The Boundary Element Methods (BEM) has become one of the most efficient tools for solving
various kinds of problems in engineering science. The International Association for Boundary
Element Methods (IABEM) was established in order to promote and facilitate the exchange of
scientific ideas related to the theory and applications of boundary element methods. The aim of
this symposium is to provide a forum for researchers in boundary element methods and
boundary-integral formulations in general to present contemporary concepts and techniques
leading to the advancement of capabilities and understanding of this com putational
methodology. The topics covered in this symposium include mathematical and computational
aspects applications to solid mechanics fluid mechanics acoustics electromagnetics heat
transfer optimization control inverse problems and other interdisciplinary problems. Papers
deal ing with the coupling of the boundary element method with other computational methods are
also included. The editors hope that this volume presents some innovative techniques and useful
knowl edge for the development of the boundary element methods. February 1992 S. Kobayashi N.
Nishimura Contents Abe K.
