Quantum Dot Manipulation Zone for Long-Distance Qubit Transport

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current semiconductor-based quantum computers face challenges in scaling due to the difficulty in coupling qubits over distances, which is essential for implementing universal quantum computers, as existing structures lack the necessary space for local control electronics and require extensive gate electrodes and voltages.

Innovation Solution

The electronic component features gate electrode assemblies with parallel electrode fingers that create movable potential wells, allowing for continuous and directed movement of quantum dots across the substrate, enabling the transportation of qubits over longer distances while maintaining their quantum mechanical state, and includes a manipulator for setting and manipulating qubit states using magnetic fields and microwaves.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If conventional gate electrode structures are used to couple qubits, then qubit coupling is achieved, but the coupling distance is limited and device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling distanceVSAvoidgate electrode structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The gate electrode assembly is segmented into multiple electrode fingers arranged in parallel. These segmented electrodes create a series of potential wells that can independently manipulate quantum dots at different positions, enabling extended coupling distance through modular electrode structure rather than a single complex electrode.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from conventional planar gate structures to a three-dimensional arrangement with electrode fingers extending in multiple directions. This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous control of quantum dots at various spatial locations, achieving longer coupling distances without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.

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

2Length of stationary object

If quantum dots are transported over longer distances, then qubit coupling is enabled, but quantum mechanical state changes occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransport distanceVSAvoidquantum mechanical state stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The manipulator applies magnetic fields and microwave pulses to quantum dots before and during transport to pre-establish and maintain their quantum mechanical states. This preliminary and continuous action ensures that quantum dots retain their intended quantum states throughout extended transport distances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent dynamically adjusts magnetic field strength and microwave frequency parameters during quantum dot transport. By changing these physical parameters in response to position and environmental conditions, the system compensates for decoherence effects and maintains quantum state stability over longer distances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Quantity of substance

If extensive gate electrodes and voltages are used, then qubit coupling is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegate electrode materialVSAvoidmanufacturing process
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The gate electrode assembly with parallel electrode fingers serves multiple functions: creating potential wells, transporting quantum dots, manipulating qubit states, and enabling coupling. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate specialized electrodes, thereby reducing overall material quantity and simplifying manufacturing processes.

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

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 solution allows for the realization of logic circuits with quantum dots in defined quantum mechanical states, facilitating the coupling of qubits over micrometers, thus addressing the scalability issues in quantum computing by enabling the transport of quantum states across the substrate without quantum mechanical changes.

Implementation Method 1

Electronic states can be split with regard to their spin state by means of an external magnetic field (Zeeman effect) and thus addressed separately.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectZeeman effect: Zeeman Effect

Implementation Method 2

Methods for manipulating single qubits via electron spin resonance (ESR) or electron dipole spin resonance (EDSR) are known.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectron dipole spin resonance: Electron Paramagnetic Resonance

Implementation Method 3

nanoscale gate electrodes (also referred to as gates), which are applied to the surface of the component, the potential landscape within the two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) is shaped in such a manner that individual electrons can be captured in the quantum dots.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrostatic potential well formation: Electric Field

Data Source

PatentUS12182041B2Manipulation zone for qubits in quantum dots
Publication Date: 2024.12.31 FORSCHUNGSZENTRUM JULICH GMBH
  • US12182041B2 patent drawing
  • US12182041B2 patent drawing
  • US12182041B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic component is formed by a semiconductor component or a semiconductor-like structure having gate electrode assemblies for manipulating the quantum state of qubits in quantum dots. It comprises a substrate comprising a two-dimensional electron gas or electron hole gas. Electrical contacts connect the gate electrode assemblies to voltage sources. A first gate electrode assembly having gate electrodes is arranged on a surface of the electronic component to generate movable potential wells in the substrate. A second gate electrode assembly serves to generate a potential barrier, which is adjacent to the first gate electrode assembly. The gate electrode assemblies have parallel electrode fingers, whereby the electrode fingers of the first gate electrode assembly are periodically and alternately interconnected in order to effect an almost continuous movement of the potential wells through the substrate.