KAWASAKI, Japan, Oct 13, 2020 - (JCN Newswire) - Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd. today announced the launch of three
collaborative research projects with world-leading research institutions: one with RIKEN and the University of Tokyo,
another with Osaka University, and the other with the Delft University of Technology, in the Netherlands (hereafter, TU
Delft). To make practical quantum computing a reality, Fujitsu will conduct research on a number of the associated
technology layers, from the device level to control systems, architecture and algorithms. Through this collaborative
research, Fujitsu aims to achieve comprehensive and efficient advances in quantum computing. By applying quantum
computing to various fields currently facing problems that are extremely difficult to solve, Fujitsu aims to provide
even greater value to customers and contribute to a sustainable society going forward.Figure: Technological Layers of Quantum Computing and Areas of Collaboration
Background and Issues
Unlike conventional computers, which perform calculations based on values of either 0 or 1 represented as bits, the
smallest unit of information, quantum computers can perform many parallel calculations at high speed by using qubits
that can simultaneously handle both 0 and 1 states. Nevertheless, even systems using superconducting chips, which are
leading the way in quantum computing, remain limited to about 50-qubit systems, making it difficult for them to perform
useful calculations. In order to improve performance, various technological improvements are required at the hardware
level; this includes such measures as augmenting the number of quantum bits, increasing the time that quantum bit
information is held (coherent time), and improving control systems. In addition, experts anticipate technological
innovations in the software field, including the development of algorithms that can make useful calculations even in a
short coherent time.
Outline of the Joint Research
In order to make quantum computing more practical, Fujitsu will embark on new joint research initiatives with leading
global research institutions, while strengthening medium- and long-term research efforts across all technological layers
of quantum computing. By developing the technologies fostered through this collaborative research, Fujitsu aims to
commercialize fault-tolerant quantum computing solutions in the future.
1. Research project with RIKEN and the University of Tokyo
Fujitsu will conduct research on superconducting quantum computers, which are currently regarded as the most promising
type, with RIKEN and the University of Tokyo, both of which have strengths in superconducting qubit technology. Through
a comprehensive undertaking of quantum computing systems covering quantum devices, and electronic control units and
software, Fujitsu aims to bring about computer systems that can work in a complementarily fashion with conventional
computers.
2. Research project with TU Delft
Fujitsu will conduct fundamental research and development of quantum computers using diamond-based spin qubits with TU
Delft, which has strengths in such qubit technology. Such qubits are formed at defects, which can be created by
introducing impurity atoms into diamond. A diamond NV center(1) is an example of the defects. This method, where the
qubit state can be accessed by light, may be suitable for achieving a large-scale system. This is due to the fact that
gate-operations between distant qubits avoid cross-talk noise from other qubits, and the size of refrigeration units for
cooling qubits is expected to be small because the quantum states of diamond-based spin qubits can be stable at higher
temperatures than most competing platforms. In addition to the development of devices and control systems, the
possibility of novel error-correction codes using a new qubit coupling topology will also be explored. The research will
be conducted at QuTech, a leading Quantum Technology institute and cooperation of TU Delft and TNO (the Netherlands
organization for applied scientific research).
3. Research project with Osaka University
Research and development of quantum algorithms will be conducted with the Graduate School of Engineering Science at
Osaka University, which is strong in the theoretical field of quantum computing. In addition to algorithms for
applications, Fujitsu will conduct research on error-correction technologies needed to achieve fault-tolerant quantum
computing.
In addition to these R & D activities, Fujitsu also began collaborative research on quantum algorithms using error suppression technologies with
Quantum Benchmark(2) in April 2020, with the aim of developing useful applications on small-scale quantum computers.
Future Plans
Fujitsu will work with these research institutions and others to promote research for achieving practical quantum
computing over the medium to long term. The focus will be on solving societal problems by applying quantum computing to
the fields of drug discovery, materials, and finance, as well as in various application fields with challenges that are
difficult to solve with conventional computers.
(1) diamond NV (Nitrogen-Vacancy) center A defect consisting of a vacancy in the diamond lattice next to a nitrogen
atom, where a carbon atom is typically found.
(2) Error suppression technologies with Quantum Benchmark "Fujitsu Laboratories and Quantum Benchmark Begin Joint
Research on Algorithms with Error Suppression for Quantum Computing" (Press Release issued March 25, 2020) (https://bit.ly/3dkFXYx)About Fujitsu Ltd
Fujitsu is the leading Japanese information and communication technology (ICT) company offering a full range of
technology products, solutions and services. Approximately 130,000 Fujitsu people support customers in more than 100
countries. We use our experience and the power of ICT to shape the future of society with our customers. Fujitsu Limited
(TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.9 trillion yen (US$35 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020.
For more information, please see www.fujitsu.com.