A finite-element model of the vocal fold is developed from basic laws of co
ntinuum mechanics to obtain the oscillatory characteristics of the vocal fo
lds. The model is capable of accommodating inhomogeneous, anisotropic mater
ial properties and irregular geometry of the boundaries. It has provisions
for asymmetry across the midplane, both from the geometric and tension poin
t of view, which enables one to simulate certain kinds of voice disorders d
ue to vocal-fold paralysis. It employs the measured viscoelastic properties
of the vocal-fold tissues. The detailed construction of the matrix differe
ntial equations of motion is presented followed by the solution scheme. Fin
ally, typical results are presented and validated using an eigenvalue metho
d and a commercial finite-element package (ABAQUS). (C) 2000 Acoustical Soc
iety of America. [S0001-4966(00)05112-2].