Quantum Processor Error Reduction via Topology and Annealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current quantum processors face limitations in solving complex problems due to intrinsic/control errors and thermally-assisted noise, which affect the fidelity of representing Ising spin glass instances and the performance of quantum annealing processes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of techniques to reduce intrinsic/control errors and thermally-assisted noise includes modifying processor topology, improving fabrication processes, and encoding problem formulations for error correction, such as using independently tunable flux biases, reducing qubit background susceptibility, and strategically placing couplers to enhance connectivity and treewidth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If quantum annealing is performed to solve optimization problems, then computational capability is improved, but intrinsic/control errors and thermally-assisted noise reduce fidelity and performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the Hamiltonian evolution parameters and annealing schedule to optimize the balance between computational speed and error suppression. By carefully controlling the time-dependent parameters of the quantum evolution process, the system achieves better fidelity while maintaining computational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary error correction techniques and auxiliary systems that mediate between the quantum processor and the environment. These intermediaries help suppress thermally-assisted noise and intrinsic errors without fundamentally changing the quantum annealing process itself.
2Productivity
If evolution is performed too fast, then productivity is improved, but the system can be excited to higher energy states reducing accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic annealing schedules that adapt the evolution rate during the quantum annealing process. The system transitions from faster evolution at certain stages to slower evolution at critical points (such as anti-crossings), optimizing both speed and ground state fidelity throughout the evolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic modulation of the evolution parameters to maintain adiabatic conditions at critical points while allowing faster evolution elsewhere. This periodic adjustment of the annealing schedule ensures the system remains in the ground state when needed without sacrificing overall evolution speed.
3Loss of time
If quantum tunneling is used to reach global energy minimum, then computation time is reduced, but sensitivity to noise and errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by preparing the quantum system in optimal initial states and pre-conditioning the Hamiltonian evolution to maximize the beneficial effects of quantum tunneling while minimizing exposure to noise. Error correction protocols are also prepared in advance to mitigate noise effects during the tunneling process.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for improving the performance of a quantum processor are described. Some techniques employ improving the processor topology through design and fabrication, reducing intrinsic/control errors, reducing thermally-assisted errors and methods of encoding problems in the quantum processor for error correction.