Finite Element Modelling for Predicting the Puncture Responses in Papayas

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Engineering
• Biomechanical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Understanding the mechanical properties of fruits like papaya is crucial for post-harvest handling and processing.
• Puncture testing is a common method to assess fruit firmness and predict quality.
• Existing models may not fully capture the complex elastic-plastic behavior of fruit tissues during mechanical loading.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a finite element (FE) model for simulating puncture tests on Exotica papayas.
• To determine the mechanical responses of papaya under various puncture load conditions.
• To establish a reliable computational framework for predicting fruit puncture behavior.

Main Methods:

• Developed an FE model using ANSYS 19.1 software, incorporating elastic-plastic material properties for papaya skin and flesh.
• Validated the FE model against experimental puncture test data obtained using a flat-end stainless-steel probe at varying speeds (0.5–2.5 mm/s).
• Utilized a combination of the finite element method and statistical procedures for model validation.

Main Results:

• The FE model demonstrated good agreement with experimental results, confirming its reliability.
• The model accurately predicted the bioyield force, with the highest relative error recorded at 14.46%.
• Simulations provided insights into the mechanical responses of papaya tissues during puncture.

Conclusions:

• The developed FE model is a reliable tool for predicting the puncture responses of Exotica papayas.
• This approach can be extended to predict the mechanical behavior of other perishable fruits and agricultural products.
• FE methods offer a valuable non-destructive approach to assess fruit quality and optimize handling processes.