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Updated: Sep 4, 2025
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Synthetic, Multi-Layer, Self-Oscillating Vocal Fold Model Fabrication
Published on: December 2, 2011
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Optimization of Synthetic Vocal Fold Models for Glottal Closure
Cassandra J Taylor1, Scott L Thomson1
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, 350 EB, Provo, UT 84602.
Summary
Researchers developed a synthetic vocal fold model that vibrates realistically. This self-oscillating model achieves physiologically accurate frequency and glottal closure, improving voice production studies.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics of voice production
- Computational fluid dynamics
- Acoustics
Background:
- Synthetic vocal fold models are crucial for understanding voice production.
- Previous models often lacked complete glottal closure during vibration.
- Glottal closure significantly impacts flow, acoustics, and motion outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a synthetic, self-oscillating vocal fold model with physiologically realistic vibration characteristics.
- To optimize geometric and material properties for accurate frequency and closed quotient.
- To address limitations of incomplete glottal closure in prior models.
Main Methods:
- Coupling a low-fidelity, 2D, multilayer finite element model with a genetic algorithm for optimization.
- Simulating vocal fold flow-induced vibration to determine optimal parameters.
- Fabricating and testing a synthetic model based on simulation outcomes.
Main Results:
- Optimization yielded computational models with favorable frequency and closed quotient.
- A tradeoff was observed between frequency and closed quotient.
- The fabricated synthetic model vibrated realistically with a nonzero closed quotient.
Conclusions:
- The methodology enables the creation of synthetic vocal fold models with physiologically realistic vibratory outcomes.
- Low-fidelity model optimization can effectively tune synthetic vocal fold characteristics.
- Isotropic silicone materials are suitable for fabricating such models.
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