Improved tennis ball design: incorporating mechanical and psychological influences

Abstract

Engineering design decisions for sporting goods are traditionally made with regards to objective performance measures with little regard for perceived product feel and performance. This paper develops a design methodology to relate measurable performance properties to player-perceived performance, feel, and aesthetics. By accounting for player perception in the design process, manufacturers have the opportunity to develop high-performing products that are well received by consumers. Product performance and perception are assessed using tennis balls, a frequently purchased tennis item subject to wear during play. Ball flight and impact performance are evaluated and related to player perceptions of ball performance and sensations trigged during the ball–racket impact. Results suggest tennis ball damping, peak force, and drag coefficient measurements can be used to infer perceptions of ball liveliness, hardness, and flight speed. Aesthetic differences, such as ball fuzziness and logo condition, are proposed to play a more important role in perceptions of ball quality than previously thought.