Determining the firmness of a pear using finite element modal analysis

In this paper, the variation of the dynamic characteristics of a pear (Conf erence type) due to changes in material characteristics is investigated usi ng finite element simulations. An image processing techniques has been used to obtain the geometrical model of a Conference pear. The dynamic behaviou r of this type of pear and the correlation of its behaviour with material c haracteristics has been investigated by using a numerical modal analysis. F rom these results, it was concluded that the Young's modulus of the spheric al calyx end of the pear could be determined from the oblate-prolate modes and that the Young's modulus of the stem end of the pear could be determine d from the first bending modes. The firmness of the spherical calyx end of the pear can be determined analogous to a spherical fruit. A finite element analysis using a conical model for the stem end of the pear indicated that a similar formula for the firmness of the stem end of the pear can be deri ved. (C) 1999 Silsoe Research Institute.