High-level interface to T-matrix scattering calculations: architecture, capabilities and limitations

The PyTMatrix package was designed with the objective of providing a simple, extensible interface to T-Matrix electromagnetic scattering calculations performed using an extensively validated numerical core. The interface, implemented in the Python programming language, facilitates automation of the calculations and further analysis of the results through direct integration of both the inputs and the outputs of the calculations to numerical analysis software. This article describes the architecture and design of the package, illustrating how the concepts in the physics of electromagnetic scattering are mapped into data and code models in the computer software. The resulting capabilities and their consequences for the usability and performance of the package are explored. (C) 2014 Optical Society of America