Quantum Dot Interconnects via Conductive Vias

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current quantum computing technologies face challenges in achieving strong spatial localization and control over quantum dots, scalability, and flexible electrical connections for integration into larger computing devices.

Innovation Solution

The development of quantum dot devices with a gate disposed on a quantum well stack, an insulating material, and conductive vias extending through the insulating material to make contact with the gate, allowing for precise control and manipulation of quantum dots as qubits in quantum computing devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If quantum dots are used for quantum computing, then quantum mechanical phenomena can be utilized for computation, but strong spatial localization and control over quantum dots becomes challenging

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequantum computing capabilityVSAvoidspatial localization precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into distinct functional regions: quantum well stacks for quantum dot formation, gate structures for control, and interconnect layers for electrical connection. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component to achieve both quantum computing capability and spatial precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces vertical stacking of quantum well layers and gate structures, transitioning from planar to three-dimensional architecture. This dimensional change enables precise spatial localization of quantum dots through vertical confinement while maintaining scalability for quantum computing applications.

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

2Manufacturing precision

If quantum dot devices are developed with precise control mechanisms, then spatial localization improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequantum dot control precisionVSAvoiddevice structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The gate structures serve multiple functions: they control quantum dot formation, provide electrical connection through conductive vias, and enable scalability for multi-qubit systems. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while maintaining precise control.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The device employs nested structures where quantum dots are confined within quantum wells, which are stacked in layers, with gate structures enveloping the quantum dot regions. This nesting approach achieves precise spatial control through multiple confinement levels without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Productivity

If quantum dot devices are designed for scalability, then integration into larger computing systems improves, but flexible electrical connections become more difficult to achieve

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovescalabilityVSAvoidelectrical connection flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements vertical stacking of quantum well layers with conductive vias providing electrical connection through the insulating material layers. This three-dimensional interconnect architecture enables scalability by adding more quantum dot layers vertically while maintaining electrical access through the stacked structure.

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

Solution Approach 2:

Conductive vias serve as intermediary elements that penetrate insulating material layers to establish electrical connection between gate structures and underlying quantum dot regions. This intermediary approach enables flexible electrical connections in scaled-up devices without compromising quantum dot isolation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11450798B2Interconnects for quantum dot devices
Publication Date: 2022.09.20 INTEL CORP
  • US11450798B2 patent drawing
  • US11450798B2 patent drawing
  • US11450798B2 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 gate disposed on a quantum well stack; an insulating material disposed on the gate; and a conductive via extending through the insulating material and in conductive contact with the gate.