Applied Physics: From Science to Solutions
While Von Braun Labs boasts a robust in-house team driving innovation, our Applied Physics field particularly excels at transforming cutting-edge science into real-world solutions. This is powered by our highly specialized team and strengthened by strong partnerships with leading institutions and top professionals in the field
Quantum and Hybrid Algorithms for Smarter, Faster, and Leaner Logistics
Quantum-Resilient Architectures for Confidential and Reliable Data Exchange
Advanced Spatial Optimization Techniques for Next-Generation Semiconductor Design
Quantum and Hybrid Algorithms for Smarter, Faster, and Leaner Logistics
Quantum-Resilient Architectures for Confidential and Reliable Data Exchange
Advanced Spatial Optimization Techniques for Next-Generation Semiconductor Design
Floorplan Optimization for Chips
Challenge
Optimize the physical layout of integrated circuits to reduce latency, energy consumption, and area, while accommodating the increasing complexity of semiconductor architectures. This is essential for advancing Brazil’s capabilities in chip design and accelerating development cycles in strategic sectors like aerospace, defense, and communications.
Solution
Formulation of the floorplanning problem as a Quadratic Unconstrained Binary Optimization (QUBO), enabling compatibility with both classical and quantum solvers;
Implementation of quantum-enhanced heuristics to explore vast solution spaces more efficiently than traditional methods;
Use of hybrid quantum-classical workflows to integrate emerging quantum algorithms with industry-standard EDA (Electronic Design Automation) tools;
Exploration of performance gains through simulations in scenarios involving high-density chip designs.
Impact
By applying quantum and hybrid optimization to chip layout challenges, Ntropiq contributes to the development of high-performance, energy-efficient hardware — helping position Brazil as a global player in the semiconductor supply chain and advancing national technological sovereignty in microelectronics.
Warehouse Optimization (WMS)
Challenge
Improve warehouse efficiency in industrial environments by minimizing logistical costs — such as space usage, retrieval times, and item travel paths — while managing growing complexity in inventory and order fulfillment. Many of these problems exceed the limits of classical computational methods due to their combinatorial nature, requiring more powerful optimization strategies.
Solution
Adaptation of warehouse layout and item placement problems into QUBO formulations, enabling execution on classical, quantum, and hybrid solvers;
Implementation and testing on trapped-ion quantum processors to explore the performance of quantum-native solutions;
Optimization of item allocation in FIFO (First In, First Out) gravity flow racks — reducing reinsertions and increasing picking efficiency;
Application of quantum annealing and adiabatic quantum computing to simulate real-world warehouse operations and validate performance gains.
Impact
By advancing logistics through quantum and hybrid algorithms, Ntropiq is helping industries reduce operational bottlenecks, increase delivery efficiency, and lower warehousing costs — building the foundation for smart, adaptive supply chains and contributing to the modernization of Brazil’s industrial infrastructure.
Secure Communications
Challenge
Enable secure and accessible quantum communication technologies for the market, with a focus on short-term commercial applications — boosting Brazil’s technological autonomy in strategic areas such as cryptography and data security.
Solution
A Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) ready for commercial use, seamlessly integrated into high-security data systems;
A proof-of-concept for a Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) transmitter, using attenuated laser sources for ultra-secure communications;
Development of key national capabilities across three technological pillars:
- Fabrication of photonic chips and integrated photonics systems;
- Full control of the hardware and software required for quantum communication devices;
- High-precision signal synchronization (quantum and classical) using atomic clocks.
Impact
With a focus on scalable, market-ready results, Ntropiq is helping to build Brazil’s quantum communication infrastructure, delivering secure, innovative solutions aligned with the global demand for data protection and advanced telecommunications.
Intelligent Optimization with Applied Quantum Computing
At NtropiQ, we model complex industrial problems — such as chip design or warehouse organization — as physical systems represented by quantum Hamiltonians. From there, we use Quantum Annealing (QA) or Quantum-Inspired Annealing (QIA) techniques to find lower-energy configurations, i.e., the most efficient solutions. The entire process is executed in a cloud computing environment (via AWS + D-Wave Leap), with direct integration with existing tools, such as EDA platforms, making the application of quantum computing simple, safe, and practical for companies.
Partner Institutions
Meet the partner institutions on this journey into the world of Quantum Technologies.
Partner Researchers
Meet the collaborators who brought these research challenges to life.
Celso Villas-Boas
Professor of the Physics Department of the Federal University of São Carlos
