3D simulation of hazelnut chopping—A geometrical study compared with experimental results

Abstract

The present work deals with the best method and tool design for chopping hazelnut kernels. The requested final product must have a standard appearance both in size and shape. This is not easy to be achieved. A geometrical study using 3D models—both for kernel and cutting tools—simulates the industrial process and forecasts shape and size distribution of the final product. Final comparison between 3D simulation and experimental results shows an acceptable agreement. A simplified and symmetrical geometry is discussed in the present paper. Work is in progress and further and more complete results are expected, but the method of 3D simulation proved to be very useful.