Buzz pollination: Investigations of pollen expulsion using the discrete element method data

This dataset captures the particle dynamics within vibrating anthers, specifically focusing on pollen expulsion patterns under buzz pollination conditions. Using the discrete element method (DEM) within STAR CCM+, we conducted a parameter sweep across various vibrational frequencies to simulate natural pollination processes. The dataset includes time-resolved metrics: the number of particles in the system over time, particle-particle collisions, and particle-wall collisions. These variables provide a comprehensive view of how vibrational parameters affect pollen ejection. This data is valuable for studies aiming to understand mechanical pollen transfer in plants and could inform agricultural practices for optimizing pollination efficiency. The dataset emphasizes the role of specific vibrational frequencies and collision interactions in achieving effective pollen dispersion from the anther.

Methods
This dataset was generated using discrete element modeling (DEM) in STAR CCM+, simulating pollen dynamics within vibrating anthers to study pollen ejection patterns under buzz pollination conditions. The simulation applied a parameter sweep across vibrational frequencies to observe pollen particle behavior and collision dynamics within an idealized anther model.

Key variables recorded in the raw dataset include:

Number of Particles in the System Over Time: Tracking the total pollen particles within the anther model at each timestep.

Particle-Particle Collisions Over Time: Documenting interactions between pollen particles as they respond to vibrational stimuli.

Particle-Wall Collisions Over Time: Capturing contacts between pollen particles and anther walls, which influence pollen ejection trajectories.

The dataset consists of unprocessed, time-resolved data files that retain the original simulation outputs. To assist in analyzing the data, MATLAB scripts are provided, which include functionality for normalizing particle counts, binning collision events, and calculating pollen ejection rates. These scripts support users in performing detailed time-series analyses and comparisons across different vibrational parameters to understand pollen dispersal mechanics.