Deriving robust unfitted finite element methods from augmented Lagrangian formulations

Abstract

In this paper we will discuss different coupling methods {suitable for use in} the framework of the recently introduced CutFEM paradigm, cf. Burman, Erik; Claus, Susanne; Hansbo, Peter; Larson, Mats G.; Massing, André . CutFEM: discretizing geometry and partial differential equations. Internat. J. Numer. Methods Engrg. 104 (2015), no. 7, 472-501. In particular we will consider mortaring using Lagrange multipliers on the one hand and Nitsche's method on the other. For simplicity we will first discuss these method in the setting of uncut meshes, and end with some comments on the extension to CutFEM. We will, for comparison, discuss some different types of problems such as high contrast problems and problems with stiff coupling or adhesive contact. We will review some of the existing methods for these problems and propose some alternative methods resulting from crossovers from the Lagrange multiplier framework to Nitsche's method and vice versa.