Instrument Plectrum with Embedded Sensors for Technique Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing instrument picks with electronic circuitry are not suitable for providing feedback on technique during practice sessions, as they can be inconvenient in size or shape, making them difficult to hold and maneuver, and are not designed for training or instruction.
Innovation Solution
A guitar pick with embedded contact sensors to detect string contact and pressure sensors to measure holding pressure, combined with a data transmitter to send information to an external device for providing feedback on technique, including holding pressure, picking angle, and practice time, via a visual or audio display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If existing instrument picks with electronic circuitry are used, then sensing capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to inconvenient size and shape making them difficult to hold and maneuver
Solution Approach 1:
The pick body is constructed as a thin, flexible structure that can be easily held and maneuvered like a traditional pick, while still accommodating embedded sensors and electronic circuitry within its layered construction
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If existing instrument picks with electronic circuitry are used, then sensing capability is improved, but device complexity increases making them unsuitable for training and instruction
Solution Approach 1:
The pick is designed to serve multiple functions: traditional string plucking, technique sensing through embedded sensors, real-time feedback provision, and statistical tracking. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate devices into a single universal tool for both performance and training
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the pick body with embedded sensors, feedback mechanisms, and data transmission capabilities into a single integrated unit, reducing overall system complexity compared to using separate sensing devices and feedback systems
3Loss of information
If feedback mechanism is added to provide technique information, then information completeness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pick incorporates sensors that detect picking technique and provide real-time feedback to the user through visual or audible signals, enabling immediate correction and improvement of playing technique while maintaining a relatively simple overall device architecture
Data Source
AI summary
A plectrum or pick for an instrument is provided. The pick includes: a pick body having a central portion configured to be held by a user and a tip configured to contact an instrument string; at least one sensor arranged on or embedded in the pick body and configured to sense information representative of a pluck of the string with the pick body; and at least one pressure sensor arranged on or embedded in the pick body. The at least one pressure sensor can be configured to sense pressure between the pick body and the user's hand. The pick also includes a wireless transmitter configured to obtain information from the respective sensors and to transmit the obtained information to a remote device. A system for providing feedback to a user regarding picking techniques including an instrument pick and feedback device is also provide.