IBM Quantum System One: Cleveland Clinic

Quantum computers are considered to be one of the key emerging technologies of the 21st century. Instead of employing bits for calculations as classical computing does, they work with qubits in quantum entanglement. Quantum computers provide the potential for a significant increase in processing power. It is thought that currently intractable problems will soon be solved by quantum computers, which may also enable applications that have not even yet been thought of. The IBM Quantum System One by the U.S. tech giant IBM makes this computational power mainstream, as it is the first quantum computing system to take the step from research lab to commercial use. Naturally, such a computer first required a design. As quantum computing places high demands on its environment, a wide range of IT specialists and physicists worked with the designers. Since the system has to be protected from any type of electromagnetic radiation or other disturbances, the housing selected was a sealed, airtight cube made of borosilicate glass with a side length of 2.7 metres. The key system components, in other words the electronic controls and cryostat, were split off into separate aluminium and steel cases to ensure improved performance and a clean look. The cryostat is the refrigerator/vacuum in which the quantum computing actually takes place at temperatures colder than minus 270 degrees centigrade. It was thus placed in a central position and clad in a mirror-polished stainless-steel cylinder. By using transparent glass and mirrored surfaces, the design conveys openness and accessibility instead of evoking the impression of a black box, while still laying bare the mysteries of the quantum realm. The logo and name of the system shown on the glass cube embrace IBM’s brand identity and inspire confidence. The jury expressed itself delighted. “The design of Quantum System One is an example of outstanding work. Drawing on simple geometric forms has resulted in a compelling, timeless appearance for an extremely complex technology.” The award-winning model of System One was built together with the Cleveland Clinic and is used for medical research.