3D simulation of the lightning path using a mixed physical-probabilistic model – The open source lightning model

The modeling of the lightning channel's propagation has been a major issue in lightning protection. Several solutions are already existing based on different assumptions revealing different properties of the lightning, including return strokes, the orientation point (and distance), and several other factors. The path of the lightning channel however is very hard to model using the physical equations and laws only, since a lot of the boundary conditions and starting conditions are unknown. Thus for these purposes the probabilistic approach is practically used. In this paper a lightning path simulation method is shown based on a probabilistic approach. The lightning path is mainly influenced by the electric field, and the existence of the start electrons. These conditions can't always be calculated, thus in many cases a probabilistic model shall be used. The model proposed in this article has a modular approach, it consists of several components. Each of these components can be improved based on existing theories, and empirical data, and this makes this simulation method – besides the realization – “open source”, as the components can be improved individually. At this stage of the development, many lightning parameters are yet omitted, but the model structure of course allows further improvement on this field as well.