FIT4Q: Fiber array Innovation Technology for Quantum photonics
A project funded through the European Trilateral Collaboration on Quantum Innovation.
Goal: The project aims to realize a scalable quantum computing architecture capable of assisting a high number of quantum nodes with optimal optical quantum computing efficiency. The focus is on substantially enhancing fiber-to-chip coupling for an existing photonic quantum processor from QuiX Quantum. The basis for this will be the MicroAlign high-accuracy fiber arrays. Automation of packaging equipment provided by Aixemtec, and assembly and fixation procedures investigated by IZM and Photonics Foundries will be developed to maximize the benefit of the higher accuracy fiber arrays.
Partners:
Quantum Delta is financed by the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate, and VDI is financed by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research.
QuiX Quantum (NL)is a global leader in quantum computing, a deep-tech scale-up. The results from this project and QuiX’s core IP (TriPleX®) make QuiX’s photonic quantum computing technology superior due to its low losses, which will be the most important element of being able to create a scalable and affordable universal quantum computer.
MicroAlign (NL) was founded in 2021 as a spin-out of the Eindhoven University of Technology. This project will prove the technology for making high-accuracy fiber arrays, scalable, and their production, in the most demanding market. The project will boost the (automated) production capability for high-accuracy fiber arrays.
Fraunhofer IZM (D) is part of the non-profit Fraunhofer Society and photonic packaging leader in Germany and Europe. Fit4Q will allow us to bring the proposed assembly process to an advanced level of automation. In this way, IZM will increase its expertise in the development of assembly technologies using glass platform and applications related to quantum technologies, which would increase its chances of being ranked as a reputable German institute ranking in the current quantum world.
Aixemtec GmbH (D) aims to provide companies and research initiatives with means to automate packaging of their photonic devices via high-quality, flexible assembly machines. Aixemtec is especially excited to develop an improved fiber array and associated market as well as expand the network of automation support for the European photonics industry through establishing a partnership with Photonics Foundry.
Photonics Foundry (D) is a young company, founded in July 2023. As photonic device and MEMS-contract packager, Photonics Foundry will lead the design for automation activities in the project, as well as the automation process implementations and optimizations for the high-accuracy-fiber-arrays assembly and chip packaging, contributing to the integration of the final project demonstrators.
Sponsors:
Quantum Delta (NL) is well-positioned to contribute to a historic opportunity in quantum by accelerating quantum technology developments in the Netherlands and establishing a collaborative ecosystem that fosters international collaborations with the world’s top scientific institutions, businesses, students, and professionals.
VDI Technologiezentrum GmbH (D) is a leading German innovation agency that supports clients from federal ministries, state governments, and the European Commission in successfully tackling future challenges. VDI TZ focuses on cutting-edge future technologies, including quantum technologies, to drive progress and deliver impact across Europe and beyond.
Learn more about the project:
About the Trilateral Programme with France and Germany: https://quantumdelta.nl/trilateral-programme-with-france-and-germany
Explore the Cross-Border Projects for Europe: https://www.quantumwithoutborders.org/cross-border-projects-for-europe
