US4584923A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Self tuning tail piece for string instruments
Assignee: Individual
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Filing: 1985-03-05
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Granted: 1986-04-29
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Expires: 2005-03-05
Abstract
Abstract An automatic tuning device for guitars and string instruments in general having a string tensioning mechanism adapted to vary the tension of the strings from the tail piece in response to the differences detected between the reference signals and the string signal produced. A reversible D.C. motor provides the rotational motion that is translated into a proportional linear motion that is used to either pull or release each one of the strings.
Inventors
- 👤 Gregory B. Minnick
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-26 20:18
CPC Classifications
G; G10; G10D; G10D3/00; G10D3/14; G10G; G10G7/00; G10G7/02
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 4
Claim 1
Independent Claim
197 words
An automatic tuning device for instruments having a plurality of strings and transducer means for converting the accoustic energy produced said strings to an equivalent electric signal, comprising: A. a plurality of means for generating a plurality of reference tones corresponding to each of said plurality of strings; B. a plurality of means for comparing said reference tones to the tones produced by said strings through said transducer means, including means for producing an electrical output signal when said tones do not match; C. a plurality of motor means activated by said output signal, including a corresponding plurality of means for enabling one of said motor means at a time; and D. a plurality of string tensioning means mechanically connected to said strings at the tail piece of said instrument and activated by said motor means and said tensioning means including a threaded sleeve member rigidly mounted to a shaft of said motor means and a moving nut member pivotally connected through linkage arm means to the end of one of said strings so that its tension may be varied in direct proportion to rotation of said shaft; E. motor driving means connected to said motor means.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
197 words
An automatic tuning device for instruments having a plurality of strings and transducer means for converting the accoustic energy produced said strings to an equivalent electric signal, comprising: A. a plurality of means for generating a plurality of reference tones corresponding to each of said plurality of strings; B. a plurality of means for comparing said reference tones to the tones produced by said strings through said transducer means, including means for producing an electrical output signal when said tones do not match; C. a plurality of motor means activated by said output signal, including a corresponding plurality of means for enabling one of said motor means at a time; and D. a plurality of string tensioning means mechanically connected to said strings at the tail piece of said instrument and activated by said motor means and said tensioning means including a threaded sleeve member rigidly mounted to a shaft of said motor means and a moving nut member pivotally connected through linkage arm means to the end of one of said strings so that its tension may be varied in direct proportion to rotation of said shaft; E. motor driving means connected to said motor means.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
29 words
The device set forth in claim 1 wherein said linkage arm means further includes a sliding member traveling along said shaft and being pivotally connected to said arm means.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
41 words
The device set forth in claim 2 wherein said means for enabling one of said motor means at a time includes one normally open pushbutton switch and said switch being interlocked with the other switches of said plurality of enabling means.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1989-04-28 | 1989-10-28 | 1990-04-29 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1993-04-28 | 1993-10-28 | 1994-04-29 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1997-04-28 | 1997-10-28 | 1998-04-29 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |