Space-time finite element methods for elastodynamics: Formulations and error estimates

Space-time finite element methods are developed for classical elastodynamics. The approach employs the discontinuous Galerkin method in time and incorporates stabilizing terms of least-squares type. These enable a general convergence theorem to be proved in a norm stronger than the energy norm. Optimal error estimates are predicted, and confirmed numerically, for arbitrary combinations of displacement and velocity interpolations. The procedures developed are easily generalized to structural dynamics and a wide class of second-order hyperbolic problems.