Quasi-simultaneous coupling methods for partitioned problems in computational hemodynamics

The paper describes the numerical coupling challenges in multiphysics problems like the simulation of blood flow in compliant arteries. In addition to an iterative coupling between the fluid flow and elastic vessel walls, i.e. fluid-structure interaction, also the coupling between a detailed 3D local (arterial) flow model and a more global 0D model (representing a global circulation) is analyzed. Most of the coupling analysis is formulated in the more abstract setting of electrical-network models. Both, weak (segregated) and strong (monolithic) coupling approaches are studied, and their numerical stability limitations are discussed. Being a hybrid combination, the quasi-simultaneous coupling method, developed for partitioned problems in aerodynamics, is shown to be a robust and flexible approach for hemodynamic applications too.