The BEM-FDM model of thermal processes proceeding in the domain of the human finger

Purpose: The problem of the numerical modeling of thermal processes proceeding in the non-homogeneous domain of the human finger is discussed. The domain considered constitutes the assembling of soft and bone tissues and the system of supplying blood vessels (arteries and veins). The mathematical description of the process analyzed corresponds to the so-called vascular models. Methods: At the stage of numerical modeling the algorithm being the composition of the boundary element method (BEM) and the finite difference method (FDM) is applied. Results: The algorithm presented allows one to determine the steady state temperature field in the finger domain in natural convection conditions. To verify the effectiveness and exactness of the method of the problem solution, the thermal imaging measurements of the finger surface temperature have been done. Conclusions: The compatibility of numerical and experimental results (the natural convection conditions) has proved to be quite satisfactory. It is possible to use the algorithm proposed for the modeling of thermal processes proceeding in the conditions of low or high ambient temperatures and the big values of heat transfer coefficients. The impact of protective clothing on the temperature field in the domain of the finger can also be analyzed.