Algorithm for using the boundary element method on the example of a mixed boundary value problem for the Poisson equation

Abstract

The possibilities of the algorithm for applying the boundary element method to solving boundary value problems are discussed on the example of the two-dimensional Poisson differential equation. The algorithm does not change significantly when the type of boundary conditions changes: the Dirichlet problem, the Neumann problem, or a mixed boundary value problem. The idea of the algorithm is taken from the work of John T. Katsikadelis [1]. The algorithm is described in detail in the next sequence of actions. 1) The boundary- value problem for a two-dimensional finite domain is formulated. The desired function in the domain, its values, and its normal derivative on the boundary contour are connected by means of the second Green formula. 2) We pass from the boundary value problem for the Poisson equation to the boundary value problem for the Laplace equation. This simplifies the process of constructing an integral equation. We obtain the integral equation on the boundary contour using the boundary conditions. 3) In the integral equation, we divide the boundary contour into a finite number of boundary elements. The desired function and its normal derivative are considered constant values on each boundary element. We compose a system of linear algebraic equations considering these values. 4) We modify the system of linear algebraic equations taking into account the boundary conditions. After that, we solve it using the Gauss method. The computer program has been developed according to the developed algorithm. We used it in the learning process. The software implementation of the algorithm takes into account the capabilities of modern computer technology and modern needs of the educational process. The work of the program is shown in the test case. Further modification of the described algorithm is possible