Advances in High-Power Electromagnetics: A Mechanical Perspective on Sources, Systems, Detection and Protection Techniques
Publication date
2024
Document type
Dissertation
Author
AlMansoori, Mae
Advisor
Referee
Rachidi-Haeri, Farhad
Kasmi, Chaouki
Granting institution
Helmut-Schmidt-Universität / Universität der Bundeswehr Hamburg
Exam date
2024-01-29
Organisational unit
DDC Class
620 Ingenieurwissenschaften
Keyword
High power electromagnetics
Vircators
Stochastic analysis
Switched oscillator
Additive manufacturing
Luneburg lens
Direction-of-arrival estimation system
Radar absorbing material
Stealth applications
Rapid prototyping
Optimization
Sensing techniques
Protection techniques
Metamaterials
Metasurfaces
Semi-anechoic chamber
Reverberation chamber
Abstract
This dissertation explores innovative advancements within the high-power electromagnetics (HPEM) domain, focusing on the optimization of electromagnetic sources, the development of compact and mechanically efficient systems, the rapid prototyping of advanced sensing techniques, and the conceptualization of effective protection methodologies. It adeptly bridges mechanical engineering and electromagnetics, enhancing conventional approaches and addressing existing challenges in the HPEM field. Key research methods span both computational and experimental modalities. First, a detailed stochastic analysis is conducted to optimize the design of Virtual Cathode Oscillators (Vircator), a type of HPEM source, with findings indicating a 30% increase in peak power output, accompanied by a minor frequency shift. A novel portable, cost-effective, and easily maintained switched oscillator (SWO) system is devised for susceptibility and vulnerability testing, employing mechanical integration and experimental validation. Furthermore, the dissertation employs additive manufacturing techniques to create a compact Luneburg lens, facilitating the design and validation of a portable direction-of-arrival estimation system. This innovative solution is not only more affordable than traditional counterparts, but its manufacturing process is streamlined and efficient. The research concludes with the prototyping of radar absorbing materials for stealth applications, utilizing intelligent rapid prototyping methodologies. This approach allows for enhanced production efficiency, thereby contributing to the field of protection techniques in HPEM.
The implications of this thesis span the broad field of HPEM, encompassing electromagnetic sources, sensing, and protection techniques. The findings illuminate potential pathways for improving HPEM applications, integrating mechanical engineering insights, and emphasizing the importance of rapid prototyping methodologies.
The implications of this thesis span the broad field of HPEM, encompassing electromagnetic sources, sensing, and protection techniques. The findings illuminate potential pathways for improving HPEM applications, integrating mechanical engineering insights, and emphasizing the importance of rapid prototyping methodologies.
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