Integrated Electric Guitar Audio System with Smart Device Docking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional electric guitar setups are cumbersome and inconvenient for transport due to the need for multiple components such as amplifiers, effects pedals, and cables, despite the introduction of guitar apps that offer portable functionality.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an audio system, loudspeaker, audio interface, and power supply within the instrument's body, along with a docking station for smart devices, allowing for a self-contained, portable electric guitar setup with wireless connectivity and vibration dampening to reduce feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional electric guitar setup components (amplifier, effects pedals, cables) are used, then full instrument functionality is achieved, but portability and ease of transport deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the amplifier, effects processing, speaker, and control interface into a single integrated unit attached to the guitar body. This merging of previously separate components (amplifier, effects pedals, cables) into one consolidated device maintains full instrument functionality while dramatically improving portability and ease of transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated unit serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as an amplifier, contains effects processing capabilities, provides a control interface, and includes a speaker system. This multi-functionality in a single device eliminates the need for multiple separate components, resolving the contradiction between full functionality and portability.
2Ease of operation
If amplifier and speaker are integrated into the instrument body, then portability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The amplifier, speaker, and control interface are nested within or integrated into the guitar body structure. This nesting approach allows the complex functionality to be housed within the existing instrument form factor, minimizing additional bulk and maintaining portability while accommodating the increased device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If audio processing components are added to the instrument, then signal processing capability is improved, but feedback and vibration interference worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces vibration dampeners as intermediary elements between the string vibration source and the audio processing components. These dampeners act as mediators that reduce unwanted vibrations and prevent feedback loops, allowing the audio processing components to function effectively without generating harmful feedback interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The vibration dampeners convert potentially harmful vibrations and feedback into beneficial vibration isolation. By strategically placing dampening materials at critical points, the design transforms what would be harmful feedback loops into controlled vibration management, improving overall signal quality.
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 a compact, portable electric guitar setup that includes a recording studio and full instrument functionality, providing direct sound and improved player experience with reduced feedback and enhanced connectivity.
Implementation Method 1
When a metallic object (such as an electric guitar string for example) is vibrated above the magnetic coil, the magnetic field is disturbed and an electrical current is produced.
Implementation Method 2
The neck sub-assembly is connected to the body portion through a vibration dampener
Data Source
AI summary
The present indention provides a stringed musical instrument comprising; a substantially hollow body portion containing an audio system comprising an amplifier; at least one loudspeaker electrically connected to the audio amplifier; an audio interface for electrically connecting to a smart device and a power supply electrically connected to the audio system; a neck sub-assembly including: a neck; playing strings extending lengthwise along the neck; a bridge attached to the neck over which the strings are stretched, and tensioning means by which the strings are held tensioned; and a docking station whereby, in use, a smart device may be removably secured to the instrument and electrically connected to the audio system.