Multi-Josephson Flux-Tunable Qubit for Low-Dephasing Operation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing quantum computing architectures face challenges in reducing sensitivity to magnetic flux noise, which leads to errors and dephasing in qubit devices, particularly due to fluctuations in external magnetic fields, affecting the coherence time and overall performance of quantum processors.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of flux-tunable qubit devices with multiple Josephson junctions and carefully designed circuit loops allows for the identification and operation at 'flux sweet spots' where the qubit frequency is insensitive to magnetic flux noise, reducing dephasing rates and improving coherence times by tuning the qubit frequency to specific magnetic flux values.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If qubit devices operate in external magnetic fields, then quantum operations can be performed, but sensitivity to magnetic flux noise causes dephasing and errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequantum operation fidelityVSAvoidmagnetic flux noise sensitivity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic flux tuning by making the magnetic flux through the SQUID loop time-dependent and controllable. By dynamically adjusting the flux parameter, the system can move between different operating regimes including flux sweet spots where dephasing is minimized, thus resolving the contradiction between performing quantum operations and avoiding magnetic noise sensitivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operating parameter (magnetic flux) to specific values known as flux sweet spots where the first derivative of the qubit frequency with respect to flux is zero. At these parameter points, the qubit becomes insensitive to small flux variations, reducing dephasing while maintaining quantum operation capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Duration of action of stationary object

If multiple Josephson junctions are used to create flux-tunable qubits, then coherence time is improved at flux sweet spots, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoherence timeVSAvoidcircuit structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the quantum circuit into distinct segments: the SQUID loop containing two Josephson junctions for flux tuning, the shunt inductor for setting plasma frequency, and the shunt capacitor for charge control. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while contributing to overall coherence time improvement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The SQUID loop structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides flux tunability of the qubit frequency, enables operation at flux sweet spots for reduced dephasing, and maintains a compact circuit footprint. This multi-functionality achieves coherence time improvement without proportionally increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This approach significantly reduces errors caused by magnetic flux noise, thereby enhancing the coherence time and performance of qubit devices, leading to improved fidelity of quantum gate operations and reduced sensitivity to environmental fluctuations.

Implementation Method 1

a first Josephson junction having a first Josephson energy EJ1; a second Josephson junction having a second Josephson energy EJ2

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJosephson effect: Josephson Effect

Implementation Method 2

The first circuit loop defines a first magnetic flux area configured to receive a first magnetic flux during operation of the quantum integrated circuit. The second circuit loop defines a second magnetic flux area configured to receive a second magnetic flux during operation of the quantum integrated circuit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic flux: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS10050630B2Flux-tunable qubit device with multiple Josephson junctions
Publication Date: 2018.08.14 RIGETTI & CO INC
  • US10050630B2 patent drawing
  • US10050630B2 patent drawing
  • US10050630B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In a general aspect, a qubit device includes two circuit loops. In some aspects, a first circuit loop includes a first Josephson junction, a second circuit loop includes a second Josephson junction, and the first and second loops are configured to receive a magnetic flux that defines a transition frequency of a qubit device. In some aspects, a quantum integrated circuit includes an inductor connected between a first circuit node and a second circuit node; the first Josephson junction connected in parallel with the inductor between the first circuit node and the second circuit node; and the second Josephson junction connected in parallel with the inductor between the first circuit node and the second circuit node.