Sensor technology to estimate ball impact location, baseball bat whip-effect and batter swing speed

While performing field tests during my research at Tufts University, it was observed that batter impressions of the bat/ball impact were found to be in contradiction with reality. It was also observed in these field tests that batters could develop equal swing speeds but have very different batted-ball distances. One feasible explanation for the difference in batted-ball distances for equal swing speeds is a difference in bat whip-effect among players. However, no data are available to support or to refute this explanation.;In the current research, various sensor technologies were explored to determine which on-bat sensors are applicable for the determination of the impact location of the ball on the bat and to monitor a player's swing characteristics and reaction to pitch location. A baseball bat was instrumented with strain gages and accelerometers. Players of varying experience were used to establish a database of field test impacts and evaluate the usefulness of the sensors. The sensor data were coupled with high-speed video in an effort to detect and to quantify any possible whip-effect. Modal analysis, controlled swings provided using a high-onset centrifuge and finite element analysis were used to analyze the field data and draw conclusions. Impact location was identifiable within 1-inch 59% of the time using the sensors. A whip-effect was identified and estimated to attribute up to 2 mph in batted-ball speed from a pre-impact bat curvature of 0.40-in.