Mapped transient infinite elements for heat transfer problems in infinite media (Q1310316)

Based on the fundamental solutions of transient heat transfer problems in infinite media, a mapped transient infinite element is presented and the so-called heat transfer function of the element has been derived. In order to express the property matrices of the present mapped transient infinite element, a mapping technique, in which the infinite element in a global coordinate system is mapped into a strip element of finite width and infinite length in a local coordinate system, has also been developed. Using the variable substitution technique, the general integral involved in the evaluation of the property matrices of the element has been changed into a standard one for which the conventional Gauss-Legendre integration scheme can be employed.