Quadrupole FAIMS Apparatus Electronic Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of High Field Asymmetric Waveform Ion Mobility Spectrometry (FAIMS) in analytical methods can be undesirable due to its impact on analysis time and ion transmission efficiency, particularly when background signals are low or when FAIMS is not compatible with the analysis time scale, leading to reduced ion transmission efficiency and the need for physical removal of hardware.
Innovation Solution
A quadrupole FAIMS apparatus with an electrical controller that can switch between FAIMS mode and rf-only mode, allowing for electronic selection of operating modes without physical changes, maintaining high ion transmission efficiency in both modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If FAIMS is used in operational mode to improve selectivity, then ion separation capability is improved, but analysis time increases and ion transmission efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between FAIMS mode and rf-only mode based on analytical requirements. The system can transition from static FAIMS operation to dynamic mode selection, adjusting the operating state in real-time to balance separation needs with analysis speed requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the quadrupole by switching between two distinct modes: FAIMS mode (with asymmetric waveforms for separation) and rf-only mode (with symmetric radio frequency waves for rapid transmission). This parameter change allows the system to optimize for either separation precision or analysis speed depending on the analytical context.
2Measurement precision
If FAIMS is used to improve selectivity, then ion separation is improved, but ion transmission efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts between FAIMS mode (which provides separation but reduces transmission) and rf-only mode (which maintains high transmission). This dynamic capability allows optimization of the trade-off between separation precision and ion transmission efficiency based on specific analytical needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The quadrupole device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a FAIMS device for separation when needed, or as an rf-only ion guide for high transmission. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware to serve both separation and transmission optimization purposes.
3Productivity
If FAIMS hardware is physically removed to reduce analysis time, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the quadrupole device universal by enabling it to perform both FAIMS separation and rf-only ion guidance functions. This eliminates the need for physical hardware removal or addition, as the same device can be reconfigured electronically for different operational modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of physically removing or adding hardware with an electronic control approach. The switching between FAIMS and rf-only modes is achieved through electronic waveform generation and control, eliminating the need for mechanical hardware changes.
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 electronic switching between FAIMS and rf-only modes, improving ion transmission efficiency and reducing the need for hardware changes, thus addressing the limitations of FAIMS in certain analytical applications.
Implementation Method 1
High Field Asymmetric Waveform Ion Mobility Spectrometry (FAIMS) is a technology that is capable of separating gas-phase ions at atmospheric pressure. In FAIMS, the ions are introduced into an analyzer region across which a radio frequency (rf) waveform, the magnitude of which is referred to as dispersion voltage (DV), is applied such that the ions are alternately subjected to high and low electric fields.
Implementation Method 2
an electrical controller that is selectably switchable between a first operating mode and a second operating mode, the electrical controller in communication with at least one of the at least four electrodes for establishing first electric field conditions within the ion transmission channel for separating ions according to the FAIMS principle when operating in the first operating mode and for establishing second electric field conditions within the ion transmission channel for transmitting ions using the principle of an rf-only ion guide device when operating in the second operating mode.
Data Source
AI summary
A combined rf-only/FAIMS apparatus is disclosed for use in mass spectrometry and other applications. The disclosed apparatus includes a plurality of curved electrodes arranged around a central ion transmission channel. FAIMS functionality is removed electronically when not desired by application of radio frequency (rf) waveforms to the curved electrodes.