Enabling Accurate Modeling of Wave Propagation in Complex Tunnel Environments with the Vector Parabolic Equation Method

Vector parabolic equation (VPE) methods can be employed as channel models for large-scale tunnel propagation problems with high accuracy and computational efficiency. As with most site-specific models, a geometrical description of the modeling environment is required. However, the relevant literature is rather limited in terms of how to apply VPE to complex, realistic environments and what level of detail is necessary and sufficient to obtain results agreeing with measurements. In this paper, we present a thorough framework on enabling accurate modeling of wave propagation in complex tunnel geometries via VPE. The performance is validated against measured data in London Underground subway tunnels.