PTR-MS Ion Source Layout for Fast Reagent Ion Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PTR-MS instruments face challenges in rapid reagent ion switching and alignment of the ion source and sample inlet with the reaction chamber's central axis, leading to inefficiencies in sensitivity and sample interaction with inlet walls.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with multiple ion sources arranged perpendicularly to the central axis, utilizing electrodes to deflect or reject reagent ions, allowing for rapid switching and direct sample gas inlet along the central axis without wall contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the ion source is positioned in-line with the reaction chamber central axis, then the sample inlet alignment is improved, but the reagent ion switching speed deteriorates due to physical constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions ion sources perpendicular to the reaction chamber central axis (in the y-direction) rather than in-line (x-direction). This dimensional change allows multiple ion sources to be arranged side-by-side without physical interference, enabling rapid electronic switching between sources while maintaining optimal sample inlet alignment along the central axis.
2Speed
If multiple ion sources are positioned perpendicular to the central axis, then the reagent ion switching speed is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ion source system into multiple independent modular units positioned perpendicular to the central axis. Each ion source can be independently controlled and switched via electronic signals, allowing rapid reagent ion changes. The segmented arrangement simplifies the switching mechanism compared to in-line configurations while maintaining system manageability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic electronic switching between multiple perpendicular ion sources using controllable electrodes and voltage signals. This dynamic control allows rapid transition between different reagent ions without mechanical movement, achieving fast switching speeds while keeping the physical structure relatively simple and fixed.
3Ease of operation
If the sample inlet is positioned at the beginning of the drift tube perpendicular to the axis, then the sample injection is simplified, but the sample-wall interactions increase leading to reduced sensitivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the sample inlet along the central axis (x-direction) rather than perpendicular at the drift tube beginning. This dimensional repositioning allows the sample to flow directly through the reaction chamber center, minimizing contact with chamber walls and reducing wall-induced losses, thereby improving detection sensitivity while maintaining ease of injection.
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 rapid reagent ion switching and improved sensitivity with reduced sample-wall interactions, enhancing instrument speed and selectivity.
Implementation Method 1
at least one electrode, such that the reagent ions emitted from the first or second ion source into the ion source section can be deflected into the reaction chamber essentially in the downstream direction of the central axis
Implementation Method 2
an ion source section (208) comprising at least two ion sources (209), wherein the ion sources are arranged essentially perpendicular to the central axis of the reaction chamber
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for IMR-MS and/or PTR-MS, comprising a sample gas inlet (202, 206), a first ion source (209), a reaction chamber (203), a mass analyzer (204), wherein the reaction chamber (203) and the mass analyzer (204) are arranged along a central axis (A), characterized by a second ion source (209), wherein the sample gas inlet (202, 206) is arranged to introduce gas essentially along the central axis (A) and is connected to the reaction chamber (203); wherein the first ion source (209) and the second ion source (209) are arranged so as to emit reagent ions essentially perpendicularly to the central axis (A); said apparatus further comprising at least one electrode (302, 303, 304, 305), such that the reagent ions emitted from the first or second ion source (209) can be deflected into the reaction chamber (203) essentially in the downstream direction of the central axis (A).