Quantifying impedance defined flow

A loop comprised of two dissimilar vessels yields one way steady flow in the absence of valves, termed impedance defined flow (IDF). This study performed systematic experiments on a physical model of two dissimilar vessels to quantify the impedance defined flow effect Results quantify how system geometry and tubing compression frequency vary flow, with maximum flows approaching 5% of the total system volume per second. IDF likely is an important perfusion mechanism in the cardiovascular system and may explain the working of the human fetal circulation prior to valve formation, and that of cardiopulmonary resuscitation.