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Journal of Undergraduate Research

Keywords

tissue stiffness asymmetry, human vocal fold vibration, larynx

College

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology

Department

Mechanical Engineering

Abstract

The flow-induced vibration of the human vocal folds produces the sound for voiced speech and singing. The vocal folds consist of two folds of tissue, one on each side of the larynx, that are nominally symmetric in terms of shape, composition, and stiffness. However, several voice disorders, including vocal fold scarring and inflammation, cause severe asymmetry in vocal fold tissue properties. The asymmetry can lead to irregular vocal fold vibration and subsequent decrease in voice quality. A more accurate understanding of the effect of vocal fold asymmetry can aid in the development of improved clinical care of the human voice. Research to quantify the effect of tissue asymmetry on vocal fold vibration was recently performed using synthetic vocal fold models1. However, this study was performed using simplified models that lack important qualities related to mimicking vocal fold motion. New models2 have recently been developed that yield much more life-like vibratory responses. In this project, vocal fold stiffness asymmetry was studied using the new models, allowing for investigation of physical phenomena not previously considered. In addition to asymmetry, the length of the flow supply tube leading to the model has a significant effect on vibration and was also tested in this study in order to better understand model response.

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