Application of an efficient wave-based prediction technique for the analysis of vibro-acoustic radiation problems

Recently, a new numerical prediction technique has been developed for the analysis of vibro-acoustic problems in bounded domains. This wave-based prediction technique adopts an indirect Trefftz approach. Unlike the conventional element-based methods, the novel technique uses wave functions that exactly satisfy the governing dynamic equations to describe the dynamic variables. Fine domain discretizations are no longer required and the resulting model sizes are much smaller than with the element based methods. This results in a more time-efficient prediction technique which also allows handling of mid-frequency applications. This paper discusses how the wave-based prediction technique can be used for vibro-acoustic radiation problems in unbounded domains. Its beneficial characteristics compared to the element-based methods are demonstrated through a validation example. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.