Foot-operated pedal

Abstract

The disclosed pedal (100, 100') includes a base (102, 102'), a movable pedal element (103, 103') actuatable by a user's foot, a spring (122, 122') biasing the movable pedal element to a neutral position, a microcontroller (112, 112'), and a sensor unit (114, 120, 120'), e.g., an integrated accelerometer / gyroscope dual sensor MEMS device carried by the movable pedal element configured to sense acceleration and angular velocity along three perpendicular axes and thereby send data to the microcontroller indicative of actuation of the movable pedal element. The microcontroller can generate an output signal in at least two different modes, selected manually and / or automatically, as a function of a user input to the movable pedal element, including a switching mode and a continuous modulation mode. In the switching mode, the output signal is a discrete trigger, and in the continuous modulation mode, the output signal is continuously variable over a range.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 269,871, filed March 24, 2022, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 363,783, filed April 28, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 365,242, filed May 24, 2022.

[0002] The present invention relates to a user operable pedal and related methods of making and using a user operable pedal. More particularly, the present invention relates to a foot operable pedal suitable for use with a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) environment. [Background technology]

[0003] In music production, pedals associated with musical instruments are used to control parts of the instrument or to provide a special timbre. There are several instruments that have pedals for various reasons. The sustain pedal is a pedal commonly used by keyboardists universally to provide a sustained timbre characteristic played on a keyboard or synthesizer or digital piano. Structurally, a sustain pedal is a simple contact switch in the form of a simple foot switch connected to a piano pedal or keyboard instrument (e.g., via a 1 / 4” phono cable). The sustain pedal closes a contact that is hardwired to the keyboard to provide the sustain functionality electronically. Another popular keyboard pedal is the volume or expression pedal. The volume or expression pedal is a continuous controller and can also be connected to the input terminals of a keyboard to control volume or expression.

[0004] In modern times, a digital audio workstation (DAW) is based on a combination of electronic devices and application software to provide a utility for recording, editing, and producing audio files. DAWs come in a wide variety of configurations, ranging from a single software program on a computing device such as a laptop or tablet, to integrated standalone units, to highly complex configurations of multiple components controlled by a central computer. DAW functionality includes audio recording, audio editing, musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) editing, mixing, and mastering, among others.

[0005] Additionally, various control interfaces or controllers on full-sized MIDI control keyboards for musicians are used to control musical note characteristics required for creating music within a DAW or on an electronic music production synth workstation or instrument, such as pitch bend wheels, modulation wheels, attenuators, rotary encoders, touch-sensitive strips, D-Beam™ controllers, etc. However, existing controllers require the musician's playing hand to be occupied to control parameters during performance, both while creating music and while performing on stage. Thus, the use of these controllers greatly limits the degree of polyphonic performance a musician can perform with the use of both hands on the keyboard.

[0006] Therefore, a logical solution to overcome the limitations of hand-operated controllers is to use pedals to perform their functionality. However, existing pedals have certain limitations. Wired pedal devices, commonly used by keyboard musicians, are single-function, have a large size compared to that of a shoe, and are not easily portable. For example, a sustain pedal can simply sustain a tone without the need to hold them down on the keyboard, while a volume or expression pedal can only function as a modulation wheel substitute in default mode. Both sustain pedals and volume or expression pedals also require a dedicated 1 / 4” phono connector on the digital instrument or audio / midi interface to function.

[0007] Additionally, while pedal plug-ins within DAWs currently used by guitarists have foot-actuated MIDI controllers, these are in a pedal board form factor, require external power, and are not easily portable in order to fully utilize their functionality. These foot-actuated controllers are clearly not in the category of wireless portable MIDI controllers. Existing drum pedals or trigger pedals are not available for general use outside the hardware environment of an electronic drum kit or electronic drum sound module, and therefore cannot be used in a regular DAW or electronic music production setup.

[0008] Generally, DAW control surfaces can control multiple parameters within the DAW via MIDI, but these DAW control surfaces are separate audio mixer-like units that must be carried separately and are not very useful during the process of music creation. Thus, these control surfaces still require the dedication of one hand to control the parameters, thereby limiting the keyboardist's or guitarist's freedom to play with both hands.

[0009] Thus, as DAWs have succeeded the traditional keyboard, synthesizer, or digital piano as the primary music creation instrument, there exists an unmet need in the art for an evolved pedal that provides improved functionality to modern DAWs for music production that addresses the aforementioned deficiencies and shortcomings. Summary of the Invention

[0010] In one aspect, the pedal includes a base, a movable pedal element connected to the base and movable relative to the base, a spring arranged to bias the movable pedal element to a neutral position, a microcontroller including at least one processor, and a sensor unit operatively connected to the microcontroller and configured to send data related to the movable pedal element to the microcontroller. The sensor unit may be an integrated accelerometer / gyroscope dual sensor micro electromechanical system (MEMS) device carried by the movable pedal element. The microcontroller is programmed to generate an output signal during operation as a function of a user force input to the movable pedal element. The output signal may be generated in at least two different modes including a switching mode and a continuous modulation mode. In the switching mode, the output signal is a discrete trigger, and in the continuous modulation mode, the output signal is continuously variable over a range.

[0011] Implementations of this aspect may include one or more of the following features: The sensor unit may be configured to sense acceleration and angular velocity of the movable pedal element along three perpendicular axes. The pivot connection may pivotally connect the movable pedal element to the base with only a single degree of freedom of pivotal motion. The pivot connection may be located at a central portion of the movable pedal element between a front end and a rear end of the movable pedal element. The microcontroller may be further configured to generate an output signal using data from the proximity sensor as a function of a user input to the movable pedal element detected by the proximity sensor in a switching mode. The pedal may further include a wireless transceiver operably connected to the microcontroller and capable of wirelessly transmitting and receiving signals. The wireless transceiver and the analog connector port may be configured to operate simultaneously such that one is operable to transmit an output signal and the other is operable to independently transmit an additional output signal. The pedal may further include a connector port operably connected to the microcontroller capable of creating a connection with an external cable. The microcontroller may be programmed to disable the continuous modulation mode as a function of a feature version control instruction. The microcontroller may be programmed to automatically switch between the switching mode and the continuous modulation mode of operation as a function of data from a user appendage detection sensor indicating the presence or absence of a user appendage on the moveable pedal element adjacent the user appendage detection sensor. The user appendage detection sensor may be a force sensing resistor. The user appendage detection sensor may be located on the rear side of the pivot of the moveable pedal element. An additional user appendage detection sensor may be located on the front side of the pivot. The microcontroller may be programmed to switch between the switching mode and the continuous modulation mode of operation as a function of manual actuation of a button. The output signal may be in a Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) format. The pedal may be used as part of a system further including a host computing system running digital audio workstation environment software operably connected to the pedal.The output signal may be converted to Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) format by a host computing system.

[0012] In another aspect, a method of operating a pedal includes generating sensor data with a sensor unit as a function of actuation of a movable pedal element, sending the sensor data to a microcontroller, processing the sensor data with the microcontroller to determine a user actuation command, determining an operational mode of the pedal with the microcontroller, and generating an output signal as a function of the user actuation command, where the output signal is generated as a function of the operational mode then in effect. The pedal can be operable in at least a switching mode and a continuous modulation mode, where the output signal is a discrete trigger in the switching mode and the output signal is continuously variable over a range in the continuous modulation mode.

[0013] Implementations of this aspect may include one or more of the following features: The method may include generating a detection signal indicative of a presence of a user appendage on a rear portion of the movable pedal element, and automatically switching an operating mode of the pedal between a switching mode and a continuous modulation mode as a function of the detection signal using a microcontroller. The method may include switching an operating mode of the pedal between a switching mode and a continuous modulation mode as a function of manual actuation of a button using a microcontroller. The movable pedal element may be actuated by a user's foot. The method may include establishing a wireless connection between a microcontroller of the pedal and a first instrument, and wirelessly transmitting an output signal. The method may include providing a wired connection between the microcontroller and a second instrument via a connector port on the pedal, and transmitting signals along both the wireless connection and the wired connection simultaneously and independently in the switching mode.

[0014] In another aspect, a method of operating a pedal includes generating sensor data indicative of a presence of a user appendage on a rear portion of a movable pedal element, the movable pedal element being actuable by the user appendage, sending the sensor data to a microcontroller, processing the sensor data with the microcontroller to automatically determine an operating mode of the pedal, and generating an output signal. The pedal can be operable in at least two different operating modes, including a switching mode and a continuously modulated mode, where the output signal is generated as a function of the operating mode automatically determined by the microcontroller.

[0015] In yet another aspect, a pedal includes a base, a movable pedal element connected to the base and movable relative to the base, a microcontroller including at least one processor, a sensor unit operatively connected to the microcontroller and the movable pedal element and further configured to send data to the microcontroller indicative of user actuation of the movable pedal element, and a wireless transceiver operatively connected to the microcontroller and capable of wirelessly transmitting and receiving signals. The microcontroller may be programmed to generate an output signal during operation as a function of a user input to the movable pedal element, at least in a switching mode, where the output signal signals activation when the movable pedal element is depressed to a trigger point.

[0016] In yet another aspect, a foot-operable pedal is provided that can optionally wirelessly communicate with a digital audio workstation (DAW) and / or one or more musical instruments, and may further include a plurality of different operational modes, such as switch / sustain / drum mode and modulation / expression mode, and may optionally include automatic mode switching based on detection of user input, such as the presence of a user appendage (e.g., foot) on or near a given portion of the pedal. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs recorded in one or more computer storage devices in a non-transitory format, each configured to perform the actions of the associated method and / or provide the configured operational functionality.

[0017] This Summary is provided merely as an illustration, not as a limitation, and other aspects of the invention will be understood in light of the entirety of this disclosure, including all documents, claims, and accompanying drawings.

[0018] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0019] In the figures, similar components and / or features may have the same reference labels. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a foot operable pedal according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1B] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a foot operable pedal according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1C] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a foot operable pedal according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1D] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a foot operable pedal according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1E]FIG. 13 is a side view of a foot operable pedal according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A] 11A-11D are side views illustrating the pedal unfold mechanism in various positions according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2B] 1A-1D are perspective representations of a pedal unfolding mechanism in various positions according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2C] 1A-1D are perspective representations of a pedal unfolding mechanism in various positions according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2D] 1A-1D are perspective representations of a pedal unfolding mechanism in various positions according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 is a side view of a pedal illustrating its foot-actuated operation according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3B] FIG. 2 is a side view of a pedal illustrating its foot-actuated operation according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3C] FIG. 2 is a side view of a pedal illustrating its foot-actuated operation according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3D] FIG. 2 is a front view of a pedal illustrating its foot-actuated operation according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3E] FIG. 2 is a front view of a pedal illustrating its foot-actuated operation according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3F] FIG. 2 is a front view of a pedal illustrating its foot-actuated operation according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 is an exemplary block diagram showing a workflow of integrating a pedal body and a microcontroller with a digital audio workstation (DAW) environment according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4B] FIG. 1 is an exemplary block diagram showing a workflow of integrating a pedal body and a microcontroller with a digital audio workstation (DAW) environment according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4C] FIG. 1 is an exemplary block diagram showing a workflow of integrating a pedal body and a microcontroller with a digital audio workstation (DAW) environment according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5A] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary method for implementing pedal movement functionality according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5B] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary method for implementing pedal movement functionality according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary representation of a DAW environment visual display according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary representation of a DAW environment visual display according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6C] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary representation of a DAW environment visual display according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of one example embodiment of a musical performance system. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a front top perspective view of a pedal according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an exploded front perspective view of the pedal of FIG. 8. [Figure 10] 1 is a flow diagram of a method for algorithm-based switched mode operation. [Figure 11] 13 is a schematic diagram of a sensor according to another embodiment of the pedal, seen from above. [Figure 12] 13 is a schematic diagram of a sensor according to another embodiment of the pedal, seen from above. [Figure 13] 13 is a further schematic diagram of a sensor according to yet another embodiment of the pedal, seen from above. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0021] Although the above-identified figures set forth one or more embodiments of the present invention, other embodiments are also contemplated, as noted in the discussion. In all cases, this disclosure illustrates the present invention by way of illustration and not by way of limitation. It is to be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments may be devised by those skilled in the art which are within the scope and spirit of the principles of the invention. The figures may not be drawn to scale, and applications and embodiments of the present invention may include features, steps and / or components not specifically shown in the drawings.

[0022] In the description herein and throughout the claims which follow, the meanings of "a" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used herein, the meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on," unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0023] When the specification states that a component or feature "may" be included or "may" have a characteristic, it is not required that the particular component or feature be included or have the characteristic.

[0024] Example embodiments will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein, which are provided merely as examples and not as limitations. These embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0025] Any relative or degree terms used herein, such as, for example, "substantially," "necessarily," "generally," "approximately," etc., should be construed in accordance with any applicable definitions or limitations expressly set forth herein. In all cases, any relative or degree terms used herein should be construed to broadly encompass all relevant disclosed embodiments, as well as ranges or variations as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the entirety of this disclosure, such as normal manufacturing tolerance variations, accidental configuration variations, thermally induced temporary configuration or shape variations, rotational or vibrational operating conditions, temporary signal fluctuations, etc. Moreover, any relative or degree term used herein should be construed to encompass a range that expressly includes the specified quality, characteristic, parameter, or value, without variation, as if the modifying relative or degree term was not used in a given disclosure or enumeration.

[0026] Generally, the present invention relates to a foot-operable pedal for use in a digital audio workstation (DAW) environment. The pedal disclosed herein is a multi-function foot-operated controller device that provides full control of the expressive and functional capabilities available to a creative or performing musician working in a Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI)-enabled DAW environment. In one embodiment, the pedal includes a pedal base, a movable pedal element (which may include separate front and rear portions) that is movable relative to the pedal base, a wireless transceiver (e.g., a Bluetooth® low energy transceiver), an accelerometer / gyroscope dual sensor, an infrared sensor, and a microcontroller. Signal data received by the microcontroller is used to detect movement of the movable pedal element based on user input (e.g., through actuation of the movable pedal element by a user's foot). Signal data from the sensor enables the microcontroller to implement the functionality of a musical instrument controller, which may use the infrared sensor to generate discrete command triggers or the dynamic position of the pedal (with velocity sensitivity) to generate a variable command signal continuously over a range. The output signal may be assigned to any desired MIDI channel to control any number of musical parameters in a DAW environment.Other features and embodiments are disclosed herein, including in the accompanying drawings.

[0027] 1A-1E show perspective, exploded, and side views of a pedal 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] The pedal 100 includes a base 102, a movable pedal element 103 (which may include a front top element 104 and a rear top element 106 pivotally connected together in a flip-open configuration), a microcontroller 112, which may be a system on a chip (SoC) assembly incorporating both a microprocessor and a wireless communication transceiver such as a Bluetooth® low energy transceiver (e.g., an ESP32® SoC device available from Espressif Systems). However, in alternative embodiments, separate processor and communication circuitry may be used. The microcontroller 112 may be operatively coupled to a sensor unit configured within an enclosure formed by the front top element 104 and the base 102 of the pedal 100. The sensor unit may be actuated by foot movement of a musician or other user. The sensor unit may include, but is not limited to, any or a combination of a primary sensor unit 120, a secondary sensor unit 114, and / or a tertiary sensor unit 128 and / or 134.

[0029] In one example embodiment, the primary sensor unit 120 may be an accelerometer / gyroscope-based sensor (e.g., an accelerometer and gyroscope integrated into a single Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) device) mounted to the front top element 104, for example, on a bottom surface thereof. In one embodiment, the primary sensor unit 120 may be used to generate signal data from sensed position data in terms of velocity and / or angle.

[0030] In some embodiments, the secondary sensor unit 114 may be an infrared (IR) based proximity sensor attached to the base 102 that may be used to detect the position of the movable pedal element 103 (formed by the front top element 104 and the rear top element 106) relative to the base 102. When the pedal 100 is depressed or released, the secondary sensor unit 114 detects the crossing of a threshold in either direction, allowing the pedal 100 to act as an on / off switch to trigger a distinct musical event. In one embodiment, the tertiary sensor unit may include a touch sensitive surface, for example, a touch sensitive surface of the tertiary sensor units 128 and / or 134 attached to the top surfaces of the front top element 104 and the rear top element 106 of the pedal 100, respectively. The tertiary sensor unit may also include at least one switch 108 that may be attached on the base 102 or on either side of the front portion of the pedal 100. The contact-sensitive sensor on the top surface may act as a gate for the continuous data stream generated by the primary sensor 120, while the at least one switch 108 may act as a dedicated switch pre-configured for some function of DAW control or mode control of the pedal 100.

[0031] In one example, the accelerometer / gyroscope based sensor of the primary sensor unit 120 may be a sensor integrated circuit (e.g., a TDK InvenSense MPU-6050™ device) that is a MEMS sensor that can simultaneously detect both acceleration and angular velocity along three perpendicular X, Y and Z axes. When the sensor is mounted in an XY plane parallel to the ground, i.e., the XY plane is perpendicular to the Z axis or direction of gravity, then the output from the X and Y axes purely relates to angles along each respective axis. The sensor output along the Z axis, aligned with the direction of Earth's gravity, provides a pure G-force reading in meters per second squared.

[0032] In one example, the proximity sensor 114 may be a sensor that emits an electromagnetic field or beam of electromagnetic radiation (e.g., infrared radiation) from an emitter and determines changes in the field or return signal at a receiver. The detected object is often referred to as the target of the proximity sensor 132. The target 132 may be a white polygonal object attached to the completely black underside of the front upper element 104. In one implementation, the proximity sensor 114 is configured with a fixture 130. The fixture 130 may fix an IR transmitter valve and an IR receiver valve that are part of the proximity sensor 114, such that an IR waver is transmitted by the IR transmitting valve toward the target 132 and the reflected IR wave is detected by the IR receiver valve. When the user applies pressure on the pedal element 103 through the foot, the target 132 moves from position C (see FIG. 2A) toward position B. The proximity sensor 114 is not triggered until the position of the target 132 is exactly on position A. When the target 132 cuts out position A, the signal voltage is turned on and remains on as long as the position of the target 132 is between positions A and B. The signal voltage is turned off only when the target 132 is between positions A and C. Position A can be adjustably established using a distance adjustment setting screw 116 provided on the pedal 100. Thus, the distance adjustment setting screw 116 manipulates the sensitivity of the IR receiver such that at position A the intensity of the reflected IR radiation is sufficient to trigger the IR receiver of the proximity sensor 114.

[0033] In one example, the tertiary sensor unit may include a touch-sensitive sensor, such as touch-sensitive surfaces 128 and 134, and a touch-sensitive switch 108, such that a capacitive switch terminal on the microcontroller 112 is turned on when a foot rests on the pedal 100 or contacts the contact surface area. The contact surface may be comprised of any or a combination of conductive fabric, force-sensitive resistors, and / or flat electromechanical switches. The front left and right touch switches 108 of the pedal 100 may be assigned multiple functionalities. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many of the repeated functions for a user while creating music in a DAW environment are for triggering play and record features. Thus, in one implementation, the default functionality of the left front switch 108 may be set to trigger the play / stop function of the DAW, and the default functionality of the right front switch 108 may be used to trigger the record function of the DAW. By making the play / stop and record functionality part of the default settings of the pedal 100, there may be a further reduction in the workflow participation of the user's hands. Additionally, the switch 108 can be customized to trigger entirely different functions based on the particular DAW environment in which the user is working.

[0034] Embodiments of the present invention provide musical functionality that can be categorized into two broad categories: discrete and continuous. According to one embodiment, discrete functionality is provided by the proximity sensor 114. For example, when the pedal is actuated and the IR sensor threshold distance is cut off from the target 132, there is a momentary excitation of the musical parameter being controlled (usually in the form of an ON signal via a MIDI message) and it remains in that state until the release of the pedal sends an OFF signal. The intervening movement of the pedal beyond the threshold distance between the ON trigger and the OFF trigger does not affect the message sent or the state of the musical parameter to which it is affected by the message, only the return of the pedal to the threshold changes state.

[0035] According to another embodiment, continuous functionality is provided by the accelerometer / gyroscope sensor 120. For example, when the pedal element 103 is actuated from the lowest position of the front upper element 104 to the highest position of the rear upper element 106 or vice versa, a value proportional to the instantaneous position of the pedal element 103 is transmitted to control an associated musical parameter or event.

[0036] According to one embodiment, a battery 110 (e.g., a lithium polymer battery) may be configured between the base 102 and the base cover 118 to power the electrical components of the pedal 100, as shown in FIG. 1D.

[0037] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the modes of functionality of pedal 100 may be user-assignable. Pedal 100 is a wireless (e.g., Bluetooth®) enabled device, allowing the device to cover multiple functionalities depending on the channel over which data is transmitted. In addition to the mode switch 108 built into pedal 100, a software dashboard on a computing device or iOS / Android plug-in running on a mobile device can run a DAW, thereby allowing instant access to the various modes of pedal 100 for quick access even in the middle of a performance.

[0038] Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that while existing software versions of guitar plug-ins provide superior sonic capabilities and existing hardware versions provide sonic quality, no MIDI compatible controller exists to take advantage of the versatility of the guitar plug-in's versatility. Thus, pedal 100 can provide guitarists with a controller of familiar form factor and functionality that can be easily learned to use with any software plug-in audio processor associated with the instrument.

[0039] 2A-2D, the movable pedal element 103 may be formed by a front top element 104 and a rear top element 106. The rear top element 106 of the pedal 100 may be hinged (e.g., by using at least two screws 116 that act as hinge pins) to the front top element 104 of the pedal 100 to form a flip-open mechanism. In some embodiments, the point at which the two elements lock the pedal 100 may have an elevation of approximately 10 degrees elevated from the horizontal base 102, resulting in the rear top element 106 being positioned at an angle of approximately 170 degrees when fully opened from the front top pedal 104. The foldable shape of the movable pedal element 103 allows the pedal 100 to be opened to the full size of a foot, capable of accommodating an adult's foot resting fully on the top element, yet small enough to be carried in a backpack the size of a single footswitch pedal while occupying just half the space when closed.

[0040] 1A-1C, the flip or fold mechanism may be achieved using a single degree of freedom hinge 126 that allows control of a single parameter at a time from a primary sensor. For example, Figures 3A, 3B, and 3C show a see-saw or pivoting motion of the moveable pedal element about only one axis of rotation.

[0041] In another implementation, as shown in Figures 1D-1E, the flip or fold mechanism of the pedal element 103 can be achieved using a two degree of freedom gimbal 124 that allows for simultaneous control of dual parameters from the primary sensor 120. Thus, the fold mechanism with gimbal 124 leverages the ability of the primary sensor 120 to sense position and movement in both the x-axis and y-axis. For example, Figures 3A, 3B, and 3C show the see-saw movement of the top element in one direction, and Figures 3D, 3E, and 3F show the see-saw movement of the top element in a second direction. Software control on the host computing system 742 can determine whether the pedal should control a single MIDI parameter or dual MIDI parameters.

[0042] According to one embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 2A in view of FIGS. 1A-1E, a spring mechanism may be configured between the base 102 and the front top element 104 of the pedal 100, allowing the flip-open mechanism of the pedal 100 to provide both discrete and continuous functionality in a DAW environment. In a preferred embodiment, the spring mechanism may include one or more dual locking compression springs 122. In existing pedals, the coil compression springs are locked (fixed) at only one end since the springs only need to be compressed. However, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the ends of the coil spring 122 may be locked (i.e., fixed) to both the front top element 104 and the base 102 of the pedal element 103 to function in both tension and compression, thereby making it unnecessary to have a spring under the rear top element 106 of the pedal element 103.

[0043] 2A, in one implementation, the spring 122 may be mounted approximately one third of the cantilever length (e.g., approximately XZ=90 mm) of the pedal base 102 (e.g., approximately XY=35 mm) without compromising on the life cycle of the spring 122. When mounted at point Y of full deflection of the pedal 100, the total extension and compression of the spring 122 may be: In compression, for example, AB=15mm: A'B'=ABx(XY / XZ)=15x(35 / 90)=5.83mm In tension, for example, AC=15mm: A'C'=ACx(XY / XZ)=15x(35 / 90)=5.83mm

[0044] Thus, because there are at least two springs sharing the load on the pedal element 103, the total deflection is well within the tolerance of the compression spring 122. Furthermore, the stops 136 under the front and rear upper elements 104, 106 of the pedal 100 ensure that the spring 122 cannot be deflected beyond its spring safety or durability limits.

[0045] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosed embodiments allow for having spring forces in both the rear and front upper elements 106 and 104 without having a spring attachment under the rear upper element 106, thereby allowing for a collapsible design of the pedal 100. The disclosed structure of the spring mechanism can result in a form factor of approximately 120mmx100mmx35mm, for example, comparable to the smallest form factor of sustain pedals available on the market today, approximately 100mmx90mmx25mm. The spring mechanism allows for a resulting savings in space occupied by the pedal 100, allowing the pedal 100 to become a device that can be easily carried in the most portable laptop bag in a music production setting, yet still have the functionality to cover devices two to four times its size in volume.

[0046] 4A-4C are example block diagrams showing a workflow of integration of a pedal main body 400 and a microcontroller 112 with a DAW environment 450 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4A is a block diagram representing the pedal main body 400, FIG. 4B is a block diagram representing the microcontroller 112, and FIG. 4C is a block diagram representing the DAW environment 450.

[0047] According to one example, in pedal body 400, blocks 402-2, 402-4...402-12 (hereinafter collectively referred to as blocks 402 and individually as blocks 402) represent pedal body 400 and a user's foot. For example, block 402-2 represents a continuous movement of the pedal along the X-axis, block 402-4 represents a continuous movement of the pedal along the Y-axis, block 402-6 represents a depression of a front portion of pedal element 103 that can be deflected along the X-axis, block 402-8 represents the presence of a foot on the pedal, block 402-10 represents a left switch activation, and block 402-12 represents a right switch activation.

[0048] According to one example, blocks 404-2, 404-4, ... 404-10 (hereinafter collectively referred to as blocks 404 and individually as blocks 404) represent sensors that are activated by physical interactions. For example, block 404-2 represents that the accelerometer / gyroscope sensor 120 can be activated by continuous movement of the pedal along the X-axis, continuous movement of the pedal along the Y-axis, or depression of a front portion of the pedal that can be deflected along the X-axis. Further, block 404-4 represents that the IR sensor 114 can be activated by depression of a front portion of the pedal element 103 that can be deflected along the X-axis, block 404-6 represents that the touch sensor 128 or 134 can be activated by the presence 100 of a foot on the pedal, block 404-8 represents that the left switch 108 can be activated by activation of the left switch, and block 404-10 represents that the right switch 108 can be activated by activation of the right switch.

[0049] According to one example, in the microcontroller 112, blocks 406-2, 406-4...406-10 (hereinafter collectively referred to as blocks 406 and individually as blocks 406) represent the initial processing or interruption of signals at the sensors in response to activation of the respective sensors in block 404. For example, block 406-2 represents input from the accelerometer / gyroscope sensor 120 being passed through a Kalman filter, while blocks 406-4, 406-6, 406-8 and 406-10 represent individual inputs from the IR sensor 114, the touch sensor 128 or 134, the left switch 108 and the right switch 108 generating an interrupt signal.

[0050] According to one example, blocks 408-2, 408-4...408-10 (hereinafter collectively and individually referred to as blocks 408) represent a mapping of various values ​​that may be generated in response to each block 406. For example, block 408-2 represents various values ​​0 through 127 in response to input from a Kalman filter resulting from activation of accelerometer / gyroscope 120, while blocks 408-4, 408-6, 404-8, and 408-10 represent values ​​0 or 1 in response to receiving input from an interrupt resulting from an off or on state of IR sensor 114, touch sensor 128 or 134, or left or right switch 108.

[0051] With reference to FIG. 4C in view of FIGS. 4A-4B, in one implementation, the mapped data from block 408 may be sent directly in a proprietary format (not a MIDI message) to a host computing system 742 incorporating a DAW environment 450 via wireless transmission (e.g., Bluetooth® signal transmission) out 410 and in 454. The data may pass through a device driver 456 to pedal software controlled by a user interface for mode control 464. The software 458 may assign various MIDI messages based on the input mapped data from block 408. In other words, signals are sent from the pedal 100 to the external host computing system 742 which converts those signals to a MIDI format using conversion software 458 for use in the DAW environment software 452. Software-based MIDI signal conversion, e.g., via look-up tables, will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0052] In an alternative implementation, blocks 412-2, 412-4, 412-6, and 412-8 (hereinafter collectively and individually referred to as blocks 412) represent a constant continuous MIDI message allocation. The MIDI messages in blocks 412 are already fixed and can be continuously transferred to a host computing system 742 incorporating a DAW environment 450 using wireless-enabled MIDI functionality, i.e., wireless-out 410, of the microcontroller 112. The host computing system 742 can receive the MIDI messages via wireless-in 454 to audio MIDI setup utility 460. The MIDI messages can then travel to the DAW environment software 452 via messages to message reassignment software 462. The message-to-message reassignment software 462 can also be controlled via a user interface 464 for mode control, where the message-to-message reassignment software 462 with user interface 464 can reassign incoming MIDI messages to specific outgoing MIDI message formats. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that although the incoming MIDI messages are constant and unchanging, using reassignment techniques, the user can assign multi-functional capabilities.

[0053] In yet another implementation, blocks 414-2, 414-4, 414-6, and 414-8 (hereinafter collectively and individually referred to as blocks 414) represent mode-sensing MIDI message assignments, where a user interface 464 for mode control associated with a host computing system 742 can control a mode of operation within the pedal 100. The mapped data from block 408 can be assigned to a unique MIDI message based on the mode control from the user interface 464. The unique MIDI message can then be sent using wireless transmission (out 410 and in 454) to the host computing system 742, where the message is routed via the Audio MIDI Setup utility 460 directly into the DAW environment 452.

[0054] In one implementation, block 416 represents a gate for continuous MIDI message flow control. The gate may be activated only by the presence of a foot on the touch sensor 404-6 (e.g., via the tertiary sensor units 128 and / or 134). Upon activation of the gate, MIDI message flow is allowed to flow using wireless transmission (out 410 and in 454) to the host computing system 742, where the messages are routed directly into the DAW environment 452 via the Audio MIDI Setup utility 460.

[0055] 5A-B depict an exemplary method for implementing the operating functions of pedal 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] According to an exemplary method 500, as shown in FIG. 5A, the microcontroller 112 of the pedal 100 may function in a modulation mode in response to receiving an input from the accelerometer 120. At block 502, the microcontroller 112 may begin the process, and at block 504, the microcontroller 112 may receive raw data from the accelerometer 120 (block 514). At block 506, the data may be filtered using a Kalman filter, and at block 508, the filtered data may be mapped to a MIDI modulation message (CC-7 in the MIDI protocol). Additionally, at block 510, the microcontroller decides whether to stop or continue playback. If playback is to continue, the process begins again at 502. Alternately, if playback is to stop, at block 512, the microcontroller may power down or change modes of operation.

[0057] According to an exemplary method 550, as shown in FIG. 5B, the microcontroller 112 of the pedal 100 may function in a sustain mode in response to receiving an input from the IR sensor 114. At block 552, the microcontroller 112 may start the process, and at block 554, the microcontroller 112 may receive raw data from the IR sensor 114. At block 556, the microcontroller 112 may generate a hardware interrupt. If a falling edge is detected at block 558, the microcontroller 112 may turn sustain "off" (i.e., deactivate sustain) at block 560. Alternately, if a rising edge is detected at block 562, the microcontroller 112 may turn sustain "on" (i.e., activate sustain) at block 564. Further, at block 566, the microcontroller 112 determines whether to stop playback or continue. If playback is to continue, the process begins again at 552. Alternately, if playback is to stop, in block 568 the microcontroller 112 powers off or changes the mode of operation based on user input via the mode control interface 464 and / or the switch 108 .

[0058] 6A-6C show example representations 600, 620, and 630 of DAW environment displays according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0059] As shown in representations 600, 620 and 630, the exemplary DAW environment may show a tone 606 being played along with a velocity 604. The DAW environment display may also show an event list 602 along with the numerical values ​​of the events. Representation 600 shows the DAW environment display when the pedal 100 is operating in a sustain mode, i.e. tone on or tone off, which the pedal 100 may control using the secondary sensor 114. Representation 620 shows the DAW environment when a tone is triggered by stimulation of the secondary sensor 114, there is no velocity of the pedal element 103 detected by the primary sensor 120, and val is preset to a maximum value of 127 as shown in display 602. Representation 630 illustrates a DAW environment when pedal 100 is operating in modulation mode, i.e., data from primary sensor 120 can be used to correlate the angular position of pedal 100 along the rear x-axis with the MIDI output (values ​​0 to 127 via a mapping algorithm) as recorded in the DAW environment. Thus, the sensed position of pedal element 103 (as sensed by primary sensor 120) in modulation mode can achieve any value between a minimum X and a maximum Y based on the position of pedal element 103.

[0060] FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram of one example embodiment of a musical instrument system 700. The system 700 includes the pedal 100, a musical instrument 740, and a host computing system 742. The host computing system 742 may be a laptop computer, a desktop computer, or the like, and generally includes at least one processor, suitable memory, at least one output device (e.g., a display or monitor, audio speakers, etc.), a user input control device (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, a touch screen, etc.), and communications hardware (e.g., a wireless transceiver such as a Bluetooth® compatible low energy transceiver, a wired connector such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector, an Internet-enabled network device, etc.). Additionally, the host computing system 452, and any of its processors, may be programmed with a device driver 456 for the pedal 100, the DAW environment software 452, and optional pedal software 757. The software may be stored in memory hardware on the host computing system 452. In alternative embodiments, the DAW environment software 452 and / or pedal software 757 may be stored remotely (e.g., in cloud-based storage) and accessed by the host computing system 742 via the Internet, e.g., on a software-as-a-service (SaaS) basis.

[0061] The musical instrument 740 may be a digitally-enabled instrument, such as a digital keyboard device, or an analog instrument with a digital output (e.g., a digital output pickup or microphone device). As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the musical instrument 740 is connected to a host computing system 742 to allow communication signals (e.g., audio signals) to be transmitted therebetween. In various embodiments, the connection between the musical instrument 740 and the host computing system 742 may be a wireless or wired connection.

[0062] The pedal driver 456 is installed on the host computing system 742. The pedal 100 is connected to the host computing system 742 and can interact with the components of the host computing system 742 and with devices and software connected to the host computing system 742, including the DAW environment software 452 and optional pedal software 757. In various embodiments, the connection between the pedal 100 and the host computing system 742 can be a wireless or wired connection.

[0063] Pedal software 757 may be installed on the host computing system 742. In the illustrated embodiment, the pedal software 757 includes a module for non-MIDI-to-MIDI message (or signal) conversion 458, a MIDI setup utility module 460, a MIDI-to-MIDI message (or signal) reassignment module 462, and / or a mode control user interface module 464. The pedal software 757 may control the operation and modes of the pedal 100, and may further control communication between the pedal 100 and the DAW environment software 452 and / or components of the host computing system 742 (e.g., its display, audio speakers, etc.).

[0064] 8-13 illustrate a pedal and associated method of operation according to an additional embodiment of the invention suitable for controlling signals associated with a musical instrument, e.g., in a digital audio workstation (DAW) environment, in a manner generally similar to the embodiments described above. Signals may be received from the musical instrument to the pedal, and then a user may control the pedal with the user's foot (or other appendage) to control output signals from the pedal, which may be sent to an external computer, e.g., in Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) format or another desired format.

[0065] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, one embodiment of a pedal 100' includes a base 102', a movable pedal element 103' (pivotally movable relative to the base 102'), at least one spring element 122' operably engaged between the base 102' and the movable pedal element 103', a power source 110' (e.g., a 1500-2000 mAh lithium polymer rechargeable battery), a microcontroller 112', and various sensors (e.g., sensors 120' and 128').

[0066] The base 102' is a main body that provides a base for the pedal 100' that may rest on the ground. The base 102' may have a removable bottom portion (or access panel) 102B.

[0067] In the illustrated embodiment, the movable pedal element 103' is pivotally connected to the base 102' by a pivot connection (or hinge) 126' that is generally midway between the front and rear ends. In the illustrated embodiment, the pivot connection 126' has a single degree of freedom such that the user can pivot the movable pedal element 103' in two directions about the pivot axis A (i.e., by depressing either the front end of the movable pedal element 103' closest to the user or by depressing the rear of the movable pedal element 103' furthest from the user). The movable pedal element 103' may optionally include a resilient material 103R on its top surface that may optionally be woven in to help enhance user comfort and grip.

[0068] One or more springs 122' may be connected between the base 102' and the movable pedal element 103' (e.g., coil springs fixed at opposite ends to the base 102' and the movable pedal element 103', respectively) to bias the movable pedal element 103' to an equilibrium or neutral position in the absence of user force input applied to the movable pedal element 103', thus enabling the pedal 100', when at rest, to be ready to accept user input to pivot the movable pedal element 103' in either direction away from the equilibrium or neutral position. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the springs 122' may be spaced from the pivot connection 126'.

[0069] The microcontroller 112' may be a system on chip (SoC) processor (e.g., an ESP32® SoC device available from Espressif Systems) running a low energy wireless (e.g., Bluetooth®) MIDI library having multiple functions or, in an alternative embodiment, only two functions, e.g., a) sustain / switch / drums and b) modulation / expression.

[0070] A sensor 120' having accelerometer / gyroscope functionality may be carried by the movable pedal element 103' (e.g., mounted on the underside of the movable pedal element 103' between the movable pedal element 103' and the base 102') and used to sense acceleration and rotational / angular velocity of the movable pedal element 103' along three perpendicular X, Y and Z axes and send signals to the microcontroller 112' containing accelerometer / gyroscope based sensor data in order to determine the position of the movable pedal element 103' and / or control an output signal from the pedal 100'. For example, the sensor 120' may be an integrated circuit having accelerometer / gyroscope based sensor functionality (e.g., a TDK InvenSense MPU-6050™ device) mounted on the movable pedal element 103' (e.g., at its lower front end) and operably connected to the microcontroller 112'. The sensor 120' can detect movement of the movable pedal element 103' in terms of acceleration and / or velocity along multiple axes and can send appropriate signals to the microcontroller 112' which can use that data to determine the position of the movable pedal element 103' at any given time (e.g., angular position relative to an equilibrium or neutral position). Additionally, in some embodiments, the sensor 120' can generate signals usable to operate the pedal 100' in either or both of the sustain / switch / drum or expression / modulation modes without the need for a secondary proximity sensor.

[0071] Additionally, one or more user appendage detection sensors 128' may be provided on or near the top surface of the movable pedal element 103' to enable automatic switching between pedal operating modes, where accelerometer / gyroscope based sensor data can govern the manner in which the microcontroller 112' uses it to control the output signal from the pedal 100'. For example, the sensor 128' may be one or more force sensing resistors (FSRs) carried by the movable pedal element 103' and provided on or near the top thereof, e.g., beneath the elastic material 103R. The operation of the sensor 128' is discussed further below.

[0072] One or more connector ports 140A and 140D may be provided on the pedal 100'. For example, a digital connector port 140D (e.g., a USB-C connector) may be provided for providing external power and / or charging the battery 110', for digital-to-analog conversion (DAC) of the output signal (e.g., via an additional breakout cable - not shown), for firmware flashing, and / or other desired functionality. Additionally, an analog connector port 140A may be provided for analog signal input and / or output, e.g., to accept a conventional instrument cable wire analog plug. The analog connector port 140A and / or the digital connector port 140D in combination with a wireless connection may also enable simultaneous use with multiple instruments or other devices (e.g., in switching / sustain / drum modes).

[0073] One or more buttons, switches, and / or the like may be provided on the pedal 100'. For example, a power button 108P may be provided, which may have an incorporated visual indicator (e.g., a light emitting diode) that may flash to indicate wireless connection status. A second button 108S (e.g., a mode switch button) may also be provided, which may also have an incorporated visual indicator (e.g., a light emitting diode) that may control wireless connection and / or pedal operation mode switching. The visual indicators on the buttons 108P and 108S together may indicate various modes or statuses of the pedal 100' during operation. In some embodiments, the visual indicators may each be multi-colored diodes or an array of different single-color LEDs. The long and short press actions of the buttons 108P and 108S may also allow additional control functions to be achieved using only a limited number of physical buttons. The following is an example of button functionality and associated visual indicator states: Startup after the power button 1080P is pressed - Auto mode default (both LEDs steady on); one press of the second (mode) button 108S - Dedicated / Latched sustain / switch / drum mode on (second button 108S LED steady on and power button 108P LED steady off); second / double press of the second (mode) button 108S - Dedicated / Latched expression / modulation mode (second button 108S LED steady off and power button 108P LED steady on); long press of the second (mode) button 108S - Polarity change to wired sustain mode (both LEDs steady off). Other mode functions are possible, including specific button behaviors of wireless (e.g., Bluetooth®) discoverable + disconnected modes (blinking LEDs) and / or LED color indications, e.g., battery low - red, battery half empty - green, and battery full - blue.

[0074] The specific hardware described above is disclosed only as examples and not as limitations.

[0075] Pedal 100' may have multiple operating mode settings including, for example, (1) dedicated switch / sustain / drum mode (latch mode for binary on / off switching control of the output signal as separate triggers), (2) dedicated expression / modulation mode (latch mode for essentially continuously variable control of the output signal over a range), and (3) sustain+expression automatic switching mode (described below). The dedicated sustain or expression modes may each provide a different type of control of the output signal from the pedal. The pedal operating modes may be user-selectable via a manual switch or button, software-based control (e.g., via an external computer), and / or managed by automatic mode switching (e.g., as described below).

[0076] An expression / modulation mode may be provided using a signal sent from a sensor 120' to the microcontroller 112' indicating the instantaneous position of the movable pedal element 103' over a range of motion to provide continuous modulation of a parameter (e.g., a MIDI parameter) that may be reflected in an output signal from the pedal 100'. Such an expression / modulation mode may operate in the same or substantially similar manner as described with respect to other embodiments (see, e.g., FIG. 5A and corresponding discussion).

[0077] The switch / sustain / drum mode functionality of pedal 100' may be implemented using computer control and associated software that utilizes signals from sensor 120'. Switch / sustain / drum mode may be used to generate a binary on / off (or activated / deactivated) trigger output signal from pedal 100'. For such sustain functionality, an algorithm-based software switch may use x-axis position data derived from a signal from sensor 120' (e.g., an MPU-6050™ integrated circuit device mapped between 0 and 127). For example, when operating in sustain mode as shown in FIG. 10, in an equilibrium or neutral position (e.g., with no user input force applied to movable pedal element 103'), the position data may be mapped to a desired value (e.g., 64) (step 900), and when movable pedal element 103' is depressed forward, the x-axis position data drops to the lowest point of 0. When the number of x-axis position data is getting low, the pedal 100' can set any value of x-axis position data (e.g., 45 or 46) as the primary trigger point of the sustain function (step 902). A higher secondary conversion trigger point can be set (e.g., 60 or 61 x-axis position data) (step 904) that is used to rearm the algorithm to look for the primary trigger point condition to be met. Such rearm can essentially provide a dead zone that avoids false switch commands caused by small movements of the movable pedal element 103' while being further depressed by the user, by allowing a new switch command to be recognized only after the movable pedal element 103' has returned to an equilibrium or neutral position or relatively close thereto (e.g., within approximately the first 5-10% of the forward depressible range of the movable pedal element 103'). Using signal data from the microcontroller 112' and the sensor 120', the pedal 100' can then detect and monitor the position of the movable pedal element 103' and its direction of movement, which may occur continuously (step 906).When the position data is being lowered by a user depressing the front of the movable pedal element 103', the microcontroller 112' evaluates the position data (and optionally also the movement direction data) to determine if a primary trigger point has been reached (step 908). When the primary trigger point has been reached, the microcontroller 112' can activate the switch / sustain / drum function (step 910). The microcontroller 112' can continue to detect and / or monitor the position of the movable pedal element 103' to determine if a secondary trigger point has been reached (step 912), and when the secondary transition trigger point has been reached, the microcontroller 112' can deactivate the switch / sustain function (step 914). In drum mode, deactivation may instead cause an activation to effectively automatically follow after, for example, a drum sound has been triggered, but the possibility of another activation at the primary trigger point may be rearmed following the secondary trigger point being reached, which may prevent, for example, an unwanted drum sound from being triggered. After the switch / sustain function is deactivated, the method may be rearmed and then return to detecting pedal position and determining if the primary trigger point has been reached (steps 906 and 908). When in sustain mode, movement of the movable pedal element 103' in the rearward direction beyond the equilibrium or neutral position (e.g., mapped points 65-127) may have essentially no effect on the pedal's output signal or may be otherwise ignored in some embodiments. Such a sustain mode algorithmic switch does not require a physical switch (e.g., does not require a proximity sensor in addition to sensor 120' as described with respect to other embodiments), although a redundant physical switch may also be provided, if desired. The algorithmic software switch may be active only when the pedal operating mode is set to sustain mode (either manually or via an automatic switch).Thus, the method illustrated in FIG. 10 may be executed continuously when the pedal 100' is in sustain mode, and may be terminated whenever the sustain mode is interrupted.

[0078] Some embodiments of the pedal 100' may include automatic mode switching functionality, which may be implemented using a sensor 128' (e.g., an FSR sensor). In that way, the pedal 100' may change operational modes manually, such as using a button (e.g., secondary button 108S), or via commands sent via a host computing system 742 (including DAW environment software 452) operably connected to the pedal 100' (e.g., via a wireless connection) and / or via sensor-based automatic mode switching. An example embodiment of sensor-based, computer-controlled automatic mode switching functionality is as follows:

[0079] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11 , a first sensor 128A′ (e.g., a first FSR) may be located in front of (closer to) the pivot axis A of the foot-operable movable pedal element 103′, while a second sensor 128B′ (e.g., a second FSR) may be located behind (away from) the pivot axis A. That is, the first and second sensors 128A′ and 128B′ may be located on opposite sides of the pivot axis A about which the movable pedal element 103′ may pivot based on user control (e.g., foot actuation by the user). Each sensor 128A′ and 128B′ may detect the presence of a user appendage, e.g., a user's foot, on the movable pedal element 103′ adjacent to the corresponding sensor 128A′ and / or 128B′. A user can place his or her foot on different portions of the movable pedal element 103' depending on the desired operating mode of the pedal 100', and the pedal 100' (e.g., via an on-board microcontroller 112') can use input from the first and second sensors 128A' and / or 128B' to determine the position of the user's appendage and command the operating mode of the pedal 100', for example, during a binary switching mode (e.g., a "sustain" mode with a separate trigger signal) or a continuous control mode (e.g., a "modulation" or "expression" mode). A given sensor 128A' or 128B' can be considered to be "on" when that sensor 128A' or 128B' detects the presence of a user's appendage on that sensor 128A' and / or 128B', and conversely, can be considered to be "off" when no user appendage is detected thereon. For example, if the first sensor 128A' is on and the second sensor 128B' is off, the pedal 100' can function in a sustain mode, and if the first sensor 128A' is on and the second sensor 128B' is also on, the pedal 100' can function in a modulation mode. Thus, the combined operational on / off (or activated / deactivated) state of the first and second sensors 128A' and / or 128B' can act as a gate for the modulation message.

[0080] 12 illustrates an alternative embodiment in which the first and second sensors 128A' and / or 128B' are substantially rectangular FSRs arranged diagonally (e.g., adjacent angles of the first sensor 128A' and / or the second sensor 128B' pointing to each other and at approximately 45 degrees to the pivot axis). The operation of the embodiment of FIG. 12 may otherwise be substantially similar or identical to that described with respect to the embodiment of FIG. 11. Additionally, other shapes and arrangements of the first and second sensors 128A' and / or 128B' may be possible in further embodiments. For example, in further embodiments, a cross-shaped sensor arrangement may be used.

[0081] FIG. 13 illustrates yet another embodiment that uses a single sensor 128X' (e.g., FSR) rather than two sensors as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 11 and 12. More specifically, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 13, the sensor 128X' is located behind (away from the user) the pivot axis A of the foot-operable movable pedal element 103'. When the sensor 128X' is on (i.e., detecting the presence of a user appendage, such as the user's foot, adjacent the sensor 128X' on the movable pedal element 103'), the pedal 100' can operate in a continuous control mode (e.g., modulation or "expression" mode), and when the sensor 128X' is off, the pedal 100' can operate in a binary switching mode (e.g., sustain mode). Thus, the on / off (or activated / deactivated) state of the sensor 128X' can act as a gate for the modulation message. The embodiment of Figure 13 allows for the same or similar functionality as the embodiments of Figures 11 and 12, but using only a single user appendage detection sensor rather than multiple sensors.

[0082] Various breakout cables may optionally be used with pedal 100'. For example, a first breakout cable connectable to pedal 100' may be a USB-C to single ¼" mono female phono connector engageable with connector port 140D. The first breakout cable may allow pedal 100' to be used like a regular sustain pedal, allowing a user to connect pedal 100' to a keyboard or other instrument, for example, via a ¼" mono phono cable to the sustain socket of such an instrument. The second breakout cable can be a USB-C to dual 1 / 4" mono female phono connectors mateable with connector port 140D. The second breakout cable can allow a user to connect pedal 100' via a 1 / 4" mono phono cable to a sustain pedal socket on a keyboard or other instrument, allowing analog connector port (socket) 140A to be used in the same manner as the instrument's expression pedal socket for a regular sustain pedal and fully wired functionality. The third breakout cable mateable with digital connector port 140D can be a USB-C to single 5-pin DIN plug for legacy MIDI connectivity. The single DIN plug of the third breakout cable can output both sustain and modulation mode MIDI messages. Note that any of the breakout cables described may be used as needed for a particular application, or may be omitted for a completely wireless implementation. In some embodiments, a kit may be provided that includes multiple breakout cables.

[0083] Additionally, firmware versioning of the microcontroller 112' and / or other components of the pedal 100' can also control features. For example, a base version can offer only a switch / sustain mode, a mid-level version can offer all the base features plus a drum mode, and a top-level version can offer all the base and mid-level version features plus an expression / modulation mode. Thus, the same hardware can be enabled differently using firmware and / or software control that can be modified or locked / unlocked over time. For example, a given device can have different features that are activated or deactivated over time via firmware and / or software versioning.

[0084] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiments of the present disclosure provide the first multi-functional foot-operated MIDI compatible pedal that can make playing more organic and free up the user's hands to play polyphonic music. The pedal 100 or 100' also saves workflow time and significantly enhances the persuasiveness of musical expression. Thus, there is no requirement for users to play a musical part that is intended to be played by their other hand or to derive automation of MIDI parameters as a separate process after a polyphonic performance using both hands, thereby facilitating the musician's intuitive playing.

[0085] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that kick drum pedals are typically intended to be part of a dedicated electronic drum kit or connected to an electronic drum module. As disclosed herein, the pedal 100 or 100' can provide the same functionality outside of such a dedicated hardware-based electronic drum kit by assigning MIDI tone on / off messages to any particular tone, kick or any other sound for the user to assign during a performance. The pedal 100 or 100' can also be used to assign a sustained bass tone or tone modulation or any other sound that the user needs to trigger during playing.

[0086] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and alternatives to those details may be developed in light of the overall teachings of the present disclosure. The presently preferred embodiments described herein are intended to be merely illustrative and not limiting with respect to the scope of the invention, which shall be given the full breadth of the appended claims and any and all equivalents thereof. For example, although the use of wireless or Bluetooth® wireless signals has been discussed, in alternative embodiments, the signals and communications described herein may instead be transmitted via wired connections.

[0087] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the present invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions, implementations, or examples, which are included to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to those skilled in the art. For example, features described with respect to one embodiment may generally be used with features of any other disclosed embodiment. Furthermore, although described with respect to use in musical instruments, the disclosed pedals may have functionality for use in other control areas, such as, for example, for controlling video game console operations, as an alternative to hand-operated controllers or switches for physically disabled users who are unable to use handheld controllers and the like.

Claims

1. A base and a movable pedal element connected to the base and movable relative to the base; a spring arranged to bias the moveable pedal element against a neutral position; a microcontroller including at least one processor; a sensor unit operatively connected to said microcontroller and configured to send data related to said movable pedal element to said microcontroller, said sensor unit being an integrated accelerometer / gyroscope dual sensor micro-electro-mechanical system device carried by said movable pedal element; wherein the microcontroller is programmed to generate an output signal during operation as a function of a user force input to the movable pedal element, the output signal being generated in at least two different modes including a switching mode and a continuous modulation mode, wherein in the switching mode the output signal is a discrete trigger and in the continuous modulation mode the output signal is continuously variable over a range.

2. The pedal of claim 1 , wherein the sensor unit is configured to sense acceleration and angular velocity of the movable pedal element along three perpendicular axes.

3. The pedal of claim 1 further comprising a pivot connection pivotally connecting said movable pedal element to said base, said pivot connection having only a single degree of freedom of pivotal movement.

4. 4. The pedal of claim 3, wherein the pivot connection is located at a central portion of the movable pedal element between a front end and a rear end of the movable pedal element.

5. 2. The pedal of claim 1, further comprising a proximity sensor configured to detect proximity of the movable pedal element to a target, the proximity sensor operably connected to the microcontroller, the microcontroller configured to use data from the proximity sensor to generate the output signal as a function of a user input to the movable pedal element detected by the proximity sensor in the switching mode.

6. a wireless transceiver operatively connected to the microcontroller and capable of wirelessly transmitting and receiving signals; The pedal of claim 1 further comprising:

7. 2. The pedal of claim 1, further comprising an analog connector port operably connected to the microcontroller capable of making an electrical connection with an external cable, wherein the wireless transceiver and the analog connector port are configured to operate simultaneously such that one of the wireless transceiver and the analog connector port is operable to transmit the output signal and the other of the wireless transceiver and the analog connector port is operable to independently transmit an additional output signal.

8. a connector port operatively connected to said microcontroller capable of making a connection with an external cable; The pedal of claim 1 further comprising:

9. 2. The pedal of claim 1, wherein the microcontroller is programmed to disable the continuous modulation mode as a function of a feature version control instruction.

10. 2. The pedal of claim 1, further comprising a user appendage detection sensor carried by the movable pedal element and operably connected to the microcontroller, the microcontroller being programmed to automatically switch between the switching mode and the continuous modulation mode as a function of data from the user appendage detection sensor indicating the presence or absence of a user appendage on the movable pedal element adjacent to the user appendage detection sensor.

11. The pedal of claim 10 , wherein the user appendage detection sensor comprises a force-sensing resistor.

12. The pedal of claim 10 , wherein the user appendage detection sensor is located aft of a pivot axis of the moveable pedal element.

13. The pedal of claim 12, further comprising an additional user appendage detection sensor carried by the movable pedal element and operably connected to the microcontroller, the additional user appendage detection sensor being located forward of the pivot axis.

14. 2. The pedal of claim 1, further comprising a button operatively connected to the microcontroller, the microcontroller programmed to switch between the switching mode and the continuous modulation mode as a function of manual actuation of the button.

15. 2. The pedal of claim 1, wherein the output signal is in Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) format.

16. A pedal according to claim 1; a host computing system running digital audio workstation environment software operably connected to said pedal; A system comprising:

17. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the output signal is converted to a Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) format by the host computing system.

18. 1. A method of operating a pedal, comprising: generating sensor data with the sensor unit as a function of actuation of the movable pedal element; sending said sensor data to a microcontroller; processing the sensor data with the microcontroller to determine user actuated commands; determining an operational mode of the pedal using the microcontroller, the pedal being operable in at least a switching mode and a continuous modulation mode; generating output signals as a function of the user actuated commands, the output signals being generated as a function of the operational mode then in effect, the output signals being discrete triggers in the switching mode, and the output signals being continuously variable over a range in the continuous modulation mode; A method comprising:

19. generating a detection signal indicative of a presence of a user appendage on a rear of the movable pedal element; automatically switching an operating mode of the pedal between the switching mode and the continuous modulation mode as a function of the detection signal using the microcontroller; 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

20. switching an operating mode of the pedal between the switching mode and the continuous modulation mode as a function of manual actuation of a button using the microcontroller; 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

21. The method of claim 18 , wherein the movable pedal element is actuated by a user's foot.

22. Establishing a wireless connection between the microcontroller of the pedal and a first musical instrument; wirelessly transmitting the output signal; 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

23. providing a wired connection between the microcontroller and a second instrument via a connector port on the pedal; transmitting signals along both the wireless connection and the wired connection simultaneously and independently in the switching mode; 23. The method of claim 22, further comprising:

24. 1. A method of operating a pedal, comprising: generating sensor data indicative of a presence of a user appendage on a rear portion of a movable pedal element, the movable pedal element being actuatable by the user appendage; sending said sensor data to a microcontroller; processing the sensor data with the microcontroller to automatically determine an operational mode of the pedal, the pedal being operable in at least two different operational modes including a switching mode and a continuous modulation mode; generating an output signal, the output signal being generated as a function of the operating mode that is automatically determined by the microcontroller; A method comprising:

25. A base and a movable pedal element connected to the base and movable relative to the base; a microcontroller including at least one processor; a sensor unit operatively connected to the microcontroller and to the movable pedal element, the sensor unit further configured to send data to the microcontroller indicative of user actuation of the movable pedal element; a wireless transceiver operatively connected to the microcontroller and capable of wirelessly transmitting and receiving signals; Equipped with A pedal, the microcontroller programmed to generate the output signal during operation as a function of user input to the movable pedal element, at least in a switching mode in which the output signal signals activation when the movable pedal element is depressed to a trigger point.

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