Tong Jiao

Title: Tong Jiao and Patent Innovation in Vocal Fold Tissue Measurement

Introduction

Tong Jiao is an inventor associated with Brown University in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. His patent work addresses ways to measure the mechanical behavior of vocal fold tissues and materials being considered for vocal fold reconstruction.

Latest Patents

Jiao is named on 1 patent: “Methods and Apparatus for Measuring the Viscoelastic Response of Vocal Fold Tissues and Scaffolds Across a Frequency Range.” The invention describes an apparatus that uses torsional waves to assess soft materials across a range of frequencies. A sample is placed between two faceted plates, and one plate is twisted at frequencies of up to 2,500 Hz. Laser reflections and photodiode detectors track the plates’ rotations, allowing researchers to calculate the sample’s amplification factor, shear modulus, and loss angle. An environmental chamber can also maintain temperature and humidity conditions relevant to living vocal folds.

Career Highlights

The patent presents a measurement approach designed to characterize vocal fold tissue and candidate reconstruction materials. By capturing mechanical responses across a broad frequency range, the apparatus can support research into the properties of materials intended for vocal fold applications.

Collaborations

The patent lists Christopher W. Bull and Rodney J. Clifton among Jiao’s collaborators. Their work is associated with Brown University.

Conclusion

Tong Jiao’s patent describes a specialized method for measuring the viscoelastic properties of vocal fold tissues and potential reconstruction materials, contributing a research tool for evaluating their mechanical behavior.