A survey of selected coupled multifield problems in computational mechanics

This overview article aims at giving a concise introduction to the vast field of coupled problems, particularly to those of importance in computational mechanics and engineering. Therefore, the common terminology and an appropriate classification of coupled equation systems is presented. Attention is focused on volumetrically coupled multifield formulations arising from the continuum mechanical treatment of multiphysics problems, but also geometrically coupled problems of structural mechanics are addressed. It is attempted to elucidate the most relevant mathematical and computational issues, particularly in the finite element context, and present them in legible and comprehensible form without getting lost in formalistic details. Illustrative examples of selected volume- coupled problems further illustrate some aspects of segregated solution strategies. The article is intended for researchers working in the general field of Coupled Problem Mechanics, from PhD students, who want to get into the subject, to senior scientists, who want to obtain a synoptic survey.