A novel development in the analysis of electromagnetic scattering from complex structures

The application of computational methods to full-wave solutions of electromagnetic scattering problems at radar frequencies continues to pose substantial challenges to researchers, due to the relatively large electrical sizes involved. Much physical insight, however, may be obtained from 2D analyses. We have developed a body conforming time domain finite element based method, operating over an unstructured grid, which can simulate radar pulse illumination and find the scattered fields and scattering width (2D RCS) of either an entire structure or a small feature on a larger structure, over a wide frequency range. Overcoming the complexity associated with the near-far zone transformation and consequent postprocessing with a 2D unstructured grid code represents a novel contribution to computational methods. We present comparative results for a stepped plate and a NACA0012 aerofoil with a slot, to show that this extension to present 2D code capabilities could be a valuable design facility. Research work include the prediction of scattering from dielectric coated aerofoils and aerofoil features.