Integrated SET Transistor Readout for Scalable 2D Quantum Dot Arrays

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing SET transistor-based qubit readout schemes are not scalable for two-dimensional qubit structures, leading to challenges in fabricating large-area quantum dot arrays due to complexity and non-uniformity issues, making it difficult to achieve accurate control over qubit states in such arrays.

Innovation Solution

An integrated quantum dot structure is developed, where one or more SET transistors are formed within an array of quantum dots, with nano-scale metallic vias connecting the SET transistor's source and drain to electrodes, allowing for scalable readout of quantum dot states through capacitive coupling, enabling local control of barrier regions between qubits for improved coupling control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If SET transistors are positioned on the edges of simple quantum dot structures, then readout measurement is enabled, but the architecture is not scalable for two-dimensional qubit structures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescalability for 2D qubit structuresVSAvoidfabrication complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from one-dimensional linear arrays of quantum dots with edge-positioned SET transistors to two-dimensional quantum dot arrays with integrated SET transistors formed within the array structure. This dimensional change enables scalable readout for 2D qubit structures by embedding the readout functionality directly in the 2D plane rather than requiring peripheral positioning.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The SET transistor is integrated within the quantum dot array structure, with the transistor's source, drain, and gate regions formed in the same semiconductor layer as the quantum dots. This nesting approach allows the readout device to be embedded within the qubit array, enabling scalable 2D architectures without requiring separate peripheral readout structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If resonant type readout schemes are used to read qubits in two-dimensional structures, then readout capability is improved, but device footprint and fabrication complexity significantly increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereadout capability for 2D arraysVSAvoiddevice footprint
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the quantum dot qubit structure with the SET transistor readout structure into a single integrated device. The source, drain, and gate regions of the SET transistor are formed in the same semiconductor layer as the quantum dots, allowing the readout function to be combined with the qubit structure itself. This eliminates the need for separate resonator structures with large footprints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses standard semiconductor fabrication processes to create the integrated SET transistor and quantum dot structure, copying proven CMOS manufacturing techniques. This approach avoids the need for specialized resonator fabrication and enables scaling using existing manufacturing infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Device complexity

If shared control lines are used for large scale 2D qubit arrays, then wiring structure simplicity is improved, but local control capability is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewiring structure simplicityVSAvoidlocal control capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements local control by providing separate gate lines that can individually address specific rows or columns of quantum dots within the 2D array. Each quantum dot or group of quantum dots can be controlled independently through locally-addressable gate electrodes, enabling precise manipulation of individual qubits while maintaining a scalable wiring architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

This configuration allows for efficient and scalable readout of multiple quantum dot regions, enabling precise control over qubit states and interactions within large-area quantum dot arrays, addressing the limitations of prior art by providing a more uniform and practical solution for 2D qubit arrays.

Implementation Method 1

a common method for a qubit readout of a spin state of a quantum dot qubit relies on spin-to-charge conversion which can be measured with a sensitive charge sensor such as a single-electron tunnelling (SET) or single hole tunnelling (SHT) transistor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSingle electron tunneling:

Implementation Method 2

the SET transistor being configured to readout change states of the plurality of quantum dot regions; In an embodiment, the SET transistor may be capacitively coupled to the plurality of quantum dot regions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitive coupling: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS20240298551A1Quantum dot structures comprising an integrated single electron tunneling readout and single electron tunneling quantum dot readout structures
Publication Date: 2024.09.05 GROOVE QUANTUM BV
  • US20240298551A1 patent drawing
  • US20240298551A1 patent drawing
  • US20240298551A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An integrated quantum dot structure comprises: one or more semiconductor layers arranged on a substrate; a single electron tunneling (SET) transistor formed in or over the one or more semiconductor layers, the SET transistor comprising a source and a drain connected by tunneling junctions to a conductive island; a plurality of quantum dot regions, preferably an array, arranged around the SET transistor, the plurality of quantum dot regions being formed in the one or more semiconductor layers and the SET transistor being configured to readout change states of the plurality of quantum dot regions; one or more insulating layers provided over the SET transistor and the quantum dot regions; a source electrode and a drain electrode arranged over the one or more insulating layers; and, first and second nano-scale metallic vias connecting the source and drain of the SET transistor to the source and drain electrodes respectively.