A numerical simulation of airflow in human bronchial passages during high-frequency ventilation

The flow of air in the first four generations of the tracheobronchial tree is simulated using a 2-D, fluid mechanical model and numerical computations. Results are obtained for an asymmetric breathing cycle used in high-frequency ventilation. Computed flow patterns show interesting features including flow recirculation, preferred direction of flow in bifurcating tubes, and a net shear stress toward the expiratory direction.<>