300 kernels are individually analyzed using a Single
Kernel Characterization System (SKCS) Model 4100 (Perten Instruments). The mean and standard deviation from
the 300 kernel sample are reported for four parameters. They are hardness, size, moisture, and weight. The
machine works by weighing (SKWT) each kernel prior to it being dropped between a rotor and crescent
which crushes it. The crescent has a load cell attached which will sense the kernels size (SKSIZE), the
force (SKHRD) needed to crush the kernel, and the moisture (SKMST) of each kernel. The rotor is ribbed to
sweep the crushed kernel past the crescent preparing the machine for the next kernel. An algorithm using a
4-class histogram to categorize the class (SKCLASS) as hard, soft or mixed.
