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Research Summary 3-D Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Model Of The Human Respiratory System
Citation:
Masters, J. Research Summary 3-D Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Model Of The Human Respiratory System. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/S-17/424, 2017.
Impact/Purpose:
Development 3-D Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Model Of The Human Respiratory System cutting edge science. This adaptable model may be used in the investigation of dosimetry and inhalation toxicology for general and sensitive populations such as the diseased and the elderly. It can be used for therapeutic purposes such as drug delivery, and for oral/nasal/lung surgery planning. The model may also be used by the homeland security community for determining exposure to hazardous contaminants (e.g., anthrax, ricin) where inhalation studies on humans cannot be conducted. Finally, this model has the additional benefit of reducing animal and human use in experimental testing, thus reducing testing times as well as costs.
Description:
The U.S. EPA’s Office of Research and Development (ORD) has developed a 3-D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model of the human respiratory system that allows for the simulation of particulate based contaminant deposition and clearance, while being adaptable for age, ethnicity, and sex. This model, based on human scan data, incorporates the extrathoracic region, as well as the tracheobronchial and peripheral airways of the lung. It provides the ability to modify internal face morphology to match external facial features, thus allowing for model customization. It also allows for both oral and nasal breathing, as well as variable breathing patterns.