Series Quantum Dot and Dolan Bridge Junctions for Qubit Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current quantum computing technologies face challenges in integrating different types of qubits within a single quantum processor, limiting applications in frequency tuning, quantum memory, sensing, error correction, and redundancy.

Innovation Solution

A method is developed to form a quantum circuit by creating a nanowire substrate with ion-implanted regions, forming leads that partially overlap the nanowire to create a quantum dot Josephson junction, and connecting it in series with a Dolan bridge Josephson junction, utilizing a dielectric layer to separate leads, thereby enabling the integration of quantum dot and Dolan bridge Josephson junctions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If different types of qubits are integrated in a single quantum processor, then functionality and performance are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to combine different qubitsVSAvoidintegration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The quantum processor is segmented into distinct functional regions: a quantum dot region for storing quantum information and a Dolan bridge region for frequency tuning. These segments are connected through a shared superconducting island, allowing independent optimization of each function while maintaining overall system integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A shared superconducting island acts as an intermediary element that couples the quantum dot and Dolan bridge structures. This intermediary enables quantum state transfer and frequency tuning functionality without requiring direct complex interactions between the quantum dot and tuning elements, simplifying the overall integration architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If quantum dot Josephson junction and Dolan bridge Josephson junction are connected in series, then frequency tuning and error correction capabilities are enhanced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror correction capabilityVSAvoidjunction fabrication precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple Josephson junctions (quantum dot junction and Dolan bridge junctions) are merged into a series configuration sharing common superconducting islands. This merging creates a unified quantum circuit that provides both frequency tuning and error correction functionality while maintaining consistent fabrication processes across all junctions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The series-connected Josephson junction structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: the quantum dot junction provides quantum state storage and readout, while the Dolan bridge junctions enable frequency tuning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby reducing overall manufacturing complexity.

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

3Reliability

If leads are separated by dielectric layer in Dolan bridge configuration, then Josephson junction performance is improved, but device fabrication complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveJosephson junction performanceVSAvoidfabrication process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Dielectric layers are deposited and patterned as preliminary structural elements before forming the metal leads. This preliminary action creates pre-defined separation regions that guide subsequent lead formation, ensuring proper spacing and alignment without requiring complex real-time adjustments during lead fabrication.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The dielectric layer introduces a vertical dimension to the lead separation strategy. Instead of relying solely on lateral spacing in the planar dimension, the vertical dielectric layer provides three-dimensional isolation between leads, enabling better junction performance while using standard planar fabrication techniques for lead deposition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 configuration enhances the ability to combine different qubits, improving the functionality of quantum processors by enabling efficient frequency tuning, error correction, and redundancy, and enhancing the overall performance of quantum computers.

Implementation Method 1

quantum dot Josephson junction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJosephson effect: Josephson Effect

Implementation Method 2

Dolan bridge Josephson junction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJosephson effect: Josephson Effect

Implementation Method 3

implanting a second portion of the substrate not covered by the mask with ions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectIon implantation: Ion Implantation

Data Source

PatentUS12041859B2Combined Dolan bridge and quantum dot Josephson junction in series
Publication Date: 2024.07.16 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION
  • US12041859B2 patent drawing
  • US12041859B2 patent drawing
  • US12041859B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of producing a quantum circuit includes forming a mask on a substrate to cover a first portion of the substrate, implanting a second portion of the substrate with ions, and removing the mask, thereby providing a nanowire. The method further includes forming a first lead and a second lead, the first lead and the second lead each partially overlapping the nanowire. In operation, a portion of the nanowire between the first and second leads forms a quantum dot, thereby providing a quantum dot Josephson junction. The method further includes forming a third lead and a fourth lead, one of the third and fourth leads partially overlapping the nanowire, wherein the third lead is separated from the fourth lead by a dielectric layer, thereby providing a Dolan bridge Josephson junction. The nanowire is configured to connect the quantum dot Josephson junction and the Dolan bridge Josephson junction in series.