String vibration frequency altering shape
AssigneeUniversity of South Florida
InventorsIsmet Handzic, Kyle B. Reed
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The present invention is a novel variable tension string instrument that relies on a kinetic shape to actively alter the tension of a fixed length taut string. A mathematical model was derived that relates the two-dimensional kinetic shape equation to the string's physical and dynamic parameters. With this model, an automated instrument was designed and constructed to play frequencies within predicted and recognizable frequencies along with programmed melodies.
Claims16
A variable tension instrument comprising:
- a kinetic shape object, wherein the kinetic shape object further includes:
- two lateral sides creating a width and a contacting perimeter;
- an aperture through the two lateral surfaces at a predetermined location on the kinetic shape object and in an orthogonal orientation with respect to the contacting perimeter of the kinetic shape object, wherein the aperture is adapted to receive an axle;
- a string having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is secured at a stationary point and the second end is secured to the axle thereby creating a tension in the string;
- a predetermined vertical force imposed on the axle;
- a platform on which the contacting perimeter of the kinetic shape object is disposed;
- and
- the kinetic shape object rotatable about the axle, thereby altering the tension in the string as the kinetic shape object rotates.
A method of using the variable tension kinetic shape string instrument comprising:
- securing a first end of a fixed length string at a stationary point;
- securing a second end of the string to an axle passing through a kinetic shape object, the kinetic shape object further including:
- two lateral sides creating a width and a contacting perimeter;
- and
- an aperture through the two lateral sides at a predetermined location on the kinetic shape object and in an orthogonal orientation with respect to the contacting perimeter of the kinetic shape object, wherein the aperture is adapted to receive an axle;
- applying a vertical force on the axle;
- orienting the kinetic shape object, such that a tension force in the string and the vertical force on the axle allow the kinetic shape object to rest in a static equilibrium;
- rotating the kinetic shape object, such that the tension force in the string changes;
- and
- producing a vibration in the string creating varying frequencies based on the tension in the string.
A kinetic shape instrument, comprising:
- two lateral sides creating a width and a contacting perimeter, wherein the contacting perimeter has a nautilus-like shape;
- and
- an aperture through the two lateral surfaces at a predetermined location on the kinetic shape instrument and in an orthogonal orientation with respect to the contacting perimeter of the kinetic shape instrument, wherein the aperture is adapted to receive an axle.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.