Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A circular cycloidal mass spectrometer has an outer electrode of generally circular configuration and an inner electrode having a generally circular outer periphery with an annulus for the flow of ions defined therebetween. The electrodes are structured to create an electric field therebetween. A magnetic field generator is structured to create a magnetic field oriented generally perpendicular to said electric field. An ion beam source for injecting ions into the annulus for travel therearound is provided, and an ion exit for discharge of the ions traveling in said annulus is provided with an ion collector being disposed adjacent to the ion exit. The circular cycloidal mass spectrometer may be structured to provide, under the influence of the electric field and magnetic field, a path of travel for the ion beams, which is similar to either epicycloidal or hypocycloidal curves. If desired, elliptical shapes or other suitable shapes providing a nonlinear path of ion travel may be employed. A filter may be interposed between said outer electrode and said inner electrode.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim