Multi-Josephson Flux-Tunable Qubit for Flux Noise Sweet Spots

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current quantum computing architectures face challenges in reducing sensitivity to magnetic flux noise, which leads to errors and dephasing in qubit devices, affecting the coherence time and overall performance.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of flux-tunable qubit devices with multiple Josephson junctions and carefully designed circuit loops allows for tuning of qubit frequencies to 'flux sweet spots' where the derivative of the qubit frequency is zero, reducing sensitivity to magnetic flux noise and improving coherence time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If qubit devices are implemented in superconducting circuits with Josephson junctions, then quantum computing functionality is achieved, but sensitivity to magnetic flux noise increases leading to dephasing and errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequbit coherence timeVSAvoidmagnetic flux noise sensitivity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic tunability of qubit frequency through multiple Josephson junctions with independently controllable critical currents. By dynamically adjusting the ratio of critical currents (Ic1/Ic2) and applying magnetic flux, the system can move between different operating points including 'flux sweet spots' where first and second derivatives of frequency with respect to flux are zero, thereby minimizing sensitivity to magnetic flux noise and maximizing coherence time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes physical parameters (critical current ratios, magnetic flux levels) to transition between different operational regimes. Specifically, it utilizes parameter tuning to reach flux sweet spots where dω/dΦ = 0 and d²ω/dΦ² = 0, which dramatically reduces sensitivity to flux noise and extends coherence time without sacrificing quantum computational functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If multiple Josephson junctions with different critical currents are used, then flux sweet spots can be achieved reducing noise sensitivity, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenoise resistanceVSAvoidcircuit structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The qubit device is segmented into multiple Josephson junctions (at least two) with distinct critical currents, each contributing differently to the overall flux response. This segmentation allows independent control of flux sensitivity through each junction, enabling the system to achieve flux sweet spots where noise sensitivity is minimized while maintaining manageable circuit complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If qubit frequency is tuned to flux sweet spots, then dephasing rates are reduced improving gate fidelity, but tuning control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegate fidelityVSAvoidfrequency tuning control
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs feedback mechanisms to detect and correct deviations from flux sweet spots. By monitoring qubit frequency and adjusting magnetic flux or critical current ratios in real-time, the system maintains operation at optimal points where dephasing is minimized, thereby ensuring high gate fidelity while automating the control process to reduce operational complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 qubit dephasing rates, thereby enhancing the fidelity of quantum gates and extending the coherence time, leading to improved performance and reduced errors in quantum computations.

Implementation Method 1

a first Josephson junction having a first inductance and a first Josephson energy; a second Josephson junction having a second inductance and a second Josephson energy

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

PatentUS11070210B2Flux-tunable qubit device with multiple Josephson junctions
Publication Date: 2021.07.20 RIGETTI & CO INC
  • US11070210B2 patent drawing
  • US11070210B2 patent drawing
  • US11070210B2 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.