Patent ID: 12204989

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account one or more different considerations. This inability to cool quantum computing systems to a desired temperature level for operation can be caused by the heat load imposed by electronic accessories used for the operation of quantum computers. For example, the illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that prototype superconducting quantum computer systems have used standard dilution refrigeration technology to achieve the milli-kelvin temperatures needed to cool superconducting quantum devices. The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that a dilution refrigeration system is a cryogenic device that provides continuous cooling to temperatures as low as 2 mK, with no moving parts in the low-temperature region. The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that in the dilution refrigeration system, the cooling power is provided by the heat of mixing of the Helium-3 and Helium-4 isotopes. The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that these superconducting quantum devices used in quantum computer systems do not dissipate much power.

The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that control circuits are used in the quantum computer systems to control operation of the superconducting quantum devices. As the quantum computer systems increase in complexity, the illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that increased thermal loads are present. The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that these increased thermal loads can be caused by the increase in complexity in superconducting quantum devices and the wiring requirements connecting the control circuits to the superconducting quantum devices. The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that dilution refrigeration systems currently used are unable to provide sufficient cooling with these increased thermal loads.

The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that one solution involves placing the control circuits onto the supporting structure on the dilution refrigeration systems for the superconducting quantum devices. The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account the placement can reduce the size of the quantum computer system and that speed and flexibility can be increased.

The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that this placement of the control electronics increases the issue of heat. The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that in addition to the thermal loads from the cables, the control circuits are implemented using silicon and have greater heat dissipation that cannot be handled by current dilution refrigeration systems.

The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that one approach to resolve this issue involves moving the control circuits on-board the cryogenic systems. The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that this change in placement of the control circuits can be involve moving the semiconductor-based control circuits onto the supporting structure of the dilution refrigeration system. The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that a dilution refrigeration system can be a 1K platform or similar platforms, which serves to condense and cool a circulating He3-He4 mixture.

The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that this “add-on” approach of placing control electronics onto a platform designed for another purpose creates issues. The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that one issue with this approach is that the power dissipation of the semiconductor control circuits can be at the level of several watts and can exceed the cooling power of 1K platforms of the largest dilution refrigeration systems. Additionally, the illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that the vacuum environment of the 1K platform does not allow for uniform cooling of these control circuits.

The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that choosing a platform that limits operation of the superconducting circuits to 1K cooling power can be a significant self-imposed constraint of the design. For example, the illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that this operating temperature may not be optimal or necessary for the superconducting electronics. The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that the low temperature creates issues with undesirable variability in the performance of the basic transistors, where single defect levels may dominate the characteristics of individual transistors differently in the control circuits.

The illustrative embodiments also recognize and take into account that dilution refrigeration technology is a platform focused on the needs of the scientific research community and is not scalable and does not offer a fast turn-around of devices required for product validation.

As a result, the illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that current quantum computer system architecture are unable to provide optimal performance. Thus, the illustrative embodiments provide a method, apparatus, and system for cryogenic cooling that can resolve one or more of these issues. In one illustrative example, a modular cooling system comprises a payload refrigeration unit having a payload and a control refrigeration unit having a control circuit. The modular cooling system also can include a signal interface connecting the payload located in the payload refrigeration unit to the control circuit located in control refrigeration unit. In this illustrative example, a first cooling system is connected to the payload refrigeration unit during operation of the first refrigeration system and a second cooling system is connected to the control refrigeration unit during an operation of the control refrigeration unit.

With reference now to the figures in particular with reference toFIG.1, an illustration of a block diagram of a cooling environment is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this illustrative example, cooling environment100is an environment in which cooling system102can operate to cool items such as payload104and control circuit106. In this illustrative example, cooling environment100can be cryogenic cooling environment101. In this environment, temperatures can be between 2 K and 300 K.

In this illustrative example, cooling system102comprises a number of different components. As depicted, cooling system102comprises payload refrigeration unit108, control refrigeration unit110, and signal interface112.

As used herein, a “number of” when used with reference to items means one of more items. For example, a number of different components is one or more different components.

As depicted, payload refrigeration unit108can have payload104and control refrigeration unit110can have control circuit106. In other words, payload refrigeration unit108can be thermally connected to payload104and payload104be placed within payload refrigeration unit108. Control refrigeration unit110can be thermally connected to control circuit106, and control circuit106can also be placed within control refrigeration unit110.

Payload104can take a number of different forms. For example, payload104can be selected from at least one of a quantum computing circuit, a quantum computing chip, a superconducting circuit, a sensor system and a low temperature material, a superconducting material, an infra-red imaging system, a topological material with electronic properties that are distinct between a surface of the topological material and an interior of topological material and a sensor system, or some other suitable component or set of components.

As used herein, a “set of” when used with reference to items means one or more items. For example, a set of components is one or more components. In other words, payload104can be comprised of one or more components. For example, payload104can be a quantum computing circuit and a sensor system. In another example, payload104can be a quantum computing circuit, an infrared imaging system, and a carrier with connectors.

As depicted, control circuit106can be used to control the operation of components in payload104. Control circuit106can control the operation of one or more superconducting circuits that form payload104. As another illustrative example, control circuit106can receive information from a sensor system monitoring a low temperature material in payload104.

In this illustrative example, signal interface112connects control circuit106to payload104. This connection provided using signal interface112enables the communication of signals114between control circuit106and payload104. For example, signal interface112enables sending signals114from control circuit106to payload104, sending signals114from at least one of payload104or control circuit106.

In this illustrative example, signals114can take a number of different forms. For example, signals114can be selected from at least one of an electrical signal, an optical signal, or some other suitable type of signal. Signals114can encode at least one of data, commands, or other information.

As used herein, the phrase “at least one of,” when used with a list of items, means different combinations of one or more of the listed items can be used, and only one of each item in the list may be needed. In other words, “at least one of” means any combination of items and number of items may be used from the list, but not all of the items in the list are required. The item can be a particular object, a thing, or a category.

For example, without limitation, “at least one of item A, item B, or item C” may include item A, item A and item B, or item B. This example also may include item A, item B, and item C or item B and item C. Of course, any combinations of these items can be present. In some illustrative examples, “at least one of” can be, for example, without limitation, two of item A; one of item B; and ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; or other suitable combinations.

As depicted, payload refrigeration unit108and control refrigeration unit110operate independently of each other. In this illustrative example, a connection is present between first cooling system116and payload refrigeration unit108during operation of payload refrigeration unit108. A connection is present between second cooling system118and control refrigeration unit110during operation of control refrigeration unit110.

These cooling systems provide at least one of power, coolant, or other resources needed by cooling components in the refrigeration units. As depicted, when connected to payload refrigeration unit108, first cooling system116enables a set of payload cooling components142to cool payload104in payload refrigeration unit108. When connected to control refrigeration unit110, second cooling system118enables a set of control circuit cooling components144to cool control circuit106in control refrigeration unit110.

In this illustrative example, payload refrigeration unit108can control at least one of heating or cooling payload104independently of control refrigeration unit110heating or cooling control circuit106. In other words, payload refrigeration unit108can be at first temperature120while the control refrigeration unit110can be at second temperature122. For example, first temperature120in payload refrigeration unit108can be as low as 2 m mK, and second temperature122in control refrigeration unit110is in a temperature range from about 2 K to about room temperature.

In this illustrative example, cooling system102can be modular cooling system124. Additional refrigeration units can be used in addition to payload refrigeration unit108and control refrigeration unit110. For example, a set of refrigeration units126can be present. These refrigeration units can be at least one of a set of payload refrigeration units or a set of control refrigeration units.

For example, a set of refrigeration units126can have a set of corresponding payloads128. The set of corresponding payloads128located in the set of refrigeration units126can be connected to control circuit106in payload refrigeration unit108by signal interface112. This set of refrigeration units126can also be cooled by a set of cooling systems130in which each refrigeration unit in the set of refrigeration units126is connected to a separate cooling system in cooling systems130from another refrigeration unit in the set of refrigeration units126.

In this illustrative example, each corresponding payload in the set of corresponding payloads128can be connected to the set of control circuits in control refrigeration unit110by signal interface112.

In one illustrative example, signal interface112can be thermally anchored within each refrigeration unit. This thermal anchoring can reduce heat from thermally conducting between the two refrigeration units. For example, heat generated by control circuit106in control refrigeration unit110can be prevented from traveling through signal interface112to payload104and payload refrigeration unit108. For example, if signal interface112includes heat generating components, those components can be thermally anchored as the unit has sufficient cooling power. Use of a superconductor cable or similar low-thermal conductivity materials, can ensure heat generated by control circuit106does not travel through the superconducting wires or cables into payload refrigeration unit108.

In another illustrative example, the set of refrigeration units126can contain a set of additional control circuits132. The set of additional control circuits132can be connected to payload104payload refrigeration unit108.

In another illustrative example, the set of refrigeration units126can include at least one of a corresponding payload or a corresponding control circuit that can be connected to refrigeration units present in cooling system102.

In another illustrative example, cooling system102can have an additional feature that enables at least one of control circuit106or payload104to be controlled to a set of desired values133for a set of parameters134prior to introduction into a refrigeration unit.

For example, cooling system102can include loading chamber136having aperture138. Aperture138can be connected to payload refrigeration unit108. Aperture138can be opened and closed in this illustrative example.

As depicted, environment140in loading chamber136can be adjusted to a set of desired values133for a set of parameters134prior at least one of opening aperture138and moving payload104from payload refrigeration unit108into loading chamber136, opening aperture138and moving payload104from loading chamber136into payload refrigeration unit108, removing payload104from loading chamber136, or some other suitable operation with respect to payload104. In the illustrative example, the set of parameters134can be selected from at least one of a temperature, a vacuum, a pressure or other suitable parameter. The set of parameters134can be selected as parameters that have a set of desired values133that should match or be within a range or tolerance level with respect to the set of values for the same set of parameters within a refrigeration unit, such as payload refrigeration unit108.

In another illustrative example, loading chamber136can have aperture138connected to control refrigeration unit110. With this configuration, environment140in loading chamber136can be adjusted to the set of desired values133to the set parameters134prior at least one of opening aperture138and moving control circuit106from control refrigeration unit110into loading chamber136, opening aperture138and moving control circuit106from loading chamber136into control refrigeration unit110, removing control circuit106from loading chamber136, or some other suitable operation with respect to control circuit106.

With the use of loading chamber136, cooling or warming of at least one of payload refrigeration unit108and control refrigeration unit110can be avoided, enabling reducing the amount of time needed to change components such as payload104and control circuit106. As another example, a vacuum can be maintained in at least one of payload refrigeration unit108for control refrigeration unit110when introducing or removing components such as payload104and control circuit106. Loading chamber136enables reduces the time needed to components such as payload104and control circuit106. As result, testing can be performed more quickly when component changes occur.

With reference next toFIG.2, an illustration of a block diagram of a payload refrigeration unit is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this figure, an example of one implementation for payload refrigeration unit108is shown.

In this illustrative example, payload refrigeration unit108comprises payload enclosure200and the set of payload cooling components142comprises dilution cooler202.

Payload enclosure200can be any structure in which payload104can be placed. In one illustrative example, payload enclosure200is vacuumable such that vacuum204can be present within payload enclosure200when payload104is located in payload enclosure200. Vacuum204can be set in any desirable level needed for payload104.

As depicted, payload104be located on or inside of carrier205. Carrier205can take a number of forms. For example, carrier205can be a platform, a puck, a housing, or some other suitable structure for holding or supporting payload104.

In this illustrative example, dilution cooler202can cool at least one of interior206in payload enclosure200or payload104in payload enclosure200to first temperature120such as 2 mK. In one illustrative example, dilution cooler202can cool payload104when payload104is thermally connected to dilution cooler202within payload enclosure200. In this illustrative example, dilution cooler202can also be referred to as a 3He/4He dilution refrigerator in which cooling towers provided by the heat of mixing helium-3 and helium-4 isotopes.

In this illustrative example, the payload including a set of payload cooling components142can also include a set of coolers208. The set of coolers208can cool interior206. When the set of coolers208is present, the set of coolers208can be first stage cooler210. The set of coolers208can cool interior206within payload enclosure200to temperature such as 40 k or some other suitable temperature. The set of coolers208can be a set of first coolers and a set of second coolers that are selected from at least one of a pulse tube cooler, a Stirling cooler, a Gifford-McMahon (GM) cooler, a Joule-Thomson (JT) cooler, a liquid helium heat exchanger, a supercritical liquid cooler, or some other suitable type of cooling device or system.

In this example, dilution cooler202can be second stage cooler212. As second stage cooler212, dilution cooler202can cool payload104to first temperature120such as 2 mk. The use of first stage cooler210can reduce the amount of cooling power needed by dilution cooler202and second stage cooler212to cool payload104to first temperature120.

In another illustrative example, payload refrigeration unit108can comprise a set of dilution coolers214that can operate to cool at least one of payload104or a set of payloads216. When more than one payload is present in the set of payloads216, the set of payloads216can be the same type for different types of payloads.

Turning next toFIG.3, illustration of a block diagram of a control refrigerator unit is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this figure, an example of one implementation for control refrigeration unit110is shown.

In this illustrative example, control refrigeration unit110comprises control enclosure300. The set of control circuit cooling components144in control refrigeration unit110comprises set of coolers302. The set of coolers302can cool control circuit106located within control enclosure300.

In this illustrative example, the set of coolers302can be thermally connected to control circuit106. The set of coolers302can cool the set of control circuits to second temperature122such as from about 2 K two about room temperature.

As depicted, control circuit106is located in housing304. In this illustrative example, a set of control circuits are thermally connected to the set of coolers302through housing304. In other words, housing304is comprised of one or more materials that are thermally conductive.

In this illustrative example, housing304can be sealed and fluid306can be present in interior308of within housing304. For example, fluid306can be an inert gas such as helium. In another example, vacuum307can be present in housing304.

Additionally, control enclosure300is vacuumable such that vacuum310can be present within control enclosure300when control circuit106is located in control enclosure300. Vacuum310can be set in any desirable level for the operation of control circuit106.

In one illustrative example, one or more technical solutions are present that overcome a technical problem with cooling devices or components as components for quantum computer systems. As a result, one or more technical solutions can provide a technical effect of providing a desirable cooling for payload such as quantum circuits that may be tested using control circuits. For example, one or more technical solutions involved independently cooling control circuits and the payload in separate units. For example, when cooling is performed at cryogenic temperatures, the environment for the control circuits can be separated from the environment in which the quantum computing circuits are located. As result, one or more illustrative examples provide a technical solution that enables independent control access to control circuits and payloads, such as quantum computing circuits. This separation control enables increasing operational capability of a cooling system, especially cooling system that employs a cryogenic environment.

In another illustrative example, more technical solutions include using a loading chamber to reduce the time needed to change out at least one of the circuit boards.

The illustration of cooling environment100inFIG.1is not meant to imply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in which an illustrative embodiment may be implemented. Other components in addition to or in place of the ones illustrated may be used. Some components may be unnecessary. Also, the blocks are presented to illustrate some functional components. One or more of these blocks may be combined, divided, or combined and divided into different blocks when implemented in an illustrative embodiment.

For example, although cooling system102can operate to provide cryogenic cooling environment101, cooling system102can operate to provide cooling other temperature ranges. For example, when payload104in quantum computing circuit comprises room temperature superconducting materials, then payload refrigeration unit108in cooling system102can operate to cool payload104to a temperature such as, for example, 300 degrees k or less.

With reference now toFIG.4, an illustration of schematic diagram of side view of a cooling system is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Cooling system400is an example of an implementation for cooling system102inFIG.1shown in block form. In this illustrative example, cooling system400can be considered to be a modular cooling system because it comprises separate refrigeration units for different components. As depicted, cooling system400comprises payload refrigeration unit402and control refrigeration unit404.

As depicted, payload refrigeration unit402has payload enclosure406. A set of pulse tube coolers is connected to payload enclosure406. Pulse tube cooler408can be seen in this side view of cooling system400. As depicted, pulse tube cooler408extends into the interior of payload enclosure406as shown by the dashed lines for portion of pulse tube cooler408extending into the interior of payload enclosure406. Pulse tube cooler408is an example of an implementation for coolers208inFIG.2. The set of pulse tube coolers is a first stage coolers for cooling system400. These pulse tube coolers can operate to cool the interior of payload enclosure406to a first temperature. A second stage cooler can further cool the interior of enclosure to a second temperature that is lower than the first temperature in these illustrative examples.

As depicted, dilution cooler410is a second stage cooler for cooling system400. Cooling fluids for dilution cooler410can be circulated though port412, port414, and lines415.

As depicted, payload416is thermally connected to dilution cooler410. In one illustrative example, payload416is a quantum computing circuit. In other illustrative examples, payload416can include other devices in addition to or in place of a quantum computing circuit. For example, payload416can also comprise a at least one of a superconducting circuit, a material and a sensor system, a superconducting material, and infrared imaging system, or some other type of device in addition to or in place of a quantum computing circuit.

In this illustrative example, radiation shields are also present within the interior of payload enclosure406. These radiation shields operate to reduce or prevent conduction of heat or thermal energy. As depicted, first radiation shield418and second radiation shield420are present. Second radiation shield420is located inside of first radiation shield418. As depicted, dilution cooler410and payload416are located within second radiation shield420. In illustrative example, payload enclosure406can also include radiation shielding in some implementations.

In this illustrative example, payload enclosure406also has port444. This port can be used to draw a vacuum within the interior of payload enclosure406. Alternatively, port444can also be used to introduce a gas into the interior of payload enclosure406.

In this illustrative example, payload416can be introduced and removed from payload enclosure406through loading chamber422. As depicted, payload416can be moved through loading chamber422and payload enclosure406using transfer arm424.

In this illustrative example, loading chamber422has gate valve426and port428. Gate valve426controllers an aperture that can be opened and closed to separate first section430of loading chamber422and second section431of loading chamber422from each other. Second section431is in communication with payload enclosure406. As depicted, gate valve426is not directly connected to payload enclosure406.

Although gate valves are illustrated here, other types of valves with apertures that can be opened and closed can also be used. For example, ball valve with an aperture that can be opened and closed that allow for entry a payload or control circuit can be used in addition to or in place of the gate valve.

In this illustrative example, first radiation shield418can totally enclose second radiation shield420. With this type of configuration, these radiation shields can include shutters or apertures that can be opened and closed to allow for payload416to be moved by transfer arm424into first radiation shield440and subsequent into second radiation shield442.

In this illustrative example, these radiation shields can reduce radiation from reaching payload416within payload enclosure406. As result, the effects of radiation on sensitive payload, such as quantum computing circuits can be reduced. These radiation shields also provide thermal protection for components such as a control circuit in housing438and payload416. In other words, these radiation shields can provide radiation shielding and thermal insulation.

In one illustrative example, a vacuum or gas may be present within payload enclosure406. During operation, payload416can be introduced into first section430of loading chamber422using transfer arm424while gate valve426is closed. Port428in first section430of loading chamber422can be used to draw vacuum or introduce a fluid similar to that in payload enclosure406.

As a result, loading chamber422can be used to set various parameters such as temperature, pressure or vacuum, to desired values before moving payload416into payload enclosure406from first section430of loading chamber422or out of payload enclosure406into first section430of loading chamber422. These types of adjustments can reduce the time needed to change payloads in payload enclosure406.

In another illustrative example, payload416can be cooled in first section430using a fluid prior to be introduced into payload enclosure406. After the temperature of payload416has been reduced, the fluid can be removed, and a vacuum drawn prior to opening gate valve426moving payload416though second section431into payload enclosure406. As result, the temperature differential between payload416and the temperature in payload enclosure406can be reduced. A similar process can be performed by moving payload416into first section430and allowing payload416can increase in temperature while maintaining the lower temperature in payload enclosure406.

As a result, additional time for at least one of creating a vacuum, warming payload416, cooling payload416, and maintain a desired temperature in payload enclosure406can be performed without needing to change the environment within payload enclosure406.

As depicted, control refrigeration unit404includes control enclosure432. As depicted, a set of pulse tube coolers is connected to control enclosure432. Pulse tube cooler434and pulse tube cooler436can be seen in this side view of cooling system400. As depicted, pulse tube cooler434and pulse tube cooler436extend into the interior of control enclosure432. Pulse tube cooler434and pulse tube cooler436are an example of an implementation for coolers302inFIG.3.

As depicted, housing438is located within the interior of control enclosure432. Housing438contains control short-circuits (not shown). Housing438can be comprised of material that is thermally conductive to enable cooling of a control circuit within housing438. In this illustrative example, the pulse tube coolers can operate to cool the control circuits within housing438to a desired operating temperature for the control circuits.

As depicted, first radiation shield440and second radiation shield442are present within the interior of control enclosure432. Second radiation shield442is located within first radiation shield440. In this illustrative example, housing438is located within second radiation shield442.

In this illustrative example, control enclosure432has port446. Port446can be used to draw a vacuum within the interior of control enclosure432or to introduce a fluid, such as a gas, into the interior of control enclosure432.

In this illustrative example, housing438with control circuits can be introduced and removed from control enclosure432using loading chamber448. As depicted, loading chamber448has first section450and second section452. These two sections are separated by gate valve454. Gate valve454has an aperture that can be opened and closed.

Transfer arm456can be used to move housing438into and out of control enclosure432through loading chamber448. For example, housing438can be moved from loading chamber448through the aperture in gate valve454into control enclosure432using transfer arm456. Additionally, port458can be used to draw vacuum or introduce a fluid into first section.

In one illustrative example, first radiation shield440can totally enclose second radiation shield442. With this type of configuration, these radiation shields can include shutters for apertures that can be opened and closed to allow for housing438to be moved by transfer arm456into first radiation shield440and subsequently into second radiation shield442.

If a vacuum is present in control enclosure432, a vacuum can be drawn with housing438in first section450loading chamber448prior to opening aperture in gate valve454to move housing438into control enclosure432. In this manner, a vacuum does not have to be drawn for all of control enclosure432. This feature can reduce the amount of time needed to introduce or remove housing438from control enclosure432.

A similar process can be to cool housing438with a fluid prior to introducing housing438into control enclosure432. Also, housing438can be moved into first section450with the aperture in gate valve454being closed and the temperature of housing438can be increased at a desired rate in first section450without needing to increase the temperature in control enclosure432.

The closed aperture in gate valve454reduces the increase in temperature that can occur within control enclosure432. In other words, the set of coolers can continue to cool control enclosure432while the control circuit is increasing temperature in first section450while the aperture in gate valve454is closed. As result, the control circuit does not need to be warmed to a desired temperature for removal within control enclosure432.

As a result, loading chamber448can be used to set various parameters such as temperature, pressure or vacuum, to desired levels before moving housing438into control enclosure432from first section450of loading chamber448or out of control enclosure432into first section450of loading chamber448. These types of adjustments can reduce the time needed to change control circuits in payload enclosure406.

Further, the use of payload refrigeration unit402and control refrigeration unit404can reduce the amount of power needed to cool payload416. For example, when payload416in payload refrigeration unit402is cooled to lower temperature than the control circuits in housing438in control refrigeration unit404, less power can be used to provide cooling needed in payload refrigeration unit402when the control circuits in housing438in control refrigeration unit404are cooled independently of payload416. Further, this enables cooling payload416to desired temperatures that are currently not always possible when control circuits are located in the same refrigeration unit as a payload. In other words, dilution cooler410can operate more efficiently to maintain the desired temperature for payload416when control circuits are not located in payload refrigeration unit402, but in control refrigeration unit404.

Turning next toFIG.5, an illustration of schematic diagram of an exploded side view of a cooling system is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this exploded view, electronic interface460is depicted as having control circuit connector500and payload circuit connector502. In this illustrative example, control circuit connector500can be connected to control enclosure432and payload circuit connector502can be connected to payload enclosure406. Control circuit connector500can extend from control enclosure432into payload enclosure406.

These two connectors can be disconnected from each other to enable changing out at least one of payload refrigeration unit402or control refrigeration unit404with another refrigeration unit. For example, control refrigeration unit404can be disconnected from payload refrigeration unit402. Another payload refrigeration unit can be connected to control refrigeration unit404. As part of this connection, a different payload circuit connector can be connected to control circuit connector500when connecting the new payload refrigeration unit to the control refrigeration unit404.

With reference toFIG.6, an illustration of a schematic diagram of an end view of a payload refrigeration unit in a cooling system is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As depicted in this figure, payload refrigeration unit402is seen from an end view of cooling system400in the direction of lines6-6inFIG.5.

In this end view of payload refrigeration unit402, pulse tube cooler600and pulse tube cooler602can also be seen in addition to pulse tube cooler408as shown inFIG.4andFIG.5. In this figure and in other some figures, components are present but omitted from the view to avoid obscuring features and components described for the illustrative example.

For example, pulse tube cooler600is not illustrated inFIG.4andFIG.5. This component is omitted to avoid obscuring the depiction of pulse tube cooler408and thermal connection of pulse tube cooler408to first radiation shield418and second radiation shield420. Thus, illustration of pulse tube cooler600was also omitted to avoid obscuring the illustration of dilution cooler410.

As depicted, outer section604in pulse tube cooler408, outer section606in pulse tube cooler600, an outer section608in pulse tube cooler602are in contact with first radiation shield418in payload enclosure406in payload refrigeration unit402. This contact is a thermal contact in these upper sections of these pulse tube coolers and can also be referred to as a thermal connection.

Also depicted are inner section610for pulse tube cooler408, inner section612for pulse tube cooler600, and inner section614for pulse tube cooler602. These inner sections are in thermal contact with second radiation shield420.

In this illustrative example, the outer sections of the pulse tube coolers can operate to cool first radiation shield418to 40 K. The inner sections of the pulse tube coolers can operate to cool second radiation shield420to 2 K. The dilution cooler (not shown) located within second radiation shield420can cool the payload to 2 mK in this illustrative example. With the pulse tube coolers providing cooling to 40 k and 2 K, the dilution cooler can cool payload to 2 mK more easily.

Also seen in this view is opening616in second radiation shield420. A portion of electronic interface460is located and can be connected to other portions of electronic interface460through opening616.

With reference toFIG.7, an illustration of a schematic diagram of an end view of a control refrigeration unit in a cooling system is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As depicted in this figure, control refrigeration unit404is seen from an end view of cooling system400in the direction of lines7-7inFIG.5.

In this end view of payload refrigeration unit402, pulse tube cooler700and pulse tube cooler702can also be seen in addition to pulse tube cooler434and pulse tube cooler436.

In this figure, pulse tube cooler702is not seen inFIG.4andFIG.5to avoid obscuring the illustration of components such as first radiation shield440, second radiation shield442, housing438, an electronic interface460located within control enclosure432.

As depicted, outer section704in pulse tube cooler434, outer section706in pulse tube cooler436, outer section708in pulse tube cooler700, and outer section710in pulse tube cooler702are in contact with first radiation shield440in control enclosure432in control refrigeration unit404. This contact is a thermal contact in these upper sections of these pulse tube coolers. This thermal contact can also be referred to as a thermal connection.

This figure also depicts inner section712for pulse tube cooler434, inner section714for pulse tube cooler436, inner section716for pulse tube cooler700, and inner section718for pulse tube cooler702. These inner sections are in thermal contact with second radiation shield420.

In this illustrative example, the outer sections of the pulse tube coolers can operate to cool first radiation shield440to 40 K. The inner sections of the pulse tube coolers can operate to cool second radiation shield442to 2 K. In this illustrative example, the control circuits can operate at a temperature of 2 k or greater depending on the particular implementation.

Also depicted in this view is receptacle720in which housing438with control circuits is located. Receptacle720has dimensions that are selected to receive housing438.

With reference next toFIG.8, an illustration of a schematic diagram of an electronic interface is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. An enlarged view of electronic interface460inFIG.4andFIG.5is depicted. As depicted, electronic interface460can be comprised of conductive materials for the ticket type of signal used. For example, electronic interface460can include at least one of a metal, a metal alloy, gold, copper, carbon-based fiber, a superconducting material, niobium-titanium, Yttrium barium copper oxide, or other materials that can conduct electrical signals in electronic interface460.

In this illustrative example, electronic interface460has an electrical signal path that comprises a number of different components. As depicted, this electrical signal path comprises housing connector800, wiring802, pin connector804, pin receiver806, wire808, and pin connector810. In the illustrative example, these components can be implemented using superconducting materials. The use of superconducting materials or other materials with low thermal conductivity can reduce thermal loads. In illustrative example, low thermal conductivity can be metals or other materials having a thermal conductivity below 10 W/m·K. One example of a material can be Niobium.

Housing connector800in control circuit connector500can be connected to housing438containing control circuits. Pin connector804in control circuit connector500can be connected to pin receiver806in payload circuit connector502. As depicted, pin connector810in payload circuit connector502can be connected to payload416.

In this manner, a signal path for electrical signals can be established between a control circuit in housing438and payload416. With this connection, communications of information encoded in signals can be facilitated between the control circuit in housing438and payload416. This information can be, for example, commands and data.

Pin connector804in control circuit connector500can be inserted into pin receiver806in payload circuit connector502to provide a signal connection such that signals can be transmitted between the control circuit in housing438and payload416.

This illustration of electronic interface460presented as an example of one implementation for signal interface112inFIG.1. This illustration is not to limit the manner in which other illustrative examples can be appointed. For example, signal interface112can be implemented as an optical interface rather than an electronic interface or combination thereof.

Turning toFIG.9, an illustration of a schematic diagram of a perspective view of housing is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this perspective view of housing438inFIG.7, cover900can be removed to show interior904in which a control circuit can be located.

In this illustrative example, housing438can be sealed to be air-tight when cover900in secured to opening902. A vacuum can be present within interior904when housing438is sealed. In another example, a gas can be present within interior when housing438is sealed.

As depicted, fins, such as fin906, fin908, fin910, fin912, fin914, fin916, fin918, and fin920extend from housing438. These structures can be used to increase at least one of the speed or amount of cooling of housing438.

With reference toFIG.10, an illustration of a schematic diagram of a top view of housing is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this top view of housing438, control circuit1000can be seen within interior904thought opening902of housing438. In this illustrative example, control circuit1000in housing438can generate more heat than payload416. Control circuit1000can also operate at a higher temperature than payload416.

In this illustrative example, these fins are designed to provide a thermal contact to second radiation shield442. These fins can increase the thermal conductivity in a manner that facilitated increased cooling of housing438and in turn cooling of control circuit1000in housing438.

Turning toFIG.11, an illustration of a schematic diagram of dilution cooler with a connector for a payload is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As depicted, a portion of dilution cooler410inFIG.5is shown in an enlarged exposed view to illustrate connector1100for payload416.

In this illustrative example, connector1100comprises a number of different components. As depicted, connector1100comprises pin receiver1102, conductive lines1104, and pin receivers1106.

As depicted, pin receiver1102has a configuration with dimensions that can receive pin connector810in payload circuit connector502inFIG.8. Conductive lines1104connect pin receiver1102to pin receiver1106. In this illustrative example, pin receivers1106can receive pins1108extending from payload416. When payload416is detached to dilution cooler410.

In this illustrative example, payload416can be comprised carrier1110holding quantum computing circuit1112. As depicted, lines1114connect quantum computing circuit1112to pins1108extending from carrier1110.

The illustration of cooling system400in the different components inFIGS.4-11are pictorial schematic diagrams intended to illustrate features in the different illustrative examples. These illustrations are not meant to limit the manner in which other illustrative examples can be implemented.

Illustration of housing438inFIG.9andFIG.10is provided as an example an implementation for housing304FIG.3. This illustration is not meant to limit the manner in which other illustrative examples can be present. In another illustrative example, housing438may not be sealed. In yet another illustrative example, a different number of fins other than eight fins as depicted in figures may be present. Still in another illustrative example, fins can be omitted from housing438.

As another example, the illustration of connector1100and payload416are presented for illustrating one manner in which an illustrative embodiment can be implemented. In other illustrative examples, connector1100can be considered part of payload circuit connector502. In one illustrative example, wire808in payload circuit connector502can extend and connect to conductive lines1104without using pin connector810and pin receiver1102.

In yet another illustrative example, payload416can be quantum computing circuit1112that has pins or other types of connectors for connection to pin receivers1106without carrier1110. In yet other illustrative examples, other types of components can be present in addition to or in place of quantum computing circuit1112. For example, quantum computing circuit1112, a sensor, and a material can comprise components in payload416. In other words, payload416can include more than one circular component.

Turning now toFIG.12, an illustration of a schematic diagram of side view of a cooling system configured for multiple payloads is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this illustrative example, payload refrigeration unit1200in section1202replaces payload refrigeration unit402.

InFIG.13, an enlarged view of payload the refrigeration unit inFIG.12is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this figure, an enlarged view of payload refrigeration unit1200in section1202is shown in this illustrative example.

As depicted, payload refrigeration unit1200comprises payload enclosure1302with first radiation shield1304and second radiation shield1306. In this example, second radiation shield1306is located within first radiation shield1304.

In this illustrative example, cooling is provided by pulse tube cooler1308. Additional pulse tube coolers are present but not shown to avoid obscuring the illustration of features within payload refrigeration unit1200in the illustrative example.

Additionally, cooling can be provided by multiple dilution coolers. In this depicted example, dilution cooler1310, dilution cooler1312, and dilution cooler1314are present within payload enclosure1302. As depicted, port1309, port1311, and lines1313provide at least one of coolant to dilution cooler1310, dilution cooler1312, and dilution cooler1314.

With these multiple dilution coolers, multiple payloads can also be present and operate within payload refrigeration unit1200. As depicted, payload1316, payload1318, and payload1320are present. Payload1316is thermally connected to dilution cooler1310; payload1318is thermally connected to dilution cooler1314; and payload1320is thermally connected to dilution cooler1312.

These payloads are also electrically connected to payload circuit connector1322. Control circuit connector500in control refrigeration unit404can be connected to payload circuit connector1300in payload refrigeration unit1200to form the electronic interface for this implementation of cooling system400. In this manner, the control circuits in control refrigeration unit404can communicate with at least one of payload1316, payload1318, or payload1320.

As depicted, port1324is present in payload enclosure1302. Port1324can be used to perform operations such as introducing a gas, drawing a vacuum, or some other suitable operation.

Also depicted is section1326and gate valve1328for loading chamber. The second section in the loading chamber on the other side of gate valve1328and a transfer are not shown in this illustration. This loading chamber can be used to introduce or can remove at least one of payload1316, payload1318, or payload1320from payload enclosure1302.

The illustration of payload refrigeration unit1200for cooling system400is provided as an example of some implementations for cooling system102inFIG.1. These illustrations are not meant to limit the manner in which other illustrative examples can be implemented. For example, in another illustrative example, one or more additional payload refrigeration units can be connected to control refrigeration unit404. In yet another example, one or more control refrigeration units can be connected to payload refrigeration unit402. As yet another example, other numbers of dilution coolers can be present in payload refrigeration unit

Turning next toFIG.14, an illustration of a flowchart of a process for controlling a cooling environment is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process inFIG.14can be implemented in hardware, software, or both. When implemented in software, the process can take the form of program code that is run by one of more processor units located in one or more hardware devices in one or more computer systems. For example, the process can be implemented in cooling system102inFIGS.1-3and cooling system400inFIGS.4-11.

The process begins by operating a payload in a payload refrigeration unit (operation1400). The process cools the payload in the payload refrigeration unit during operation of the payload using a set of payload cooling components for the payload refrigeration unit (operation1402).

The process operates a control circuit in a control refrigeration unit (operation1404). The process cools the set of control circuits in the control refrigeration unit during an operation of the set of control circuits using a set of control circuit cooling components (operation1406). The process terminates thereafter.

Turning toFIG.15, an illustration of a flowchart of a process for controlling a quantum circuit environment is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process inFIG.15can be implemented in hardware, software, or both. When implemented in software, the process can take the form of program code that is run by one of more processor units located in one or more hardware devices in one or more computer systems. For example, the process can be implemented in cooling system102inFIGS.1-3and cooling system400inFIGS.4-11.

Process begins by operating a set of quantum circuits in a payload refrigeration unit comprising a payload enclosure and a dilution cooler within the payload enclosure (operation1500). In operation1500, the set of quantum circuits is thermally connected to the dilution cooler.

The process cools the set of quantum circuits in the payload refrigeration unit during operation of the set of quantum circuits using the dilution cooler (operation1502). Although operation1502describes cooling the set of quantum circuits during operation of the set of quantum circuits, the cooling can also occur during at least one of before or after operation of the set of quantum circuits.

The process operates a control circuit in a control refrigeration unit comprising a control enclosure and a set of coolers connected to the control enclosure (operation1504). In operation1504, the set of control circuits is thermally connected to set of coolers within the control enclosure and operates to control the set of quantum circuits. The process cools the control circuit in the control refrigeration unit during an operation of the control circuit using the set of coolers (operation1506). The process terminates thereafter.

Although the flowcharts show operations in a particular order, this order is for purposes of illustrating operations and is not meant to imply that the depicted order. The different operations inFIG.15and in other flowcharts can be performed in parallel at substantially the same time when possible to implement features of the different illustrative examples for cooling system102inFIGS.1-3and cooling system400inFIGS.4-11.

For example, without limitation, operation1500and operation1504can be performed in parallel. In other words, these two operations can be performed at substantially the same time but do not have to start and stop at the same time.

Turning toFIG.16, an illustration of a flowchart of a process for exchanging signals in a quantum circuit environment is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. This figure illustrates an example of an additional operation that can be performed in the flowchart inFIG.15.

The process exchanges signals between the control circuits and the set of quantum circuits through a superconductor electronic interface (operation1600). The process terminates thereafter.

Turning toFIG.17, an illustration of a process for moving quantum circuits into a payload in a quantum circuit environment is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. This figure illustrates additional operations that can be performed in the flowchart inFIG.15.

The process begins by moving the set of quantum circuits into a loading chamber connected to the payload enclosure (operation1700). In operation1700, the loading chamber has an aperture. In this example, the aperture can be implemented in a device such as a gate value. This aperture can be located anywhere along the length of the loading chamber.

The process adjusts an environment in the loading chamber to a set of desired values for a set of parameters while the aperture is closed (operation1702). The set of parameters in operation1702can be selected from at least one of a temperature, a vacuum level, a pressure, or some others selected parameter. The set of desired values can be a value for a parameter for which value to be matched or within a tolerance or range to the value of for the parameter in the payload enclosure.

The process opens the aperture in the loading chamber in response to the environment in the loading chamber having the set of desired values for the set of parameters (operation1704). In this illustrative example, the aperture can be an aperture in a gate valve that can be opened and closed.

The process moves the set of quantum circuits through the aperture into the payload enclosure in response to the aperture being opened (operation1706). The process connects the set of quantum circuits to a signal interface after moving the set of quantum circuits into the payload enclosure (operation1708). The process terminates thereafter.

In operation1708, the connection may be made between the set of quantum circuits and a signal interface through a connector. The connector can be, for example, a pin connector system in which the connection can be made by moving the set of quantum circuits into the appropriate location within the quantum circuit refrigeration unit.

With reference toFIG.18, an illustration of a process for moving control a payload out of a payload enclosure in a quantum circuit environment is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. This figure illustrates additional operations that can be performed in the flowchart inFIG.15.

The process begins by opening an aperture in a loading chamber connected to the payload enclosure (operation1800). The process moves the set of quantum circuits out of the payload enclosure through the aperture in the loading chamber in response to the aperture being opened (operation1802). In this illustrative example, moving the set of quantum circuits through the aperture enables closing aperture to separate the set of quantum circuits from the environment in the payload enclosure.

The process closes the aperture in response to the set of quantum circuits being moved out of the payload enclosure through the aperture in the loading chamber (operation1804). Process removes the set of quantum circuits in the loading chamber after the aperture has been closed (operation1806). The process terminates thereafter.

Tuning now toFIG.19, an illustration of a process for moving a set of quantum circuits out of a payload enclosure in a quantum circuit environment is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. This figure illustrates an additional operation that can be performed in the flowchart inFIG.18.

The process adjusts an environment in the loading chamber to a set of desired values for a set of parameters prior to removing the set of quantum circuits from the loading chamber (operation1900). The process terminates thereafter.

With reference now toFIG.20, an illustration of a process for moving a control circuit into a control enclosure in a quantum circuit environment is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. This figure illustrates additional operations that can be performed in the flowchart inFIG.15.

The process begins by moving the control circuit into a loading chamber connected to the control enclosure by an aperture (operation2000). The process adjusts an environment in the loading chamber to a set of desired values for a set of parameters while the aperture is closed (operation2002). In operation2002, the set of parameters can be at least one of a temperature, a vacuum, pressure, or some other selected parameter.

The process opens the aperture in response to the environment in the loading chamber having a set of desire values for the set of parameters (operation2004). The process moves the control circuit through the aperture into the control enclosure in response to the aperture being opened (operation2006).

The process couples the control circuit to a signal interface after moving the control circuit through the aperture into the control enclosure (operation2008). The process terminates thereafter.

With reference now toFIG.21, an illustration of a process for moving a control circuit out of a control enclosure in a quantum circuit environment is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. This figure illustrates additional operations that can be performed in the flowchart inFIG.15.

The process opens an aperture in a loading chamber connected to the control enclosure (operation2100). The process moves the control circuit out of the control enclosure through the aperture into the loading chamber in response to the aperture being open (operation2102).

The process closes the aperture in response to the control circuit being moved out of the control enclosure through the aperture in the loading chamber (operation2104). The process moves the control circuit out of the loading chamber after the aperture is closed (operation2106). process terminates thereafter.

Tuning now toFIG.22, an illustration of a process for moving a set of control circuits out of a payload enclosure in a quantum circuit environment is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. This figure illustrates an additional operation that can be performed in the flowchart inFIG.21.

The process adjusts an environment in the loading chamber to a set of desired values for a set of parameters prior to removing the control circuit from the loading chamber (operation2200). The process terminates thereafter.

The flowcharts and block diagrams in the different depicted embodiments illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of some possible implementations of apparatuses and methods in an illustrative embodiment. In this regard, each block in the flowcharts or block diagrams can represent at least one of a module, a segment, a function, or a portion of an operation or step. For example, one or more of the blocks can be implemented as program code, hardware, or a combination of the program code and hardware. When implemented in hardware, the hardware can, for example, take the form of integrated circuits that are manufactured or configured to perform one or more operations in the flowcharts or block diagrams. When implemented as a combination of program code and hardware, the implementation may take the form of firmware. Each block in the flowcharts or the block diagrams can be implemented using special purpose hardware systems that perform the different operations or combinations of special purpose hardware and program code run by the special purpose hardware.

In some alternative implementations of an illustrative embodiment, the function or functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, in some cases, two blocks shown in succession may be performed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be performed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. Also, other blocks may be added in addition to the illustrated blocks in a flowchart or block diagram.

For example, operation1502inFIG.15is an optional step that can be omitted in some illustrative examples. As another example, operation2002inFIG.20is also an optional step optional and can be omitted in some illustrative examples.

Some features of the illustrative examples are described in the following clauses. These clauses are examples of features not intended to limit other illustrative examples.

Clause 1:

A cooling system comprising:a payload refrigeration unit having a set of payload cooling components that operate to cool a payload;a control refrigeration unit having a set of control circuit cooling components a control circuit; anda signal interface connecting the payload located in the payload refrigeration unit to the control circuit located in control refrigeration unit.
Clause 2:

The cooling system according to clause 1 further comprising:a set of payload refrigeration units having a set of corresponding payloads, wherein the signal interface connects the set of corresponding payloads located in the set of payload refrigeration units to the control circuit in the payload refrigeration unit.
Clause 3:

The cooling system according to one of clauses 1 or 2, wherein a first temperature in the payload refrigeration unit is about 10 mK and a second temperature in the control refrigeration unit is in a temperature range from about 2 K to about room temperature.

Clause 4:

The cooling system according to one of clauses 1, 2, or 3 further comprising:a loading chamber having an aperture connected to the payload refrigeration unit.
Clause 5:

The cooling system according to clause 4, wherein an environment in the loading chamber is adjusted to a set of desired values for a set of parameters prior at least one of opening the aperture and moving the payload from the payload refrigeration unit into the loading chamber, opening the aperture and moving the payload from the loading chamber into the payload refrigeration unit, or removing the payload from the loading chamber.

Clause 6:

The cooling system according to one of clauses according to one of clauses 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 further comprising:a loading chamber having an aperture connected to the control refrigeration unit.
Clause 7:

The cooling system according to clause 6, wherein an environment in the loading chamber is adjusted to a set of desired values for a set of parameters prior at least one of opening the aperture and moving the control circuit from the control refrigeration unit into the loading chamber, opening the aperture and moving the control circuit from the loading chamber into the control refrigeration unit, or removing the control circuit from the loading chamber.

Clause 8:

The cooling system according to one of clauses according to one of clauses 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7, wherein the payload refrigeration unit comprises:a payload enclosure; andwherein the set of payload cooling components comprises:

a dilution cooler in the payload enclosure, wherein the dilution cooler cools the payload when the payload is thermally connected to the dilution cooler within the payload enclosure.

Clause 9:

The cooling system according to clause 8, wherein the payload enclosure is vacuumable.

Clause 10:

The cooling system according to one or clauses 8 or 9, wherein set of payload cooling components further comprises:a set of coolers that cool an interior of the payload enclosure.
Clause 11:

The cooling system according to one clauses 8,9, or 10, wherein the control refrigeration unit comprises:a control enclosure configured to receive the control circuit within the control enclosure; and

wherein the set of control circuit cooling components comprises:a set of coolers that cool the control circuit located within the control enclosure.
Clause 12:

The cooling system according to clause 11, wherein the control enclosure is vacuumable.

Clause 13:

The cooling system according to one of clauses according to one of clauses 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12, wherein the payload is selected from at least one of a quantum computing circuit, a quantum computing chip, a superconducting circuit, a sensor system and a low temperature material, a superconducting material, an infra-red imaging system, or a topological material with electronic properties that are distinct between a surface of the topological material and an interior of topological material and a sensor system.

Clause 14:

A cryogenic cooling system comprising:a payload refrigeration unit comprising:a payload enclosure; anda dilution cooler within the payload enclosure, wherein the dilution cooler cools a payload when the payload is thermally connected to the dilution cooler and is located within the payload enclosure; anda control refrigeration unit comprising:a control enclosure; anda set of coolers connected to the control enclosure, wherein the set of coolers cools a control circuit when the control circuit is thermally connected to the set of coolers and is located within the control enclosure; anda signal interface connecting the control circuit to the payload, enabling signals to be exchanged between the control circuit and the payload during an operation of the control circuit.
Clause 15:

The cryogenic cooling system according to clause 14, wherein the set of coolers is a set of first coolers further comprising:a set of second coolers connected to the payload enclosure, wherein the set of second coolers is a first stage cooler that cools an interior of the payload enclosure to 2 Kelvin and the dilution cooler is a second stage cooler that cools the payload to 10 milli Kelvin.
Clause 16:

The cryogenic cooling system according to clause 15 further comprising:a loading chamber having an aperture in communication with the payload enclosure.
Clause 17:

The cryogenic cooling system according to clause 16, wherein an environment in the loading chamber is adjusted to a set of desired values for a set of parameters prior at least one of opening the aperture and moving the payload from the payload enclosure into the loading chamber, opening the aperture and moving the payload from the loading chamber into the payload enclosure, or removing the payload from the loading chamber.

Clause 18:

The cryogenic cooling system according to clause 17, wherein the set of parameters is selected from at least one of temperature, a vacuum, or a pressure.

Clause 19:

The cryogenic cooling system of according to one of clauses 14, 15, 16, 17, or 18 further comprising:a loading chamber having an aperture in communication with the control enclosure.
Clause 20:

The cryogenic cooling system according to clause 19, wherein an environment in the loading chamber is adjusted to a set of desired values for a set of parameters prior at least one of opening the aperture and moving the control circuit from the control enclosure into the loading chamber, opening the aperture and moving the control circuit from the loading chamber into the control enclosure, or removing the control circuit from the loading chamber.

Clause 21:

The cryogenic cooling system according to clause 20, wherein the set of parameters is selected from at least one of a temperature, a vacuum, or a pressure.

Clause 22:

The cryogenic cooling system according to one of clauses 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21, wherein the dilution cooler cools the payload to 10 milli K and wherein the set of coolers cools the control circuit in a temperature range from about 2 K to about room temperature.

Clause 23:

The cryogenic cooling system according to one of clauses 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, or 22, wherein the payload enclosure and the control enclosure are vacuumable.

Clause 24:

The cryogenic cooling system according to one of clauses 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, or 23 further comprising:a first radiation shield located within the payload refrigeration unit;a second radiation shield located within the first radiation shield in the payload refrigeration unit;a third radiation shield located within the control refrigeration unit; anda fourth radiation shield located within the third radiation shield in the control refrigeration unit.
Clause 25:

The cryogenic cooling system according to one of clauses 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, or 24 further comprising:a housing, wherein the control circuit is located within the housing, the housing is sealed, and helium is located within the housing.
Clause 26:

The cryogenic cooling system according to one of clauses 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, or 25 further comprising:a set of dilution coolers that cools at least one of the payload or a set of payloads.
Clause 27:

The cryogenic cooling system according to one of clauses 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, or 26 further comprising:a set of refrigeration units having a set of dilution coolers that cool a set of corresponding payloads in the set of refrigeration units, wherein the set of corresponding payloads is connected to the control circuit using the signal interface.
Clause 28:

The cryogenic cooling system according to one of clauses 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, or 26, wherein the set of first coolers and the set of second coolers are selected from at least one of a pulse tube cooler, a Stirling cooler, a Gifford-McMahon (GM) cooler, a Joule-Thomson (JT) cooler, a liquid helium heat exchanger, or a supercritical liquid cooler.

Clause 29:

The cryogenic cooling system according to one of clauses 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, or 28, wherein the payload is selected from at least one of a quantum computing circuit, a quantum computing chip, a superconducting circuit, a sensor system and a low temperature material, a superconducting material, or an infra-red imaging system, or a topological material with electronic properties that are distinct between a surface of the topological material and an interior of topological material and a sensor system.

Clause 30:

A method for controlling a quantum circuit environment, the method comprising:operating a set of quantum circuits in a payload refrigeration unit comprising a payload enclosure and a dilution cooler within the payload enclosure, wherein the set of quantum circuits is thermally connected to the dilution cooler;cooling the set of quantum circuits in the payload refrigeration unit during operation of the set of quantum circuits using the dilution cooler;operating a control circuit in a control refrigeration unit comprising a control enclosure and a set of coolers connected to the control enclosure, wherein the control circuit is thermally connected to set of coolers within the control enclosure and operates to control the set of quantum circuits; andcooling the control circuit in the control refrigeration unit during an operation of the control circuit using the set of coolers.
Clause 31:

The method according to clause 30 further comprising:exchanging signals between the control circuit and the set of quantum circuits through a superconductor electronic interface.
Clause 32:

The method according to one of clauses 30 or 31 further comprising:moving the set of quantum circuits into a loading chamber connected to the payload enclosure, where in the loading chamber has an aperture;adjusting an environment in the loading chamber to a set of desired values for a set of parameters while the aperture is closed;opening the aperture in the loading chamber in response to the environment in the loading chamber having the set of desired values for the set of parameters;moving the set of quantum circuits through the aperture into the payload enclosure in response to the aperture being opened: andconnecting the set of quantum circuits to a signal interface after moving the set of quantum circuits into the payload enclosure.
Clause 33:

The method according to clause 32, wherein the set of parameters comprises at least one of a temperature, a vacuum, or a pressure.

Clause 34:

The method according to one of clauses 30, 31, 32, or 33 further comprising:opening an aperture in a loading chamber connected to the payload enclosure by the aperture;moving the set of quantum circuits out of the payload enclosure through the aperture in the loading chamber in response to the aperture being opened;closing the aperture in response to the set of quantum circuits being moved out of the payload enclosure through the aperture in the loading chamber; andmoving the set of quantum circuits out of the loading chamber after the aperture is closed.
Clause 35:

The method according to clause 34 further comprising:adjusting an environment in the loading chamber to a set of desired values for a set of parameters prior to removing the set of quantum circuits from the loading chamber.
Clause 36:

The method according to clause 35, wherein the set of parameters comprises at least one of a temperature, a vacuum, or a pressure.

Clause 37:

The method according to one of clauses 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, or 36 further comprising:moving the control circuit into a loading chamber connected to the control enclosure, wherein an aperture is between the control circuit and the control enclosure;adjusting an environment in the loading chamber to a set of desired values for a set of parameters while the aperture is closed;opening the aperture in response to the environment in the loading chamber having the set of desired values for the set of parameters; andmoving the control circuit into the control enclosure in response to the aperture been opened; andconnecting the control circuit to a signal interface after moving the control circuit through the aperture into the control enclosure.
Clause 38:

The method according to clause 37, wherein the set of parameters comprises at least one of a temperature or a vacuum.

Clause 39:

The method according to one of clauses 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, or 38 further comprising:opening an aperture in a loading chamber connected to the control enclosure;moving the control circuit out of the control enclosure through the aperture into the loading chamber in response to the aperture being open; andclosing the aperture in response to the control circuit being moved out of the control enclosure through the aperture in the loading chamber;moving the control circuit out of the loading chamber after the aperture is closed.
Clause 40:

The method according to clause 39 further comprising:adjusting an environment in the loading chamber to a set of desired values for a set of parameters prior to removing the control circuit from the loading chamber.
Clause 41:

The method according to clause 40, wherein the set of parameters comprises at least one of a temperature or a vacuum.

Thus, illustrative examples provide a method, apparatus, and system for cooling components. This cooling can be performed in which the different components operated in a cryogenic environment in which further temperatures such as those at or below hundred 120 K, which is about −153 degrees C. include a cooling system comprising a payload refrigeration unit, control refrigeration unit, and a signal interface. The payload refrigeration unit has a set of payload cooling components that operate to cool a payload. The control refrigeration unit has a set of control circuit cooling components a control circuit. The signal interface connecting the payload located in the payload refrigeration unit to the control circuit located in control refrigeration unit.

In one or more illustrative examples, the environment for control circuits are separate from the environment for payloads. In illustrative examples, independent control and access to control refrigeration units and payload refrigeration units can increase the operational capacity of the cooling system. Further, with the use of components such as loading chambers, the system can insert and remove components, such as a control circuit or a payload, in a manner that enables the components to have environment close to that within the refrigeration units prior to introducing these components to the refrigeration units. In this manner, cooling or warming an entire refrigeration unit can be avoided using the different illustrative examples.

The description of the different illustrative embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the form disclosed. The different illustrative examples describe components that perform actions or operations. In an illustrative embodiment, a component can be configured to perform the action or operation described. For example, the component can have a configuration or design for a structure that provides the component an ability to perform the action or operation that is described in the illustrative examples as being performed by the component. Further, To the extent that terms “includes”, “including”, “has”, “contains”, and variants thereof are used herein, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprises” as an open transition word without precluding any additional or other elements.

Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, different illustrative embodiments may provide different features as compared to other desirable embodiments. The embodiment or embodiments selected are chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.