Application of the Trefftz method to sensitivity analysis of a three-dimensional potential problem

This paper presents a new boundary-type method for sensitivity analysis of a three-dimensional potential problem, using Trefftz formulation. The Trefftz formulation for the three-dimensional potential problem is explained, and the sensitivity analysis scheme based on the Trefftz method is presented. Heat transfer in a thick-walled cylinder is considered, and is illustrated through a numerical example, to confirm validity of the method.