Multi-channel pulsed valve inlet for mass spectrometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mass spectrometry techniques face challenges in efficiently introducing multiple reagents for ion/molecule reactions, particularly due to unwanted reactions during collision-activated dissociation and limitations in high-throughput screening, which hinder the identification of isomeric compounds and functional groups.
Innovation Solution
A multichannel inlet system with a plurality of valve assemblies and a pulsed valve driver is developed, allowing for the simultaneous introduction of multiple reagents into a mass spectrometer, enabling precise control over reagent introduction and reaction kinetics through a processor-driven pulse signal sequence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If continuous flow introduction of neutral reagents is used, then reaction rates can be directly measured and insights on reaction mechanisms can be obtained, but unwanted ion/molecule reactions occur during CAD experiments complicating the mass spectrum
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by switching from continuous flow to pulsed introduction of neutral reagents. The pulsed valve introduces reagents in controlled bursts rather than continuous flow, which eliminates unwanted reactions during CAD experiments while still allowing reaction kinetics to be studied through controlled pulse timing and duration.
2Measurement precision
If continuous flow introduction of neutral reagents is used, then reaction mechanisms can be studied, but high-throughput screening is prevented due to limitation to one reagent at a time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the single continuous flow system into multiple pulsed valve channels. Each channel can introduce a different reagent through the same mass spectrometer sequentially, enabling high-throughput screening of multiple reagents while maintaining controlled reaction conditions for mechanism studies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing a multi-channel pulsed valve system where a single mass spectrometer can handle multiple reagents through different channels. This allows the system to perform both detailed reaction mechanism studies and high-throughput screening of multiple reagents using the same instrument.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If pulsed valve introduction of reagents is used, then unwanted reactions are avoided and high-throughput screening is enabled, but reaction kinetics cannot be readily measured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using the detected ion signals from pulsed reagent introduction to calculate reaction rate constants. The system monitors product ion formation over time following each pulse and uses this feedback information to determine kinetic parameters, thereby recovering reaction kinetics measurement capability in the pulsed mode.
4Ease of operation
If single pulsed valve is used, then reagent introduction is controlled, but multiple reagents cannot be introduced simultaneously for comprehensive screening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by combining multiple pulsed valve channels into a single mass spectrometer system. Each valve maintains independent control for precise reagent introduction, while the shared mass spectrometer enables simultaneous or sequential analysis of multiple reagents, achieving both control and versatility.
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 system enhances the ability to perform high-throughput screening and reduces unwanted ion/molecule reactions, allowing for more accurate identification of functional groups and isomeric compounds by controlling the introduction of reagents with improved precision and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
The pulsed valve driver is operably connected to a plurality of pulsed valves and is configured to generate pulsed valve drive signals for the plurality of pulsed valves based on the pulse signal sequence
Implementation Method 2
The complete process involves the conversion of the sample into gaseous ions, with or without fragmentation, which are then characterized by their mass to charge ratios (m/z)
Implementation Method 3
The selected ions are usually accelerated by applying an electrical potential to increase the ion kinetic energy and then allowed to collide with neutral atoms or molecules. In each collision, some of the kinetic energy is converted into internal energy which results in bond breakage and the fragmentation of the ion into smaller fragments
Implementation Method 4
Gas-phase ion/molecule reactions have been used extensively in the past for solving complex analytical problems. These reactions have been used to probe the structures of organic compounds and biomolecules
Data Source
AI summary
A multichannel inlet system for a mass spectrometer includes a plurality of valve assemblies coupled to a manifold, and a pulsed valve driver. The manifold is configured to be connected in fluid connection with an ion trap of the mass spectrometer. Each valve assembly includes a valve and an injection port operably coupled to receive the reagent. The valve has an actuated state in which the valve provides fluid communication between the injection port and the manifold, and an unactuated state in which the valve substantially prevents fluid communication between the injection port and the manifold. The pulsed valve driver is operably connected to receive a pulse signal sequence from a processor, and is configured to generate pulsed valve drive signals for one or more of the valves based on the pulse signal sequence to cause a corresponding one of the valves to be in the actuated state.