Non-Linear Fem-Based Shattering Simulation of Shelled Edible Agricultural Products: Walnut Shattering by Nut Cracker Hand Tool

Abstract

This paper presents a case study for non-linear Finite Element Method (FEM) based shattering simulation of shelled edible agricultural products. Walnut shell shattering using a simple nut cracker hand tool was considered in this case study. Some engineering properties were determined through physical compression tests in order to describe material models which were used in the FEM-based engineering simulation. Subsequently, a reverse engineering approach was employed in the solid modelling stage and the Walnut shell shattering case using a simple nut cracker hand tool was simulated considering non linearity (explicit dynamics approach). Visual print-outs from simulation results revealed the shattering behaviour of the walnut under defined boundary conditions. In addition to useful simulation print-outs of the shattering case, time-dependant deformation behaviour of the walnut during shattering was represented through charts. This work contributes to further research into the usage of non linear numerical method-based deformation simulation studies for shelled edible agricultural products.