The spectral content of the paddle impact is narrowband with a center frequency typically between 1,000 and 2,000 Hertz (see Figure 2.2). Although it does not meet most guidelines for tonal prominence such as Annex C of ANSI S12.9 Part 4 or ANSI S1.13, it does impart a vague sensation of pitch similar to a wood block percussion musical instrument. The radiation pattern of the paddle is more or less a dipole, i.e. the sound from the front and back of the paddle is of opposite polarity and cancels itself in the plane of the paddle. Therefore, orienting the courts so that the direction of play faces away from noise sensitive areas can provide some attenuation. The sound power spectrum of the pickleball and paddle impact has two basic shapes depending on how the ball is hit. Figure 2.2 and Figure 2.3 show the power spectra of a 'sharp' hit and a 'dull' hit. The curves are not calibrated for absolute level, but can be compared relatively. The sharp hit spectrum shows a narrowband signature. The frequency of the peak typically varies between 1,000 and 2,000 Hz. The energy in the dull hit is more spread out, but still peaks between 1,000 and 2,000 Hz.
- 5 0
- 5 5
- 6 0
- 6 5
- 7 0
- 7 5
- 8 0
- 8 5
- 9 0
- 9 5
- 1 0 0
1 0 2
1 0 3
1 0 4
F r e q u e n c y ( H z )
Figure 2.2. Spectral Response of a Sharp Hit
7 of 58 Spendiarian & Willis Acoustics & Noise Control LLC
12/15/2019
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