Computational Methods for the Simulation of Nonconvex Variational Problems withApplications to Smart Materials

摘要

An interdisciplinary research group in modeling, analysis and simulation wasestablished at Florida AM University (FAMU). This group set as its scientific goal the development of robust computational algorithms that are well suited for nonconvex variational principles, and other nonlinear problems that arise in the study of highly nonlinear materials. The equally important second goal of the group was to enhance the participation of under-represented minorities in applied disciplines connected to emerging technologies that are important to the Air Force Office of Scientific Research. Mechanisms used for meeting these goals include the strengthening of the infrastructure for research at FAMU, strengthening of the existing relationship between AFOSR and FAMU, and enhancing the existing relationship between FAMU, Carnegie Mellon University, University of Minnesota, and North Carolina University. This report describes the background and overall research goals of this project, and delineates the accomplishments made thus far.