Bass Clarinet Support Plate with Magnetic Articulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support devices for bass clarinets are not suitable for long-term standing play, as they either fix the instrument in an uncomfortable position or are not designed to handle the weight effectively, leading to player fatigue and potential damage to the instrument.
Innovation Solution
A support device comprising a support plate that rests on the abdominal plane of the player, a connecting rod with a magnetized end that can move relative to the support plate, and a wire element that distributes the weight of the bass clarinet, allowing for adjustable length and articulation to accommodate different playing positions and reduce strain on the player's fingers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed support plate configuration is used to support the bass clarinet, then the instrument is stable relative to the player, but it is not suitable for standing play and causes player fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The support plate is made movable relative to the player's torso through a combination of magnetic attraction and friction forces, allowing the system to adapt dynamically to different playing positions (seated or standing) while maintaining instrument stability. The plate can slide along the torso within magnetic and friction constraints, providing dynamic adjustment without requiring fixed rigid mounting.
2Force
If a heavy bass clarinet is supported by a cord around the player's neck, then part of the weight is supported, but the player quickly becomes tired during long sessions
Solution Approach 1:
The cord-based neck support system is replaced with a ventral support plate that rests on the player's torso (abdomen or chest area). This substitution moves the support point from the neck to a more stable and comfortable location on the torso, distributing the instrument's weight more effectively and reducing fatigue during extended playing sessions.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the support plate is fixed to the player's torso, then the instrument position is stable, but it is not suitable for standing play and limits player movement
Solution Approach 1:
The support plate is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to slide along the player's torso while maintaining magnetic and friction constraints. This enables the same device to accommodate both seated and standing playing positions, as well as transitions between them, without requiring reconfiguration or multiple devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The support plate is designed as a universal solution that can be used with various wind instruments (clarinets, saxophones, etc.) and in various playing positions (seated or standing). The movable design and adjustable magnetic/friction parameters allow a single device to serve multiple functions and adapt to different players and instrument types.
4Strength
If a rigid connecting rod is used to attach the bass clarinet, then the connection is strong, but it cannot accommodate different playing positions and causes strain
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid connecting rod is replaced with a flexible wire element that provides both strength and flexibility. The wire element can bend and adjust to accommodate different playing positions and player movements while maintaining sufficient strength to support the instrument's weight. This flexible connection eliminates strain caused by rigid positioning constraints.
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 comfortable, long-term play without excessive strain on the player's torso and minimizes the risk of damage to the bass clarinet by distributing the weight effectively and allowing for movement and adjustment to maintain ergonomic positioning.
Implementation Method 1
the support plate and/or the second end of the connecting rod are magnetized to fix the second end with the support plate by magnetization so that the support plate is movable relative to the abdominal part of the instrumentalist
Data Source
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AI summary
The bass clarinet support device comprises a harness (1) with a support plate (2). The harness (1) is worn by an instrumentalist. The support plate (2) is attached to the harness (1) and arranged to rest against the instrumentalist's abdomen in the sagittal plane. The support plate (2) defines a contact plane. A connecting rod (6) has one end attached to the bass clarinet and a second, opposite end attached to the support plate (2). Fastening means (8) are provided between the second end and the support plate (2). The fastening means (8) are configured so that the second end is removable from the support plate (2).