Stresses and strains within the vocal fold tissue may play a critical role in voice fatigue, in tissue damage and resulting voice disorders, and in tissue healing. In this study, experiments were performed to determine mechanical fields on the superior surface of a self-oscillating physical model of the human vocal folds using a three-dimensional digital image correlation method. Digital images obtained using a high-speed camera together with a mirror system were used to measure displacement fields, from which strains, strain rates, and stresses on the superior surface of the model vocal folds were computed. The dependence of these variables on flow rate was established. A Hertzian impact model was used to estimate the contact pressure on the medial surface from superior surface strains. A tensile stress dominated state was observed on the superior surface, including during collision between the model folds. Collision between the model vocal folds limits the medial-lateral stress levels on the superior surface, in conjunction with compressive stress or contact pressure on the medial surface.
The understanding of the mechanics of the deformation behavior of vocal folds during flow-induced vibration is of central interest in studies of voice production. We have developed physical models of the vocal folds and connected such models to a flow supply system. The self-sustained oscillation of the vocal folds during phonation experiments is investigated using digital image correlation (DIC) techniques enabled through the use of a high-speed digital camera. A laser Doppler velocimeter was used to independently verify results from the DIC. The study reports on vibratory motion of the superior surface of the model vocal folds, and documents strain fields, and principal strains on that surface. From measured strains and the incompressibility assumption, the corresponding stress fields are computed. Strains on the vocal fold superior surface are quantified in dependence of varying subglottal pressures and flow rates.
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