Fig. 3.
Finite element model of alveolar duct. Septum is modeled by membrane (shell) finite elements and ring is modeled by line finite elements. Deformations of ring and septum are calculated for prescribed radial displacement of the outer (acinar) boundary ΔRa = ΔRa,max sin t. Time is a parameter controlling volume history; no dynamics are associated with it. Solution is obtained incrementally using 250 steps over the breathing cycle.