A MODEL FOR ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACT BETWEEN A TENNIS RACKET AND A BALL

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to determine the validity of a vibration model designed to elucidate the impact between tennis rackets and balls. Generally, a vibration model consists of elasticity and viscosity. A rod was added to the existing model to indicate the contact point on the racket face because vibration changes depend on the position of impact. Comparing the results of the model‟s simulation and the physical experiment that was performed, it was found that the model was appropriate with regards to amplitude and frequency of vibrations. Using such a model, it should be possible to modify the characteristics of rackets. This will be beneficial, not only for racket selection, but also for new design.