Segmented Ion Trap for Simultaneous Mass Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ion traps face limitations in speed and mass resolution during analytical scans, as well as the inability to simultaneously analyze positive and negative ions with different polarities, due to the sequential ejection of ions and shared exit routes for ions with similar mass-to-charge ratios.
Innovation Solution
An ion trap design featuring multiple electrodes with discrete exit paths and adjustable angles for ions of different mass-to-charge ratios and polarities, allowing simultaneous ejection via separate routes, and the use of dipolar, quadrupolar, or parametric excitation to achieve mass selective ejection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sequential ejection of ions is used, then mass resolution is maintained, but analysis speed deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ion trap is divided into multiple ejection regions with separate exit paths, allowing different ion populations to be ejected simultaneously through different segments. This segmentation enables parallel processing of multiple ion species, improving analysis speed while maintaining mass resolution for each ion type.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a spatial dimension to the ejection process by creating separate exit paths at different angles and locations. Instead of sequential ejection through a single path, ions are ejected simultaneously through multiple spatially separated paths, transforming a one-dimensional sequential process into a multi-dimensional parallel process.
2Device complexity
If single exit route is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ability to distinguish ion polarities deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The exit path is segmented into multiple discrete routes, each optimized for specific ion polarities or mass-to-charge ratios. This segmentation allows the system to distinguish between different ion types by directing them through different spatial paths, enabling polarity discrimination without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the ion trap are given different local properties, with specific exit paths configured for specific ion types. Each exit path has tailored characteristics (angle, position, electric field configuration) that selectively guide particular ion populations, allowing polarity discrimination through localized path optimization.
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 design enables faster analytical scans without compromising mass resolution, allowing for the simultaneous detection of positive and negative ions with different polarities, improving the speed and accuracy of ion analysis.
Implementation Method 1
an RF voltage which acts to confine ions within the ion trap
Implementation Method 2
mass selectively eject ions from a conventional ion trap in a sequential manner by scanning or stepping the amplitude of an RF voltage which acts to confine ions within the ion trap. Alternatively, the frequency of a supplemental excitation potential which is applied to the electrodes of the ion trap may be scanned or stepped.
Implementation Method 3
RF ion traps may be used to contain simultaneously both positive and negative ions. This enables ion-ion interactions to be utilised to effect ion fragmentation or reaction in the gas phase.
Data Source
AI summary
A mass spectrometer is disclosed comprising a 2D or 3D ion trap. The 2D ion trap comprises a quadrupole rod set ion trap wherein a slot is provided in each of the rods to allow ions to be ejected radially from the ion trap. The 3D ion trap comprises a central ring electrode which is radially segmented and wherein a slot is provided in each radial segment to allow ions to be ejected radially from the ion trap. Ions having different mass to charge ratios and/or opposite polarities may be simultaneously ejected from the ion trap via different exit pathways.