Massively parallel computational methods in light scattering by small particles

  • Authors:

  • David J. Potter;Marhall P. Cline

  • Affiliations:

  • Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York;Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York

  • Venue:
  • Proceedings of the 1990 ACM/IEEE conference on Supercomputing
  • Year:
  • 1990

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Abstract

Algorithms suitable for use on parallel computers are being developed to simulate the scattering and absorption of light by small penetrable objects such as ice crystals and biological cells. The solution of the problem is based on a geometrical optics approach. Each incident ray undergoes multiple reflections and refractions as it travels through the scattering object. Since the interactions of each incident ray are independent of those of all other rays, parallel computer architectures can be used in an efficient manner.Data parallel algorithms have been developed which assign one processor to each incident ray. A massively parallel architecture consisting of 64K processors (the Connection Machine) is being used. This means that the scattering calculations for over 65,000 rays can be carried out simultaneously.Using a stochastic approach, a Monte Carlo technique is used whereby each ray is either reflected or refracted based on probabilities. The object is represented by a collection of small facets enabling almost any shaped object or objects to be modeled from any orientation.