Simulation of electromagnetic radiation and scattering using a finite difference-time domain technique

Abstract

The finite difference-time domain (FD-TD) technique is applied to the solution of Maxwell's equations. A computer program, which can be used to simulate and study numerous electromagnetic phenomena, is developed and implemented on an IBM 386 compatible personal computer. The FD-TD technique is a useful tool for students in electromagnetics. The technique is flexible and can be applied to many basic EM scattering and radiation problems. Because field solutions are found as a function of time, visualization of the propagation of the EM fields is possible. The FD-TD technique is implemented for a two-dimensional rectangular grid in conjunction with a second-order absorbing boundary condition. Both E- and H-field polarizations are analyzed. Finite objects consisting of dielectric, magnetic and conducting materials, and perfectly conducting infinite ground planes are modeled. Plane wave and line current sources are implemented. In addition to the capability of animating the propagation of the EM fields, radiation and scattering patterns can be generated.