Travelling Wave Ion Mobility Separator with Counter Gas Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ion mobility separators lack the ability to effectively switch between ion mobility and mass-to-charge ratio separation modes, limiting their functionality and resolution.
Innovation Solution
A method and device utilizing transient DC voltages and counter gas flows to separate ions, allowing for switching between ion mobility and mass-to-charge ratio separation by varying the velocity of the transient DC voltages and gas flow direction, enabling improved resolution and operational flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional ion mobility separators with DC drift tubes are used, then ion mobility separation is achieved, but the device cannot separate ions by mass-to-charge ratio
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the electric field configuration changeable between two distinct modes: a static DC electric field for ion mobility separation and a travelling wave electric field for mass-to-charge ratio separation. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the same device to adapt between different separation mechanisms, resolving the contradiction between versatility and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the voltage application pattern on the electrodes - either maintaining a static potential gradient for ion mobility separation or applying sequentially switching potentials to create travelling waves for mass-to-charge ratio separation. This parameter switching enables the device to achieve both separation modes with high resolution.
2Measurement precision
If a counterflow of gas is provided in the ion mobility separator, then ion mobility separation performance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies pneumatics by introducing a counterflow of gas through the ion mobility separator that opposes the direction of ion travel. This gas flow creates a more uniform electric field environment and reduces field distortions, thereby improving ion mobility separation resolution without requiring complex additional separation components.
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 method provides enhanced ion mobility and mass-to-charge ratio separation capabilities, allowing the same device to efficiently separate ions based on either parameter by adjusting operational parameters, thereby improving separation power and duty cycle.
Implementation Method 1
applying one or more transient DC voltages or potentials to at least some of said electrodes in order to urge ions in a first direction through said separation device
Implementation Method 2
providing a gas flow in a second direction which is substantially inclined or opposed to said first direction
Data Source
AI summary
A method of separating ions according to mass to charge ratio is disclosed. The method comprises: providing a separation device comprising a plurality of electrodes; applying one or more transient DC voltages or potentials to at least some of said electrodes in order to urge ions in a first direction through said separation device; and providing a gas flow in a second direction which is substantially inclined or opposed to said first direction. The opposed gas flow unexpectedly improves the mass to charge ratio separation resolution of the device.