Quantum Computing Applications

Quantum computers promise great progress in solving complex problems such as searching in large data sets or optimizing tasks with many constraints. They are expected to provide advantages in both a higher quality solution and a reduced runtime. So that the industry can use these advances in applications relevant to the market, research is focusing on reformulating the respective issues in parallel to the hardware development of quantum computers. Different ways of formulating the issues are necessary depending on what kind of quantum computer platform is used.

At Fraunhofer ILT, a team of scientists is tackling this very challenge. They are transforming issues from manufacturing technology into individual issues in order to calculate them on different quantum computer platforms. From these pilot applications, the potential for the respective application area can be evaluated and then used to develop the subject area further. By comparing the respective problem with the quantum computer platforms, they can create an outlook for applying quantum computers innovatively.

Pilot applications on simulation platforms or real quantum computers (D-Wave, IBM Q) are constantly being run on the basis of current software libraries. Thus, the pilot project constantly remains at the state of the art. In cooperation with the Forschungszentrum Jülich, Fraunhofer ILT is also developing individual algorithms tailored to the platforms previously identified as particularly suitable. Thus, not only is their technical feasibility evaluated, but also the state of the art today and the state of the art on the quantum computing platform roadmap is assessed in terms of its performance.

Together with partners and customers, Fraunhofer ILT is developing individual roadmaps for using new quantum technologies – from brief overviews to pilot projects.

Simulation and optimization for process parameters and technical system design

• Optimization of optical systems for imaging and beam shaping
• Development of process and machining parameters
• Planning of processing paths
• Quality optimization of laser processes in the context of the production chain

Quantum image processing for fast analysis of large pixel sets (QIMP)

• Analysis of camera images with regard to the process flow
• Detection of image features relevant to quality
• Machine vision for the control of process parameters

AI in production engineering for prediction and analysis

• Multivariate analysis of large data sets
• Training of models on different quantum computing platforms
• Evaluation of quantum-trained process models

Our services cover a wide range of topics. Related topics to quantum computing applications and further research and development focuses can be found under the following links.