Quantum Hybrid Fiber Cable Loop for Entanglement Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current quantum networking technologies face challenges in extending communication range due to channel loss, particularly in long-distance quantum entanglement distribution, where distance significantly affects the efficiency of entanglement distribution.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a quantum-enabled hybrid fiber cable loop with software-defined network (SDN) architecture, which selects efficient quantum entanglement end-to-end distribution paths and employs quantum repeaters to extend entanglement over long distances by configuring path routing information in real-time based on pre-provisioned knowledge of node distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If quantum entanglement distribution is performed over long distances, then communication range is extended, but channel loss increases and distribution efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the long-distance quantum channel into multiple shorter segments by introducing quantum repeaters at intermediate nodes. Each segment experiences lower channel loss, and the quantum repeaters perform entanglement swapping to extend the overall entanglement distance. This segmentation approach transforms a single long-lossy channel into multiple shorter channels with intermediate regeneration points.
Solution Approach 2:
Quantum repeaters serve as intermediary nodes between the quantum entanglement source and distant destinations. These repeaters receive quantum states, perform measurements and entanglement swapping operations, and forward the entangled states to further extend the quantum network reach. The intermediaries actively regenerate and extend quantum entanglement across long distances.
2Length of stationary object
If quantum repeaters are deployed to extend entanglement distance, then communication range increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a unified network controller that manages multiple quantum repeaters and entanglement sources through a single software-defined networking interface. This controller performs path selection, resource allocation, and coordination of entanglement swapping operations across the entire network, reducing the operational complexity despite the presence of multiple repeaters.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-provisions knowledge of node distances and characteristics before quantum communication requests arrive. The network controller maintains updated information about channel conditions, repeater capabilities, and optimal routing paths, enabling rapid response to entanglement distribution requests without real-time complex calculations.
3Productivity
If real-time path selection is implemented, then distribution efficiency improves, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements pre-characterization of the quantum network topology, where node distances and channel properties are measured and stored in advance. This pre-provisioned knowledge allows the network controller to make rapid path selection decisions based on stored distance information rather than performing real-time measurements, reducing the precision requirements during active quantum communication.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, determining that quantum entanglement be established between first and second nodes of a service provider network including a software defined network (SDN) that facilitates delivery of a service to a subscriber and identifying a path between the first node and the second node based on pre-provisioned information supplied by the SDN. A path length of the path is estimated based on the pre-provisioned information supplied by the SDN, and a repeater node is selected responsive to the path length exceeding a threshold, wherein the path includes a first segment having a segment length that does not exceed the threshold. A quantum entanglement state is shared between the first and second nodes based on transportation of a first photon of a first entangled pair of photons via the first segment. Other embodiments are disclosed.