THE LAB

The Evidence on how it performed

1: The Acoustic Forensic

  • The Frequency Signature: Traditional paddles peak between 1,000Hz and 1,200Hz, a range documented as the primary source of neighborhood noise complaints.
  • The Rejection Threshold: Our QA protocol classifies any harmonic peak detected above 1,000Hz as a "Critical Structural Defect," ensuring the unit is removed from production.
  • Targeting the "Deep Thud": We specifically engineer the dominant frequency peak to remain below 550Hz.

2: The ZERO Methodology (The Core)

The Hybrid Damping Engine

  • Z-Matrix™ Composite Core: We utilize an propietary EPP (Expanded Polypropylene) and EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate) structure.
  • Molecular Absorption: The internal EVA strips feature a Shore C hardness of 42º to act as acoustic "sponges" for impact energy.
  • 3K Spread Tow Carbon Face: The surface is laminated with premium 3K carbon fiber for stiffness and power without the abrasive acoustic return of fiberglass.

Z-Dual™ Structural Perimeter Frame

  • Double-Tube Backbone: A bladder-molded carbon frame extends through the entire paddle length, terminating at the butt cap.
  • Foam-Injected Perimeter: The frame is 100% filled with high-density EVA foam to eliminate hollow resonance and maximize Twist Weight.

3: The Technical Manifest

Test Parameter Industry Benchmark Zondra ZERO Acceptance
Acoustic Intensity 85dB (Avg.) < 70.0dB
Primary Frequency 1,000--1,200Hz < 550Hz
Energy Reduction 0% -50% Minimum
Swing Weight Varied 118kg .cm2
Twist Weight Varied Minimum > 6.6kg .cm2

4: Digital DNA & Traceability

A "Ghost Overlay" animation of a smartphone tapping the paddle throat, triggering a digital "Success" pulse.

  • Integrated NFC Traceability: An impact-resistant chip is embedded within the throat reinforcement.
  • Digital Serial Number: Instant access to the unit’s unique 8-digit serial number for warranty and authenticity.
  • Individual Data Logs: The chip links directly to the specific acoustic data log from that unit's QA inspection.

5: Dual-Certification Status (In Process)

  • Dual-Sanctioned: The ZERO Series is IN PROCESS of USA Pickleball Certified for both Sanctioned Tournament Play and the Quiet Category.
  • The Quiet Seal: Every unit will carry the USA Pickleball Quiet Approved seal.
  • Batch Compliance: We guarantee that 100% of shipped units meet the < 70dB limit through rigorous ISO 2859-1 QA protocols.

Core Anatomy: The ZERO Series

1. The Face Plate: 3K Spread Tow Carbon Fiber

  • Composition: Layer 1 consists of premium 3K Spread Tow Carbon Fiber for high-performance visual aesthetics and structural integrity.
  • Structural Reinforcement: Layer 2 utilizes Uni-Directional (UD) carbon fiber set at a 45º cross-ply orientation to provide maximum torsional stiffness.
  • Acoustic Role: This 100% carbon construction eliminates fiberglass blending to ensure a crisp response without high-frequency "metallic" resonance.

2. The Hybrid Core: EPP + EVA Composite

  • Primary Core: High-bead fusion EPP (Expanded Polypropylene) with a density of 28kg/m3.
  • Acoustic Strips: Integrated EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate) components with a medium-soft Shore C hardness of 42º.
  • The Science: This composite structure is engineered to "swallow" impact energy, specifically targeting the 1,000-1,200Hz range to ensure the dominant peak stays below 550Hz.

3. The Perimeter: Double-Tube Frame

  • Architecture: A Double-Tube Carbon Structural Frame created via bladder molding and thermoforming.
  • Solid-Wall Damping: The frame is 100% foam-filled with high-density EVA (0.09-0.13g/cm3) to create a solid wall that maximizes Twist Weight and produces “Deep Thud".
  • Impact Stability: This rigid "backbone" prevents frame deformation and blocks high-frequency vibrations from traveling through the paddle.

4. The Throat: NFC Traceability & Reinforcement

  • Digital DNA: An integrated NFC chip is embedded beneath the 3K Twill/UD Carbon throat reinforcement.
  • Instant Access: Tapping this area with a smartphone unlocks the unit’s unique digital serial number and its lab-verified acoustic data.
  • Structural Anti-Snap: The "V-Shape" geometry extends up to 75mm onto the face to ensure handle-to-face stability.

5. The Handle: 360° Vibration Isolation

  • Core Filling: The handle utilizes a low-density foam injection (0.06g/cm3) to eliminate hand-held resonance.
  • Under-Grip Damping: A 1.0mm layer of shock-absorbing EVA tape is applied over the octagonal handle before the final high-tack grip.
  • Termination: The internal carbon frame extends all the way to the 3D-printed SLS Nylon butt cap, ensuring a continuous path for energy dissipation.

Lab Acceptance Thresholds (QA Criteria)

To maintain the USAPA Quiet Approved status, every unit must pass these specific mandatory thresholds:

Test Parameter Required Specification Acceptance Threshold
Max Sound Pressure < 70.0dB REJECT if > 70.0dB
Primary Frequency < 550Hz REJECT if > 600Hz
High-Frequency Harmonics None REJECT if any peak > 1,000Hz
Energy Reduction -50% Minimum Compared to 85dB benchmark