A framework approach for developing parallel adaptive multiphysics applications

This paper presents the concept of using a computational framework for enabling rapid development of parallel adaptive multiphysics application codes. A computational framework supplies a software architecture along with a toolbox of advanced capabilities for the many mechanics-independent pieces of the software. These pieces include high-level concepts to support parallel communications, parallel transfer operators that support code coupling, and parallel mesh refinement and unrefinement services with dynamic load rebalancing. We describe these capabilities in the context of the SIERRA framework developed at Sandia National Laboratories. Numerical examples are given, demonstrating the use of framework services for developing a parallel coupled application and a parallel single-physics h-adaptive application. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.