Device for changing the sound of a stringed musical instrument

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for changing the sound of a stringed musical instrument (1, 1', 1''). The device comprises a bridge (10, 10', 10'') and a transmission element (20, 20', 20'') arranged on the bridge (10, 10', 10''), wherein the bridge (10, 10', 10'') can be arranged on a surface of a cover (61) of the stringed musical instrument via a first contact surface (21, 21', 21'') of the transmission element (20, 20', 20'') in order to establish a vibration-transmitting connection between the bridge (10, 10', 10'') and a body (60) of the stringed musical instrument via the first contact surface (21, 21', 21''). The present invention also relates to a corresponding method.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Device for changing the sound of a stringed musical instrument

[0003] The invention relates to a device for changing the sound of a stringed musical instrument and to a method for changing the sound of a stringed musical instrument using such a device.

[0004] An important component of stringed musical instruments are those parts of the instrument that transfer the energy of the vibrations of taut strings, which have been stimulated to vibrate, to the body of the instrument. The bridge, also called the bridge saddle, is a key component in this process. Depending on the instrument, there are different designs and names. The bridge limits the freely vibrating string length (scale) at one end of the instrument, and a saddle at the other.

[0005] Especially with electric guitars, the English term “Bridge” is often used for the bridge in German-speaking countries, or the word is Germanized as “Brücke”.

[0006] The bridge is mounted on a sound-producing resonator. This usually refers to the top of the body. Depending on the position and shape of the bridge, as well as the architecture of the top and the sound box, a different sound is produced. The bridge is often mounted on wooden structures, such as the body of a guitar, violin, or viola da gamba. However, there are other possibilities, such as the banjo. There, the bridge rests on a taut skin, which is also caused to vibrate by the vibration of the strings.

[0007] On acoustic instruments, the bridge is often the only part that transmits sound and limits the scale length, alongside the saddle. However, on electric guitars in particular, the sound is influenced by the interaction of many smaller, usually steel components. The sound is picked up by induction pickups, with the sound being determined by a combination of the vibrations transmitted by the bridge and string vibrations, which are directly converted into an electrical voltage. The interaction of body vibration and the vibration picked up by the saddle determines, among other things, the sustain and basic tone of the electric guitar. The bridge also works in the opposite direction. It transmits the guitar's vibrations back to the strings, which in turn affects the string vibrations.Each part of a guitar can therefore contribute a few frequencies more or less to the overall vibration pattern of the instrument. An electric guitar bridge usually consists of a metal base on which string saddles are arranged. Each saddle acts as a bridge for one string. Accordingly, a bridge usually has a number of saddles corresponding to the number of strings. A further distinction is made between vibrato systems, in which the base plate remains movable despite being connected to the body, and fixed bridges. A fixed bridge is firmly attached to the body and cannot be moved in any way. Other models have a different type of fixed bridge. These are connected to the body by screws, usually two screws, on which the bridge (as a floating bridge) rests loosely and is held in position only by the pressure of the strings acting on the saddles.The screws can also be used to adjust the height relative to the body surface to configure the string action. While the strings are held in place at the top by the tuners, they are held in place just behind the bridge by the tailpiece, which is also held in place by the string tension in its anchoring screws. This tailpiece is usually called a stop tailpiece or stopbar because it is not located on the back rib, but rather "stops" the strings beforehand. However, the tailpiece can also be separate from the bridge and positioned on the body at a certain distance behind the bridge.

[0008] The systems presented are not exhaustive and serve to illustrate the basic structure and functioning of bridges.

[0009] The bridge's conductance, as well as its natural resonance, influences the overall sound of a stringed instrument. However, this is predetermined by the manufacturer, and unavoidable influences give the sound a specific character. This is particularly unpredictable and therefore uncontrollable.

[0010] The invention is based on the object of providing a device for modifying the sound of a stringed musical instrument that at least partially overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art. These objects are achieved entirely or at least partially by a device for modifying the sound of a stringed musical instrument having the features of the independent claim. Further preferred embodiments of the invention emerge from the remaining features recited in the subclaims.

[0011] A first aspect of the present disclosure relates to a device for modifying the sound of a stringed musical instrument. The device comprises a bridge and a transmission element arranged on the bridge. The bridge can be arranged on a surface of a top of the stringed musical instrument via a first contact surface of the transmission element in order to establish a vibration-transmitting connection between the bridge and a body of the stringed musical instrument via the first contact surface.

[0012] The stringed musical instrument preferably includes an electric guitar. An electric guitar is a highly complex construction in which all components, including the wood used, the electronic components, and the finish, must be perfectly matched to ensure perfect vibrational behavior. One influencing factor is the bridge, which consists primarily of metallic components. An ideal bridge would be a perfect, neutral transmitter of vibrations, transferring energy without absorbing energy itself and without adding natural resonances. In other words, the conductance of the bridge should be high. However, this is technically and practically impossible and often undesirable. Energy loss is almost unavoidable, just as it is impossible to prevent the natural resonance of the bridge from affecting the overall sound of the guitar.Accordingly, it is often necessary or desired to later musically influence a production-related sound.

[0013] The top is a component of a stringed musical instrument. The top is a separately manufactured upper part of the body, which rests on the sides or, in the case of instruments with a solid body, lies flat against the body and is glued over its entire surface. On instruments with a strongly arched back instead of the sides, the top rests directly on the highly arched edges of the body back.

[0014] Various forms of the bridge and types of connection to the body of the stringed musical instrument are known to the person skilled in the art and have already been described above, the following description referring to some of the possible bridges for the device according to the invention, the list being by no means exhaustive.

[0015] A large, thin base plate on a Telecaster bridge, for example, reflects a large portion of the energy on its way into the body, much like a mirror reflects light. On its way back out of the body, it dissipates a lot of energy because it resonates almost as much as it conducts. This results in a strong attack and rather poor sustain.

[0016] A vibrato system, on the other hand, is a solid metal construction consisting of many individual parts, including its springs and screws. The system is a better conductor than the large, thin base plate of the Telecaster bridge, but produces a high natural resonance. Because the vibrato system generally has little contact with the top surface, it transmits a harmonic spectrum very well, whereas this is not the case with the transmission of a fundamental range. The result is a sound in which the harmonics are transmitted just as strongly as the fundamentals.

[0017] Another system is a Tune-o-matic bridge (also abbreviated TOM), which is a fixed or floating bridge design for electric guitars. These bridges consist of an elongated saddle that accommodates six saddles and the corresponding screws for adjusting the string length (intonation). Some bridges also include a saddle retainer wire that holds all the saddles and screws in place. The bridge is attached to the body of the guitar via two threaded posts that are either screwed directly into the top of the guitar or into threaded anchors that are pressed into the body. To adjust the string height (action), the Tune-O-Matic bridge sits on two threaded wheels that are screwed onto the threaded posts. Some models have integrated wheel posts that screw into anchors.Each saddle includes a small groove that matches the string gauge and shape, preventing the string from slipping off the saddle. When fully assembled, each string sits astride a saddle, marking the end of the string's vibrating length from the tailpiece to the saddle. After passing over the saddle, the string makes a slight downward angle toward a tailpiece, the vibrato, or—on hollow-body guitars—the trapeze tailpiece. Regardless of how the strings are held, the fact that the string forms a downward angle after the saddle results in a "break angle." The break angle prevents the string from jumping out of the groove of the saddle, as the angle causes the string to sit firmly over the saddle. The break angle also contributes to the guitar's sustain and, on acoustic guitars, to its volume.The fracture angle also occurs above the saddle when the headstock tilts backwards.

[0018] Preferably, the surface of the top faces the bridge or the strings stretched on the stringed musical instrument.

[0019] The transmission element influences the sound of the corresponding stringed instrument, as it represents an additional component that essentially complements the structural components. When the bridge is positioned on the body, its first contact surface directly contacts the surface of the top of the body. This transmits vibrations from the strings and bridge to the body through the transmission element. In other words, the first contact surface rests on the surface of the top of the body, creating a vibration-transmitting connection between the bridge and the body.

[0020] In a first preferred embodiment of the invention, the transmission element is height-adjustable. In the context of the present invention, height adjustment is understood to mean an adjustment of one dimension of the transmission element. This can be achieved by changing the shape or position of the transmission element arranged on the bridge, whereby the transmission element itself has different dimensions. This ensures that different distances between the bridge and the surface of the top are compensated for in the event of manufacturing tolerances and deviations in the bridge or transmission element, as well as due to the arrangement of the bridge on the stringed musical instrument. The transmission element thus ensures the arrangement of the bridge over the first contact surface of the transmission element on the surface of the top of the stringed musical instrument, thus establishing the vibration-transmitting connection.Accordingly, when the bridge is arranged on the surface of the ceiling and the distances between the bridge and the outer surface are variable, the vibration-transmitting connection is always established via the first contact surface.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment of the first preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the bridge is height-adjustable with respect to the surface of the top of the body, wherein the transmission element is designed to maintain the arrangement via the first contact surface of the transmission element on the surface of the top of the stringed musical instrument and the contacting of the first contact surface with the surface when the bridge is arranged on the surface of the top and the height of the bridge is adjusted.Preferably, the bridge further comprises support elements for connecting the bridge to the body, openings arranged at lateral end regions of the bridge, each opening being designed to receive one of the support elements, and holders for receiving the bridge, which holders are designed to vary a distance between the bridge and the body, wherein the transmission element is designed to maintain the vibration-transmitting connection between the bridge and the body and the arrangement and contacting of the first contact surface when the bridge is arranged on the surface of the ceiling and the distances between the bridge and the body are varied.In other words, the bridge is designed to be height-adjustable, and the transmission element is designed to always maintain the vibration-transmitting connection and maintain contact between the first contact surface and the surface when the bridge is adjusted in height—i.e., when the distance between the bridge and the surface of the top changes. The support elements preferably comprise threaded posts or studs, which allow for easy connection to the bridge using openings arranged in the end regions. The support elements can then be screwed to the body of the stringed musical instrument, either directly into the solid body of the guitar or into sleeves or threaded anchors that are pressed into the body. The holders preferably comprise knurled nuts, knurled screws, or threaded wheels. These preferably comprise an opening through which they can each be connected to one of the support elements.Thus, after connection to the support elements, they form a support surface on which an underside of the bridge rests when the openings in the bridge accommodate the support elements. This positively connects the bridge to the support elements by preventing movement towards the surface of the ceiling. Preferably, the support elements comprise an external thread that corresponds to a thread on the brackets. This creates a connection between the support element and the bracket that is also adjustable and thus enables the height of the bridge to be adjusted. The transmission element preferably comprises a geometric shape or a changeable structure that maintains a vibration-transmitting connection between the bridge and the body and that ensures contact between the first contact surface and the outer surface.

[0022] In a further preferred embodiment of the first preferred embodiment of the invention, the device further comprises a first adjusting element, which is connected to the transmission element and is designed to vary the height of the transmission element. This ensures the arrangement of the bridge over the first contact surface of the transmission element on the surface of the top of the stringed musical instrument, so that the vibration-transmitting connection can be established and maintained. Accordingly, with the bridge arranged on the surface of the top and with variable distances between the bridge and the outer surface, the vibration-transmitting connection is always established via the first contact surface.The first adjusting element preferably acts on the transmission element, so that when the bridge is adjusted in height, the transmission element is acted upon accordingly by the first adjusting element, enabling the maintenance of the vibration-transmitting connection and the contacting of the first contact surface with the surface. Preferably, the device comprises a tailpiece separate from the bridge. This provides a structurally advantageous solution for integrating a first adjusting element, by which the maintenance of the vibration-transmitting connection and the contacting of the first contact surface with the surface can be controlled.The available space of the bridge is already heavily stressed by other structural components, so that a complex and potentially disadvantageous arrangement in the bridge is avoided by arranging the tailpiece separately, to which the first adjusting element is connected.

[0023] According to a variant of the preferred embodiment of the first preferred embodiment of the invention, the first adjusting element is detachably mounted in a recess of a tailpiece separate from the bridge and, in the released state, with the bridge arranged on the surface of the top and variable distances between the bridge and the surface of the top, is movable along the recess to vary the height of the transmission element. The tailpiece therefore preferably comprises a recess, which is preferably arranged between adjacent strings. The first adjusting element is detachably mounted in the recess of the tailpiece and, in the released state, with the bridge arranged on the surface of the top and variable distances between the bridge and the surface of the top, is displaceable along the recess to establish and maintain the vibration-transmitting connection and the contact of the first contact surface with the surface.Accordingly, it performs a translational movement along a string direction, which is converted into a force acting on the transmission element, by which the transmission element is adapted to the variable distances.

[0024] Preferably, the first adjusting element comprises a screw, wherein the screw in the

[0025] Recess of the tailpiece is mounted and one end of the screw is connected to the transmission element. For this purpose, the recess preferably comprises an internal thread which corresponds to an external thread of the screw, so that a connection is established between the recess and the screw. This enables effective mounting, wherein a rotational movement of the screw achieves a translational movement of the screw within the recess along a string direction. The string direction describes the alignment of strings stretched between the bridge or tailpiece and the saddle of the stringed musical instrument. Preferably, the screw comprises a head which has a larger diameter than the recess and which is arranged on a first side of the recess. The first side of the recess is the side facing away from the stretched strings.This secures the screw in a positive fit, as its movement towards the head of the stringed musical instrument is limited as soon as the head of the screw contacts the tailpiece because the head does not fit through the recess. Furthermore, the screw is preferably releasably mounted by a further positive fit connection on a second side of the recess. The second side of the recess is the side facing the taut strings. This further positive fit connection preferably comprises two lock nuts arranged on the second side of the recess and by an internal thread on a shank of the screw that matches the external thread of the screw. The lock nut, also known as a counter nut, is a locking method that uses two separate nuts one above the other. This limits the movement of the screw towards the head of the stringed musical instrument.If, for example, the screw is rotated axially against the head of the stringed musical instrument after previously releasing the other positive connection, for example by loosening the locknuts, it is possible to restore the positive connection after reaching a desired position that affects the transmission element and thus the vibration-transmitting connection. To do this, the locknuts are repositioned so that they contact the tailpiece and further movement of the screw is prevented because the locknuts do not fit through the recess. This combination of head and locknut therefore enables compressive and tensile loading.The transmission element can be arranged, as desired, depending on a distance between the bridge and the body in such a way that the vibration-transmitting connection and the contacting of the first contact surface with the surface is maintained.

[0026] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the transmission element has a second contact surface, preferably comprising an inclined plane, which, when the bridge is arranged on the surface of the ceiling, contacts an outer surface of the bridge. Even an indirect connection of the transmission element with the bridge, for example when the transmission element contacts screws or other components of the bridge, results in improved and modified vibration transmission and thus sound production. By directly contacting another surface of the transmission element with an outer surface of the bridge, the vibrations of the bridge are transmitted with even greater intensity, thereby achieving a further change in sound. Preferably, the second contact surface comprises an inclined plane. In mechanics, an inclined plane or also an oblique or inclined plane is a flat surface that is inclined to the horizontal.In other words, the transmission element then comprises different dimensions between the first and second contact surfaces, which are arranged opposite one another because they run at an angle to one another. This makes it possible to achieve compensation by variably arranging the transmission element between the bridge and the surface of the ceiling when the height of the bridge, i.e. the distance between the bridge and the surface of the ceiling, is changed. If the distance is reduced, for example, the transmission element is positioned such that it contacts the bridge and the surface at a position that now has a smaller dimension than in an initial or previous position. Conversely, if the distance is increased, the transmission element is arranged so that a point with a larger dimension between the first and second contact surfaces now contacts the bridge and the surface.

[0027] Particularly preferably, the transmission element has a wedge shape. A wedge is a body in which two side surfaces converge at an acute angle. Consequently, the thickness between the side surfaces changes, making it a particularly simple way to maintain the connection even with changing distances.

[0028] In a second preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the bridge further comprises an opening passing through the bridge, wherein the passing through opening is designed to receive the transmission element. Furthermore, the bridge comprises a second actuating element arranged in the passing through opening and detachably connected to the bridge, which, in the released state, is movable along the passing through opening in order to contact a second contact surface of the transmission element depending on a relative position of the second actuating element in the passing through opening. In other words, the transmission element has a second contact surface which, when the bridge is arranged on the surface of the ceiling, contacts the outer surface of the second actuating element.The second actuating element arranged in the through-opening thus acts on the transmission element, since the outer surface of the second actuating element contacts the second contact surface of the transmission element, wherein the position of the second actuating element within the through-opening is adjusted depending on a distance between the bridge and the surface of the ceiling. In other words, the second actuating element serves to connect the transmission element to the bridge and is designed to maintain the vibration-transmitting connection and the contact of the first contact surface with the surface. The second actuating element is detachably mounted within the through-opening and, in the released state, can be moved along it. The mounting is preferably positively and / or non-positively.Preferably, the opening is circular and comprises an internal thread, and the second adjusting element comprises a matching external thread. Preferably, the opening comprises a first section and a second section, wherein a cross-sectional area of ​​the first section is smaller than a cross-sectional area of ​​the second section. Preferably, the first section is circular and comprises an internal thread, and the second adjusting element comprises a matching external thread. This creates a connection between the first section and the second adjusting element. By rotating the second adjusting element by means of a drive of the second adjusting element, it is thereby arranged so as to be movable along the first section. Preferably, the second adjusting element comprises a pin or a grub screw.This design makes it possible to effectively utilize the limited installation space, even in bridges that include a tailpiece integrated into the bridge, and to provide an adjusting element with which the vibration-transmitting connection and the contact of the first contact surface with the surface can be maintained even with changing distances between the top and the bridge. The transmission element and the second section preferably also have a circular cross-section. Accordingly, the transmission element is preferably cylindrical, with the first contact surface and the second contact surface representing the opposing cylinder bases. Furthermore, the cross-section of the transmission element is preferably larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first section.As a result, when the second adjusting element is moved completely along the second section towards the top, the transmission element contacts an inner surface of the second section and thereby limits a minimum distance between the top and bridge. Furthermore, this also ensures that there is always a connection between the transmission element and bridge and between the transmission element and the outer surface of the top, as well as a minimum tension, whereby the sound-modifying properties are maintained in every situation. Particularly preferably, a gap is provided between the transmission element and a surface of the second section radially surrounding it. In other words, the diameter of the cylindrical transmission element is smaller than the diameter of the circular second section such that a gap is formed. Tops or their surfaces often have a curvature.Through the gap, the transmission element is arranged diagonally within the second section, whereby the first contact surface then adapts to the local curvature of the ceiling, so that the contacting surface is increased.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment of the second preferred embodiment of the invention, the device comprises a plurality of string saddles, and the through-opening is arranged between adjacent string saddles. In particular, adjustable string saddles for varying the string length also require installation space due to their width, as they slide over rail-like bridges for adjustment, for example. Preferably, the width of the string saddles is shorter than the distance between the outer edges of the bridges that form the support surface for this string saddle. The same applies to at least one further string saddle and the bridges corresponding to this further string saddle. This creates a free area between these two adjacent string saddles, within which the through-opening is then arranged.Thus, despite limited installation space, a compact arrangement of the penetrating opening in conjunction with the second actuating element and the transmission element is provided.

[0030] The bridge preferably further comprises holding elements designed to exert a holding force on the bridge in the direction of the body. Preferably, lateral end regions of the bridge are each releasably mounted between one of the above-described holders and a holding element. The mounting is preferably achieved by means of a positive and / or non-positive connection. By means of the device according to the invention and in particular the transmission element, in addition to the string pressure acting on the bridge and preventing it from moving away from the top, a counterpressure acting against this string pressure is now also exerted. The holding elements are provided to prevent this from causing the bridge to move or become loose automatically. These are preferably connected to the support elements in a positive and / or non-positive manner and thus fix the bridge.

[0031] Particularly preferably, the bridge further comprises steps arranged at each of the lateral end regions. In other words, the thickness of the bridge is tapered there and the bridge has a stepped profile there, so that the thickness is thinner there than in the other regions of the bridge. These steps create or enlarge an exposed region of the lateral end regions, within which the holding elements can then be arranged. Preferably, the holding elements comprise a circular recess with an inner diameter and an internal thread corresponding to an external thread of the support elements described above, wherein the holders described above also have a circular recess for receiving the support elements with an internal thread corresponding to the external thread of the support elements, and wherein each of the steps is arranged between a holding element and a holder.This represents a particularly advantageous form of positive connection between the holder and support element, as well as the holding element and support element, which are both detachable, allowing the height of the bridge to be adjusted. In combination with the shoulder, this allows the use of standard support elements such as threaded or stud bolts, which have the standardized dimensions and lengths for the respective bridge and, in particular, do not protrude far from the instrument, since the fixing element is located within the area exposed by the shoulder.

[0032] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the transmission element comprises a beam-shaped element which is mounted in a recess in the bridge corresponding to the beam-shaped element. In other words, the transmission element is designed as a beam element or the transmission element comprises a cuboid. The bridge comprises a recess whose shape corresponds to the beam-shaped element in such a way that the beam-shaped element can be arranged in the recess. The guidance of the beam-shaped element preferably takes place in a horizontal and / or vertical direction. The recess is preferably dimensioned such that the beam-shaped element can be completely received by the recess. The recess extends, for example, over a partial area of ​​the bridge or completely over the bridge.In other words, the bridge has a slot-shaped recess whose shape and orientation corresponds to the beam-shaped element. Preferably, the beam-shaped element has different edge lengths. The edge length with the greatest length has a length such that when the beam-shaped element is mounted in the recess, the beam-shaped element is arranged below a plurality of string saddles. In other words, the beam-shaped element is then arranged in the same orientation as the bridge. Accordingly, a transmission element is provided that enables the transmission of vibrations from multiple sources of vibration. In other words, the vibration of each of the strings is transmitted to the bridge via multiple strings on the corresponding string saddles.Since the bar-shaped element is arranged substantially transversely to the direction of the strings with respect to the direction of its greatest length, it enables improved vibration transmission for multiple pairs of strings and saddles. Preferably, the bar-shaped element can be fixedly arranged in the recess, wherein the bar-shaped element can be guided in the recess in a released state and is fixed in the recess in an unreleased state. Preferably, the device further comprises at least one opening penetrating the bridge and at least one second adjusting element arranged in the at least one penetrating opening and detachably connected to the bridge, which, in the released state, is movable along the penetrating opening in order to contact a second contact surface of the bar-shaped element depending on a relative position of the second adjusting element in the penetrating opening.Preferably, the second adjusting element comprises a pin or a grub screw, with the through-hole having a thread corresponding to the thread of the grub screw. This represents a particularly suitable option for securing the bar-shaped element. This allows for easy adjustment of the bar-shaped element. It can be fixed in different positions, thus providing greater possibilities for sound variation.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the transmission element has at least one slot-shaped recess to increase the elasticity of the transmission element. In other words, the transmission element has an elongated recess or groove. This increases the flexibility and elasticity of the transmission element, which can thus better adapt to the top of the stringed musical instrument. The transmission element preferably has a plurality of slot-shaped recesses, which are preferably arranged equidistantly along the transmission element. The slot-shaped recess preferably has a cross-section suitable for increasing flexibility. Particularly preferably, the cross-section is rectangular, trapezoidal, T-shaped, hemispherical, or triangular, or has other suitable geometries. This ensures the stability of the transmission element despite increased flexibility.The transmission element preferably has the at least one slot-shaped recess on a side facing the surface of the top of the stringed musical instrument and / or on a side facing the bridge. In other words, in the former case, a recess is provided on the side of the first contact surface of the transmission element, and in the latter case, on the side of the second contact surface. As a result, the transmission element has corresponding material-free regions there. This results in greater elasticity of the transmission element or in greater elasticity of regions of the transmission element adjacent to the material-free regions. These regions, which still contain material, have increased elasticity and can therefore adapt better to the top of the stringed instrument.Since the top of the stringed instrument can have curves and similar shapes, the slot-shaped recess further ensures contact suitable for vibration transmission. This embodiment is particularly preferably combined with the transmission element, which comprises a bar-shaped element. Accordingly, the bar-shaped element then has at least one slot-shaped recess. If the slot-shaped recess runs in the direction of the strings, i.e. parallel to the strings, a plurality of slot-shaped recesses are preferably provided, which are arranged in a direction transverse to the direction of the strings, thereby enabling improved adaptation of the transmission element to the top. Alternatively, the slot-shaped recess runs perpendicular to the direction of the strings, i.e. along the bar-shaped element.

[0034] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the transmission element comprises a wood, preferably a tonewood. Wood has its own sound, determined by its specific properties. This natural frequency influences the vibrations of the string and the overtones it can generate. The mixture of the various frequency elements forms the individuality, the sound character, of the respective instrument. Woods with high natural frequencies produce a brighter sound than woods with lower natural frequencies. Accordingly, the wood, in addition to the metallic structural components of the bridge, modifies the sound in a suitable manner.

[0035] The transmission element preferably comprises a plurality of layers of different wood species. In other words, the transmission element has several layers arranged one above the other, with the layers differing in their wood species. The transmission element preferably comprises two, and particularly preferably three, layers. This further modifies the sound and allows it to be individually tailored to individual preferences and needs.

[0036] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a wood grain of the transmission element essentially corresponds to a wood grain of the body when the bridge is arranged on the stringed musical instrument. In the context of the present invention, "essential" means that an angle between the wood grain of the transmission element and the wood grain of the body does not exceed 15°, preferably 10°, and particularly preferably 5°. It should be noted that the wood grain can vary slightly within each element, so that in this case a statistical average must be used for the orientation of the corresponding grain. Preferably, the transmission element comprises a metal, preferably brass, and / or a plastic. These materials also exert a characteristic influence on the sound, so that the user can also take their corresponding perception into account here.

[0037] Preferably, an embodiment of the invention comprises a plurality of transmission elements and actuating elements, as well as further corresponding elements of the invention, the first and / or second preferred embodiment of the invention, and variants thereof. Accordingly, an embodiment comprises, for example, a plurality of transmission elements according to the first preferred embodiment of the invention and a plurality of corresponding first actuating elements. The majority of the elements are essentially structurally identical to one another.

[0038] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for modifying the sound of a stringed musical instrument. The device comprises a bridge and a transmission element arranged on the bridge. The bridge is arranged on a surface of a top of the stringed musical instrument via a first contact surface of the transmission element, whereby a vibration-transmitting connection is established between the bridge and the body via the first contact surface.

[0039] A third aspect of the invention relates to a stringed musical instrument, preferably a guitar and particularly preferably an electric guitar, with a device according to the invention for modifying the sound of a stringed musical instrument. The device comprises a bridge and a transmission element arranged on the bridge. The bridge is arranged on a surface of a top of the stringed musical instrument via a first contact surface of the transmission element, with a vibration-transmitting connection being established between the bridge and the body via the first contact surface.

[0040] Further preferred embodiments of the invention emerge from the remaining features mentioned in the subclaims.

[0041] The various embodiments of the invention mentioned in this application can be advantageously combined with one another, unless otherwise stated in individual cases. The invention is explained below in exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. They show:

[0042] Figure 1 shows a device for changing the sound according to a first embodiment of the invention,

[0043] Figure 2 is a sectional view of the sound changing device according to the first embodiment of the invention,

[0044] Figure 3 is a sectional view of a sound modifying device according to a second embodiment of the invention,

[0045] Figure 4 is a plan view of the sound changing device according to the second embodiment of the invention,

[0046] Figure 5 is a partial perspective view of a top side of a bridge of the sound changing device according to the second embodiment of the invention,

[0047] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a bottom side of the bridge of the device for

[0048] Change of sound according to the second embodiment of the invention,

[0049] Figure 7 is a sectional view of a sound modifying device according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0050] Figure 1 shows a device for modifying the sound 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention, and Figure 2 shows a sectional view of the device for modifying the sound according to the first embodiment of the invention. The device for modifying the sound 1 comprises a bridge 10 and a plurality of transmission elements 20 arranged on the bridge 10. The further description refers to one of these transmission elements, which are essentially identical in construction. The bridge 10 is arranged on a surface 61 of a top of the stringed musical instrument via a first contact surface 21 of the transmission element 20. In the present case, the stringed musical instrument is an electric guitar comprising a body 60 with the top and its surface 61. A vibration-transmitting connection is established between the bridge 10 and the body 60 of the stringed musical instrument via the first contact surface 21.The bridge 10 is a floating bridge construction. The bridge 10 comprises an elongated saddle 18, which accommodates six saddle inserts 14, also called string saddles 14, and the corresponding screws for adjusting the string length (intonation). These screws are not visible in this case due to their rearward arrangement. The bridge 10 is attached to the body 60 of the guitar via two openings located at each of the lateral end regions of the bridge 10, in conjunction with support elements 16 received by the openings. In this case, these support elements are threaded posts 16 or studs 16. These are either screwed directly into the top of the guitar or into threaded anchors pressed into the body 60. In order to adjust a string height (string action) of strings 70, the bridge 10 sits on two holders 15 in the form of threaded wheels 15 or knurled nuts 15, which are screwed onto the threaded posts 16.In other words, the bridge 10 is height-adjustable. Furthermore, the bridge 10 comprises an outer surface 11, which is arranged, among other things, on an underside facing the ceiling.

[0051] The sound-modifying device 1 further comprises a transmission element 20, which in this case is a wedge-shaped wooden wedge 20. The wooden wedge 20 has, among other things, two opposing surfaces 21, 22 that run at an angle to each other, thereby creating the wedge shape. The first surface 21 is the first contact surface 21, which directly contacts the surface of the top 61. The second surface 22, which is inclined relative to a horizontal line, is the second contact surface 22, which in this case directly contacts the outer surface 11 of the bridge 10.

[0052] Accordingly, there are different dimensions between the first contact surface 21 and that of the second contact surface 22, since both run at an angle to one another. This makes it possible to achieve compensation by variably arranging the transmission element 20 between the bridge 10 and the surface of the ceiling 61 when the height of the bridge 10, i.e. a distance between the bridge 10 and the surface of the ceiling 61, is changed. If the distance is reduced, for example, the transmission element 20 is positioned such that it contacts the bridge 10 and the surface 61 at a position that now has a smaller dimension than in an initial or previous position. Conversely, if the distance is increased, the transmission element 20 is arranged so that a point with a larger dimension between the first and second contact surfaces 21, 22 now contacts the bridge 10 and the surface 61.

[0053] In other words, the bridge 10 is height adjustable and the wooden wedge

[0054] 20 is designed to always maintain the vibration-transmitting connection when the height of the bridge 10 is adjusted - i.e. a change in the distance between the bridge 10 and the surface of the ceiling 61 - even when the height of the bridge 10 is adjusted and to maintain contact between the first contact surface 21 and the surface 61.

[0055] In addition, the device 1 comprises a tailpiece 50 separate from the bridge 10. The tailpiece 50 has, among other things, a plurality of identical recesses 51 arranged between adjacent strings 70 and extending completely through the tailpiece along a direction of travel of the tensioned strings 70. A plurality of first adjusting elements 30 are each releasably mounted in one of the recesses 51 of the separate tailpiece 50. The further description refers to one of the first adjusting elements and one of the recesses, which interact and are essentially identical in construction to the other corresponding elements. In the released state, the first adjusting element 30 is movable along the recess 51. Furthermore, one end of the first adjusting element 30 is connected to the transmission element 20. In this case, the first adjusting element 30 is a cylinder head screw 30.The recess 51 includes an internal thread (not shown) for the mobility of the cylinder head screw 30, which corresponds to an external thread (not shown) of the cylinder head screw 30, thus establishing a connection between the recess 51 and the cylinder head screw 30. The rotational movement of the cylinder head screw 30 achieves a translational movement of the cylinder head screw 30 within the recess 51 along the string direction.

[0056] The cylinder head screw 30 comprises a head 31 that has a larger diameter than the recess 51 and is arranged on a first side of the recess 51. The first side of the recess 51 is the side arranged further away from the tensioned strings 70. This secures the cylinder head screw 30 in a form-fitting manner, as its movement towards the head of the stringed musical instrument is limited as soon as the head 31 of the cylinder head screw 30 contacts the tailpiece 50, since the head 31 does not fit through the recess 51. Furthermore, the cylinder head screw 30 is detachably mounted by another form-fitting connection on a second side of the recess 51. The second side of the recess 51 is the side arranged closer to the tensioned strings 70.This further positive connection comprises two lock nuts 52, which are arranged on the second side of the recess 51 and by means of an internal thread on a shaft 32 of the cylinder head screw 30, which matches the external thread of the cylinder head screw 30. This limits the movement of the cylinder head screw 30 in a direction opposite to the head of the stringed musical instrument. If, for example, the cylinder head screw 30 is then moved axially opposite to the head of the stringed musical instrument by rotation after the further positive connection has been released, for example by loosening the lock nuts 52, it is possible to re-establish the positive connection after reaching a desired position, which affects the transmission element 20 and thus the vibration-transmitting connection.For this purpose, the lock nuts 52 are repositioned accordingly so that they contact the tailpiece 50 and further movement of the cylinder head screw 30 is prevented because the lock nuts 52 do not fit through the recess 51. Accordingly, this combination of head 31 and lock nuts 52 enables compressive and tensile loading. The transmission element 20 can thereby be positioned as desired, depending on the distance between the bridge 10 and the body 60, by moving in the same direction as the direction of movement of the cylinder head screw 30, such that the vibration-transmitting connection and the contact of the first contact surface 21 with the surface and the contact of the second contact surface 22 with the outer surface 11 are maintained.

[0057] Figure 3 shows a sectional view of a device for changing the sound T according to a second embodiment of the invention and Figure 4 shows a plan view of the device for changing the sound T according to the second embodiment of the invention.

[0058] Components that do not differ from the sound modification device 1 according to the first embodiment of the invention are provided with the same reference numerals, and the above descriptions apply accordingly. Different components are provided with different reference numerals and explained accordingly.

[0059] The device for modifying the sound T comprises a bridge 10' and a transmission element 20' arranged on the bridge 10'. The bridge 10' is arranged on the surface of the top 61 of the stringed musical instrument via a first contact surface 2T of the transmission element 20'. In the present case, the stringed musical instrument is an electric guitar comprising the body 60 with the top and its surface 61. A vibration-transmitting connection is established between the bridge 10' and the body 60 of the stringed musical instrument via the first contact surface 2T.

[0060] The bridge 10' is designed according to the previously described floating embodiment. Accordingly, it also has the outer surface of the bridge 11, the saddles 14, the holders 15, and the support elements 16. Furthermore, the bridge 10' comprises a plurality of openings 12 extending through the bridge 10'. The openings 12 are each designed to receive a transmission element 20'. The plurality of openings 12 and the plurality of transmission elements 20' are each structurally identical, which is why the design for each of the corresponding elements will be explained below. The opening 12 comprises a first section 121 and a second section 122. In the present case, both sections 121, 122 are cylindrical and accordingly each have a circular cross-section. The diameter of the first section 121 is smaller than the diameter of the second section 122.The opening 12 includes an internal thread disposed within the first portion 121.

[0061] Furthermore, the bridge 10' comprises steps 17 arranged at each of the lateral end regions. In other words, the thickness of the bridge 10' is tapered there, and the bridge 10' has a stepped profile there, so that the thickness is lower there than in the other regions of the bridge 10'. The bridge 10' also has holding elements 13 designed to exert a holding force on the bridge 10' acting in the direction of the body 60. Each of the lateral end regions of the bridge is releasably mounted between one of the above-described holders 15 and one of the holding elements 13. In this case, the mounting is achieved by means of a positive connection. The holding element is preferably a lock nut 13. The steps 17 create or enlarge an exposed area of ​​the lateral end regions, within which the holding elements 13 can then be arranged.

[0062] The sound modification device 1' further comprises a transmission element 20', which according to this embodiment is a wooden cylinder 20'. The wooden cylinder 20' has two opposing base surfaces, which represent the first contact surface 21' and the second contact surface 22'. The cross-section of the transmission element 20' is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first section 121 and smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second section 122. Accordingly, the wooden cylinder 20' can be accommodated by the second section 122, but movement of the wooden cylinder 20' within the opening 12 is limited by the first section 121.

[0063] The first contact surface 21' contacts the surface of the top 61 through the arrangement of the bridge 10' on the top of the body 60.

[0064] Furthermore, the bridge 10' comprises a arranged in the penetrating opening 12 and connected to the

[0065] A second actuating element 40 is detachably connected to the bridge and, in the released state, is movable along the opening 12 in order to contact the second contact surface 22' of the transmission element 20' depending on a relative position of the second actuating element 40 in the opening. In other words, when the bridge 10' is arranged on the surface of the ceiling 61, the second contact surface 22' contacts an outer surface of the second actuating element 40. The second actuating element 40 arranged in the through-opening 12 thus acts on the transmission element 20' because the outer surface of the second actuating element 40 contacts the second contact surface 22' of the transmission element 20', the position of the second actuating element 40 within the through-opening 12 being adjusted depending on a distance between the bridge 10' and the surface of the ceiling 61.In other words, the second adjusting element 40 serves to connect the transmission element 20' to the bridge 10' and is designed to maintain the vibration-transmitting connection and the contacting of the first contact surface 21' with the surface 61. The second adjusting element 40 comprises an external thread that matches the internal thread of the first section 121. This establishes a connection between the first section 121 and the second adjusting element 40. By rotating the second adjusting element 40 by means of a drive of the second adjusting element 40, it is thereby arranged to be movable along the first section 121. The second adjusting element 40 is preferably a grub screw 40.

[0066] By means of the device T according to the invention, and in particular the transmission element 20', in addition to the string pressure acting on the bridge 10' and preventing it from moving away from the top, a counterpressure is now also exerted that counteracts this string pressure. To prevent this from causing the bridge to move or release automatically, the retaining elements 13 are provided.

[0067] When the second actuating element 40' is displaced completely along the second section 122 against the ceiling, the transmission element 20' contacts an inner surface of the second section 122, since the diameter of the transmission element 20' is larger than the diameter of the first section 121, thereby limiting a minimum distance between the ceiling and the bridge 10'.

[0068] As shown in particular in Figure 4, a gap is provided between the transmission element 20' and a surface of the second section 122 radially surrounding it. For this purpose, in Figure 4, the area showing the opening 12 with the first and second sections 121, 122 as well as the wooden cylinder 20' and second actuating element 40 is shown in the form of a sectional view to illustrate the relative arrangement of these components to one another. In other words, the diameter of the cylindrical transmission element 20' is smaller than the diameter of the circular second section 122, such that a gap is formed. Ceilings or their surfaces often have a curvature. Due to the gap, the transmission element 20' is arranged obliquely within the second section 122, wherein the first contact surface 2T then adapts to the local curvature of the ceiling, so that the contacting area is increased.

[0069] Figure 5 shows a partial perspective view of a top side of the bridge 10' of the device for changing the sound T according to the second embodiment of the invention, and Figure 6 shows a bottom side of the bridge 10' of the device for changing the sound T according to the second embodiment of the invention. The screws for adjusting the string length are also visible here.

[0070] Here, the arrangement of the opening 12 between the saddles 14, which are guided along rail-like bridges, is particularly clearly shown. This allows for particularly efficient use of space. Figure 6 shows the underside of the bridge 10', so that the grub screw, which is arranged within the first section 121 and extends with one end into the second section 122, is visible in order to contact the second contact surface 22' (not shown) of the transmission element 20'.

[0071] Figure 7 shows a sectional view of a device for changing the sound 1" according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0072] Components that do not differ from the sound modification device 1 or T according to the first embodiment of the invention are provided with the same reference numerals, and the above descriptions also apply to these components. Different components are provided with different reference numerals and explained accordingly.

[0073] The device for modifying the sound 1" comprises a bridge 10" and a transmission element 20" arranged on the bridge 10". The bridge 10" is arranged on the surface of the top 61 of the stringed musical instrument via a first contact surface 21" of the transmission element 20". In the present case, the stringed musical instrument is an electric guitar, which comprises the body 60 with the top and its surface 61. A vibration-transmitting connection is established between the bridge 10" and the body 60 of the stringed musical instrument via the first contact surface 21". The bridge 10" also has the outer surface of the bridge 11. In addition, the bridge 10" comprises a plurality of openings 12" passing through the bridge 10". Each of the openings 12" comprises an internal thread.

[0074] The device for modifying the sound 1" further comprises the transmission element 20", which according to this embodiment is a bar-shaped element 20". The bar-shaped element 20" has two opposing base surfaces, which represent the first contact surface 21" and the second contact surface 22". The bridge 10" has a recess 19 (not shown), the shape and orientation of which corresponds to the bar-shaped element 20" such that the bar-shaped element can be arranged in the recess 19. In the present case, the recess 19 does not extend completely over the bridge 10", although this may alternatively be the case.

[0075] In the present case, one edge of the beam-shaped element 20" has an edge length such that when the beam-shaped element 20" is mounted in the recess 19, the beam-shaped element 20" is arranged below a plurality of string saddles. In other words, the beam-shaped element 20" is arranged in the same orientation as the bridge 10". The beam-shaped element 20" can be fixably arranged in the recess 19, wherein the beam-shaped element 20" can be guided in the recess 19 in a released state and is fixed in the recess 19 in an unreleased state.

[0076] Furthermore, the transmission element 20" has a plurality of slot-shaped recesses 23. This increases the flexibility and elasticity of the transmission element 20", which can thus better adapt to the top of the stringed musical instrument. The slot-shaped recesses 23 are arranged equidistantly on each side along the bar-shaped element 20". A cross-section of the slot-shaped recesses 23 is triangular. In the present case, the transmission element 20" has the slot-shaped recesses 23 on a side facing the surface of the top 61 of the stringed musical instrument and on a side facing the bridge 10", whereby the slot-shaped recesses 23 can also be provided on only one or the other side. The slot-shaped recesses 23 run in the direction of the strings, thereby enabling an improved adaptation of the transmission element 20" to the top.

[0077] The first contact surface 21" contacts the surface of the ceiling 61 due to the arrangement of the bridge 10" on the ceiling of the body 60. Furthermore, the bridge 10" comprises a second actuating element 40" arranged in the through-opening 12" and detachably connected to the bridge, which, in the released state, is movable along the opening 12" in order to contact the second contact surface 22" of the transmission element 20" depending on a relative position of the second actuating element 40" in the opening 12". In other words, when the bridge 10" is arranged on the surface of the ceiling 61, the second contact surface 22" contacts an outer surface of the second actuating element 40".The second adjusting element 40" arranged in the through-opening 12" thus acts on the transmission element 20" because the outer surface of the second adjusting element 40" contacts the second contact surface 22" of the transmission element 20", wherein the position of the second adjusting element 40" within the through-opening 12" is adjusted depending on a distance between the bridge 10" and the surface of the ceiling 61. In other words, the second adjusting element 40" serves to connect the transmission element 20" to the bridge 10" and is designed to maintain the vibration-transmitting connection and the contact of the first contact surface 21" with the surface 61, as well as to fix the beam-shaped element 20". The second adjusting element 40" comprises an external thread that matches the internal thread of the through-opening 12". This creates a connection between the through-opening 12" and the second adjusting element 40".By rotating the second adjusting element 40" by means of a drive of the second adjusting element 40", it is thereby arranged to be movable along the through-opening 12". The second adjusting element 40" is preferably a grub screw 40". The slot-shaped recesses 23 enable adaptation to the ceiling. At the same time, due to the fixation by the second adjusting element 40" in conjunction with the through-opening 12", it is possible to take into account the different distances between the second contact surface 22" and the bridge 10". For larger distances, the second adjusting element 40" can be adjusted by adjusting its relative position such that it continues to contact the second contact surface 22", wherein at the same time smaller distances can be taken into account by a different relative position of another second adjusting element 40". List of reference numerals.

[0078] 1, T, 1“ device for changing the sound

[0079] 10, 10', 10" bridge

[0080] 11 Outer surface of the bridge

[0081] 12, 12" opening

[0082] 121 first section

[0083] 122 second section

[0084] 13 Retaining element / lock nut

[0085] 14 saddles

[0086] 15 brackets / threaded wheels / knurled nuts

[0087] 16 Supporting element / threaded bolt / stud bolt

[0088] 17 paragraph

[0089] 18 Saddle

[0090] 19 Recess

[0091] 20 transmission element / wooden wedge

[0092] 20' transmission element / wooden cylinder

[0093] 20" transmission element / beam-shaped element

[0094] 21, 2T, 22" first contact surface

[0095] 22, 22', 22“ second contact surface

[0096] 23 slot-shaped recess

[0097] 30 first adjusting element / cylinder head screw

[0098] 31 Head of the cylinder head screw

[0099] 32 Shaft of the cylinder head screw

[0100] 40, 40“ second adjusting element / grub screw

[0101] 50 tailpieces

[0102] 51 recess

[0103] 52 lock nuts

[0104] 60 Corpus

[0105] 61 Surface of a ceiling

[0106] 70 strings

Claims

Patent claims 1. A device for changing the sound of a stringed musical instrument (1, T, 1"), comprising: a bridge (10, 10', 10"), and a transmission element (20, 20', 20") arranged on the bridge (10, 10', 10"), wherein the bridge (10, 10', 10") can be arranged on a surface of a top (61) of the stringed musical instrument via a first contact surface (21, 21', 21") of the transmission element (20, 20', 20") in order to establish a vibration-transmitting connection between the bridge (10, 10', 10") and a body (60) of the stringed musical instrument via the first contact surface (21, 21', 21").

2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the transmission element (20, 20', 20") is height adjustable.

3. Device according to claim 2, wherein the device further comprises: a first adjusting element (30) which is connected to the transmission element (20, 20', 20") and is designed to vary the height of the transmission element (20, 20', 20").

4. Device according to claim 3, wherein the first adjusting element (30) is detachably mounted in a recess (51) of a tailpiece (50) separate from the bridge (10, 10', 10") and, in the released state, with the bridge (10, 10', 10") arranged on the surface of the top (61) and variable distances between the bridge (10, 10', 10") and the surface of the top (61), is movable along the recess (51) to vary the height of the transmission element (20, 20', 20").

5. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transmission element (20, 20', 20") has a second contact surface (22, 22', 22"), which preferably comprises an inclined plane, which contacts an outer surface of the bridge (11) when the bridge (10, 10', 10") is arranged on the surface of the ceiling (61).

6. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bridge (10, 10', 10") further comprises: an opening (12, 12") passing through the bridge (10, 10', 10"), wherein the passing opening (12, 12") is designed to receive the transmission element (20, 20', 20"), a second actuating element (40, 40") arranged in the passing opening (12, 12") and detachably connected to the bridge (10, 10', 10"), which in the released state is movable along the passing opening (12, 12") in order to actuate a second contact surface (22, 22', 22") of the transmission element (20, 20', 20") depending on a relative position of the second actuating element (40, 40") in the passing opening (12, 12") contact.

7. Device according to one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the bridge (10, 10', 10") further comprises holding elements (13) which are designed to exert a holding force on the bridge (10, 10', 10") acting in the direction of the body (60).

8. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transmission element (20, 20', 20") comprises a beam-shaped element (20") which is mounted in a recess (19) of the bridge (10, 10', 10") corresponding to the beam-shaped element (20").

9. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transmission element (20, 20', 20") has at least one slot-shaped recess (23) for increasing an elasticity of the transmission element (20, 20', 20").

10. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transmission element (20, 20', 20") comprises a wood, preferably a tone wood.

11. Device according to claim 10, wherein the transmission element (20, 20', 20") comprises a plurality of layers of different types of wood.

12. A method for changing the sound of a stringed musical instrument with a device according to one of the preceding claims comprising the bridge (10, 10', 10") and the transmission element (20, 20', 20") arranged on the bridge (10, 10', 10"), the method comprising the following steps: Arranging the bridge (10, 10', 10") over the first contact surface (21, 21', 21") of the transmission element (20, 20', 20") on the surface of the top (61) of the stringed musical instrument, wherein the vibration-transmitting connection between the bridge (10, 10', 10") and the body (60) is established via the first contact surface (21, 21', 21").

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