Single-Photon Space Division Multiplexing for Multidimensional Quantum States
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current quantum computing methods face limitations in generating multidimensional quantum states efficiently, which restricts the information capacity and complexity of quantum computations.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus and method employ space division multiplexing of a single photon using a spatial light modulator (SLM) for phase modulation, generating multidimensional quantum states by dividing the photon's state into various quadrants, with a photon generator producing heralded single photons through an atomic vapor cell and lasers, allowing for adjustable phase control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional quantum computing methods are used, then quantum states can be manipulated using qubits, but the information capacity is limited compared to multidimensional quantum states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments a single photon's spatial state into multiple regions (e.g., four quadrants: top, bottom, left, right) using a spatial light modulator. Each spatial region represents a distinct quantum state dimension, enabling a single photon to encode multiple bits of information simultaneously. This segmentation approach transforms a conventional single-state photon into a multidimensional quantum state carrier without requiring multiple photons.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional two-level qubit states to high-dimensional quantum states by exploiting the spatial dimension of photons. By applying phase modulation across different spatial regions of a single photon wavefunction, the system creates superposition states across multiple spatial dimensions, thereby increasing the information capacity from 1 bit per qubit to log2(d) bits per photon where d is the dimensionality.
2Loss of information
If multidimensional quantum states are generated using multiple photons, then information capacity increases, but the complexity and resource requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple spatial modes into a single photon wavefunction, creating a high-dimensional quantum state within one photon. Instead of using multiple separate photons to achieve the same information capacity, the system combines spatial encoding dimensions (e.g., position, momentum, or orbital angular momentum) within a single photon, thereby reducing the quantity of photons required while maintaining high information capacity.
3Measurement precision
If spatial light modulator resolution is increased, then multidimensional quantum state precision improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spatial light modulator that can perform multiple functions: it acts as a phase modulator, a spatial encoder, and a quantum state preparer. The SLM is programmed with phase patterns that simultaneously define multiple spatial regions and assign quantum phases to each region, enabling a single device to control the entire multidimensional quantum state generation process without requiring additional specialized components.
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 approach enables the generation of high-dimensional quantum states with improved information capacity and control, enhancing quantum computing and communication capabilities by allowing arbitrary superposition of photon states.
Implementation Method 1
generate a multidimensional quantum state by space division multiplexing a state of the single photon through phase modulation of a spatial light modulator (SLM)
Implementation Method 2
generate a pair of signal and idler photons in the atomic vapor cell
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method of generating a multidimensional quantum state through space division multiplexing of a single photon. The multidimensional quantum state generation apparatus includes a photon generator configured to generate a single photon, and a multidimensional quantum state generator configured to generate a multidimensional quantum state by space division multiplexing a state of the single photon through phase modulation of a spatial light modulator (SLM).