An Introduction to the Boundary Element Method

Abstract

Publisher Summary The boundary element method has become an important alternative to the conventional finite element method—the finite element method applied to the partial differential equations in the domain. The simplicity of the input data requirements, particularly for three-dimensional and infinite domain problems, makes boundary element computer programs easier to use than programs based on finite element or finite difference methods. Although the basic boundary element method was developed for linear homogeneous material properties, non-homogeneous problems involving distinct homogeneous regions can also be solved by the method. Problems involving a continuous spatial variation in material properties are probably best left to the finite element method. The boundary element method can be adapted to non-linear problems, but the efficiency of the method compared to finite element or finite difference methods remains an open question. Indeed, it may be more efficient to use a combination of methods.