Quantum Solutions for CFD: Oxford Ionics and Quanscient join forces to apply quantum computing to fluid dynamics.
Aerospace Industry Input: Airbus offers end-user perspectives for practical applications in aerodynamics.
Scalable Quantum Technology: Oxford Ionics uses ‘Electronic Qubit Control’ for adaptable quantum performance.
Oxford Ionics, recognized for its trapped-ion quantum computing systems, announced working together with Quanscient, a provider of multiphysics simulation software, and Airbus, an aerospace manufacturer, to develop quantum simulations for computational fluid dynamics (CFD).
CFD involves simulating and predicting fluid movement. In aerospace, it helps determine aircraft performance metrics such as lift, drag, noise, structural load capacity, and fuel efficiency. Current CFD methods rely on high-performance computing resources, and applying quantum computing may reduce computation time and cost while increasing overall accuracy.
As part of the UK’s National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC)’s SparQ programme, Oxford Ionics will integrate its quantum computers with Quanscient’s CFD algorithms to outline a workable roadmap for practical simulations on quantum hardware. The effort examines simulations for airfoil designs and vehicle aerodynamics, with Airbus providing direct end-user input. Although multiple entities explore quantum algorithms for CFD, existing hardware does not yet meet the performance requirements for commercially valuable scenarios. Oxford Ionics has shown a path toward hardware capable of handling real-world demands.
The company applies a patented ‘Electronic Qubit Control’ technique that uses electronics instead of lasers to manage qubits. This method allows integration of quantum systems onto a compact electronic chip produced in standard semiconductor facilities, resulting in extensive scalability. Oxford Ionics holds world records in single-qubit gate fidelity, two-qubit gate fidelity, and quantum state preparation and measurement (SPAM).
"Powerful quantum computers are poised to radically transform how we approach complex computational challenges like CFD – the question is no longer if, but when, we’ll see this value unlocked. We are thrilled to be working with Quanscient and Airbus to take fundamental steps towards making this future a reality. Through our partnership together, we look forward to identifying truly groundbreaking solutions to some of the hardest challenges facing the aerospace industry today."
— Dr Chris Ballance, Oxford Ionics co-founder and CEO
Oxford Ionics was co-founded in 2019 by Dr Tom Harty and Dr Chris Ballance. Its team of 60 global experts spans physics, quantum architecture, engineering, and software, with plans to expand staffing as it grows internationally. To date, Oxford Ionics has raised £37 million from investors including Braavos, OSE, Lansdowne Partners, Prosus Ventures, 2xN, and Hermann Hauser (founder of ARM). In 2024, Oxford Ionics commercialised its technology, supplying full-stack quantum computers to the UK’s NQCC and Germany’s Cyberagentur.