Quantum computing for swarm robotics: a local-to-global approach

Quantum computing is a branch of computer science derived from the fundamental laws of quantum mechanics, such as state superposition, multi-value logic and destructive measure. An open challenge in itself is to re-think in quantum terms classic problems and solving techniques. Another nature-inspired field is the development of swarm-based robotic applications, where the challenge is catching the fundamental laws governing swarm dynamics, such as pattern formation and target reaching. Here, we review some recent approaches on swarm dynamics, the organizational rules of which are formalized according to quantum computing. In this way, the shades of probability in decision-making for multiple-robot systems can be expressed according to the multi-value logic underlying quantum computing. In our review, specific quantum circuits are sketched to give an idea of how these problems have been faced in computational terms. The article is enriched by references to sonification, a strategy adding one more sensory dimension to data representation, a human-friendly tool to navigate the complexity of swarm-robotic movements in a given arena.This article is part of the theme issue 'The road forward with swarm systems'.