Sensors of the Future: Perceiving the Impossible with Quantum Technology

Gina Pöhlmann

While quantum sensors have been used in healthcare for a long time, new quantum technologies, such as computing and communication, are promised to advance the field in different ways. With the technologies still emerging, questions are being raised about their impact, who will benefit, and what unintended consequences may arise. This study, therefore, explores how quantum researchers and clinical physicians perceive the future of quantum technologies in healthcare using the concept of vanguard visions. 27 semi-structured interviews uncovered four prominent perspectives, that offered cautiously optimistic visions of the technologies’ feasibility. The vanguards highlight the importance of effective science communication to mitigate hype, to pinpoint use cases where quantum provides real benefits over classical systems, and to foster ecosystems that are driven by cross-disciplinary collaboration to ensure more holistic developments. Stakeholders emphasize the wish for public infrastructure and joint developments to avoid monopolies and guarantee fair access to healthcare.

Charles Wang, M.M. Santos

Manijeh Razeghi, Gail J. Brown

Rob Bogue

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide details of developments in quantum technologies and consider their potential applications in robotics. Design/methodology/approach Following a short introduction, this study first provides an overview of the global quantum technology landscape. It then discusses developments in quantum computing and sensing technologies. Potential applications in robotics are then considered and finally, brief conclusions are drawn. Findings Quantum technologies are the topic of a rapidly growing global R&D effort. Quantum computing has the potential to conduct conventional computations far more rapidly than traditional computers and solve complex problems that are presently challenging or impossible. If realised, robotic applications could include enhanced route planning, machine learning and data fusion. Quantum position and magnetic field sensors have the potential to revolutionise navigation systems in airborne, land and marine robots and overcome limitations of GPS and inertial measurement units. Magnetic sensors also have a role in health care in the control of robotic prostheses and exoskeletons and in brain–computer interface techniques. Quantum radar, lidar and imaging systems stand to outperform their conventional counterparts, and applications are anticipated in military and civilian robots. Quantum technologies are still at an early stage of development, and much progress will be made in the future, opening up many further robotic applications. Originality/value This study provides an insight into quantum technology developments and their potential applications in robotics.

Ana R. Bastos, Emmanuel Zambrini Cruzeiro, M. Niehus +1 more

Kun Liao, Zhaochu Yang, Tao Dong +7 more

Abstract Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) can revolutionize how humans interact with technology, but several scientific and technological challenges must be addressed to realize their full potential. Recent developments in quantum‐based sensing methods offer promising solutions to some of these challenges. This review provides an overview of the progress, challenges, and prospects of BCIs research and discuss the feasibility of integrating quantum sensor technology in BCI systems. The applications of quantum sensing in BCIs research are reviewed and the solution based on quantum sensor technology to overcome some of the challenges associated with BCI systems is proposed. The potential of quantum sensor technology for the future development of BCIs is emphasized. Overall, this review highlights quantum sensor technology's significant potential for future development of BCI.