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Frequency Discrimination Characteristics of Cochlear Basilar Membrane Using a Fluid/Structure Model

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 May 2011

Andrew M. Wo ,
Chi-Fang Chen ,
Yi-Feng Hsu  and
Jeffrey Liang
Andrew M. Wo*
Affiliation:
Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan 10617, R.O.C.
Chi-Fang Chen*
Affiliation:
Dept. of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan 10617, R.O.C.
Yi-Feng Hsu*
Affiliation:
Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan 10617, R.O.C.
Jeffrey Liang*
Affiliation:
Department of ENT, Shin Kong W.H.S. Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan 11101, R.O.C.
*
*Professor
*Professor
**Master student
***Director
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Abstract

This paper addresses the vibratory mechanics associated with frequency discrimination of basilar membrane within the cochlear of the inner ear. Periodic excitation is provided to the oval window, which results in generation of waves within the fluid-filled cochlear traveling towards the apex. These waves interact with the compliant basilar membrane structure causing its vibratory motion. Solution procedure of the fluid/structure model consists of a two-step process. First, a finite element calculation (ANSYS) solves for the membrane vibration with an initial harmonic pressure distribution. Second, a control volume analysis links the resultant vibratory motion with the fluid pressure acting on the basilar membrane, thus a pressure feedback loop is accomplished. Results show that dominant factors affecting vibratory characteristics of the basilar membrane are its structural geometry and attenuation of pressure wave as it travels away from the oval window. Calculations clearly capture the designed function of the basilar membrane, principally its frequency discrimination behavior.

Keywords

Basilar membraneCochlearFluid/structure interactionVibration mechanics
Type
Articles
Information
Journal of Mechanics , Volume 18 , Issue 1 , March 2002 , pp. 1 - 7
Copyright
Copyright © The Society of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics, R.O.C. 2002

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References

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