Undergraduate Internship programme: Summer 2024

Using Porous Flow Modelling Approach to Model Lung Hysteresis

Dylan Spokes, University of Leicester

Supervisor: Dr Svetlana Aleksandrova

The project aimed to develop a computational framework to model lung hysteresis—a phenomenon tied to alveolar surfactant behaviour that influences breathing mechanics. Using the porous medium approach, Spokes tackled the challenge of simplifying airflow and particle transport in the lungs, which would otherwise be computationally expensive due to the complexity of millions of small airways.

Employing Computational Fluid Dynamics software (Star CCM+), the project simulated airflow in healthy lungs by modeling lung lobes with varying porosity and implementing alveolar-level hysteresis. By combining benchmark airway models (SimInhale) with lung lobe geometries from the NCAT Phantom model, Spokes created a breathing simulation that produced realistic pressure-volume curves. While partial validation was achieved, further refinement is needed to enhance realism in pulmonary flow.

This project allowed Spokes to gain expertise in CFD software, tackle advanced engineering challenges, and present findings at Leicester University’s MedTech conference. The experience has equipped him with essential technical and research skills.

“This summer project has afforded me the opportunity to be a part of an incredible project, designed to help many different people. In addition, the ability to learn to use CFD software (Star CCM+) which enhanced my work for our project, and in my engineering career for the future.” Dylan Spokes