Bridge system for a musical instrument

Abstract

A bridge for a musical instrument, such as a guitar, can house a pickup system and include a body with apertures to engage studs of the musical instrument. Each stud has a diameter, each aperture is longer and wider than the diameter of the studs, and a length of each aperture is greater than a width of each aperture. A set of fasteners for each aperture engage the studs, respectively. The fasteners can be adjusted to adjust a fit of the bridge relative to the studs. In addition, saddles extend from the body and have notches for the instrument strings, respectively.

Description

BRIDGE SYSTEM FOR A MUSICAL INSTRUMENTKelly LipscombLes Schatten

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 63 / 601 ,967, filed on November 22, 2023, and U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 63 / 640,063, filed on April 29, 2024, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUNDField of Disclosure

[0002] This disclosure generally pertains to stringed musical instruments and, in particular, to incorporating a sound gathering pickup system into a bridge for supporting the strings of a stringed musical instrument, such as an electric guitar or electric bass.Description of the Related Art

[0003] Electrical musical instruments with strings include a bridge having saddles to support the respective springs. A sensor pickup system is installed with the bridge to sense each string. The most common way to incorporate the sensor pickup system into the bridge requires each of the individual string saddles on the bridge to be fitted with a dedicated sensor. In addition, each saddle has a minimum of two conductor lead wires extending therefrom to the sensor pickup system. Although such solutions are workable, improvements in bridges for sensor pickup systems continue to be of interest.SUMMARY

[0004] Embodiments of a bridge for a musical instrument, such as a guitar, are disclosed. The bridge can house a pickup system and include a body with apertures to engage studs of the musical instrument. Each stud has a diameter, each aperture is longer and wider than the diameter of the studs,and a length of each aperture is greater than a width of each aperture. A set of fasteners for each aperture engage the studs, respectively. The fasteners can be adjusted to adjust a fit of the bridge relative to the studs. In addition, saddles extend from the body and have notches for the instrument strings, respectively.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] FIG. 1 is an exploded top view of an embodiment of a bridge for a stringed musical instrument that can be adjustably installed on the studs of the musical instrument.

[0006] FIG. 2A is an exploded isometric view of the bridge of FIG. 1.

[0007] FIG. 2B is an isometric view of the bridge of FIG. 1 .

[0008] FIG. 3 is an exploded front view of the bridge of FIG. 1 .

[0009] FIG. 4 is an exploded side view of the bridge of FIG. 1.

[0010] FIG. 5 is a top view of another embodiment of a bridge.

[0011] FIG. 6 is an exploded isometric view of the bridge of FIG. 5.

[0012] FIG. 7 is an exploded front view of the bridge of FIG. 5.

[0013] FIG. 8 is an exploded side view of the bridge of FIG. 5.

[0014] FIG. 9 is an exploded top view of an alternate embodiment of a bridge.

[0015] FIG. 10 is an exploded isometric view of the bridge of FIG. 9.

[0016] FIG. 11 is an exploded front view of the bridge of FIG. 9.

[0017] FIG. 12 is an exploded side view of the bridge of FIG. 9.

[0018] FIG. 13 is an exploded top view of another alternate embodiment of a bridge.

[0019] FIG. 14 is an exploded isometric view of the bridge of FIG. 13.

[0020] FIG. 15 is an exploded front view of the bridge of FIG. 13.

[0021] FIG. 16 is an exploded side view of the bridge of FIG. 13.

[0022] FIG. 17A is an isometric view of a fifth embodiment of a bridge.

[0023] FIG. 17B is an exploded isometric view of a portion of the bridge ofFIG. 17A.

[0024] FIGS. 18-21 are exploded isometric, top, exploded front and exploded side views, respectively of a sixth embodiment of a bridge.

[0025] FIG. 22 is a schematic drawing of musical instrument with a bridge and pickup.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] This disclosure provides a system of incorporating a pickup system into the bridge of an electric guitar or electric bass. The embodiments disclosed here can incorporate piezoelectric sensors or other sound gathering sensors to electrify the vibrations of the strings of the instrument through amplifier systems. This contrasts with conventional technology, which traditionally employ electromagnetic systems with magnets and coils to convert the vibration of the strings to electrical signals.

[0027] Embodiments of the pickups also operate differently than conventional pickups because the sensors can be incorporated into the bridge systems of the instruments over which the strings pass. Thus, the sensors are directly connected to the strings to electrify their vibrations. This design reduces or eliminates sound frequency loss and distortion known as signal feedback, increases output and produces a more realistic sound from the strings. In contrast, other pickups are separated from the strings and indirectly coupled to them, which requires the string vibrations to travel further. Such conventional solutions have signal loss and produce a different sound with less inherent output.

[0028] In addition to the inherent technology differences, the embodiments disclosed herein produce a different sound than conventional systems that is more of a true representation of the strings and guitar since the sensors are directly connected to the strings, the bridge and the body of the guitar. This design produces more tonality, balance and output than other pickups.

[0029] In some embodiments, the integrated bridge and pickup system has not just two but three pickups. This design allows for more functionality with the guitar by introducing new and unique sounds that were not possible before. Some embodiments have adjustable saddles on the bridge that allow for more precise intonation of the instrument being amplified. The various embodiments allow for a simplified pickup system to be installed within a bridge without having multiple pickup elements with multiple lead wires installed within multiple saddles.

[0030] FIGS. 1-4 depict one embodiment of a bridge 1 for a stringed musical instrument (not shown), such as a guitar or bass guitar. This version can be suitable for a Les Paul guitar, for example. The guitar can have a solid body or a semi-hollow body. The bridge 1 may be made of a structural material, such as a metal or alloy like aluminum, steel or a composite material. The bridge 1 may be cast, machined or extruded, depending on the structural requirements of the application. The bridge 1 may mount to the existing studs 2 already in place on the stringed instrument. The bridge 1 can fit many different sizes and spacings of bridge studs. The bridge 1 can have an interface for the studs 2 comprising apertures 9 that are wider and longer than the diameter of the studs 2. Sets of adjustable set screws 3 can be engaged around each aperture 9 to selectively position and secure the bridge 1 to the studs 2. The apertures 9 and the set screws 3 also allow for the adjustment of the overall scale length (see double-headed arrows) of the musical instrument.

[0031] The apertures 9 in the bridge 1 is adjustable relative to the studs 2 by adjusting the set screws 3 in the apertures 9. For example, to accommodate studs 2 with a larger diameter, the set screws 3 can be loosened to attach the bridge 1 to the guitar. Alternatively, the set screws 3 can be tightened to fit smaller diameter studs 2. This functionality makes the bridge 1 more versatile than traditional non-adjustable bridges, so the bridge 1 can fit different stud diameters and stud spacings. In another example, the set screws 3 at thefront and back of the apertures 9 (a total of two pair, in this version) can allow for fore and aft adjustment (e.g., scale length in a longitudinal direction). The set screws 3 on the left and right sides of the apertures 9 (a total of one pair, in this version) of the bridge 1 allow for the bridge 1 to be placed and secured into position (laterally) to accommodate almost any stud diameter.

[0032] In addition, the bridge 1 has saddles 4 with respective notches 5 (for the strings, not shown) that can be integrally formed with the bridge 1 from a single, monolithic material or object. The saddles 4 can vary in size and direction (see, e.g., FIGS. 5-7) because these variables allow adjustment of each string height (e.g., either higher or lower relative to the fretboard of the guitar) to achieve preferred string action. The string height can be selected to reduce or eliminate string buzz and still be easily fretted by the fingers of the guitarist. In addition, the variability can compensate for various angles of guitar necks and thicknesses of guitar strings that are used. The saddles 4 also can be adjustable lengthwise to allow the guitar to be properly intonated based on scale length of the specific guitar it is installed on, while also allowing for string compensation necessary to achieve desired intonation.

[0033] The saddles 4 can be located on the bridge 1 to allow the instrument to play in tune. There is a space 6 in the bridge 1 that extends from a front of the bridge 1 and continues rearward to include a volume underneath the saddles 4. The space 6 beneath the saddles 4 receives and accommodates a pickup system 7 (FIG. 2B), comprising piezoelectric, magnetic or other types of sensors. The heights of the saddles 4 can vary depending upon which string they support. For example, greater string height can be required towards the middle of the bridge 1 , as compared to the ends of the bridge 1. The saddles 4 may be moved or rotated 180 degrees to provide proper scale length for each string to compensate for string diameter or deflection.

[0034] There are slots 8 in this version, as shown between the saddles 4. The slots 8 are optional, depending on the type of pickup system installedbeneath the saddles 4. The slots 8 between the saddles 4 are optional since the pickup sensors can be located with shims beneath the saddles, respectively. The slots 8 can facilitate some movement to help amplify the signal of the strings. However, there can be a single item insert beneath the saddles 4 that incorporates the sensors without a need for the slots 8 for added amplification. In some examples, the underside of the saddles 4 can be either in contact with or be in proximity to a pickup system installed within the bridge 1 . Depending upon the type of pickup system installed, the saddles 4 may not need to be separated with slots 8 between them.

[0035] This embodiment shows recessed areas 10 (FIGS. 3 and 4) on an underside of the bridge 1 where the studs 2 make contact with the underside of the bridge 1 . The recessed areas 10 are optional. A hole 7 is located at the back of the space beneath the saddles 4 to accommodate a conductive cable (not shown) from an installed pickup system to exit the bridge 1.

[0036] FIGS. 5-8 depict another embodiment of a bridge 101 that may be made of a structural material, such as a metal or alloy like aluminum, steel or a composite material. This version also can be suitable for a Les Paul guitar, for example. The bridge 101 may be cast, machined or extruded, depending on the structural requirements of the application. The bridge 101 may mount to existing studs 102 already in place on a musical instrument (not shown), or may mount to studs 102 supplied with the bridge 101. In one example, the bridge 101 can have apertures 109 that are elliptical and set screws 99, like those described for FIGS. 1-4. This design allows the bridge 101 to flexibly adaptable to different sizes and spacings of studs.

[0037] In other examples, the bridge 101 can be unique to fit only one specific size of studs 102 and only one specific spacing of the studs 102. The interface between the bridge 101 and the studs 102 can comprise apertures 109 that are circular to secure the bridge 102 to the studs 102.

[0038] In addition, the bridge 101 can have saddles 104 that comprise individually separate items. The saddles 104 can vary in height and direction of orientation depending upon their placement on the bridge 101 . See other comments herein regarding this topic. The saddles 104 can be positioned on the bridge 101 in a manner to allow the instrument to play in tune. The saddles 104 can be secured to the bridge 101 with screws 103 that thread into receptacles 111 (FIGS. 6 and 7) on top of the bridge 101 .

[0039] There is a space 106 in the bridge 101 that extends from the front of the bridge 101 and continues to include a volume underneath the saddles 104. The space 106 beneath the saddles 104 accommodates a pickup system (not shown) comprising piezoelectric, magnetic or other types of sensors. As shown in FIG. 5, there are slots 108 between the saddles 104, in this example. The slots 108 may be omitted depending upon the type of pickup system installed beneath the saddles 104.

[0040] In one example, the bottom surface of the bridge 101 is flat. Other versions may include a recessed area (see recesses 10 in FIG. 3) on the underside of the bridge 101 where the studs 102 make contact with the underside of the bridge 101. A hole 107 is located at the back of the space beneath the saddles 104 to accommodate a conductive cable (not shown) from an installed pickup system to exit the bridge 101 .

[0041] FIGS. 9-12 depict still another embodiment of a bridge 201 that may be made of a structural material, such as a metal or alloy, like aluminum, steel or a composite material. This version can be suitable for a Stratocaster or Telecaster guitar, for example. The bridge 201 may be cast, or machined, or extruded depending on the structural requirements of the application. Rather than using studs as previously shown and described, the bridge 201 may mount to another existing structure already in place on the musical instrument. See base 510 (FIG. 17A) as an example of existing structure already in place on the musical instrument. The bridge 201 can mount to theexisting structure using fasteners such as screws 217 that are fitted with respective springs 212. The screws 217 can install in threaded holes 215 at the rear of the bridge 201 to adjustably position and secure the bridge 201 to the instrument.

[0042] The bridge 201 can include saddles 204 that can be integrally formed with the bridge 201 from a single piece of material. The saddles 204 can be positioned on the bridge 201 in a manner to allow the instrument to play in tune. See previous comments regarding these topics. The bridge 201 has a space 206 that extends from the front of the bridge 201 and continues to include a volume underneath the saddles 204. The space 206 beneath the saddles 204 accommodates a pickup system (not shown) comprising piezoelectric, magnetic or other types of sensors. There are slots 208 in this version, as shown between the saddles 204. The slots 208 may be omitted depending upon the type of pickup system installed beneath the saddles 204.

[0043] There are threaded holes 213 at the front of the bridge 201 that allow for the installation of fasteners, such as set screws 203. The set screws 203 allow the bridge 201 to be adjusted for height above the existing structure of the instrument that the bridge 201 is mounted to. See base 510 (FIG. 17A) as an example of existing structure already in place on the musical instrument.

[0044] FIGS. 13-16 depicts an alternative embodiment of a bridge 301 that comprises both a bridge lower section 321 and a bridge upper section 331 , each of which may be cast, machined or extruded depending on the structural requirements of the application. This version also can be suitable for a Stratocaster or Telecaster guitar, for example. The bridge 301 may mount to an existing structure that is already in place on the instrument. See base 510 (FIG. 17A) as an example of existing structure already in place on the musical instrument. The bridge 301 can mount to the existing structure using fasteners such as screws 317 that have respective springs 312. The screws 317 can install in threaded holes 315 (FIGS. 14 and 15) at the rear of thebridge lower section 321 to selectively position and secure the bridge 301 to the existing structure of the instrument.

[0045] The bridge 301 can have saddles 304 that are integrally formed with the bridge upper section 331 from a single piece of material. The saddles 304 can be positioned on the bridge 301 in a manner to allow the instrument to play in tune. There are tapped holes 325 at the rear of the bridge lower section 321 . The bridge upper section 331 has through holes that align with the tapped holes 325, respectively. Screws 326 are used to secure the bridge upper section 331 to engage the tapped holes 325 in the bridge lower section 321. When the bridge upper and lower sections 331 , 321 are secured together, a space is located between them. The space below the saddles 304 allows for the placement of a pickup system (not shown) comprising piezoelectric, magnetic or other types of sensors between the bridge upper and lower sections 331 , 321 . There are slots 308 between the saddles 304. The slots 308 may be omitted depending upon the type of pickup system installed beneath the saddles 304.

[0046] In addition, there are threaded holes 303 at the front of the bridge lower section 321 that allow for the installation of fasteners, such as set screws 313. The set screws 313 allow the bridge 301 to be adjusted for height above the existing structure of the instrument that the bridge 301 is mounted to. See base 510 (FIG. 17A) as an example of existing structure already in place on the musical instrument. Note that any of the descriptions and components used for any particular embodiment can be applied to any other embodiment, whether additive or subtractive in nature.

[0047] Common systems of incorporating a pickup into an electric instrument bridge requires each of the individual saddles to be fitted with a dedicated sensor. In addition, each saddle must have a minimum of two conductor lead wires exiting each saddle. In contrast, any of the embodiments in this disclosure can provide a bridge with saddles that do not have a dedicatedsensor. In addition, each saddle can have no conductor lead wires exiting the saddle.

[0048] Referring now to FIG. 17A and 17B, a bridge 501 provides a simplified means of incorporating a pickup system into the bridge of a string instrument, such as an electric guitar or electric bass. This version can be suitable for a Precision bass guitar, for example. It also provides for a simplified manufacturing process and will produce a less expensive product for the consumer. Like the other embodiments, bridge 501 provides a combined pickup enclosure and string instrument bridge assembly or system that can be fitted to the string instrument.

[0049] Examples of the bridge 501 may be formed of a structural material, such as aluminum or steel, or of a composite material. It may be cast, machined or extruded depending on the structural requirements of the application. The bridge 501 can have a generally rectangular space 506 extending along its length that allows for the fitment of a piezo or other sound or vibration gathering device within the upper and lower surfaces of the space 506.

[0050] Embodiments include saddles 504 on the upper portion of the bridge 501 to support the respective strings of the musical instrument. The quantity of the saddles 504 can vary depending upon the number of strings that a musical instrument has. A notch 505 in each saddle 504 keeps the instrument strings from moving out of place. There is an optional slot 508 between adjacent ones of the saddles 504.

[0051] Intonation screws 517 (e.g., two shown) are provided for setting the scale length and intonation of the bridge 501 relative to its mounting position on the musical instrument. A fastener or screw 503 attaches each intonation screw 517 to the bridge 501. In addition, a compression spring 512 is installed on each intonation screw 517 and is located between the bridge 501and a flange 513 of the base 510. The base 510 helps support the bridge 501 on the musical instrument. The base 510 and the flange 513 can be integrally formed.

[0052] In some versions, a barrel nut 509 is threaded on each intonation screw 517 on an opposite face of the flange 513 to facilitate movement of the bridge 501 and to secure its position. Holes 511 are provided in the flange 513 to anchor the strings of the musical instrument and to allow the strings to pass through the base 501 . Other holes 512 are provided in the base 501 for fasteners (e.g., screws) to secure the base 501 to the musical instrument. In addition, fasteners such as Allen set screws 514, thread into the bridge 501 and can allow for the adjustment of space between the bridge 501 and the base 510.

[0053] FIGS. 18-21 depict a sixth embodiment of a bridge 601 that may be made of a structural material, such as a metal or alloy like aluminum, steel or a composite material. This version can be suitable for an Archtop guitar, for example. The bridge 601 may be cast, machined or extruded, depending on the structural requirements of the application. The bridge 601 may mount to existing studs already in place on a musical instrument (not shown), or may mount to studs 602 supplied with the bridge 601 . An arch base 600 may be used to secure the bridge 601 thereto via the studs 602. In addition, thumbwheels 603 may be used to adjust the distance between the bridge 601 and the arch base 600. In one example, the bridge 601 can be unique to fit only one specific size of studs 602 and only one specific spacing of the studs 602. The interface between the bridge 601 and the studs 602 can comprise apertures 609 that are circular to secure the bridge 601 to the studs 102.

[0054] In addition, the bridge 601 can have saddles 604 that can be integrally formed with the bridge for single piece of material. Alternatively, the saddles 604 can comprise individually separate items. As with the other embodiments, the saddles 604 can have notches 605 and vary in height anddirection of orientation. The saddles 604 can be positioned on the bridge 601 in a manner to allow the instrument to play in tune. There is a space 606 in the bridge 601 that extends from the front of the bridge 601 and continues to include a volume underneath the saddles 604. The space 606 beneath the saddles 604 accommodates a pickup system (not shown) comprising piezoelectric or other types of sensors. As shown in FIG. 5, there are slots 608 between the saddles 604, in this example. The slots 608 may be omitted depending upon the type of pickup system installed beneath the saddles 604.

[0055] In one example, the bottom surface of the bridge 601 is flat. Other versions may include recessed areas 610 on the underside of the bridge 601 where the studs 602 make contact with the underside of the bridge 601 . A hole is located at the back of the space 606 beneath the saddles 104 to accommodate a conductive cable (not shown) from an installed pickup system to exit the bridge 601 .

[0056] Finally, FIG. 22 is a very schematic diagram of a musical instrument 1001 with strings 1003, a bridge 1005 and a pickup 1007 installed in the space in the bridge 1005. Any of the embodiments disclosed herein can be used in such a system.

[0057] Still other embodiments can include any of the following items.

[0058] FIGS. 1-4

[0059] 1 . A bridge for a musical instrument with strings, comprising:

[0060] a body having apertures configured to engage studs of the musical instrument, each stud comprises a diameter, each aperture is longer and wider than the diameter of the studs, and a length of each aperture is greater than a width of each aperture;

[0061] a set of fasteners for each aperture configured to engage the studs, respectively, wherein the fasteners can be adjusted to adjust a fit of the bridge relative to the studs; and

[0062] saddles extending from the body and comprising notches for the strings, respectively.

[0063] 2. The bridge wherein the body is solid, hollow or semi-hollow.

[0064] 3. The bridge wherein the fasteners comprise set screws.

[0065] 4. The bridge wherein the fasteners are both longitudinally and laterally adjustable to accommodate the studs.

[0066] 5. The bridge wherein the length of each aperture is at least100%, at least 200% or at least 300% longer than the diameter of the studs.

[0067] 6. The bridge wherein the width of each aperture is at least 10%, at least 25%, or at least 50% wider than the diameter of the studs.

[0068] 7. The bridge wherein the saddles are integrally formed with the body from a single, monolithic material.

[0069] 9. The bridge wherein the saddles are adjustable lengthwise relative to the body.

[0070] 10. The bridge wherein the saddles are a same size as each other and oriented in a same direction as each other.

[0071] 11. The bridge wherein the saddles differ in size and direction.

[0072] 12. The bridge wherein the saddles can be oriented forward or backwards.

[0073] 13. The bridge further comprising a space in the bridge between the body and the saddles, and the space is configured to accommodate a pickup system.

[0074] 14. The bridge further comprising a hole in the body adjacent to the space, wherein the hole is configured to accommodate a cable of the pickup system.

[0075] 15. The bridge further comprising slots between the saddles and between the body and laterally outermost ones of the saddles.

[0076] 16. The bridge wherein the body does not have slots between the saddles, and further comprising a single item insert beneath the saddles with respective sensors for the respectively saddles.

[0077] 17. The bridge further comprising recesses on an underside of the body configured to align with the studs, respectively.

[0078] FIGS. 5-8

[0079] 18. A bridge for a musical instrument with strings, comprising:

[0080] a body having apertures configured to engage studs of the musical instrument, the body also having a shelf with receptacles that are elevated above a lower portion of the body to define a space for a pickup; and

[0081] saddles releasably mounted to the recesses with fasteners, respectively, such that the saddles are configured to engage the strings, respectively, and the saddles vary in height and direction of orientation.

[0082] FIGS. 9-12

[0083] 19. A bridge for a musical instrument with strings, comprising:

[0084] a body that is monolithic and formed from a single piece of material, the body does not use studs to be attached to the musical instrument, and thebody is configured to mount to an existing structure already in place on the musical instrument with fasteners and springs;

[0085] saddles integrally formed with the body and extending from the body, and the saddles comprise notches for the strings, respectively.

[0086] 20. The bridge wherein the fasteners are installed in threaded holes at a rear of the body to adjustably position and secure the body to the musical instrument.

[0087] 21 . The bridge wherein the body comprises a space that extends from a front of the body and continues to include a volume beneath the saddles to accommodate a pickup system.

[0088] 22. The bridge wherein a front of the body comprises threaded holes with fasteners, respectively, configured to adjust a height of the bridge above the existing structure of the musical instrument.

[0089] FIGS. 13-16

[0090] 23. A bridge for a musical instrument with strings, comprising

[0091] a body that does not use studs to be attached to the musical instrument, the body is configured to mount to an existing structure already in place on a musical instrument with fasteners and springs, and the body comprises an upper body that is fastened to a lower body;

[0092] saddles integrally formed with the upper body and extending from the upper body, and the saddles comprise notches for the strings, respectively.

[0093] 24. The bridge wherein the fasteners are installed in threaded holes at a rear of the body to adjustably position and secure the body to the musical instrument.

[0094] 25. The bridge further comprising a space located between the upper and lower bodies to accommodate a pickup system.

[0095] 26. The bridge wherein a front of the lower body comprises threaded holes with fasteners, respectively, configured to adjust a height of the bridge above the existing structure of the musical instrument.

[0096] FIG. 17

[0097] 27. A device for a musical instrument with strings, comprising:

[0098] a bridge configured to be coupled to an existing structure on the musical instrument, the bridge having a lower portion and saddles extending from an upper portion to define a space that is configured to incorporate a pickup system therein, and the saddles are configured to support the strings, respectively;

[0099] intonation screws coupled to the bridge for setting a scale length and intonation of the bridge; and

[0100] compression springs coupled to the intonation screws, respectively, and the compression springs are located adjacent to the bridge.

[0101] 28. The device further comprising barrel nuts threaded on the intonation screws, respectively, to facilitate movement of the bridge.

[0102] 29. The device wherein mounting the intonation screws to the bridge allows for the articulation of the intonation screws in a plane to enable fitting of the bridge to an existing structure on the instrument.

[0103] The existing structure of the musical instrument can be a base having a flange, and the base is mounted to the musical instrument. There can be holes in the flange of the base to anchor the strings of the musical instrument and to allow the strings to pass through the base.

[0104] FIGS. 18-21

[0105] 30. A device for a musical instrument with strings, comprising:

[0106] an arch base configured to be mounted to the musical instrument, studs extending from the arch base, and thumb wheels mounted to the studs, respectively, to adjust a distance between the bridge and the arch base; and

[0107] a bridge mounted to the studs of the arch base, the bridge comprises saddles that are be integrally formed with the bridge from a single piece of material, a space is defined in the bridge beneath the saddles to accommodate a pickup system, and a hole is located at a back of the space beneath the saddles to accommodate a conductive cable from the pickup system.

[0108] The terminology used herein describes example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0109] When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more ofthe associated listed items.

[0110] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

[0111] Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” “top”, “bottom,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element’s or feature’s relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptions used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0112] This written description uses examples to disclose the embodiments, including the best mode, and also to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention. The patentable scope is defined by the claims, and can include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languagesof the claims.

[0113] In the foregoing specification, the concepts have been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, one of ordinary skill in the art appreciates that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of invention.

[0114] It can be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words and phrases used throughout this patent document. The term “communicate,” as well as derivatives thereof, encompasses both direct and indirect communication. The terms “include” and “comprise,” as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without limitation. The term “or” is inclusive, meaning and / or. The phrase “associated with,” as well as derivatives thereof, can mean to include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have, have a property of, have a relationship to or with, or the like. The phrase “at least one of,” when used with a list of items, means that different combinations of one or more of the listed items can be used, and only one item in the list can be needed. For example, “at least one of: A, B, and C” includes any of the following combinations: A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, and A and B and C.

[0115] Moreover, various functions described herein can be implemented or supported by one or more computer programs, each of which is formed from computer readable program code and embodied in a computer readable medium. The terms “application” and “program” refer to one or more computer programs, software components, sets of instructions, procedures, functions, objects, classes, instances, related data, or a portion thereof adapted for implementation in a suitable computer readable program code. The phrase “computer readable program code” includes any type of computer code, including source code, object code, and executable code. The phrase“computer readable medium” includes any type of medium capable of being accessed by a computer, such as read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), a hard disk drive, a compact disc (CD), a digital video disc (DVD), solid state drive (SSD), or any other type of memory. A “non-transitory” computer readable medium excludes wired, wireless, optical, or other communication links that transport transitory electrical or other signals. A non- transitory computer readable medium includes media where data can be permanently stored and media where data can be stored and later overwritten, such as a rewritable optical disc or an erasable memory device.

[0116] Also, the use of “a” or “an” is employed to describe elements and components described herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. This description should be read to include one or at least one and the singular also includes the plural unless it states otherwise.

[0117] The description in the present application should not be read as implying that any particular element, step, or function is an essential or critical element that must be included in the claim scope. The scope of patented subject matter is defined only by the allowed claims. Moreover, none of the claims invokes 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) with respect to any of the appended claims or claim elements unless the exact words “means for” or “step for” are explicitly used in the particular claim, followed by a participle phrase identifying a function.

[0118] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that can cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, sacrosanct or an essential feature of any or all the claims.

[0119] After reading the specification, skilled artisans will appreciate that certain features which are, for clarity, described herein in the context of separate embodiments, can also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described inthe context of a single embodiment, can also be provided separately or in any subcombination. Further, references to values stated in ranges include each and every value within that range.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A bridge for a musical instrument with strings, comprising: a body having apertures configured to engage studs of the musical instrument, each stud comprises a diameter, each aperture is longer and wider than the diameter of the studs, and a length of each aperture is greater than a width of each aperture; a set of fasteners for each aperture configured to engage the studs, respectively, wherein the fasteners can be adjusted to adjust a fit of the bridge relative to the studs; and saddles extending from the body and comprising notches for the strings, respectively.

2. The bridge of claim 1 , wherein the fasteners are both longitudinally and laterally adjustable to accommodate the studs.

3. The bridge of claim 1 , wherein the length of each aperture is at least 100% longer than the diameter of the studs.

4. The bridge of claim 1 , wherein the width of each aperture is at least 10% wider than the diameter of the studs.

5. The bridge of claim 1 , wherein the saddles are integrally formed with the body from a single, monolithic material.

6. The bridge of claim 1 , wherein the saddles are adjustable lengthwise relative to the body.

7. The bridge of claim 1 , wherein the saddles are a same size as each other and oriented in a same direction as each other.

8. The bridge of claim 1 , wherein the saddles differ in size and direction.

9. The bridge of claim 1 , wherein the saddles can be oriented forward or backwards relative to the bridge.

10. The bridge of claim 1 , further comprising: a space in the bridge between the body and the saddles, and the space is configured to accommodate a pickup system; and a hole in the body adjacent to the space, wherein the hole is configured to accommodate a cable of the pickup system.11 . The bridge of claim 1 , further comprising slots between the saddles and between the body and laterally outermost ones of the saddles.

12. The bridge of claim 1 , wherein the body does not have slots between the saddles, and further comprising a single item insert beneath the saddles with respective sensors for the respectively saddles.

13. The bridge of claim 1 , further comprising recesses on an underside of the body configured to align with the studs, respectively.

14. A bridge for a musical instrument with strings, comprising: a body that does not use studs to be attached to the musical instrument, the body is configured to mount to an existing structure already in place on a musical instrument with fasteners and springs, and the body comprises an upper body that is fastened to a lower body; saddles integrally formed with the upper body and extending from the upper body, and the saddles comprise notches for the strings, respectively.

15. The bridge of claim 14, wherein the fasteners are installed in threaded holes at a rear of the body to adjustably position and secure the body to the musical instrument.

16. The bridge of claim 14, further comprising a space located between the upper and lower bodies to accommodate a pickup system.

17. The bridge of claim 14, wherein a front of the lower body comprises threaded holes with fasteners, respectively, configured to adjust a height of the bridge above the existing structure of the musical instrument.

18. A device for a musical instrument with strings, comprising: a bridge configured to be coupled to an existing structure on the musical instrument, the bridge having a lower portion and saddles extending from an upper portion to define a space that is configured to incorporate a pickup system therein, and the saddles are configured to support the strings, respectively; intonation screws coupled to the bridge for setting a scale length and intonation of the bridge; and compression springs coupled to the intonation screws, respectively, and the compression springs are located adjacent to the bridge.

19. The device of claim 18, further comprising barrel nuts threaded on the intonation screws, respectively, to facilitate movement of the bridge.

20. The device of claim 18, wherein mounting the intonation screws to the bridge allows for the articulation of the intonation screws in a plane to enable fitting of the bridge to an existing structure on the instrument.

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