Simulation of respiratory mechanics.

The dynamic relationship between respiratory muscle effort and the consequent changes in lung volume is investigated. A mathematical simulation based on the structures that form the connection between these two variables makes it possible to lump the contribution from all respiratory muscles into a single time-varying driving force. When this force is applied to the system model, the appropriate lung volume pattern results. The simulation results indicate the accuracy of the model and the validity of the lumped muscle force assumption. In addition, the system model adequately describes abnormal conditions such as decreased lung compliance and increased airway resistance. The results of this simulation suggest that the modeling technique is extremely useful in describing and analyzing complex respiratory system interactions.