Diagonal Sympathetic Strings for Bowed Instruments
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bowed string instruments lack the ability to incorporate sympathetic strings that can be plucked or strummed, resulting in restricted musical sounds and aesthetics, and often do not fit into conventional instrument cases.
Innovation Solution
A bowed stringed instrument with sympathetic strings positioned diagonally across the soundboard, supported by supplementary bridges and tuners, allowing for plucking or strumming and enhancing resonance, while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sympathetic strings are aligned with and disposed under the primary strings, then the instrument can produce resonant sounds, but the sympathetic strings are not accessible for plucking
Solution Approach 1:
The sympathetic strings are repositioned from a horizontal alignment under the primary strings to a diagonal arrangement across the soundboard, transitioning from a two-dimensional under-string configuration to a multi-dimensional layout that spans across the instrument body. This dimensional change makes the strings accessible for plucking while maintaining their resonant function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If sympathetic strings are positioned to be plucked or strummed, then the instrument can produce non-traditional sounds, but the aesthetic design and compactness are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The sympathetic strings are arranged diagonally across the soundboard rather than symmetrically under the primary strings. This asymmetric positioning allows the strings to be accessible for plucking and strumming while creating a visually interesting design that does not compromise the overall aesthetic of the instrument.
3Shape
If sympathetic strings are positioned diagonally across the soundboard, then the instrument maintains aesthetic appeal and compactness, but additional structural support is required
Solution Approach 1:
A supplementary bridge is introduced as an intermediary structural element to support the sympathetic strings at their midpoint. This mediator component distributes the string tension and provides necessary support without requiring complex reinforcement of the soundboard or other structural modifications.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional bowed string instrument design is used, then the instrument fits conventional cases, but sympathetic strings cannot be effectively incorporated
Solution Approach 1:
The diagonal positioning of sympathetic strings across the soundboard allows them to be effectively incorporated into the instrument while maintaining a compact form factor. The strings are positioned to utilize the existing instrument geometry, ensuring that the overall size remains compatible with conventional instrument cases.
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
The instrument produces enriched resonance and versatile sound options, enabling non-traditional playing techniques and creating a larger-than-life acoustic experience, while being visually appealing and easily transportable.
Implementation Method 1
sympathetic strings that resonate under the influence of the standard four strings
Data Source
AI summary
A stringed instrument with sympathetic strings is provided that includes (in addition to the primary elements corresponding to standard instrument elements) sympathetic strings, one or more supplementary bridges, a supplementary string termination assembly, and a set of supplementary tuners. The sympathetic strings are stretched diagonally across the soundboard of the instrument, with one end of each string attached at a supplementary tuner and the other end attached at a supplementary string termination assembly. The sympathetic strings are spaced by the supplementary bridge(s) a sufficient distance from the soundboard to prevent interaction with it during vibration of the string during playing. The sympathetic strings are activated by sound vibrations created by the bowed primary strings, may additionally be activated by plucking or strumming, and may be manually muted.