Moment method analysis of metallic cylinder and truncated cone used in orbital satellites

Abstract

The paper presents an analysis for the evaluation of capacitance and charge distribution of metallic cylinder and truncated cone of finite length and isolated in free space using moment method formulation employing pulse and delta functions as basic function and testing function, respectively. The elements of the matrix to be inverted in the process of application of the moment method are found by diving the structure into sections of equal axial length which are further subdivided into curvilinear rectangles along the circumferential direction of each cylindrical section. The curvilinear rectangles are finally approximated by planer rectangles. Expression for the capacitance and charge distribution is derived in terms of the elements of the inverted matrix. Modifications of capacitance due to top and bottom flat surfaces is evaluated. Numerical data on these parameters are presented.