A Model for Otolith Dynamic Response with a Viscoelastic Gel Layer

Abstract

The otolith organs were modeled mathematically as a 3-element system consisting of a viscous endolymph fluid in contact with a rigid otoconial layer that is attached to the skull by a gel layer. The gel layer was considered to be a viscoelastic solid, and was modeled as a simple Kelvin material. The governing differential equations of motion were derived and nondimensionalized, yielding 3 nondimensional parameters: nondimensional density, nondimensional viscosity, and nondimensional elasticity. The equations were solved using finite difference techniques on a digital computer. By comparing the model’s response with previous experimental research, values for the nondimensional parameters were found. The results indicate that the inclusion of viscous and elastic effects in the gel layer are necessary for the model to produce otoconial layer deflections that are consistent with physiologic displacements. Future experimental data analysis and mathematical modeling effects should include viscoelastic gel layer effects, as this is a major contributor to system damping and response.