Forward-backward iterative physical optics algorithm for computing the RCS of open-ended cavities

The forward-backward methodology is combined with the iterative physical optics (IPO) algorithm to improve convergence for cavity scattering problems. Wave propagation inside elongated cavities, such as jet engine inlet ducts, follows a predominant down-and-back path. The forward-backward method allows the IPO currents on the cavity walls to be updated sequentially (forward) and reverse-sequentially (backward) along the waveguide axis. A relaxation parameter is introduced to help control the convergence characteristics, making the new algorithm mathematically equivalent to the classical iterative method of symmetric successive over-relaxation. The fast far-field approximation (FaFFA) accelerates the matrix-vector products in the IPO formulation, and an equivalent surface impedance is used to characterize thin material linings in the cavity.