Application of a finite element method for variational inequalities

Abstract

In this paper we explore the application of a finite element method (FEM) to the inequality and Laplacian constrained variational optimization problems. First, we illustrate the connection between the optimization problem and elliptic variational inequalities; secondly, we prove the existence of the solution via the augmented Lagrangian multipliers method. A triangular type FEM is employed in the numerical calculations. Computational results indicate that the present finite element method is a highly efficient technique in these sorts of variational problems involving inequalities.