Asynchronous multi-domain variational integrators for non-linear problems

We develop an asynchronous time integration and coupling method with domain decomposition for linear and non-linear problems in mechanics. To ensure stability in the time integration and in coupling between domains, we use variational integrators with local Lagrange multipliers to enforce continuity at the domain interfaces. The asynchronous integrator lets each domain step with its own time step, using a smaller time step where required by stability and accuracy constraints and a larger time step where allowed. We show that in practice the time step is limited by accuracy requirements rather than by stability requirements. Copyright q 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.