A computational method for modeling arbitrary junctions employing different surface integral equation formulations for three-dimensional scattering and radiation problems

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel MoM-based computational method for modeling complex three-dimensional electromagnetic scattering and radiation involving arbitrary junctions between different surface types, without duplicating unknowns on interfaces.

Contribution

It presents a generalized SIE formulation for junctions that avoids duplicating unknowns and simplifies implementation in existing MoM codes, enhancing accuracy and software efficiency.

Findings

Validated with real-world antenna measurements

Accurate modeling of complex junctions in electromagnetic problems

Easy integration into existing MoM software tools

Abstract

This paper presents a new method, based on the well-known method of moments (MoM), for the numerical electromagnetic analysis of scattering and radiation from metallic or dielectric structures, or both structure types in the same simulation, that are in contact with other metallic or dielectric structures. The proposed method for solving the MoM junction problem consists of two separate algorithms, one of which comprises a generalization for bodies in contact of the surface integral equation (SIE) formulations. Unlike some other published SIE generalizations in the field of computational electromagnetics, this generalization does not require duplicating unknowns on the dielectric separation surfaces. Additionally, this generalization is applicable to any ordinary single-scatterer SIE formulations employed as baseline. The other algorithm deals with enforcing boundary conditions and Kirchhoff's Law, relating the surface current flow across a junction edge. Two important features inherent to this latter algorithm consist of a mathematically compact description in matrix form, and, importantly from a software engineering point of view, an easy implementation in existing MoM codes which makes the debugging process more comprehensible. A practical example involving a real grounded monopole antenna for airplane-satellite communication is analyzed for validation purposes by comparing with precise measurements covering different electrical sizes.