The variational multiscale method - a paradigm for computational mechanics

We present a general treatment of the variational multiscale method in the context of an abstract Dirichlet problem. We show how the exact theory represents a paradigm for subgrid-scale models and a posteriori error estimation. We examine hierarchical p-methods and bubbles in order to understand and, ultimately, approximate the 'fine-scale Green's function' which appears in the theory. We review relationships between residual-free bubbles, element Green's functions and stabilized methods. These suggest the applicability of the methodology to physically interesting problems in fluid mechanics, acoustics and electromagnetics. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.