On Runge-Kutta convolution quadrature based fractional variational integrators

Abstract

Lagrangian systems subject to fractional damping can be incorporated into a variational formalism. The construction can be made by doubling the state variables and introducing fractional derivatives \cite{JiOb2}. The main objective of this paper is to use the Runge-Kutta convolution quadrature (RKCQ) method for approximating fractional derivatives, combined with higher order Galerkin methods in order to derive fractional variational integrators (FVIs). We are specially interested in the CQ based on Lobatto IIIC. Preservation properties such as energy decay as well as convergence properties are investigated numerically and proved for 2nd order schemes. The presented schemes reach 2nd, 4th and 6th accuracy order. A brief discussion on the midpoint fractional integrator is also included.