Computational techniques for adaptive hp finite element methods

Abstract In this paper we present some new computational techniques designed for adaptive hp methods. We also list some established and successful techniques. In particular we introduce a new robust solver for such methods using a novel “space-filling curve” based ordering of the unknowns and a multilevel substructuring type factorization. We also outline an a posteriori error estimator that can be easily used in conjunction with this solver. The ordering introduced is of general applicability and can also be used with non-adaptive methods to great advantage.