Numerical Electromagnetism

Overview

The use of Focal Plane Array's in the SKA will require significant advances in antenna design. These arrays must operate over a 20:1 frequency range. To achieve this, we propose optimizing focal plane array designs using our world-leading numerical electromagnetism expertise and Genetic Programming algorithms.

Theme Members

• Dr Tim Molteno, Electronics Research, Department of Physics, University of Otago

Graduate Students

• Mr Paul Willians. Ph.D student. Department of Physics, University of Otago

Research Capabilities

The standard antenna simulation software nec2++ is maintained and written by Dr Tim Molteno. This software is used worldwide for antenna design (it is part of most Linux distributions) and has been specifically designed for use in antenna design and optimization systems. Nec2++ has been ported to a wide variety of architectures including PowerPC and we are well positioned to use New Zealand's grid infrastructure and HPC facilities.

We have an extensive codebase of Genetic Programming software for optimization of electromagnetic structures on large MPI-based supercomputers.

International Engagement

This research theme is most closely aligned with the PrepSKA WP2 Programs P5 (Feeds) and P6 (Receivers).