Josephson Parametric Ports With Single-Generator Pump Coupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing Josephson parametric devices require multiple pump tone sources and phase-coherent generators, leading to complex circuitry and increased space requirements in quantum computing systems, particularly in qubit readout applications.

Innovation Solution

Designing Josephson parametric devices with same-frequency ports that utilize passive and parametric couplings, allowing for simplified circuitry and reduced hardware footprint by using a single signal generator for multiple couplings, and incorporating additional resonant modes for improved bandwidth and coherence.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If multiple pump tone sources and phase-coherent generators are used in Josephson parametric devices, then device functionality is achieved, but circuitry complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuitry complexityVSAvoiddevice functionality
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple pump tone sources into a single signal generator that produces multiple pump tones through parametric coupling. This merging approach reduces the number of separate components while maintaining the necessary device functionality, directly addressing the contradiction between circuitry complexity and device functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

A single signal generator is designed to perform multiple functions by generating multiple pump tones simultaneously. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate pump tone sources, reducing circuitry complexity while preserving all required device operations

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

2Area of stationary object

If multiple pump tone sources are used, then parametric coupling is achieved, but hardware footprint increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehardware footprintVSAvoidparametric coupling capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple pump tone generation capabilities are merged into a single signal generator unit, significantly reducing the hardware footprint while maintaining full parametric coupling capability. This consolidation achieves the same functional result with compact hardware

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a nested structure where multiple pump tones are generated within a single signal generator framework. The signal generator contains nested functional elements that produce different pump tones, allowing compact hardware implementation while preserving adaptability for various parametric coupling configurations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Productivity

If same-frequency ports are used, then bandwidth is improved, but resonant mode configuration becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovebandwidthVSAvoidresonant mode configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic frequency tuning of resonant modes to achieve same-frequency ports. By dynamically adjusting the resonant frequencies of different modes, the system achieves enhanced bandwidth while managing configuration complexity through active control rather than fixed static design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enhances qubit readout performance with improved gain and reduced noise, while minimizing the cryogenic space requirements and hardware complexity in quantum computing systems.

Implementation Method 1

Josephson parametric devices having same frequency ports

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJosephson effect: Josephson Effect

Data Source

PatentUS12355437B2Josephson parametric devices having same-frequency ports
Publication Date: 2025.07.08 GOOGLE LLC
  • US12355437B2 patent drawing
  • US12355437B2 patent drawing
  • US12355437B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A Josephson parametric device (e.g., a circulator/isolator or directional amplifier) can include a plurality of resonant modes, a plurality of couplings, an input port and an output port. The plurality of resonant modes includes first, second, and third resonant modes, the first and third resonant modes both configured to operate at a first resonant frequency and the second resonant mode configured to operate at a second resonant frequency that is different than the first resonant frequency. The plurality of couplings includes a passive coupling between the first and third resonant modes, a first parametric coupling between the first and second resonant modes, and a second parametric coupling between the second and third resonant modes. The input port is coupled to the first resonant mode of the device, and the output port is coupled to the third resonant mode of the device.