Quantum Controller Frequency Generation for Phase-Continuous Hops

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional frequency generation methods in quantum computer control systems face limitations in precision and efficiency, particularly in maintaining phase continuity across frequency hops and supporting higher output sample rates, which can lead to increased latency and resource utilization.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a quantum controller architecture that includes frequency generation circuitry with CORDIC circuits, phase generation, and S-matrix generation, enabling concurrent generation of multiple frequencies and phase continuity through timestamp-based phase calculations and matrix rotations, as well as upconversion and chirp generation capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional frequency generation methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and manufacturing precision deteriorate due to inability to maintain phase continuity across frequency hops

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency generation precisionVSAvoidfrequency generation circuitry complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frequency generation process is segmented into discrete frequency hops, each with independently calculated phase parameters. The CORDIC circuit processes each frequency segment separately using timestamp-based phase calculations, allowing precise control of phase continuity across frequency transitions without requiring a completely redesign of the entire frequency generation system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes frequency parameters while maintaining phase continuity through timestamp-based phase calculations. The CORDIC circuit adjusts phase parameters (θk) based on timestamp values and frequency settings, enabling precise frequency transitions without loss of phase information, thereby improving measurement precision through parameter optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If conventional frequency generation methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates due to increased latency and inability to support higher output sample rates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput sample rateVSAvoidfrequency generation circuitry complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Phase information is preserved and calculated in advance using timestamp values before frequency hops occur. The system pre-calculates phase parameters for each frequency segment, allowing rapid frequency transitions without real-time phase computation delays, thereby reducing latency and increasing output sample rate capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical or analog frequency synthesis methods with a digital CORDIC-based approach. This substitution enables higher output sample rates and reduced latency by utilizing digital timestamp-based phase calculations and parallel processing capabilities, though it increases digital circuit complexity.

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

3Measurement precision

If timestamp-based phase calculations and matrix rotations are implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional circuit components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvephase continuity precisionVSAvoidcircuit components quantity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The CORDIC circuit is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: frequency synthesis, phase calculation using timestamps, and matrix rotation operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated circuits for each function, thereby improving phase continuity precision while limiting the increase in overall device complexity through component consolidation.

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

4Loss of time

If conventional frequency generation is used, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of time increases due to latency in frequency hops

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency hop latencyVSAvoidfrequency generation architecture complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Phase information is preserved and calculated in advance using timestamp values before frequency hops occur. The system pre-calculates phase parameters for each frequency segment, allowing rapid frequency transitions without real-time phase computation delays, thereby reducing latency and increasing output sample rate capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10931267B1Frequency generation in a quantum controller
Publication Date: 2021.02.23 QUANTUM MACHINES
  • US10931267B1 patent drawing
  • US10931267B1 patent drawing
  • US10931267B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system comprises time-tracking circuitry and phase parameter generation circuitry. The time-tracking circuitry is operable to generate a time-tracking value corresponding to time elapsed since a reference time. The phase parameter generation circuitry operable to: receive the time-tracking value; receive a control signal that conveys a frequency parameter corresponding to a desired frequency of an oscillating signal; and generate a plurality of phase parameters used for generation of an oscillating signal, wherein the generation of the plurality of phase parameters is based on the time-tracking value and the frequency parameter such that the oscillating signal maintains phase continuity across changes in the frequency parameter.