Computational Model for Basilar-Membrane Displacement

Abstract

A computational model is described for estimating basilar membrane displacement in the human ear when the sound pressure at the eardrum is known. The model embodies rational‐function approximations of middle ear transmission and of stapes to‐membrane transmission. The physiological data upon which it is based stem primarily from the researches of Békésy. Besides computational convenience, the rational‐function format has the additional advantage that the model can, if desired, be realized in terms of lumped‐constant electrical circuits. The model has been found to be a useful analytical tool for relating subjective auditory behavior and the acoustomechanical operation of the ear.