A systematic framework for the design and material selection of composite for tennis racket upon impact

Abstract

Abstract The present study explores the comprehensive composite material selection methodology of a tennis racket involving coupled Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) and numerical analysis. Initially all the possible material alternatives from the composite family were shortlisted using CES Selector 2016. A design space was developed incorporating MCDM technique naming VICKOR (VIseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje), PROMETHEE (Preference Ranking Organisation Method for Enrichment Evaluation) and TOPSIS (Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) to rank the most suitable composite material based on critical mechanical properties to identify the most suitable composite materials for applications requiring optimal combinations of rigidity, strength, and structural performance. Using finite element analysis, the structural integrity of each of the materials was evaluated on static and dynamic stress analysis modules of ANSYS. Out of all material alternatives, T300 carbon fiber epoxy was considered as the most suitable for tennis rackets. Further, a comparison between the selected material was also made with conventional materials and were found in good agreement with selected material.

Keywords

• Multi criteria decision making (MCDM)
• Composites
• Design space
• Tennis racket
• ANSYS ACP
• ANSYS LS dyna solver