Meissner Effect Transistor Conductivity Control for Terahertz Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transistors are limited in their ability to efficiently operate at higher frequencies and lower power levels, particularly in the terahertz range, due to heat generation and material limitations.
Innovation Solution
The development of a superconducting Meissner effect transistor (MET) that utilizes a superconducting bridge between current probes, modulated by a magnetic field to break Cooper pairs and control conductivity, allowing for efficient operation at higher frequencies and lower power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional silicon transistors operate at higher frequencies to improve performance, then processing speed is improved, but heat generation increases and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters by using superconducting materials that operate at cryogenic temperatures, enabling transistor operation at Terahertz frequencies without the heat generation problems of silicon transistors. The superconducting state allows for extremely low resistance and minimal power dissipation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the phase transition of materials into the superconducting state below their critical temperature to achieve zero electrical resistance. This phase transition enables the transistor to operate with minimal energy loss and no heat generation from resistive heating.
2Speed
If traditional silicon transistors operate at higher frequencies to improve performance, then processing speed is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters by using superconducting materials that operate at cryogenic temperatures, enabling transistor operation at Terahertz frequencies without the power consumption problems of silicon transistors. The superconducting state allows for extremely low resistance and minimal power dissipation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the phase transition of materials into the superconducting state below their critical temperature to achieve zero electrical resistance. This phase transition enables the transistor to operate with minimal energy loss and no heat generation from resistive heating.
3Ease of operation
If a magnetic field is applied to break Cooper pairs in a superconducting bridge, then conductivity is modulated for transistor operation, but the magnetic field strength must be precisely controlled below critical field value
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback control mechanisms to monitor and adjust the magnetic field strength applied to the superconducting bridge, ensuring it remains below the critical field value while achieving the desired conductivity modulation. This feedback system maintains stable operation without exceeding the superconducting material's critical parameters.
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
The MET achieves improved frequency response and power efficiency by modulating the conductivity of the superconducting bridge with a magnetic field, enabling operation up to 1.25 THz and potentially addressing the limitations of traditional silicon computer chips.
Implementation Method 1
a control line is configured to emit a magnetic field signal having signal strength Hsig at a superconducting bridge, wherein the emitted magnetic field is configured to break Cooper pairs in a superconducting bridge
Implementation Method 2
superconducting Meissner effect transistor (MET)
Data Source
AI summary
Superconducting Meissner effect transistors, methods of modulating, and systems are disclosed. In one aspect a disclosed transistor includes a superconducting bridge between a first and a second current probe, the first and second current probe being electrically connected to a source and a drain electrical connection, respectively and a control line configured to emit a magnetic field signal having signal strength Hsig at the superconducting bridge. In one aspect the emitted magnetic field is configured to break Cooper pairs in the superconducting bridge.