In this project, my group designed a 3D-printed pickleball paddle equipped with an innovative impact localization system using five strategically placed load sensors. The system accurately detects the force and point of impact when the ball is struck, leveraging real-time data processing to map contact locations. This project demonstrates expertise in sensor integration, 3D printing, and impact analysis, blending mechanical design and electronics to enhance gameplay insights and training tools.

Goals

Create a graphical interface for real-time display of impact data.
Develop a Python localization script to determine contact location on the paddle face.
Record and evaluate accuracy testing to validate repeatability and precision.
Explore potential for sports training applications by combining hardware and software design.

Features

3D-printed paddle body with custom shaft, face, and electronics housing.
Laser-cut acrylic top plate for even force distribution across five load cells.
Load sensor integration with signal amplification using INA1125P op-amps.
SolidWorks CAD modeling to design geometry, cutouts, and housing.
Arduino IDE Serial Monitor used as a simple user interface for live readings.
Calibration process ensuring highly accurate and repeatable measurements (std. dev. < 0.002 across trials).

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Specific Contributions

Designed and fabricated the paddle body and housing using 3D printing, with a laser-cut acrylic top to integrate the load cells.
Implemented five load cells with custom wiring and amplification circuits, soldered and routed through the paddle body.
Wrote the Python localization script to identify and visualize impact locations.
Demonstrated the system’s potential for sports training applications, with opportunities for GUI improvements and expanded sensing.

Pickleball Paddle Coach

Goals

Features

Specific Contributions

Pickleball Paddle Coach Short Demo