Guitar String Locking Device with Rotative Press
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices for guitar strings, such as vibrato systems, tend to detune due to string slippage at the nut, requiring cumbersome locking hardware and tools, and often apply uniform locking force that can either inadequately tighten or risk severing strings of different thicknesses.
Innovation Solution
A string locking device with a fixed base and rotative press mechanism that secures strings between a compression bed and a press, allowing variable pressure distribution across string thicknesses without external tools, and can be easily switched between locked and unlocked positions without removal from the guitar.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking nuts are permanently mounted with clamping blocks and locking screws, then string slippage is prevented and tuning is maintained, but the device complexity increases and string changes require removal of hardware and tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes locking screws and external tools from the system by integrating the locking function directly into the nut body through set screws that are permanently embedded in the nut structure. This extraction of removable hardware simplifies the device while maintaining the locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the nut body and locking mechanism into a single integrated unit. The set screws are embedded within the nut structure itself, merging the support function and locking function into one component rather than requiring separate clamping blocks and locking screws.
2Device complexity
If uniform locking force is applied to all strings, then the locking mechanism is simple, but thin strings may be damaged and thick strings may not be adequately secured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by providing individually adjustable set screws for each string position within the nut body. Each set screw can be independently adjusted to apply the appropriate locking force for that specific string's thickness and tension requirements, rather than applying uniform force to all strings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustability through the set screws that can be tuned to different positions and pressures. This allows the locking mechanism to adapt dynamically to different string configurations and thicknesses while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
3Ease of operation
If capos are used to lock strings, then string position is secured, but the device must be completely removed when not in use and cannot be permanently affixed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-installing the set screws and locking mechanism into the nut body during manufacturing. The locking structure is prepared in advance and permanently integrated into the nut, eliminating the need for installation and removal operations during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by making the locking mechanism an integral part of the nut structure itself. The nut provides its own locking capability through embedded set screws, eliminating the need for external devices like capos that require attachment and detachment operations.
4Reliability
If Floyd Rose locking nuts are used with clamping blocks, then string slippage is prevented, but dedicated tooling and procedures are required for tightening and string changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the need for external locking screws and specialized tools by integrating the locking function directly into the nut body through embedded set screws. This eliminates the separate clamping blocks and locking screw assembly/disassembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the nut self-sufficient by embedding the locking mechanism within its own structure. The set screws are permanently integrated into the nut body, allowing the nut to perform its own locking function without requiring external tools or separate clamping components.
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 quick and secure locking of guitar strings without locking hardware, accommodating varying string thicknesses and allowing for easy access during play or string changes, preventing detuning and string damage.
Implementation Method 1
a press disposed above the base, the press extending from a first end positioned at the first side of the guitar to a second end positioned at the second side of the guitar
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a locking tool for guitar strings and associated use methods. One embodiment provides a string locking device having a base affixed to a neck of the guitar. The base includes a compression bed bordered by proximal and distal sets of string channels, where the strings enter through the proximal channels, extend across the compression bed, and exit through the distal channels. The locking device also includes a press that is rotatively coupled to the base and a fastening mechanism configured to secure the press in a closed position relative to the base. The press may pivot between an open position in which the press is offset from the base and a closed position in which the press is secured against the compression bed such that the strings are secured between the press and the compression bed, preventing the strings from detuning during play. Other embodiments are disclosed.