Measurement of Aerodynamic Pattern in the Simulated Nasal Cavity by Laser Doppler Anemometry

Using a polyethylene model, the pattern of airflow in the nasal cavity was studied with the flow rate measured by a laser Doppler anemometer. Airflow in the nasal cavity was arch shaped with the fastest flow occurring near the olfactory fissure. There was little flow in the middle meatus in the inspiratory phase, but reverse flow was observed in expiratory phase, where the flow rate was faster than in the inspiratory phase. These findings offer a rational explanation of such physiological functions as olfaction and the warming and humidification of inspired air.