Sound Source Module Inclining Mechanism for Electronic Musical Instruments

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing electronic musical instruments face difficulties in quickly exchanging sound source modules during performances due to cumbersome screw-based separation mechanisms and complex tilt mechanisms, which are costly and require tools, making it hard to easily attach and detach modules.

Innovation Solution

A sound source module and keyboard module design featuring engaging portions on the edge portion, where the sound source module can be easily inclined and attached/detached using a simple structure, with a spring-energized shaft portion for easy installation and removal, and a curved edge shape to reduce interference, allowing for tool-free operation and simplified handling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a screw-based fixing mechanism is used to attach the sound source module to the keyboard module, then the modules can be securely fixed together, but the operation becomes troublesome and requires tools for attachment and detachment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing strengthVSAvoidease of attachment and detachment
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing mechanism is segmented into multiple engaging portions distributed around the circumference of the sound source module. These engaging portions can be independently engaged with corresponding portions on the keyboard module, allowing for tool-free attachment by simply pushing the modules together while maintaining secure fixation through distributed engagement points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The screw-based mechanical fastening system is replaced with a push-to-engage mechanism featuring protruding and recessed engaging portions. This substitution eliminates the need for rotational fastening operations and tools, transforming the attachment process into a simple linear insertion motion that is both secure and easily reversible.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a tilt mechanism is used to support the rack mount member inclined relative to the keyboard module, then the sound source module can be inclined at a favored position, but the structure becomes more complicated and costly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinclination adjustmentVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tilting function is merged with the attachment mechanism itself. The engaging portions are positioned and dimensioned such that when the sound source module is pushed onto the keyboard module, it automatically assumes an inclined position. The attachment and tilting actions are combined into a single operation, eliminating the need for separate tilt adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The engaging portions serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide mechanical fixation to prevent separation, establish the inclined angle, and guide the alignment during attachment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated tilt mechanism components, reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 easy attachment, detachment, and inclination of the sound source and keyboard modules, facilitating quick module exchanges without tools, reducing complexity and cost, and improving usability during performances.

Implementation Method 1

a spring energizes a shaft portion disposed on the end in an axial direction outward in the longitudinal direction of the edge portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentEP3136380B1Electronic musical instrument
Publication Date: 2018.06.13 ROLAND CORP
  • EP3136380B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3136380B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3136380B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

Provided is a sound source module capable of inclining and capable of being easily attached and detached by a simple structure. A sound source module 10 includes engaging portions 40 and 48 provided spaced from each other on both ends of an edge portion 14 in a longitudinal direction. A keyboard module 50 is removably engaged by the engaging portions 40 and 48. Thus, the sound source module 10 can be easily attached to and detached from the keyboard module 50. The engaging portions 40 and 48 are located on the same straight line. Thus, by a front portion 11 being supported in an inclined state relative to the keyboard module 50 with the engaging portions 40 and 48 as an axis, the sound source module 10 can be inclined relative to the keyboard module 50.