Let K be a non-standard fractal Koch curve with contraction factor α. Assume α is of the form α = 2+1/m for some m ∈ N and that K is embedded in a larger domain Ω. Further suppose that u is any Hölder continuous function on K. Then for each such m ∈ N and iteration n ≥ 0, we construct a bounded linear operator Πn which extends u from the prefractal Koch curve Kn into the whole of Ω. Unfortunately, our sequence of extension functions Πnu are not bounded in norm in the limit because the upper bound is a strictly increasing function of n; this prevents us from demonstrating uniform convergence in the limit.

The dissertation is organized into two main parts. The first part considers fractal extension operators. Although extension operators are available for general subsets of Euclidean domains or metric spaces, our extension operator is unique in that it utilizes both the iterative nature of the fractal and finite element approximations to construct the operator. The resulting operator is especially well suited for future numerical work on domains with prefractal boundaries. In the dissertation we prove the existence of a linear extension operator, Π from the space of Hölder continuous functions on a fractal set S to the space of Hölder continuous functions on a larger domain Ω. Moreover this same extension operator maps functions of finite energy on the fractal to H1 functions on the larger domain Ω. In the second part, we consider boundary value problems in domains with fractal boundaries. First we consider the Sierpinski prefractal and how we might apply the technique of singular homogenization to thin layers constructed on the prefractal. We will also discuss numerical approximation in domains with fractal boundaries and introduce a finite element mesh developed for studying problems in domains with prefractal Koch boundaries. This mesh exploits the self-similarity of the Koch curve for arbitrary rational values of α and its construction is crucial for future numerical study of problems in domains with prefractal Koch curve boundaries. We also show a technique for mesh refinement so that singularities in the domain can be handled and present sample numerical results for the transmission problem.

Fractal is a recursively-generated object describing a family of complex shapes that possess an inherent self-similarity in their geometrical structure. When used in antenna engineering, fractal geometries provide multi-band characteristics and lowering resonance frequencies by enhancing the space filling property. Moreover, utilizing fractal arrays, controlling side lobe-levels and radiation patterns can be realized. In this thesis, the performance of Koch curve as antenna is investigated. Since fractals are complex shapes, there is no well&ndash / established for mathematical formulation to obtain the radiation properties and frequency response of Koch Curve antennas directly. The Koch curve antennas became famous since they exhibit better frequency response than their Euclidean counterparts. The effect of the parameters of Koch geometry to antenna performance is studied in this thesis. Moreover, modified Koch geometries are generated to obtain the relation between fractal properties and antenna radiation and frequency characteristics.

<p>Fractal analysis is an important tool when we need to study geometrical objects less regular than ordinary ones, e.g. a set with a non-integer dimension value. It has developed intensively over the last 30 years which gives a hint to its young age as a branch within mathematics.</p><p>In this thesis we take a look at some basic measure theory needed to introduce certain definitions of fractal dimensions, which can be used to measure a set's fractal degree. Comparisons of these definitions are done and we investigate when they coincide. With these tools different fractals are studied and compared.</p><p>A key idea in this thesis has been to sum up different names and definitions referring to similar concepts.</p>

Fractal analysis is an important tool when we need to study geometrical objects less regular than ordinary ones, e.g. a set with a non-integer dimension value. It has developed intensively over the last 30 years which gives a hint to its young age as a branch within mathematics. In this thesis we take a look at some basic measure theory needed to introduce certain definitions of fractal dimensions, which can be used to measure a set's fractal degree. Comparisons of these definitions are done and we investigate when they coincide. With these tools different fractals are studied and compared. A key idea in this thesis has been to sum up different names and definitions referring to similar concepts.