One-Handed Capo for Raised String Instruments

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing capos for Resophonic guitars and other raised stringed instruments require multiple adjustments and often two hands to operate, and previous designs are not adaptable for instruments like the dobro due to their clamping mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A capo with a sliding wedge adjuster that allows for infinite one-handed pressure adjustment without tools, using a bar member, sliding link assembly, and compressible resilient sleeves to securely clamp strings, enabling easy installation and adjustment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a lever mechanism is used to clamp strings, then the capo can be operated with one hand, but the pressure adjustment is limited and requires tools for fine-tuning

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveone-handed operationVSAvoidpressure adjustment mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional lever mechanism with a sliding wedge adjuster system. The wedge-shaped component converts horizontal sliding motion into vertical clamping force, eliminating the need for complex lever arms and tool-based adjustment mechanisms while enabling continuous pressure variation through simple linear motion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The sliding wedge adjuster allows continuous variation of the clamping pressure parameter by changing the position of the wedge along its inclined surface. This provides infinite adjustability of the pressure applied to the strings, replacing the discrete pressure levels of lever mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If multiple adjustment mechanisms are used, then pressure control is precise, but the installation and adjustment require both hands and multiple steps

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepressure control precisionVSAvoidinstallation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the adjustment mechanism and the clamping function into a single integrated sliding wedge assembly. The wedge simultaneously provides both the adjustment capability and the clamping action, eliminating the need for separate adjustment mechanisms and reducing the operation to a single sliding motion that can be performed with one hand.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a downward clamping mechanism is used, then the capo works for standard guitars, but it cannot be used on raised string instruments like dobro

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstrument compatibilityVSAvoidclamping mechanism design

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the traditional downward clamping approach by using an upward clamping mechanism. The sliding wedge pushes the bar upward against the strings from below, which is the opposite direction of conventional capos. This inversion allows the capo to effectively clamp strings on raised string instruments where the strings are positioned above the fretboard.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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

Enables effortless, one-handed operation and infinite pressure adjustment of capos on Resophonic guitars and similar instruments, improving usability and adaptability by eliminating the need for tools and secondary mechanisms.

Implementation Method 1

a sliding wedge adjuster allowing infinite one-handed adjustment of the pressure of strings against the bar member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Implementation Method 2

compressible resilient sleeves to securely clamp strings

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9196231B2Capo for a dobro, slide guitar, Hawaiian guitar, or similar raised string instrument

Publication Date: 2015.11.24 MCCLARY CHARLES FORREST

AI summary

A capo for an instrument having a plurality of strings elevated above a fretboard such as a dobro, slide guitar, Hawaiian guitar, or similar raised stringed instrument. This capo uses a sliding wedge adjuster that is installed in the upper milled slot of bar member. The sliding link assembly is installed thru the sliding wedge adjuster slot, into the hole in the center of bar member aligned properly. The string tension bar is installed in sliding link assembly hole and cushion tubes are installed on tension rod, each side of sliding link assembly. The sliding wedge adjuster raises the sliding link assembly as sliding wedge adjuster is pushed inward into bar member. This action compresses the strings to bottom of bar member. This sliding wedge function is unique to this improved capo.