Wave propagation characterization in complex urban areas using EMTerrano

Because of limitations in the quasi-3D approaches, an investigation has begun into methods for improving the computational efficiency of full 3D ray tracing, so as to make it of practical use in propagation prediction. With this in mind, a full 3D ray tracing algorithm has been incorporated into the propagation simulation tool EMTerrano, developed at EMAG Technologies, Ann Arbor, Michigan. By the application of "intelligent ray tracing", preliminary results are shown in this paper, which testify as to the practicality of using a full 3D ray tracing engine in a propagation simulation tool such as EMTerrano.