The transmission-line matrix (TLM) method: an efficient tool for problem segmentation (diakoptics)

The paper describes a numerical procedure, called diakoptics, that allows one to solve for sub-domains of a large structure in a rigorous manner. Hence, one can optimize such a sub-domain during subsequent simulations without meshing the whole structure. In addition, the technique is naturally well suited for Transmission-Line Matrix (TLM) computations. Although diakoptics is very demanding in terms of computer cost for three-dimensional (3D) cases, various accelerating procedures can substantially reduce the memory and CPU time requirement. Some of these techniques are briefly described and discussed. Finally, examples of applications are presented.