TLM-Based Modeling and Design Exploiting Space Mapping

In this paper, we study the use of space-mapping (SM) techniques within the transmission-line matrix (TLM) method environment. Previous work on SM relies on an “idealized” coarse model in the design process of a computationally expensive fine model. For the first time, we examine the case when the coarse model is not capable of providing an ideal optimal response. We exploit a coarse-grid TLM solver with relaxed boundary conditions. Such a coarse model may be incapable of satisfying design specifications and traditional SM may fail. Our approach, which exploits implicit SM (ISM) and the novel output SM (OSM), overcomes this failure. Dielectric constant, an expedient preassigned parameter, is first calibrated to roughly align the coarse and fine TLM models. Our OSM scheme absorbs the remaining deviation between the “implicitly” mapped coarse-grid and fine-grid TLM responses. Because the TLM simulations are on a fixed grid, response interpolation is crucial. We also create a database system to avoid repeating simulations unnecessarily. Our optimization routine employs a trust region methodology. The TLM-based design of an inductive post, a single-resonator filter, and a six-section H-plane waveguide filter illustrate our approach. In a few iterations, our coarse-grid TLM surrogate, with approximate boundary conditions, achieves a good design of the fine-grid TLM model in spite of poor initial responses. Our results are verified with MEFiSTo simulations.