Computational Electromagnetics

The Computational Electromagnetics group (CEM) deals primarily with electromagnetic field problems. By applying Maxwell’s equations, we can determine magnetic as well as electric fields and thus, in theory, discover everything about the electrical behaviour of appliances. Simple mathematics can still be used to determine these fields in simple objects, but ‘real’ world technological problems require numerical solutions. Hence the term ‘computational’ in the name of the research group.

If we are given the configuration for the problem but the fields still need to be calculated, we talk of ‘forward problems’. If the electromagnetic fields have already been measured and we need to determine the configuration, we are then dealing with ‘inverse problems’. The chips found in computers and other appliances are good examples of a forward problem. The AC current frequencies increase as the measurements become increasingly smaller. This causes the circuits to emit an increasing amount of electromagnetic radiation, which may induce interference in other circuits (this is known as ‘cross-talk’). In order to be able to account for this, new models are required.

A project for tracking plastic land mines, since completed, is an example of a project using inverse modelling. With the aid of reflections from electromagnetic waves, we can determine where, and how deep underground, the mine is located. This requires the use of both forward and inverse modelling. These models can also be used for detecting tumours, heart imaging and scanning luggage, as well as for other general security purposes.

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