A three dimensional surface‐to‐surface projection algorithm for non‐coincident domains

A numerical procedure is outlined to achieve the least squares projection of a finite dimensional representation from one surface to another in three dimensions. Although the applications of such an algorithm are many, the specific problem considered is the mortar tying of dissimilarly meshed grids in large deformation solid mechanics. The algorithm includes a nearest neighbour search, a systematic subdivision of the surface of intersection into smooth subdomains (termed segments), and a robust numerical quadrature scheme for evaluation of the spatial integrals defining the mortar projection. The procedure outlined, while discussed for the mesh tying problem, is directly applicable to the study of contact-impact. Published in 2003 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.