Showcasing quantum computing strategy and collaborations between businesses and research institutions

Tokyo – Toppan, a global leader in communication, security, packaging, décor materials, and electronics solutions, will participate in the 2nd QUANTUM COMPUTING EXPO TOKYO [Autumn], which will be held at the Makuhari Messe convention center in Chiba, Japan, from October 27 to 29. Toppan’s booth (7-1) will present the company’s perspective on the application of quantum technologies in society as well as its activities in the field of quantum computing.

Quantum computing is a computer processing technology that uses quantum bits, or “qubits,”1 which exhibit quantum-mechanical properties. Development targeting practical application has been underway since the 1980s, when the principle was first proposed, and it has garnered significant attention as a next-generation computing technology with high processing power. Data processing in classical computing has thus far been supported by the miniaturization of semiconductors to achieve higher speeds, but methods for enhancing processing power based on miniaturization are approaching their limit. Increased interest in next-generation computing based on a new principle is therefore prompting accelerated development of quantum computing technology around the world.

Toppan turned its attention to the potential of quantum computing technology at an early stage and is now working with research institutions, businesses, and other organizations to advance wide-ranging efforts leveraging the technology in diverse fields, such as development of new materials and enhancement of operational process efficiency.

There is, however, a risk that quantum computing could be used to decrypt highly sensitive communications, such as electronic payments and digital application forms containing personal data. Uncrackable encryption technologies will therefore be required as society is faced with the challenge of bolstering security.

Through the development and manufacture of smart cards, Toppan has accumulated a range of related security technologies, including encryption, authentication, and unauthorized access prevention. Leveraging this expertise, Toppan is working to advance the establishment of a safe and secure society in the age of quantum computing through support for equipping smart cards with post-quantum public key cryptography2 and expanding the use of quantum secure cloud technology. Toppan also intends to provide services and solutions including secure backup and data distribution for highly sensitive digital information.

Taking advantage of quantum computing technology in an array of fields, Toppan aims to enable a sustainable society and enhance corporate value as a leader in providing solutions to social issues globally through Digital Transformation (DX) and Sustainable Transformation (SX).

Details of the Toppan booth at QUANTUM COMPUTING EXPO TOKYO [Autumn]

(1) Diagram presenting an overview of the implementation of quantum technologies in society
The diagram will present Toppan’s take on quantum technology-related hardware and software, applications, and fields in which it can be implemented in society.

(2) Four-way collaboration on quantum secure cloud technology
Toppan is collaborating with the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), QunaSys Inc. (QunaSys) and ISARA Corporation (ISARA). The project aims to devise and propose a specific structure and operational framework for quantum secure cloud technology suitable for practical use, with consideration for elements including management of keys and access rights. The four organizations will identify the requirements for devising and verifying use cases for quantum secure cloud technology.

(3) Joint development to equip smart cards with post-quantum public key cryptography
Toppan and ISARA are working together to equip smart cards with post-quantum public key cryptography and conduct technical verification of the use of such smart cards to control and manage access. The project aims to develop a program enabling algorithms that generate and authenticate digital signatures for post-quantum public key cryptography, and to then apply the program to smart cards and verify functionality. The two companies will also carry out technical verification of digital authentication using smart cards equipped with post-quantum public key cryptography.

(4) Collaboration to enhance the efficiency of logistics
Toppan and Tohoku University startup Sigma-i are conducting a pilot test on leveraging the results of joint research into quantum annealing to enhance the efficiency of logistics. The project aims to develop a delivery planning optimization system using quantum computing technologies by linking up with MITATE®,3 a system offered by Toppan Group company Toppan Cosmo to enhance operational efficiency and visibility. Toppan and Sigma-i will verify the system’s effectiveness for reducing time and increasing accuracy for delivery planning.

(5) Creation of new material development framework
Toppan’s booth will present the approach for material development being advanced in collaboration with QunaSys. The initiative involves creating a platform for the design and development of materials by establishing a cross-sectional, scalable material development data management system that takes full advantage of the power of quantum technologies. The goal is to create new businesses based on Toppan’s resources and QunaSys’s technologies.

Reference panel: Quantum Key Distribution System
A life-size photograph of a quantum key distribution system provided by Toshiba Digital Solutions Corporation will also be on display in Toppan’s booth.

1. A quantum bit or qubit is the basic unit of information in quantum computing. A feature of qubits is their exhibiting complex states, such as superposition and entanglement.
2. Post-quantum public key cryptography is a public key cryptography technology that cannot be decrypted even by quantum computing technologies.
3. MITATE is a registered trademark of LAMPLIGHT Co., Ltd., a collaborative partner of Toppan Cosmo.

About the QUANTUM COMPUTING EXPO TOKYO [Autumn]

Dates: October 27 to 29, 2021
Times: 10:00–17:00
Venue: Makuhari Messe
Organizer: RX Japan Ltd.
https://www.qc-expo-at.jp/en-gb.html