Higher Order Electromagnetic Modeling for Wireless Technology Applications

This paper presents our development of novel higher order electromagnetic (EM) modeling techniques for wireless technology applications based on the method of moments (MoM), finite element method (FEM), and physical optics (PO). Modern wireless systems involve electrically large EM structures (antennas, circuits, and components) that are very complex in both geometry and material composition. There is a clear need for advanced analysis and design tools for predicting the performance and optimizing the parameters of such structures prior to costly prototype development. In addition, EM tools are needed for indoor and outdoor propagation modeling, for assessing EM interactions with human bodies, etc. These tools have to be very accurate and reliable. Wireless designers also demand that the simulation techniques be fast and run on relatively small computing platforms, such as standard desktop PCs. Generally, MoM is very efficient at modeling of open-region (e.g., antenna/scattering) problems, while FEM is an excellent choice for modeling of closed-region (e.g., waveguide/cavity) problems. Finally, PO is extremely cost effective for structures that include electrically very large surfaces with slowly varying currents, especially when hybridized with MoM.