IBM Quantum Computer

Quantum computing is a rapidly-emerging technology that harnesses the laws of quantum mechanics to solve problems too complex for classical computers. The advantage of quantum computers lies in their ability to tackle incredibly complex tasks that would take a normal computer millions of years. As a result, Quantum technologies are expected to impact many aspects of our society, including health care, financial services, defense, weather modelling, and cyber security.

 

A quantum hardware system consists of a cooling system to keep the superconducting processor stable at its ultra-cold operational temperature that are hundreds of times colder than interstellar space; and microwave electronics to fire microwave photons at Josephson junction quantum bits (or qubits) in order to control their behaviour and get them to hold, change, and read out individual units of quantum information.

 

This detailed, realistic 403-pieces ‘IBM Q Quantum Computer System’ LEGO set has a scale of 1:18, and measures 11.2 (w) x 16.0 (l) x 17.1 (h) cm, or 4.4 (w) x 6.3 (l) x 6.7(h) inches. From the base, it features a raised server floor with ventilation grids providing open space for wiring and cooling. Above it is a light-blue IBM 42U server cabinet of microwave electronics & a Cryomech PT415-RM cryocooler with remote motor and two water-cooled CPA1110 helium compressor packages with a grey cylinder in the middle. In the center is a tall Bluefors XLD-4K Cryostat support frame suspending a golden dilution refrigerator with an IBM 433-qubits Osprey quantum processor at the bottom. One half is exposed to display the insides, while the other half is enclosed with a cover. The cover could be printed with the 'IBM Q' logo.

 

The IBM Quantum Computer is built to take quantum computing out of the lab and into a commercial environment. Kids and adults alike can use this LEGO set to discover and learn about the composition of a Quantum Computer system while recreating a slice of a real-life Quantum computer data center used by quantum computing users in industry, academia, research and national labs. Just like the IBM facility in Poughkeepsie, New York, that is the home of the world’s largest fleet of quantum computers.

 

I believe this would make a great LEGO set because of its displayability and educational value. It is a 360° displayable model with four highly detailed facades delivering a rewarding building experience to all those with an interest in quantum computer systems. It can be a virtual on-site accompaniment for quantum computing users building cloud-based IBM Qiskit quantum applications and experiments on remote quantum hardware or simulators. It’s realistic and accurate details with descriptive building instructions can gently introduce and familiarize the builders with intricate parts of a Quantum Computer system much like the way a LEGO Technic Motorcycle/Helicopter set can bring the builder deeply immersed into those vehicles.