Quantum-accelerated database management: Quantum Brilliance supports BMBF-funded research project "QC4DB"
University of Lübeck is working on the optimization of queries and transaction plans in relational database management systems (RDBMS)
German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) supports quantum computing project with more than 1.4 million euros
STUTTGART, March 29, 2022 ---- Quantum Brilliance, german-Australian manufacturer of innovative quantum computing hardware, is a partner of the University of Lübeck in the joint project "Accelerating Relational Database Management Systems via Quantum Computing (QC4DB)". Researchers at the Institute of Information Systems use the quantum computers of the German-Australian start-up to optimize queries and transaction plans in relational database management systems (RDBMS). The project will run for three years and is funded by the BMBF with more than 1.4 million euros. The corresponding profile can be found here.
Streamlined Requests and Transaction Plans for Relational Database Management Systems
Fast and efficient data management is the basis for the successful use of digital applications. Relational database management systems are most commonly used for this purpose. The goal of QC4DB is to solve two fundamental problems of these systems. On the one hand, it is about translating RDBMS queries into expressions of relational algebra. Typically, there is a large number of equivalent expressions, from which the expression that is considered optimal must be selected. On the other hand, the focus is on transactions. These are defined as a sequence of operations in the form of read and write requests performed by a single user or application program. Optimizing transaction schedules determines the ideal order of parallel execution of transactions for best performance. Both problems can be reduced to the application of basic mathematical optimization approaches, but the corresponding computational operations are enormously complex and can be greatly accelerated by quantum computers. A press release from the University of Lübeck on the project can be found here.
Diamond-based quantum computers for complex computational operations
As a project partner, Quantum Brilliance provides the researchers with several quantum computers for extensive simulations. The quantum processors work with spin qubits in synthetic diamond with specifically implanted nitrogen atoms (NV centers) in the diamond lattice. These act as computer nodes between which the quantum properties are transmitted by light. Due to the stability of the diamond lattice, the quantum processors can be operated at room temperature in an energy-efficient manner and without much cooling effort. In addition, they fit into a server rack and thus take up very little space.
"We will use quantum computers to speed up time-consuming tasks in relational databases, so that low delays – latencies – and fast executions promise a smooth experience for the user," explains Dr. Sven Groppe, professor at the Institute of Information Systems at the University of Lübeck and project coordinator of QC4DB.
"The use of our computers as part of QC4DB is a great example of a concrete use case of quantum computing. This is where our diamond-based quantum processors come into their own and we are delighted to be part of the project," says Mark Mattingley-Scott, Head of Europe at Quantum Brilliance. "At Quantum Brilliance, we believe that powerful quantum computing will bring an unprecedented boost of innovation to all sectors of the economy and society. To make this work, we are continuously working to promote the commercial use of the technology in all conceivable areas."