CN1845775B - Multi-Sound System Including Dynamics Controller for Amplified Guitars - Google Patents

Abstract

The proposed invention is a portable multi-sound effect system that provides a new and unique solution for processing the electronic audio signals produced by a guitar. The innovation according to the present invention is to control and process the electrical signals produced by an amplified guitar, such as an electric guitar, a bass guitar, an acoustic guitar or a classical guitar, by attaching a signal processing unit and a touch-sensitive dynamic control unit to the front panel of the guitar body.

Description

Multi-Sound System Including Dynamics Controller for Amplified Guitars

Background technique

The invention relates to the field of signal processing units that process and manipulate electrical audio signals produced by an amplified guitar. More particularly, the present invention relates to a signal processing unit including a touch-sensitive dynamic control unit mounted on a guitar to control, manipulate and process up to three-dimensional sound effect parameters in real time and conveniently while playing the guitar . the

Although the electric guitar allows only the most basic aspects of changing the musical sound (e.g., pitch, volume, shifting between pickups) through the use of outdated analog technology, the electric guitarist does need to create an unlimited number of the sound of music. Therefore, in order to improve the sound, guitarists are used to adding various signal processor accessories between the guitar and the guitar amplifier. These signal processor accessories are called "effects", "stompbox effects", "pedals ” or “Multi Effects”. the

Long list of sound effects includes Overdrive, Distortion, Blur, Compression, Limiting, Expansion, Gating, Graphic Equalizer, Chorus, Drift, Phaser, Wah, Pitch, Phaser, Rotary Speaker, Tremolo, Vibrato , vibraphone, talk, delay effects, space effects and various types of simulation effects (which implement simulation of different preamps, amps, guitars, cabinets, pickups and stomp boxes). The contribution of these sound effects to the music industry is significant. These sound effects appear in most modern popular music and have a huge influence on the style of the music. And, guitar sound effects can even create musical styles. For example, hard and heavy rock styles cannot be played without adding distortion to the guitar tone. the

Signal processors also enable guitarists to simulate the sound of different types of environments (rooms, halls, studios, parks, etc.) or to simulate the sounds produced by different types of amplifiers. By using a multi-effects unit, guitarists can emulate different types of amps, guitars, and stomp boxes without having to buy them, saving a lot of money. The possibilities in this field are endless. By using effects, guitarists can create a wider range of sounds, which add dimension to music so that even a dull, uninspired sound can instantly come alive. the

Thanks in large part to sound-processing improvements and electronic miniaturization, multi-effects units have become reliable and effective tools for the modern guitarist. The modern electric guitarist is exposed to and influenced by technological advances in the global musical field. Correspondingly, modern electric guitarists not only accept new technologies humbly, but also seek and demand new features, new effects and richer quality sounds. the

In order for an electric guitarist to be able to extract a variety of sounds and perform as flexibly as musicians in other fields, the electric guitarist needs to stay abreast of the changes that the electric guitar can offer or accept. Consequently, numerous attempts have been made in recent years to develop sound effect algorithms and sound processing control units and to integrate computerized tools within the guitar itself. the

Signal Processing Units (SPUs) are sound effects or multi-effects signal processors. The SPU receives two different types of signals at its inputs: audio signals and control signals. The audio signal is received from the guitar, guitar pickup or mid unit, while the control signal is received from the control unit. According to the desired program selected by the user, the audio signal is then processed and changed by software algorithms or circuits. This algorithm or circuit has variable parameters that vary according to control signals received from static and dynamic control units. the

The SPU is statically controlled by a set of selectors, keys and knobs, which enable the guitarist to edit the desired program before playing the guitar, access and set various effect parameters, and select from Select the desired effect from the effect library. the

However, it is known that these devices for changing the characteristics of sound signals have some disadvantages or limitations. the

In order to set different effect parameters while strumming the guitar, the musician must move his hands off the guitar's strings to adjust the appropriate knob or dial of the signal processing unit, usually located on the bottom surface or in a rack mount . Therefore, the musician cannot continue to play the instrument during this time interval. This leads to interruptions in the melody and limits the number of variable parameters provided, thereby restricting the guitarist from changing in real time different parameters related to the processed sound signal. This problem can be solved somewhat by using foot pedals. the

Pedal devices, such as foot pedals, are either integrated in the signal processing unit (SPU) or used as an extension thereof. The device allows the guitarist to dynamically control and change the parameters of the processing algorithms, circuits and sounds produced thereby. The guitarist controls this parameter by hitting the pedal with his heel or toe, thereby changing the magnitude of the parameter. the

However, the pedal unit is usually fixedly located in one place, which requires the musician to also stay in the same place. In many musical performances, musicians prefer to walk up and down the stage, which is hindered when they have to stay near the foot pedals to effect changes in the character of the audio signal they are producing. come and go. Thus, by restricting the guitarist's movement to a single fixed position, the foot pedal restricts his movement and distracts his performance when controlling the sound. the

Also, during live performances, the pedal assembly located on the stage floor cannot be seen by the audience. This limitation prevents the guitarist from combining visual-sound performances while strumming the guitar (such as a "show" performed by the guitarist using the tremolo handle while performing). the

Furthermore, the pedal arrangement limits the guitarist to independently controlling more than one effect parameter at a time. This limitation places a large constraint on the number of effects that can be controlled simultaneously and the resulting range of sounds. the

Furthermore, pedal devices utilize complex hand-foot coordination and are therefore limited by lack of agility and speed. the

Furthermore, the pedal arrangement can only be activated by the legs. This creates a significant limitation for guitarists suffering from such health problems, preventing them from using their legs to activate and control the signal processing unit during playing. the

Many attempts have been made in recent years to provide a signal processing unit for controlling and operating the effects of an electric guitar. US patent 6,570,078 proposes a system for generating control signals. The system includes an array of pixel data for extracting graphic and directional information through the use of image processing including the use of a touchpad, possibly fitted with impact and/or pressure sensors. Although a touchpad configuration is mentioned as a control unit, the prior art fails to provide a portable and removable signal processing unit in an amplified guitar and does not allow the guitarist to control multiple effects while strumming the guitar device. the

US Patent No. 5,105,711 and US Patent No. 5,245,128 propose removable mountable effects devices for electronic signal processing in electric guitars. The device includes a selection panel for accessing and selecting multiple effects from a signal processor included therein, which may be a keyboard mounted on the surface of the guitar within easy reach of the guitarist's fingers. However, these inventions are limited to static controllers and do not allow real-time control, manipulation and manipulation of up to three-dimensional sound parameters while playing the guitar. the

US Patent No. 5,864,083 proposes a force sensitive device which is mounted on a guitar pick and connected to a music effect generator which receives electronic music signals from the guitar and changes the music signals to generate music effects. the

US Patent 4,481,854 discloses an electronic stringed and fretted instrument having at least two pickups, bass boosting filtering and high frequency compensating filtering. A single joystick controller located on the guitar case changes all of these quantities simultaneously. However, this technique is limited to controlling only the tone of the guitar, not all effect parameters. the

None of the existing methods provide an improved removable and portable sound signal processing system for conveniently controlling, manipulating and processing up to three-dimensional sound parameters as desired by the guitarist while playing the guitar. the

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a new solution for conveniently controlling and activating sound parameters dynamically while playing the guitar, without restricting the activities of the guitarist. the

Another object of the present invention is to provide a solution that will overcome all the disadvantages arising from the use of pedal devices as a function of pedal position and a limited number of variable effect parameters. the

Yet another object of the present invention is to enable a guitarist to remove the system from one guitar and attach it to another guitar. the

Contents of the invention

The present invention provides a multi-sound effect system, and the multi-sound effect system includes a touch dynamic control unit (DCU) and a signal processing unit (SPU). The SPU is used to process audio electronic signals received from an amplified guitar, wherein the DCU enables the guitarist to change while playing the guitar by moving his playing hand on the touch surface of the DCU Multiple sound effects. the

The SPU is further used to initiate and terminate activation of the signal processing unit by touching the dynamic control unit. Said unit can be realized by DSP. the

With the exception of electric bass guitars, the DCU is located under the strings of the guitar, on the lower front panel of the guitar body. In the case of an electric bass guitar, the unit may be under the strings of the guitar or under the strings of the guitar, on the upper front panel of the guitar body. the

The DCU can simultaneously measure up to three dimensions to realize dynamic control of sound effect parameters, wherein each dimension controls at least one sound effect parameter. The different dimensions may represent one of the following: relative position at a given time, absolute position, absolute pressure value or relative pressure value with respect to the horizontal and vertical position of the finger on the touch surface of the control unit. The unit can further be used to measure the position of more than one operating finger simultaneously. the

The present invention proposes several preferred embodiments for realizing the DCU. Embodiments according to the invention include trackballs, slide potentiometers, scroll potentiometers, buttons, track pads, touch screens, dynamic ribbons, joysticks, and sensors that respond to the position of a finger on the surface of the DCU. Optical or infrared sensor. the

The proposed system further includes a static control unit for selecting predetermined sound effect parameters of the SPU and setting the operating modes and programming files of the system according to the desired guitar effect. The unit includes a set of buttons and knobs for controlling multiple sound effect parameters. the

The proposed system further comprises a management unit comprising a processing unit, wherein said unit is used to manage the system and its functions. the

The proposed system further comprises a storage unit for storing and sharing program files, data files and recorded audio data concerning the operation of the system. the

The proposed system further comprises a signal conversion unit, wherein the unit comprises an analog-to-digital and a digital-to-analog converter for converting an analog audio signal received from the guitar into a digital format, the digital-to-analog converter using Used to convert digital audio signals back to analog format. the

The proposed system further comprises an amplification unit for adjusting the level of the audio signal. the

The proposed system further comprises an interface unit for realizing the physical connection between the external audio signal source and the internal system. The physical connection is used to receive and transmit the audio signal. the

The proposed system further comprises a monitor unit and a visual display LED (Light Emitting Diode) unit for providing the guitarist with relevant information about the state of the system and its mode of operation. the

The proposed system further includes a communication unit for receiving effective communication between the proposed system and external systems, and realizing a sharing process among data files, program files and audio files. the

The proposed system further includes a Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) control unit for controlling and communicating with different musical instruments and effects supported by the MIDI protocol. the

The proposed system further includes a keyboard interface for data entry, access, selection, and programming of multiple sound effects through an external programming device. the

Except for the DCU, all the components of the whole system can be located on the main body of the guitar as an independent unit, or built in the main body of the guitar. The connection between the components and the DCU is either a wireless connection or a wired connection. the

The proposed system according to the invention further comprises a mechanism for fixing the DCU to the front panel of the amplified guitar under the strings of the guitar. The mechanism is a strap link that either passes under the strings of the guitar or passes from left to right across the front panel of the guitar and under the strings of the guitar between the pickups of the guitar so as to surround the body of the guitar and Secure the DCU to the front panel of the guitar. The strap attachment may be in the form of a clip, Velcro strap, glue, vacuum button or bolt. the

The proposed system further includes additional units such as a metronome, a drum beater, an MP3 encoder, an MP3 decoder, a guitar or bass tuner, a sequencer, a dictionary accord, and an electrical tablature (TAB ) book). the

Thus, the present invention discloses a solution that overcomes all the disadvantages arising from the use of a pedal device due to its position and a limited number of variable effect parameters. Compared with the existing traditional multi-sound effect system in the market, the present invention has the following main advantages. The present invention enables the guitarist to dynamically control and manipulate up to three dimensions of multiple effect parameters. As a result, musicians can create a wider range of sounds, add new timbres to their music, and even create new musical styles. Also, by using the "touch-response" mechanism, the present invention enables the guitarist to play the effects more naturally and emotionally. By using their hands instead of their legs to actuate the dynamics controller, the guitarist is able to control and operate the effects unit with increased actuation speed, resulting in better performances.

The present invention enables the guitarist to remove the system from one guitar and attach it to another guitar. Attaching the system to a guitar makes it portable. Therefore, the guitarist can freely move anywhere while strumming the guitar and operating the effect unit. Furthermore, the present invention enables the guitarist to improve his live performance by showing the audience the way the guitarist uses his hands to alter his sound. the

Description of drawings

With reference to the accompanying drawings, these and further features and advantages of the present invention will be more clearly understood from the subsequent description of the preferred embodiments, wherein these preferred embodiments are for example only, wherein:

Figure 1 is a general diagram depicting the different components of a system including multiple sound effects according to the present invention. the

Fig. 2 is a diagram illustrating an electric guitar including a slide potentiometer DCU according to a first embodiment of the present invention. the

Figure 3 is a diagram of a second embodiment of an electric guitar according to the invention comprising a scroll potentiometer DCU. the

Fig. 4 is a diagram of a third embodiment of an electric guitar according to the present invention, which includes a button array DCU. the

Fig. 5 is a diagram of a fourth embodiment of an electric guitar according to the invention, which includes a joystick DCU. the

Fig. 6 is a diagram of a fifth embodiment of an electric guitar according to the invention, including a trackball DCU. the

Fig. 7 is a diagram of a sixth embodiment of an electric guitar according to the invention, which includes a touchpad DCU. the

Figure 8 is an illustration of a non-electric guitar including a touchpad DCU according to the present invention. the

Fig. 9 is an illustration of a bass guitar according to the present invention including a touchpad DCU mounted on the upper front panel of the guitar. the

Fig. 10 is a diagram of a bass guitar according to the present invention including a touchpad DCU mounted on the lower front panel of the guitar. the

Fig. 11 is a diagram showing different fingers of a guitarist's left and right hands. the

Figure 12 is a diagram of the internal components of the proposed system according to the invention and the way the DCU is mounted on an electric guitar. the

Detailed ways

The proposed invention is a portable and mobile multi-sound system that offers a new and unique solution regarding the processing of electronic audio signals produced by a guitar with a single processing unit. the

The innovation according to the invention is to fix a single processing unit and touch dynamic control unit to the front panel of the guitar body to control and process the electric signal generated by the amplified guitar, such as electric guitar, bass guitar, non-electric guitar or classical guitar. This arrangement allows the guitarist to conveniently and dynamically control and manipulate multiple sound parameters. The unit enables the guitarist to control up to three dimensions of these parameters while playing the guitar. the

The proposed system consists of a signal processing unit (SPU) such as a digital signal processor (DSP) and a dynamic control unit (DCU). A DCU is a touch dynamic control unit implemented as a slide potentiometer, scroll potentiometer, button, trackball, touchpad, touchscreen, motorized belt, joystick, mouse, optical sensor array, infrared sensor, or a combination thereof. The SPU receives audio signals from the guitar pickup and controls signals from the DCU, wherein the control signals indicate the position and pressure of the guitarist's fingers on the DCU. the

Guitarists typically pluck the strings of a guitar with their thumb or a pick held between their thumb and forefinger. This picking technique allows the guitarist to move the other fingers of the picking hand freely while plucking or strumming the guitar strings. the

The DCU is installed on the front panel of the guitar in such a way that the guitarist can easily use at least one free finger (middle finger, ring finger or little finger) of his picking hand to manipulate the strings while plucking or strumming the guitar strings. DCU side. In all amplified guitars (i.e., electric, bass, non-electric, or classical), the DCU is fixed below the strings of the guitar, in the lower front area of the guitar body, while in bass guitars the DCU can be additionally fixed Above the guitar strings, in the upper front area of the guitar body. In the case of a bass guitar, where the DCU is located above the strings, the bass guitarist can manipulate the DCU with his thumb while strumming the strings with his remaining fingers. the

The DCU includes sensors that simultaneously measure in real time up to three dimensions that are used to control multiple sound effect parameters, while in each dimension multiple parameters related to said sound effects can be changed. Multiple parameters including common distortion parameters (such as gain, output level, tone, equalization or filtering), common compression parameters (such as input level, threshold, gain reduction ratio, knee point, rise time, reset time, output level), Common gate parameters (e.g. threshold, rise time, gain reduction ratio, sound field, hold or reset time, decay time, output level), common modulation effect parameters (e.g. rate, feedback or regeneration, time delay, depth, mix), Common filter effect or wah parameters (e.g. low-pass, band-pass and high-pass filter frequencies), common delay parameters (e.g. delay time, feedback, mix) and common reverb parameters (e.g. pre- or attack delay, spread, crossover , high and low frequency ratio, high and low frequency rolloff, density, balance or early reflection delay). the

The dimensions mentioned above may represent either an absolute position, a relative position, an absolute pressure value or a relative pressure value at a given time in terms of the horizontal and vertical position of the finger on the touch surface. Furthermore, the sensor is capable of simultaneously measuring the absolute or relative position and pressure of more than one operating finger. the

The 1D X sensor measures the absolute position of the finger operating the 1D X sensor at a given time, while X represents the absolute position of the finger on the DCU sensor. the

The 1D ΔX sensor measures the relative position of the finger operating the 1D ΔX sensor at a given time, while ΔX represents the relative position of the finger on the DCU sensor with respect to a given reference point. the

The two-dimensional X-Z sensor measures the absolute position and pressure of the finger operating the X-Z sensor within a given time, while X represents the absolute position of the finger on the DCU sensor and Z represents the absolute pressure value of the finger on the DCU sensor. the

The two-dimensional ΔX-ΔZ sensor measures the relative position and pressure of the finger operating the ΔX-ΔZ sensor within a given time, while ΔX represents the relative position of the finger on the DCU sensor relative to a given reference point, and ΔZ represents the relative position of the finger on the DCU sensor Relative pressure value to the reference value. the

The two-dimensional X-Y sensor measures the absolute position of the finger operating the X-Y sensor for a given time, while X represents the absolute position of the finger in the horizontal direction and Y represents the absolute position of the finger in the vertical direction. the

The two-dimensional ΔX-ΔY sensor measures the relative position of the finger operating the ΔX-ΔY sensor within a given time, and ΔX represents the relative position of the finger in the horizontal direction relative to a given reference point, and ΔY represents the relative position of the finger in the vertical direction relative to a given reference point. relative position. the

The three-dimensional X-Y-Z sensor measures the absolute position of the finger operating the X-Y-Z sensor within a given time, while X represents the absolute position of the finger in the horizontal direction, Y represents the absolute position of the finger in the vertical direction, and Z represents the pressure value generated by the operating finger. the

The three-dimensional ΔX-ΔY-ΔZ sensor measures the relative position of the finger operating the ΔX-ΔY-ΔZ sensor within a given time, while ΔX represents the relative position of the finger in the horizontal direction relative to a given reference point, and ΔY represents the finger in the vertical direction relative to a given reference The relative position of the point, ΔZ represents the relative pressure value of the finger on the DCU sensor relative to the reference value. the

Once the DCU detects the finger contact and measures the dimensions required to control the different sound parameters as described above, a control signal containing this information is transmitted to the SPU. The user (via the SCU) pre-selects the SPU sound program. Therefore, according to the desired program and the control signals received from the DCU, the SPU processes and changes the guitar audio signal through software algorithms. the

More particularly, the SPU is capable of starting, stopping and processing the sound produced by the guitar according to the contact and/or pressure and/or position and/or time values of the finger activating the DCU. This enables the guitarist to continuously or intermittently change the sound of the guitar by manipulating his fingers on the DCU continuously or intermittently. the

Compared with the conventional multi-sound systems currently on the market, the present invention produces the following main advantages. First, the system allows the guitarist to change at once in real time up to three effect parameters in three physical coordinate axes - X, Y, Z + W, where W represents the system's response to multiple finger movements DCU contacts. As a result, musicians are able to create a wider range of entirely new sounds, add new dimensions and timbres to their music, and even create new musical styles. For example, by using a three-dimensional X-Y-Z touchpad DCU, a guitarist can achieve the following results: by moving his finger on the touchpad vertically across the X-axis to increase the distortion gain effect parameter, by moving it in a cycle across the Y-axis move their fingers horizontally to create a wah effect, and increase/decrease the overall volume by pressing their fingers on the trackpad surface or releasing their fingers. Moreover, this feature enables the guitarist to balance between at least two effect parameters while playing the guitar (for example, he can increase the magnitude of the distortion gain parameter and decrease the reverb time delay parameter at the same time). This new feature is very useful, especially in live performances. the

Second, by using a "touch-response mechanism" that is sensitive to the pressure value and vibration of the finger to activate the DCU, the guitarist is able to control multiple sounds more naturally and emotionally. For example, in a three-dimensional X-Y-Z touchpad, a guitarist can increase volume and sound duration by applying pressure to the touchpad. In this case, the guitarist can place his pinky finger on the trackpad at a desired location and add spice to the music by pressing, releasing, or vibrating his pinky finger when plucking the strings. the

Additionally, since the hands are faster than the legs, the hand-activated DCU enables the guitarist to control and operate the effects unit with increased actuation speed. This capability can produce faster SPU algorithm-controlled response times, and thus lead to better performance of the produced sound. the

Also, since the DCU and guitar strings are activated by the same hand, the present invention circumvents the hand-foot coordination required for guitarists using pedal devices. Therefore, the player's learning curve is greatly shortened and a lot of time is saved for training to achieve the same performance level. the

This feature yields another advantage. Although the guitar and effects are activated by the guitarist's hands, the present invention provides guitarists suffering from such health problems with the possibility to use dynamic sound effects in their playing. Chances are, said physical problems prevent guitarists from using their legs to activate effects. the

The present invention introduces a portable system that is fixed to the guitar so that the guitarist can freely move anywhere while playing the guitar and dynamically operate by manipulating the hands on the surface of the multi-sound effect control unit in real time Multi-sound effect control unit. This new feature is very useful, especially on the stage of live performances. the

The invention enables the guitarist to remove the system from the guitar, take the system anywhere he likes, and attach it to another guitar. the

Furthermore, attaching the DCU to the front panel of the guitar allows the guitarist to perform visual sound manipulation performances by showing the audience how they change the sound by manipulating the DCU with their hands (similar to guitar playing Players change guitar sounds in concert by using tremolo handles, strumming guitars with electric drills, strumming guitars behind their heads, plucking strings with their teeth, playing solos while backflipping on trampolines and many other great The "performance" given by the "performance" technology). Therefore, the guitarist can improve the quality of his performance and increase the enjoyment of the audience. the

In general, the present invention provides guitarists with the opportunity to improve their musical and performance performance. It allows guitarists to add new dimensions and creativity to guitar playing and music composition, which will greatly increase the fun and joy of playing guitar. the

The DCU according to the invention can further be realized as a detachable unit, a built-in unit within the body of the guitar. Furthermore, components of the system other than the DCU may be placed either as stand-alone units, mounted on the body of the guitar, or implemented as built-in units in the body of the guitar. the

Figure 1 is a general diagram depicting the different components of a system including multiple sound effects according to the present invention. The input device [11] is used to transmit the audio signal to the proposed multi-sound system [10], while the output device [12] is used to receive the audio signal, receive and transmit the control signal, and share information about the multi-sound system's operation and Data, audio and program files for programmed information. the

The input device [11] consists of an electric guitar [13], while the DCU [14] is fixed to the lower area of the front panel. Fixing the DCU to this area of the guitar allows the guitarist to conveniently manipulate the DCU with at least one finger of the playing hand while strumming the guitar. Most electric guitars are completely passive, ie, consume no power, so there is no need for the electric guitar to be plugged into a power source. The audio signal leaves the guitar through the output jack [15], which is located on the guitar body [9], and is transmitted into the system through the interface unit [16]. The signal transmission is either using cables, or other wireless mechanisms that allow audio signals to be transmitted from the guitar to the system. In some cases, an intermediate unit [31] including other musical instruments equipment can be used between the guitar and the proposed system. For example, an intermediate unit (or intermediate units) may be another processing unit (or processing units) (e.g., floor-sound effects, multi-effects processors, rack-mounted processors, stomp boxes, effects pedals, equalizers, desktop effects, and portable effects), a preamp, controller pedals, volume pedals, a mixer, mono/ Multi-channel recorders, computers, other musical instruments, loudspeakers, or any combination thereof. the

The output device [12] consists of three different types of devices. Audio signals are transmitted to these devices via cables or wireless mechanisms. the

The first type of equipment [17] consists of electronic instruments that react to the transmission of audio signals received from the proposed system. These devices can include guitar amps, headphones, other multi-effects systems, other types of audio signal processors (e.g., floor-mounted effects units, multi-effects processors, rack-mounted processors, stomp boxes, effects pedals, equalizers, desktop guitar effects, and portable effects), musical instruments, mixers, recorders, or combinations thereof. the

The second type of equipment [18] consists of electronic instruments used to communicate with the proposed system to receive control signals, transmit signals or share data, audio and program files about multiple sound effects. These devices may include PCs, memory cards, external programming units, and other equivalent multi-sound systems. the

A third type of device [19] consists of electronic musical instruments used to communicate with different musical instruments supported by the Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) protocol. As long as the various instruments and effects support the MIDI protocol, the MIDI protocol controls and communicates with them. the

A communication unit [20] is connected between the proposed system and the second output device [18], thus providing efficient communication. the

The MIDI control unit [21] is used to connect to a third output device [19] via cable or wireless mechanism. The connection between these devices enables the control and communication with different musical instruments and effects, which support the MIDI protocol. the

The dynamics control unit (DCU) [14] is implemented as a touch sensor for controlling the algorithm of the SPU, which is used to process the audio signal generated by the guitar. The DCU is used to recognize and transmit information about the position or pressure of the finger activating the unit. The main advantage of this unit is that it enables the guitarist to dynamically change different effects and parameters while playing the guitar. The DCU either transmits control signals to the management unit [23], or directly transmits control signals to the SPU [22]. the

The Signal Processing Unit (SPU) [22] is an effect or multi-effect audio signal processor. The unit is designed to dynamically process and alter the incoming audio signal transmitted from the guitar according to control signals received from the DCU [14], Static Control Unit (SCU) [24] or Management Unit [23]. the

The Static Control Unit (SCU) [24] consists of a set of buttons and knobs commonly used to access, edit, program, and preset sound effect parameters. While strumming the guitar, the SCU enables the guitarist to select and access effects programs from a library of effects. The SCU transmits control signals about said parameters to the management unit [23], or directly to the SPU. the

The management unit [23] is used to process and control the operation and functions of the system. It further manages and controls the peripherals of the system. The management unit receives control signals from the SCU and the DCU according to the preselected settings and the position of the guitarist's fingers on the DCU. The units include processor units, which may take the form of microprocessors, digital signal processing units (DSPs), designated signal processors (e.g., FPGAs, ASICs), or processing devices (e.g., ARM, RISK, Pentium, etc). The processor unit converts the control signals into the signal format required by the SPU and processes them according to a set of commands and instructions. Furthermore, the management unit manages storage devices, display drivers, communication protocols between internal units and external devices, and manages different aspects about the proposed system, such as initialization process, alarms, booting, timing, programming process, effects editing, Audio mode recording and more. the

The interface unit [16] is used to realize the physical connection between external sources, such as input and output devices, and the proposed system to receive and transmit audio signals. The interface unit at the input stage transmits the analog audio signal received from the input device [11] to the signal conversion unit [25] and the amplification unit [26]. Whereas at the output stage the audio signal is further transmitted to an output device [17]. the

The signal conversion unit [25] includes an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) unit and a digital-to-analog converter (DAC). The ADC is used to convert the analog signal received from the guitar into the digital signal format required by the SPU. A digital-to-analog converter (DAC) unit is used to convert the digital signal into the analog format required by the output device [17]. the

The amplification unit [26] is used to adjust the level of the signal according to the requirements of the system and peripheral equipment. the

The storage unit [27] is used to store and share programs, data and audio files required for the correct operation of the proposed system. The unit includes a storage device which may be in the form of ROM, RAM (eg SDRAM, SRAM), non-volatile memory (eg FLASH, EPROM) or memory card (eg smart-media, compact flash ). The storage unit realizes reading data from SPU [22] and management unit [23] and writing data to SPU [22] and management unit [23]. the

A monitoring unit [28] and a visual display LED [29] are used to provide the guitarist with relevant information about different aspects of the proposed system. The different aspects may include operating states, alarms, operating modes (e.g., programming or playing modes), multiple effects libraries, sound effect parameters, and the like. The monitoring unit [28] is an auxiliary unit comprising a display device such as an alphanumeric display, a graphic display, a seven-segment display, a touch screen display, an LCD display, a TFT display, etc. the

The visual display LED unit [29] is an auxiliary unit including light bulbs, eg light emitting diodes and illuminated buttons. the

The keyboard [30] is an auxiliary unit for additional data entry, access, selection and programming of multiple sound effects. The communication is done through an external keyboard or programming device. the

The invention further includes a power supply as a source of voltage and current required to supply the different units of the system. A power source is used for the normal functioning of the unit, in the form of a battery (regular or rechargeable) or a transformer, which can be either integrated in the system or placed as an external unit. For example, the power source may be a battery compartment located on the guitar strap or on the guitarist's belt. the

The proposed multi-sound system according to the present invention may also include additional units such as metronome, drum beater, MP3 encoder, MP3 decoder, guitar or bass tuner, sequencer, chord dictionary and electronic notation book. the

Fig. 2 is a diagram illustrating an electric guitar including a slide potentiometer DCU according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The body of an electric guitar is generally indicated by the reference numeral [41]. The bridge of the guitar is indicated by reference [42], the string area by reference [43], and the pickup for amplifying the sound of the strings by reference [44]. A slide potentiometer array device [45] providing multiple effects is mounted on the lower front panel of the guitar body. The pickup selector switch [46] shown in this figure is located near the volume knob [47] and tone knob [48]. Also comprise output socket [49] on the main body of guitar, audio frequency signal is transmitted through output socket [49]. The neck [51] of the guitar includes many frets. The headstock [53] at the far end of the guitar includes a tuning key mechanism [52] for tuning the strings of the guitar. According to the proposed embodiments, a guitarist is able to dynamically control and manipulate multiple sound effect parameters while strumming the guitar by sliding at least one of his playing fingers over at least one slide potentiometer. the

Figure 3 is a diagram of a second embodiment of an electric guitar according to the invention comprising a scroll potentiometer DCU. According to this implementation, a sliding wheel [61] or a dial [62] is installed on the lower front panel of the guitar body so that the guitarist can move his finger on the sliding wheel or dial when playing the guitar. At least one of the fingers dynamically controls and operates multiple sound effect parameters. the

Fig. 4 is a diagram of a third embodiment of an electric guitar according to the present invention, which includes a button array DCU. According to this implementation, the button [71] is mounted on the lower front panel of the guitar body. This implementation enables the guitarist to dynamically control and manipulate multiple sound effect parameters by pressing the button and keeping at least one of the playing fingers on the button while playing the guitar. the

Fig. 5 is a diagram of a fourth embodiment of an electric guitar according to the invention, which includes a joystick DCU. According to this implementation, the push/pull rod [81] is located close to the joystick [82] and mounted on the lower front panel of the guitar body. The push/draw bar or joystick enables the guitarist to dynamically control and manipulate multiple sound effect parameters while playing the guitar by moving at least one of the playing fingers on the bar. the

Fig. 6 is a diagram of a fifth embodiment of an electric guitar according to the invention, including a trackball DCU. According to this implementation, a trackball [91] is mounted on the lower front panel of the guitar body and enables the guitarist to dynamically move the guitar while playing the guitar by moving at least one of the playing fingers on the trackball. Control and manipulate multiple sound effect parameters. the

Fig. 7 is a diagram of a sixth embodiment of an electric guitar according to the invention, which includes a touchpad DCU. According to this implementation, the touchpad [101] is mounted on the lower front panel of the guitar body and enables the guitarist to move at least one of the playing fingers on the touchpad while playing the guitar, Dynamically control and manipulate multiple sound effect parameters such as distortion gain. the

Figure 8 is an illustration of a non-electric guitar including a touchpad DCU according to the present invention. According to this implementation, the touchpad [101] is mounted on the lower front panel of the guitar body. the

Figure 9 is an illustration of a bass guitar including a touchpad DCU according to the present invention. According to this implementation, the touchpad [101] is mounted on the upper front panel of the bass guitar body. the

Fig. 10 is an illustration of a bass guitar including a touchpad DCU according to the present invention. According to this implementation, the touchpad [101] is mounted on the lower front panel of the bass guitar body. the

Fig. 11 is a diagram showing different fingers of a guitarist's left and right hands. If the guitarist uses his right hand to pluck or strum the guitar strings (as right-handed guitarists typically do), the guitarist is able to use the At least one of the fingers of the right hand manipulates the DCU. If the guitarist uses his left hand to pluck or strum the guitar strings (as left-handed guitarists usually do), the guitarist can use the At least one of the fingers of the left hand manipulates the DCU. The bass guitarist further uses his left thumb [117] and right thumb [118] to control the DCU while using the other fingers (little, ring, middle and index fingers) to pluck the strings. the

Figure 12 is a diagram of the internal components of the proposed system according to the invention and the way the DCU is mounted on a guitar. Apart from the DCU, the internal components of the proposed system (e.g., SCU, SPU) [120] are mounted on the front panel of the guitar body, above the guitar strings. The DCU [121] is installed on the front panel of the guitar body, below the strings of the guitar. Strap connectors [122] are used to secure the components to the guitar body, while cables [126] are used to transmit control signals between these components. The strap connectors pass under the guitar strings and through the body of the guitar. A guitar strap button [123] may further be included to secure and stabilize the way the strap attachment is used. The cable [125] is used to realize the data transmission of the audio signal from the guitar to the internal components of the system [120] and from the internal components of the system [120] to the guitar. A splitter [124] enables the dual transmission of said audio signal from the guitar to the proposed system and from the system to the output device (eg guitar amplifier) via an additional cable [127]. the

The mechanism is used to attach and detach the DCU to the lower front panel of the amplified guitar and the upper front panel of the bass guitar. The mechanism is at least one strap link that passes under the guitar strings, between the guitar pickups. In the case of a lead electric guitar that includes only one pickup (as in a Fender Telecaster guitar), the connecting strap passes along the pickup alongside it, enclosing the body of the guitar and securing the dynamics control unit to the front panel of the guitar. The attachment means are used to attach or detach the DCU and at least one other system component as a unit to the front panel of the amplified guitar below the strings of the guitar. the

Another method of using strap connectors is by passing the strap connectors over the front panel of the guitar from left to right and under the guitar strings in the lower area of the guitar body. The connector surrounds the body of the guitar while fastening the DCU to the front panel of the guitar. the

Secure the DCU to the strap attachment using one of the following set of mechanisms: pins (similar to the mechanism used to combine straps and watches), clamping devices, dedicated strap channels or slots in the unit, Velcro straps, Rubber rings and scotch tape. the

The mechanism can further be implemented as connection means among the following: clamping means, Velcro straps, glue, vacuum buttons, rubber rings, scotch tapes and bolts. the

The multi-sound system further includes a mechanism for securing the components of the system (other than the DCU) to the amplified guitar body and strap attachment, wherein said mechanism is an attachment of the following: strap, clamp, nylon Velcro straps, adhesives, vacuum buttons and bolts. the

While the above description contains many specific details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as exemplifications of preferred embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other possible variations within the scope thereof. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be determined not by the described embodiments, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents. the

Claims (38)

1. multiple sound effect system that is used to control the guitar audio comprises:

The guitar that amplifies, the described guitar that amplifies produces electronic audio signal when the string of the described guitar that amplifies of operation;

The touch-control dynamic control unit, it can be operated and measure nearly three dimensions in real time simultaneously, described dimension is used to control multiple sound effect parameters, in each dimension, can change a plurality of parameters about described audio, wherein said dimension is represented with regard at least one finger with regard to the level and the position on the vertical direction on the touch-control surface, the absolute position in preset time, relative position, absolute pressure value or relative pressure value; With

Signal processing unit, described signal processing unit are used for coming the described electronic audio signal of dynamic process from the guitar reception that amplifies of generation electronic audio signal according to the control signal that receives from described dynamic control unit,

Wherein said dynamic control unit makes the guitarist by moving his at least one finger of playing hand to another side on one side from described dynamic control unit, can change at least one audio during guitar simultaneously playing described amplifying, and

Wherein said dynamic control unit is connected with described signal processing unit, in case described dynamic control unit detects the contact of finger and controls the required described dimension of different sound effect parameters with measuring, the control signal that comprises the information of described dimension just is transferred to described signal processing unit, and described signal processing unit produces the multiple audio that is applied to described electronic audio signal according to the described control signal that receives from described dynamic control unit.

2. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said dynamic control unit is positioned at the below of the string of the described guitar that amplifies, in the lower front panel of the main body of the described guitar that amplifies.

3. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, the wherein said guitar that amplifies is from following one group: electric guitar, bass guitar, the classical guitar that amplifies, non-electric guitar and half non-electric guitar amplify.

4. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, the wherein said guitar that amplifies is the bass guitar, and described dynamic control unit is fixed to the top of the string of described bass guitar, at the upper front plate of the main body of described bass guitar.

5. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said dynamic control unit further can be measured the position of a plurality of operation fingers simultaneously.

6. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said signal processing unit further can be by contacting the activation that described dynamic control unit starts and stop described signal processing unit.

7. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said signal processing unit is realized by digital signal processor.

8. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said dynamic control unit is an one of the following: tracking ball, slip potentiometer, roller potentiometer, at least one button, control stick, Trackpad, touch-screen, electronic band.

9. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said dynamic control unit uses the optical sensor board to the position reaction of described finger on described plate.

10. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said dynamic control unit uses the infrared ray sensor plate to the position reaction of described finger on described plate.

11. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, further comprise static control module, described static control module is used to select the predetermined sound effect parameters of described signal processing unit, the operating pattern that described system is set and the programming file about the effect of the desired described guitar that amplifies, and wherein said static control module comprises one group of button and knob of being used to control described parameter.

12. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1 further comprises administrative unit, described administrative unit comprises processing unit, and wherein said administrative unit is used to manage described system and its function.

13. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1 further comprises memory cell, described memory cell is used to store and share the voice data of program file, data file and record about described system manipulation.

14. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, further comprise signal conversion unit, wherein said signal conversion unit comprises analog-digital converter and digital to analog converter, the simulated audio signal that described analog-digital converter is used for receiving from the described guitar that amplifies is converted to the number format of described signal processing unit needs, described digital to analog converter is used for digital audio and video signals is changed back analog format, and the signal of described analog format is transferred to external equipment.

15. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1 further comprises amplifying unit, described amplifying unit is used to regulate the level of described electronic audio signal.

16. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1 further comprises interface unit, described interface unit is used to realize the physical connection between external source of audio signals and the built-in system, and wherein said physical connection is used for receiving and transmitting described electronic audio signal.

17. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1 further comprises monitor unit, described monitor unit is used to described guitarist that relevant information about state He its operating pattern of described system is provided.

18. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1 comprises that further vision shows light emitting diode, described vision shows that light emitting diode is used to described guitarist that relevant information about state He its operating pattern of described system is provided.

19. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1 further comprises communication unit, described communication unit is used to realize the efficient communication between described multiple sound effect system and the external system, and realizes sharing of data file, program file and audio file.

20. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, further comprise the musical instrument digital interface control module, described musical instrument digital interface control module is used to control different musical instruments and the effect device that the musical instrument digital interface agreement is supported, and communicates with the different musical instruments and the effect device of the support of musical instrument digital interface agreement.

21. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1 further comprises keyboard interface, described keyboard interface is used for by outside programming device input data, visit, selection and the described multiple audio of programming.

22. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said dynamic control unit is removably mounted on the main body of the described guitar that amplifies.

23. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said dynamic control unit is built in the main body of the described guitar that amplifies.

24. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, wherein except described dynamic control unit, the parts of all described systems are positioned at one independently on the unit.

25. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1 wherein is installed on the main body of the described guitar that amplifies the part detachable of all described systems.

26. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the parts of all described systems are built in the main body of the described guitar that amplifies.

27. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, the connection between the internal part of wherein said dynamic control unit and described system is wireless connections.

28. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, the connection between the internal part of wherein said dynamic control unit and described system is a wired connection.

29. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, further comprise jockey, described jockey is used for described dynamic control unit is connected to the front panel of the described guitar that amplifies, or described dynamic control unit pulled down from the described front panel of the described guitar that amplifies, wherein said jockey comes from following one group: clamping device, nylon fastener belt, sicker, vacuum buttons and bolt.

30. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, further comprise jockey, described jockey is used for described dynamic control unit with the front panel that is connected to the described guitar that amplifies as at least one other the system unit of a unit, or pull down from the described front panel of the described guitar that amplifies, wherein said jockey is from following one group: clamping device, nylon fastener belt, sicker, vacuum buttons and bolt.

31. as claim 29 or 30 described multiple sound effect systems, wherein said jockey is at least one band attachment, described band attachment passes below the string of the described guitar that amplifies on the next door of the sound pick-up of the described guitar that amplifies and along its length direction, thereby around the main body of the described guitar that amplifies and described dynamic control unit is fastened on the described front panel of the described guitar that amplifies.

32. as claim 29 or 30 described multiple sound effect systems, wherein said jockey is at least one band attachment, described band attachment passes from the left side to the right on the lower area of the main body of the described guitar that amplifies, and below the string of the described guitar that amplifies, pass, thereby around the main body of the described guitar that amplifies and described dynamic control unit is fastened on the described front panel of the described guitar that amplifies.

33. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 31, wherein said dynamic control unit is fixed on the described band attachment, and wherein said jockey comes from following one group: special-purpose tape channel, nylon fastener belt, rubber ring and adhesive tape in pin, clamping device, the unit.

34. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, further comprise jockey, described jockey is used for the system unit except that described dynamic control unit is connected to the main body of the described guitar that amplifies, maybe will pull down from the main body of the described guitar that amplifies except that the system unit the described dynamic control unit, wherein said jockey is from following one group: band, clamping device, nylon fastener belt, sicker, vacuum buttons and bolt.

35. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, further comprise jockey, described jockey is used for the system unit except that described dynamic control unit is connected to being with of the described guitar that amplifies, maybe the described system unit except that described dynamic control unit is pulled down from being with of the described guitar that amplifies, wherein said jockey is from following one group: band, special use band slit, clamping device, nylon fastener belt, rubber ring and adhesive tape in pin, the unit.

36. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, further comprise extra cell, described extra cell is from following one group: metronome, the device of beating a drum, MP3 encoder, MP3 decoding device, guitar tuner or bass tuning device, SEQ sequencer, chord dictionary and electronic signs spectrum book.

37. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said system is of portable form.

38. multiple sound effect system as claimed in claim 32, wherein said dynamic control unit is fixed on the described band attachment, and wherein said jockey comes from following one group: special-purpose tape channel, nylon fastener belt, rubber ring and adhesive tape in pin, clamping device, the unit.

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