A preliminary ray tracing approach to computational electromagnetics for reverberation chambers

This paper summarizes a theoretical design analysis for the implementation of an electromagnetic modelling tool, focussing on the simulation of electromagnetic field propagation inside reverberation chambers. The simulation algorithms which have been developed rely on a ray tracing technique, adapted in such a way as to maximize compatibility with the specific requirements and parameters, as applicable for reverberation chambers. The most significant example of a typical parameter is the high rate of wave reflections inside the chambers´ cavity. An implementation of the algorithms was used for simulation of several theoretically predictable cases. Study of the results of these test cases showed that some of the design decisions and algorithms used, need to be reviewed in order to optimize the computational aspects of the application, such as resource management (memory, CPU time). Results of typical sample cases are reviewed in this paper as well, in order to identify possible pitfalls and objectives for future research.