Embracing the Quantum Economy 2024

Use cases covered in automotives, aerospace and transportation (continued) A.1.6 Traffic flow optimization99Volkswagen uses D-Wave’s quantum annealing technology to optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion in urban areas. By leveraging quantum computing, Volkswagen could analyse vast amounts of traffic data in real time to identify patterns and predict traffic conditions. This enables the development of optimized traffic management strategies, such as dynamic traffic light control and route optimization for vehicles. The result is smoother traffic flow, reduced travel times, lower emissions and an overall improvement in urban mobility and quality of life for city residents. Supply chain optimization (BMW and Entropica Labs)100BMW has teamed up with Entropica Labs to use the Honeywell System Model H1 quantum computer. The aim of the undertaking is to examine supply chains and logistics for BMW. Earth observation satellites scheduling optimization101Artificial Brain worked on a quantum annealing algorithm to optimize real-time scheduling for multiple earth observation satellites. The algorithm could lead to solutions in the integration of EU space data with cutting-edge technologies like AI and quantum computing. Quantum sensing Navigation and environmental monitoring102Lockheed Martin uses quantum magnetometers for high-precision navigation and environmental monitoring in aerospace applications. By providing precise magnetic field measurements, quantum magnetometers improve the accuracy of navigation systems, ensuring safe and efficient operation of aerospace vehicles. They can monitor variations in the Earth’s magnetic field caused by solar activity and space weather events. This information is crucial for predicting and mitigating the effects of space weather on satellites, communication systems and other aerospace infrastructure. Ultra-high accuracy automatic ground test equipment for rockets (Ariane Group and ID Quantique)103Rockets of European Space Agency’s Ariane Group had been facing issues with conventional electro-pyrotechnics (devices that use electricity to provide ignition), and they were migrating to opto-pyrotechnics (devices that use lasers to provide ignition). ID Quantique teams used SNSPD (superconducting nanowire single-photon detector) to develop a dedicated fibre-optic integrity monitoring system of the opto-pyrotechnics used for the control of key phases of rocket launch. Precise measurements in navigation and geophysical surveys (Boeing and AOSense; NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center and AOSense; NASA’s Cold Lab Atom)104Atom interferometry is a technique that can precisely measure gravity, magnetic fields and other forces.105 Boeing and AOSense have used atom interferometry and successfully completed a four-hour test flight for navigation in real time without using GPS. NASA also partnered with AOSense using atom interferometry for precise measurements in aircraft navigation and geophysical surveys. Another team of NASA at Cold Lab Atom used this technique at the International Space Station (ISS) in a micro-gravity environment that allows for more precise testing than on Earth. Navigation in GPS- denied environments (USAF and SandboxAQ)106Quantum magnetometers can harness the Earth’s crustal magnetic field to provide reliable navigation with no need for satellites or communications. This ensures safe and accurate navigation in environments where GPS may be compromised. The US Air Force is conducting real-time demonstrations of the systems. Precise timekeeping107Quantum clocks developed by the United Kingdom’s National Physical Laboratory (NPL) can be used for ultra-precise timekeeping in aircraft systems. These quantum clocks provide unparalleled accuracy in time measurement, ensuring that all aircraft systems are perfectly synchronized. This precise timekeeping is crucial for navigation, communication and coordination of various onboard systems, leading to enhanced safety, efficiency and performance of aircraft operations. The collaboration between Rolls-Royce and NPL leverages cutting-edge quantum technology to push the boundaries of aviation innovation. Quantum communication and security Quantum-secure internal data communication channelsPQC involves cryptographic algorithms that are resistant to attacks from quantum computers, ensuring long-term security of data. QKD, on the other hand, uses the principles of quantum mechanics to securely distribute encryption keys, providing an additional layer of security. Modern vehicles, especially connected and autonomous vehicles, rely heavily on data communication for various functions such as navigation, diagnostics and infotainment. In the aerospace industry, secure communication is critical for the operation of aircraft. Transportation systems, including railways, shipping and public transit, rely on secure communication for coordination and management. By integrating PQC and QKD in communication systems of connected vehicles, aircraft communication systems and transportation infrastructure, sensitive data can be protected, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality. Embracing the Quantum Economy: A Pathway for Business Leaders 55