Windkessel Model

Your heart pumps in pulses, yet blood flows smoothly. The Windkessel model shows how elastic arteries store and release each beat.

Windkessel (Arterial Pressure)Live

why arteries smooth the pulse

Controls

Presets

Vascular resistance R

Arterial compliance C

Heart rate (bpm)

Stroke volume (mL)

The Windkessel model treats the aorta as an elastic reservoir: each heartbeat pumps blood in, and the artery's compliance stores it and releases it smoothly between beats. Stiffer arteries (low compliance) give sharper, higher pressure swings. Educational tool, not medical advice.

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Data Inspector

Approx. pressure80 mmHg

Time constant RC1.50 s

Cardiac output4.9 L/min

Governing equation

1.5 \frac{d P}{d t} + \frac{P}{1.0} = Q (t)

Reading this result: With this balance the aorta stores each stroke and releases it gradually, keeping the pulse gentle.

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How it works

The Windkessel model treats the arterial system as an elastic reservoir (compliance C) draining through peripheral resistance R. During systole the aorta fills; during diastole it recoils, sustaining pressure between beats. Stiffer arteries give sharper, higher pressure swings. Educational tool, not medical advice.

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Frequently asked questions

Is this windkessel arterial model tool really free?▾

Yes. Windkessel Model runs entirely in your browser using your device's own compute, so local use is free forever. You only pay Compute Tokens if you scale a job to the cloud.

Do I need to install anything?▾

No. Everything runs client-side in a modern browser — no downloads, no license, no account required to start.

Can I save or share my simulation?▾

Create a free account to save projects, and use a shareable embed or minted DOI to publish a live, interactive version anywhere.

How accurate are the results?▾

The solver uses established numerical methods, but results are for research and educational purposes and should be validated against experiment or professional review before you rely on them.