Partitioned analysis for coupled mechanical systems

Partitioned analysis is a method by which sets of time‐dependent ordinary differential equations for coupled systems may be numerically integrated in tandem, thereby avoiding brute‐force simultaneous solution. The coupled systems addressed pertain to fluid—structure, fluid—soil, soil—structure, or even structure—structure interaction. The paper describes the partitioning process for certain discrete‐element equations of motion, as well as the associated computer implementation. It then delineates the procedure for designing a partitioned analysis method in a given application. Finally, examples are presented to illustrate the concepts. It is seen that a key element in the implementation of partitioned analysis is the use of integrated, as opposed to monolithic software.