College
Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences
Date of Last Revision
2024-06-04 07:21:58
Major
Mechanical Engineering
Honors Course
MECE 461 and MECE 497
Number of Credits
4
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2024
Abstract
The ventilation of the middle ear, crucial for maintaining optimal ear health, is often impeded by factors such as swelling, inflammation, and mucus in the eustachian tubes, particularly during upper respiratory infections or allergies. This issue, prevalent in children due to their narrow and horizontal eustachian tubes, prompts the insertion of tympanostomy tubes by ENT surgeons to establish an alternative airway for pressure equalization and fluid drainage. Despite the common belief in the effectiveness of these tubes, there is a notable dearth of research validating their optimal functionality. This study aims to address this gap by systematically comparing the efficiency of various ear tubes available in the market, considering metrics such as material, length, diameter, and additional features. The experimental approach involves using a video camera to observe the inflow and outflow of liquid droplets introduced into the ear tubes under diverse conditions. Post-processing of the gathered data will inform insights into potential enhancements for optimal ear tube design. Subsequent to data evaluation, new ear tube designs will be developed using Computer-Aided Design (CAD), 3D printed, and subjected to rigorous testing and validation. The ultimate objective is to create an improved ear tube design that not only facilitates efficient drainage but also ensures a high success rate of eardrop inflow, contributing to advancements in ear health interventions.
Research Sponsor
Dr. Ajay Mahajan
First Reader
Motaz Hassan
Second Reader
Shahba Tasmiya Mouna
Honors Faculty Advisor
Dr. Scott Sawyer
Proprietary and/or Confidential Information
No
Recommended Citation
Ghumrawi, Reem and Weir, Kristi, "Tympanostomy Tube Efficiency Study" (2024). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 1810.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/1810
Included in
Biomedical Engineering and Bioengineering Commons, Computer-Aided Engineering and Design Commons