Vibrato String Retainer Bracket Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing Bigsby vibrato devices have a finicky installation process due to the orientation of string pins, which makes re-stringing cumbersome, and they offer a limited range of pitch change due to their shallow profile and radius of rotation.
Innovation Solution
A universal and inexpensive string attachment bracket with a shaped plate and distal end slots that repositions the string anchor points, allowing for easier string connection and increasing the rotational radius of the string bar, thereby broadening the tonal range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the string pins are oriented at a downward and forward angle to prevent string slippage, then string retention reliability is improved, but the ease of string installation deteriorates due to blind access from underneath the bar
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary tool - a specialized pick or awl with a curved tip - that mediates between the installer's hand and the string pin hole. This tool allows the installer to reach the blind pin hole from above the bar rather than from underneath, making the installation process much easier while maintaining the same pin orientation for string retention.
2Device complexity
If the vibrato device is mounted on the surface without routing a nesting location, then the device complexity and installation complexity are reduced, but the rotational radius is limited resulting in restricted pitch change range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the rotational motion from a two-dimensional planar rotation to a three-dimensional arc by allowing the string bar to rotate through a larger angle. The increased rotational radius is achieved by optimizing the mounting geometry and string routing path, enabling the string to trace a larger arc without requiring additional vertical space or complex nesting structures.
3Volume of moving object
If the string bar has a shallow profile to maintain compact size, then the device footprint is reduced, but the range of pitch change is limited by the radius of rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the string routing path dynamic rather than fixed. The string can be routed in different configurations and the string bar can rotate through a larger angular range, allowing the system to achieve a broader pitch change range while maintaining a compact shallow profile. The dynamics of string tension and routing adapt as the bar rotates through its extended range of motion.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a bracket, which can be easily installed to a vibrato device having a string bar with projecting string pins. The bracket facilitates re-stringing the strings through slots which are conveniently placed and readily accessible to the installer.