Smart table tennis racket using a rubber mounted ultrathin piezoelectric sensor array

Abstract

We have newly developed a smart table tennis racket containing a 5 × 5 array of ultrathin piezoelectric sensors between the wood paddle and rubber. Since this racket has highly sensitive sensors mounted in the array, not only ball impact localization but also stroke type can be analyzed in detail. This contribution is a pioneering work to realize a MEMS-based sensor system for table tennis rackets, which has the potential to be used in training exercises and games to assist table tennis players during matches and to support athletes in training.