Chord Assist Assembly with Microprocessor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for playing chords on guitars are cumbersome, complex, and limited in their ability to easily produce any form of note or chord, making it difficult for beginners and those with limited dexterity to learn and play music effectively.
Innovation Solution
A chord and note assist assembly with multi-position string engaging assemblies controlled by an electronic microprocessor circuit board, allowing for the definition of chords and notes on a guitar through a keypad interface and solenoids that engage strings, along with an extension device that covers higher frets, enabling chords to be played with one finger.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If prior art devices are used to play chords on guitar, then chord playing is assisted, but the devices are cumbersome, complex, and very limited in their abilities
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate modules: a forming aid that attaches to the fretboard and an extension device that clips onto the guitar body. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently and reduces overall complexity while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The forming aid serves multiple functions: it acts as a capo to clamp strings, provides a platform for the extension device, and includes its own string engagement mechanisms. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying the overall system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If prior art devices are used to play chords on guitar, then some chord assistance is provided, but they are very limited in their ability to construct any form or type of note or chord
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates movable levers and adjustable string engagement points that can be dynamically positioned to create different chord configurations. This dynamic adjustability allows the same physical device to produce a wide variety of chords without requiring multiple fixed components.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension device adds a vertical dimension to chord formation by incorporating fretting mechanisms that press strings against the fretboard from above, complementing the horizontal string clamping action of the forming aid. This multi-dimensional approach expands chord possibilities.
3Productivity
If traditional guitar learning methods are used, then musical theory can be studied, but it requires mastery of many types of fingerings and produces no immediate ability to play
Solution Approach 1:
The device pre-configures string positions and fretting points to automatically form correct chord shapes when activated. This preliminary arrangement of components allows beginners to produce accurate chords immediately without requiring prior knowledge of finger placement or chord theory.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables beginners and experienced players to play complex chords and notes easily, builds confidence, and allows for the creation of new chords, facilitating quicker learning and enjoyment of guitar playing.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the solenoids includes a first end and a second end, the first end includes a coil in which an armature is positioned and the second end includes an extended portion of the armature
Implementation Method 2
a strap harness of chord and/or note forming aid selectively extends across the recessed section in a manner frictionally holding a neck of a guitar within the recessed section
Implementation Method 3
engage strings of a guitar in a controlled manner so as to define chords associated with playing a guitar
Data Source
AI summary
A chord and/or note assist assembly includes a chord and/or note forming aid having a plurality of multi-position string engaging assemblies that engage strings of a guitar in a controlled manner so as to define chords associated with playing a guitar and an extension device having a plurality of multi-position string engaging assemblies that engage strings of a guitar in a controlled manner so as to define chords associated with playing a guitar. An electronic microprocessor circuit board is electrically linked to a solid-state memory to control the plurality of multi-position string engaging assemblies of both the chord and/or note forming aid and the extension device.