The method of the generalised eikonal. New approaches in the diffraction theory (Q2339780)

This monograph introduces a new approach in the wave diffraction theory based on the application of the generalized eikonal technique and conformal mappings of the wave propagating domain and boundary conditions. The book is certainly a useful literature for professionals, both theoreticians and practical engineers, in the field of wave diffraction as well as for graduate students. The monograph contains 11+201 pages of text divided into a preface, an introduction, seven chapters, eight appendices, a bibliography (105 references cited), and an index. The objectives and basic issues (methods, approaches, derivations, solutions) treated in the book are explained and discussed in the preface and the introduction. Chapter 1 introduces the method of generalized eikonal to solve the diffraction problem for plane and cylindrical waves. Specific two-dimensional (2D) cases of diffraction by a half-plane and truncated wedge are treated in Chapter 2. Here, the analytical and numerical solutions obtained by the new generalized eikonal method and the approximate method of successive diffractions, respectively, are discussed and analyzed. Chapter 3 deals with the extension of the eikonal method from 2D to problems in 3D configuration which includes solutions for diffraction of incident waves by cylindrical surfaces and polygonal edges. Chapter 4 covers issues of inclusion of electrical conductivity in solving the diffraction problem for an angular sector while Chapter 5 tackles problems of finding solutions for radio waves propagating under specific conditions typical of urban environment (shapes, construction elements, and distribution of buildings, coupling effects between antennas, Fresnel zones). Chapter 6 considers scattering of elastic waves by a plane polygonal boundary separating two media with application in seismology. Finally, Chapter 7 summarizes the results obtained by the new approach and gives conclusions on their applicability. At the end of the monograph, eight appendices enlighten some mathematical derivations, formulae, expressions, and theorems used throughout the book.