Lewis E. Vogler

Abstract: The multiple knife-edge (MKE) attenuation function is derived from Fresnel-Kirchhoff theory and compared with the original derivation from Furutsu’s generalized residue series. It is shown that the two methods give complex attenuations with the same absolute magnitude but differing in phase. The analytical basis for an improved computational procedure is developed that eliminates the changeover values and abrupt discontinuities of attenuation inherent in the original MKE computer program. A brief discussion of previous MKE diffraction results is presented and an example comparison is made with the Geometrical Theory of Diffraction and the approximations of Epstein-Peterson and Deygout.

Keywords: attenuation calculations; multiple knife-edge diffraction; electromagnetic wave propagation

Disclaimer: Certain commercial equipment, components, and software may be identified in this report to specify adequately the technical aspects of the reported results. In no case does such identification imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, nor does it imply that the equipment or software identified is necessarily the best available for the particular application or uses.

For questions or information on this or any other NTIA scientific publication, contact the ITS Publications Office at ITSinfo@ntia.gov or 303-497-3572.

Back to Search Results