Higher order hierarchal curvilinear triangular vector elements for the finite element method in computational electromagnetics

Date
2003-03
Authors
Marais, Neilen
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University
Abstract
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The Finite Element Method (FEM) as applied to Computational Electromagnetics (CEM), can be used to solve a large class of Electromagnetics problems with high accuracy, and good computational efficiency. Computational efficiency can be improved by using element basis functions of higher order. If, however, the chosen element type is not able to accurately discretise the computational domain, the converse might be true. This paper investigates the application of elements with curved sides, and higher order basis functions, to computational domains with curved boundaries. It is shown that these elements greatly improve the computational efficiency of the FEM applied to such domains, as compared to using elements with straight sides, and/or low order bases.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die Eindige Element Metode (EEM) kan breedvoerig op Numeriese Elektromagnetika toegepas word, met uitstekende akkuraatheid en 'n hoë doeltreffendheids vlak. Numeriese doeltreffendheid kan verbeter word deur van hoër orde element basisfunksies gebruik te maak. Indien die element egter nie die numeriese domein effektief kan diskretiseer nie, mag die omgekeerde geld. Hierdie tesis ondersoek die toepassing van elemente met geboë sye, en hoër orde basisfunksies, op numeriese domeine met geboë grense. Daar word getoon dat sulke elemente 'n noemenswaardinge verbetering in die numeriese doeltreffendheid van die EEM meebring, vergeleke met reguit- en/of laer-orde elemente.
Description
Thesis (MScEng)--Stellenbosch University, 2003.
Keywords
Finite element method, Electromagnetic waves, Computer algorithms, Dissertations -- Electronic engineering
Citation