Working Parameter Optimization for Fruit Sizing Equipment with Discrete Element Simulation

Despite significant progress in the field of discrete element modeling (DEM) for agricultural granular materials, currently there is little application of discrete element simulations for agricultural fruit and vegetable sorting and sizing equipment. Thus, this study employed discrete element simulation to enhance the optimization of the working parameters for spherical-shape fruit sizing equipment. The research focused on diameter sizing equipment, investigating the influence of key parameters such as the fruit moving speed and flowrate on sizing efficiency. Fifteen simulation configurations were evaluated using commercial altair EDEM software. The results revealed the optimal combinations of working parameters that maximized yield while minimizing error. This study demonstrates the potential of discrete element simulation in minimizing the need for physical prototypes, accelerating the development process, and reducing time and cost.