Introduction to the Segmented Finite-Difference Time-Domain Method

In order to estimate path loss in various infrastructure types, tunnels, water distribution networks, and bridges, we have chosen the well-known finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) technique due to its accuracy, flexibility, and potential for visualizing the simulation results. However, problems occur owing to the high memory requirement and heavy computational burden when dealing with these large-scale systems using this technique. Following our previous work on the unique correction factor, which enables us to transform a simply structured 3-D FDTD problem into a 2-D simulation using the modified 2-D FDTD method, in this paper, we propose the segmented FDTD (SFDTD), which divides the problem space into segments so that the computational redundancy is reduced. This technique also facilitates data reuse that eases the inconvenience imposed by configuration changes at a later date.