Hybrid approach for metamaterial behavior prediction for non-uniform resonator grids

A novel methodology to predict the behavior of metamaterial solutions is presented, with application to a simplified academic structure and an automotive electrical component. In scenarios where a non-uniform grid of resonators is employed, it is essential to consider an alternative to the unit cell modeling strategy, which is typically applied, to ensure robust predictions of metamaterial behavior. In this work, a simulation model of the resonators is combined with experimental transfer functions of the host structure through frequency-based substructuring to obtain these predictions. By employing the recently introduced longest vector approach, the necessity for a substantial number of driving points corresponding to the locations of the resonators, is avoided. Additionally, a metric is proposed to compare various configurations, demonstrating the potential of the presented technique for precise optimizations. The predictions obtained from experimental measurements are compared with those from unit cell modeling. The substructuring methodology offers a robust framework for predicting metamaterial performance in cases where a uniform grid of resonators cannot be placed, or when accurate simulation models of the complex host structure are not readily available.