Simulations of three-dimensional ciliary beats and cilia interactions.

ABSTRACT

A new set of equations describing the time evolution of torsion and curvature for an inextensible curve is developed. Combined with our recently developed Slender Body Theory approach to such problems, these equations were applied to simulate three-dimensional ciliary beats, while allowing for cilia interactions. The computer animation technique, which was originally designed to display two-dimensional beats, has been enhanced to accommodate the new three-dimensional results.