Quantum Dot Devices With Vertical Fins For Spatial Localization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing quantum computing technologies face challenges in achieving strong spatial localization of quantum dots, good scalability, and effective control over quantum dot interactions and manipulation.

Innovation Solution

The development of quantum dot devices with a substrate and a quantum well stack, including a back gate disposed between the quantum well layer and the substrate, enables the formation of quantum dots as quantum bits (qubits) and provides control over these quantum dots for quantum logic operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If quantum dots are formed without fins, then device structure is simpler, but spatial localization of quantum dots is weaker

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespatial localization of quantum dotsVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces vertical fins that extend upward from the substrate, adding a vertical dimension to the quantum dot confinement structure. This vertical dimensionality enhancement provides stronger spatial localization of quantum dots by creating three-dimensional potential wells, while the fins can be periodically arranged to maintain fabrication compatibility with standard semiconductor processes.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The quantum well layer is segmented into multiple discrete quantum dots by the vertical fins, which act as separating structures. This segmentation creates isolated potential wells that strongly localize quantum dots in space, while the periodic arrangement of fins allows scalable fabrication using standard lithography and etching techniques.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If quantum dots are strongly localized, then control over quantum dot interactions is improved, but scalability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol over quantum dot interactionsVSAvoidscalability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables independent control of quantum dot properties by applying voltages to gates positioned above each fin. This allows tuning of quantum dot energy levels, sizes, and interaction strengths through electrical parameter changes, providing reliable control over quantum dot interactions while maintaining scalability through electrical programming rather than physical restructuring.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The periodic fin structure serves multiple functions: it provides strong spatial localization through vertical confinement, enables scalable fabrication through periodic repetition, and allows individual addressability through associated gates. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between strong localization and scalability.

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

3Ease of operation

If back gate is positioned closer to quantum well layer, then control over quantum dots is enhanced, but electrical connection design becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol over quantum dotsVSAvoidelectrical connection design
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a dielectric layer as an intermediary between the back gate and the quantum well layer. This intermediary allows the back gate to be positioned close to the quantum well for enhanced control while maintaining proper electrical isolation and enabling standard fabrication processes, thus resolving the contradiction between control enhancement and design complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12245523B2Quantum dot devices with fins
Publication Date: 2025.03.04 INTEL CORP
  • US12245523B2 patent drawing
  • US12245523B2 patent drawing
  • US12245523B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed herein are quantum dot devices, as well as related computing devices and methods. For example, in some embodiments, a quantum dot device may include: a substrate and a quantum well stack disposed on the substrate. The quantum well stack may include a quantum well layer and a back gate, and the back gate may be disposed between the quantum well layer and the substrate.