Oxford Ionics, Quanscient and Airbus to develop quantum computing aerospace applications
Trapped-ion quantum computing specialist Oxford Ionics has announced a partnership with Multiphysics simulation software developer Quanscient and aerospace manufacturer Airbus to develop quantum simulations for computational fluid dynamics (CFD).
CFD is a branch of fluid mechanics where computers analyse and predict how fluids move. Within aerospace, CFD is used to predict the performance of aircraft in terms of lift, drag, noise, structural load capacity and fuel efficiency, among other things.
Reliant on high-performance computers to perform large-scale and intensive computations, CFD’s effectiveness could be significantly improved by quantum computing. Sophisticated quantum algorithms running on powerful quantum computers could improve the accuracy of CFD, while significantly reducing computation time and cost. While this area has caught the interest of several organisations, however, current quantum computing hardware lacks the power and scale to deliver use cases that are commercially viable.
“Powerful quantum computers are poised to radically transform how we approach complex computational challenges like CFD,” said Dr Chris Balance, co-founder and CEO of Oxford Ionics. “The question is no longer if, but when, we’ll see this value unlocked.”
The new partnership has been born out of the UK’s National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC)’s SparQ programme, which aims to discover new quantum applications.
During the project, Oxford Ionics will combine its quantum computers with Quanscient’s CFD algorithms to provide a so-called roadmap toward useful CFD simulations on quantum hardware. The companies will focus on specific quantum simulations for airfoil designs and vehicle aerodynamics. Meanwhile, Airbus’ role will involve providing critical end-user feedback.
“We are thrilled to be working with Quanscient and Airbus to take fundamental steps towards making this future a reality,” Balance added. “Through our partnership together, we look forward to identifying truly groundbreaking solutions to some of the hardest challenges facing the aerospace industry today.”
According to Oxford Ionics, the company has ‘uniquely’ demonstrated a path towards delivering the first machines with the performance and scalability required to suit real-world use cases for quantum CFD. Its patented Electronic Qubit Control technology employs electronics – rather than lasers – to control its qubits. This enables the technology to be integrated onto a thumbnail-sized electronic chip manufactured in standard semiconductor fabrications, which the firm says unlocks ‘unparalleled scalability’ and has delivered the highest performing quantum platform in the world.
Earlier this year, Oxford Ionics reportedly set new world records in single-qubit gate fidelity, two-qubit gate fidelity, and quantum state preparation and measurement (SPAM).