Scalable multiscale-spectral GFEM for composite aero-structures

Ill-conditioned and multiscale partial differential equations (PDEs) arise in many fields. It is a very challenging problem to compute a resolved, fine-scale solution or to find a robust low-dimensional approximation. In this paper, the first large-scale application of multiscale-spectral generalized finite element methods (MS-GFEM) to composite aero-structures is presented. A problem-specific coarse space generated from local eigenproblems yields a spectral element-type method with excellent approximation properties at low basis size, even for challenging multiscale problems. The implementation of the framework in the DUNE software package, as well as a detailed description of all components of the method are presented and exemplified on a composite laminated beam under compressive loading. The excellent parallel scalability of the method, as well as its superior performance compared to the related, previously introduced GenEO method are demonstrated on two realistic application cases. Further, by allowing low-cost approximate solves for closely related models or geometries this efficient, novel technology provides the basis for future applications in optimisation or uncertainty quantification on challenging problems in composite aero-structures.