Finite-element solution of 2-dimensional exterior-field problems

A new method, based on the finite-element method of discretisation and compatible with existing finite-element techniques, is described for the solution of field problems in which the region of prime interest is embedded in an infinitely extending region where Laplace´s equation holds. The essence of this method lies in representing the infinitely extending region by a single finite element, which may be included in an element assembly descriptive of the finite region of major interest. No iterative computation is necessary, and the computing effort required for solution is essentially the same as that required for solving the interiorfield problem alone.