Bench-Top TOF Mass Spectrometer Vacuum Port Shielding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mass spectrometers used in the biopharmaceutical industry are complex and have a large footprint, making them unsuitable for small-scale applications and requiring either complex equipment or outsourcing for high-resolution accurate mass data collection.
Innovation Solution
A compact Time of Flight (TOF) mass spectrometer with a reduced footprint, featuring a vacuum housing with apertured covers to prevent electrical interference and solid objects from entering the gas pump, and a compressible conductive gasket for easy mounting, allowing for high-resolution mass analysis in a bench-top format.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional mass spectrometry equipment is used to achieve high resolution accurate mass data, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mass spectrometer is divided into functionally independent modules: ion source module, mass analysis module, and detection module. Each module performs a specific function and can be independently optimized, simplified, or replaced without affecting the entire system, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument is designed with multi-functional capabilities that allow a single device to perform various mass spectrometry techniques (TOF, ion mobility, etc.) and analytical functions. This universality eliminates the need for multiple specialized instruments, reducing the complexity burden on individual devices while maintaining high measurement precision through standardized platforms.
2Measurement precision
If conventional mass spectrometry equipment is used to achieve high resolution accurate mass data, then measurement precision is improved, but the footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
Components are arranged in a nested configuration where smaller functional units are housed within larger structural elements. The ion source, mass analyzer, and detector are positioned in nested spatial relationships, with shared vacuum chambers and common support structures, thereby minimizing the overall footprint while maintaining the functional integrity required for high-resolution measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument transitions from traditional horizontal or vertical linear arrangements to a three-dimensional compact configuration. Components are stacked and positioned in multiple spatial dimensions, utilizing vertical space and depth more efficiently, which significantly reduces the horizontal footprint while preserving the necessary path lengths and separation distances for accurate mass analysis.
3Measurement precision
If conventional mass spectrometry equipment is used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mass spectrometer incorporates self-diagnostic, self-calibration, and self-maintenance features. The system automatically monitors its own performance parameters, detects deviations, and performs corrective actions without user intervention. Routine maintenance tasks such as calibration and performance verification are automated, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining measurement precision through consistent automated procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument includes real-time feedback systems that continuously monitor operational parameters and provide immediate information to the user about system status, performance quality, and maintenance needs. This feedback mechanism guides operators through complex procedures, alerts them to potential issues before they affect measurements, and ensures optimal operating conditions are maintained, thereby improving ease of operation without compromising measurement precision.
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
The compact design enables high-resolution accurate mass data collection, reducing manufacturing costs and operational complexity while maintaining performance, making it suitable for biopharmaceutical applications and easy to use and maintain.
Implementation Method 1
The first apertured cover may be electrically conductive so as to prevent electric fields passing therethrough and entering the first gas inlet port and/or first gas exhaust port
Implementation Method 2
a gas pump having a first gas inlet port connected to the first gas exhaust port by a first gas conduit for evacuating the first vacuum chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A mass spectrometer comprising: a vacuum housing comprising a first vacuum chamber having a first gas exhaust port; a gas pump (1700) having a first gas inlet port connected to the first gas exhaust port (H1) by a first gas conduit for evacuating the first vacuum chamber; and a first apertured cover (2010) arranged over the first gas exhaust port (H1) or first gas inlet port, or in the first gas conduit therebetween.