Convergence analysis of Schwarz methods without overlap for the Helmholtz equation

In this paper, the continuous and discrete optimal transmission conditions for the Schwarz algorithm without overlap for the Helmholtz equation are studied. Since such transmission conditions lead to non-local operators, they are approximated through two different approaches. The first approach, called optimized, consists of an approximation of the optimal continuous transmission conditions with partial differential operators, which are then optimized for efficiency. The second approach, called approximated, is based on pure algebraic operation; performed on the optimal discrete transmission conditions. After demonstrating the optimal convergence properties of the Schwarz algorithm new numerical investigations are performed on a wide range of unstructured meshes and arbitrary mesh partitioning with cross points. Numerical results illustrate for the first time the effectiveness, robustness and comparative performance of the optimized and approximated Schwarz methods on a model problem and on industria[ problems. (C) 2004 Published by Elsevier Ltd.