DE102015105160A1 - Hammer mechanism with key device and hammer device for striking a string of a keyboard instrument, with at least one modification for achieving a high impact repetition frequency - Google Patents

Abstract

There are disclosed a key device (12) and a hammer device (16) which, when assembled, form a hammer mechanism (10) for striking a string of a keyboard instrument. The key device has a key body (30) formed of a base material and having a key body full weight determined by a key body full volume given by outer dimensions of the key body and a specific gravity of the base material. The hammer device has a total weight and at least one section (46, 50, 51) made of a base material suitable for that section. According to the invention, at least one modification is carried out on the key body (30) and / or on the hammer device (16) in that at least one recess or recess of base material is formed in / on the device (12, 16) and / or in at least a portion of the device (12, 16) the base material is replaced by a replacement material having a specific gravity lower than the specific gravity of the base material. Due to this modification, the weight of the device is reduced by at least 10% without modification by weight.

Description

The invention relates to a hammer mechanism comprising a key device and a hammer device for striking a string of a keyboard instrument, such as a grand piano or a piano.

State of the art

As a hammer mechanism, also called piano mechanics or stop mechanism, a lever construction is referred to, which comprises a plurality of keys and a plurality of each key associated and thus functionally coupled hammer, wherein by an operation, such as a finger, a key assigned to this hammer against a also the button associated string of the keyboard instrument is thrown to make the string to sound. The keyboard instrument may be a grand piano, such as a grand piano, or a piano, such as a concert piano.

In classical wings, ie winged instruments, which were built in from about 1780, in particular two embodiments of hammer mechanisms are known. On the one hand a so-called bouncing mechanism or bouncing mechanism, which is used to activate the hammer 100 , which received the name "German mechanics" or "Viennese mechanics" early on, because it was built mainly by German and Austrian piano makers, and exemplarily in the attached 1 is shown. On the other hand, a so-called jack mechanism, which received its name due to a jack used to activate the hammer. The jacking mechanism is exemplified in the attached 2 shown. This mechanic was also given the name "English Mechanics" or modifications to it also the names "Halbenglische mechanics" or "Full-English mechanics", because they were, although developed by German and Austrian piano makers, spread by English piano makers.

In general, a hammer mechanism prevents hammering and / or finger pressure from compressing the string. This is achieved in that the hammer reaches its attachment point on the string only due to its momentum (momentum) in free flight and then rebounds from the string. The technical term for this is the "release" of the hammer.

The in the 1 Bouncing mechanism shown 100 includes a button 102 with a so-called front (in the 1 right) end portion and a so-called rear (in the 1 left) end portion, one on a wing base 101 arranged key bearing 106 on which the button 102 is pivotally mounted, one in a storage capsule 110 around a bearing axis 112 pivotally mounted hammer 104 , one at a bounce carrier 120 trained, so-called bounce tongue 122 , and one on a so-called dummy doll (damper carrier) 124 worn damper 126 which is in a non-actuated state of the button 102 at one of the mechanics 100 associated string 130 of the wing rests. The storage capsule 110 is on one of the rear end section of the button 102 elevating bearing carrier 108 arranged. The hammer 104 includes a rear (in the 1 left) end, the so-called beak, 114 , a hammer handle extending from the beak 116 and one at the distal (in the 1 arranged right) end attached hammer head 118 who is in a resting state of the hammer 104 in a hammer head catcher 128 on a hammer rest pad 130 rests. The bounce tongue 122 or the bounce carrier 120 is attached to the wing base via a leather hinge and is over a spring 134 in a defined, adjustable height above the rear end 114 of the hammer 104 held.

When pressing the in the 1 shown bouncing mechanism 100 , by pressing the front end of the button 102 (so-called striking the button 102 ) raises its rear end and thereby the bearing capsule 110 with the hammer stored in it 104 , By lifting the hammer 104 bounces its rear end 114 against the bounce tongue 122 so that the front end of the hammer 104 with the hammer head 118 up and against the string 132 is thrown. At the same time, the damper carrier 124 with the damper 126 raised, leaving the damper 126 the string 132 leaves, eliminating the string 132 can swing freely. After the attack of the hammer head 118 on the string 132 bounces the hammer head 118 from the string 132 back, with the back end 114 of the hammer 104 at the bounce tongue 122 slips past. Then the hammer head 118 gets in the hammer head catcher 128 caught and rested again on the Hammerruhe pad 130 , ready for a next strike of the button 102 ,

The in the 2 shown jacking mechanism 200 includes a button 202 with a front end portion (to the right with respect to 2 , not shown) and a so-called posterior (in the 2 left) end portion, one on a wing base 201 arranged key bearing (in the 2 not shown) on which the button 202 is pivotally mounted, one on the wing base 201 arranged key-end cushion 206 on which the rear end portion of the button 202 in a rest position of the button 202 resting, one above the wing base 201 supported bearing carrier 208 holding a storage capsule 210 carries one in the storage capsule 210 around a bearing axis 212 pivotally mounted hammer 204 (explained below), a jack 222 that's about one in the rear end section of the button 202 supported jack axis 224 is pivotally mounted, wherein the pivoting range of the jack 222 on the one hand by a fixed jacking pad 226 and on the other hand by the adjustable jack adjustment screw 220 is limited, a Hammerruhepolster 230 on which the hammer 204 resting in a resting position, and a hammer head catcher 228 for catching the hammer head 218 of the hammer 204 if this one after a beating of the string 232 rebounds. The hammer 204 includes a front (in the 2 arranged on the right) end portion of the bearing axis 212 is interspersed and in which a joint area (the so-called hammering) 214 is arranged, on which a distal (in the 2 upper) end portion of the jack 222 can attack. The hammer 204 further comprises a hammer stem extending from the front end portion 216 and one at the distal (in the 2 arranged on the left) end attached hammer head 218 for striking the string 232 , the resting state of the hammer 204 on the hammer rest pad 230 rests. The jack mechanism 200 includes for damping the string 232 also a damper mechanism (not shown) similar to the mechanism 124 . 126 at the in the 1 shown bouncing mechanism is built and works. The jack 222 is about a spring 234 in one through the jack adjustment screw 220 in terms of the button 202 defined slewing rest position held by the adjustment screw 220 is set so that the distal (in the 2 upper end portion of the jack 222 at the joint area 214 of the hammer 204 can attack.

When pressing the in the 2 shown jack mechanism 200 , by pressing the front end of the button 202 (Hitting the button 202 ) raises the rear end portion and arranged thereon jack 222 , In this case, the distal end portion of the jack abuts 222 against the impact area 214 of the hammer 204 and pushes the hammer 204 that is around the bearing axis 212 is pivotally mounted, so that the hammer head 218 up and against the string 232 flings. After striking the hammer head 218 on the string 232 bounces the hammer head 218 back and gets in the hammer head catcher 228 caught, with the hammer handle 216 on the hammer rest pad 230 rested, ready to strike the button again 202 ,

For pianos or pianinos must, for reasons of space and as in the 3 shown, an upward movement of the rear end portion of a key in a forward movement of the hammer or hammer head are implemented, whereby the contact of the key to the hammer is slightly more indirect than a wing. As with grand pianos, a piano does not need to be hammered and / or finger-pressed to stop a string.

The in the 3 shown piano mechanics 300 includes a button 302 with a front end portion (to the right with respect to 3 , not shown) and a so-called posterior (in the 3 left) end section, one on a piano base 301 arranged key bearing (in the 3 not shown) on which the button 302 hinged, one on the piano base 301 arranged key-end cushion 306 on which the rear end portion of the button 302 in a rest position of the button 302 resting, one on the rear end section of the button 302 arranged bearing carrier 308 holding a storage capsule 310 carries one in the storage capsule 310 around a bearing axis 312 pivotally mounted hammer 304 (explained below), one on the rear end portion of the button 302 arranged jack carrier 323 on which a jack 322 around a bearing-side end portion of the jack 322 arranged jack axis 324 is pivotally mounted, one of the jack carrier 323 Supported jacking pad 326 on which a middle section of the jack 322 is supported, a Hammerruhepolster 330 on which the hammer 304 Resting supported in a rest position, and a damping mechanism (explained below) 336 . 337 . 338 . 340 to dampen the string 332 immediately before and after the string is hit 332 , The hammer 304 includes a lower end portion of the bearing axis 312 is interspersed and in which a joint area (the so-called hammering) 314 is arranged, on which a distal (in the 3 upper) end portion of the jack 322 can attack. The hammer 304 further comprises a hammer stem extending from the lower end portion 316 , the resting state of the hammer 304 on the hammer rest pad 330 rests, and one at the distal (in the 3 arranged above) end attached hammer head 318 for striking the string 332 , A resting position of the jack 322 is through the jack adjustment screw 320 adjusted so that the distal (in the 3 upper end portion of the jack 322 at the joint area 314 of the hammer 304 can attack. The jack spring presses 334 on the jack 322 , so that its middle section on the Stoßzungenpolster 326 is pressed.

The damping mechanism of the in 3 shown piano mechanism 300 includes one around a damper axle 339 pivotally mounted damper carrier 338 , from one of which (in the 3 upper) end up a damper stem 337 extends, at its distal (in the 3 upper) end of the damper 336 is fixed, a damper actuator 342 with a first and a second end opposite the first end, the first end being attached to one (in the 3 upper) End of the damper carrier 338 is attached and the second end in the bearing capsule 310 protrudes and there with the lower end portion of the hammer 304 is functionally coupled, and a damper spring 340 for pressing the damper 336 to the string 332 and for defining this pressed state of the damper 336 on the string 332 as a resting state of the damper.

When pressing the in the 3 shown jack mechanism 300 , by pressing the front end of the button 302 (Hitting the button 302 ) raises the rear end portion and arranged thereon jack 322 , In this case, the distal end portion of the jack abuts 322 against the impact area 314 of the hammer 304 and pushes the hammer 304 that is around the bearing axis 312 is pivotally mounted, so that the hammer head 318 to the rear (in the 3 to the left) and against the string 332 flings. Simultaneously with the spin of the hammer head 318 against the string 332 the lower end portion of the hammer twists 304 , wherein the part of the end portion located in the bearing capsule 310 below the bearing axis 312 is located, forward (in the 3 to the right) moves while the second end of the damper actuator 342 moves forward and thereby pivots the damper mechanism and the damper 336 from the string 332 takes off, leaving the string 332 can swing freely. After striking the hammer head 318 on the string 332 bounces the hammer head 318 back, with the hammer handle 316 on the hammer rest pad 330 is caught and resting supported, ready for a renewed release of the hammer 304 , Simultaneously with the rebound of the hammer head 318 forward (in the 3 to the right) it twists itself in the bearing capsule 310 below the bearing axis 312 located part of the end portion of the hammer 304 to the rear (in the 3 to the left), taking the second end of the damper actuator 342 backwards with, so the damper 336 thereby and also under the effect of the damper spring 340 again against the string 332 is pressed.

Also electric pianos (e-pianos) have a mechanics functionally similar to a hammer mechanism, a so-called electric piano mechanism, which comprises a key and a hammer which can be activated by pressing the key. The 4 shows an example of an electric piano mechanics 400 , in the JP 2004-020808 A is disclosed.

The in the 4 shown electric piano mechanics 400 includes a button 402 with a front end portion (left in the 4 ) and a rear (in the 4 right) end section, one on an electric piano base 401 arranged key bearing 406 with a key bearing pin 407 , by means of which the key 402 is pivotally mounted, one behind (in the 4 to the right of) the button 402 arranged, with the base 401 connected hammer bearing carrier 408 holding a storage capsule 410 carries one in the storage capsule 410 around a bearing axis 412 pivotally mounted hammer 404 , one from the hammer bearing carrier 408 partly over the hammer 404 extending switch device 432 , which replaces a string provided in a mechanical keyboard instrument, by the swing of the activated hammer 404 is actuated and thus registered a keystroke, one in the front section (in the 4 to the left of the key pad 406 ) arranged key pad 403 , where in the 4 a black key pad which marks a black key is shown, and a black key pad is shown in the rear portion (in the 4 to the right of the key pad 406 ) arranged hammer pad 430 , the button before a hammer or hammer head 418 protects. The hammer 404 includes a storage section 414 from the bearing axis 412 is interspersed, a from the storage section 414 forward (in the 4 to the left) extending hammer handle 416 and one at the distal end of the hammer handle 416 provided hammer head 418 when activating the hammer 404 against the switch device 432 bounces and this actuates, thereby striking the button 402 is registered.

The key 402 has several recesses 440 . 442 . 446 . 450 . 452 and 454 , which in principle can be divided into two categories in the context of the present patent application. The first category includes recesses for targeted weight reduction or to reduce the moment of inertia of the button 402 and thus for influencing the touch dynamics of the button 402 and the hammer 404 are provided. When in the 4 button shown 402 the electric piano mechanics 400 from the JP 2004-020808 A The first category includes the front through holes 452 and the back holes 454 , The second category includes functional recesses that are responsible for other features that are not the touch response of the button 402 intended. When in the 4 button shown 402 The second category includes a key bearing recess 440 in the middle section of the button 402 arranged and for receiving the key bearing pin 407 is provided, a first and a second Führungsstiftausnehmung 442 and 446 in the front section of the button 402 arranged and for receiving a first and second guide pin 444 and 448 are provided, and a Tastenendeausnehmung 450 at the rear end of the button 402 is provided and arranged to save space or compact design of the hammer 404 and the switch device 432 comprehensive unit is provided.

When pressing in the 4 shown electric piano mechanics 400 by pressing the front end of the button 402 (Hitting the button 402 ) raises the rear end portion of it while against the thrust screw 422 of the hammer 404 pushes and thereby the hammer 404 that is around the bearing axis 412 is pivotally mounted, or the hammer head 418 upwards and against the switching device 432 flings. After striking the hammer head 418 at the switching device 432 bounces the hammer head 418 back and gets off the hammer pad 430 intercepted, so the hammer 404 comes to rest and ready or activated for a re-strike the button 402 is.

The JP 2004-020808 A deals with a deliberate change in the stop behavior of the button 402 , Generally, the stop behavior of the button 402 characterized by two physical quantities: on the one hand as a dynamic load at the time of pressing the key 402 in the form of a quick depression of the front portion of the button 402 by a finger of an instrument-player, on the other hand as a static load, when the key 402 is pressed very slowly (depressed). In terms of motion physics, the dynamic load is essentially determined by the weight of the key or the moment of inertia dependent on the weight and the weight distribution over the key. In contrast, the static load is essentially due to the balance of the key bearing pin 407 pivotally mounted key, in other words by the balance between the front (before or in the 4 to the left of the bearing pin 407 arranged) section of the button and the rear (behind or in the 4 right from the bearing pin 407 arranged) section of the button determines.

In the course of further development of the grand pianos or pianos in 19 , In the 19th century, piano makers strived to improve the sound of broken strings, that is to make the perception of the human ear more pleasurable or "fuller" (more pleasing). This was sought by the fact that the weight or the mass (or size) of the hammer head bouncing against the string was made larger and larger. In order to spin an enlarged hammer head by a key of comparable speed as a previously lighter hammer head, ie to activate a heavier hammer by striking the key for pulsed excited pivoting, it was necessary to increase the weight of the key as the weight increased of the hammer or hammer head to enlarge. Accordingly, the keys have been made longer and longer in their longitudinal direction and also higher and higher in their vertical dimension. For an instrument player, the increase in the total weight of the key and hammer meant that the key had to be depressed or depressed in the dynamics of a rapid actuation with increased force. Accordingly, experienced players had to acquire or train more muscle power to move their fingers.

In JP 2004-020808 A It is believed that an experienced player is used to it and accordingly has developed a predilection to operate a key with a relatively high dynamic load, ie a relatively heavy key. This requires a relatively high force in the movement of the fingers, which is difficult for a beginner to provide. The in the JP 2004-020808 A The invention disclosed has been made to solve the problem of adapting a key to the skill and preference of a beginner, namely to operate a key with less effort. To solve this object, it has been proposed to reduce the dynamic load of the key by reducing the weight of the key by removing key material by forming the front and rear through holes 452 and 454 where the size of the front holes 452 and the rear holes 454 and their position relative to the bearing point of the key bearing pin 407 be chosen in a certain symmetry so that the balance of the key, ie the balance between the front and rear key portion is maintained.

However, in order that the according to the in JP 2004-020808 A In addition, while the disclosed invention modified keys of the electric piano also satisfy the preference of an advanced player, the whole remains, by forming the front and rear through holes 452 and 454 achieved weight reduction of each key limited. Measuring the size of the through holes 452 and 454 and the outer dimensions of the button 402 in the 4 shows that the through holes provided for weight reduction 452 and 454 achieved relative weight reduction of the key, ie, the reduction in the weight of the key related to the total weight of the key, about 7.1% (more precisely: 7.10% ± 0.05%).

In comparison, was also by measuring the size of the functional recesses 440 . 442 . 446 and 450 compared to the outer dimensions of the button 402 in the 4 , determines that by the set of functional recesses 440 . 442 . 446 and 450 achieved, relative weight reduction of the key, ie, the reduction in the weight of the key relative to the total weight of the key, about 9.9% (more precisely: 9.90% ± 0.05%). In other words, the targeted with the targeted for weight reduction perforations scored relative Weight reduction is less than the relative weight reduction caused by the functional recesses.

US 5,796,024 discloses a key body of a key in which, for the purpose of adjusting the front weight of the key, first three through holes of the same predetermined diameter and predetermined positions are formed in the front portion of the key. Then, to establish the balance of the key, another through hole is formed for receiving a balance weight of lead at a measured balance-establishing position and the balance weight is inserted and fixed therein. The relative reduction in weight of the key caused by the total of four holes provided is approximately 4.4% (more precisely: 4.40% ± 0.05%).

Disadvantageous with the reference to the 1 to 4 respectively. JP 2004-020808 A and US 5,796,024 The mechanics described are that due to the relatively high weight of a key and a hammer, which has become more and more pronounced in the course of the development of the instruments, the inertia (or moment of inertia), especially of the key, is very high. As a result, the reset time of the key is large and the thus determined repetition frequency small, so that when fast passages of pieces of music that include, for example, sequences of tones to 32 -stel or even 64 -stel notes, tones merge into each other or overlap in time, with In other words, that the individual tones can not be posted individually or temporally resolved. Such impairments of the tone sequences due to the limited upward repetition frequency are not only found in classical piano pieces with fast passages, but also in modern music, such as the piano accompaniment in jazz and rock'n'roll.

A disadvantage of the conventional mechanisms is further that, especially at the high tones, ie the sounds with high sound frequency, which are produced with respect to their length relatively short strings, the sound or the purity of the sound affected to the effect that the sound "impure" or attenuated and dull, which is due to the fact that the attack time of the hammer head on the string in relation to the sound period due to the inertia of the heavy hammer is noticeably long.

In view of the aforementioned disadvantages of the known hammer mechanisms, the present invention is directed to avoiding or at least reducing these disadvantages.

In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a hammer mechanism for striking a string of a keyboard instrument, which allows the striking of a string with higher repetition frequency and better sound purity.

Disclosure of the invention

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a key device for use in a hammer mechanism device for striking a string in a keyboard instrument such as a piano, a grand piano or an electric piano. The key device is pivotally mounted in a keyboard instrument, so that it can be reset in a properly installed in the keyboard instrument state as a result of actuation with a finger pivotable. The key device, by pivoting, can activate a hammer device for striking a string of the keyboard instrument. The key device comprises a key body which is substantially formed of a base material and has a key body full weight determined by a key body full volume given by outer dimensions of the key body and a specific gravity of the base material.

According to the invention, in the key device according to the first aspect, at least one modification is performed on the key body, which is that in or on the key body at least one recess in or a recess of base material is formed and / or that in at least a portion of the key body full volume, the base material a replacement material having a specific gravity lower than the specific gravity of the base material is replaced. Due to the at least one modification made, the weight of the key body is reduced by at least 10% with respect to the weight of the key body without modification.

The invention, at least one modification to the key device has the advantage that with the reduced weight of the key body and the moment of inertia of the key body and the key device and thus the inertia is reduced when pressing the key device, and that the key device after an actuation returns faster to their starting position. Consequently, the key device can be re-operated earlier, in other words, the repetition frequency of the modified key device is increased.

According to a second aspect of the invention, a hammer device adapted to cooperate with a key device, in particular according to the first aspect of the invention, and for striking a string in a keyboard instrument, such as a piano, a grand piano or an electric piano Piano, provided. The hammer device has a total weight and has at least one section made of a base material suitable for this section.

According to the invention, at least one modification is implemented on the at least one subsection of the hammer device, which consists in that at least one recess in or a recess of base material is formed in or on the subsection and / or that the base material is replaced by a replacement material at least in a subregion of the subsection which has a specific weight lower than the specific gravity of the base material is replaced. Due to the at least one modification made, the weight of the hammering device is reduced by at least 10% relative to the total weight of the hammering device without modification.

The invention, at least one modification to the hammer device has the advantage that with the reduced weight of the hammer device and the moment of inertia of the hammer device and thus the inertia in activating the hammer device is reduced due to the actuation of the key device. As a result, the hammer bounces faster from the string and returns faster to its starting position prior to activation. As a result, the key device can be re-operated earlier, accordingly, the repetition frequency of the modified hammer device is increased. In the practical application of hammer devices modified according to the second aspect of the invention, it has surprisingly also been found that the sound beauty or purity of the sound of a string struck with the modified hammer device clearly audibly improves and the volume thus achieved also increases. The improvement in the purity of the sound is due to the fact that the hammering device bounces faster from the struck string and thus less affected or less affected the vibrations of the string. The increase in volume is due to the fact that the faster rebounding hammer lessens and lessens the string than is the case with a prior art unmodified (heavier) hammer device.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a hammer mechanism key device for striking at a high repetition frequency of a string in a keyboard instrument such as a piano, grand piano or electric piano. The method comprises the steps of providing a key device having a key body substantially formed of a base material and having a key body full weight determined by a key body full volume given by outside dimensions of the key body and a specific gravity of the base material.

According to the invention, at least one modification is formed on the key body. This step comprises: in or on the key body, forming at least one recess or recess of base material and / or in at least a portion of the key body full volume, replacing the base material with a replacement material having a specific gravity lower than the specific gravity of the key body Base material is. The at least one modification is performed so that the weight of the key body is reduced by at least 10% without modification based on the weight of the key body.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a hammer mechanism hammering means for striking at a high repetition frequency of a string in a keyboard instrument such as a piano, grand piano or electric piano. The method comprises providing a hammering device having a total weight and having at least one section made of a base material suitable for that section.

According to the invention, at least one modification is then carried out on the at least one section of the hammer device. This step comprises: in or at the subsection, forming at least one recess or recess of base material and / or at least in a subregion of the subsection, replacing the base material with a substitute material having a specific gravity lower than the specific gravity of the subsection Base material is. The at least one modification is carried out so that, due to the same, the weight of the hammer device is reduced by at least 10% without modification, relative to the total weight of the hammer device.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a hammer mechanism for striking a string in a keyboard instrument such as a piano, grand piano or electric piano. The hammer mechanism comprises an assembly of a key device according to the first aspect of the invention and a hammer device according to the first aspect of the invention. The key device comprises a key body, a key storage position, a first, for example, when installed in a keyboard instrument front, key portion and the first key portion opposite, the second, for example, when installed in a Keyboard instrument rear, button section has. In the hammer mechanism, a displacement of the balance position of the key-bearing position of the assembly due to at least one of the weight of the key device and the at least one modification of the weight of the hammer reducing modification is compensated for by the heavier one of the first and second Key portion opposite to the lighter one of the first and second key portions, at least one further weight reduction of the heavier key portion is performed, so that the shifted balance position returns to the original equilibrium position of the key storage position of the assembly prior to carrying out the weight the key device and the hammer-reducing modifications is arranged.

Carrying out the at least one modification which reduces the overall weight of the hammer device according to the second aspect of the invention realizes the advantage thus produced (improvement of the sound purity and increase in volume), especially when the hammer device modified according to the invention is modified together with a hammer device modified according to the first aspect of the invention, ie in weight also reduced key device is used. Prior to performing the modifications to the hammer and key device, the key bearing on the key body was at its equilibrium position. The weight reduction on the hammer displaces this equilibrium position.

In the prior art, it is common to adjust the balance of a key device, with hammering device attached, by placing selected additional weights at selected positions on the lighter portion of the key device. This increases the weight of the key device, which counteracts the beneficial effect of the first and second aspects of the invention. According to the fifth aspect of the invention, the equilibrium is now established by carrying out at the heavier key section a further modification which reduces its weight. This measure according to the fifth aspect acts in the same sense, i. synergetic, with the modifications according to the first and the second aspect of the invention.

• (i) Bereitstellen eines Zusammenbaus von einer Tasteneinrichtung gemäß dem ersten Aspekt der Erfindung und einer Hammereinrichtung gemäß dem zweiten Aspekt der Erfindung, wobei der Tastenkörper eine Tastenlagerposition, einen ersten, beispielsweise beim Einbau in ein Tasteninstrument vorderen, Tastenabschnitt und einen dem ersten Tastenabschnitt entgegengesetzten, zweiten, beispielsweise beim Einbau in ein Tasteninstrument hinteren, Tastenabschnitt aufweist, und wobei eine infolge der mindestens einen der das Gewicht der Tasteneinrichtung verringernden Modifikation und der mindestens einen der das Gewicht der Hammereinrichtung verringernden Modifikation eine Verschiebung der Gleichgewichtsposition der Tastenlagerposition des Zusammenbaus aufgetreten ist,
• (ii) Kompensieren der aufgetretenen Verschiebung der Gleichgewichtsposition der Tastenlagerposition des Zusammenbaus dadurch, dass an dem schwereren einen von dem ersten und dem zweiten Tastenabschnitt, der zu dem leichteren anderen von dem ersten und zweiten Tastenabschnitt entgegengesetzt ist, mindestens eine das Gewicht des schwereren Tastenabschnitt verringernde, weitere Modifikation ausgeführt wird, so dass die verschobene Gleichgewichtsposition wieder bei der ursprünglichen Gleichgewichtsposition der Tastenlagerposition des Zusammenbaus vor dem Ausführen der das Gewicht der Tasteneinrichtung und das der Hammereinrichtung verringernden Modifikationen angeordnet ist.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a hammer mechanism for striking a string in a keyboard instrument such as a piano, grand piano or electric piano. The method comprises the following steps:

• (i) providing an assembly of a key device according to the first aspect of the invention and a hammer device according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the key body has a key bearing position, a key portion facing first when installed in a keyboard instrument, and a key portion opposite to the first key portion; second, for example, when installed in a keyboard instrument rear, key portion, and wherein a due to at least one of the weight of the key device reducing modification and the at least one of the weight of the hammer device reducing modification has occurred a shift of the equilibrium position of the key storage position of the assembly
• (ii) compensating for the occurrence of displacement of the balance position of the key-bearing position of the assembly by at least one of the first and second key portions being opposite to the lighter of the first and second key portions, the heavier one reducing the weight of the heavier key portion Further modification is carried out so that the shifted balance position is again located at the original equilibrium position of the key storage position of the assembly prior to carrying out the modifications of the weight of the key device and the hammer device.

Advantages of the invention

In preferred embodiments to the first and third aspects of the invention, the weight of the key body is at least 15%, more preferably at least 20%, even more preferably at least 30%, even more preferably at least 40%, even more preferably at least 50%, and even more preferably reduced by at least 60%. The greater the decrease in the weight of the key device, the smaller the moment of inertia and inertia of the key device upon activation, as a result of actuation, of the key device, the faster the key device can return to its home position upon actuation and the greater the achievable repetition frequency.

The at least one modification to the key body may be made such that none of the at least one modification alters the outer dimensions of the key body. Alternatively and / or additionally, the at least one modification can also be designed so that all installation dimensions for proper installation of the key device in the intended keyboard instrument are suitable for installation provided devices, such as the key pad and its position, and remain for a connection (or attachment) of the hammer device provided portion of the key body unchanged. Thus, the key device with the modified key body as well as the key device without a modification according to the invention in the keyboard instrument can be installed.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one modification to the key body may include at least one lower-side recess formed in a lower surface of the key body. Such underside recesses are not visible in a built-in keyboard instrument state of the key device or hammer mechanism from the perspective of an instrument-player. Accordingly, the aesthetics of the hammer mechanism, which is often determined by the appearance of the basic material of the key device, such as a wood species, is not affected by the modification.

At least one of the lower-side recesses, preferably each lower-side recess, may be longitudinally extending in a longitudinal direction of the key device. Due to the longitudinally extending recess, a particularly large amount of base material can be removed, in particular with respect to the key body full volume, and thus a relatively large weight reduction can be achieved.

The at least one lower-side recess, in particular each of the lower-side recesses, may have a recess length measured in a longitudinal direction of the key body and at least one recess adjacent in a longitudinal direction of the key body by a portion filled with the base material having a measured pitch in the longitudinal direction of the key body , is separated from each other. In this case, the distance dimension based on the recess length may be less than 20%, preferably less than 15%, more preferably less than 10% and even more preferably less than 5%. The smaller the pitch, the larger the relative proportion of the base material of the key body removed by the recess, and the greater the decrease in the weight of the key body.

The at least one lower-side recess, preferably each of the lower-side recesses, may have a recess width measured in a width direction of the key body. In this case, the recess width relative to a width of the key body measured in the width direction of the key body may be more than 50%, preferably more than 60%, more preferably more than 70%, even more preferably more than 80% and even more preferably more than 90% , The larger the recess width, the larger the amount of removed base material and hence the decrease in the weight of the key body.

In an alternative embodiment, the at least one modification to the key body may include at least one lateral recess formed in at least one side surface of the key body.

At least one lateral recess, preferably each lateral recess, may be substantially cylindrical. Alternatively, at least one lateral recess, preferably each lateral recess, for example, may be longitudinally extending in a longitudinal direction of the key body. In these alternative embodiments, at least two lateral recesses may be formed in the two opposite side surfaces of the key body, and these two lateral recesses, preferably all lateral recesses, may each be formed in pairs opposite each other.

The at least two lateral recesses may for example be cylindrical and in any case have a diameter and a depth measured from the surface of the side surface in a width direction of the key body. In this case, these two lateral recesses may be arranged adjacent to one another in a longitudinal direction of the key body and have a minimum distance measured from one another in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the minimum distance relative to the diameter may be less than 25%, preferably less than 20%, more preferably less than 15%, more preferably less than 10% and even more preferably less than 5%. In this case, moreover, the diameter relative to an outer height of the key body may be more than 75%, preferably more than 80%, more preferably more than 85%, more preferably more than 90%, and even more preferably more than 95%. The smaller the minimum distance between two adjacent side recesses, the more recesses can be made per length of the key body in the key body, the more base material is removed and the greater the decrease in the weight of the key body.

The at least one longitudinal extension formed lateral recess may have a height measured in the direction of a height of the key body. The height of the recess relative to the height of the key body may be more than 75%, preferably more than 80%, more preferably more than 85%, more preferably more than 90% and even more preferably more than 95%.

One or each side recess may have a recess depth measured in a width direction of the key body. In this case, at least one recess depth or the sum of the recess depths of at least two side recesses lying opposite each other in pairs relative to a width of the key body may be more than 50%, preferably more than 60%, more preferably more than 70%, even more preferably more than 80 In one embodiment, the recess depth may be 100%, meaning that the cylindrical recess (s) is / are formed as a through hole. The larger the recess depth of the side recesses, the more base material is removed and the greater the decrease in the weight of the key body.

In yet an alternative embodiment, at least one modification to the key body may include replacement in at least a portion of the key body of base material with a replacement material whose specific gravity is less than the specific gravity of the base material. The replacement of base material with a lighter substitute material has the advantage that no recesses are formed in the key body, therefore, the optical appearance of the key body is maintained, and that the rigidity of the key body is relatively less affected or reduced than in the formation of recesses.

Upon replacement by replacement of base material with replacement material, the key body may have a layered construction comprising at least: a first outer cover layer of the base material, a middle layer of the replacement material, and a second outer cover layer opposite the middle layer of the first cover layer from the base material. In a preferred embodiment, the layered structure of the key body in a width direction of the key body, according to the axis of the key bearing, oriented. In this case, the first outer cover layer may be a left cover layer and the second outer cover layer may be a right cover layer, or vice versa. Alternatively to the orientation of the layered structure in the width direction of the key body, the layered structure may also be in a direction of the height of the key body, i. in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and perpendicular to the key bearing axis of the key body, be oriented.

The base material may be a wood, such as spruce, having a specific weight of 330 kg / m ³ or more. The substitute material may be a wood such as balsa wood having a specific gravity of 200 kg / m ³ or less. Typically, the replacement material, especially if it is balsa wood, may have a specific gravity that is about one third of the specific gravity of the base material, which is a wood such as spruce wood.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, underside recesses are provided in the key body, which each extend over a significant portion of the first (front) key portion or a significant portion of the second (rear) key portion. Particularly advantageous for achieving the largest possible weight reduction is in the first (front) and in the second (rear) key portion in the bottom of the key body each provided a lower-side recess, which has a substantial proportion, for example at least 70% or at least 80% or at least 90th %, the length of each of the first and second key sections.

In the embodiments in which underside recesses are provided in the key body, at least one lower-side recess may at least partially, in particular substantially completely, be filled with a replacement material. The replacement material has a lower specific weight than the base material. Advantageously, the replacement material is a foamed material, such as XPS, or other material containing a variety of pores. A foamed material, such as XPS, has an even lower specific gravity than a light wood, such as balsa wood. XPS (an extruded polystyrene rigid foam) is a foamed material developed for thermal insulation, which has a specific weight of about 30 kg / m ³ to about 40 kg / m ³ , typically about 35 kg / m ³ , and the particularly easy for the intended use here is processable. The filled with replacement material lower recess may be covered with a cover. For an unobtrusive appearance and for maintaining external dimensions, the cover may be arranged substantially flush with a bottom surface of the key body. The filling of the recess with the replacement material gives the key body increased stability. The covering with the cover provides protection of the replacement material and gives the button device a more aesthetic appearance.

In preferred embodiments of the second and fourth aspects of the invention, the weight of the hammer device is at least 20%, more preferably at least 30%, even more preferably at least 40%, even more preferably at least 50% and even more preferably at least 60% % reduced. The bigger the The reduction of the weight of the hammer device, the smaller the moment of inertia and the inertia of the hammer device when activating the hammer device as a result of an actuation of the key device, the faster the hammer device can rebound to its starting position after striking a string, the greater the achievable repetition frequency, and the purer the sound of a struck string becomes, especially in the sense that harmonics are excited with less sound intensity or virtually no harmonics.

The hammer device according to the second aspect of the invention may include a pivot bearing end portion, a hammer shaft extending from the end portion, and a hammer head disposed at a distal end of the hammer shaft for striking the string. The hammer head may have a, in particular tapering to its distal end or tapered, hammer fin with a stop portion for striking the string and a hammer track identify. The pivotal bearing (or bearing side) end portion, the hammer shank and the hammer head may be formed of a base material (hammer base material) such as wood

Accordingly, a modification to the hammer device according to the second or fourth aspect of the invention may decrease, such as recessing or recessing the base material, or at least partially replacing the base material with a substitute material having a lower specific gravity than that of FIG Base material, be executed. The partial sections of the hammer device, namely the bearing-side end region, the hammer shaft, the hammer head, a stop section for striking a string, can also be formed from different starting materials which are respectively suitable with regard to the respective function or stress of a partial section. Accordingly, modification to the hammer device according to the second or fourth aspect of the invention can also be carried out specifically for each of the subsections by making recesses or scooping in each of the subsections in or on the starting material respectively incorporated therein or the respective built-up starting material by a respective one Substitute having a lower specific gravity than the respective starting material to be replaced.

Further or alternatively, modifications to the hammer means may include one or more of the following: (a) a recess of hammer base material on or a recess of base material in the bearing end portion, (b) a recess of base material on the hammer shaft, (c) a replacement the hammer handle from the base material by a hammer handle made of a substitute material, the replacement material having a specific gravity that is lower than the specific gravity of the base material, (d) a recess of base material on the hammer head, in particular in the region of the hammer fin, (e) a recess of base material on the hammer head in a region of a connecting portion with the hammer shank, and (f) a recess of base material on the hammer track, especially in a portion of the hammer path facing a hammer resting pad of the hammer mechanism.

The hammer head can at least in a stopper portion which contacts the string when striking, wherein the stopper portion having a filled with a cushioning material portion and a cushion cover. The upholstery cover can be made of felt or leather. Correspondingly, a modification to the hammer device may be one of the following: (g) a recess of material (cushioning material) from the padding filled portion, (h) a removal of cushioning pad material, in particular at least partial removal of felt or abrasion of Leather, (i) a recess of padding material, in particular by grinding away padding material, preferably over the entire outer surface of the padding material, and (j) a padding material of the padding coating only in areas outside of that portion of the padding coating when impacted the hammer head touches the string.

The hammer mechanism may further comprise means for adjusting the balance (or balancing) of the assembly comprising the key direction and the hammer device, in the state mounted in a keyboard instrument and in particular pivoted state, or at least in the state of assembly in which this with its key bearing a bearing base is pivotally mounted include. In one embodiment, compared to the weight reducing recesses, the balance adjustment means comprises one or more relatively small balance compensation recesses and respective recesses associated therewith, one or more balancing weight bodies. A balance compensating recess may be formed in an end portion of the key body in the front or rear end portion. A Balanceausgleichsausnehmung may be substantially cylindrical, for example as a bore, or thread-shaped as a bore with an internal thread, or as a slot. A respective body is provided in one of Balance compensation recesses are arranged and secured therein. Several bodies can have different weights. Correspondingly, a respective body may be formed with a shape complementary to the shape of the balance compensation recess, for example in the form of a pin, a screw or a plate, respectively.

In one embodiment, the balance adjustment means may comprise one or more bores at each end of the key device. These holes can serve as a receptacle for different weight screws for more refined weight matching. Depending on the requirement, one of the screws is inserted into one or more of the bores for achieving the balance of a key device (eg piano key) mounted by means of the key bearing device, such that the key device is mounted on a bearing base with respect to a pivotable mounting, with the key bearing of the key device being mounted on a bearing base. in balance, ie in balance, is. It has been found advantageous to evaluate the impact force of the key device (key) by means of an electronic sound recording, whereby the sound recording is visualized by means of a graphical representation on a display device, such as a screen.

As a further step of the method according to the third or fourth aspect of the invention, a sound recording may be performed for which a hammer mechanism modified according to the invention, i. an assembly consisting of a modified according to the invention key device and a (optionally modified according to the invention) hammer device has been properly installed in a keyboard instrument for striking a string and then recorded the resulting when hitting the string due to an operation of the built-in hammer mechanism sound waves. At this time, in particular, a sound intensity of a string struck at a repetition frequency by means of the hammermechanical device may be measured and recorded as a function of time for a predetermined period of time comprising a predetermined plurality of string stoppers. Such a sound recording can show that with a high repetition frequency successively struck tones do not overlap in time, or can show from which repetition frequency tones begin to overlap and therefore lead to loss of sound.

As still another step of the method according to the third or fourth aspect of the invention, a sound recording can be evaluated in such a way that it is checked on the basis of the sound recording, whether one or more sound intensity curves, which are associated with a stop of the string, a sound intensity curve, which is assigned to a subsequent stop of the string, is superimposed / are.

Furthermore, in the method, when superimposing is detected in the checking, one or more further modifications of the present invention may be performed on the key device, particularly the key body, and / or on the hammer device. Although a hammer device has been provided, modifications according to the invention or further modifications thereof may also be carried out thereon. Subsequently, the carrying out of a sound recording and the described evaluation of the sound recording can be repeated until no more superimposition (of successive tones) is determined during the evaluation or during the checking.

• (A) Herstellen einer Hammermechanik als einen Zusammenbau aufweisend die Tasteneinrichtung und die Hammereinrichtung und ordnungsgemäßes Einbauen der Hammermechanik in ein Tasteninstrument,
• (B) Durchführen einer Tonaufzeichnung, umfassend Messen und Aufzeichnen einer Schallintensität von Schallwellen, die von einer der Hammermechanik zugeordneten Saite des Tasteninstruments, die wiederholt mit einer hohen Repetitionsfrequenz mittels der Hammermechanik angeschlagen wird, erzeugt werden, als Funktion der Zeit und für eine Zeitdauer, die eine Mehrzahl von Saitenanschlägen umfasst.

More specifically, the method according to the second aspect and the method according to the fourth aspect may further comprise the steps of:

• (A) manufacturing a hammer mechanism as an assembly comprising the key device and the hammer device and properly installing the hammer mechanism in a keyboard instrument,
• (B) performing a sound recording comprising measuring and recording a sound intensity of sound waves generated by a string of the keyboard instrument associated with the hammer mechanics that is repeatedly hit at a high repetition frequency by the hammer mechanism, as a function of time and for a period of time, which includes a plurality of string stops.

• (C) auf der Grundlage der Tonaufzeichnung, Überprüfen, ob ein Schallintensitätsverlauf, der durch einen Anschlag der Saite erzeugt wird, von einem Schallintensitätsverlauf, der durch einen nachfolgenden Anschlag derselben Saite erzeugt wird, überlagert ist.

The methods according to the second and fourth aspects may still further comprise:

• (C) on the basis of the sound recording, Checking whether a sound intensity profile, which is generated by a stop of the string, of a sound intensity profile, which is generated by a subsequent stop of the same string superimposed.

• (D) wenn beim dem Schritt (C) eine Überlagerung festgestellt wird, Ausführen von mindestens einer weiteren Modifikation an dem Tastenkörper und/oder von mindestens einer Modifikation an der Hammereinrichtung, und
• (E) wiederholtes Ausführen der Schritte (A) bis (C), bis bei dem Überprüfen im Schritt (C) keine Überlagerung mehr festgestellt wird.

The methods according to the second and fourth aspects may still further comprise:

• (D) if an overlay is detected in step (C), performing at least one further modification to the key body and / or at least one modification to the hammer means, and
• (E) repeatedly performing steps (A) through (C) until no more interference is detected in the checking in step (C).

Brief description of the figures

Embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show it:

1 a side view of a conventional, designed as a bounce mechanism hammer mechanism,

2 a side view of a conventional, designed as a jack mechanism hammer mechanism,

3 a side view of a conventional, executed as a piano mechanics hammer mechanism,

4 a side view of a conventional, designed for use in an electric piano hammer mechanism,

5A a perspective view of a modified according to the invention hammer mechanism in which underside recesses are formed in the key body,

5B a section of a longitudinal section of the key body of the 5A .

5C a cross section of the key body of the 5A , cut in the in 5B level 5C-5C,

6A a perspective view of a modified according to the invention hammer mechanism in which the key body lateral recesses are formed,

6B a section of a side view of the key body of the 6A in which, in an alternative embodiment, cylindrical lateral recesses are formed,

6C a cross section of the key body of the 6B , cut in the in 6B level 6C-6C,

6D a section of a side view of a modified according to the invention key body, in which instead of in the 6A to 6C shown, lateral recesses rectangular, lateral recesses are formed,

6E a cross section of the key body of the 6D , cut in the in 6D level 6E-6E shown,

6F a section of a side view of a modified according to the invention key body, in which instead of in the 6A to 6C shown, lateral recesses rectangular, lateral recesses in one opposite the 6D and 6E modified embodiment are formed,

6G a cross section of the key body of the 6F , cut in the in 6F shown level 6G-6G,

7A a perspective view of a modified according to the invention hammer mechanism, according to the invention is replaced in a portion of the key body material according to the invention by a substitute material with a lower specific weight,

7B a perspective view of a portion of the key body of the 7A seen from obliquely laterally on the key body,

7C a cross section of the key body of the 7B , cut in the in 7B level 7C-7C,

8A a view of an underside of a modified according to the invention key body in which in a first and second key portion, ie on both sides of a key storage position, each having a plurality of lower side, extending in a longitudinal direction of the key body recesses are formed

8B a view of an underside of a modified according to the invention key body, wherein in each of a first and second key portion, ie on both sides of a key storage position, a lower side, is formed in a longitudinal direction of the key body recess formed

8C a cross section of the key body of the 8A and 8B , cut in the in the 8A and 8B level 8C-8C,

8D a cross section of the key body of the 8A and 8B , cut in the in the 8A and 8B shown level 8D-8D,

9A a side view of an inventively modified hammer device, which on a rear end portion of the key body of the 5A is arranged and in which a weight-reducing modification is formed on the hammer handle,

9B a plan view of the hammer device of the 9A .

9C a cross section through the hammer device of the 9A , cut in the in 9B level 9C-9C,

9D a plan view as in the 9B to a hammer device according to the invention with a modification of the hammer handle according to another than that in the 9A shown embodiment,

9E a cross section through the hammer device of the 9D , cut in the in 9D level 9E-9E shown,

10A a side view of an inventively modified hammer device, which on a rear end portion of the key body of the 5A is arranged and are formed in the inventive modifications to the hammer fin of the hammer head,

10B a side view of an inventive modified hammer head with other weight-reducing modifications of the Hammerfine as in the 10A .

10C a side view of a hammer head, in the inventive modifications to the Hammerfine according to other than in the 10A and 10B shown embodiments are formed,

10D a cross section through the hammer head from the 10C , cut in the in 10C shown level 10D-10D,

10E a side view of a hammer device, which on a rear end portion of the key body of the 5A is arranged and are formed in the inventive modifications to the hammer fin and on the hammer path of the hammer head,

10F a side view of a hammer head, in the inventive modifications to the hammer track according to other than in the 10E shown embodiments are formed,

10G a view of the hammer head from the 10F , seen in the 10F direction 10G-10G or in the direction of the hammer handle,

10H an enlarged view of a hammer head, in the inventive modifications to the hammer track according to still other than in the 10E and 10F shown embodiments are formed,

10I a cross section of the hammer head from the 10H , cut in the in 10H level 10I-10I shown,

10J a cross section of the hammer head from the 10H , cut in the in 10H shown level 10J-10J,

11A an enlarged view of a hammer head, are formed in the inventive modifications to the pad cover of the hammer fin,

11B an enlarged view of a hammer head, in the inventive modifications to the pad cover of the hammer fin according to other than in the 11A shown embodiments are formed,

12A a side view of a conventional hammer mechanism, comprising a key device and a hammer device, according to a so-called "Viennese mechanics" or bouncing mechanism, without any modification according to the invention,

12B a side view of the invention modified hammer mechanism of the 12A comprising a key device on which modifications according to the first and third aspects of the invention are carried out, and a hammer device on which modifications according to the second and fourth aspects of the invention are made,

13A a side view of a conventional hammer mechanism comprising a key device and a hammer device, according to a so-called "English Mechanics" or jack mechanism, without any modification according to the invention,

13B a side view of the invention modified hammer mechanism of the 13A comprising a key device on which modifications according to the first and third aspects of the invention are carried out, and a hammer device on which modifications according to the second and fourth aspects of the invention are made,

14A a sound recording in which a built-in a wing, according to the invention and as in 12B shown modified Hammer mechanism was operated with a high repetition frequency, the hammer head instead of striking a string strikes against a thin board of wood, and

14B a sound recording in which a built-in a wing, according to the invention and as in 12B shown modified hammer mechanism was operated with a high repetition frequency, the hammer head properly strikes a string.

Embodiments of the invention

The in the 1 to 4 Hammer mechanisms of the prior art have already been described above, so that a description is not repeated here.

The 5A to 5C show a hammer mechanism according to the invention 10 intended for striking a string in a keyboard instrument such as a piano, grand piano or electric piano. The hammer mechanics 10 basically includes a key device 12 , which is pivotally mounted in the keyboard instrument, and a hammer device 16 that of the key device 12 pivotable and by pressing the button device 12 is activatable. The key device 12 is in a state properly installed in the keyboard instrument as a result of operation with a finger by means of a key bearing device 14 resettable pivotable. The key device 12 comprises a first (front) key section, which, from the perspective of a player properly recording the instrument, is placed in front, ie before (and in 5A , as well in the 6A and 7A to the right of) the key support device 14 is arranged, and a second (rear) key portion, the rear from the perspective of the instrument properly record player, ie behind (and in 5A , as well in the 6A and 7A to the left of) the key support device 14 is arranged. The hammer device 16 is by means of a hammer bearing device arranged on a distal end portion of the second (rear) key portion 18 pivotally mounted and installed so that they by an operation with pivoting the key device 12 can be activated and on one of the hammer mechanism associated string of the keyboard instrument (in a grand piano or piano) or on an associated switching device (in an electric piano) can strike, as the above with reference to the 1 to 4 has been explained. For a wing is the hammer device 16 on the back section of the key device 12 arranged like that in the 5A . 6A and 7A shown (and with respect to 1 and 2 described). In a piano, the hammer means is disposed behind and / or over the second (rear) key portion of the key device so as to be activated by pivoting up this key portion and striking against an associated string (as with reference to FIG 3 described). In an electric piano, the hammer means is disposed behind and / or over the second (rear) key portion of the key device so as to be activated by pivoting up the second (rear) key portion of the key device and abutting against an associated indexing device (as with reference to FIG 4 described).

The key storage device 14 includes a key base 20 standing on a rack (in the 5A . 6A and 7A not shown) of a keyboard instrument (eg, a grand piano, piano, or electric piano) is arranged and fixed, a key bearing pin 22 that is made up of the key bed base 20 out and vertically upward, one in a center portion of the key body 30 , at a designated key storage position 27 trained pin receiving recess 28 in which the key bearing pin 22 is recorded when the key device 12 is properly installed in the keyboard instrument, and a pen support device 24 placed on top of the key body 30 is attached, the pin receiving recess 28 covered and in which the recess 28 overlapping portion on a top end portion of the key bearing pin 22 rests. Thus, the entire key device is located 12 on the key bearing pin 22 on and is about a key bearing axis 28 at the designated key pad position 27 is arranged, perpendicular to the key bearing pin 22 and perpendicular to a longitudinal direction 32 of the key body 30 is aligned, is pivotally mounted.

The key device 12 includes the key body 30 , which basically consists of a basic material 80 is formed and has a key body full weight. The basic material 80 In a conventional grand piano or piano, wood, typically spruce wood, is typically a synthetic resin in an electric piano. The key body full weight is by a key body full volume and by a specific weight of the base material 80 certainly. The key body full volume is essentially determined by its outer dimensions (L30, B30, H30). The outer dimensions essentially comprise one in the longitudinal direction 32 measured length L30, one transverse to the longitudinal direction 32 (parallel to the pivot axis 28 ) measured width B30 and one perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 32 and height H30 of the key body measured to the measuring direction of the width 30 , The external dimensions (length L30, width B30, height H30) of the key body 30 are for those in the 5A to 7A shown embodiments of the key body 30 shown by way of example and representatively.

According to the first aspect of the invention are on the key body 30 carried out one or more modifications, which are aimed at the key body full volume or the specific gravity of a subsection of the key body 30 reduce the weight of the key body 30 or the key device 12 (and thus their moment of inertia for rotation about the key bearing axis 28 ) to achieve. As explained above, the aim is to reduce the weight of the key body 30 on the moment of inertia and thus the inertia of the key device 12 to reduce so that they return to their initial position after a pivoting operation faster and consequently a higher repetition frequency when striking the button can be achieved. According to the invention, the weight of the key body 30 not just a little, but considerably reduced, in such a way that the weight of the key body 30 is reduced by at least 10% relative to the key body full weight. Such weight reduction is significantly greater than that provided by recesses in the key body which are known in the art and serve purposes other than the weight reduction intended by the invention and the increase in repetition frequency caused thereby. In more preferred embodiments, the weight of the key body is 30 based on the weight of the key body 30 without modifications or the key body full weight even by at least 20%, more preferably by at least 30%, even more preferably by at least 40% (such as in the in 8A even more preferably by at least 50%, and even more preferably by at least 60% (such as in the embodiment shown in FIG 8A shown embodiment), reduced.

As in the 5A to 7C As shown, the modifications are made such that by the modification on the key body 30 the outer dimensions (L30, B30, H30) of the key body 30 and in particular all for proper installation of the key device 12 in the intended keyboard instrument to be observed mounting dimensions, the facilities provided for installation, such as the key pad and its position 27 , and for the connection of the Hammeinchtung 16 provided portion of the key body 30 remain unchanged. Basically, two types of modifications can be distinguished. On the one hand, a modification to the key body 30 consist in that one or more recesses in, or decreases (Materialabnehmungen) of, the base material 80 to reduce the key body volume or the key body 30 fulfilling basic material 80 are formed. Alternatively or additionally, a modification may be made to the key body 30 also consist in a section of the key body 30 the basic material 80 through a substitute material 82 that has a specific gravity that is less than the specific gravity of the base material 80 is to replace.

In the in the 5A to 5C shown embodiment of the hammer mechanism according to the invention comprise the modification according to the invention on the key body 30 a plurality of lower side recesses 60 placed in a bottom surface of the key body 30 are formed. At least one of the lower side recesses 60 (and in the 5A each bottom recess 60 ) is formed substantially longitudinally extending and preferably rectangular. Instead of in the 5A to 5C shown, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 32 aligned flat surfaces of the lower side recesses 68 can also be semi-cylindrical surfaces, for example, by the introduction of holes in the bottom of a key body 30 arise (and are not shown in the figures) may be provided.

As in the 5B and 5C shown has each of the lower-side recesses 68 one in the longitudinal direction 32 of the key body 30 measured recess length L60. Further, in the longitudinal direction 32 adjacent recesses 60 through a section made of the basic material 80 exists and one in the longitudinal direction 32 measured distance A60 (length of the section), separated from each other. Still further, each of the lower side recesses 60 one in a direction of the width of the key body 30 (ie, substantially parallel to the direction of the pivot axis 28 of the key body 30 ) measured recess width B60. To maximize the through the recesses 60 achieved weight reduction is the distance measure A60 based on the recess length L60 less than 25%, preferably less than 20%, more preferably less than 15%, more preferably less than 10% and even more preferably less than 5%. In the same sense, the recess width is B60, based on the width B30 of the key body 30 , more than 50%, preferably more than 60%, more preferably more than 70%, even more preferably more than 80% and even more preferably more than 90%.

An example is given below, with details for typical external dimensions of the key body 30 and preferred dimensions of the lower side recesses 60 and a reduction in the weight of the key body achieved thereby 30 calculated.

Typical exterior dimensions of a key body made of wood, typically spruce wood 30 are, for example, for a grand piano originating from the 19th century Bösendorfer, L30 = 550 mm, B = 11 mm, H30 = 25 mm. For wood as base material, the following dimensions were found to be advantageous: L60 = 50 mm, H60 = 22 mm, B60 = 8 mm and A60 = 6 mm. Such sizing in practice compromises between a desired maximization of weight reduction and a remaining stability and rigidity of the invention key body 30 The resulting relative weight reduction, ie the weight or volume of in the form of the lower side recesses 60 with the specified dimensions removed base material 80 , relative to the original weight or volume of the key body 30 without modification in a portion of the key body 30 with in the longitudinal direction 32 regularly adjacent to each other arranged lower side recesses 60 is about 57%.

In the in the 6A to 6C shown embodiment of the hammer mechanism according to the invention 10 include the modifications to the key body 30 a plurality of lateral recesses 70 , These are in at least one side surface of the key body 30 educated. They can also be designed as through holes. In the 6A to 6C are the lateral recesses 70 essentially cylindrical, with two lateral recesses in each case 70 in the two opposite side surfaces of the key body 30 , and in pairs are formed opposite each other.

As in the 6B and 6C shown has each of the lateral recesses 70 a diameter D70 and one from the surface of the side surface in a direction of the width of the key body 30 measured depth T70. Two each in the longitudinal direction 32 of the key body 30 adjacent recesses arranged 70 have one in the longitudinal direction 32 measured, minimum distance A70. To maximize the through the lateral recesses 70 weight reduction achieved, the minimum distance A70 between two recesses in relation to their diameter is less than 25%, preferably less than 20%, more preferably less than 15%, more preferably less than 10% and even more preferably less than 5%. In the same sense, a recess depth T70 or the sum of the recess depths T70 of two mutually opposite, lateral recesses 70 based on the width B30 of the key body 30 more than 50%, preferably more than 60%, more preferably more than 70%, even more preferably more than 80%, even more preferably more than 90%. This ratio may even more preferably be 100%, ie the lateral recess 70 is formed as a through hole.

For the concerning the 5A to 5C already mentioned, from a concert grand piano Bösendorfer from the 19th century originating, exemplary key body 30 , the external dimensions L30 = 550 mm, B = 11 mm, H30 = 25 mm and wood as base material 80 have been, the following dimensions were for the lateral recesses 70 found to be advantageous: D70 = 15 mm, A70 = 5 mm and T70 / 2 = 5 mm (ie 2 × T70 = 10 mm). Such sizing in practice compromises between a desired maximization of weight reduction and residual stability and rigidity of the key body 30 The resulting relative weight reduction, ie the weight or volume of in the form of the lateral recesses 70 removed base material 80 in a section of the key body 30 with in the longitudinal direction 32 regularly adjacent to each other arranged recesses 70 relative to the original weight or volume of the key body 30 without modification is about 30%.

In one in the 6D and 6E shown change in the 6A to 6C The embodiments shown are the lateral recesses 70 substantially rectangular and in the longitudinal direction 32 of the key body 30 formed longitudinally. At least in the longitudinal sections of the key body 30 in which there are no functional recesses, such as the pin receiving recess 26 the key storage device 14 or in the front portion of the key body provided Führungsstiftausnehmungen are formed, which are in the 6D and 6E shown lateral recesses 70 formed continuously, so that the cross-sectional profile of the key body 30 in the first (front) and second (rear) key portion has the shape of a horizontal H, as in the 6E shown.

The rectangular and longitudinal extension formed lateral recesses 70 have one in a direction of height H30 of the key body 30 measured height H70. To maximize the through the rectangular and longitudinal extension lateral recesses 70 achieved weight reduction is the height H70 of the recess 70 based on the height H30 of the key body 30 more than 75%, preferably more than 80%, more preferably more than 85% and even more preferably more than 90%.

For the already mentioned, from a concert grand piano Bösendorfer from the 19th century originating, exemplary key body 30 having the outer dimensions L30 = 550 mm, B = 11 mm, H30 = 25 mm and wood as a base material, the following dimensions of the rectangular and longitudinal side recesses 70 found to be advantageous: H70 = 22 mm and T70 = 4.5 mm (ie 2 × T70 = 9 mm). Such sizing in practice compromises between a desired maximization of weight reduction and residual stability and rigidity of the key body 30 The resulting relative weight reduction, ie the weight or volume of in the form of the laterally extending lateral recesses 70 removed base material 80 based on the weight or volume of the key body 30 without modification, in a section of the key body 30 with in the longitudinal direction 32 continuous recesses 70 , is about 72%.

In one in the 6F and 6G shown, further modification of the in the 6A to 6D The embodiments shown are the lateral recesses 70 also substantially rectangular and in the longitudinal direction 32 of the key body 30 longitudinally extending, and at least in the longitudinal sections of the key body 30 , in which no functional recesses are formed, formed continuously, so that the cross-sectional profile of the button carrier 30 has the shape of a standing T, as in the 6G shown. The with the design of the lateral recesses 70 according to the 6F and 6G resulting relative weight reduction is obviously even greater than in the embodiment according to the 6D and 6E and is about 77%.

In the in the 7A to 7C shown embodiment of the hammer mechanism according to the invention comprises the modification on the key body 30 a replacement, at least in one section 76 of the key body 30 , of basic material 80 through a substitute material 82 , The replacement material 82 has a specific gravity that is less than the specific gravity of the base material 80 is. Here is the key body 30 in its width direction, a layered structure 72 , This includes a first (in 7C left) outer cover layer 74 consisting of the base material 80 , a middle class 76 consisting of the replacement material 82 and one with respect to the middle class 76 the first cover layer 74 opposite, second (in 7C right) outer cover layer 78 consisting of the base material 80 ,

It should be noted that a layered structure instead of in the direction of the width of the key body 30 , or parallel to the direction of the key bearing axis 28 , and as in the 7A to 7C also shown in a direction of the height H30 of the key body 30 that is, in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 32 and perpendicular to the key bearing axis 28 , can be oriented.

In the already mentioned, from a grand piano of the company Bösendorfer from the 19 , Century originating, exemplary key body 30 is the basic material spruce wood, which has a specific weight of about 470 kg / m ³ in the dried state. In the modification according to the in the 7A to 7C embodiment shown is the replacement material 82 Balsa wood. Its specific gravity is about 100 kg / m ³ . This value is less than one third of the specific gravity of the base material 80 , ie spruce wood.

For the example already mentioned key body 30 , which has outside dimensions L30 = 550 mm, B = 11 mm, H30 = 25 mm and the wood as a base material due to the modification 80 in the outer layers 74 and 78 and balsa wood as substitute material 82 in the middle class 76 The following dimensions of the layered structure were found to be advantageous in practice: D74 = D78 = 1 mm and D76 = 10 mm. The resulting relative weight reduction, ie the weight of the layered construction 72 Based on the original design without modification, which consists entirely of the basic material wood, is about 45%.

In the in 8A shown embodiment are in the key body 30 lower recesses 60 are provided, each extending over a significant portion of the first (front) key portion and a significant portion of the second (rear) key portion. In a particularly advantageous for achieving the largest possible weight reduction embodiment, the in 8B is shown in the first (front) and in the second (rear) key portion of the key body 30 in each case only a lower-side recess 60 However, this length portion may be at least 70%, preferably at least 80% and even more preferably at least 90% of the length of the respective key portion.

In the in the 5A to 5C . 8A and 8C shown embodiments in which underside recesses 60 in the key body 30 are provided, at least one lower-side recess 60 , and preferably each lower-side recess 60 , at least partially with a substitute material 61 be filled. In the embodiments of the 5A to 5C can the bottom recesses 60 essentially complete with replacement material 61 be filled. The replacement material 61 has a lower specific gravity than the base material 80 , The filling of the recess 60 with the replacement material 61 gives the key body 30 an increased stability.

In the in the 8A and 8B The embodiments shown are those with replacement material 61 filled, underside recesses 60 with a cover 62 covered. In these embodiments, each lower-side recess is 60 except for the section covered by a cover 62 is essentially completely filled with substitute material. For an unobtrusive appearance and to maintain outer dimensions is the cover 62 flush with the underside surface of the key body 30 in the recess 60 arranged.

In the in the 8A and 8B shown embodiments is in the bottom of the first (front, in the 8A and 8B left) button section is still a Balanceausgleichsausnehmung 64 educated. This recess 64 is with a filler 65 filled and comes with a cover 67 covered. The filling material 65 is a very compliant material, such as a foamed material. This allows for a balance adjustment weight 66 , which is formed in particular a pin-shaped or helical, for adjusting the balance of the key device 30 in terms of storage in the key storage position 27 in a simple manner in the filler 65 can be pushed in, as best in 8C shown.

In the 8A and 8B is the basic material 80 of the key body 30 Wood, in particular spruce wood, which has a specific weight of about 470 kg / m ³ . In one embodiment, the replacement material is a light wood, such as balsa wood, having a specific gravity of about 100 kg / m ³ . The cover is plywood, which preferably gives the modification a visually inconspicuous appearance, of the same material as the base material 80 of the key body 30 is made. By means of this embodiment, the weight of a key device of a classical grand piano, which was without modification about 125 grams, could be reduced to about 72 grams. The achieved weight reduction is therefore 53 grams or about 42%.

As a substitute material 61 for filling underside recesses 60 and also as a filler 65 in the balance compensation recess 64 Alternatively, a foamed material, such as XPS (extruded polystyrene foam), or other, containing a plurality of pores material may be provided. A foamed material, such as XPS, has an even lower specific gravity than a light wood, such as balsa wood. The specific gravity of XPS is about 30 kg / m ³ to about 40 kg / m ³ , and typically about 35 kg / m ³ . By means of this embodiment, the weight of a key device of a classical grand piano, which was without modification about 125 grams, could be reduced to about 49 grams. The achieved weight reduction is therefore 76 grams or about 61%.

The overlap of a lower-side recess 60 with a cover 62 or covering the balance compensation recess 64 with a cover 67 , protects the replacement material 61 or the filling material 65 , respectively, and gives the button device 30 an aesthetic appearance.

As already mentioned, the hammer mechanism according to the invention 10 with the inventively modified key device 12 also a hammer device modified according to the invention 16 exhibit. The inventively modified hammer device 16 , as well as the well-known hammers 104 . 204 . 304 . 404 from the 1 to 4 , respectively, is provided for striking an associated string of a keyboard instrument. The hammer device 16 can in terms of the button device 12 be installed in various installation positions or in various uses in a keyboard instrument, as in the 1 to 4 based on the hammers shown therein 104 . 204 . 304 and 404 , respectively, is shown.

In any case, a hammer device according to the invention 16 in a state properly installed in the keyboard instrument by means of one on the second (rear) key portion of a key device 12 arranged hammer bearing device 18 pivoted. In the 5A . 6A . 7A . 9A . 10A . 11A and 11B is the hammer device 16 on the distal end portion of the second (rear) key portion of the key body 30 arranged what the in the 1 shown, known bouncing mechanism 100 equivalent. The hammer device according to the invention 16 however, may be relative to the key device 12 or the key body 30 also according to a known jacking mechanism 200 (please refer 2 ), a piano mechanic 300 (please refer 3 ) or an electric piano mechanism 400 (please refer 4 ) can be installed in a corresponding keyboard instrument.

Regardless of its various uses, a hammer device according to the invention comprises 16 the following subsection: an end section comprising a pivot bearing (or bearing side) 46 , one from the end section 46 extending hammer handle 50 and one at a distal end of the hammer handle 50 arranged hammer head 51 with a stopper section 54 for striking the string. The hammerhead 51 includes, similar to a classic hammer tool, a tapered hammer fin 52 and one of these oppositely arranged hammer track 53 , The hammer fin includes the stopper portion 54 , which is at least partially covered with a stop pad for striking a string. The stop pad typically comprises a padding filler 55 who was on the hammer fin 52 is attached, and a cushion cover 56 who needs the padding filler 55 Covered and touched when striking the string or strikes at this. Of the bearing-side end portion 46 , the hammer handle 50 and the Hammerfinne 52 and the Hammerbahn 53 comprehensive hammer head 51 generally consist of a base material suitable for use. The base material is usually the same base material as that of the key body 30 typically wood (for classic keyboard instruments) or synthetic resin (for electric pianos and some newer pianos). For classic keyboard instruments, the cushion filler is made 55 usually made of compressed cotton (cotton fibers, felt, cotton wool) and the padding cover 56 made of felt 57 or leather 58 , The hammer device 16 has a by external dimensions of the sections and by the specific weights of the materials incorporated therein (base material, such as wood 80 , compressed cotton 55 , Felt 57 and leather 58 ) given total weight.

At the hammer device 16 According to the invention, one or more modifications are formed. These modifications may generally be a reduction in the form of a recess in or a recess in the hammer device 16 used base material 80 . 55 . 57 . 58 be, like in the 9A to 9E . 10A to 10J such as 11A and 11B shown.

By the above modifications, the weight of the modified hammer device becomes 16 based on the total weight of the unmodified hammer device 16 reduced by at least 10%. In preferred embodiments, the weight of the modified hammer device is 16 by at least 20% (as in the in 9B in conjunction with in 10C in the embodiment shown), more preferably by at least 30%, more preferably by at least 40%, more preferably by at least 50%, and even more preferably by at least 60% (such as in US Pat 12B and 13B shown embodiment) with respect to an unmodified hammer device 16 reduced.

The in the 9A to 10J illustrated, modifications of the hammer device according to the invention 16 generally include a diminishing of that in a respective subsection 46 . 50 . 51 and 54 the hammer device 16 built base material 80 . 57 . 58 , by one or more deductions 84 . 86 . 90 . 92 . 94 from and / or one or more recesses 88 in the respective basic material.

The in the 9A . 9B and 9D shown modifications to the hammer device 16 include a recess of recess in the base material 80 , typically wood, at the bearing end portion 46 (eg at 84 in the 9A . 9B and 9D ), on the hammer handle 50 (at 86 in the 9A to 9E ). In the 9A to 9C has the hammer handle 50 originally a round cross-sectional profile, and the recess 86 of basic material 80 on the hammer handle 50 It consists of material evenly in the radially inward direction from all sides of the hammer handle 50 remove so that the diameter or radius of the hammer handle 50 is reduced as best in the 9C shown.

A hammer handle 50 made of wood, as it was typically installed in classical keyboard instruments, for example, originally has a diameter in the range of 4.5 mm to 8 mm, the diameter of the hammer handle 50 for the low-pitched hammer devices (for striking relatively long strings) are larger and smaller for the high-pitched hammer devices (for striking relatively short strings). At the decreases 86 of base material on wooden hammer shanks, it has been found that the diameters can typically be reduced to values in the range of 2.5 mm to 4.0 mm, with the hammer shank 50 still maintains a necessary stability (bending and breaking strength). For some of the built in classic keyboard instruments hammers 16 have the hammer handles 50 a course of the modified cross-sectional profile, such as a course of the original diameter, over the length of the hammer handle 50 , and of a larger diameter at the bearing-side end portion 46 (for example, 5.6 mm for a hammer associated with a low tone and 4.9 mm for a hammer associated with a high tone) to a smaller diameter at the hammer head 51 (For example, 5.0 mm for a hammer associated with a low tone and 4.6 mm for a hammer associated with a high tone). By an inventive removal of material on the hammer handle 50 can be the diameter of a hammer handle 50 made of wood at the bearing end section 46 typically at 4.5 to 5.0 mm for a hammer associated with a low tone, and 4.2 mm to 4.6 mm for a hammer associated with a high tone, and at the hammerhead end typically at 4, 0 to 4.5 mm for a hammer associated with a low tone and reduced to 3.5 mm to 4.0 mm for a hammer associated with a high tone.

In the 9D and 9E has the hammer handle 50 originally a rectangular cross-sectional profile. The recess 86 of basic material 80 on the hammer handle 50 It consists of material evenly from both sides of the hammer handle 50 to remove, leaving a width of the hammer handle 50 is reduced as the best in 9E is shown. Similar to hammerstems with a round cross-sectional profile can also at a Hammerstiel 50 with a rectangular cross-sectional profile, the profile a course, in particular a course of the width, over the length of the hammer handle 50 exhibit. For example, runs in a developed from another classic grand piano hammer device 16 in the profile of the hammer handle 50 its width from a larger width (for example, 5.0 mm to 6.0 mm) at the bearing-side end portion 46 to a smaller width (for example, 4.0 mm to 5.0 mm) at the hammer head 52 , By an inventive removal of material on the hammer handle 50 can be the width of a rectangular hammer handle 50 made of wood at the bearing end section 46 typically 3.5 to 4.0 mm, and typically reduced to 3.0 mm to 4.0 mm at the hammerhead end, as in US Pat 9D shown.

The in the 10A to 10G illustrated, modifications of the invention on the hammer device 16 include one or more decreases 90 . 92 . 94 from or one or more recesses 84 in base material 80 in different sections 52 . 53 . 55 . 56 of the hammerhead 51 ,

In the 10A to 10D include those on the hammer head 51 executed modifications recesses 88 of basic material (wood) 80 at the Hammerfinne 52 , In the 10A and 10B are the recesses 88 ' cylindrical, in the form of a plurality of perforations 88 ' educated. This can be the through holes 88 ' have different diameters. In the 10C and 10D are recesses 88 '' on either side of the Hammerfinne 52 boat-shaped, and adapted in this form to the tapered shape of the hammer fin 52 formed, wherein the cross-sectional profile of the hammer fin 52 has the shape of an H, as in 10D shown.

In the 10E is a recess 90 at the Hammerfinne 52 , at the Hammerstiel 50 facing side, between the entrance of the hammer handle 50 and the approach of the cushion cover 56 or in the area around a connecting section with the hammer handle 50 educated. In the 10E are also decreases 92 at the Hammerbahn 53 , on the one hand, the Hammerstiel 50 facing side (recess 92 ' ) and on the other hand at the Hammerstiel 50 facing side (recess 92 '' ) formed, in such a way that a hammerbahnseitige edition of the hammer head 51 or the Hammerbahn 53 on a hammer head pad 44 remains the same in the sense that the hammer device 16 or the hammer handle 50 , with unchanged position of the hammer bearing axis 40 or the hammer bearing pin 42 , its inclination angle with respect to the key body 30 maintains.

In the 10F and 10G are decreases 92 . 92 ''' at the Hammerbahn 53 , in a hammer rest pad 44 facing section of the hammer track 53 , formed, on both sides of the hammer track 53 or the hammer head 51 in a substantially symmetrical manner, so that in a plane perpendicular to the hammer handle 50 a cross-sectional profile of the hammer track 53 arises, which is similar to a V with a blunt tip, like that in 10G is shown. As a result, remains the hammer track side edition of the hammer head 51 or the Hammerbahn 53 on the hammerhead pad 44 the same in the sense that the hammer device 16 or the hammer handle 50 , with unchanged position of the hammer bearing axis 40 or the hammer bearing pin 42 , its inclination angle with respect to the key body 30 maintains.

In the 10H to 10J are two deductions 92 . 92 ' at the Hammerbahn 53 , in a hammer rest pad 44 facing section of the hammer track 56 , formed, on both sides of the hammer track 53 or the hammer head 51 in a substantially symmetrical manner, so that in a plane perpendicular to the hammer handle 50 a modified cross-sectional profile of the hammer track 53 arises, as in the 10I and 10J shown. Unlike in the 10F and 10G the deductions extend 92 ' not over the entire (in the direction of the hammer handle 50 seen) length of the hammer track 53 , but only over the Hammerstiel 50 facing section of this length, as in 10H shown. Accordingly, in a the hammer handle 50 opposite section of this length, the cross-sectional profile of the hammer track 53 unchanged, as in the 10J shown what causes the hammer track side support of the hammer head 51 or the Hammerbahn 53 on the hammerhead pad 44 remains the same in the sense that the hammer device 16 or the hammer handle 50 , with unchanged position of the hammer bearing axis 40 or the hammer bearing pin 42 , its inclination angle with respect to the key body 30 maintains.

Like that in the 9A . 10A to 10C . 10E . 10F and 10H is shown is the hammer head 51 at least in a portion of the stopper portion 54 , which touches a string when striking, of a padding filler 55 and a cushion cover 56 , overdrawn. At a hammerhead 51 a classical keyboard instrument is the padding filler 55 made of compressed cotton (cotton fibers) and the padding cover 56 made of felt 57 leather 58 educated.

In the 11A and 11B is shown to be a modification to the hammer device 16 also a reduction of basic material 57 . 58 of the upholstery cover 56 may include. This is through a Slimming felt 57 or leather 58 executable. In 11A is a modification of the hammer head according to the invention 51 the hammer device 16 in the form of a recess 94 of material 57 . 58 , the upholstery cover 56 in areas outside of that section when hitting the hammer head 51 touched a string, being in the section that hits the hammer head 51 the string touches, the upholstery cover 56 is not removed or remains unchanged. In the 11B is a modification on the hammer head 51 in the form of a recess 94 ' of material 57 respectively. 58 of the upholstery cover 56 by grinding away material 57 or 58 of the upholstery cover 56 over the entire outer surface of the cushion cover 56 executed.

In other embodiments, which are not shown in the figures, is in at least a portion of a modified hammer device 12 According to the invention, a base material incorporated therein replaced by a replacement material having a lower specific gravity than the base material. For example, a hammer handle 50 made of wood by a hammer handle, which is made of a carbon fiber material to be replaced. Because carbon fiber material has much higher strength and rigidity than wood, a hammer stem (not shown) made of carbon fiber material may have a smaller cross-section, eg a smaller diameter in the case of a round cross-sectional profile than the wood hammer stem it replaces. A hammer handle made of carbon fiber material may have a cross-sectional profile which is hollow inside. In other words, a hammer handle made of carbon fiber material may be tubular or formed as a tube.

The individual hereinbefore described, weight-reducing modifications to the various sections 46 . 50 . 51 . 52 . 53 . 55 and 56 a hammer device 12 can also work in a hammering facility 12 combined, like that in the 12A and 12B as well as in the 13A and 13B is shown.

The 12A and 12B each show one executed according to the principle of the bounce mechanism (or Viennese mechanics) hammer device. The 12A shows a hammer device without any modification according to the invention. The 12B shows a hammer device 12 from the in 12A shown hammering device by forming a combination of modifications according to the invention, ie there were modifications in the end section 46 , on the hammer handle 50 and at the hammerhead 51 executed. In the in 12B shown hammer device 12 are several deductions 84 at the bearing end portion 46 a recess 86 on the hammer handle 50 , Removals 90 at the Hammerfinne 52 , Removals 94 at the stop section 56 , especially on the padding filler 55 and on the upholstery cover 56 , as well as deductions 92 at the Hammerbahn 53 executed. In a still further improved embodiment, the hammer handle is 50 made of wood replaced by a tubular hammer handle. In the 12A shown, original hammer device had a weight of 12.4 grams. After carrying out the above-described modifications, the in 12B shown hammer device 12 a weight of 4.1 grams. The weight reduction achieved here is thus about 67%.

The 13A and 13B each show one executed according to the principle of the jack mechanism (or English mechanics) hammer device. The 13A shows such a hammer device without any modification according to the invention. The 13B shows a hammer device 12 from the in 13A shown hammering device by forming a combination of modifications according to the invention, ie there were modifications in the end section 46 at which the jack-carrying section 48 ' , on the hammer handle 50 and at the hammerhead 51 executed. In the in 12B shown hammer device 12 are several deductions 84 at the bearing end portion 46 , Removals 90 at the Hammerfinne 52 , Removals 94 at the stop section 56 , especially on the padding filler 55 and on the upholstery cover 56 , as well as deductions 92 at the Hammerbahn 53 executed. Further, the hammer handle 50 made of wood replaced by a tubular hammer handle. In the 13A shown, original hammer device had a weight of 14.1 grams. After carrying out the above-described modifications, the in 13B shown hammer device 12 a weight of 4.9 grams. The weight reduction achieved here is thus about 65%.

As in the 5A . 6A and 7A hinted, the hammer mechanics 10 medium 63 for adjusting a balance (or balance) of the key direction 12 with respect to a pivotable storage of the same at its key storage position 27 on a key bearing pin 22 a key bearing device connected to the keyboard instrument 14 include. In one embodiment, the balance adjusting means comprise 63 in contrast to the invention as large as possible executed, weight-reducing recesses 60 and 70 in the key body 30 one or more relatively small balance compensation recesses 64 and associated therewith, one or more balancing weights serving as a balance weight 66 that are at least partially in the respective balance compensation recesses 64 are introduced. A balance compensation recess 64 may be in an end portion of a respective key portion of the key body 30 , in the first ( front) or second (rear) key portion, ie in front of or behind the key storage device 14 be educated. In the 5A . 6A and 7A are balance compensation recesses 64 in the form of holes in the key body 30 educated. In each case, a Balanceausgleichsausnehmung 64 in the front and one in the rear key portion of the key body 30 , For refined weight adjustment or fine adjustment of the balance on the key bearing pin 22 the key storage device 14 pivotally mounted key device 30 can balance balancing weights 64 which serve as a balance weight, as the weight of different screws may be provided as needed to establish the balance (or balance) of the key device 30 in the balancing recesses (bores) 64 be introduced or screwed.

It has proven to be advantageous if the impact of the key device (key) 30 and their weight (fine) tuning or balance using an electronic sound recording 95 is evaluated. This is the sound recording 95 by means of a graphical representation on a display device, such as a screen, made visible as shown in the 14A and 14B is shown by way of example. A subsequent fine tuning (of the weight or balance) carried out after carrying out modifications according to the invention is, in particular, if the base material 80 Wood is, therefore, necessary, because by the different fibrillation of wood a different moisture absorption take place (or have taken place) and thereby the weight ratios (at different key bodies 30 which are assigned to different strings or pitches or notes) may be slightly different. Such a fine tuning is even by an exact mechanical prefabrication (the key body 30 ) not possible. By means of an electric sound recording 95 can, for example in the form of a graphical representation on a screen, the impact (on the achieved volume) and the number of hits (or repetition frequency) of the hammer mechanism 10 (comprising a key device 12 and a hammer device 16 ) can be determined exactly. Sound losses are also localizable (recognizable). Furthermore, the sound quality, in particular with regard to volume and sound purity, can be checked. A fine adjustment of the impact force of the hammer mechanism 10 comprising a key device modified according to the invention 12 and a hammer device modified according to the invention 16 , for example, by means of a reduction (removal) or addition of balance balancing weights 64 in a respective end portion of the first (front) and second (rear) key portions of the key body 30 be achieved.

By means of sound recordings 95 with the in the 14A and 14B illustrated graphic representation method could be demonstrated that with a hammer mechanism 10 one from the 19 , Century-based concert grand piano carried out modifications to the weight reduction at the key device 12 (see eg 8B ) and at the hammer device 16 (see eg 12B ) an increase of the repetition frequency or the speed of play of fast passages of pieces of music of more than 100% with respect to the possible maximum repetition frequency, which could be achieved with an original hammer mechanism without without inventive, weight-reducing modification is achieved. Regardless of the nature of the hammer mechanics (bouncing mechanics or jacking mechanics), such sound recordings could 95 and measurements are proven that could be achieved with the hammer mechanisms of the concert grand piano without modification at the high tones only a repetition frequency of 3.8 stops per second and the low tones only a repetition frequency of 3.6 stops per second, without it Sound losses come. After carrying out weight-reducing modifications of the key device according to the invention 12 (according to 8B ) and on the hammer device (according to 12B ) was on the grand piano a repetition frequency of more than 8 attacks per second, when recorded by a skilled musician even reached more than 9 attacks per second. In a classical piano (piano) originating from about the same time, the repetition frequency could even be increased to about. Due to the execution of modifications according to the invention on the key device and on the hammer device 14 Stops are increased per second. Simultaneously with the increase in the repetition frequency, an increase in the volume, in particular in the case of the high tones, and an audible improvement in the sound purity can also be ascertained.

In detail, the show 14A and 14B sound recordings 95 , which was obtained with a grand piano, in which a hammer mechanism modified according to the invention 10 has been installed as a replacement for an original hammer mechanism. The inventively modified hammer mechanism 10 included a key device 30 , which according to the in 8B has been modified, and a hammer device 16 , which according to the in 12B embodiment has been modified. Every sound recording 95 shows a recorded with a microphone, from the grand piano when hitting the hammer mechanism 10 generated sound intensity (I) 96 as a function of time (t) 97 represents, for a period of time, a plurality of keystrokes 99 includes. The sound intensity (I) 96 is along the vertical Axis in arbitrary units (English: arbitrary units) and the time (t) 97 along the horizontal axis in units of one second. Single keystrokes 99 are in the shown intensity curves (measuring curves) 98 of the 14A and 14B as spikes with a particularly high sound intensity I clearly visible. At the in 14A shown sound recording hit the hammer head 51 the modified the hammer mechanics 10 against a thin wooden board. At the in 14B shown sound recording hit the hammer head 51 against the hammer mechanics 10 properly assigned string of the concert grand piano.

The for the in the 14A and 14B shown sound recordings 95 used hammer mechanism 10 was the key no. 81 (F major) of the concert grand piano. Comparable results like those in the 14A and 14B However, they were also achieved with the hammer mechanics of all other keys (tones). The increase of the repetition frequency and the improvements of the sound image were especially for the treble strings (corresponding to the 12 highest notes) assigned hammer mechanisms (keys) particularly pronounced.

In 14A It can be seen that when you hit the thin board, the keystrokes 99 were performed at a repetition frequency of about 9.0 to 9.1 stops per second, and that the sound intensity of each preceding keystroke has largely subsided before a new keystroke 99 follows. Thus, it is shown that even with the repetition frequency of about 9 characters per second realized here, the keystrokes 99 are individually perceptible and do not overlap in time, ie there are no sound losses.

In 14B It can be seen that when you hit the string, the keystrokes 99 were performed with a repetition frequency of about 8.9 to 9.2 stops per second, and that in this case, the sound intensity of each preceding keystroke has largely subsided before a new keystroke 99 follows. The 14B shows that even with the realized here repetition frequency of about 9,2 attacks per second keystrokes 99 on a properly struck string are individually perceptible and no sound losses occur.

With comparable sound recordings as those in the 14A and 14B It could be shown that for hammer mechanisms where the in 12B shown modifications have been performed, the repetition frequency can be increased even further, to about 14 Strokes per second, with the sound intensity of each preceding keystroke has subsided for the most part before a new keystroke 99 follows, in other words that the tone stops 99 are individually perceptible, without any loss of sound occur.

In 14B can be recognized with every keystroke 99 a first spike, followed by a second and with some keystrokes a third spike. In the perception with the ear, this corresponds to a fuller, lingering, pure tone. It has been found that improving the quality of the sound image in terms of volume and sound purity, which with a modified according to the invention hammer mechanism as in 14B is shown, or the sound difference between a modified hammer mechanism and a hammer mechanism without modification, even more pronounced in the high notes of the grand piano than in the low tones.

Overall, the modifications of the key device according to the invention (according to the first and third aspects of the invention) and the hammer device (according to the second and fourth aspects of the invention) increase the repetition frequency more than twice and significantly improve the quality of the sound image , in terms of volume and sound purity, especially at the high tones (at the treble sides) achieved.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

 hammer Action

12

 key means

14

 Key storage facility

16

 hammer device

18

 Hammer storage facility

20

 Buttons bearing base

22

 Buttons bearing pin

24

 Pin support device

26

 pin receiving recess

27

 Key storage position

28

 Buttons bearing axis

30

 key bodies

L30

 Length of the key body

B30

 Width of the key body

H30

 Height of the key body

32

 Longitudinal direction of the key body

34

 Hammer bearing base

36

 Hammer bearing carrier

38

 Hammer camp capsule

40

 Hammer bearing axis

42

 Hammer bearing pin

44

 Hammer head cushion

46

 end

48

 Prell tongue

50

 Hammerstiel

51

 hammerhead

52

 hammer peen

53

 peen

54

 stop section

55

 cushion filler

56

 cushion cover

57

 felt

58

 leather

60

 lower recess

L60

 Length of a lower-side recess

B60

 Width of a lower-side recess

T60

 Depth of a lower-side recess

A60

 Distance between two lower-side recesses

61

 substitute

62

 cover

63

 Balanceeinstellmittel

64

 Balanceausgleichgewichtausnehmung

65

 filling material

66

 Balanceeinstellgewicht

67

 cover

68

 Stiftaufnahmeaufnehmung

70

 lateral recess

D70

 Diameter of a lateral recess

T70

 Depth of a lateral recess

H70

 Height of a lateral recess

B70

 Width of an intermediate wall

A70

 minimum distance between two lateral recesses

72

 layered construction

74

 first cover layer

D74

 Thickness of the first cover layer

76

 middle class

D76

 Thickness of the middle layer

78

 second cover layer

D78

 Thickness of the second cover layer

80

 base material

82

 substitute

84

 Recess or recess on the bearing-side end portion

86

 Recess on the hammer handle

86 '

 tubular recess

86 ''

 lateral recess

88

 Recess in the hammer fin

88 '

 cylindrical recess

88 ''

 boat-shaped recess

90

 Recess at the hammer fin

92

 Recess at the Hammerbahn

92 '

 the hammer handle facing the recess

92 ''

 the hammer handle facing away from the recess

92 '' '

 lateral recess on the hammer track

94

 Recess of material on the stop section

94 '

 Recess over the entire outer surface

94 ''

 Recess outside the Berührabschnitts

95

 Tonauzeichnung

96

 Sound intensity (I)

97

 Time (t)

98

 Intensity curve (trace)

99

 keystroke

100

 Bouncing mechanism (prior art)

101

 wing base

102

 button

104

 hammer

106

 key storage

108

 bearing bracket

110

 camp capsule

112

 bearing axle

114

 rear end or beak

116

 Hammerstiel

118

 hammerhead

120

 Prell tongue carrier

122

 Prell tongue

124

 Damper carrier or damper dummy

126

 damper

128

 Hammerhead catcher

130

 Hammer rest cushion

132

 string

134

 feather

200

 Jacking mechanism (prior art)

201

 wing base

202

 button

204

 hammer

206

 Key end upholstery

208

 bearing bracket

210

 camp capsule

212

 bearing axle

214

 joint area

216

 Hammerstiel

218

 hammerhead

220

 Stoßzungeneinstellschraube

222

 jack

224

 Jack axis

226

 Jack pad

228

 Hammerhead catcher

230

 Hammer rest cushion

232

 string

234

 feather

300

 Piano mechanics (prior art)

301

 piano base

302

 button

304

 hammer

306

 Key end upholstery

308

 bearing bracket

310

 camp capsule

312

 bearing axle

314

 joint area

316

 Hammerstiel

318

 hammerhead

320

 Stoßzungeneinstellschraube

322

 jack

323

 Jack carrier

324

 Jack axis

326

 Jack pad

330

 Hammer rest cushion

332

 string

334

 Jack spring

336

 damper

337

 damper handle

338

 shock mounting

339

 damper axis

340

 damper spring

342

 Damper actuator

400

 Electric piano mechanics (prior art)

401

 Electric piano base

402

 button

403

 key pad

404

 hammer

406

 key storage

407

 Buttons bearing pin

408

 Hammer bearing carrier

410

 camp capsule

412

 bearing axle

416

 Hammerstiel

418

 hammerhead

422

 impact screw

430

 Hammer rest cushion

432

 switch

440

 Tastenlagerausnehmung

442

 first Führungsstiftausnehmung

444

 first guide pin

446

 second Führungsstiftausnehmung

448

 second guide pin

450

 Tastenendeausnehmung

452

 front through hole

454

 rear hole

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• JP 2004-020808 A [0013, 0015, 0017, 0019, 0019, 0020, 0023]
• US 5796024 [0022, 0023]

Claims (12)

Key device ( 12 ) for use in a hammer mechanism ( 10 ) for striking a string in a keyboard instrument, such as a piano, grand piano or electric piano, the key device ( 12 ) is pivotally mounted in a keyboard instrument and comprising: a key body ( 30 ), which consists essentially of a basic material ( 80 ) and has a key body full weight, which has a by external dimensions (L30, B30, H30) of the key body ( 30 ) predetermined key body full volume and a specific weight of the base material is determined, characterized in that on the key body ( 30 ) at least one modification ( 68 . 70 . 72 ), which consists in that in or on the key body ( 30 ) at least one recess in or a recess of base material ( 80 ) is formed and / or that in at least a portion of the key body full volume, the base material ( 80 ) by a substitute material ( 61 ), which has a specific gravity lower than the specific gravity of the base material, and that, due to the at least one modification made, the weight of the key body ( 30 ) based on the weight of the key body ( 30 ) without modification by at least 10%, preferably by at least 15%, more preferably by at least 20%, even more preferably by at least 30%, even more preferably by at least 40% and even more preferably by at least 50%. Button device according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one modification on the key body ( 30 ) at least one lower-side recess ( 60 ) located in a lower surface of the key body ( 30 ), wherein in particular the at least one lower-side recess ( 60 ), preferably each lower-side recess ( 68 ), in a longitudinal direction ( 32 ) of the key device ( 30 ) is longitudinally extending, and more preferably at least one lower-side recess ( 60 ) at least partially, in particular substantially completely, with a replacement material ( 61 ), which has a lower specific gravity than the base material, and in particular those with substitute material ( 61 ) filled lower recess ( 60 ) with a cover ( 67 In particular, substantially flush with a bottom surface of the key body (FIG. 30 ), is covered, and / or more preferably at least one lower-side recess ( 60 ) one in a longitudinal direction ( 32 ) of the key body ( 30 ) has a measured recess length (L68) and of at least one in a longitudinal direction ( 32 ) of the key body ( 30 ) adjacent recess ( 60 ) by one of base material ( 80 ), which is one in the longitudinal direction ( 32 ), wherein the distance measure (A60) relative to the recess length (L60) is less than 20%, preferably less than 15%, more preferably less than 10% and even more preferably less than 5 %, and / or even more preferably at least one lower-side recess ( 68 ) one in a width direction of the key body ( 30 ) and the recess width (B60) relative to a widthwise direction of the key body (B68) 30 ) measured width (B30) of the key body ( 30 ) is more than 50%, preferably more than 60%, more preferably more than 70%, even more preferably more than 80% and even more preferably more than 90%. Button device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one modification on the key body ( 30 ) at least one lateral recess ( 70 ) in at least one side surface of the key body ( 30 ) is formed, and preferably wherein the at least one lateral recess ( 70 ), preferably each lateral recess ( 70 ), is substantially cylindrical, or the at least one lateral recess ( 70 ), preferably each lateral recess ( 70 ), in a longitudinal direction of the key body ( 30 ) is longitudinally extending, and more preferably at least two lateral recesses ( 70 ) in the two mutually opposite side surfaces of the key body ( 30 ) are formed, and that these two lateral recesses ( 70 ), preferably all lateral recesses ( 70 ), in pairs, are formed opposite one another, and / or even more preferably at least two lateral recesses ( 70 ) are cylindrical and have a diameter (D70) and a width from the outer surface of the side surface in a width direction of the key body (FIG. 30 ) have measured depth (T70) and that these two lateral recesses ( 70 ) in a longitudinal direction ( 32 ) of the key body ( 30 ) are arranged adjacent to each other and one in the longitudinal direction ( 32 ), and wherein the minimum distance (A70) relative to the diameter is less than 25%, preferably less than 20%, more preferably less than 15%, more preferably less than 10% and even more preferably less than 5%, and wherein the diameter (D70) relative to a height (H30) of the key body ( 30 ) more than 75%, preferably more than 80%, more preferably more than 85%, more preferably more than 90%, and more preferably more than 95%, or at least one lateral recess ( 70 ) is longitudinally extending and one in the direction of a height (H30) of the key body ( 30 ) measured height (H70), and wherein the height (H70) of the recess (H70) 70 ) relative to the height (H30) of the key body ( 30 ) is more than 75%, preferably more than 80%, more preferably more than 85%, more preferably more than 90% and even more preferably more than 95%, and / or wherein a lateral recess ( 70 ) one in a width direction of the key body ( 30 ) has at least one recess depth (T70) or the sum of the recess depths (T70) of at least two side recesses (FIG. 70 ) relative to a width (B30) of the key body ( 30 ) is more than 50%, preferably more than 60%, more preferably more than 70%, even more preferably more than 80%, even more preferably more than 90%, and in particular still more preferably 100%, ie one or more two paired cylindrical recesses ( 70 ) is / are formed as a through hole. Button device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one modification on the key body ( 30 ) a replacement in at least one subsection ( 76 ) of the key body ( 30 ) of basic material ( 80 ) by a substitute material ( 61 . 82 ) whose specific gravity is less than the specific gravity of the base material ( 80 ), and wherein preferably the key body ( 30 ), in particular in the direction of a width of the key body ( 30 ), a layered structure ( 72 ), comprising at least the following: a first, in particular left, outer cover layer ( 74 ) from the base material ( 80 ), a middle class ( 76 ) from the substitute material ( 82 ) and one concerning the middle class ( 76 ) of the first cover layer ( 74 ) opposite, second, in particular right, outer cover layer ( 78 ) from the base material ( 80 ), and / or more preferably the base material ( 80 ) a wood, such as spruce, having a specific weight of about 330 kg / m ³ to about 470 kg / m ³ , and that the substitute material ( 82 ) is a wood, such as balsa wood, which has a specific gravity of about 100 kg / m ³ to about 200 kg / m ³ , or that the specific gravity of the replacement material ( 82 ) about one third or less of the specific gravity of the base material ( 80 ) having. Hammer device ( 16 ) intended for striking a string in a keyboard instrument such as a piano, grand piano or electric piano, the 16 ) has a total weight and at least one subsection ( 46 . 50 . 51 ) made of a base material suitable for this section, characterized in that on the at least one partial section ( 46 . 50 . 51 ) at least one modification ( 84 . 86 . 88 . 90 . 92 . 94 ), which consists in that in or at the subsection ( 46 . 50 . 51 ) at least one recess in or a recess of base material is formed and / or that at least in a partial region of the subsection ( 46 . 50 . 51 ) the base material is replaced by a replacement material having a specific gravity lower than the specific gravity of the base material, and that due to the at least one modification carried out ( 84 . 86 . 88 . 90 . 92 . 94 ) the weight of the hammer device ( 16 ) relative to the total weight of the hammer device ( 16 ) is reduced by at least 10%, preferably by at least 20%, more preferably by at least 30%, even more preferably by at least 40%, even more preferably by at least 50% and even more preferably by at least 60% without modification. Hammer device according to claim 5, comprising a pivot bearing end portion (Fig. 46 ), move away from this end section ( 46 ) extending hammer handle ( 50 ) and one at a distal end of the hammer handle ( 50 ) arranged hammer head ( 51 ), a hammer fin ( 52 ) with a stop section ( 54 ) for striking the string and a hammer track ( 53 ), characterized in that the at least one modifications to the hammer device ( 16 ) comprises one or more of the following: (a) a recess ( 84 ) of base material on or a recess of base material in the end portion ( 46 ), (b) a recess ( 86 ) of base material on the hammer handle ( 50 ), (c) replacing the hammer handle ( 50 ) of base material by a hammer handle made of a replacement material, the replacement material having a specific gravity lower than the specific gravity of the base material, (d) a recess ( 90 . 92 ) of base material on the hammer head ( 51 ), especially in the area of the hammer fin ( 52 ), (e) a recess ( 90 ) of base material on the hammer head ( 51 ) in the region of a connecting section with the hammer handle ( 50 ), and (f) a recess ( 92 . 94 ) of base material at the Hammerbahn ( 53 ), in particular in a hammer resting pad ( 44 ) of hammer mechanics ( 10 ) turnable section of the hammer track ( 53 ). Hammer device according to claim 5 or 6, comprising a hammer head ( 51 ), which has a stop section ( 54 ) for striking the string, wherein the stopper portion ( 54 ) one with a padding filler ( 55 ) satisfied section and one Cushion cover ( 56 ), for example made of felt ( 57 ) or leather ( 58 ), characterized in that at least one modification to the hammer device ( 16 ) comprises one or more of the following: (g) a recess of material from the padded filler material ( 55 ) satisfied section, (h) a removal of material of the cushion cover ( 56 ), in particular an at least partial removal of felt ( 57 ) or a sanding of leather ( 66 ), for example over an entire outer surface of the cushion cover ( 56 ), and (i) at least partially scavenging the padding material ( 56 ) in areas outside of the section, which when striking the hammer head ( 51 ) touched the string. Hammer mechanics ( 10 ) for striking a string in a keyboard instrument, such as a piano, grand piano or electric piano, comprising: an assembly of a key device ( 12 ) according to one of claims 1 to 4 and a hammer device ( 16 ) according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein in particular the key device ( 12 ) a key body ( 30 ) having a key pad ( 27 ), a first, for example, when installed in a keyboard instrument front key portion and the first key portion opposite, second, for example, when installed in a keyboard instrument rear, key portion, and due to the at least one of the weight of the key device ( 12 ) reducing modification and the at least one of the weight of the hammer device ( 16 ) decreasing modification occurred shift of the balance position of the key storage position ( 27 ) of the assembly is compensated for by performing at least one of the first and second key portions opposite to the lighter one of the first and second key portions, further modifying the weight of the heavier key portion, further modifying the shifted equilibrium position again at the original equilibrium position of the key storage position ( 27 ) of the assembly before carrying out the weight of the key device ( 12 ) and that of the hammer device ( 16 ) reducing modifications is arranged. Method for producing a key device ( 12 ) for a hammer mechanism ( 10 ) for striking at a high repetition frequency of a string in a keyboard instrument, such as a piano, piano or electric piano, the method comprising: providing a key device ( 12 ) with a key body ( 30 ), which consists essentially of a basic material ( 80 ) and has a key body full weight, which has a by external dimensions (L30, B30, H30) of the key body ( 30 ) predetermined key body full volume and a specific weight of the base material, characterized by forming at least one modification to the key body ( 30 ) in or on the key body ( 30 ), Forming at least one recess or recess of base material ( 80 ) and / or in at least a portion of the key body full volume, replacing the base material ( 80 ) by a substitute material ( 61 ) having a specific gravity which is lower than the specific gravity of the base material, the weight of the key body being due to the at least one modification carried out ( 30 ) based on the weight of the key body ( 30 ) without modification by at least 10%, preferably by at least 15%, more preferably by at least 20%, even more preferably by at least 30%, even more preferably by at least 40% and even more preferably by at least 50%. Method for producing a hammer device ( 16 ) for a hammer mechanism ( 10 ) for striking a string of a keyboard instrument, such as a piano, grand piano or electric piano, the method comprising: providing a hammer device ( 12 ), which has a total weight and at least one subsection ( 46 . 50 . 51 ) made of a base material suitable for this section characterized by forming at least one modification ( 84 . 86 . 88 . 90 . 92 . 94 ) on the at least one subsection ( 46 . 50 . 51 ), comprising: in or at the subsection ( 46 . 50 . 51 ), Forming at least one recess or recess of base material and / or at least in a partial region of the partial section ( 46 . 50 . 51 ), Replacement of the base material by a substitute material having a specific gravity lower than the specific gravity of the base material, and due to the at least one modification carried out ( 84 . 86 . 88 . 90 . 92 . 94 ) the weight of the hammer device ( 16 ) relative to the total weight of the hammer device ( 16 ) is reduced by at least 10%, preferably by at least 20%, more preferably by at least 30%, even more preferably by at least 40%, even more preferably by at least 50% and even more preferably by at least 60% without modification. A method according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising: (A) producing a hammer mechanism ( 10 ) as an assembly comprising the key device ( 12 ) and the hammer device ( 16 ) and proper installation of the hammer mechanism ( 10 ) into a keyboard instrument, (B) performing a sound recording ( 95 ), comprising measuring and recording a sound intensity ( 96 ) of sound waves produced by one of the hammer mechanics ( 10 ) associated string of the keyboard instrument, which repeatedly with a high repetition frequency by means of the hammer mechanism ( 10 ) is generated, as a function of time ( 97 and for a period of time comprising a plurality of string stops, and in particular the method further comprises: (C) based on the sound recording, checking whether a sound intensity profile generated by a stop of the string is from a sound intensity progression is produced by a subsequent abutment of the same string, and wherein in particular the method still further comprises: (D) if an overlay is detected in step (C), carrying out at least one further modification on the key body ( 30 ) and / or at least one modification to the hammer device ( 16 ), and (E) repeatedly performing steps (A) through (C) until no more interference is detected in the checking in step (C). Method for producing a hammer mechanism ( 10 ) for striking a string in a keyboard instrument, such as a piano, grand piano or electric piano, the keyboard instrument comprising a key pad ( 20 ) for storing a hammer mechanism, the method comprising: (i) providing an assembly of a key device ( 12 ) according to one of claims 1 to 4 and a hammer device ( 16 ) according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the key body ( 30 ) a key storage position ( 27 ), a first, for example, when installed in a keyboard instrument front key portion and the first key portion opposite, second, for example, when installed in a keyboard instrument rear, key portion, wherein due to the at least one of the weight of the key device ( 12 ) reducing modification and the at least one of the weight of the hammer device ( 16 ) modification, a shift of the balance position of the key storage position (FIG. 27 ) of the assembly, (ii) compensating for the occurring shift of the balance position of the key-bearing position ( 27 ) of the assembly in that, on the heavier one, one of the first and second key portions opposite to the lighter one of the first and second key portions, at least one further weight reduction of the heavier key portion is made further modification so that the shifted one Equilibrium position again at the original equilibrium position of the key storage position ( 27 ) of the assembly before carrying out the weight of the key device ( 12 ) and that of the hammer device ( 16 ) reducing modifications is arranged.

Images