Bow for playing a string instrument

Abstract

The invention relates to a bow (1) for playing a string instrument, comprising a bow stick (2) having a first end and a second end, a bow tip (4) arranged at the first end of the bow stick (2), a frog (5) arranged at the second end of the bow stick (2), a bowstring (6) which has a multiplicity of bow hairs and is tensioned between the bow tip (4) and the frog (5), wherein the bow stick (2) is designed in two parts, comprising a first bow stick part (10) and a second bow stick part (11), wherein the first bow stick part (10) has a reduced diameter at its end (12) and the second bow stick part (11) has a complementary recess (13) at its end facing the first bow stick part (10) such that the first bow stick part (10) and the second bow stick part (11) can be pushed or screwed into one another or releasably connected to one another in order to form a continuous bow stick (2).

Description

[0001] Bow for playing a stringed instrument

[0002] The invention relates to a bow for playing a stringed instrument comprising a bow stick with a first end and a second end, a bow tip arranged at the first end of the bow stick, a frog arranged at the second end of the bow stick, and a stringing comprising a plurality of bow hairs which is stretched between the bow tip and the frog.

[0003] A bow is required to play a stringed instrument, especially a violin, viola, cello, or double bass. Bows for stringed instruments usually consist of a long, slightly curved bow stick, traditionally made of pernambuco wood or another suitable wood, while modern bows can also be made of composite materials such as carbon fiber reinforced plastic.

[0004] A key feature of bows for stringed instruments is their length, which allows the player to guide the bow across the instrument's strings, producing a full, singing tone. The standard length of a violin bow, for example, is approximately 72 to 75 cm, while the length of a violin itself is typically between 59 and 62 cm.

[0005] The considerable length of the bow compared to the instrument, however, leads to problems with storage and transport. Stringed instruments are usually stored and transported together with their bow in a single case. These cases are adapted to the length of the bow to ensure safe and protective storage. However, this results in a case size that is significantly larger than the dimensions of the instrument.

[0006] The need to use cases adapted to the bow's length results in increased storage space requirements and greater bulkiness during transport. This can be particularly inconvenient when traveling by air or in situations with limited storage space, as the cases are more difficult to handle and stow due to their size, and sometimes their transport is even prohibited.

[0007] The invention is therefore based on the objective of creating a bow for stringed instruments that has a more compact design and thus allows the use of smaller, more manageable cases without impairing the playing characteristics of a conventional bow. In particular, the bow according to the invention should be able to be reduced in length so that it can be stored together with the instrument in a case whose size is closer to the dimensions of the instrument. The solution should also be achieved without additional, loose parts that can easily be lost.

[0008] To solve this problem, the invention essentially provides, in the case of a bow of the type mentioned at the outset, that the bow rod is made in two parts, comprising a first bow rod part and a second bow rod part, wherein the first bow rod part has a reduced diameter at its end and the second bow rod part has a complementary recess at its end facing the first bow rod part, so that the first bow rod part and the second bow rod part can be inserted or screwed into each other and detachably connected to each other in order to form a continuous bow rod.

[0009] In its assembled or screwed-together state, the bow according to the invention has the same dimensions and playing characteristics as a conventional, one-piece bow. The reduced diameter of the first bow stick section and the complementary recess of the second bow stick section are dimensioned such that a positive-locking and play-free connection is created, preventing unintentional loosening of the connection during playing. In the screw-together version, the section with the reduced diameter of the first bow stick section is provided with an external thread and the complementary recess of the second bow stick section with an internal thread.

[0010] In the pluggable design, the end with reduced diameter and the recess preferably form an interference fit, in which the two parts lie close together to create a connection that is held together by friction after the parts are pushed together.

[0011] For storage and transport, the bow according to the invention can be disassembled into its two parts by pulling the first bow stick section out of the recess of the second bow stick section after the frog has been detached from the first bow stick section. In this disassembled state, the length of the bow is significantly reduced, typically by about 20 to 30%. This makes it possible to store the bow together with the instrument in a more compact case, the dimensions of which are closer to the size of the instrument.

[0012] The inventive ability to disassemble the bow is achieved without the need for additional, loose parts. The connection between the first and second bow sections is made solely by the positive-locking and force-fit connection formed by the reduced diameter and the complementary recess. This eliminates the risk of small parts such as screws or pins being lost and impairing the bow's functionality.

[0013] In summary, the invention provides a bow for stringed instruments which, due to its two-part, interlocking design, allows for space-saving storage and convenient transport without impairing its playing characteristics or requiring additional parts. This significantly simplifies the handling and transport of the equipment, especially when traveling or in confined spaces.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the dividing plane in which the first and second bow rod sections meet is essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bow rod. This means that the abutting end faces of the two bow rod sections are oriented at a right angle to the longitudinal direction of the bow.

[0015] Firstly, the vertical orientation of the end faces promotes a stable and secure connection between the first and second bow stick sections. The forces acting on the bow during playing are distributed evenly across the entire end face, making the connection less susceptible to unintentional loosening or damage. Secondly, the vertical plane of division facilitates the assembly and disassembly of the bow, as the two bow stick sections can be pulled straight towards or away from each other without twisting or tilting. This allows for quick and easy handling of the bow during disassembly and reassembly.

[0016] A particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the division of the bow stick is arranged essentially at the center of gravity of the bow. The center of gravity of a bow is typically located about 19 to 20 cm from the frog end of the bow, which corresponds to about a quarter of the total length of the bow. By positioning the division plane in this area, the bow is subdivided in a ratio of approximately 1:3, with the shorter bow stick section forming the frog and the longer bow stick section forming the bow tip.

[0017] Positioning the division plane in the area of ​​the center of gravity contributes to an even distribution of loads and thus to increased durability and longevity of the bow.

[0018] Within the scope of the invention, the division can, in principle, lie in a wider range of preferably 1 : 5- 1 : 2, in particular 1 : 5- 1 : 3, wherein the distance from the frog-side end of the arc to the division plane and the distance from the tip-side end of the arc to the division plane are used to calculate the ratio.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the end of the first bow rod section with the reduced diameter is designed such that it fits snugly into the complementary recess of the second bow rod section. This means that the contour of the tapered end corresponds exactly to the shape of the recess, so that both parts fit precisely into one another and form a stable, play-free connection.

[0020] The precise fit of the two bow sections ensures that the assembled bow will not unintentionally slip apart, even under heavy use, and that forces are evenly distributed from one section to the other across the joint. Furthermore, the interlocking connection allows for precise alignment of the two sections, resulting in a straight, continuous bow. This is crucial for the bow's playing characteristics and control. Finally, the exact fit also contributes to quick and easy assembly and disassembly, as the two parts can be effortlessly inserted and removed without any risk of jamming or twisting.

[0021] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the end with the reduced diameter and the complementary recess have a non-circular cross-section that prevents relative rotation of the bow rod parts. This can be achieved, for example, by a polygonal, in particular rectangular or square, or oval cross-sectional shape, which allows the two parts to interlock positively in a defined angular position.

[0022] The use of a non-circular cross-section for the joint offers the advantage that the two bow stick sections are secured against unintentional twisting after assembly. This is important to ensure that the bow maintains its structural integrity during playing and that the bow hair is always in the correct plane. Preventing relative twisting also guarantees consistent bending stiffness and elasticity of the bow stick, which is essential for a precise and controlled playing feel. Furthermore, the defined angular position of the two bow stick sections relative to each other also facilitates bow assembly, as it allows for intuitive and error-free alignment of the parts during assembly.

[0023] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the bow rod is made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). CFRP exhibits exceptionally high specific strength and stiffness, meaning that it offers high load-bearing capacity and stability at a low weight. This allows the bow rod to be designed to be very slim and lightweight without compromising robustness and durability.

[0024] The use of CFRP also makes it possible to precisely adjust the bending stiffness and elasticity of the bow stick and adapt it to the specific requirements of the musician. Through the targeted alignment and arrangement of the carbon fibers, different bending properties can be achieved in various areas of the bow, contributing to optimal playing feel and excellent sound quality. Furthermore, CFRP is characterized by high resistance to environmental influences such as humidity, temperature, and UV radiation, which increases the bow's durability and ease of maintenance. Finally, the dimensional stability of CFRP ensures a permanently precise fit and alignment of the joint, even in the two-part construction of the bow according to the invention.

[0025] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the bow rod is hollow, and the first bow rod section has, in the end region facing the second bow rod section, an insert with a projection extending from the cavity, which forms the end with the reduced diameter. The insert can be bonded to the inner wall of the cavity of the first bow rod section.

[0026] The use of a separate insert with a protruding extension allows for the simple and precise production of the tapered end, as the insert can be manufactured as a separate component and then inserted into the cavity of the first bow rod section. This eliminates the need to reduce the wall thickness of the entire bow rod section, which would be more complex and expensive to manufacture. Furthermore, the insert can be made of a different material than the rest of the bow rod to achieve specific properties such as increased wear resistance or sliding characteristics. Finally, the protruding extension also contributes to a secure and stable connection between the two bow rod sections, as it engages deeply in the recess of the second section, thus ensuring a large contact area and a firm hold.

[0027] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the bow rod is hollow and the second bow rod part has a filling or insert in the cavity in the area of ​​the end facing the first bow rod part, in which the complementary recess is formed.

[0028] This allows for precise shaping of the recess, which can be exactly matched to the tapered end of the first bow rod section. By forming the recess in a separate insert or spacer, the need to machine the cavity of the second bow rod section itself is eliminated, which would be more complex and expensive to manufacture. Furthermore, the insert or spacer can be made of a different material than the rest of the bow rod to achieve specific properties such as increased wear resistance, sliding properties, or damping characteristics. For example, an insert made of a softer plastic can be used, allowing for some flexibility and tolerance compensation when the two bow rod sections are joined.The filling can be achieved, for example, by pouring a material into the cavity of the second bow stick section, in which the recess is subsequently formed. In the case of a prefabricated insert, it can be connected to the second bow stick section by gluing it to the inner wall of the cavity. Advantageously, the extension can have a bending stiffness substantially corresponding to that of the bow stick. This ensures that the joint between the two bow stick sections does not represent a local weak point or discontinuity in the bow's bending characteristics. If the extension were significantly softer or stiffer than the bow stick itself, this would lead to an uneven bending curve and impair the playing feel and sound quality.By adjusting the bending stiffness, a homogeneous and harmonious bending behavior is achieved over the entire length of the arc, as is the case with a conventional, one-piece arc. Furthermore, the adjusted bending stiffness of the extension also contributes to increased load-bearing capacity and durability of the plug connection, since the forces are distributed evenly and absorbed by all components in a similar manner.

[0029] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a sleeve projecting beyond the division plane of the bow rod is arranged at the end of the first bow rod part or at the end of the second bow rod part, which, in the assembled state, bridges the division plane on the surface of the bow rod in a close fit, so that a seamless and continuous connection between the two bow rod parts is created.

[0030] The inclusion of a sleeve bridging the division plane serves as an additional safeguard for the plug connection, preventing the two bow sections from unintentionally sliding apart. The sleeve's tight fit against the bow section's surface also effectively prevents the ingress of dirt, dust, or moisture into the joint area, thus increasing the bow's durability and ease of maintenance. Furthermore, the sleeve ensures precise alignment and a flush transition between the two bow sections.

[0031] According to a second aspect of the invention, a box is provided in which a bow according to the invention can be stored and transported. The box has a substantially rectangular base and side walls extending from the base, which define an elongated storage space, wherein the first bow stick section and the second bow stick section are arranged side by side in the storage space in a separated state, such that the bow tip and the frog are arranged in longitudinally opposite end regions of the storage space and the frog is attached to the first bow stick section in the opposite direction to the state of use, so that the stringing is guided from the second bow stick section around a guide piece in a deflection of substantially 180° to the frog.

[0032] Preferably, the length of the storage space corresponds essentially to the length of the second bow rod section.

[0033] A snap-on lid may be provided to close the storage compartment.

[0034] The box can be made of dimensionally stable material or, to form a case, also of a flexible material, such as fabric. In the latter case, the side walls are to be understood as a flexible extension of the base. The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to an embodiment illustrated in the drawing. In this drawing, Fig. 1 shows a conventional violin bow, Fig. 2 a detailed view of a bow according to the invention, Fig. 3 a cross-section of the bow according to Fig. 2 along line III-III, Fig. 3 a cross-section of the bow according to Fig. 2 along line IV-IV, and Fig. 5 a top view of a box according to the invention for storing the bow.

[0035] Figure 1 shows a bow 1, in particular a violin bow, comprising a bow stick 2 with a head 3 formed at the first end of the bow stick 2, having a bow tip 4, and a frog 5 arranged at the second end of the bow stick 2. A string 6 comprising a plurality of bow hairs is stretched between the bow tip 4 and the frog 5. The frog 5 is movable in the longitudinal direction of the bow by means of a rotary handle 7 connected to a threaded rod, the so-called "leg," in order to selectively tighten and loosen the bow hairs. A thumb leather 8 and a winding 9 are attached to the bow stick 2 in the area of ​​the frog 5.

[0036] As shown in Fig. 2, the bow rod 2 is designed in two parts according to the invention and comprises a first bow rod part 10 and a second bow rod part 11. The bow rod parts 10 and 11 are shown in Fig. 2 in the pulled-apart state, with only the section of the second bow rod part 11 facing the first bow rod part 10 being shown.

[0037] The first bow rod section 10 has an end 12 with a reduced diameter, which can be inserted into a complementary recess 13 formed in the second bow rod section 11 to form a continuous bow rod 2. As can be seen in the cross-sectional views according to Figures 3 and 4, the end 12 and the recess 13 each have a square cross-section, so that the end 12 can fit snugly into the complementary recess 13. The reduced-diameter end 12 of the first bow rod section 10 can be formed on a separate insert part, which is permanently attached to or within the first bow rod section 10.

[0038] Finally, at the end of the first bow rod section 10, a sleeve 14 projecting beyond the division plane of the bow rod 2 is arranged, which, in the assembled state, bridges the division plane on the surface of the bow rod in a close fit, the division plane being defined as the plane in which the end faces 15 and 16 of the first and second bow rod sections 10 and 11 respectively abut each other.

[0039] Figure 5 shows a box in a top view and in its open state. A bow according to the invention is stored in the box. The box has a substantially rectangular base 19 and side walls 17 extending from the base 19, which define an elongated storage space. The first bow section 10 and the second bow section 11 are arranged side by side in the storage space in a separated state, such that the bow tip 4 and the frog 5 are located in longitudinally opposite end regions of the storage space. To enable space-saving storage, the frog 4 is attached to the first bow section 10 in the opposite direction to its use, so that the stringing 6 is guided from the second bow section 11, or the head 3 of the bow 1, around a guide piece 18 in a deflection of substantially 180° to the frog 14.For this purpose, the frog 5 must first be removed from the first bow rod part 10 before the bow 1 is separated into its two parts, the bow rod parts must then be taken apart and finally the frog 4 must be attached to the first bow rod part 10 in reverse direction.

Claims

Patent claims:

1. Bow for playing a stringed instrument comprising a bow stick (2) with a first end and a second end, a bow tip (4) arranged at the first end of the bow stick (2), a frog (5) arranged at the second end of the bow stick (2), and a stringing (6) comprising a plurality of bow hairs, which is stretched between the bow tip (4) and the frog (5), characterized in that the bow stick (2) is made in two parts, comprising a first bow stick part (10) and a second bow stick part (11), wherein the first bow stick part (10) has a reduced diameter at its end (12) and the second bow stick part (11) has a complementary recess (13) at its end facing the first bow stick part (10), so that the first bow stick part (10) and the second bow stick part (11) can be inserted or screwed into one another and detachably connected to each other.to form a continuous bow rod (2).

2. Bow according to claim 1, characterized in that the end (12) with the reduced diameter dips into the complementary recess (13) in a form-fitting manner.

3. Bow according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the end (12) with the reduced diameter and the complementary recess (13) have a non-circular cross-section that prevents relative rotation of the bow rod parts.

4. Bow according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that the bow rod (2) is made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic.

5. Bow according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the bow rod (2) is hollow and the first bow rod part (10) has an insert part in the end area facing the second bow rod part (11) with a projection extending from the cavity, which forms the end (12) with the reduced diameter.

6. Bow according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the bow rod (2) is hollow and the second bow rod part (11) has a filling or insert in the cavity in the area of ​​the end facing the first bow rod part (10), in which the complementary recess (13) is formed.

7. Bow according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the extension has a bending stiffness substantially corresponding to that of the bow rod (2).

8. Bow according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that a sleeve (14) projecting beyond the division plane of the bow rod (2) is arranged at the end (12) of the first bow rod part (10) or at the end of the second bow rod part (11), which, in the assembled state, bridges the division plane on the surface of the bow rod (2) in a close fit.

9. Bow according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the division of the bow rod (2) is arranged substantially at the center of gravity of the bow (1).

10. Box with a bow (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, comprising a substantially rectangular base (19) and side walls (17) extending from the base, which define an elongated storage space, wherein the first bow section (10) and the second bow section (11) are arranged side by side in the storage space in a separated state, such that the bow tip (4) and the frog (5) are arranged in longitudinally opposite end regions of the storage space and the frog (5) is attached to the first bow section (10) in a direction opposite to the state of use, so that the covering (6) is guided from the second bow section (11) around a guide piece in a deflection of substantially 180° to the frog (5).

11. Box according to claim 10, characterized in that the length of the storage space corresponds substantially to the length of the second bow rod part (11).

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