Modular Instrument Support Apparatus for Weight Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Musical instrument players face discomfort and tension due to the need to hold instruments by friction, which is unstable and not suitable for acoustic instruments, and existing solutions are costly, not interchangeable, and prone to damage.
Innovation Solution
A modular apparatus with a neck member and shoulder members at 90 degrees, featuring support attachments and adjustable straps to distribute the instrument's weight across multiple body areas, providing comfort and stability without affecting the instrument's sound.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the instrument is held by friction through squeezing between chin and shoulder, then the instrument can be supported, but significant tension and discomfort occur around the shoulder, neck and back region
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into multiple independent components: a neck member that contacts the instrument neck, shoulder members that distribute weight across the shoulders, and back members that provide rear support. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function while collectively providing stable support with reduced tension on any single body part.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-point friction contact (chin and shoulder) to a distributed multi-point contact system. The neck member, shoulder members, and back members create a three-dimensional support structure that spreads the instrument's weight across multiple body areas, fundamentally changing how the instrument is supported from a one-dimensional friction grip to a multi-dimensional distributed load system.
2Ease of operation
If reconstruction of the instrument body is performed to address support problems, then comfort is improved, but the sound quality is affected and the instrument cannot be used for acoustic performances
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of modifying the instrument itself, the invention introduces an intermediary support system consisting of the neck member, shoulder members, and back members. These intermediary components bear the weight and provide support, allowing the instrument to maintain its original acoustic structure and sound quality while the user experiences improved comfort through the mediating support apparatus.
3Reliability
If tension-based techniques are used to support acoustic instruments, then the instrument can be supported, but the techniques are inherently unstable and risk damaging the instrument
Solution Approach 1:
The support system uses counterbalancing principles where the neck member, shoulder members, and back members are positioned to create opposing forces that counteract the instrument's weight. The shoulder members specifically provide upward support force that counteracts the downward gravitational force on the instrument, creating a stable equilibrium that reduces the risk of damage compared to tension-based techniques.
4Reliability
If existing support techniques are used, then the instrument can be supported, but multiple tools are required and the system is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple support functions into a unified integrated system. The neck member, shoulder members, and back members are designed as coordinated components that work together as a single support apparatus, eliminating the need for multiple separate tools or complex assemblies while maintaining reliable instrument support capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular apparatus having at least two connecting members substantially at right angles from each other for self-supported wielding of musical instruments. The modular apparatus is worn over at least one shoulder and around the back of the user's neck while it is detachably connected to a musical instrument, such as a violin. The musical instrument is detachably connected to the modular apparatus via a support attachment, support, strap and fastening mechanism. The plurality of members allows even distribution of pressure and tension throughout the upper body caused by supporting and playing the musical instrument.