Cochlear macromechanics: Time domain solutions

Abstract

A new method of solving a previously derived, 2-dimensional model, integral equation for basilar membrane (BM) motion [in humans] is reported. The method uses a recursive algorithm for the solution of an initial-value problem in the time domain, combined with a fast Fourier transform (FFT) convolution in the space domain at each time step. The method capitalizes on the high speed and accuracy of the FFT yet allows the BM to have nonlinear mechanical properties. Using the new method (linear) solutions for various choices of model parameters are computed and compared to the measurements of Rhode. The effect of including longitudinal stiffness along the BM is demonstrated. Apparently it is useful in matching the high-frequency slope as measured by Rhode.