Automatic operation of percussion instruments
OwnerShelby Brinsoninventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The actuation of a percussion instrument, such as a high-hat cymbal set, is automatically implemented without requiring the performer (drummer) to use his (her) foot. This allows the drummer to use both feet for other instruments, such as for double-footed bass drumming. An automatic mechanism operates in either a tracking or "metronome" or a "track" mode to strike the instrument in a variety of beats, rhythms and tempos. The automatic mechanism may attach to a footpedal for operating the instrument, or may be connected directly to the instrument.
Claims26
An automatic percussion instrument operating mechanism comprising:
- an actuator operable to exert a force over a distance;
- means for sequentially actuating the actuator;
- means for mechanically linking the actuator to a percussion instrument so that the actuations of the actuator cause a corresponding sequence of sounds to emit from the percussion instrument;
- and
- means for causing the actuator to operate at a tempo established by another percussion instrument.
An automatic percussion instrument operating mechanism comprising:
- an actuator operable to exert a force over a distance;
- means for sequentially actuating the actuator;
- means for mechanically linking the actuator to a percussion instrument so that the actuations of the actuator cause a corresponding sequence of sounds to emit from the percussion instrument;
- and
- means for retro-fitting the actuator to a footpedal.
Method of operating a percussion instrument, comprising:
- connecting a mechanism to the percussion instrument;
- causing the mechanism to automatically operate the percussion instrument;
- and
- causing the actuator to operate at a tempo established by an other percussion instrument.
Method of operating a percussion instrument, comprising:
- connecting a mechanism to the percussion instrument;
- causing the mechanism to automatically operate the percussion instrument;
- and
- causing the actuator to emphasize certain beats of a tempo.
Mechanism, adapted in use to automatically operate a percussion instrument, comprising:
- an actuator;
- means for operating the actuator;
- and
- means for operating the actuator at a tempo established by operation of another percussion instrument.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.