Standard Test Method for Determining Vertical Deformation and Area Deflection of Area Elastic, Point Elastic, Combined Elastic and Mixed Elastic Sport and Dance Surfaces

Abstract

4.1 The dynamic interaction between the athlete and the surface is significant to the performance and comfort of the athlete. Therefore, the ability of the surface to deform under load is important. Too high a vertical deformation can affect the athlete through instability of the foot. Area elastic and combination elastic floors may be further characterized by evaluating the area deflection properties of the surface. Floors with low area deflection levels prevent or remove vibrations through damping mechanisms or design components. 4.2 Vertical deformation is a widely used and recognized property of sports surfaces. Governing bodies, trade associations, and a number of international standards recognize the significance of vertical deformation. A partial list of these organizations includes: FIBA, MFMA, ASTM, EN. Even FIFA utilizes a variation of this property. Area deflection is still commonly specified within North America and one governing body (FIBA) and one trade association (MFMA) currently use this property to certify systems within the required testing for their performance programs. 4.3 Vertical deformation and area deflection testing are performed with a Stuttgart Artificial Athlete (SAA) which can be created by slightly modifying the BAA (Berlin Artificial Athlete) from Test Method F2569. Laboratory experiments are to be conducted at the standard 23 ± 2°C (72 ± 4°F), but tests at additional temperatures may be performed at the request of the client. When evaluating the deflective properties of sports surfaces in the field, testing is to be conducted at the ambient temperature. Deviations from the standard temperature may cause significantly different performance levels.