Rotatable Neck Mechanism for Dual-Function Guitar and Bass
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional designs for stringed musical instruments that combine guitar and bass functions are cumbersome, ergonomically unsuitable, and require significant effort to switch between playing modes, often resulting in unnatural playing experiences for trained musicians.
Innovation Solution
A single-body stringed musical instrument with a selectively rotatable neck portion featuring opposed fret boards for a four-string bass guitar and six-string guitar, allowing seamless switching between functions via an ergonomically designed handle and internal shaft and bearing system, maintaining a conventional appearance and playability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate guitar and bass guitar neck assemblies are combined on the same body, then both guitar and bass functions are provided, but the instrument becomes heavier and less ergonomically playable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines both guitar and bass fretboards into a single neck assembly rather than using separate necks. The neck contains both a six-string guitar fretboard and a four-string bass fretboard integrated together, reducing the overall weight compared to having two separate neck assemblies while maintaining dual functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The single neck assembly is designed to serve multiple functions by incorporating both guitar and bass playing capabilities. The neck can be configured to play either guitar or bass functions, making it a universal component that replaces what would traditionally require two separate instruments or necks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate guitar and bass guitar neck assemblies are combined on the same body, then both guitar and bass functions are provided, but ergonomics and playability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The neck assembly is designed to be rotatable, allowing dynamic repositioning between guitar and bass playing positions. This rotational capability enables the player to easily switch between functions while maintaining ergonomic comfort, as the neck can be oriented optimally for whichever instrument function is currently being used.
3Adaptability or versatility
If opposed instrument fret boards are used with unconventional fret spacing, then both sides can be played independently, but the playing becomes arduous and requires removing the strumming hand from the playing area
Solution Approach 1:
Each fretboard within the single neck assembly is designed with its own optimized fret spacing and string configuration appropriate for its specific function. The guitar portion has standard guitar fret spacing while the bass portion has optimized bass fret spacing, allowing each to be played independently with conventional technique without requiring the player to adjust their hand position or playing style.
4Adaptability or versatility
If discrete separate string musical instruments are contained in the same assembly, then both instruments are provided, but considerable time and effort are required to change from one instrument to the other
Solution Approach 1:
The neck assembly incorporates a rotational mechanism that allows rapid switching between guitar and bass functions by simply rotating the neck to the appropriate position. This dynamic repositioning eliminates the need for time-consuming manual reconfiguration or physical changes, enabling instant transitions between instruments during performance.
Data Source
AI summary
A combination stringed musical instrument, such as a four string electric bass and a six string electric guitar, is described. The combination stringed musical instrument includes a single neck portion with opposed fret boards formed or disposed on either side or major face of the neck portion. Accessibility to either stringed musical instrument may be accomplished by neck portion rotation, relative to the body portion, facilitated by an ergonomically placed and designed handle assembly. User initiated neck portion rotation may be facilitated by an internal shaft and bearing set, interconnecting the neck portion and the body portion. Manipulation of the handle may cause a positive neck portion position placement and neck portion fixation via retention hardware. The combined instrument presents a conventional-appearing electric guitar/bass guitar.