The rotating-saddle trap: a mechanical analogy to RF-electric-quadrupole ion trapping?

Abstract

The rotating-saddle potential ball-bearing trap has long been used as a mechanical analogue to explain the operating principles of the Paul-type RF-electric-quadrupole ion trap. This paper outlines the shortcomings of this analogy, as well as explaining how and why this system remains an excellent tool for explaining ion-trap operation. The basic theory of the operating principles of the rotating-saddle trap is provided, which, unlike the Paul Trap is analytically solvable in the friction-free regime. In addition, some extensions to this theory are presented to examine such effects as friction. These results are compared with the equivalent results for Paul-Trap theory, as well as to experimental results measured with a rotating-saddle trap constructed at the University of Calgary. The technical details of this trap, an excellent tool for either lecture demonstrations or teaching laboratory experiments, are also presented, as well as some comments on building such a trap. PACS Nos.: 45.50-j, 01.50Pa, 32.80Pj