Numerical simulation of glottal flow

Abstract

In cases of permanent immobility of both vocal folds patients have difficulties with breathing but rarely with voicing. However, clinical experience shows that the shape of the larynx (voice box) seems to have a significant influence on the degree of airflow and breathing pattern. In order to find an optimal geometry of the larynx in terms of easiness for breathing after the surgical change of vocal folds or false vocal cords (ventricular folds), a set of numerical simulations of glottal flow for weakly compressible Navier-Stokes equations has been performed. We compare airflow resistance and volumetric flow rate for several geometry concepts for inspiration as well as expiration. Finally, we discuss the optimal geometry with respect to the quality of breathing.

Keywords: Airflow resistance; Geometry optimization; Glottal flow; Numerical simulation; Respiration; Volumetric flow rate; Weakly compressible flow.