Diaphragms

Diaphragms, in a biological context, refer primarily to muscular structures, specifically the main muscle responsible for respiration, separating the chest cavity from the abdomen. It contracts and flattens during inhalation, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity and drawing air into the lungs. It also describes any thin, sheet-like structure that separates or divides spaces. This could include contraceptive devices, optical devices, or components of engineering systems. The functionality of a diaphragm depends on its material, design, and intended use, varying from flexible membranes to rigid barriers.

Diaphragms meaning with examples

• During the physical examination, the doctor listened carefully to the patient's breath sounds, paying particular attention to the movement and function of the diaphragm, checking for any signs of labored breathing or unusual sounds. A weakened diaphragm may be the cause of issues. The diagnosis was based on an X-ray, confirming inflammation of the diaphragm.
• The camera's diaphragm, adjustable to vary the size of the aperture, significantly influenced the depth of field and the amount of light reaching the sensor. The photographer fine-tuned the diaphragm settings on his camera, adjusting the f-stop to control the focus and lighting in the landscape shots. The old camera had a broken diaphragm so the shot quality suffered.
• In the early days of contraception, diaphragms made of rubber were commonly used by women to prevent pregnancy by acting as a barrier to sperm. Women today may use them for pregnancy prevention. Doctors can educate patients on the correct usage of these diaphragms.
• Engineers designed the pressure sensor incorporating a sensitive diaphragm to measure the subtle variations in fluid pressure. The flexible diaphragm acted as the sensing element, accurately translating the physical force into an electrical signal for monitoring the pressure variations. This advanced design utilized a robust diaphragm to enhance overall system durability.
• The ventilation system used several diaphragms to control the flow of air through the ductwork, preventing backflow and regulating airflow to individual rooms. These air diaphragms ensured optimal airflow and energy efficiency across the entire building system.