Numerical framework for the simulation of dielectric heating using finite and boundary element method

Abstract

SummaryThis paper presents the latest development towards a software agent–based numerical framework for interdisciplinary coupled problems. The software agent framework is capable to incorporate multiple physical effects and combine multiple numerical methods through the usage of a neutral abstraction layer. The principles of software agent–based programming and the application in a numerical example are discussed. This paper focuses on dielectric heating and different methods for solving the time harmonic Maxwell equation. By reusing state of the art finite element method (FEM) and boundary element method (BEM) software tools and managing the interface between the different tools, this approach solves complicated and realistic three‐dimensional problems. The functionality and efficiency of the framework are demonstrated on the dielectric heating inside a human head due to electromagnetic waves. A proper iterative coupling formulation for FEM and BEM is derived and numerically validated. The FEM‐BEM coupling separates from existing approaches, because it takes advantage of new developments in the FEM, namely, the perfect handling of infinite domains through perfectly matched layers. Moreover, the simplicity and flexibility of the coupling method allow implementation in existing numerical codes.