Development of Computer Simulation Software for Single Grain Kernel Drying , Tempering , and Stress Analysis

The quality traits of a single grain kernel can produce an index of the overall quality of the bulk grain, as individual kernels comprise a grain bulk. Therefore, single–kernel drying behavior is important in understanding the overall quality of grain. A Matlab based software package with C++ compiler was developed in this study for describing single–kernel drying, tempering, and internal stress analysis. Non–linear and transient partial differential heat and mass transfer equations describing the single kernel drying and tempering processes were solved using the finite element method. Temperature– and moisture–dependent viscoelastic properties were applied to the stress analysis of a single rice kernel. A graphical user interface and 2D/3D graphics for temperature, moisture content, and stress changes were developed. This software package is a useful tool for engineers, operators, and educators to predict temperature, moisture content, and internal stress distributions inside a single kernel.