Size properties of legume seeds of different varieties using image analysis

Image analysis system was used to provide geometric parameters of legume seeds, which are important for designing of engineering processes such as drying, milling, germination etc. Measured features of bean and lentil seeds were projected area, equivalent diameter, MaxFeret, MinFeret and thickness. Three approximation models (an oblate spheroid, two sphere segments and a triaxial ellipsoid) were used to evaluate volume and surface area of lentil and bean seeds of various varieties. The best approximation model was found as the triaxial ellipsoid and the oblate spheroid for bean varieties and two sphere segments for lentil varieties. From the model data estimated specific surface area were ranged from 5.1-5.8 cm(2)/g for bean varieties and 11.57-11.95 cm(2)/g for lentil varieties. Image analysis system provided fast and accurate values of important technological properties of legume such as geometric parameters, volume and surface area. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.