GPRSim.net is a basic GPR time domain simulation tool. It is partially based in the transmission line model and allows up to ten layers to be simulated with frequencies ranging from 200 to 2000 MHz. It can be used to try out different real world survey scenarios and understand how different center Frequency antennas could perform, as well as getting an idea of how the A-scan might look like in the given conditions.
All layers are defined using only three parameters: relative dielectric constant or permittivity (epsilon), electric Conductivity (SIGMA) and the physical thickness of the Layer. Instead of the electric conductivity (sigma) it is possible to enter the value for the loss tangent. The model assumes the relative permeability is equal to one. The results of the simulation are displayed in the time and frequency domains and it is possible to print out the time domain plot. Different survey scenarios can be stored as CSV files for quick access.
Both the time and frequency domain have Cursors for a comfortable interpretation of the results. It is possible in such a way to calculate propagation delays through different medias. GPRSim.net shows in a simple way the attenuation effects of the media at different frequencies and the possible phase shifts of the excitation signal while propagating through it.
GPRSim.net can serve as a tool for teaching basic concepts of electromagnetic wave propagation in different medias. It is also very well fitted to explain to customers the always around questions: How deep? How small object?. Showing different scenarios with different frequencies one can in a simple and very didactic way show that it all depends on many factors.
