OBJECTIVETo establish a mechanical simulation model for studying the relationship between the characteristic frequency and feature location of the basilar membrane of the cochlea.

METHODSMacro-mechanical methods were used to simplify the details of the model. With simulation tools, the basilar membrane vibration frequency characteristics were analyzed based on the box model.

RESULTSThe basilar membrane had obvious frequency-selective properties, and the basilar membrane from the stapes was sensitive to high frequencies while the farther membrane was sensitive to low frequencies.

CONCLUSIONThe frequency characteristics of the basilar membrane of the cochlea is mainly a result of the longitudinal variations of the geometric dimensions and material properties and is not related with other structures within the cochlea corti.