Modelling of some mechanical malfunctions of the human basilar membrane

Abstract

Numerical models of the human basilar membranes (BMs) with 0.4 × 10 −3 and 2.8 × 10 −3 m long ruptures and bosses were built and solved using the Finite Element Method. Possible reasons of such structural modifications were described. The models were tested by calculations of typical curves, e.g., input–output functions, isointensity curves, BM velocities and transfer functions. The numerical models predicted main characteristics of the modified BMs showing that all modifications might affect calculated curves in most cases. The results seem to be reasonable and although the models have some limitations, they may by use in further explaining of the BM malfunctions caused by physical changes or damages on the BM.