Optimization of two-dimensional ion trap arrays for quantum simulation

Abstract

The optimization of two-dimensional (2D) lattice ion trap geometries for trapped ion quantum simulation is investigated. The geometry is optimized for the highest ratio of ion-ion interaction rate to decoherence rate. To calculate the electric field of such array geometries a numerical simulation based on a 'Biot-Savart like law' method is used. In this article we will focus on square, hexagonal and centre rectangular lattices for optimization. A method for maximizing the homogeneity of trapping site properties over an array is presented for arrays of a range of sizes. We show how both the polygon radii and separations scale to optimize the ratio between the interaction and decoherence rate. The optimal polygon radius and separation for a 2D lattice is found to be a function of the ratio between radio-frequency (rf) voltage and drive frequency applied to the array. We then provide a case study for 171 Yb + ions to show how a 2D quantum simulator array could be designed.

Versatile ytterbium ion trap experiment for operation of scalable ion-trap chips with motional heating and transition-frequency measurements

“…NP-541), and passed through a resonator [72,73], which is then attached to the power feedthrough. The resonator design specifications are detailed in Table I and, when loaded with the trap, has a quality factor Q = 200 (20) and geometric factor κ = 24 (8), defined by V = κ √ PQ, where V is the rf voltage applied to the electrodes, P the power applied to the electrodes, and Q the quality factor of the resonator [73]. Impedance matching is achieved by measuring the percentage of reflected power to applied power using a directional power meter (Rhode and Schwarz; part no.…”

Focus on quantum simulation

“…• Siverns et al [14] and Moehring et al [25] describe how further optimization of surface ion trap technology will propel this field of research, where the implementations of the proposals of [18,26] already rely on this development. In [25], the authors from Sandia National Laboratories demonstrate their design, fabrication and experimental implementation of micro-fabricated radio-frequency (rf) surface electrode traps, as depicted in figure 1.…”

“…However, benefiting from the identical fabrication techniques, arrays of individually trapped ions will allow to span a (direct) 2D quantum simulation (see right part of figure 1). In [14], the authors present an optimization process to potentially reduce the technological efforts based on a single rf-electrode, however, providing an optimal lattice geometry for maximizing the ratio of coupling strength between the ions and the motional heating rates causing decoherence.…”

Guidelines for Designing Surface Ion Traps Using the Boundary Element Method

“…Nizamani and Hensinger presented a geometric factor in the electrode dimensions that provides the maximum trap depth when the ion height is determined [ 22 ]. Siverns et al presented the relation between ion height and secular frequency in numerically simulated five-rail geometries [ 23 ]. Doret et al proposed an iterative BEM method for designing radio frequency (RF) electrodes of a complex shape that compensates for the distortion of the RF pseudopotential near the backside loading slot [ 24 ].…”