An automated approach for parallel adjoint-based error estimation and mesh adaptation

In finite element simulations, not all of the data are of equal importance. In fact, the primary purpose of a numerical study is often to accurately assess only one or two engineering output quantities that can be expressed as functionals. Adjoint-based error estimation provides a means to approximate the discretization error in functional quantities and mesh adaptation provides the ability to control this discretization error by locally modifying the finite element mesh. In the past, adjoint-based error estimation has only been accessible to expert practitioners in the field of solid mechanics. In this work, we present an approach to automate the process of adjoint-based error estimation and mesh adaptation on parallel machines. This process is intended to lower the barrier of entry to adjoint-based error estimation and mesh adaptation for solid mechanics practitioners. We demonstrate that this approach is effective for example problems in Poisson’s equation, nonlinear elasticity, and thermomechanical elastoplasticity.