Date of Award

Spring 1965

Document Type

Thesis - Restricted

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biomedical Engineering

First Advisor

Horgan, J. D.

Abstract

This theses is concerned with the stability of the human respiratory system. Using the model of Horgan and Lange, the non-linear respiratory system is analyzed using both linear approximations and nonlinear techniques. The respiratory system model of Horgan and Lange is discussed and simplified for analysis. A single feedback loop model is derived, containing, in addition to third order linear elements, a threshold element and a transport lag. Using a small signal analysis, avoiding the threshold, the linearized model is treated, utilizing techniques based upon the Nyouist and Pouth criteria, modified to account for the transport lag. Regions of stable operation in terms of parameter values are derived and discussed. The describing function and its utility in stability analysis is considered. After deriving the describing function for the threshold chemoreceptor, the conditions necessary for the existence of limit cycles are determined. Based upon this analysis, a clinically observed stabilization of the unstable Cheyne-Stokes condition is explained.

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