintaining a compact device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflection region with oblique DC electrodes is nested within or adjacent to the linear transport region. This nested arrangement allows the ion beam to follow a folded trajectory that fits within a compact device envelope, effectively nesting a longer path within a smaller physical space.
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
The ion guide achieves complex ion paths with mechanical and electronic simplicity, allowing for efficient ion manipulation and separation from neutral contaminants, while being cost-effective to construct.
Implementation Method 1
a first direct current (DC) electrode configured to receive a DC potential and thereby provide a force on the admitted ions having a component in a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis
Implementation Method 2
a confinement device comprising an array of radio frequency (RF) electrodes formed along a first surface and configured to provide an RF field for confinement of the admitted ions
Data Source
AI summary
An ion guide comprises an entrance for admission of ions into the ion guide, wherein the admitted ions are directed along a first axis. The ion guide also comprises a confinement device comprising an array of radio frequency (RF) electrodes formed along a first surface and configured to provide an RF field for confinement of the admitted ions. The ion guide also comprises a first direct current (DC) electrode configured to receive a DC potential and thereby provide a force on the admitted ions having a component in a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis. The first DC electrode has a surface that is oblique to the first and second axes.