At QCI Next, we are building on our most successful hardware, software and app projects and scaling them up to make a real impact. The first Next projects are now underway, with more to follow.
HAPEQS
Hardware adaptation of PDE quantum solvers
Partial differential equations, a mathematical construct, have a virtually infinite range of applications in research and industry. And quantum computers are better at solving them than classical computers. That is why, as part of the Next project HAPEQS, we are not only developing a hardware-close quantum solver for PDEs for a neutral-atom quantum computer, but are also providing three industry- and research-relevant use cases in fluid dynamics simulation, battery cell materials research and climate modelling. This brings together quantum computing power, algorithms and use cases in a full-stack package for direct, practical benefit.
Q2Fly
Quantum effects and polarons in fuel cells
On the path to sustainable aviation, there is a technological gap: there is a lack of powerful methods for efficiently simulating charge transport mechanisms and catalytic processes in fuel cells under realistic operating conditions, and for using these simulations to identify suitable materials. Q2Fly combines hardware-optimised quantum simulation with AI-supported quantum optimisation, thereby laying the foundations for systematic, faster and resource-efficient material development for long-lasting, high-performance fuel cells in aviation.
HyQCuP
Hybrid Quantum Computing Programme
The Attraqt’em and QMPC projects have produced promising hybrid quantum/classical optimisation algorithms. With HyQCuP, we are making these industry-relevant tools available within a platform-independent framework. The project bridges this gap by integrating them as Python modules into the QCI Connect SDK. In doing so, HyQCuP simplifies their use for the DLR QCI community and industry, enables reproducible benchmarking and lays the foundation for scalable, industrial quantum optimisation applications.
FÖNIQS
Technologies for solid-state nanoscale quantum systems
Quantum computers based on NV centres have many advantages – and one major drawback: they cannot yet be scaled successfully. Conventional manufacturing methods are simply not precise enough to position the NV centres close enough to one another and in the correct orientation within the diamond. Drawing on the knowledge (and IP) from the predecessor project StarQ, alongside proprietary processes and innovative infrastructure, FÖNIQS aims to demonstrate successful coupling and scaling, thereby overcoming the scaling barrier.
BASIQ Transfer
Simulation of battery materials using quantum computers
There is a key problem in the development of battery materials: conventional simulation methods are often unable to accurately model the complex processes within battery cells. Quantum computers offer a theoretical advantage in this regard. BASIQ Transfer bridges the gap between theoretical quantum advantage and practical application with scalable quantum algorithms for dynamic processes and strongly correlated systems. This should make it possible in future to predict the material properties of batteries with precision, thereby accelerating the development of safer, higher-performance batteries and, in turn, driving forward the energy transition.
