Posted by: Tom Waz (sluggoking@msn.com) on Fri Nov 12 06:25:41 2004

Hi All
> >
> > JJA contends that since I have stated that about 50% of the bat speed comes from torque (THT & BHT), and since rql acquired about 65 mph with a one-handed swing (mostly CHP - little to no torque), this means a batter using both CHP + torque should generate 130 MPH. He implies that this is a paradox that must be answered if torque is a major factor in generating bat speed.
> >
> > With JJA's line of thinking, I would point out that there is an equal paradox to be answered if we contend that a CHP is a major factor in generating bat speed. -- If a batter (as in Nick's clip) can attain 65 mph by extending the hands in a straight path (mostly torque - little CHP), and if bat speed from a CHP is a major factor, then this batter should be able to attain 130 mph if he took his hands in a circular path.
> >
> > Jack Mankin
> >
> > Tom Waz and Mike Myers, need your help. You guys can better answer JJA's paradox than I. (I was considering F=mVV )
> >
> > Jack Mankin
> >
>
> Jack,
>
> I was thinking more of KE = 1/2(MVV) where KE is Kinetic Energy. The problem with this equation is that it is for objects moving in a straight line. There is a formula F = MVV/r which oddly enough is for objects rotating in an arc. In both cases, doubling the energy or force only increases the velocity by 1.41 (the square root of 2). So if either force could accelerate the bat to 65 mph their combined effort would result in a velocity of only 92 mph not 130.
>
> I would like to have spent more time to verify that these equations apply to our example but didn't think I could get to it for a few days and didn't want the thread to die.
>
> I'll give you an update if I find any faults in my reasoning over the next couple of days.
>
> Tom Waz

I found a some time today to review this problem and feel confident we're using the correct formulas.

I also agree with Tom Guerry's statement that there are probably some inherent limitations in perfectly applying one force while executing the other.

The equations also do not account for wind resistance. Imagine the force of the wind while holding the bat straight out from a car window traveling 65 mph. Now try to image starting with that resistance and trying to add another 27 mph to get to our hypothetical 92 mph in the last third of your swing.

Hope this info helped.

Tom Waz