Electronic percussion instrument

Abstract

The present application provides an electronic percussion instrument capable of inhibiting a piezoelectric element from being excited and performing free vibration for a long time due to vibration generated by striking a striking surface, and capable of avoiding striking false detection. The electronic percussion instrument is provided with: a body portion 1 having a striking surface F that can be struck by a player; and a piezoelectric element 4 mounted on a mounting surface Sa formed in the body portion 1, converting vibration generated by striking the striking surface F into an electric signal, and capable of outputting the electric signal generated by the piezoelectric element 4. The piezoelectric element 4 is mounted with a plurality of piezoelectric elements 4 on the same circumference with respect to a central axis C of the body portion 1, and is mounted with a ring-shaped buffer member D that makes the vibration node of each piezoelectric element 4 located within an opening region of an inner diameter, and makes the region containing the vibration node of the piezoelectric element mounted via the opening region opposite to the mounting surface Sa while making the surface Da of the buffer member D contact the mounting surface Sa.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an electronic percussion instrument capable of outputting electrical signals generated by piezoelectric elements. Background Technology

[0002] As a traditional electronic percussion instrument, the electronic cymbal, such as that disclosed in Patent Document 1, comprises: an electronic cymbal body having a pad portion for the player to strike, and a frame portion on the back side supporting the pad portion; a vibration sensor capable of detecting the impact on the pad portion's striking surface; and an output cable for outputting the detection signal detected by the vibration sensor to an external source. Furthermore, when the player strikes the striking surface of the electronic cymbal body with a drumstick, the vibration sensor can detect this and output the signal externally, thus enabling a performance similar to that of a acoustic cymbal. In addition, Patent Document 2 discloses an electronic drum equipped with the same vibration sensor.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-331972; Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-198375. Summary of the Invention Technical issues

[0004] However, in the aforementioned prior art, the use of piezoelectric elements as vibration sensors presents the following problems. Specifically, the piezoelectric element, which converts vibrations generated by striking the striking surface into electrical signals, is mounted on a mounting surface formed on the main body or a support member connected to the main body. However, when the piezoelectric element is mounted in a manner that allows for free vibration, its own vibration continues for a long time even without striking the striking surface, raising concerns about false detection and repeated sounding. This problem is not limited to electronic cymbals but is prevalent in electronic musical instruments that detect and output signals by using piezoelectric elements to strike the striking surface. The applicant has conducted in-depth research to address this problem.

[0005] The present invention is made in view of this situation, and its object is to provide an electronic percussion instrument that can suppress the excitation of piezoelectric elements by vibrations generated by the striking surface and allow them to vibrate freely for a long time, and can avoid false detection of strikes.

[0006] Technical means: Claim 1 of the present invention is an electronic percussion instrument comprising: a body having a striking surface for a performer to strike; and a piezoelectric element mounted on a mounting surface formed on the body, the piezoelectric element converting vibrations generated by striking the striking surface into electrical signals and being capable of outputting electrical signals generated by the piezoelectric element, wherein a plurality of piezoelectric elements are mounted on the same circumference relative to the central axis of the body, and an annular buffer member is mounted such that the vibrating joints of each piezoelectric element are located within an opening region of the inner diameter, and while the surface of the buffer member is in contact with the mounting surface, the region containing the vibrating joints of the piezoelectric element is mounted opposite to the mounting surface via the opening region.

[0007] Claim 2 of the present invention is an electronic percussion instrument according to claim 1, wherein the piezoelectric elements are respectively installed at positions symmetrical about the central axis of the main body.

[0008] Claim 3 of the present invention is that in the electronic percussion instrument of claim 1, the outer diameter of the buffer member is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the piezoelectric element.

[0009] Claim 4 of the present invention is an electronic percussion instrument according to claim 1, wherein the piezoelectric element is installed at a position where the electrical signals caused by the vibration generated by striking the striking surface are out of phase with each other.

[0010] Claim 5 of the present invention is an electronic percussion instrument according to claim 2, wherein the body part is composed of an electronic cymbal, the electronic cymbal has a pad part having the striking surface formed thereon and a frame part supporting the back side of the pad part, and the piezoelectric elements are respectively mounted on the back side of the frame part and at positions symmetrical with respect to the central axis of the body part.

[0011] Claim 6 of the present invention is an electronic percussion instrument according to claim 5, wherein a cover member covering the piezoelectric element is installed on the bottom surface of the frame portion, and the edge portion of the cover member is smoothly and continuously formed with the frame portion around it.

[0012] Technical effects: According to claim 1, multiple piezoelectric elements are mounted on the same circumference relative to the central axis of the body, and an annular buffer member is mounted so that the vibrating joint of each piezoelectric element is located within an opening region of the inner diameter. While the surface of the buffer member contacts the mounting surface, the region containing the vibrating joint of the piezoelectric element is mounted opposite the mounting surface via the opening region. Therefore, while suppressing the overall free vibration of the piezoelectric element caused by impact, the multiple piezoelectric elements mounted on the same circumference can effectively follow the deflection of the body, thereby ensuring the voltage of the output electrical signal while accelerating attenuation to prevent false sound generation. Furthermore, the buffer member is formed as an annular shape so that the vibrating joint of the piezoelectric element is located within an opening region of the inner diameter. By having the region containing the vibrating joint of the piezoelectric element opposite the mounting surface via the opening region, free vibration of the piezoelectric element can be ensured only in the high-frequency range within the opening region of the inner diameter of the buffer member, thereby preventing a decrease in sensitivity when lightly striking the impact surface.

[0013] According to the invention of claim 2, since the piezoelectric elements are respectively installed at positions symmetrical about the central axis of the body, the output waveform can be attenuated earlier by canceling out the waveforms whose periods are offset from each other.

[0014] In other words, when the impact surface causes the main body to vibrate, the vibration propagates while shifting the periodicity of the waveform at a position symmetrical about the central axis of the main body, and gradually decays and stabilizes. On the other hand, the piezoelectric element of the present invention suppresses the free vibration of the piezoelectric element as a whole caused by excitation during impact, and vibrates in accordance with the deflection of the main body. At the same time, by being installed at positions symmetrical about the central axis of the main body, their output waveforms are periodically shifted from each other and cancel each other out, thereby enabling the output waveform to decay early and suppressing false detections.

[0015] According to the invention of claim 3, since the outer diameter of the buffer member is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the piezoelectric element, the free vibration of the piezoelectric element as a whole can be suppressed more reliably, and the body can be reliably followed by the deflection of the body caused by the impact, thereby obtaining sufficient electrical signal output.

[0016] According to claim 4, since the piezoelectric element is installed at a position where the electrical signals caused by the vibration generated by the impact surface are out of phase with each other, the output waveforms can be efficiently canceled out, thereby enabling the output waveform to decay earlier and suppress false detections more reliably.

[0017] According to claim 5, since the piezoelectric elements are respectively mounted on the back side of the frame portion and symmetrically positioned relative to the central axis of the body portion, when applied to an electronic cymbal having a pad portion and a frame portion, their output waveforms are periodically offset from each other and cancel each other out. Even in large-diameter electronic cymbals, the output waveforms can be attenuated early and false detections can be suppressed. Furthermore, by making the buffer member applied to the electronic cymbal annular, the free vibration of the piezoelectric elements can be ensured only in the high-frequency range in the opening region of the inner diameter of the buffer member, thereby preventing a decrease in sensitivity when lightly striking the striking surface.

[0018] According to the invention of claim 6, since a cover member covering the piezoelectric element is installed on the bottom surface of the frame portion, and the edge portion of the cover member is smoothly and continuously formed with the frame portion around it, the design of the bottom surface of the electronic cymbal can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the overall appearance of the electronic cymbal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 2 These are three views of the body of the electronic cymbal.

[0021] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Sectional view along line III-III.

[0022] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the body portion of the electronic cymbal.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a bottom view of the body section with the cover component removed.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a bottom view of the body section with the cover member and piezoelectric element removed.

[0025] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Sectional view along line VII-VII.

[0026] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a piezoelectric element mounted on the electronic cymbal.

[0027] Figure 9 for Figure 8 Sectional view along line IX-IX.

[0028] Figure 10 These are three views of the pad portion of the electronic cymbal.

[0029] Figure 11 This is an oblique view of the pad from below.

[0030] Figure 12 These are three views of the frame portion of the electronic cymbal.

[0031] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of the frame section from below.

[0032] Figure 14 These are three views of the cover component of the electronic cymbal.

[0033] Figure 15 This is an oblique view of the cover member viewed from below.

[0034] Figure 16 Three views of a buffer member mounted on a piezoelectric element applied to the electronic cymbal.

[0035] Figure 17 This is a graph showing the output waveforms of the two piezoelectric elements in the electronic cymbal of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 18 This is a graph showing the state of the output waveforms of two piezoelectric elements synthesized in the electronic cymbal of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the shape of the piezoelectric element in another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0039] like Figures 1-6 As shown, the electronic cymbal of this embodiment includes: a body part 1, which is composed of a pad part 2 and a frame part 3, and has a striking surface F for the performer to strike; a piezoelectric element 4 (vibration sensor), which is mounted on the inner peripheral surface S of the frame part 3 in the body part 1; and a cover member 8.

[0040] like Figure 1 As shown, the main body 1 is supported at a predetermined height by a support bracket T extending vertically through a support foot Ta. The main body 1 includes: a pad 2 having a striking surface F for the performer to strike; and a frame 3 supporting the back side of the pad 2. Furthermore, multiple openings Ha are formed in the pad 2, and multiple openings Hb are formed in the frame 3. These openings Ha and Hb communicate to form the openings H of the main body 1. Additionally, the symbol L in the figure refers to a fastening member used to secure and fix the main body 1 relative to the support bracket T.

[0041] The pad 2 is made of a rubber material or soft resin (silicone rubber in this embodiment) that can be struck with a drumstick, such as... Figure 10 , 11As shown, it is composed of a circular plate-shaped member with an insertion hole 2a formed in the center for inserting a support bracket T. In addition, the striking surface F formed on the upper surface of the pad 2 includes: a cup portion Fb protruding from the center of the pad 2; an edge portion Fc formed on the periphery of the pad 2; and an arch portion Fa formed by the area between the cup portion Fb and the edge portion Fc.

[0042] The frame part 3 is made of rigid resin or metal (ABS resin in this embodiment), such as Figure 12 , 13 As shown, it is composed of a circular plate-shaped member with an insertion hole 3a formed in the center for inserting a support bracket T. In addition, a pad 2 is installed on the surface of the frame portion 3 and integrated with it to form the body portion 1, and a protrusion 3b corresponding to the cup portion Fb of the pad 2 is formed in the center of the body portion 1.

[0043] Furthermore, a mounting surface Sa for mounting the piezoelectric element 4 is formed on the inner peripheral surface S of the protrusion 3b in the frame portion 3. For example... Figure 12 , 13 As shown, multiple mounting surfaces Sa are formed along the circumferential direction (circumferential direction) on the inner peripheral surface S of the frame portion 3 in the body portion 1 (four in this embodiment), and piezoelectric elements 4 are mounted on each mounting surface Sa.

[0044] like Figure 14 , 15 As shown, the cover member 8 is composed of an annular member with an opening 8a in the center into which a support bracket T can be inserted, such as... Figure 2 , 3 As shown, the inner peripheral surface S of the protrusion 3b is covered on the back side of the frame portion 3, while the substrate 5 on which the predetermined circuit is formed is covered (see reference). Figures 3-6 The substrate 5 is installed in a manner that allows for easy installation. The substrate 5 is electrically connected to each piezoelectric element 4, and the detection signal from each piezoelectric element 4 is sent to the substrate 5. Furthermore, in the body portion 1 of this embodiment, the edge portion of the cover member 8 and its surrounding frame portion 3 are smoothly and continuously formed.

[0045] The piezoelectric element 4, serving as a vibration sensor, is a sensor capable of converting vibrations generated by impact on the striking surface F into electrical signals. It is mounted on the mounting surface Sa formed on the main body 1 (frame 3) via a buffer member D. Figure 8 , 9 As shown, it includes: an upper electrode 4a, for example, made of silver conductor; a lower electrode 4b, for example, made of brass plate; and a piezoelectric ceramic 4c located between the upper electrode 4a and the lower electrode 4b.

[0046] Furthermore, the upper electrode 4a is connected to wiring h1, and the lower electrode 4b is connected to wiring h2. When the performer strikes the striking surface F, causing the vibration to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 4, the entire element flexes due to the vibration, generating a voltage corresponding to the amount of flex. When this voltage is generated, the upper electrode 4a acts as the positive electrode and the lower electrode 4b acts as the negative electrode. Current flows through wirings h1 and h2, and is therefore output as an electrical signal via the substrate 5 and the output cable 6.

[0047] However, although the piezoelectric element 4 generates voltage and outputs an electrical signal by flexing in the direction b orthogonal to the mounting surface Sa, it has a structure that makes it difficult to flex in the direction a parallel to the mounting surface Sa. Therefore, the vibration in the direction b orthogonal to the mounting surface Sa has higher output characteristics (becoming high voltage or high current output characteristics) compared to the vibration in the direction a parallel to the mounting surface Sa.

[0048] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the piezoelectric element 4 has a cushioning member D made of polyurethane foam or the like mounted on its bottom surface, such as... Figure 9 As shown, the surface Da of the buffer member D is bonded to the mounting surface Sa while ensuring close contact. Thus, since the piezoelectric element 4 in this embodiment is mounted with the buffer member D and is mounted on the mounting surface Sa with the buffer member D in contact, damage to the piezoelectric element 4 caused by impact vibration can be prevented. The buffer member D only needs to have cushioning properties and be able to be mounted on the bottom surface of the piezoelectric element 4; its material and shape are not limited.

[0049] Furthermore, typical thin-plate piezoelectric elements exhibit non-displaceable vibrational nodes when freely excited in air. In a circular shape like piezoelectric element 4, a circular node is formed at a diameter of 60% to 70% of the outer diameter; the circular diameter of this node is called the node diameter. Moreover, since vibration with the node diameter as the node is the lowest-order fundamental vibration, it is known that piezoelectric element 4 can most effectively generate large electrical signals when vibrating with the node diameter as the node. Therefore, as described in paragraphs 0036 and 0038 of Patent Document 2, it is conventionally known to use a buffer member with an outer diameter equal to the node diameter of piezoelectric element 4 to adhere and fix the piezoelectric element.

[0050] On the other hand, such as Figure 16 As shown, the buffer member D in this embodiment is composed of a member formed in a circular ring shape, such as... Figure 9 , 10As shown, the back surface Db is adhered to the bottom surface (lower electrode 4b) of the piezoelectric element 4 using adhesive or the like, while the surface Da is adhered to the mounting surface Sa using adhesive or the like. Furthermore, the buffer member D has an annular shape that allows the vibrating joint of the piezoelectric element 4 to be located within an opening region of its inner diameter, in which the piezoelectric element 4 is configured to vibrate freely. Alternatively, installation can be performed using other methods such as heat fusion instead of adhesive bonding.

[0051] Furthermore, while the buffer member D contacts the mounting surface Sa, the region containing the vibrating joint of the piezoelectric element 4 is mounted opposite to the mounting surface Sa via the opening region of the buffer member D. This ensures free vibration of the piezoelectric element 4 within the opening region. Simultaneously, because the buffer member D can reduce the area where the piezoelectric element 4 can vibrate freely to within the opening region, the vibration wavelength of the piezoelectric element 4 can be shortened compared to existing technologies that allow the piezoelectric element 4 to vibrate freely as a whole. As a result, the frequency of free vibration of the piezoelectric element 4 can be increased, and its decay can be accelerated.

[0052] Furthermore, when lightly striking the impact surface F, the vibration of the main body 1 is weak. If the area where it can vibrate freely is small, the piezoelectric element 4 will not be excited, and the impact cannot be detected. Here, in this embodiment, the inner diameter t2 of the opening region of the buffer member D is formed to be larger than the diameter (node ​​diameter) of the vibrating section of the piezoelectric element 4, ensuring free vibration of the area containing the vibrating section of the piezoelectric element 4. In other words, by ensuring an opening region larger than the node diameter, even if the outer end of the piezoelectric element 4 is attached to the buffer member D, the sensitivity during light strikes will not be compromised.

[0053] On the other hand, when the impact surface F is struck heavily, the piezoelectric element 4 is violently excited. However, in the prior art, since the piezoelectric element 4 can vibrate freely as a whole, the output waveform does not attenuate over a long period. Here, since the buffer member D of this embodiment is formed in a ring shape (in this embodiment, it is an annular shape), the area where the piezoelectric element 4 can vibrate freely can be reduced to the opening region, thus shortening the vibration wavelength of the piezoelectric element compared to the prior art. As a result, the frequency of free vibration can be increased, and the attenuation can be accelerated. In other words, the buffer member D of this embodiment is configured such that "the vibration node of the piezoelectric element is located within the opening region of the inner diameter" to obtain sufficient light impact sensitivity, and has a "ring-shaped" shape to accelerate attenuation during heavy impact.

[0054] In this case, the inner diameter t2 of the hollow portion of the buffer member D is preferably 60-80% of the outer diameter t1, and most preferably 70% of the outer diameter t1. Furthermore, in the buffer member D of this embodiment, the surface Da that is in close contact with the mounting surface Sa is a flat surface, but it can also be a member in which a slit is formed on a portion or the entire circumference of surface Da, or a member in which the ratio of the inner diameter t2 to the outer diameter t1 is other than a given ratio.

[0055] Furthermore, when striking the impact surface F, which is located away from the piezoelectric element 4, the impact is attenuated before the body portion 1 flexes and reaches the piezoelectric element 4. On the other hand, the flexing becomes the main body of the vibration and propagates to the piezoelectric element 4. Here, the buffer member D has an annular shape with an outer diameter t1 that is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the piezoelectric element 4. As a result, the vibration (flexing) of the body portion 1 caused by the impact can be followed well, and the performance can be accurately detected even when striking the impact surface F, which is located away from the piezoelectric element 4. That is to say, in this embodiment, not only can the vibration of a part of the body portion 1 caused by the impact be detected, but it is also configured to detect the flexing of the entire body portion 1.

[0056] Furthermore, an edge sensor E is installed on the periphery of the surface side of the frame portion 3, capable of detecting impacts on the edge portion Fc in the pad portion 2. The edge sensor E, similar to the piezoelectric element 4, is electrically connected to the substrate 5 via wiring, and the detection signal is transmitted to the substrate 5. The output cable 6 connects to the piezoelectric element 4 (vibration sensor) and the edge sensor E via the substrate 5, and can output the detection signals detected by the piezoelectric element 4 and the edge sensor E to the outside. Furthermore, the output cable 6 has an output jack J at its end, allowing connection to an external signal processing device (not shown).

[0057] Furthermore, when the performer strikes the striking surface F of the drumstick pad 2, causing the main body 1 to vibrate, the piezoelectric element 4 detects the striking intensity, and an electrical signal corresponding to the intensity is output to an external signal processing device (not shown) via the output cable 6. Additionally, the striking of the edge portion Fc is identified according to the on / off state of the edge sensor E. When a strike is detected while the edge sensor E is off, it is determined that the bow portion Fa or the cup portion Fb has been struck, and a predetermined musical tone is output.

[0058] like Figure 3 , 4 As shown, the bushing 7 is composed of a cylindrical elastic member (made of rubber in this embodiment) with an insertion hole formed in its central part. The bushing 7 is installed between the support brackets T in the insertion hole 3a of the frame part 3, which can suppress the transmission of vibration caused by impact to the body part 1 to the support brackets T.

[0059] Here, in this embodiment, the piezoelectric element 4 is located on the back side of the frame portion 3 with respect to the central axis C of the body portion 1 (refer to...). Figures 3-5 Multiple units are installed at equal intervals on the same circumference, with ) as the center, and simultaneously... Figure 5 As shown, piezoelectric elements 4 are installed at positions symmetrical to the central axis C of the main body 1. That is, piezoelectric elements 4 (two pairs of symmetrically arranged piezoelectric elements 4 in this embodiment) are installed at positions symmetrical to the central axis C of the main body 1. When the impact surface F is struck, one piezoelectric element 4 and the other piezoelectric element 4 can respectively convert the vibration generated by the impact into an electrical signal.

[0060] Furthermore, during performance, when the striking surface F in the pad 2 of the main body 1 is struck, the vibration propagates while shifting the waveform period at a position symmetrical to the central axis C of the main body 1, and gradually decays and stabilizes. On the other hand, since multiple piezoelectric elements 4 are mounted on the same circumference relative to the central axis C of the main body 1 in this embodiment, and each is equipped with a buffer member D, the free vibration of the piezoelectric elements 4 as a whole is suppressed by the impact, and they vibrate along with the main body 1. Simultaneously, by being mounted at positions symmetrical to the central axis C of the main body 1, such as… Figure 17 As shown, waveforms n1 and n2 with periods offset from each other are output as electrical signals.

[0061] Thus, multiple piezoelectric elements 4 are respectively mounted on the same circumference relative to the central axis C of the main body 1, wherein when the waveforms n1 and n2 of the periodic offset between one piezoelectric element 4 and the other piezoelectric element 4, which are symmetrically arranged, are synthesized by electrical or electronic means due to an impact, such as Figure 18 As shown, the attenuation occurs relatively quickly. That is, after the impact, because the entire body 1 shifts uniformly in the direction of the impact, the output waveform periods of the piezoelectric elements 4 overlap. The combined waveforms more effectively ensure the electrical signal output required for impact detection. Simultaneously, after a certain period, the vibration caused by the deflection of the body 1 becomes dominant, causing the output waveform periods of the symmetrically positioned piezoelectric elements 4 to shift. These shifts cancel each other out after the combined waveforms, accelerating the attenuation. Therefore, by installing piezoelectric elements 4 on the same circumference and symmetrically positioned relative to the central axis C of the body 1, it is possible to suppress false detections caused by prolonged waveform attenuation after impact, and to accurately detect only the timing of the impact.

[0062] Furthermore, although the piezoelectric elements 4 in this embodiment are respectively installed at positions symmetrical to the central axis C of the main body 1, they are preferably installed at positions where the electrical signals caused by the vibration generated by the striking surface F are out of phase with each other. That is, if the output waveforms of the piezoelectric elements 4 are out of phase with each other, they can reliably cancel each other out after synthesis, thus accelerating attenuation. As a result, false detections caused by the waveform not attenuating for a long time after impact can be effectively suppressed, and musical tones can be output more accurately.

[0063] However, the electronic cymbals used in this embodiment can be struck across a 360° surface, in addition to being in front of the performer, thus requiring symmetry in sensitivity in all directions. Therefore, it is more preferable to arrange the piezoelectric element 4 in a position symmetrical with respect to the central axis C, rather than in positions that are opposite to each other.

[0064] Here, as Figure 6 , 7 As shown, the mounting surface Sa in this embodiment is formed by a surface that slopes from a horizontal plane (including the horizontal direction α) toward the center of the body 1 in the vertical direction β, while the piezoelectric element 4 is positioned around the central axis C of the body 1 (refer to...). Figure 3 , 7 The piezoelectric elements 4 are installed at equal intervals on the same circumference, with the central axis C as the center. That is, since the inner circumferential surface S formed on the frame part 3 of the body part 1 is formed into a frustum shape, multiple (four in this embodiment) mounting surfaces Sa are formed at equal intervals on the inner circumferential surface S along the circumferential direction centered on the central axis C (on the same circumference), and the piezoelectric elements 4 are installed on the same circumference on each mounting surface Sa.

[0065] Furthermore, when the shape of the predetermined area (the predetermined area in the inner or outer circumferential surface) of the main body 1, centered on the central axis C, is considered as a virtual cone shape, multiple mounting surfaces Sa are formed on the same circumference centered on the central axis C on the side surface of the virtual cone shape (a fan-shaped surface in the unfolded view, the same below). Since each mounting surface Sa is composed of a surface inclined at a predetermined angle from the horizontal direction to the vertical direction β towards the center of the frame portion 3 in the main body 1, the piezoelectric element 4 can be arranged in three dimensions (three dimensions composed of the horizontal direction α and the vertical direction β). Vibration in either the horizontal direction α or the vertical direction β can cause the piezoelectric element 4 to flex sufficiently. Thus, for vibrations in both the horizontal direction α and the vertical direction β accompanying the impact of the impact surface F, an electrical signal can be output well and uniformly.

[0066] Furthermore, when considering the shape of the predetermined area including the main body 1 centered on the central axis C as a virtual cone shape, multiple mounting surfaces Sa are formed on the side of the virtual cone shape around the central axis C on the same circumference (four in this embodiment). In this embodiment, the mounting surfaces Sa are formed circumferentially on the inner circumferential surface S of the frame portion 3 in the main body 1, such as... Figure 6 , 7 As shown, it is formed by the plane (flat surface) corresponding to the mounting part of the piezoelectric element 4 (in this embodiment, the buffer member D), and as... Figure 5 , 6As shown, it has a shape (circular shape) and size (diameter) that are approximately the same as the piezoelectric element 4. Furthermore, the piezoelectric element 4 is not limited to a circular shape; it can also be an elliptical or rectangular shape. Even in this case, the mounting surface Sa has a shape that is approximately the same as the piezoelectric element 4.

[0067] According to this embodiment, multiple piezoelectric elements 4 are mounted on the same circumference relative to the central axis C of the main body. An annular buffer member D is installed, positioning the vibrating joint of each piezoelectric element 4 within an opening region of the inner diameter. While the surface Da of the buffer member D contacts the mounting surface Sa, the region containing the vibrating joint of the piezoelectric element 4 is mounted opposite the mounting surface Sa via the opening region. Therefore, while suppressing the overall free vibration of the piezoelectric element 4 caused by impact, the multiple piezoelectric elements 4 mounted on the same circumference can effectively follow the deflection of the main body 1. This ensures the voltage of the output electrical signal while accelerating attenuation to prevent false sound generation. Furthermore, the buffer member D is formed as an annular shape, positioning the vibrating joint of the piezoelectric element within an opening region of the inner diameter. By positioning the region containing the vibrating joint of the piezoelectric element 4 opposite the mounting surface Sa via the opening region, free vibration of the piezoelectric element 4 can be ensured only in the high-frequency range within the opening region of the inner diameter of the buffer member D, thereby preventing a decrease in sensitivity when lightly striking the impact surface F.

[0068] Furthermore, since the piezoelectric elements 4 in this embodiment are respectively installed at positions symmetrical to the central axis C of the main body 1, the output waveform can be attenuated early by canceling out the waveforms whose periods are offset from each other. That is, when the main body 1 is vibrated by striking the impact surface F, the vibration propagates while shifting the period of the waveform at positions symmetrical to the central axis C of the main body 1, and gradually attenuates and stabilizes. On the other hand, the piezoelectric elements 4 in this embodiment suppress the free vibration of the piezoelectric elements 4 as a whole caused by the excitation during the impact, and vibrate in accordance with the bending of the main body 1. At the same time, by being respectively installed at positions symmetrical to the central axis C of the main body 1, such as... Figure 17 , 18 As shown, their output waveforms are periodically offset from each other and cancel each other out, which enables the output waveforms to decay early and suppress false detections.

[0069] In particular, since the piezoelectric element 4 in this embodiment is installed at a position where the electrical signals caused by the vibration generated by the impact surface F are out of phase with each other, the output waveforms can be efficiently canceled out, thereby enabling the output waveforms to decay earlier and suppress false detections more reliably.

[0070] Furthermore, since the outer diameter t1 of the buffer member D in this embodiment is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the piezoelectric element 4, it can more reliably suppress the free vibration of the piezoelectric element 4 and reliably follow the deflection of the body part 1 caused by the impact. Therefore, even when the impact surface F is hit away from the piezoelectric element 4, sufficient electrical signal output can be obtained. In particular, the inner diameter t2 of the hollow part of the buffer member D in this embodiment is 60-80% of the outer diameter t1, preferably 70%, so it can appropriately ensure the free vibration of the inner diameter area and the installation strength to follow the deflection of the body part 1. It can simultaneously suppress long-term vibration when hitting the impact surface F and prevent the sensitivity from decreasing when lightly impacted.

[0071] Furthermore, since the piezoelectric elements 4 in this embodiment are respectively mounted on the back side of the frame portion 3 and symmetrically positioned relative to the central axis C of the body portion 1, when applied to an electronic cymbal having a pad portion 2 and a frame portion 3, their output waveforms are periodically offset from each other and cancel each other out. Even in large-diameter electronic cymbals, the output waveforms can be attenuated early and false detections can be suppressed. In addition, by making the buffer member D applied to the electronic cymbal annular, free vibration can be ensured only in the high-frequency range in the inner diameter region of the buffer member D, thereby preventing a decrease in sensitivity when lightly striking the striking surface F.

[0072] Furthermore, since the frame portion 3 of this embodiment has a cover member 8 covering the piezoelectric element 4 mounted on its bottom surface, and the edge of the cover member 8 is smoothly and continuously formed with the frame portion 3 around its periphery, the design flexibility of the bottom surface of the electronic cymbal can be improved. In addition, the mounting surface Sa is composed of a surface that is inclined from the horizontal plane (including the horizontal direction α) toward the center of the body portion 1 in the vertical direction β, and the piezoelectric elements 4 are mounted at equal intervals on the same circumference with the central axis C of the body portion 1 as the center. Therefore, even if it is struck from any direction relative to the striking surface F, it can be stably and reliably converted into an electrical signal and output by the piezoelectric elements 4.

[0073] Furthermore, since the mounting surface Sa in this embodiment is formed circumferentially on the outer or inner circumferential surface of the body part 1, and is composed of a plane (flat surface) corresponding to the mounting part (buffer member D) of the piezoelectric element 4, the piezoelectric element 4 can be stably fixed relative to the mounting surface Sa compared to the case of fixing it on a curved surface. In addition, the mounting surface Sa is not limited to a plane, but can also be a curved surface constituting the inner circumferential surface S (or the outer circumferential surface).

[0074] Furthermore, since the mounting surface Sa in this embodiment has a shape and size that are approximately the same as the piezoelectric element 4, the mounting position of the piezoelectric element 4 relative to the inner circumferential surface S of the body 1 can be accurately determined during the installation of the piezoelectric element 4, thereby improving the positioning accuracy of the piezoelectric element 4. In other words, by installing the piezoelectric element 4 corresponding to the mounting surface Sa, the positioning of the piezoelectric element 4 is naturally achieved, thus improving the positioning accuracy.

[0075] The above describes this embodiment, but the invention is not limited thereto; for example, as shown in the following description... Figure 19 As shown, the buffer member D can also be a ring-shaped member with an elliptical surface Da (see Figure (a)), a ring-shaped member with an oblong surface Da (see Figure (b)), or a ring-shaped member with a rectangular surface Da. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the body part 1 is composed of a pad part 2 and a frame part 3, with a mounting surface Sa formed on the inner peripheral surface S of the frame part 3. However, it can also be a member where the mounting surface is formed on the inner peripheral surface of a single body part 1. Furthermore, this embodiment applies to electronic cymbals, but it can also be applied to other electronic percussion instruments such as electronic drums with piezoelectric elements 4.

[0076] Industrial applicability: An electronic percussion instrument is an electronic percussion instrument with multiple piezoelectric elements mounted on the same circumference relative to the central axis of the main body, and an annular buffer member is installed so that the vibrating joint of each piezoelectric element is located in the opening area of ​​the inner diameter. The surface of the buffer member is in contact with the mounting surface, and the area containing the vibrating joint of the piezoelectric element is mounted opposite to the mounting surface through the opening area. This instrument can be applied to electronic percussion instruments with different shapes or other functions.

[0077] Symbol explanation: 1 Main body part 2. Pad 2a Insertion hole 3. Frame Section 3a Insertion Hole 3b Protrusion 4. Piezoelectric element (vibration sensor) 5 substrate 6 Output cable 7 bushings 7a Insertion Hole 8. Cover components 8a Opening S inner circumferential surface Sa mounting surface T-shaped support bracket Ta support feet J Output jack F striking surface Fa bow Fb Cup Section Fc edge L Fastening components H, Ha, Hb openings D Buffer Component Da surface Db back E edge sensor

Claims

1. An electronic percussion instrument, characterized in that, have: The main body has a striking surface for the performer to strike; and A piezoelectric element is mounted on a mounting surface formed on the body portion. The piezoelectric element converts the vibration generated by striking the striking surface into an electrical signal. It can also output the electrical signal generated by the piezoelectric element. Multiple piezoelectric elements are mounted on the same circumference relative to the central axis of the body, and an annular buffer member is installed so that the vibrating joint of each piezoelectric element is located in the opening area of ​​the inner diameter. While the surface of the buffer member is in contact with the mounting surface, the area containing the vibrating joint of the piezoelectric element is mounted opposite to the mounting surface through the opening area.

2. The electronic percussion instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The piezoelectric elements are respectively installed at positions symmetrical to the central axis of the main body.

3. The electronic percussion instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer diameter of the buffer component is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the piezoelectric element.

4. The electronic percussion instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, The piezoelectric element is installed at a position where the electrical signals generated by the vibration of the striking surface are out of phase with each other.

5. The electronic percussion instrument according to claim 2, characterized in that, The main body is composed of an electronic cymbal, which has a pad portion having the striking surface and a frame portion supporting the back side of the pad portion. The piezoelectric elements are respectively mounted on the back side of the frame portion and are positioned symmetrically with respect to the central axis of the main body.

6. The electronic percussion instrument according to claim 5, characterized in that, A cover member is installed on the bottom surface of the frame portion to cover the piezoelectric element, and the edge portion of the cover member is smoothly and continuously formed with the frame portion around it.

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