RUS  ENG
Full version
JOURNALS // Problemy Peredachi Informatsii // Archive

Probl. Peredachi Inf., 2025 Volume 61, Issue 2, Pages 50–68 (Mi ppi2441)

Large Systems

Reducing discrete optimization problems to the QUBO form

A. M. Semenovab, S. R. Usmanovab, A. K. Fedorovab

a Russian Quantum Center, Moscow
b “Cloud Quantum Technologies” LLC, Moscow

Abstract: Practical discrete optimization problems often contain multidimensional arrays of variables with linear constraints, which complicates their conversion to QUBO (quadratic unconstrained binary optimization) form. The article proposes a systematic approach to transforming such problems, which includes three key steps: the transition from a multidimensional representation of variables to a one-dimensional one using the Kronecker product of matrices, the reduction of mixed variables to binary ones, and the introduction of linear constraints into the objective function through quadratic penalties. Explicit computational formulas are obtained for each stage, simplifying their software implementation. The developed method is illustrated with examples from graph theory and combinatorial optimization, including classical formulations, confirming its universality. The results of the article allow standardizing the process of adapting problems for solving on quantum annealing algorithms (e.g., D-Wave) and classical QUBO solvers.

Keywords: quadratic unconstrained binary optimization (QUBO), Ising model, adiabatic quantum computations, combinatorial optimization.

UDC: 621.391 : 519.854

Received: 30.04.2025
Revised: 14.05.2025
Accepted: 18.08.2025

DOI: 10.31857/S0555292325020041



© Steklov Math. Inst. of RAS, 2026