Relating Grip Characteristics to the Dynamic Response of Tennis Racquets

Abstract

Vibration levels are of major concern in tennis racquet design. If the racquet structure is to be dynamically tuned so that negative consequences of racquet vibration are alleviated, the parameters defining the degree to which vibration is transferred to the athlete must first be quantified and fully understood. This paper investigates some of the main parameters contributing to vibration transfer in tennis racquets via the hand grip. The work presented here allows for a correlation to be established between grip characteristics and vibration response of the racquet. In-order gain more insight into the mechanics of vibration transfer to the athlete the tennis grip is quantified here in terms of pressure distribution and its relationship with amplitude of vibration in frequency and time domain. The pressure distribution in the grip is determined using hydrocell pressure sensors. Grip anticipation times have been measured and assessed giving a comprehensive understanding of the tennis grip dynamics. The gripping characteristics during ball impact are related to the dynamic response of the tennis racquet.