Field distribution due to a current-carrying loop of arbitrary shape above a conducting half-space

A Fourier-integral-based model for the computation of magnetic field distributions due to an arbitrary excitation loop above a conducting half-space is formulated. Evaluation of the Fourier transform of the excitation current components, as usually required in the conventional approaches, is not needed in this model. Instead, it is shown that the field distribution at the metal surface in the absence of the conductor is sufficient for computation of the field in the presence of the conductor. The validity of the model is substantiated by comparing our results with the results of conventional models for an infinite straight wire and an elliptical current loop.