Random Object Placement within a Container

I haven’t dug much into the Blender Python API yet, but I was wondering if there is a way to solve this problem using some sort of python scripting. Here’s the situation. I have a bowl of oranges that need randomly placed, but without individually setting each one in place. My current solution was to use the Blender Game Engine physics and I’ve written an article about it on my website, but I was wondering if there was any other alternative’s more specifically using python scripting.

Here’s the article, http://bchynds.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=21&Itemid=31

You more then welcome to comment on the article if you like, but I’m really curious to learn more about a scripted solution. Thanks.

Do you think this would work with softbodies?
For example if I wanted to lay a cloth (whatever its called) on a table for decoration…

(I might ask the author of the tutorial instead, no?)