Geometric determinism of vibro-acoustic feedback in composite laminates: a multi-source laser and FEA study on table tennis blade dynamics
摘要
The distinct auditory and haptic feedback (collectively termed “acoustic feel”) of a table tennis blade originates from its structural vibrations, which acoustically radiate upon ball impact. This study investigates the vibro-acoustic filtering role of blade geometry—a critical yet underexplored acoustic design parameter. A cross-verification framework integrating multi-source laser metrology (Laser Doppler Vibrometry (LDV) and Laser Interferometry (ESPI)) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was employed. To isolate geometric effects, rectangular blades (W-series) were compared against standard-shaped blades (NG-series) with identical laminate compositions. Results demonstrate that the shaping process acts as a low-pass spectral filter, reducing the first- and second-order acoustically dominant natural frequencies by up to 30%. While fundamental acoustic radiation acoustic radiation mode shapes (bending and torsion) are preserved, ESPI reveals geometry-driven alterations in vibrational energy transmission paths, particularly the enhanced continuity of structure-borne sound into the handle region in shaped blades. FEA predictions corroborate the first-order frequency reduction trend and acoustic radiation mode shapes. This work establishes geometry as a primary lever for tuning the vibro-acoustic identity of sports composites, providing a validated, non-destructive framework for performance-driven acoustic design.