Segmented RF Electrode Ion Trap for Space-Constrained Qubits

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ion-trap devices face spatial constraints as the number of integrated elements increases, necessitating a solution to accommodate more controllable qubits while maintaining efficient trapping and manipulation capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A device with segmented RF electrodes and DC electrodes, allowing for separate RF segments on a substrate, enabling efficient use of space for optical elements and DC routing, and maintaining consistent oscillation frequencies for trapped ions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the number of integrated elements (RF electrodes, DC electrodes, optical elements) is increased to support more controllable qubits, then the qubit capacity and computational capability are improved, but the spatial constraints on the trap surface are exceeded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequbit capacityVSAvoidtrap surface area
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The RF electrode is divided into multiple separate RF segments arranged on the trap surface. This segmentation allows the RF potential to be generated through distributed segments rather than requiring a large continuous electrode area, enabling more elements to be integrated while maintaining the trapping function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning RF segments at different heights or layers above the trap surface, rather than confining all elements to a single plane. This three-dimensional arrangement allows more elements to be integrated without proportionally increasing the two-dimensional trap surface area.

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

2Area of stationary object

If RF segments are separated on the trap surface to reduce spatial constraints, then the area utilization is improved, but the RF potential distribution may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearea utilizationVSAvoidRF potential distribution
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The RF segments are strategically positioned and sized to create local regions of appropriate potential strength. By optimizing the local characteristics of each segment (position, size, spacing), the overall RF potential distribution is maintained while maximizing area utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple separated RF segments work together to combine their individual RF potentials, creating a unified trapping field. The segments are configured such that their combined effect produces the necessary RF potential distribution for ion trapping, effectively merging their contributions despite physical separation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

The solution provides a scalable ion-trap design that enhances space utilization, supports increased qubit density, and maintains consistent radial oscillations, facilitating efficient quantum computing operations.

Implementation Method 1

at least one radio frequency, RF, electrode configured to generate an RF potential for trapping at least one charged atomic object along a trap axis

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field: Electric Field

Implementation Method 2

a plurality of direct current, DC, electrodes configured to generate a DC potential

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectric field: Electric Field

Data Source

PatentEP4664491A1Device for trapping charged atomic objects
Publication Date: 2025.12.17 INFINEON TECH AUSTRIA AG
  • EP4664491A1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP4664491A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4664491A1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B

AI summary

A device for trapping charged atomic objects (100) including: a substrate (510) comprising a first major surface (520); at least one radio frequency, RF, electrode (101) configured to generate an RF potential for trapping at least one ion (150) along a trap axis, wherein the at least one RF electrode comprises a plurality of RF segments (111) arranged on the first major surface of the substrate, and wherein the plurality of RF segments are at least partly separated on the first major surface of the substrate; and a plurality of direct current, DC, electrodes (102) configured to generate a DC potential.