Programmable Percussion Pedal With Nested Fill Sequences

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing percussion pedals lack the ability to be fully customizable for multiple and distinct sequential fills in cyclic percussion rhythm sequences, and do not integrate seamlessly with standard foot pedal daisy chains or offer programmable memory for sound modification.

Innovation Solution

A foot-operated, computer-programmable percussion pedal with internal memory for storing and transitioning between pre-selected primary rhythms and their associated fills, featuring a MIDI sound generator, daisy chain compatibility, and controls for tempo, style, and volume adjustment, allowing for complex rhythm sequences and customizable sound production.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a percussion pedal is designed with basic functionality only, then the device complexity is low and manufacturing cost is reduced, but the adaptability and versatility for multiple distinct sequential fills and customizable rhythms is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecustomizability for multiple sequential fillsVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The percussion pedal is designed to perform multiple functions within a single device: it can store multiple primary rhythms, execute different fills (single, double, triple, quadruple), transition between rhythms, and integrate with MIDI systems. This multi-functionality approach allows the pedal to provide extensive adaptability for various percussion patterns without requiring multiple separate devices, thereby improving versatility while controlling complexity through integration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a hierarchical structure where fills are nested within primary rhythms, and multiple fills can be nested within each rhythm sequence. The system allows for layered complexity: basic rhythm patterns serve as containers for fill patterns, which themselves can contain multiple variations. This nesting approach enables comprehensive rhythmic control while organizing complexity in a manageable, structured manner.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If computer programmable features and memory are added to the percussion pedal, then the ability to store and transition between multiple rhythms and fills is improved, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprogrammable memory for rhythm storageVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical memory systems with semiconductor-based computer programmable memory. This substitution allows for high-capacity storage of multiple rhythms and fills using integrated circuits rather than mechanical switches or relays. The computer programmable approach enables dense packing of rhythmic data in minimal space, reducing the physical complexity and manufacturing cost compared to traditional mechanical memory systems while providing extensive programmability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Measurement precision

If multiple controls and selectors are added to the percussion pedal, then the control precision for tempo, style, and volume adjustment is improved, but the ease of operation and device complexity are affected

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol precision for tempo and styleVSAvoidease of operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The percussion pedal incorporates automatic functions that reduce the need for manual adjustment of multiple controls. The system can automatically maintain tempo, style, and volume settings once programmed, and can automatically transition between rhythms and fills based on programmed sequences. This self-service capability allows precise control through programming rather than continuous manual adjustment, improving ease of operation while maintaining high control precision through the computer programmable system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8324494B1Synthesized percussion pedal

Publication Date: 2012.12.04 INTELLITERRAN

AI summary

A MIDI signal generator adapted for foot pedal operated percussion synthesis having, inter alia, independent volume, reverb, loop, fill, tempo and style controls. An important feature is the ability to cycle through a series of pre-selected rhythm loops. Each rhythm loop further has a subset of associated fills that are initiated with specific touches to the foot pedal. The device is computer integrated to match any of the stored rhythm loops with any subset of fills.