An algebraic interpretation of the multivariate $q$-Krawtchouk polynomials

The multivariate quantum $q$-Krawtchouk polynomials are shown to arise as matrix elements of “$q$-rotations” acting on the state vectors of many $q$-oscillators. The focus is put on the two-variable case. The algebraic interpretation is used to derive the main properties of the polynomials: orthogonality, duality, structure relations, difference equations and recurrence relations. The extension to an arbitrary number of variables is presented