Topological Defect Braiding on a Modular Superconducting Architecture for Scalable Quantum Computation

Abstract

This paper explores a theoretical framework for scalable topological quantum computation by integrating the braiding of non-Abelian anyons, realized as topological defects in a surface code, with a modular superconducting quantum hardware architecture. The central thesis is that the inherent fault tolerance of topological qubits, combined with the scalability and error isolation offered by a modular design, presents a viable path toward large-scale quantum computers. We analyze the creation, manipulation, and braiding of twist defects (Majorana zero modes) within individual superconducting modules. The architecture relies on high-fidelity, tunable inter-module couplers to facilitate the transfer of these defects between adjacent modules, enabling complex braiding operations across the entire processor. We discuss the challenges, including quasiparticle poisoning, decoherence at module interfaces, and the overhead associated with defect creation and measurement. By leveraging the surface code for error correction within each module and topological braiding for logical gate operations, this hybrid approach aims to mitigate the stringent physical qubit fidelity requirements of traditional quantum error correction schemes. The proposed architecture offers a promising route to overcoming the scalability limitations of monolithic processors while harnessing the intrinsic robustness of topological quantum computation.