Predicting Cantaloupe Bruising Using Non-Linear Finite Element Method

Abstract

In this study, the mechanical properties of the skin and flesh of cantaloupe were determined by individual experiments and then finite element simulation was developed for cantaloupe fruit under compression loading. The applied deformations were equal to 10, 20 and 30% of rupture deformation or 4.5, 9 and 13.5 mm, respectively. The results showed that the internal tissue of fruit reached to yield point in 20% of whole deformation or in force 90 N and the internal failure occurred with no visibility. The statistical comparison of finite element method results with experimental data was performed. The results showed finite element method was able to determine the force threshold of internal bruising for cantaloupe.