Background
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We are promoting the verification and research and development of cutting-edge technologies including
quantum computers
in anticipation of the quantum era.
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We aim to enhance the value of the optimization solution "Fiboat," developed by Nomura Research Institute,
by utilizing
cutting-edge machines such as quantum computers and Ising machines.
Results of Utilization
-
We worked on optimizing the power consumption of the cooling equipment in our own data center using
quantum computers
and confirmed a power reduction effect of approximately 10% under certain conditions.
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Through the above efforts, we have acquired knowledge regarding the effective utilization of important
quantum computers
and Ising machines for future business development.
1. About the optimization solution "Fiboat"
Our team is currently engaged in technical validation and R&D of quantum computers and mathematical
optimization
algorithms, developing a business called "Fiboat" to address challenges such as improving labor
productivity and
reducing CO2 emissions. We are also creating an optimization solution for various industries such as
logistics, energy, and retail, leveraging
the knowledge we have gained from these efforts.
In recent years, it has become technologically easier
to predict the future through machine learning and other methods,
and we feel that optimization to support decision-making based on predictions is attracting attention in a
wide range of
industries.
Fixstars Amplify Hiraoka (Photo left), NRI Mr. Watanabe (Photo right)
Quantum computers are actively being researched and developed for practical use, with optimization being one
of the
areas where they are expected to be utilized. However, in the field of optimization, many dedicated machines
and optimization algorithms that utilize conventional
computer technologies other than quantum have also emerged.
We are working to understand the characteristics of quantum computers and other methods with an eye
towards the coming
quantum age, so that we can choose the appropriate method.
2. The appeal of Fixstars Amplify
Our team works on optimization problems for clients in various industries. In practice, when comparing quantum
computers and other methods, dedicated machines and algorithms using conventional
computers are often more practical options at this time. Especially for combinatorial optimization problems,
Fixstars Amplify AE is by far the largest machine capable of
handling problem sizes, and it provides all the necessary information for development, including sample code,
making it
very user-friendly.
Another attractive point is that by developing programs using Fixstars Amplify SDK, existing programs can be
seamlessly
transitioned to the new quantum era without wasting time and money.
3. To effectively utilize Ising machines.
Fixstars Amplify AE and other Ising machines are specialized machines for combinatorial optimization
problems. One of their features is their ability to solve optimization problems involving quadratic terms,
which are
multiplications of decision variables, at high speed. By exploring and implementing logic that can
incorporate quadratic terms into the formulation, the probability of
obtaining a good solution to be more applicable to actual operational settings increases. It is difficult
to design
quadratic terms, and implementing the algorithm requires ingenuity.
Recently, we worked on optimizing the power consumption of "heat source equipment" in our data center and
confirmed a
prospect of about 10% power reduction under certain conditions.
In this case, we went through numerous trials and errors to effectively utilize quadratic terms and gained
valuable
insights through collaboration with the Fixstars Amplify team.
Results of power optimization in our own data centers
Related link:
NRI Press Release/ Quantum Computers Used in Demonstration Experiments to Reduce Power Consumption in Data
Centers
(2022/12/6)
https://www.nri.com/jp/news/info/cc/lst/2022/1206_1 
(Note: Japanese Only)
4. Expectations for Fixstars Amplify in the future.
We eagerly anticipate further collaboration with Fixstars Amplify to drive optimization in the quantum era. We
also have high expectations for Fixstars Amplify not only to expand the development and execution environment
for
optimization, but also to consider the development of a foundation for utilizing quantum computers for a
variety of
applications.
* All information in this article is based on information available at the time of the interview
(April 2023).
After completing the interview
As a development partner of Fixstars Amplify, we spoke with Nomura Research Institute, with whom we are
examining the
potential of the application of quantum computing technology.
I personally share their stance of identifying technologies that can be "used now" to solve their
customers' problems,
while keeping an eye on the arrival of the quantum era. I am very grateful that Fixstars Amplify has
been recognized for
its advantages by a group of experts involved in research and development of quantum computers and
mathematical
optimization. Fixstars Amplify is a service that can be used for a wide range of use cases, from a free
basic plan that can be easily
tried out to system development by development partners such as Nomura Research Institute. Please
contact us if you are interested, thank you.
Interviewer: Takuji Hiraoka (President & CEO, Fixstars Amplify Corporation)
