Segmented Focal Plane Detector for Parallel Ion Mass Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current SIMS instruments are limited by the number of detectors that can be installed, preventing the acquisition of a full parallel mass spectrum snapshot without multiple analyses, and suffer from destructive analysis nature leading to varying depth spectral data.
Innovation Solution
A detection device comprising multiple microchannel plate assemblies arranged side-by-side with a gap of at most 1 mm, each with a dedicated read-out anode, allowing for a full-length focal plane detector that can collect all ion masses in parallel along a focal plane, enabling 100% duty cycle and high spatial resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple detectors are installed on the focal plane, then the ability to acquire full parallel mass spectrum snapshot is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The focal plane detector is segmented into multiple independent microchannel plate assemblies arranged side-by-side, each capable of detecting a specific mass range. This segmentation allows parallel detection of different ion masses simultaneously while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a traditional single-plane detector arrangement to a multi-plane stacked configuration where detector assemblies are arranged in multiple layers along the optical path. This dimensional change enables more detectors to be accommodated without increasing the lateral footprint, thus improving parallel detection capability while controlling device complexity.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the primary ion beam energy is increased to improve analysis depth, then the fundamental lateral information limit increases, but the imaging resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic control of the primary ion beam parameters, allowing adjustment of beam energy and focal plane position during analysis. This enables optimization of the trade-off between analysis depth and imaging resolution by adapting beam conditions to the specific analytical requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in beam energy parameters and detector positioning to control the depth of analysis. By adjusting these parameters, the system can achieve sufficient analysis depth while maintaining acceptable imaging resolution through optimized parameter selection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a magnetic field scan is used to detect different ion masses, then the mass range is improved, but the analysis time increases and duty cycle decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple detector assemblies, each optimized for detecting specific mass ranges. This allows simultaneous detection of different ion masses without requiring sequential scanning, thereby reducing analysis time and increasing duty cycle while maintaining broad mass range coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous detection of multiple ion masses through the multi-assembly detector configuration, eliminating the interruptions inherent in magnetic field scanning. This continuous parallel detection maintains broad mass range adaptability while significantly reducing analysis time.
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 the collection of complete chemical information with high sensitivity and spatial resolution, overcoming the limitations of existing SIMS instruments by allowing parallel detection of all ion masses, improving data processing and analysis efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
each MCP assembly is configured for receiving charged particles, neutral particles or radiation that impinge on its entry face and for generating a corresponding amplified detection signal on its opposite exit face
Implementation Method 2
at least one read-out anode for collecting said amplified detection signals, the anode being arranged at a distance to, and in parallel with, the respective exit faces of said MCP assemblies
Implementation Method 3
biasing means configured to apply a common electric potential to the respective exit faces of all MCP assemblies, and to apply individual electric potentials to the respective entry faces of each MCP assembly
Implementation Method 4
a mass spectrometer for dispersing ions along a focal plane in accordance with their mass/charge ratio
Data Source
Figure 1~3b
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention proposes a detection device for detecting charges particles. The active area of the detector extends along a principal direction over several centimetres and up to 1 meter or more. This allows for its use as a focal plane detector for a mass spectrometer device, allowing to record all mass-to-charge ratios provided by the spectrometer in parallel and within a reduced acquisition time.