Vibrato Mounting Adapter for Non-Invasive Guitar Modification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mounting vibrato devices on guitars require drilling new holes, permanently modifying the instrument and compromising its resale value, while also potentially altering the string dynamics and tonal quality.
Innovation Solution
A two-plate adapter apparatus that utilizes existing mounting holes from the stop tailpiece and strap anchor, allowing for flush mounting of a vibrato device without additional drilling, and positions the hold-down bar to replicate the original string dynamics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If new holes are drilled to mount the vibrato device, then the mounting is secure, but the guitar is permanently defaced and resale value is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
A mounting adapter plate is introduced as an intermediary component between the guitar body and the vibrato device. The adapter mounts to existing holes in the guitar using original fasteners, providing secure attachment points for the vibrato device without requiring new holes in the guitar body. This mediator resolves the contradiction by enabling reliable mounting while avoiding permanent damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting adapter plate serves multiple functions: it provides secure mounting points for the vibrato device, utilizes existing holes and fasteners in the guitar, and preserves the original guitar finish. By making the mounting system universal and adaptable to existing guitar configurations, it achieves reliable mounting without compromising the instrument.
2Ease of manufacture
If the vibrato device is mounted far rearward of the bridge, then installation is simplified, but the string bend angle becomes too shallow causing strings to drift from saddle location
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting adapter plate is designed with specific dimensional parameters that position the vibrato device at the correct location relative to the bridge. By carefully controlling the distance from the bridge to the adapter mounting points and the adapter thickness, the hold-down bar is positioned to create the proper string bend angle, ensuring strings remain securely seated in their saddles while maintaining installation simplicity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the hold-down bar position is changed from the stop tailpiece location, then the vibrato device can be mounted, but the string dynamics and tonal quality are altered
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting adapter plate is designed to replicate the original stop tailpiece location and geometry. By copying the precise positioning and orientation of the original tailpiece mounting points, the adapter ensures that the vibrato device's hold-down bar assumes the same spatial relationship to the strings and bridge as the original tailpiece, thereby preserving the intended string dynamics and tonal characteristics while enabling vibrato device installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A vibrato mounting apparatus for mounting a vibrato device, such as a Bigsby Vibrato, to an electric guitar without making changes to the guitar body is herein disclosed. The vibrato device replaces the stop tailpiece of the guitar leaving available mounting holes for the mounting apparatus. The vibrato device is then mounted to the apparatus without the need to alter the guitar by drilling holes. The mounting apparatus locates the vibrato device on the guitar in a manner to maintain the critical bend angle of the guitar strings over the bridge. With a minimalist profile, the mounting apparatus is essentially concealed from view and presents a small burden in weight to the guitar. An alternative embodiment provides a method for mounting the apparatus so as to preserve the design string dynamics.