Exploring Quantum Sensing Potential for Systems Applications

Abstract

The current rise of quantum technology is compelled by quantum sensing research. Thousands of research labs are developing and testing a broad range of sensor prototypes. However, there is a lack of knowledge about specific applications and real-world use cases where the benefits of these sensors will be most pronounced. This study presents a comprehensive review of quantum sensing state-of-practice. It also provides a detailed analysis of how quantum sensing overcomes the existing limitations of sensordriven systems' precision and performance. Based on the review of over 500 quantum sensor prototype reports, we determined four groups of quantum sensors and discussed their readiness for commercial usage. We concluded that quantum magnetometry and quantum optics are the most advanced sensing technologies with empirically proven results. In turn, quantum timing and kinetics are still in the early stages of practical validation. In addition, we defined four systems domains in which quantum sensors offer a solution for existing limitations of conventional sensing technologies. These domains are 1) GPS-free positioning and navigating services, 2) time-based operations, 3) topological visibility, and 4) environment detection, prediction, and modeling. Finally, we discussed the current constraints of quantum sensing technologies and offered directions for future research.

Sensors in Civil Engineering: From Existing Gaps to Quantum Opportunities

“…These sensors can detect and measure gases at ultra-low concentrations, thus providing more accurate information on indoor air quality and pollutants. Finally, the recent developments in the field of quantum imaging, including 3D quantum cameras, behind-the-corner cameras, low-brightness imaging, and quantum laser imaging, can overcome multiple limitations of conventional occupancy and light sensors [4]. Quantum imaging enables unprecedented accuracy and responsiveness in monitoring occupancy and light levels within buildings, thus ensuring better control and optimization of lighting systems for energy efficiency.…”

“…This study aims to understand how quantum sensors might assist in addressing the challenges of the civil infrastructures of future cities. Quantum sensors use quantum phenomena to achieve high precision and accuracy in detecting various physical quantities [4,5]. These phenomena, including superposition, tunneling, and entanglement, are based on fundamental principles in quantum physics.…”

“…This property is exploited to enhance measurement sensitivity and accuracy beyond what classical sensors can achieve. Entangled particles in quantum sensors can detect subtle changes in physical environments, making them highly effective for applications such as gravitational field detection or magnetic field measurement [4,5,[7][8][9][10]. Another critical property of quantum sensors is coherence-the ability of a quantum system to maintain its state over time [11].…”

“…The narrative review is particularly useful for provoking scholarly dialogue [12] and developing a vision for new technology [13,14]. Since quantum sensing applications in real-world use cases are still very limited [4], and there is not yet enough literature about the practical application of quantum sensing for civil infrastructures, the outcomes of this review may serve as a ground base for initiating both academic and practitioners' discussions and raising additional perspectives. The conceptual framework used in this review is based on the consensual foundational constructs of civil engineering infrastructures presented in section two.…”

Quantum Sensing for the Cities of the Future

“…Nevertheless, though permanent improvements in the existing sensors, the traditional technologies, mainly binary computational paradigms, will be inherently limited in their capabilities (Mishra et al, 2022;Puliafito et al, 2021;Pundir et al, 2022). Based on some fundamental concepts of quantum physics, a quantum sensor offers exceptional accuracy, sensitivity as well as robustness that all the classical sensors are never able to attain (Kantsepolsky, et al, 2023;Kop, et al, 2023). The objective of this research is to realize how quantum sensors can help solve the infrastructural problems of the city of the future to provide detailed forecasting, situational awareness, and informed management processes.…”