Postgrads I have dubiously supervised.

Alan Robert Clark

October 11, 2012

1  Thomas Abbott (Jun 2012—)

Design of a smart HF antenna with multiple pattern capabilities using characteristic modes

(M.Sc. by Dissertation)

Project Proposal—This research proposal is for the study of a method of analysis of antennas called the theory of Characteristic Modes. Characteristic modes are a set of fundamental orthogonal current distributions on an antenna, which are a function of the geometry and are expressed independent of excitation. It is proposed that the method is studied and then implemented in software, to allow the modes of an antenna to be calculated. Using the software, a demonstration antenna will be designed by analysis of its characteristic modes. The antenna will be simulated in the conventional way to evaluate its effectiveness. A thesis will be written on the theory and practice of characteristic modes, and the design and performance of the demonstration antenna.

2  Christopher Crone (Jan 2010—)(In abeyance)

Computational Electromagnetics on Beowulf Clusters

(M.Sc. by Dissertation)

Project Proposal—As is the trend with scientific modelling, electromagnetic simulations are now being conducted on parallel computing clusters. This both decreases the required computation time as well as increases the size of problems that can be tackled. Of particular interest in the field is the use of inexpensive Beowulf-class clusters. The student proposes that a comparison between competing electromagnetic simulation packages FEKO and SuperNEC should be done on such a cluster. The comparison should include performance differences and recommendations for when to use each. Prior to this, SuperNEC requires to be updated for the cluster and its performance improved through the use of newer libraries and compilers. There are also proposed improvements to the cluster which include the use of different networking topologies and intra-node communication optimisation. Using the knowledge gained, recommendations will be made for future clusters.

3  Benjamin Klein (Reprise) (Jun 2009—)

Modelling and development of ultra-wide-band receivers for general radio astronomy systems

(Ph.D.)

Project Proposal—Radio astronomical systems have very high sensitivity requirements, and often require cooled receiver systems (at a minimum the LNA). The trend towards multiple antenna elements (SKA) and wideband future geodesy (VLBI2010), favour, economically, ultra wideband feed systems. The multitude of available LNAs, feed systems (primary and secondary) and feeding networks make the optimal choice complex. It is not possible to build and test all the possible combinations, so reliable models are required. The project proposed is to develop, model and test an ultra-wide band system, along with modelling various feeds and feeding systems.

4  Andrew Polasek (Jan 2009—)(In abeyance)

Design and Automation of a Pre-Compliance EMC Test Facility

(M.Sc. by Dissertation)

Project Proposal—Electromagnetic compatibility is of particular importance in the modern electronic engineering industry. Strict standards have been imposed by governments and international organisations to ensure that the limited radio frequency spectrum is not swamped by aggressors. At the same time, new electronic devices developed must be able to function correctly in their intended environment. The only way to ensure products meet the standards and can operate as intended, is to test them. This paper presents methods to implement a highly accurate 3m pre-compliance test facility, by making use of a fully anechoic chamber, a suitably optimized antenna for use from 30–3000 MHz, a vector network analyser and appropriate automation systems. Sources emitting a known field strength are used to determine the error margin of the system.

5  Heather Fraser (Jan 2007—Apr 2010), Grad June 2010

Parametrisation and Design of Quadrifilar Helices for use in S-band Satellite Communications

(M.Sc. by Dissertation), available at http://wiredspace.wits.ac.za/bitstream/handle/10539/8364/Msc_fraser_diss.pdf

Abstract—This paper is a discussion on the Multiturn Quadrifilar Helix Antenna (QHA) with particular focus on its application as a ground station antenna for S-band communications with a Low Earth Orbit Satellite. A ground station antenna without a tracking system requires a “saddle” shaped, circularly polarised radiation pattern in order to compensate for the change in distance between it and the antenna on the satellite. The Multiturn Quadrifilar Helix can provide this radiation pattern with correct setting of the parameters of pitch, radius and number of turns. The QHA was simulated according to the adjustment of these parameters and the results were assessed. The most suitable results were found for the antennas with low to mid range of number of turns, radii less than 0.22λ and pitch less than 0.6λ. A QHA with 3 turns, pitch of 0.6λ and radius of 0.034λ was suitable for satellite communications. Simulations showed it to have a gain of 6.16dB at 52 and −2.25dB at 0. Three separate feed networks: a corporate feed network, 90−180 Hybrid combination and Wilkinson splitter feed network, for the QHA were designed. The antenna was constructed for each feed network and tested. The constructed antennas all had gains less than predicted by simulation. The QHA using the Corporate Feed network had a gain of approximately 10dB less than expected. The QHA using the 90− 180 Hybrid combination feed network had a gain of approximately 8dB less than expected. The best performing QHA was fed by the Wilkinson splitter feed network. It showed good comparison to the shape of the pattern found in simulation but a gain of approximately 6dB lower than expected.

6  Michael Nash (Jan 2007—Mar 2009, Grad June 2009. )

New Manufacturing Techniques for Antennas

(M.Sc. by Dissertation), available at http://wiredspace.wits.ac.za/bitstream/handle/10539/7397/Msc_nash_diss.pdf

Abstract—This paper is a discussion of new manufacturing techniques for antennas. Many existing manufacturing methods, including conductive ink printing, plastic plating, hot foil printing, etching, sintering and die cutting, are investigated to determine their usefulness in the manufacture of antennas. The advantages and disadvantages of each are discussed, and the most promising method—plating on plastic—is further analysed. The method of adapting the plating technique so that it can be used for antennas is discussed. Two prototype antennas (a PIFA and omni antenna) were manufactured to test the plating method’s effectiveness as a manufacturing technique for antennas. Results showed a frequency shifted VSWR pattern for the PIFA antenna of 10% on each notch. The gain plot for the omni antenna showed a higher gain for the plated antenna at a frequency shifted by approximately 0.4 GHz. A cost analysis was also performed to complete the investigation of the new manufacturing method. A saving of up to 4 000% can be realised on the substrate material, and the metal costs can be lowered by 700% for each PIFA antenna.

7  Mmamolatelo Mathekga (Jan 2006—Mar 2008, Grad Nov 2008)

Formulations for Analysis of Probe-Fed Printed Antennas in SuperNEC

(M.Sc. by Dissertation), available from http://wiredspace.wits.ac.za/bitstream/handle/10539/6841/msc_dissertation_me_mathekga.pdf

Abstract—Formulations for analysis of printed antenna structures are derived and compared, to determine one to implemented in SuperNEC based on the efficiency of its numerical solution in terms of memory usage and solution time. SuperNEC is a software application for computing the response of electromagnetic structures to electromagnetic fields. SuperNEC cannot be used for simulation of printed antenna structures. This is because the formulation that is implemented in SuperNEC does not account for the effect of the substrates that the radiating elements of the antenna structure are printed on, and it is also not intended for antenna structures whose radiating elements are surfaces. Two MoM (Method of Moments) formulations and a FEM (Finite Element Method)-MoM formulation are presented, together with different models for the antenna feed. The FEM-MoM formulation is selected for implementation in SuperNEC because it is argued that it is likely to be more memory efficient when compared to the MoM formulations, and also that less time is required to fill the matrices resulting from the numerical solution of the formulation. The formulation is implemented in a stand alone software application, which will be integrated into SuperNEC. Numerical results that are computed using the software application are presented to illustrate correct implementation of the formulation. The results are compared to: an exact solution, results from another publication, and results computed using a different formulation. Good agreement is obtained in each case.

8  Robert Hartleb (Aug 2005—Jul 2006, Grad Dec 2006)

Optimised Ray Tracing for the SuperNEC Implementation of the Uniform Theory of Diffraction

(M.Sc. by Dissertation), available from http://wiredspace.wits.ac.za/bitstream/handle/10539/2121/MasterThesis.pdf

Abstract—Geometric optimisations are presented for the UTD in SuperNEC which is a commercial electromagnetic software package. Path finding optimisations rapidly find propagation paths of electromagnetic waves by using back face culling to determine the visible plates of polyhedral structures and by using reflection and diffraction zones which use image theory and the law of diffraction to determine illuminated spatial regions. An octree reduces the number of intersections during the shadow tests. Numerical results show that overall the optimisations halve the run time of the software for models which consist of plates and cylinders. The path finding optimisations do not scale with model size, are limited to plates and introduce errors. The mean absolute error due to the path finding optimisations is on average 0.02 dB for first order rays and 0.17 dB for second order rays. The octree optimisation scales with model size, can be used with any geometry and any type of ray and does not cause errors.

9  David Rice (Apr 2005—Mar 2008, Grad Nov 2008)

Analysing Lightning Data from Two Spatially Separate Magnetic Direction Finders

(Co-supervised M.Sc. by Dissertation), available at http://wiredspace.wits.ac.za/bitstream/handle/10539/6776/DavidRice_MSc.pdf

Abstract—Two lightning detectors, of the magnetic direction finder type, form part of a two station system for determining the position of lightning strikes. The detectors are on a baseline of approximately 600 m, and the ultimate aim of the system is to accurately detect and map lightning within a radius of 30 km. Although no real time capability is present, the archive data collected from each separate station is used to find the offset errors in the azimuthal orientation, as well as in time (using processes described in Appendix A). The relative offset errors are determined by shifting the time and azimuthal information for one station’s data and calculating the maximum possible matching records (within certain time and azimuth criteria) for each incremental shift. An analysis of the peaks in total matching records, when plotted against the relevant shift increments, is performed in order to obtain the values of the offset errors. Between the two individual stations, the relative offset in orientation is found to be 24.5 degrees, and in time to be 0.001305 days (112.75 seconds). The individual stations, as well as the triangulated data calculated from matching records, can also be calibrated using data from the South African Weather Service Lightning Detection Network (SAWSLDN). Individual station calibration indicated an offset of +6.4 degrees and 0.00575 days (496.8 seconds) for Station 1, with the offsets for Station 2 determined as +29.4 degrees and −0.000105 days (9.07 seconds). Comparison of triangulated data to SAWSLDN data yields unexpected results with regard to resultant shifts, which may point to an error or anomaly in the triangulation calculations. A detailed analysis of the storm data is contained in Appendix B of the dissertation.

10  Neil O’Leary (Feb 2005—Dec 2006, Grad May 2007)

A SuperNEC Implementation of Model Based Parameter Estimation by Interpolating the Method of Moments Impedance Matrix

(M.Sc. by Dissertation), available at http://wiredspace.wits.ac.za/bitstream/handle/10539/5877/NEIL_OLEARY_MSC_DISSERTATION.PDF

Abstract—SuperNEC is a method of moments (MoM) electromagnetic field solver based on the Numerical Electromagnetics Code (NEC). Much of the simulation time can be attributed to the filling of the impedance matrix, which is performed at each frequency point of interest. Impedance matrix interpolation methods have been implemented in SuperNEC to reduce the computational time required to fill the impedance matrix [Z]. Elements in [Z] vary predictably over frequency and can be approximated by a second order polynomial. A second improved method is implemented where the dominant frequency variation term is removed prior to calculating the fitting function. A method of determining the optimum sample range relative to simulation range and maximum interaction distance has been developed. Given the correct choice of sample range the mean error in the MoM solution is less than 10% over the frequency range and the input impedance can be reproduced with good agreement over a wide bandwidth. Improvement in the simulation electromagnetic efficiency of 1.7 times can be expected if sufficient frequency points are of interest to account for the computational time required to sample the matrix and determine fitting function coefficients. This method has been applied to a dipole antenna, an LPDA and a horn antenna. To increase the simulation bandwidth and retain an acceptable level of accuracy, the bandwidth is split into multiple sub-bands.

11  Kam Hay Claren Chan (Jul 2004—Mar 2005, Grad Dec 2005)

Antenna Optimization using Particle Swarm Optimization

(M.Sc. by Coursework and Research Report)

Abstract—The feasibility of using the particle swarm optimisation (PSO) algorithm in SuperNEC, an antenna simulation software application, is investigated in this paper. Previous research shows that the use of PSO in optimising antenna design is promising for specific applications. A program that uses this optimisation method is developed. The effect of using different population size, social and cognitive factors, weights implementation, velocity and boundaries on the algorithm performance are investigated. The algorithm is then compared with the previously developed genetic algorithm (GA) and simulated annealing (SA) optimiser. The comparison shows that the PSO optimised better than the other algorithms on average by at least 20%.

12  Benjamin Klein (Mar 2004—, Grad Nov 2008)

Holographic measurement of the 26m HartRAO telescope

(M.Sc. by Dissertation), available from http://wiredspace.wits.ac.za/bitstream/handle/10539/6936/Benjamin_Klein_Msc_Dissertation.pdf

Abstract—Microwave holography is a well established method of using the Fourier relationship between an antenna’s current distribution and its complex beam-pattern to produce surface maps of large parabolic antennas. As the final part of a surface upgrade, a holographic map of the HartRAO 26 m telescope was produced. This showed that the surface has an RMS error of 0.45 mm. The measurement used a small reference dish to correlate against and retrieve amplitude and phase values. Due to system phase instabilities, this dish had to be attached to the measured antenna in order to enable sharing a high frequency local oscillator (LO). The movement was modelled and corrected for. However, a slight distortion remained. It is recommended that, either the LO distribution system is stabilised by using multiple PLLs or amplifiers and low loss cables are used to enable moving the reference antenna to a stationary position.

13  Una Perovic (Jan 2004—Apr 2005)

Waveguide-based Antennas

(M.Sc. by Dissertation)

Abstract—Investigations of slotted waveguide antenna arrays operating at 2.45GHz and their applications to wireless local area networks (WLAN) are presented in this paper. Requirements, considerations, and limitations associated with the design process are discussed and presented. Various antenna parameters were simulated using MATLAB and SuperNEC software simulation programs, and were applied to a sensitivity analysis of antenna design. End-fed and centre-fed antennas were designed, built, and measured at WLAN frequencies. The antennas had high gain above 19dBi, broad beam around the azimuth, and high efficiency, but were limited by their impedance dependency and narrow bandwidth. The centre-fed antenna had 3dBi higher gain than the 19dBi gain of the end-fed antenna. The VSWR ratio of both antennas was less than 1:1.5 at the operating frequency. The centre-fed antenna had broader azimuth and elevation patterns by 40 and 10, respectively. The end-fed antenna had more stable gain and VSWR, 50% wider VSWR bandwidth, and more directional elevation pattern. Measurements and test results were consistent with theoretical and simulated antenna characteristics, and they validated the analysis of the antenna performance.

14  Brian Whittaker (Jan 2004—Feb 2005, Grad Dec 2005)

Wireless LAN modelling tool

(M.Sc. by Dissertation)

Abstract—For the effective implementation of a wireless local area network (WLAN) within a building, a complete understanding of indoor signal propagation is required. This paper compares three empirical propagation prediction models with regards to efficiency and accuracy. To achieve this, a software prediction tool was developed using C++ which allows an end user to quickly draw a building floor plan using user specified drawing materials. It also has the ability to calculate the required empirical parameters from entered measurements but this was found to produce results similar to that when theoretical empirical parameters were used. The accuracy of the prediction tool was gauged by comparing its outputs, using the different empirical models, to measurements. In doing so it was determined that two of the models produced functional levels of accuracy in which 93% and 82% of the simulated results were within 15 and 10 dB of the measured results respectively for the most accurate of the models used. All three empirical models were found to have computational times low enough, less than 5 minutes for an average building, as to allow for interactive WLAN design.

15  Jonathan Berger (Jan 2004—Mar 2005, Grad Dec 2005)

Low Cost Direction Finding with the Electronically Steerable Parasitic Array Radiator (ESPAR) Antenna

(M.Sc. by Dissertation)

Abstract—In this paper, the Electronically Steerable Parasitic Array Radiator (ESPAR) antenna, developed by the Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute (ATR) in Japan, was analysed to determine its feasibility as a low cost direction finding (DF) system. Simulations of the antenna were performed in SuperNEC and Matlab was used to determine the direction of arrival (DOA) using the Reactance Domain multiple signal classification (MUSIC) algorithm. Results show the ideal configuration has 6 parasitic elements with a diameter of 0.5λ. Up to 5 periodic, uncorrelated signals spread 360 in azimuth and above 45 elevation produce sharp peaks in the MUSIC spectra. Azimuth separations of only 2 at 40dB are resolvable while signals arriving with 25% full power are still detectable. For the DOA to be resolved the radiation pattern should be asymmetrical and hence the reactance set should have a range of unequal values. Comparative results show that the 6 element ESPAR offers excellent overall performance despite the reduction in cost and is comparable in performance to the 6 element uniform linear array.

16  Wayne Jennings (Jan 2003—June 2004, Grad Dec 2004)

An Investigation and Study into Circularly Polarised Wide-Bandwidth Antennas

(M.Sc. by Dissertation)

Abstract—With the increase in wireless data communication over the last few years, there has been an increased need for wide-bandwidth capabilities in antenna and hardware systems. The quasi-taper axial mode helical antenna and bifilar Archimedian spiral antenna both exhibit wide bandwidth capabilities with a 2:1 bandwidth ratio shown by the helical antenna and well over 10:1 capable with the spiral antenna. The investigations completed on the antennas attempted to extract design guidelines and characteristics that could be incorporated into a design wizard running on a Method-of-Moments simulation package. These guidelines would be used to predict properties such as gain, bandwidth and VSWR of the respective antennas. While the gain observed for the spiral was relatively static and difficult to vary, that of the helical antenna could be varied easily with a change in axial length. The bandwidth of the spiral was found to be extensive, chiefly dependant on the inner feed and outermost radii; while that of the helix was limited to a maximum of 2:1 when a ratio of 1.41 for the radius of upper to lower helical sections was used. With both antennas being travelling-wave structures, they both exhibit a purely real input impedance which can be matched effectively with a microstrip transmission line.

17  Gareth Shaw (Jan 2003—Mar 2005, Grad May 2005) (Part-time)

Patch Antenna Design Wizard

(M.Sc. by Dissertation)

Abstract—This paper describes the formulation of a design procedure for the rectangular, probe-fed and rectangular, electromagnetically coupled patch antennas. The design procedure is presented in the form of design curves. The design curve data was generated by solving a bandwidth optimization problem subject to a specified minimum gain constraint. Given a particular performance requirement, an appropriate antenna geometry can be found using the design curves. An unavoidable tradeoff between the gain and impedance bandwidth performance parameters is evident from the design curves. The bandwidth and minimum gain configurations for design of the probe-fed patch range from 6.2% and 9.9dBi to 13.2% and 6.1dBi respectively. The bandwidth and minimum gain configurations for design of the electromagnetically coupled patch range from 9.5% and 9.7dBi to 44% and 6.0dBi respectively.

18  Ryan Lishman (? 2002—Jun2004, Grad Dec 2004)(Part-time)

An Algorithm for the Automatic Resolution of the position, Orientation and Dipole Moment of a Magnetic Dipole Antenna Buried in Rock.

(M.Sc. by Coursework and Project Report)

Abstract—In this paper, an algorithm for resolving the position, orientation and dipole moment of a transmitting dipole antenna buried in rock is presented. The algorithm is based on simplified radiation equations that are shown to be valid within a region of space in the extreme near field surrounding the antenna termed quasi-static region. Within this region, medium dependent propagation effects are negligible, allowing accurate, medium independent resolution of position, orientation and dipole moment.

The magnetic field magnitude and direction values observed at a number of arbitrarily located points in space are used by the algorithm to generate a system of nonlinear equations. This system of equations is solved using a simultaneous multi-variable Newton-Raphson solver with line searches and backtracking providing a measure of global convergence. An additional method, based on an iterated random search, further improves the global convergence capability of the algorithm.

If the dipole moment of the transmitting antenna is known, measurements from two observer points are sufficient to resolve the position and orientation of the dipole. If the dipole moment is unknown, three observer points are required to solve for the unknown position, orientation and dipole moment. The algorithm is able to find an exact solution using exact theoretical measurements, and a minimised least squares solution where measurements are subject to noise.

The theory relating to the algorithm is discussed including distance-frequency relations for the quasi-static region of a number of common rock types. Probabilistic modelling, simulation and test results of the algorithm are also included.

19  Adrian Adams (Deregistered)(Part-time)

Centre of Rotation Determination for ISAR Imaging.

(M.Sc. by Dissertation)

Project Proposal—This investigation proposes a solution to the problem of centre of rotation determination of ISAR images. This problem is essentially an inverse problem whereby the 2d ISAR image of an observed target undergoing some arbitrary 3d motion in space has to be used in finding the centre of rotation of the image. A solution would aid non-cooperative target recognition (NCTR) algorithms minimize their search area when trying to compare images of a current target against a target database. The problem required that translational motion compensation and minimum entropy methods be incorporated in order to auto-focus the ISAR images so that the point scatterer features could be extracted. The point scatterer histories were then processed to calculate the COR of the ISAR image. The computational intensity of many of the processing blocks recommend optimization strategies such as advanced search algorithms and parallelization.

20  Brandon Orchard (Jan 2001–Mar 2002, Grad Dec 2002)

Optimizing Algorithms for Antenna Design

(M.Sc. by Dissertation)

Abstract—In this paper two global optimisation techniques namely, the Genetic Algorithm and Simulated Annealing were investigated. These techniques were programmed in and implemented in SuperNEC which is an Electromagnetics Method of Moments software simulation program. The optimisation techniques were then applied to the 5, 6, 12 and 15 element yagi antennas by firstly varying only element lengths and then by varying element lengths and the spacing between them. The optimisation techniques were also applied to the 5, 15 and 35 turn axial mode helix antennas by varying the spacing between turns and the radius of the turns. The results showed improvements to the classical designs in both cases for both optimisation techniques. Comparisons between the two optimisation techniques showed that the Genetic Algorithm worked more effectively in terms of results obtained and efficiently in terms of run time. The tests also indicated that the Genetic Algorithm works effectively up to at least a problem with 2.43× 1012 possible solutions, while Simulated Annealing could only consistently handle a problem of about half this size.

21  David MauMau (Jan 2001–) (De-registered)

An RF and Antenna Systems Toolbox

(M.Sc. by Dissertation)

Project Proposal—Radio frequency (RF) and antenna system toolbox is to be designed and implemented for the MATLAB environment. The toolbox will contain several antenna design wizards, based on various design parameters. The design parameters have to be user-interfaced and the research component of this project is based on the investigation of the user interface required for the implementation of the antenna design wizards. The research outcome must define the best method of interfacing the design parameters to the user. For example, design curves may be suitable for the design of certain antennas, whereas ordinary parameter fields will be suitable in some cases. The toolbox must be implemented and tested against actual measurement results done on certain antennas and also against ease-of-use. The toolbox must also have access to the structure assemblies in SuperNEC and enable the user to simulate antennas without direct access to SuperNEC (SuperNEC is an antenna analysis program).

22  Renier Dreyer (Jan 2000–Jun 2009, Grad Dec 2009)

The Development of a New Preconditioner by Modifying the Simply Sparse Compression Matrix to Solve Electromagnetic Method of Moments Problems

(M.Sc. by Dissertation, converted to PhD registration, converted to Part Time), available at http://wiredspace.wits.ac.za/bitstream/handle/10539/7508/RLDreyer_Thesis.pdf

Abstract—The aim of this research was to improve the matrix solution methods for SuperNEC MoM problems, which is an electromagnetic simulation software package used to model antennas, and develop a new preconditioner for the iterative method BICGSTAB(L). This was achieved by firstly implementing the ATLAS BLAS library optimised for a specific computer architecture. The ATLAS code primarily makes use of code generation to build and optimise applications. Comparisons show that the matrix solution times using LU decomposition optimised by ATLAS is improved by between 4.1 and 4.6 times, providing a good coding platform from which to compare other techniques. Secondly the BICGSTAB iterative solution method in SuperNEC was improved by making use of an alternative algorithm BICGSTAB(L). Systems of equations that converged slowly or not at all using BICGSTAB, converged more quickly when using BICGSTAB(L) with L set to 4, despite the high condition numbers in the coefficient matrices. Thirdly a domain decomposition method, Simply Sparse, was characterised. Investigations showed that Simply Sparse is a good compression technique for SuperNEC MoM matrices. The custom Simply Sparse solver also solves large matrix problems more quickly than LU decomposition and scales well with increased problem sizes. LU decomposition is still however quicker for problems smaller than 7000 unknowns as the overheads in compressing the coefficient matrices dominate the Simply Sparse method for small problems. Lastly a new preconditioner for BICGSTAB(L) was developed using a modified form of the Simply Sparse matrix. This was achieved by considering the Simply Sparse matrix to be equivalent to the full coefficient matrix [A] . The largest 1% to 2% of the Simply Sparse elements was selected to form the basis of the preconditioning matrix. These elements were further modified by multiplying them by a large constant i.e. 1× 107 . The system of equations was then solved using BICGSTAB(L) with L set to 4. The new preconditioned BICGSTAB(L) algorithm is quicker than both LU decomposition and the custom Simply Sparse solution method for problems larger than 5000 unknowns.

23  Jürgen Dresel (Jan 1998–Jun 2000)

Investigations of Soft Magnetic Materials and a Simulation Technique to Develop Conformal Antennas in the HF and V/UHF Frequency Range

(M.Sc. by Dissertation)

Abstract—This paper presents a novel conformal antenna concept. Soft magnetic materials are used to suppress currents on conductive surfaces in order to realise conformal antennas. An initial material selection is undertaken to identify suitable materials. A numerical modelling technique is developed to analyse antennas of this kind. The modelling technique is verified by comparing simulated and measured antenna characteristics. An initial feasibility assessment is performed by comparing conventional antennas to antennas utilising the new antenna concept. Vitroperm 500 F is identified as the most suitable material. Good comparison between measured and simulated results was obtained, verifying the simulation technique that was developed. In addition to conformity the new antenna promises up to 15dB higher radiation efficiency in the frequency band from 30 to 88MHz when compared to commercially-available aircraft antennas in this frequency band.

24  Leonard Ikemefuna Onwuegbuna (Jan 1997–2007)

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LOG PERIODIC DIPOLE ARRAY

(Multi-supervised, M.Sc. by Dissertation), available at http://wiredspace.wits.ac.za/bitstream/handle/10539/2164/0Abstract.pdf

Abstract—The performance of the Log Periodic dipole array antenna has been characterized, in the form of parametric curves available in most antenna design handbooks and other relevant literature. These characteristic curves are often limiting in scope, as for instance they do not contain parametric curves giving the relationship between the boom-length ’L’ and the number of dipole element ’N’ for any given bandwidth, even when it is known that these two parameters are the main cost determinants of a LPDA Antenna. The concept of convergence is introduced to aid cost optimization of the LPDA Antenna in terms of number of dipole element ’N’. Although ’N’ is used as the minimization criterion, the criteria for establishing convergence encompass all the main electrical characteristics of the LPDA Antenna, such as VSWR, gain and radiation patterns. Lastly, the effects of boom impedance ’Zo’ and length to diameter ration ’Ln/Dn’, on the performance characteristics of the LPDA Antenna was investigated with the view to determining if neglecting the effects of these two parameters were responsible for the disparity in the directive gain values obtained by R. L Carrel compared to those obtained by later researchers. The investigation indicates that if an LPDA Antenna is converged, then the effects of Zo and Ln/Dn ratio though significant can not alone account for the fairly large disparity in the gain values. In other to perform these investigations, a modern scientific tool in the form of numerical modelling by method of moments based, Super Numerical electromagnetic code version2 was utilized. The numerical modelling tool was first validated by agreement between measured values and the values as predicted by the modelling tool. Next, simulation of the performance of LPDA antennas under variations of their number of elements was done. Thereafter, the means and standard deviations of the gain were extracted from the simulated numerical models. Trends in the pattern of variation of the means and standard deviations of the gain are used as the basis for deciding the value of number of element at which the antenna can yield acceptable performance (convergence criteria). These are presented as convergence curves, which gives for any given boom-length and operating bandwidth, the minimum number of elements required for the antenna to yield acceptable performance. Finally, the effect of length to diameter ratio and boom-impedance on the gain of optimized LPDA antennas are presented as parametric curves.

25  Ashley Gavin Levin (Jan1997–Jun 2000)

Re-engineering CASED, a machines and drives modelling and simulation environment

(Co-supervised, M.Sc. by Dissertation)

Abstract—CASED, a drive simulation tool, is re-engineered to allow non-specialist users to model and analyse complex drive systems. A comprehensive analysis of the original system is performed to identify the system’s components and their interrelationships. The strengths and weaknesses are assessed in order to determine which components of the old system must be replaced and which can be reused. The shortfalls of the CASED system are overcome by re-engineering it to resemble the machines and drives domain with the use of visual interactive modelling while retaining the inherent strengths of the CASED simulation engine. A graphical, icon-based module interface called Visual CASED was developed. The simulation model is developed and displayed in a schematic format that resembles the physical layout of the drive system itself.

A novel approach has been taken in the software design and development in which the application is advanced through successive working versions of the program evolving from its predecessor. In this way the program grows with user expectations. The software approach used differs from conventional methods because each stage of the software development produces a functional prototype.

Visual CASED’s ease of use has been demonstrated through its use as a teaching aid for a Generalised Machines course at the Department of Electrical Engineering, University of the Witwatersrand. As an example of its use, the transient effects of a resistance starter on a 75kW wound-rotor induction motor driving a conveyor load are investigated.

26  Craig Dino Rebuli (Jan 1998–Dec 1999) (Part-Time)

SuperNEC Method of Moments and Geometric Theory of Diffraction Hybrid Evaluation

(M.Sc. by Coursework and Project Report)

Abstract—Super Numerical Electromagnetics Code (SuperNEC) is a MOM/UTD hybrid program with the MOM component based on the well known Numerical Electromagnetics Code (NEC) version 2. SuperNEC differs from other hybrids in that structures can be evaluated using either MOM or UTD, as well as combining both MOM and UTD in a hybrid at the interaction matrix level. Tests on a dipole and reflector plate using only MOM, then using a UTD plate and comparing the results to physical measurements are all in excellent agreement with differences of less than 5Ω (6%) for the real part of the impedance and 10Ω (12%) for the imaginary part. A Hybrid using both MOM and UTD on a single structure is also possible whereby large parts of the structure are constructed using UTD and smaller more detailed areas constructed using MOM. A hybrid reflector plate was tested and compared to the MOM reflector plate. The error was indirectly proportional to the size of the UTD plate, confirming that the UTD rule still holds, whereby for accurate results the UTD plate lengths must be larger than a wavelength in size. A hybrid structure has been shown to be possible as long as the part of the structure to be modelled using UTD is larger than a wavelength in size.


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