SQUID-Based Coupling for Superconducting Qubits

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current quantum computing technologies face challenges in controlling the coupling between superconducting information devices, particularly in adjusting the strength or sign of the coupling and shutting it off, which is essential for efficient quantum computation.

Innovation Solution

The development of a dual coupling scheme using inductively coupled SQUIDs, where each coupling element has a dimensionless inductance between 0.5 and 2, allowing for controllable switching between ferromagnetic and anti-ferromagnetic coupling, and the ability to toggle between coupled and uncoupled states.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If inductive coupling between superconducting information devices is used, then quantum entanglement and computation are enabled, but control over coupling strength and sign becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling controlVSAvoidcoupling architecture
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A SQUID-based coupling device is introduced as an intermediary between two superconducting information devices. The SQUID contains a tunable Josephson junction that mediates the inductive coupling, allowing external control of coupling strength and sign through flux biasing while maintaining a relatively simple overall architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling strength and sign are controlled by changing the flux bias parameter applied to the SQUID. By adjusting the external magnetic flux through the SQUID loop, the effective inductance and coupling characteristics can be continuously tuned, enabling dynamic control without structural modification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If coupling between information devices is maintained for quantum computation, then quantum effects are preserved, but decoherence increases over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoherence timeVSAvoidcoupling duration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling between information devices is made dynamic rather than static. The SQUID-based coupler can be tuned in real-time to switch between coupled and uncoupled states, allowing the system to maintain coupling only when computation is needed and reduce coupling to minimize decoherence during idle periods or measurement phases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling is applied periodically or intermittently rather than continuously. The system can toggle coupling on during computation operations and off during other phases, reducing cumulative decoherence effects while maintaining computational functionality when required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple coupling elements are used to control coupling sign, then ferromagnetic and anti-ferromagnetic coupling are achievable, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling sign controlVSAvoidnumber of coupling elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The SQUID-based coupling device performs multiple functions using a single integrated structure. It can provide both ferromagnetic and anti-ferromagnetic coupling, enable continuous tuning of coupling strength, and function as a quantum non-demolition measurement device, eliminating the need for separate coupling elements for each function.

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

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 flexible and precise control over the coupling between superconducting information devices, enhancing the scalability and efficiency of quantum computing by allowing for tunable coupling strengths and signs, thereby improving coherence times and reducing decoherence.

Implementation Method 1

The first coupling element inductively couples the first lobe of the first flux device to the first lobe of the second flux device. The second coupling element inductively couples the first lobe of the first flux device to the second lobe of the second flux device.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInductive coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The first and second coupling elements each have a dimensionless inductance that is between 0.5 and 2. In some embodiments, the first coupling element, the second coupling element, or both the first and second coupling elements comprise a dc-SQUID. In some embodiments, the first coupling element, the second coupling element, or both the first and second coupling elements comprise an rf-SQUID.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJosephson effect: Josephson Effect

Data Source

PatentUS7619437B2Coupling methods and architectures for information processing
Publication Date: 2009.11.17 D WAVE SYSTEMS INC
  • US7619437B2 patent drawing
  • US7619437B2 patent drawing
  • US7619437B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A structure comprising (i) a first information device, (ii) a second information device, (iii) a first coupling element and (iv) a second coupling element is provided. The first information device has at least a first lobe and a second lobe that are in electrical communication with each other. The second information device and has at least a first lobe and a second lobe that are in electrical communication with each other. The first coupling element inductively couples the first lobe of the first information device to the first lobe of the second information device. The second coupling element inductively couples the first lobe of the first information device to the second lobe of the second information device.