Quantum leap in computational fluid dynamics could usher in a new era of aviation efficiency
In a landmark collaboration, NVIDIA, Rolls-Royce, and Classiq have announced a quantum computing breakthrough that could revolutionize the design and efficiency of jet engines. The partnership seeks to leverage the power of quantum computing to create computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, potentially leading to unprecedented advances in aerospace design and sustainability.
“NVIDIA’s quantum computing platform gives Rolls-Royce a potential path to tackle these problems head-on while accelerating its research and future development of more efficient jet engines.”
Ian Buck, vice president of hyperscale and HPC at NVIDIA
Quantum-enabled jet engine design
The collaboration has resulted in the world’s largest quantum computing circuit for CFD, a critical tool for modeling the performance of jet engine designs. This 10 million-layer-deep, 39 qubit circuit, simulated on NVIDIA’s quantum computing platform, enables Rolls-Royce to prepare for a future where quantum computing plays a critical role in jet engine design and efficiency.
Quantum-classic hybrid for sustainable aviation
Rolls-Royce, a leading force in aviation, intends to harness this new circuit in its pursuit of quantum advantage in CFD, integrating both classical and quantum computing methods. The ultimate goal is the development of advanced, energy-efficient jet engines to support the transition towards more sustainable aviation.
Powered by NVIDIA Grace Hopper Superchip
The collaboration’s ground-breaking work is powered by NVIDIA’s Grace Hopper Superchip, optimally designed for giant-scale quantum simulation workloads. Its high-speed, low-latency interconnect makes it an ideal candidate to link to quantum processors (QPUs), making larger-scale simulations a reality.
Strategic bridge to the quantum future
NVIDIA’s quantum technology plays a pivotal role in the transition to quantum computing. It powers DGX™ Quantum, the world’s first GPU-accelerated quantum computing system, providing a strategic bridge to the quantum future.
Charting a sustainable quantum future in aerospace
The NVIDIA, Rolls-Royce, and Classiq collaboration signifies an encouraging step toward a more sustainable and efficient future for the aviation industry. The use of quantum computing in jet engine design can have a transformative impact on reducing carbon emissions, thus contributing significantly to global climate change mitigation. Moreover, the exploration of quantum-classical hybrid models opens up fresh avenues for technological innovation that could extend beyond aerospace, influencing several other sectors. As such, these quantum advancements promise to play a critical role in shaping a more sustainable, efficient, and technologically advanced future.
