Magnetic Plectrum Holder Orientation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Musicians face discomfort and risk of losing their plectrum when replacing it on a holder due to incorrect orientation and repulsion forces, which can hinder performance and cause accidental drops.

Innovation Solution

A plectrum holder design using two permanent magnets with the same polarity on the plate and two opposing polarity magnets on the plectrum ensures attraction in a predetermined orientation, eliminating repulsion and facilitating easy retrieval and placement, with optional features like a fibrous material for noise reduction and adjustable ring for secure fit.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If two permanent magnets with opposite polarities are used on the plectrum holder and plectrum to enable predetermined orientation, then the plectrum can be retained in a unique position, but repulsion force occurs when orientation is incorrect causing discomfort and risk of loss

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveretention reliabilityVSAvoidrepulsion force

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the conventional magnet arrangement by placing magnets with the same polarity (both North or both South) facing each other between the plectrum holder and plectrum. This inversion eliminates repulsion forces while maintaining attraction through the magnetic field gradient, solving the problem of incorrect orientation repulsion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the magnetic field parameters by using magnets of different strengths (first magnet stronger than second magnet) to create an asymmetric magnetic field gradient. This parameter change ensures that attraction occurs only in the correct orientation while eliminating repulsion in incorrect orientations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If strong permanent magnets are used to ensure reliable retention, then the plectrum is securely held, but the repulsion force in incorrect orientation becomes excessively strong hindering the musician

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveretention strengthVSAvoidreplacement ease

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses magnets of different strengths (first magnet stronger than second magnet) to create an asymmetric magnetic field. This parameter change ensures strong retention in correct orientation while preventing excessive repulsion in incorrect orientations, making replacement easy for musicians.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Weight of moving object

If the plectrum is made very light for comfort, then it is easier to handle, but the repulsion force from strong magnets causes accidental drops

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplectrum weightVSAvoidretention stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Weight of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses magnets of different strengths to create an asymmetric magnetic field gradient that provides strong retention for lightweight plectrums in correct orientation while eliminating repulsion forces that could cause accidental drops during replacement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 solution provides reliable and comfortable retention of the plectrum, reducing the risk of loss and discomfort during use, allowing for seamless transitions between playing methods without interrupting the musician's performance.

Implementation Method 1

retaining means by magnetization of the plectrum along its second main surface on the receiving surface; at least two first permanent magnets secured to the plate, said at least two first permanent magnets each having their magnetic pole of a first and same polarity oriented towards the receiving surface, at least two second permanent magnets secured to the plectrum, said at least two second permanent magnets each having their magnetic pole of a second and same polarity oriented towards the second main surface

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP3910621B1Device for making the strings of an instrument vibrate

Publication Date: 2023.02.15 PELLET LANGLAIS JEAN-PIERRE

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Figure 5~6

AI summary

Device (1) for vibrating the strings of a stringed instrument, comprising: - a plectrum (2) comprising a first principal surface (2a) and comprising a second principal surface opposite to the first principal surface (2a), - a plectrum holder (3) comprising engagement means (4) suitable for receiving a finger of a user, and comprising a plate (5) with a receiving surface (5a), - means for retaining by magnetization (6) of the plectrum (2) according to its second principal surface on the receiving surface (5a), comprising at least two first permanent magnets (7a, 7b) integral with the plate (5) and at least two second permanent magnets (8a, 8b) integral with the plectrum (2).