Modular Piano Sensor Modules for Realistic Key and Pedal Feel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular piano keyboards fail to faithfully reproduce the experience of playing a real piano, lacking structural accuracy and sound quality, and do not provide the feeling of playing a real piano, while also being designed to cover a wide spectrum of instrument sounds.
Innovation Solution
A sensor module that can be configured as a piano keyboard or pedal module, allowing modular assembly to form a multi-octave piano system, with features like magnetized connectors, deformable membranes, and processing means to generate signals indicative of keystroke dynamics, connected via BLE-Midi format to reproduce sound and visual representations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modular piano keyboards are designed to cover a wide spectrum of instrument sounds, then versatility is improved, but sound quality and fidelity to real piano sound deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the piano keyboard into separate modular units (octave modules and pedal modules) that can be independently configured. Each module is designed with specific sensors and actuators to faithfully reproduce real piano characteristics, while the modular architecture allows users to assemble different configurations (1-7 octaves) based on their needs, thus maintaining high sound quality while providing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements different sensor types and configurations for different parts of the keyboard. White keys use one type of sensor while black keys use another, and each key is designed with specific mechanical properties to match real piano key characteristics. This localized optimization ensures that each part of the keyboard faithfully reproduces the feel and sound of a real piano.
2Device complexity
If modular piano keyboards use simplified key design to detect notes, then device complexity is reduced, but the feeling of playing a real piano deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical key mechanisms with electronic sensors (force sensors, capacitive sensors, or optical sensors) that detect key press events. This substitution simplifies the internal mechanics while maintaining the external appearance and feel of real piano keys, allowing users to experience playing a real piano without the complexity of traditional mechanical action mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs each key module to serve multiple functions: detecting note presses, measuring press velocity, detecting press depth, and providing tactile feedback. This multi-functionality is achieved through integrated sensor systems that can capture multiple parameters from a single key press, reducing the need for separate mechanical components while enhancing the playing experience.
3Ease of operation
If modular piano keyboards are designed for ease of transport, then ease of operation is improved, but structural accuracy and fidelity to real piano deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the piano into separable modules (octave modules and pedal modules) that can be easily transported and reassembled. Each module is self-contained with its own sensors, connectors, and structural support, allowing users to transport individual modules rather than a complete piano. The modular design maintains structural accuracy through precise connector interfaces and standardized mounting mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs magnetic connectors and snap-fit mechanisms that enable quick assembly and disassembly without requiring complex tools or precise alignment in multiple dimensions. The magnetic attraction provides automatic alignment, reducing the dimensional precision requirements during assembly while maintaining structural integrity when connected.
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 system provides a modular piano experience that faithfully reproduces the sound and feel of a real piano, allowing customizable configurations from one to seven octaves with pedals, enhancing user interaction and sound quality.
Implementation Method 1
at least one membrane positioned between the push button and the processing means, the membrane configured to deform under the effect of the push button pressure
Implementation Method 2
features like magnetized connectors
Data Source
AI summary
Different aspects of the invention implement a sensor module that can be configured as a keyboard module or as a pedal module, allowing to connect a plurality of keyboard and pedal modules to assemble a configuration to the user's liking, such as, for example, the usual configuration of an 87-key piano together with two pedals. The sensor module transmits information about detected key or pedal strokes to a computer application for playback, either aural or visual. At the same time, the sensor module allows, both in the keyboard module and pedal module configuration, to transmit the feeling of playing a real piano.