Musical Instrument Intonation Detection Using Vibration and Audio Signals

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a high-level and high-precision method for intonation detection and tuning of musical instruments to support the tuning requirements of customized musical instruments, as musical instrument repair professionals require flexible design and precise manufacturing to meet individual customer needs.

Innovation Solution

A device and method for intonation detection and tuning of musical instruments using a vibration signal acquisition module, audio signal acquisition module, processing modules, and a display module to compare acquired signals with standard signals for intonation and timber adjustment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional tuning methods are used, then the tuning process is simple, but the measurement precision and intonation detection accuracy are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintonation detection accuracyVSAvoidtuning device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the tuning device into separate functional modules: a vibration signal acquisition module with multiple sensors positioned at different locations, an audio signal acquisition module, a signal processing module, and a display module. This segmentation allows each module to specialize in specific detection tasks, improving overall measurement precision while making the complex system more manageable and maintainable

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces signal processing modules as intermediaries between the sensor acquisitions and the final tuning display. These modules include vibration signal processing and audio signal processing that filter, analyze, and compare signals against reference data, enabling high-precision intonation detection without requiring direct complex hardware connections

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple signal acquisition modules are used, then the detection capability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection capabilityVSAvoidmodule structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs signal processing modules that can handle both vibration signals and audio signals through unified processing algorithms. The control module coordinates both acquisition modules and integrates their data, allowing the system to detect various intonation issues (string tension, pipe length, key alignment) using a single integrated platform rather than separate specialized devices

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the signal processing module continuously compares acquired signals against reference data and provides real-time guidance to the user. The display module shows deviation information that guides adjustment, creating a closed-loop system that improves detection effectiveness while simplifying the user interface

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

The device and method facilitate precise tuning by comparing acquired signals with standard signals, enabling easy intonation and timber adjustment, making the process convenient and effective.

Implementation Method 1

a vibration sensor and an acoustic sensor which are distributed and/or discrete

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

an acoustic sensor which are distributed and/or discrete

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMicrophone transduction:

Data Source

PatentUS20250225961A1Device and method for intonation detection and tuning of musical instruments
Publication Date: 2025.07.10 HONG CHENCHAO
  • US20250225961A1 patent drawing
  • US20250225961A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a device and method for intonation detection and tuning of musical instruments. The device includes a vibration signal acquisition module, an audio signal acquisition module, a vibration signal processing module, an audio signal processing module and a display module connected with a control module, the vibration signal acquisition module is configured to acquire vibration signals, the vibration signal processing module is configured to perform intonation comparison according to the acquired vibration signals and pre-stored standard vibration signals, the audio signal acquisition module is configured to acquire audio signals, and the audio signal processing module is configured to process the audio signals, perform intonation comparison according to the processed signals and pre-stored standard audio signals, and display comparison results through data and waveforms. The provided device and method can detect musical instrument intonations based on vibration signals and audio signals, thereby reducing professional and experience requirements for tuner.