Abstract: The invention relates generally to a mechanical device that efficiently measures physical parameters such as compression strength, elasticity, firmness, deformation resistance and the like, on one or a plurality of compressible test objects including fruits, nuts and vegetables, and which operates in a semi-automatic fashion using a rotatable turntable with multiple wells to hold a plurality of test objects in place during measurement using one or more positionable sensors capable of measuring a physical parameter when brought into contact with the test object.

Abstract: The invention relates generally to a mechanical device that efficiently measures physical parameters such as compression strength, elasticity, firmness, deformation resistance and the like, on one or a plurality of compressible test objects including fruits, nuts and vegetables, and which operates in a semi-automatic fashion using an indexable turntable linked to one or a plurality of measuring stations capable of independently measuring said physical parameters, employing a controlled gravity assisted test assembly as a means for applying a steady, continuous gravitational force to said compressible test objects while recording said parameters by means of one or a plurality of sensor elements associated with said measuring stations.