Heterogeneous Quantum-Classical Processor Task Delegation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current computing systems face inefficiencies in solving certain problems due to the limitations of either classical or quantum processors, as quantum processors may not provide speedup for all types of computational tasks, and integrating both types of processing capabilities in a heterogeneous environment is challenging.

Innovation Solution

A heterogeneous computing system is developed, combining a quantum processor unit with classical processor units, such as CPUs and GPUs, to leverage the strengths of both paradigms by delegating tasks based on the type of processing required, with the classical processor optimizing and interpreting quantum computations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a quantum processor is used for all computational tasks, then quantum processing capability is maximized, but processing efficiency deteriorates for tasks not suitable for quantum computing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequantum processing capabilityVSAvoidprocessing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The computing system is segmented into distinct quantum and classical processing units. The heterogeneous computing architecture divides computational tasks between a quantum processor unit (QPU) and classical processor units (CPUs, GPUs), allowing each segment to handle tasks for which it is most suited. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling quantum processing capability while maintaining efficiency for classical tasks through dedicated classical processors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If a heterogeneous computing system combining quantum and classical processors is implemented, then processing power is enhanced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing powerVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A host processor unit acts as an intermediary between classical memory and the quantum processor unit. The host processor generates instructions based on variable values, manages task delegation to appropriate processors, and coordinates data flow between components. This intermediary simplifies the overall system complexity by providing a centralized control point that manages the heterogeneous architecture without requiring direct complex interactions between all components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Loss of time

If tasks are delegated to quantum processor based on variable values from classical memory, then computational speedup is achieved for suitable problems, but coordination overhead between processors increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomputational timeVSAvoidcoordination overhead
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary classification of computational tasks to determine which are suitable for quantum processing before execution. The host processor analyzes task characteristics and pre-determines delegation decisions based on variable values and task types. This preliminary action reduces coordination overhead during actual execution by establishing clear task delegation rules in advance, allowing quantum and classical processors to operate more independently once tasks are assigned.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11941482B1Operating a quantum processor in a heterogeneous computing architecture
Publication Date: 2024.03.26 RIGETTI & CO INC
  • US11941482B1 patent drawing
  • US11941482B1 patent drawing
  • US11941482B1 patent drawing

AI summary

In some aspects, a heterogeneous computing system includes a quantum processor unit and a classical processor unit. In some instances, variables defined by a computer program are stored in a classical memory in the heterogeneous computing system. The computer program is executed in the heterogeneous computing system by operation of the quantum processor unit and the classical processor unit. Instructions are generated for the quantum processor by a host processor unit based on values of the variables stored in the classical memory. The instructions are configured to cause the quantum processor unit to perform a data processing task defined by the computer program. The values of the variables are updated in the classical memory based on output values generated by the quantum processor unit. The classical processor unit processes the updated values of the variables.