Segmented Multipole Ion Guide for Dual-Source Mass Spectrometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ion source apparatuses face challenges in maintaining axial ion transmission efficiency and constraining ions effectively while integrating multiple ion sources, with Y-shaped multipole apparatuses showing reduced axial ion transmission efficiency due to interference from lateral ion guides.
Innovation Solution
An ion source apparatus with a segmented multipole axial ion guide assembly and a lateral ion guide assembly, where the lateral ion guide's outlet is positioned between adjacent segmented multipoles, allowing for independent axial ion transmission without affecting the axial RF field, and incorporating a power supply for RF and DC voltage to facilitate ion confinement and movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a Y-shaped multipole apparatus is used to combine ion beams from separated sources, then multiple ion sources can be integrated, but the axial ion transmission efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The multipole assembly is divided into multiple segmented multipoles arranged along the axial direction, with each segment independently controllable. This segmentation allows the axial ion guide assembly to maintain its ion transmission efficiency while the lateral ion guide assembly can be integrated without interfering with the axial RF field distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The lateral ion guide assembly is positioned in a lateral direction relative to the axial ion guide assembly, utilizing a different spatial dimension. The ion outlet of the lateral ion guide assembly faces a gap between two adjacent segmented multipoles, allowing lateral ion introduction without disrupting the axial RF field and ion transmission path.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a multipole ion guide structure guides ions both axially and laterally, then multiple ion sources can be accommodated, but the axial RF field is weakened at intersection points
Solution Approach 1:
The axial ion guide assembly uses segmented multipoles that can be independently controlled. By applying RF voltage to specific segments, the system maintains strong axial RF fields in regions where axial ions are transmitted, while allowing lateral ion entry points in gaps between segments without compromising overall field strength.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the multipole assembly have different functional characteristics. The axial segments maintain strong RF fields for axial ion confinement, while the gaps between segments provide entry points for lateral ions. This local differentiation allows both axial and lateral ion guidance to coexist without mutual interference.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the lateral ion guide outlet is positioned to face the axial ion path, then ion integration is achieved, but the axial RF field is influenced and ion constraining becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The lateral ion guide assembly introduces ions from a lateral direction into gaps between axial segments, rather than intersecting the axial ion path directly. This dimensional separation allows both ion sources to be integrated while maintaining distinct transmission paths that do not interfere with each other's field constraints.
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 configuration ensures high ion transmission efficiency and effective ion constraining for both axial and lateral ion sources, enabling simultaneous operation without mechanical switching and reducing analysis time through real-time optical imaging capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a power supply, configured to apply RF voltage to at least a portion of the segmented multipoles to form RF field that confines ions radially within the ion guide
Implementation Method 2
the laser source emitting laser to the target plate to desorb sample on the sample carrier surface
Implementation Method 3
The power supply may also apply DC voltage to the segmented multipoles to form DC electric field driving ions along the axial direction through the axial ion guide assembly
Data Source
AI summary
The technical solution of the present disclosure provides an ion source apparatus and a mass spectrometer. According to the ion source apparatus, the axial ion guide assembly includes the plurality of multipole segments extending axially, the transmission path of axial ions is straight, and the ion transmission efficiency is substantially unaffected when the axial ion source is used alone. Further, since the ion outlet of the lateral ion guide assembly faces a gap between two adjacent segmented multipoles, the lateral ion guide assembly does not affect axial field, thereby integrating the multiple ion sources while ensuring the ion transmission efficiency and ion constraining of the axial ion source.