On the undamped natural frequencies and mode shapes of a finite-element model of the cat eardrum

Abstract

This paper presents a three-dimensional finite-element model of the cat eardrum which includes inertial effects. The model is implemented using a hierarchical modeling scheme which permits the mesh resolution to be varied. The static behavior of the model is calculated as a function of mesh resolution in order to check the validity of an earlier model. The first six undamped natural frequencies, and the corresponding modal vibration patterns, are then calculated. They are found to lie between about 1.8 and 3.2 kHz for the standard values chosen for the model parameters. The effects on the natural frequencies of varying seven parameters of the model are described.