A comparison between hybrid methods: FEM-BEM versus FEM-DBCI

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to compare the hybrid FEM-BEM and FEM-DBCI methods for the solution of open-boundary static and quasi-static electromagnetic field problems. Design/methodology/approach - After a brief review of the two methods (both coupling a differential equation for the interior problem with an integral equation for the exterior one), they are compared in terms of accuracy, memory and computing time requirements by means of a set of simple examples. Findings - The comparison suggests that FEM-BEM is more accurate than FEM-DBCI but requires more computing time. Practical implications - Then FEM-DBCI appears more appropriate for applications which require a shorter computing time, for example in the stochastic optimization of electromagnetic devices. Conversely, FEM-BEM is more appropriate in cases in which a high level of precision is required in a single computation. Originality/value - Note that the FEM-BEM considered in this paper is a non standard one in which the nodes of the normal derivative on the truncation boundary are placed in positions different from those of the potential. Copyright © 2013 Emerald Group Publishing Limited. All rights reserved.