Accel Digital Solutions, a 3D printing startup in Walker, Michigan, has developed a quieter pickleball to address noise complaints from neighbors near public courts. The co-founders, Brandon Teets and Tyler Marvin, designed the ball to emit a soft, low-decibel “click” instead of the typical loud “pop.”
Noise complaints have led to pickleball court closures in several areas, including the Grand Rapids suburb of Walker. In response, Teets and Marvin created a ball meeting USA Pickleball’s size, weight, pitch, and frequency standards, securing its certification for competitive play.
The ball, 3D printed from a thermoplastic elastomer, is softer and more flexible than traditional injection-molded or rotomolded balls. This design reduces the noise level while maintaining necessary performance characteristics. Testing by Pickleball Sound Mitigation confirmed that the ball produces a quieter “click” closer to a tennis ball’s “thump” and provides adequate sensory feedback for players.
The startup’s new product is available for order on their website at $30 per ball. They aim to appeal to recreational players and municipalities seeking noise reduction solutions for public courts. Future iterations will include more color options and continuous improvements based on user feedback. Accel Digital Solutions is now taking orders for its quiet pickleball.
Source: crainsgrandrapids.com