Like FEM, the Boundary Element Method (BEM) provides a general numerical
tool for the solution of complex engineering problems. In the last
decades, the range of its applications has remarkably been enlarged.
Therefore dynamic and nonlinear problems can be tackled. However they
still demand an explicit expression of a fundamental solution, which is
only known in simple cases. In this respect, the present book proposes
an alternative BEM-formulation based on the Fourier transform, which can
be applied to almost all cases relevant in engineering mechanics. The
basic principle is presented for the heat equation. Applications are
taken from solid mechanics (e.g. poroelasticity, thermoelasticity).
Transient and stationary examples are given as well as linear and
nonlinear. Completed with a mathematical and mechanical glossary, the
book will serve as a comprehensive text book linking applied mathematics
to real world engineering problems.