The purpose of this research is to develop a better understanding of the cochlea function as part of the human hearing mechanism. By advancing the basic knowledge of the cochlea, the causes of hearing loss can be better understood as well as the possibility of hearing loss prevention. Studying the mechanics of hearing provides a means of unifying the broad aspects of an engineering education program while providing training in research methodologies specific to the field of Biomedical Engineering. The primary aim of this study is to examine the effects of the osseous spiral lamina on the response of a human passive cochlea. The problem will be approached by first, measuring human temporal bone specimens, second, developing mathematical models, and finally, fabricating life-sized physical models. This project will become part of a larger effort to verify our mathematical models and to test various hypotheses for cochlea mechanics.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
Type
Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F31)
Project #
5F31DC005454-02
Application #
6626123
Study Section
Communication Disorders Review Committee (CDRC)
Program Officer
Sklare, Dan
Project Start
2002-04-01
Project End
Budget Start
2003-04-01
Budget End
2004-03-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2003
Total Cost
$38,822
Indirect Cost
Name
Stanford University
Department
Engineering (All Types)
Type
Schools of Engineering
DUNS #
009214214
City
Stanford
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
94305
Wittbrodt, Michael J; Steele, Charles R; Puria, Sunil (2006) Developing a physical model of the human cochlea using micro-fabrication methods. Audiol Neurootol 11:104-12