Quantum Table:
A Tangible Quantum Circuit Demonstrator

The way computations are performed on a quantum computer is drastically different to how we think intuitively. Quantum physical concepts such as entanglement, the superposition of states and the measurement process, which are key elements for quantum computing, frequently present a significant challenge for understanding. A plethora of training material is available online, from free books [2] to drag-and-drop quantum circuit simulators such as Quirk [1]. However, these can quickly become overwhelming [4]. Our goal was to lower the entry barrier for a broader audience by designing and implementing a tangible way to interactively explore quantum computing while hiding many details about the theoretical foundations of quantum circuits as well as the physical realization of quantum computers.

We built a tangible quantum circuit simulator in form of a round table offering a playful way to engage with people interested in quantum computing, from students and school children to the technically interested public. The Quantum Table shows a plain quantum circuit grid on its surface where users are invited to physically place blocks that represent quantum operations, which trigger immediate feedback by simulating and visualizing the resulting effects. This solution also includes the sense of touch into the learning experience. The setup is based on the reacTable and reacTIVision frameworks [3], which were originally designed for collaborative live music performances. The Quantum Table uses image recognition to classify the tangible objects placed on it and map them to the corresponding quantum operations. Figure 1 shows a visual explanation of the function on the left and a photo of the physical realization, with a diameter of about 90cm, on the right.