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Computational Modeling of Blast Wave Transmission Through Human Ear
Kegan Leckness1, Don Nakmali1, Rong Z Gan1
1School of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, 865 Asp Avenue, Norman, OK 73019.
Military Medicine
|April 11, 2018
Summary
A new 3D finite element model simulates blast wave transmission through the human ear. This tool aids in developing better hearing protection devices (HPDs) for veterans experiencing hearing loss.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Acoustics
- Computational Mechanics
Background:
- Hearing loss is a prevalent disability among veterans, often linked to blast exposure.
- Effective hearing protection devices (HPDs) require understanding blast wave propagation in the ear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate the first 3D finite element (FE) model of the human ear for simulating blast wave transmission.
- To provide a computational tool for evaluating the efficacy of HPDs.
Main Methods:
- A 3D FE model of the human ear (ear canal, tympanic membrane, ossicular chain, middle ear) was created.
- Coupled fluid-structure interaction analysis was performed in the time domain using ANSYS Workbench.
- Blast pressure waveforms from human cadaver temporal bone tests were applied to the model's ear canal entrance.
Main Results:
- The model accurately predicted pressure waveforms near the tympanic membrane (P1) compared to experimental data.
- Statistical Kurtosis analysis confirmed the agreement between model-derived and measured P1 waveforms.
- The model successfully simulated blast wave transmission through the modeled human ear structures.
Conclusions:
- The validated 3D FE model provides a reliable platform for simulating blast wave effects on the human ear.
- This computational model is a valuable tool for the future development and evaluation of advanced HPDs.
- The findings contribute to mitigating hearing loss in individuals exposed to blast environments, particularly military personnel.
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