Multi-Tone Cymbal Radial Segmentation and Relief Holes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern cymbals have a limited range of tonal frequencies, requiring percussionists to use multiple cymbals with different characteristics to achieve a broader range of sounds, which is inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The development of multi-tone cymbals that utilize varying ratios of tin to copper in bell bronze alloys and radial segmentation to create multiple pitches, allowing for the production of a single cymbal that can produce a range of tones by adjusting segment lengths and widths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard single-toned cymbal is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the tonal range is limited requiring multiple cymbals
Solution Approach 1:
The cymbal is divided into multiple radial segments separated by cuts extending from the bell edge toward the outer edge. Each segment can be independently tuned to produce different pitches, allowing a single cymbal to function as multiple cymbals with different tonal characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
Different segments of the cymbal are given different properties through varied cut lengths, segment widths, and selective thinning. This allows each segment to produce a specific pitch while maintaining the overall integrity of the cymbal structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If radial cuts are made to create segments, then multiple pitches can be produced, but stress concentration and potential cracking increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cuts that initially create stress concentration points are resolved by adding relief holes at the ends of each cut. These holes eliminate the sharp stress concentration that would cause cracking, while preserving the pitch-differentiating function of the segments.
Solution Approach 2:
Relief holes are strategically placed at the endpoints of radial cuts before the cymbal is struck. This preemptive measure prevents stress buildup and potential cracking at the most vulnerable points in the segmented structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cymbals are used to achieve broader tonal frequencies, then the tonal range is sufficient, but the number of instruments and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple cymbals with different tonal characteristics are merged into a single multi-toned cymbal through radial segmentation. Each segment functions as an independent tuning zone, allowing the player to access a broad tonal range from one instrument rather than requiring multiple separate cymbals.
Solution Approach 2:
The cymbal is designed to perform multiple functions within a single instrument. Different segments can be struck to produce various pitches, allowing the cymbal to serve as a crash cymbal, a ride cymbal, or a splash cymbal depending on which segments are activated.
4Measurement precision
If segment widths and cut lengths are varied to tune pitches, then precise pitch control is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pitch of each segment is controlled by adjusting multiple parameters including cut length, segment width, and local thickness. This provides multiple degrees of freedom for tuning, allowing precise pitch control while distributing the manufacturing precision requirements across several adjustable parameters rather than relying on a single critical dimension.
Data Source
AI summary
Multi tonal cymbals are provided having a metallic structure, the structure having a plurality of radial cuts therein defining a plurality of segments, each of the plurality of segments providing a tone different than another of the plurality of segments. The different tone may be achieved with radial cuts having different dimensions and/or placed on different locations on the cymbal to create different shaped/sized segments.