Patent ID: 7705299
Filing Date: 2010-04-27
Classification: B82Y,G01Q,H01J

Abstract:
1. A method, comprising: providing a scanning ion source system, comprising: disposing the scanning ion probe into a sample, wherein the sample includes an electrolyte, and wherein the sample is disposed adjacent a sample electrode; determining a first location in the sample using the scanning ion probe; applying a first voltage to the sample electrode and a second voltage to the membrane; ionizing molecules in the sample to produce a plurality of first ionized molecules, wherein the difference between the first voltage and the second voltage generates a first potential force that drives the first ionized molecules towards the membrane, wherein the first ionized molecules are from the first location; producing a reverse-Taylor-cone of the electrolyte through one or more of the orifices in the membrane, wherein the electrolyte includes the first ionized molecules; and applying a third voltage to an ion generation chamber electrode disposed on a portion of the chamber walls, wherein the difference between the third voltage and the second voltage generates a second potential force that drives the first ionized molecules towards a second end of the ion generation chamber.