Improved PO scattering algorithm for vortex EM waves using equivalent edge current analysis

Abstract

A modified physical optics (PO) scattering algorithm for analyzing the high-frequency electromagnetic (EM) scattering of vortex wave fields is proposed in this Letter. While traditional PO methods struggle to accurately model edge diffraction effects in orbital angular momentum (OAM)-carrying beams, especially for complex targets, we address this limitation by integrating the equivalent edge current (EEC) theory into the conventional PO framework. By decomposing the Bessel vortex wave into a spectrum of plane wave components, we independently compute the PO and EEC scattering contributions for each spectral element. The coherent superposition of these contributions yields the total scattered field, significantly improving modeling accuracy. Numerical results demonstrate a 20%–30% enhancement in radar cross section prediction accuracy over the standard PO method. The proposed hybrid PO and EEC algorithm offers a computationally efficient solution for vortex EM scattering analysis, with direct applications in OAM-based radar systems, computational imaging, and next-generation communications.