Quantum Dot Device with Trench Gate and Fin Structure

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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 flexibility in electrical connections, which are essential for effective quantum logic operations and integration into larger computing devices.

Innovation Solution

The development of quantum dot devices with a base, fins, insulating material, and gates that allow for precise control over quantum dot formation and manipulation, including the use of quantum well layers, trench structures, and magnet lines to manage spin states, enabling strong spatial localization and scalability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional quantum computing technologies are used, then quantum computation can be performed, but strong spatial localization and control over quantum dots cannot be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespatial localization precisionVSAvoidcontrol mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device segments the quantum dot system into distinct functional regions: quantum well layers for quantum dot formation, insulating material layers for electrical isolation, and gate electrode structures for localized control. This segmentation enables precise spatial localization of quantum dots while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements local quality by providing different structural characteristics at different locations: quantum well layers with specific thicknesses and compositions for quantum dot formation, insulating material with tailored dielectric properties, and gate structures with varying geometries. This allows optimized control and localization at each specific region without compromising overall device performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Productivity

If quantum dot devices are designed for scalability, then integration into larger computing devices is enabled, but flexibility in electrical connections may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovescalabilityVSAvoidelectrical connection flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The gate electrode structures serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide electrical control over quantum dot formation, enable scalable integration through standardized interfaces, and maintain connection flexibility through configurable geometries. The insulating material layers also provide both electrical isolation for scalability and pathways for flexible connection routing.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes multi-layer stacking in the vertical dimension to achieve scalability, with quantum well layers, insulating material layers, and gate electrodes arranged in successive layers. This vertical dimensionality allows horizontal scalability while maintaining electrical connection flexibility through inter-layer routing and three-dimensional electrode configurations.

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

3Ease of operation

If precise control over quantum dot formation is implemented, then quantum logic operations are enhanced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequantum logic operation controlVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The insulating material layers act as intermediaries between the gate electrodes and quantum well layers, providing electrical isolation while allowing controlled interaction. This intermediary structure enables precise control over quantum dot formation through electrostatic fields without requiring direct complex structural modifications to the quantum well regions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning and manipulation systems with electrostatic control mechanisms. Gate electrodes generate electric fields that precisely control quantum dot formation and manipulation without requiring mechanical movement or complex physical manipulation structures, thereby enhancing control while managing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

These quantum dot devices provide robust control over quantum dot interactions, scalability, and design flexibility, enhancing the performance of quantum computing devices by enabling efficient quantum logic operations and integration into larger systems.

Implementation Method 1

The fin includes a quantum well layer configured to form a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) or hole gas

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectQuantum confinement: Potential Well

Implementation Method 2

a magnet line to manage spin states

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field interaction: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 3

a gate metal on the insulating material and extending into the trench

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectric field confinement: Electric Field

Data Source

PatentUS11444188B2Quantum dot devices
Publication Date: 2022.09.13 INTEL CORP
  • US11444188B2 patent drawing
  • US11444188B2 patent drawing
  • US11444188B2 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 base; a fin extending away from the base, wherein the fin includes a quantum well layer; an insulating material at least partially above the fin, wherein the insulating material includes a trench above the fin; and a gate metal on the insulating material and extending into the trench.