Open Access

Rudolf Beck, Bodo Erdmann, Rainer Roitzsch

• KASKADE 3.x was developed for the solution of partial differential equations in one, two, or three space dimensions. Its object-oriented implementation concept is based on the programming language C++$\,$.~Adaptive finite element techniques are employed to provide solution procedures of optimal computational complexity. This implies a posteriori error estimation, local mesh refinement and multilevel preconditioning. The program was designed both as a platform for further developments of adaptive multilevel codes and as a tool to tackle practical problems. Up to now we have implemented scalar problem types like stationary or transient heat conduction. The latter one is solved with the Rothe method, enabling adaptivity both in space and time. Some nonlinear phenomena like obstacle problems or two-phase Stefan problems are incorporated as well. Extensions to vector-valued functions and complex arithmetic are provided. This report helps to work with KASKADE Especially we \begin{itemize} \setlength{\parskip}{0ex} \item [{\bf --}] study a set of examples, \item [{\bf --}] explain how to define a user's problem and \item [{\bf --}] introduce a graphical user interface. \end{itemize} We are extending this guide continuously. The latest version is available by network.