Abstract: The mechanical properties of Canavalia were investigated by a universal testing machine under compression load.The test mechanical properties in terms of the rupture force, rupture deformation, and rupture energy required for initial rupture were considered as the dependent variables. The mixed - level orthogonal experiments and regression analysis were carried out with five independent variables, which included pod width, moisture content, thickness - width ratio, compression location and loading rate of testing machine. The results showed that when the compression direction was transversely in width direction and along longitudinal ridge surface of bean pod can obtain desired shelling efficiency.Moisture content had a significant effect on rupture force and rupture energy, and the negative nonlinear relationships between them were observed. To improve shelling efficiency and reduce energy consumption of shelling equipment, the moisture content should be reduced. The compression location, pod width and thickness- width ratio had highly significant effect on rupture deformation. The rupture deformation generally decreased by increasing pod width and thickness - width ratio. The preferred rupture parameters for rupture force and rupture energy were at compression location of middle pod part, moisture content of 14.6% and loading rate of 20mm /min, respectively.