Pulsed power electromagnetic field design using the boundary element method

The boundary element method (BEM) is a numerical technique for solving boundary integral equations. In this technique electromagnetic phenomena are mathematically described by Maxwell's equations in integral form. As electromagnetic field simulation enters the mainstream of computer-aided engineering, the boundary element method is emerging as the superior solution technique, thereby giving manufacturers a significant competitive advantage. This paper describes the boundary element technique in detail including a comparison with electromagnetic analysis using the finite method. The benefits which this technology would potentially bring to pulsed power scientists and engineers, both in academia and industry are also discussed.