Comparison of various kinds of edge elements for electromagnetic field analysis

A new type of 2nd order edge element is proposed. Various kinds of triangular edge elements for 2-D electromagnetic field analysis are discussed in terms of the definition of vectorial variables, shape functions and accuracy. It is illustrated that the new edge element is more favourable than other 2nd order edge elements from the standpoints of accuracy and selection of variables. The new element can be extended easily to higher order elements and to 3-D elements.