EP3984018B1 - Multi-axis foot pedal for electric musical instruments - Google Patents

Description

technical field

The present invention relates to a control device for controlling a sound of an electric musical instrument. In particular, the present invention can relate to a foot pedal for controlling two or more manipulated variables for interactive sound shaping of an electrically amplified musical instrument.

State of the art

In many cases, the sound of a musical instrument is amplified electrically and the sound is changed electrically (e.g. effect device). Depending on the equipment used, the change in sound can be changed in one or more manipulated variables. The human-machine interface is usually implemented using control elements such as rotary knobs, switches/buttons or graphical user interfaces. For many instrumentalists, only a few of these manipulated variables are directly accessible when playing music, since both hands are used to play the instrument (e.g. guitar). An alternative possible input option that can be operated at the same time is the use of foot pedals.

In addition to pure switching functions, swell pedals are common for continuously adjusting the volume ("volume pedal"), a variable filter ("wah-wah") or another variable ("expression pedal"). What they all have in common is that they are limited to a single continuously adjustable variable, which can be supplemented with a switching function if necessary.

On some electronic musical instruments, one encounters the ability to manipulate two or more quantities using a trackpad/touchpad or pointing instrument. These controls offer far-reaching possibilities for influencing the sound, but must be operated with the hands and are therefore not practical for many instrumentalists.

US 8,338,689 B1 discloses: There is provided a music control device for an electric instrument having at least two multi-axis position sensors. A sensor is a multi-axis reference position sensor with at least one axis held in a fixed position. Another sensor is a movable multi-axis one A position sensor rotatable about at least one axis corresponding to the at least one axis of the multi-axis reference position sensor. The electrical music control device also includes a processor in communication with both the reference multi-axis position sensor and the movable multi-axis position sensor. The processor calculates an angular difference in response to receiving the angular position of the at least one axis of the reference multi-axis position sensor and the angular position of the at least one axis of the movable multi-axis position sensor. The angle difference correlates with a musical effect of an electric instrument.

GB 2320125A discloses: A characteristic of an audio signal produced by an electronic musical instrument is modified in response to manual operations applied to a controller. The manual operations are preferably effected through the actuation of a foot pedal with two degrees of freedom so that it can pivot about a horizontal axis and rotate about a vertical axis. For each degree of freedom there is a resonant circuit, with a coil and a cooperating element, so that the inductance and hence the resonant frequency of the circuit is varied by relative movement between the coil and the cooperating element. The relationship between manual operation and audio signal modification is linearized by a compensation characteristic determined by the shape of the coil.

U.S. 2006/156903 A1 discloses: pedal assemblies and methods provide for signal control, such as for controlling audio and/or effects loop signals used in generating audio from a musical instrument. The pedal assemblies can provide simultaneous audio and effects control via respective dedicated electrical paths. Rotation of the pedal about one or more axes of rotation results in modification of an electrical characteristic of devices of the pedal that control the audio and effects loop signals. A particular rotary axis, which modifies the electrical characteristics of a device, can be configured to produce a particular audio or effects loop control based on which of the jacks are being used, so by changing the jacks used, the function of a particular rotary axis can change. In addition, a pedal assembly may provide two axes of rotation where the centers of rotation of the two axes do not coincide. This allows the two axes of rotation to be better isolated.

US 4,245,539A discloses: An apparatus for generating signals of different volume and pitch which are functions of the magnitude and distribution of weights (or weights) placed on a corner-hinged platform pivotable in mutually orthogonal directions. Sensors convert the physical displacements that occur at the first and second corners relative to the platform adjacent the hinged corner into signals for controlling the volume and pitch of an output signal. Alternatively, displacement of the platform may be controlled by the application of differential pressure by means other than full body weight, such as the operator's finger(s). The device can be used as a means for generating music or musical sounds responsive to a person dancing or otherwise moving around the platform to provide a form of entertainment.

Summary of the Invention

The present invention relates to a control device for controlling a sound of an electric musical instrument according to independent claim 1. Preferred embodiments of the control device are described in the description, in the figures and in the dependent claims 2-14.

Furthermore, the present invention relates to a control system according to claim 15.

With the control device of the present invention, it is possible to control a sound of an electric musical instrument by rotating the treadle about a first axis and about a second axis. A first electrical signal is generated during a rotation about the first axis, and a second electrical signal is generated during a rotation about the second axis, and a sound of the electric musical instrument can be controlled with the aid of these two signals.

This makes it possible, for example, for a user of the control device to operate the electric musical instrument with his two hands and at the same time operate the control device with one foot by rotating the treadle about the first and/or the second axis. Thus, in particular, the user can continuously change two or more parameters of the sound at the same time by moving his foot while operating the electric musical instrument with his two hands. In this way, new sound experiences can be created and artistic expression can be enhanced.

Brief description of the drawings

Fig. 1A shows a right side view of the control device (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention with two joints (7a, 7b), two potentiometers (14a, 14b) and two associated cables when the tread (2) is in a neutral position.

Fig. 1B shows a right side view of the control device (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention with two joints (7a, 7b), two potentiometers (14a, 14b) and two associated cables when the tread (2) is in a deflected position. Fig. 1C shows a front view of the control device (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention with two joints (7a, 7b), two potentiometers (14a, 14b) and two associated cables when the tread (2) is in a neutral position.

Fig. 1D shows a front view of the control device (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention with two joints (7a, 7b), two potentiometers (14a, 14b) and two associated cables when the tread (2) is in a deflected position.

Fig. 1E shows a top view of the control device (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention with two joints (7a, 7b), two potentiometers (14a, 14b) and two associated cables.

Fig. 2A shows a right side view of the control device (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention with two joints (7a, 7b), two potentiometers (14a, 14b) and two associated toothings.

Fig. 2B shows a front view of the control device (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention with two joints (7a, 7b), two potentiometers (14a, 14b) and two associated toothings.

Fig. 3A shows a right side view of the control device (1) according to an unclaimed example with a ball joint, two Hall sensors and two magnets.

Fig. 3B shows a front view of the control device (1) according to the example with a ball joint, two Hall sensors and two magnets.

Fig. 3C shows a plan view of the control device (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention with a gimbal, two Hall sensors and two magnets.

Fig. 4A shows a right side view of the control device (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention with a gimbal, two Hall sensors and two magnets.

Fig. 4B shows a front view of the control device (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention with a gimbal, two Hall sensors and two magnets.

Fig. 4C shows a plan view of the control device (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention with a gimbal, two Hall sensors and two magnets.

Fig. 5A shows a right side view of the control device (1) according to different embodiments of the present invention with a spring (26) and a switch (25) mechanically operated by a plunger (27). The embodiment according to FIG Figure 2A been presented.

Fig. 5B shows a right side view of the control device (1) according to various unclaimed examples with a first central force sensor (24a) for generating a third electrical signal based on a force acting perpendicularly on the tread surface and/or a second central force sensor (24b) for executing a switching function .. Exemplary is the embodiment according to Figure 2A been presented.

Fig. 6 shows a plan view of the control device (1) according to various embodiments of the present invention with one or more virtual axes (21a, 21b, 21c).

Fig. 7 shows a plan view of the control device (1) according to different embodiments of the present invention with one or more virtual zones (22a-22f).

Fig. 8 shows a plan view of a control device (1) according to unclaimed examples with force sensors (23a-23h) arranged on the tread (2) of the control device (1).

Description of the embodiments

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the drawings.

According to one aspect of the present invention, a control device (1) for controlling a sound of an electric musical instrument comprises: a stepping surface (2) arranged rotatably about a first axis (4a) and arranged rotatably about a second axis (4b); and a signal generator (3) configured to generate a first electrical signal for controlling the sound and a second electrical signal for controlling the sound, the first electrical signal being responsive to rotation of the tread (2) about the first axis (4a) is based and the second electrical signal is based on a rotation of the tread surface (2) about the second axis (4b).

This makes it possible, for example, for an artist to operate the electric musical instrument with both of his hands and at the same time turn the footplate around the first and/or the second axis with one foot. This allows the performer to change the two parameters of the sound while operating the electric musical instrument with both hands. In this way, new sound experiences can be created and artistic expression can be enhanced.

The first axis (4a) can run parallel to the tread (2). Alternatively, the first axis can enclose a first axis angle with the tread surface, the first axis angle being greater than 0° and less than 90°. A first axis angle of 0° corresponds to the first axis being parallel to the tread (2), and a first axis angle of 90° corresponding to the first axis being perpendicular to the tread (2). The first axis angle can be, for example, 0°, 5°, 10°, 20°, 30° or 40°. The second axis (4b) can run parallel to the tread (2). Alternatively, the second axis can enclose a second axis angle with the tread surface, the second axis angle being greater than 0° and less than 90°. The second axis angle can be 0°, 5°, 10°, 20°, 30° or 40°, for example. In a first example, the first axis (4a) and the second axis (4b) can each run parallel to the tread surface (2). In a second example, the first axis (4a) can run parallel to the tread (2) and the second axis (4b) can have an axis angle between 0° and 90° (i.e. more than 0° and less than 90°) with the tread ( 2) include, or vice versa. In a third example, the first axis (4a) can enclose a first axis angle between 0° and 90° (i.e. more than 0° and less than 90°) with the tread surface and the second axis (4b) can enclose a second axis angle between 0° and 90° with the tread (2). The first and second axis angles can be the same or different. The aforementioned settings of the two axes (4a, 4b) relative to the tread (2) can enable a user to operate the tread (2) and thus control the sound by rotating the tread (2) about the two axes (4a, 4b) facilitate.

The signal generator (3) may be configured to generate the first signal in response to rotation of the tread (2) about the first axis (4a) and the second signal in response to rotation of the tread (2) about the second Axis (4b) generated. For example, the tread (2) may initially be positioned in a neutral position. When the tread (2) is rotated about the first axis (4a), the signal generator (3) can generate the first signal. When the tread (2) is rotated about the second axis (4b), the signal generator (3) can generate the second signal. A deflected position denotes a state of the tread (2) in which the tread (2) is rotated about the first axis (4a) or about the second axis (4b) starting from the neutral position.

Furthermore, the first signal can depend on a first angle of rotation of the tread (2) about the first axis (4a), and the second signal can depend on a second angle of rotation of the tread (2) about the second axis (4b).

Furthermore, the first signal can be configured to control a first parameter of the sound and the second signal can be configured to control a second parameter of the sound, where the first and second parameters of the sound can be different from each other. The first and/or second parameter of the sound can be a continuous parameter such as a loudness (as in a "volume pedal"), a sweepable filter (as in a "wah-wah"), or some other quantity (as in a an "expression pedal"). The first and/or the second parameter can in particular be a continuously adjustable variable. The first and/or second parameter can be changed continuously by continuously changing an angle of rotation of the tread (2) about the respective axis. The first parameter can be set the larger, the larger or the smaller the first angle of rotation is. The second parameter can be set larger, the larger or the smaller the second angle of rotation is. However, the first and/or second parameter does not necessarily have to depend on the respective angle of rotation in a monotonically increasing or monotonically decreasing manner. Thus, a user of the control device (1) can simultaneously control several parameters of the sound in a variety of ways by moving the tread (2). In particular, two or more parameters can be continuously changed at the same time by moving a foot. In this way, new sound experiences can be created and artistic expression can be enhanced.

Furthermore, the first electrical signal can be configured to control a first sound or sound effect, and the second electrical signal can be configured to it controls a second sound or second sound effect, wherein the first sound or first sound effect can be different from the second sound or second sound effect, and wherein the resulting sound of the electric musical instrument (1) is based on the first sound or first sound effect and on the second sound or second sound effect based.

In other words, the control device (1) can be used not only to control individual parameters of the sound but also to control entire sounds or sound effects. In particular, entire sounds or sound effects can be mixed or transferred into one another by rotating the step surface around the first axis (4a) and the second axis (4b). In this way, new sound experiences can be created and artistic expression can be enhanced.

In particular, the control device (1) can be configured to receive a first sound effect electrical signal for controlling a first sound effect and a second sound effect electrical signal for controlling a second sound effect. The first electrical signal can control the first sound effect by adjusting, amplifying, attenuating, or modulating the first sound effect electrical signal, and the second electrical signal can control the second sound effect by adjusting, amplifying, attenuating, or modulating the second sound effect electrical signal.

In other words, the control device (1) can be used as a 2-in-1 mixer. The first and the second sound effect signal can be supplied to the control device (1) from the outside, and the strength of the first and the second sound effect signal can be adjusted by the movement of the tread (2) around the first axis (4a) and around the second axis (4b ) be adjusted. Thus, one can conveniently fade between the first and second sound effects in one motion, or the first and/or second sound effects can be reduced to a minimum. For example, the electric musical instrument may be a guitar that has a magnetic pickup and a piezo pickup; each of the signals can then be connected to the device and both volume and mix ratio can be controlled by tilting the treadle. In this way, new sound experiences can be created and artistic expression can be enhanced.

According to one aspect of the invention, the first signal is independent of the rotation of the tread (2) about the second axis (4b) and the second signal is independent of the rotation of the tread (2) about the first axis. This makes it possible for the user to receive the first and the second signal precisely in a simple manner by rotating the treadle (2) in different ways set. In particular, the first and second parameters of the sound can thus be set precisely and independently of one another.

The first signal can also depend on the rotation of the tread surface around the second axis (4b), and the second signal can also depend on the rotation of the tread surface (2) around the second axis. For example, the two parameters of the sound can be changed depending on each other. For example, the dependency of the first signal on an angle of rotation of the tread (2) about the first axis (4a) can be different depending on how large the angle of rotation of the tread (2) about the second axis (4b) is. In this way, a variety of complex and novel sound experiences can be created and artistic expression can be enhanced.

According to one aspect of the invention, the first axis (4a) may be at a first distance from the tread and the second axis (4b) at a second distance from the tread (2), the first distance being equal to the second distance. Furthermore, the first distance and/or the second distance can be equal to zero, so that the first axis (4a) and/or the second axis (4b) lies in the tread surface. Furthermore, the first axis (4a) and the second axis (4b) can be arranged perpendicular to one another. This makes it easier for a user to operate the tread (2) and thus to control the sound by rotating the tread (2) about the two axes.

The first angle of rotation can be in a first interval between a first minimum angle of rotation and a first maximum angle of rotation, for example between -22° and +22°, between -20° and +20°, between -15° and +15° or between - 10° and +10° can be changed. The second angle of rotation can be in a second interval between a second minimum angle of rotation and a second maximum angle of rotation, for example between -40° and +40°, between -30° and +30°, between -20° and +20°, between - 15° and +15° or between -10° and +10°. The first minimum angle of rotation does not have to be equal to the negative first maximum angle of rotation, i.e. the first angle of rotation can also be changeable in an interval between -22° and +15°, for example. The same applies to the second angle of rotation.

A user of the control device (1) can use the control device (2) as a foot pedal. In this case, the user can place a foot on the tread (2) so that when the user rotates the foot about the first axis (4a), the tread (2) can be rotated about the first axis (4a) and the tread can rotated about the second axis (4b) when the user rotates the foot about the second axis (4b). The first minimal Angle of rotation, the first maximum angle of rotation, the second minimum angle of rotation and the second maximum angle of rotation can each be set to correspond to possible or comfortable rotation of a user's foot or ankle about the respective axis (4a, 4b). This makes it easier for a user to operate the tread (2) and thus to control the sound by rotating the tread (2) about the two axes.

The control device (1) can further comprise a bearing surface (5) and a bearing (6). The bearing connects the tread (2) to the support surface (5), so that the tread (2) is rotatable about the first axis (4a) and the second axis (4b). When a user uses the control device (1) as a foot pedal, the support surface (5) can rest on solid ground, for example a floor.

The control device (1) can be configured so that the tread (2) automatically returns to the neutral position when no external torque is applied to the tread (2). In the neutral position, the tread (2) can be arranged parallel to the bearing surface (5). The automatic return to the neutral position can be realized by a return mechanism which includes one or more compression springs. When an external torque acts on the tread (2), for example when a user puts a foot on the tread (2), the tread (2) is rotated about the first axis, for example, and a compression spring can thereby be compressed. If the external torque decreases, for example because the user reduces the load on the tread (2), the compression spring with the spring force pushes the tread (2) towards the initial position, i.e. the neutral position. If the external torque disappears completely, for example because the user lifts his foot off the tread (2), the tread (2) can automatically return to the neutral position.

As in Fig. 1A to 2B shown, the bearing may comprise a first joint (7a) and a second joint (7b), wherein the first joint (7a) is configured such that the tread (2) is rotatably arranged about the first axis (4a), and wherein the second joint (7b) is configured such that the tread (2) is arranged to be rotatable about the second axis (4b).

In particular, the first joint (7a) can comprise a first joint element (8a) and a second joint element (8b), and the second joint (7b) can comprise a third joint element (8c) and a fourth joint element (8d), the first joint element (8a) is fixed to the bearing surface (5), and wherein the second joint element (8b) is connected to the first joint element (8a) so that the second joint element (8b) about the first axis (4a) is rotatable, and wherein the third joint element (8c) is fixed to the second joint element (8b), and wherein the fourth joint element (8d) is connected to the third joint element (8c) so that the fourth joint element (8d) is the second axis (4b) is rotatable, and wherein the tread (2) is fixed to the fourth joint member (8d), and wherein the first joint (7a) is configured such that the tread (2) rotates about the first axis ( 4a) rotates when the second joint element (8b) rotates about the first axis (4a), and wherein the second joint (7b) is configured so that the tread (2) rotates about the second axis (4b) when the fourth joint element (8d) rotates about the second axis (4b).

The fastening of the various components of the control device (1), such as the articulation elements, the stepping surface and the supporting surface, to one another can be achieved by various fastening means, such as screws, nails, glue or welding. Further, for example, a first hinge member may include a curved groove and a second hinge member may comprise a curved key, the key engaging the groove such that the second link member is connected to the first link member and is rotatable about an axis.

The first articulation element (8a) may comprise a first sliding surface (9a) and the second articulation element (8b) may comprise a second sliding surface (9b), the first articulation (7a) being configured such that the second articulation element (8b) moves relative to the first joint element (8a) moves when the second sliding surface (9b) slides on the first sliding surface (9a), and wherein the third joint element (8c) comprises a third sliding surface (9c) and the fourth joint element (8d) comprises a fourth sliding surface (9d ) wherein the second joint (7b) is configured such that the fourth joint element (8d) moves relative to the third joint element (8c) when the fourth sliding surface (9d) slides on the third sliding surface (9c).

One or more of the sliding surfaces (9a, 9b, 9c, 9d) can be curved in such a way that their centers of movement lie on or close to the tread surface (2).

In particular, the first sliding surface (9a) can have a concave cylindrical segment surface (9a) around the first axis (4a) with a first radius, the second sliding surface (9b) can have a convex cylindrical segment surface (9b) around the first axis (4a) with the first radius, the third sliding surface (9c) a concave cylindrical segment surface (9c) about the second axis (4b) with a second radius, and the fourth sliding surface (9d) a convex cylindrical segment surface (9d) about the second axis (4b) with the second radius.

It should be noted that the control device (1) as in Fig. 1A to 2B shown, may comprise a left-hand first joint and a right-hand first joint, the left-hand first joint and the right-hand first joint being the first joint (7a), respectively, and the left-hand first joint and the right-hand first joint on different sides of the second axis (4b) are arranged.

Furthermore, the control device (1) can comprise a footboard, the footboard comprising two parallel side surfaces, and wherein one of the two parallel side surfaces is the footboard (2) and the other of the two parallel side surfaces is an abutment surface.

The left-side first hinge may include a left-side side surface configured such that the abutment surface of the footboard abuts the left-side side surface when the second rotation angle is equal to the second minimum rotation angle. The right-side first hinge may include a right-side side surface configured such that the abutment surface abuts the right-side side surface when the second rotation angle is equal to the second maximum rotation angle.

Further, the device may comprise a left-hand second joint and a right-hand second joint, the left-hand second joint and the right-hand second joint being the second joint (7b), respectively, and the left-hand second joint and the right-hand second joint being on different sides of the first Axis (4a) are arranged.

The left-side second hinge may include a left-side curved side surface configured such that the abutment surface of the footboard abuts the left-side curved side surface when the first rotation angle is equal to the first minimum rotation angle. The right side second hinge includes a right side curved side surface configured such that the abutment surface abuts the right side curved side surface when the first rotation angle is equal to the first maximum rotation angle. In this situation, the tread (2) is still rotatable about the second axis (4b) due to the curvature of the respective curved side surface.

As in Fig. 3A to 3C shown, the bearing (6) can comprise a ball head (10) with a ball or a ball section. The rotation of the tread (2) about the first axis (4a) and about the second axis (4b) is realized in this case by the ball head (10). The ball head (10) can be mechanically secured against twisting using a twist lock (12) if only two axes are to be active.

As in Fig. 4A to 4C shown, the bearing (6) can comprise a gimbal with a first pivot bearing and a second pivot bearing, the first pivot bearing being configured such that the tread (2) is arranged to rotate about the first axis (4a), and the second Pivot bearing is configured so that the tread (2) about the second axis (4b) is rotatably arranged.

Furthermore, the bearing (6) can comprise one or more slideways.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the signal generator (3) can comprise a first signal generator element and a second signal generator element. The first signal generating element can be configured to generate the first signal based on a rotation of the tread (2) about the first axis (4a), and the second signal generating element can be configured to generate the second signal based on a rotation of the Tread (2) generated around the second axis (4b).

As in Fig. 1A to 2B As shown, the first signal generating element may be a first potentiometer (14a) and/or the second signal generating element may be a second potentiometer (14b). As in Fig. 1A to 1E shown, the first and the second potentiometer (14a, 14b) can each be attached to the bearing surface (5). As in Fig. 2A to 2B shown, the first and/or the second potentiometer can be attached to the tread (2) or to the bearing (6).

As in Fig. 3A to 4C As shown, the first signal generating element may be a first magnetic or Hall sensor (19a) and/or the second signal generating element may be a second magnetic or Hall sensor (19b). As in Fig. 3A to 3C shown, the first and the second Hall sensor (19a, 19b) can each be attached to the holder (11) or to the bearing surface (5). As in Fig. 4A to 4C shown, the first and second Hall sensors (19a, 19b) can each be attached to the bearing (6).

Furthermore, the control device can comprise: a magnet (20a, 20b) associated with the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b), the control device (1) being configured such that a position of the associated magnet (20a, 20b) changes relative to the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b) changes when the tread (2) rotates about the axis (4a, 4b) belonging to the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b), and the control device (1) thereby changes the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b) causes the output voltage to change depending on the position of the associated magnet (20a, 20b).

If, for example, the first and/or the second Hall sensor (19a, 19b) is attached to the bracket (11) or to the bearing surface (5), the associated magnet (20a, 20b) can be attached to the ball head (10) or be fixed with the bearing (6). If, for example, the first and/or the second Hall sensor (19a, 19b) is attached to the ball head (10) or to the bearing (6), the associated magnet (20a, 20b) can be attached to the bracket (11) or be attached to the bearing surface (5). In this way, a position of the associated magnet (20a, 20b) changes relative to the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b) when the tread (2) moves around the axis associated with the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b). (4a, 4b) rotates, and the control device (1) thereby causes the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b) to change the output voltage depending on the position of the associated magnet (20a, 20b).

Furthermore, the tread (2) can be arranged to be rotatable about a third axis, the third axis being perpendicular to the tread (2), and the signal generator (3) being further configured to generate a third electrical signal for controlling the sound generated, wherein the third electrical signal is based on a rotation of the tread (2) about the third axis. The rotatable arrangement of the tread (2) around the third axis can be implemented in a manner similar to that described above for the first and second axes, for example by means of a ball joint or cardanic suspension with a first pivot bearing, a second pivot bearing and a third pivot bearing.

As in Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B shown, the control device (1) may further comprise a base (28). The bearing surface (5) can be movably arranged relative to the base (28) in a direction perpendicular to the bearing surface (5). As in Fig. 5A shown, the control device (1) can also comprise an elastic element (26), preferably one or more springs (26), the elastic element (26) being arranged between the bearing surface (5) and the base (28) such that , when a force acts perpendicular to the bearing surface (5), the force causes a deformation of the elastic element (26). When the elastic element (26) is compressed, the elastic element (26) can be designed to provide a counter-force acting on the bearing surface (5).

In particular, the bearing surface (2) can initially be arranged in a neutral position with respect to the base (28), the bearing surface (2) having a defined distance from the base (28) in the neutral position. The control device (1) can be configured in such a way that the support surface (2) automatically returns to the neutral position when no external force is applied perpendicularly to the tread surface (2). The automatic return of the Support surface (2) in the neutral position can be realized by a restoring mechanism, which comprises the elastic element (26), preferably one or more springs (26), as in Fig. 5A shown. When an external force acts perpendicularly on the stepping surface (2), for example when a user puts a foot on the stepping surface (2), the external force can transfer from the stepping surface (2) to the bearing surface (5) via the bearing (6). be transmitted. As a result, the distance between the bearing surface (5) and the base (28) can decrease and the one or more springs (26) can be compressed. If the external force decreases, for example because the user reduces the load on the tread (2), the one or more springs (26) press the support surface (5) with their spring force in the direction of the starting position, i.e. the neutral position of the support surface (5 ). If the external force disappears completely, for example because the user lifts his foot off the stepping surface (2), the supporting surface (5) can automatically return to the neutral position with respect to the base (28).

As in Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B shown, the control device (1) can also be equipped with a switching or touch function, which is activated by a vertical load on the tread (2). The control device (1) or the electrical musical instrument can be switched on or off, for example, with the aid of such a switch or key function.

For example, as in Fig. 5B shown, the control device (1) comprises a second central force sensor (24b), which measures a force acting perpendicularly on the tread (2) and depending on the measured force executes the switching or touch function. The second central force sensor (24b) can be arranged centrally with respect to the tread surface (2). The control device (1) may further comprise a plunger (27), wherein when a force is applied perpendicularly to the tread (2), the plunger (27) is configured to transmit the force to the second central force sensor (24b). , and wherein the second central force sensor (24b) is configured to measure the transmitted force and to perform the switching or touching function based on the measured transmitted force.

In particular, the ram (27) can be connected to the support surface (5) and the second central force sensor (24b) can be arranged entirely or partially in the base (28). In this case, a force acting perpendicularly to the stepping surface (2) can be transmitted to the bearing surface (5) via the bearing (6); the bearing surface (5) can thereby move vertically in the direction of the base (28) and/or the plunger (27) can thereby exert a force on the second central force sensor (24b); this power can through the second central force sensor (24b) are measured, and depending on the measured force, the second central force sensor (24b) can perform the switching or touch function. Alternatively, the second central force sensor (24b) can be connected to the bearing surface (5) and the plunger (27) can be arranged partially or entirely in the base (28).

As an alternative to the second central force sensor (24b), as in Fig. 5A shown, the control device comprises a switch (25) and a plunger (27). If a force acts perpendicularly on the tread (2), the plunger (27) can actuate the switch (25) mechanically and thereby carry out the switching function. The plunger (27) and/or the switch (25) can be arranged centrally with respect to the tread (2).

In particular, the plunger (27) can be connected to the bearing surface (5) and the switch (25) can be arranged partially or entirely in the base (28). As an alternative to this, the switch (25) can be connected to the bearing surface (5) and the plunger (27) can be arranged partially or entirely in the base (28). If a force acts perpendicularly on the stepping surface (2), this is transmitted to the bearing surface (5) via the bearing (6); the bearing surface (5) thereby moves vertically in the direction of the base (28). This reduces a distance between the plunger (27) and the switch (25), and thereby the switch (25) is mechanically actuated by the plunger (27) to perform the switching function.

In particular, the control device (1) can be configured such that when the switching function for switching off the control device (1) is executed, it generates a first electrical reset signal and a second electrical reset signal, the first reset signal being configured such that it resets the first parameter of the sound to a first initial value, and wherein the second reset signal is configured to reset the second parameter of the sound to a second initial value.

In other words, a switch or button can be integrated into a base (28) of the control device (1), which switches on the sound processing when weight is placed on the tread and/or resets the variable parameters to an initial value when released. This switch or button can either be a mechanical switch or button or a sensor for applied force or for contact, for example touch or capacitive. In this way, the sound processing can be switched off as long as the control device (1) is not operated. Thus, the user can use the sound control more selectively as needed, and energy can also be saved and costs reduced.

As in Fig. 5B shown, the control device (1) can also include a first central force sensor (24a), which measures a force acting perpendicularly on the tread (2) or a weight force acting on the tread (2) and causes the signal generator (3) to measure a third generate an electrical signal to control the sound based on the measured force. The first central force sensor (24a) can in particular be arranged centrally with respect to the tread surface (2). The control device (1) may further comprise a plunger (27), wherein when a force is applied perpendicularly to the tread (2), the plunger (27) is configured to transmit the force to the first central force sensor (24a). , and wherein the first central force sensor (24a) is configured to measure the transmitted force and cause the signal generator (3) to generate a third electrical signal for controlling the sound based on the measured transmitted force.

The ram can be connected to the support surface (5) and the first central force sensor (24a) can be arranged partially or entirely in the base (28). Alternatively, the first central force sensor (24b) can be connected to the bearing surface (5) and the plunger (27) can be arranged partially or entirely in the base (28).

In particular, the ram (27) can be connected to the bearing surface (5) and the first central force sensor (24a) can be arranged entirely or partially in the base (28). In this case, a force acting perpendicularly to the stepping surface (2) can be transmitted to the bearing surface (5) via the bearing (6); the support surface (5) can thereby move vertically in the direction of the base (28) and/or the plunger (27) can thereby exert a force on the first central force sensor (24a); this force can be measured by the first central force sensor (24a) and depending on the measured force the first central force sensor (24a) can cause the signal generator (3) to generate the third electrical signal for controlling the sound. Alternatively, the first central force sensor (24a) can be connected to the bearing surface (5) and the plunger (27) can be arranged partially or entirely in the base (28).

5AFurthermore, instead of the first central force sensor (24a), the control device (1) can also comprise a signal spring, which is configured in such a way that it is elastically deformed by a force acting perpendicularly on the tread surface (2) and causes the signal generator (3) to turn on to generate a third electrical signal for controlling the sound based on the elastic deformation, preferably based on a change in length of the signal spring caused by the elastic deformation. In particular, the signal spring can be arranged centrally with respect to the tread (2). Furthermore, the signal spring be connected to the bearing surface (5) and be partially or fully arranged in the base (28). In particular, the bearing surface (5) can be connected to the base (28) via the signal spring and can be arranged so that it can move in the vertical direction relative to the base (28). The signal spring can correspond to one or more springs (26) of the restoring mechanism of the support surface (5) with respect to the base (28) described above, or can be formed separately from them.

It should be noted that the control device (1) can contain both the second central force sensor (24a) or the switch (25) and the first central force sensor (24b) or the signal spring. A single force sensor can be used simultaneously for the first central force sensor (24a) and the second central force sensor. Alternatively, the first central force sensor (24a) and the second central force sensor (24b) can be formed separately.

In other words, the control device (1) can contain a suspension which converts the spring deflection into an electrical control signal when the tread surface is weight-loaded. In this way, an additional parameter of the sound can be controlled by evaluating the movement in the direction perpendicular to the tread, similar to an accelerator pedal.

As in Fig. 6 shown, the control device (1) can also control two or more parameters or manipulated variables via a number of virtual axes (21a, 21b, 21c), which are calculated by electronics or software from input values.

In particular, the control device (1) may comprise a signal converter such as electronics or software, the signal converter being configured to convert the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal into a fourth electrical signal for controlling the sound. The fourth electrical signal may further be configured to control a fourth parameter of the sound, where the fourth parameter may be different from the first parameter and/or the second parameter. The fourth electrical signal can depend on a fourth angle of rotation of the tread (2) about a virtual axis (21a, 21b, 21c), the virtual axis (21a, 21b, 21c) being at a first virtual axis angle to the first axis (4a) and disposed at a second virtual axis angle to the second axis (4b), each of the first and second virtual axis angles being greater than 0°. The virtual axis (21a, 21b, 21c) can run parallel to the tread (2) or enclose an axis angle with the tread (2) that is greater than 0° and less than 90°. As in Fig. 6 shown, in particular, the first axis (4a) and the second axis (4b) perpendicular to each other be arranged, and the virtual axis (21a, 21b, 21c) can be arranged, for example, at an angle of 45° to the first axis (4a) and to the second axis (4b).

In other words, additional signals can be obtained from the rotation of the tread (2) about the first axis (4a) and the second axis (4b) by an interposed electronic system. The rotations of the step surface (2) around the first axis (4a) and the second axis (4b) are then interpreted in such a way that when the step surface rotates around a virtual or imaginary axis that is at an angle to the mechanical axes (4a, 4b), a certain parameter changes continuously, for example.

In particular, the first, second, and fourth electrical signals may be configured to control first, second, and fourth parameters of the sound, respectively. This means that the first, second and fourth parameters can be controlled simultaneously by rotating the tread surface (2) about the first axis (4a) and the second axis (4b). Even if the control device (1) has only two mechanical axes (4a, 4b), numerous other sound effects can be generated by the interposed electronics.

Alternatively, when the tread (2) is rotated about the virtual axis (21a, 21b, 21c), the signal generator (3) may be configured not to generate the first electrical signal and/or not to generate the second electrical signal , but instead generates a fourth electrical signal, the fourth electrical signal being based on a rotation of the tread (2) about the virtual axis (21a, 21b, 21c). The fourth signal can be configured to control the fourth parameter of the sound. In other words, the control device (1) can automatically recognize that the tread is rotated around a virtual axis (21a, 21b, 21c) different from the first axis (4a) and the second axis (4b), and accordingly the Modify signal generation to modify the sound of the musical instrument based on the rotation of the tread around the virtual axis (21a, 21b, 21c) instead of based on the rotation of the tread around the first axis (4a) and/or instead of based on the rotation of the tread around to control the second axis (4b).

Furthermore, the signal converter can be configured to convert the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal into a plurality of fourth electrical signals for controlling the sound, each signal of the plurality of fourth electrical signals being configured to have a corresponding parameter controls a plurality of fourth parameters of the sound. Each signal of the plurality of fourth signals can depends in particular on a rotation angle of the tread (2) about a corresponding virtual axis (21a, 21b, 21c) of a plurality of virtual axes (21a, 21b, 21c).

In other words, there can be multiple virtual axes, each having a different angle with respect to axes 4a and 4b. The one or more virtual axes can be calculated from input values by the signal converter, by electronics or by software. Thus, any number of parameters of the sound can be controlled simultaneously. In this way, numerous new sound experiences can be created and artistic expression can be enhanced.

As in Fig. 7 shown, a control device (1) according to the invention can also control two or more parameters or manipulated variables via one or more virtual zones (22a-22f). In particular, the control device (1) may comprise a signal converter configured to convert the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal into a fourth electrical signal for controlling the sound. The sound of the electric musical instrument may be based on a plurality of sound effects, each sound effect of the plurality of sound effects corresponding to a virtual zone (22a-22f) of a plurality of virtual zones (22a-22f), and wherein the fourth signal is configured such that it controls each sound effect of the plurality of sound effects depending on an inclination of the stepping surface toward the corresponding virtual zone (22a-22f).

In other words, the control device (1) can be used as a virtual pedalboard. In particular, a number of sound sources can be connected to the control device (1) and each assigned to a virtual zone, for example an imaginary position around the control device (1), which is standing on the floor, for example. By tilting the tread in a certain direction, the corresponding sound source is activated or mixed in. Adjacent positions can automatically influence each other. For example, if the tread is tilted in a specific direction, all those sound sources that are approximately assigned to the specific direction can be activated. This allows the user to easily and effectively control a variety of sounds or sound effects at the same time.

As in Fig. 8 shown, a control device (1), according to an unclaimed example, can further comprise one or more force sensors (23a-23h) arranged on the tread surface, each force sensor (23a-23h) being configured in such a way that it has a force sensor on the tread surface (2) measures force acting at the position of the respective force sensor (23a-23h), and wherein the signal generator (3) is configured to generate a respective electrical signal for control of the sound based on the force measured by the respective force sensor (23a-23h). The respective electrical signal can be configured to control a respective parameter of the sound, which can be different from the first and/or the second parameter. The parameters corresponding to the respective force sensors (23a-23h) can be the same as one another or can differ from one another.

In other words, in addition to the rotational movements via the two axes (4a, 4b), signals can also be generated by exerting force or weight on the tread (2). The higher the force or weight on a point on the tread (2) where a force sensor (23a-23h) is located, the stronger the corresponding signal for controlling the sound can be. The force signals can be evaluated continuously and assigned to an additional parameter in each case.

In particular, in the case of a control device (1) with force sensors (23a-23h) as described above, the signal generator (3) can be configured so that it only generates the respective electrical signal for controlling the sound when the tread (2) has a respective stop angle in the direction of the respective force sensor (23a-23h). In other words, the evaluation of the force signals can only show its effect at the end stop of the rotary movements of the pedal. Furthermore, the one or more force sensors (23a-23h) can each be arranged on the edge of the tread (2), with the plurality of force sensors (23a-23h) being spaced at equal intervals or the same angular distances with respect to an axis (4a, 4b) along the Edge of the tread (2) can be arranged. For example, the control device (1) can comprise eight force sensors (23a-23h), each at an angle of 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°, 225°, 270° and 315° with respect to the first axis ( 4a) are arranged as in Fig. 8 shown.

For example, the rotations about the two axes (4a, 4b) can each control a filter and the strength of a modulation effect, and the weight force applied to the tread (2) and measured by the force sensors (23a-23h) could add an echo. In a variant with force sensors (23a-23h) on the edge of the tread (2), for example, the end deflection with particular emphasis can cause the filter to resonate and the modulation effect to increase in speed.

The control device (1) can further be configured to cause electronic conversion as follows: i) an electrical resistance is brought out of a potentiometer for use as an expression pedal, and/or ii) an electrical resistance from a potentiometer is used for a mix two signals used, and/or iii) a electrical resistance from a potentiometer is used to control built-in effect electronics, and/or iv) sensor signals from the magnetic sensors, Hall sensors, photoelectric elements or piezo elements are evaluated in analog or digital form and control built-in effect electronics, and/or v ) Sensor signals from the magnetic sensors, Hall sensors, photoelectric elements or piezo elements are evaluated digitally and converted into a control protocol for external effect devices (e.g. MIDI Control Change or SysEx).

According to a further aspect of the present invention, a rotation of the tread (2) drives one or more potentiometers, which are used as an expression input for effect devices. According to a further aspect of the present invention, a rotation of the tread (2) is picked up by sensors and converted into a digital control protocol that controls digital devices. According to a further aspect of the present invention, the electrical signals are used to control an electrical circuit installed in the electrical musical instrument itself.

It should be noted that the different variants of the individual components of the control device (1), which have been described above, can be combined with one another as desired. For example, the bearing (6), as described above, can be realized by a first and second joint (7a, 7b), by a ball joint with a ball head (10) and a bracket (11) or by a cardanic suspension (13). , and the first and/or second signal generator element can be implemented by a respective potentiometer (14a, 14b), a rotary encoder, a Hall sensor (19a, 19b), a photoelectric element or a piezo element. Each of these implementations of the bearing (6) can be combined with each of these implementations of the first and with each of these implementations of the second signal generating element. Furthermore, any combination of these implementations can be combined with any of the electronic implementations i) to iv) described above.

It should also be noted that the tread can have any shape. For example, the tread may be square, rectangular, round, oval, or conformed to the shape of a human foot.

It should also be noted that the control device (1) can control the sound of the musical instrument through the force sensors (23a-23h) described above and/or through the rotation of the tread (2) around the two axes (4a, 4b). This means that the control device (1) can only measure the sound of the musical instrument using the force sensors (23a-23h) described above and not by rotating the tread (2) about the two axes (4a, 4b). Taxes. In other words, the tread (2) does not have to be rotatable about two axes (4a, 4b), and the control device (1) can control the sound of the musical instrument exclusively through the force sensors (23a-23h) described above.

That is, according to an aspect not claimed, a control device (1) for controlling a sound of an electric musical instrument comprises: a tread surface (2); a plurality of force sensors (23a-23h) disposed on the tread surface; and a signal generator (3) configured to generate a plurality of electrical signals for controlling the sound, each force sensor (23a-23h) of the plurality of force sensors (23a-23h) being configured to have a the tread (2) measures force applied at the position of the respective force sensor (23a-23h) and causes the signal generator (3) to generate a corresponding one of the plurality of signals based on that measured by the respective force sensor (23a-23h). power based. It should be noted that all other aspects of the control device described herein can also be combined with a control device (1) according to this unclaimed aspect.

The one or more force sensors (23a-23h) on the tread (2), the first central force sensor (24a) and/or the second central force sensor (24b) can each be implemented, for example, by piezo elements or strain gauges. It should be noted that the one or more force sensors (23a-23h), the first central force sensor (24a) and/or the second central force sensor (24b) can also be used as one or more pressure sensors (23a-23h), a first central pressure sensor (24a ) or a second central pressure sensor (24b).

A control device can refer in particular to a foot pedal or an electronic device for foot operation. Furthermore, an electric musical instrument can be an electronic musical instrument or an electrically amplified musical instrument or a sound-shaping device. Correspondingly, a first and a second axis can be, in particular, a transverse axis and a longitudinal axis. Examples of controlling a sound include controlling a frequency of a filter and controlling an intensity of a distortion. A parameter of a sound can in particular be a manipulated variable, and an electrical signal can indicate an electrical variable, for example. In particular, the present invention relates to an electronic device for foot control, in which a stepping surface can be moved in at least two degrees of freedom on an upper side: rotation about a transverse axis and about a longitudinal axis. The movement can take place over all axes independently of each other. The effect of the mechanical movement is converted into electrical variables, which in turn form a sound-forming device or a control the software used. Movement about the transverse axis controls, for example, a frequency of a filter and movement about the longitudinal axis controls, for example, an intensity of a distortion.

List of References

1

control device

2

tread

3

signal generator

4a, 4b

axis

5

bearing surface

6

camp

7a, 7b

joint

8a, 8b, 8c, 8d

joint element

9a, 9b, 9c, 9d

sliding surface

10

ball head

11

bracket

12

rotation lock

13

gimbal suspension

14a, 14b

potentiometer

15a, 15b

Rope

16a, 16b

deflection

17a, 17b, 18a, 18b

gear element

19a, 19b

Hall sensor

20a, 20b

magnet

21a, 21b, 21c

virtual axis

22a-22f

Virtual Zone

23a-23h

force sensor

24a

First central force sensor

24b

Second central force sensor

25

Switch

26

Elastic element, spring

27

pestle

28

base

Claims (15)

1. Control device (1) for controlling a sound of an electric musical instrument, the control device (1) comprising:

   a tread plate (2) which is arranged to be rotatable about a first axis (4a) and is arranged to be rotatable about a second axis (4b);

   a signal generator (3) which is configured such that it generates a first electric signal to control the sound and a second electric signal to control the sound, wherein the first electric signal is based on a rotation of the tread plate (2) about the first axis (4a) and the second electric signal is based on a rotation of the tread plate (2) about the second axis (4b);

   a support surface (5); and

   a bearing (6) which connects the tread plate (2) to the support surface (5) so that the tread plate (2) is rotatable about the first axis (4a) and about the second axis (4b),

   wherein the first axis (4a) and the second axis (4b) each extend parallel to the tread plate (2),

   wherein the first axis (4a) and the second axis (4b) are arranged perpendicular to one another, characterized in that

   i) the bearing (6) comprises a first articulation (7a) and a second articulation (7b), wherein the first articulation (7a) is configured such that the tread plate (2) is arranged to be rotatable about the first axis (4a), and wherein the second articulation (7b) is configured such that the tread plate (2) is arranged to be rotatable about the axis (4b), or

   ii) the bearing (6) comprises a Cardan suspension (13) with a first rotary bearing and a second rotary bearing, wherein the first rotary bearing is configured such that the tread plate (2) is arranged to be rotatable about the first axis (4a), and the second rotary bearing is configured such that the tread plate (2) is arranged to be rotatable about the second axis (4b).
2. A control device (1) according to claim 1,
   wherein the signal generator (3) is configured such that it generates the first signal as a reaction to the rotation of the tread plate (2) about the first axis (4a) and generates the second signal as a reaction to the rotation of the tread plate (2) about the second axis (4b).
3. A control device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first signal depends on a first angle of rotation of the tread plate (2) about the first axis (4a) and the second signal depends on a second angle of rotation of the tread plate (2) about the second axis (4b).
4. A control device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first signal is configured such that it controls a first parameter of the sound, and the second signal is configured such that it controls a second parameter of the sound, wherein the first and second parameters of the sound differ from one another.
5. A control device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first signal is independent of the rotation of the tread plate (2) about the second axis (4b) and the second signal is independent of the rotation of the tread plate (2) about the first axis (4a).
6. A control device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, which is further configured such that the tread plate (2) automatically returns to a neutral position when no external torque acts on the tread plate (2),
   wherein the tread plate (2) in the neutral position is preferably arranged parallel to the support surface (5).
7. A control device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the signal generator (3) comprises a first signal generating element, which is configured such that it generates the first signal based on a rotation of the tread plate (2) about the first axis (4a),
   and wherein the signal generator (3) comprises a second signal generating element, which is configured such that it generates the second signal based on a rotation of the tread plate (2) about the second axis (4b)
8. A control device (1) according to claim 7,

   wherein the first signal generating element is a first potentiometer (14a), a first rotary encoder, a first Hall sensor (19a), a first light sensor, a first photoelectric element, or a first piezo element,

   and/or wherein the second signal generating element is a second potentiometer (14b), a second rotary encoder, a second Hall sensor (19b), a second light sensor, a second photoelectric element, or a second piezo element.
9. A control device (1) according to claim 7 or 8,

   wherein the first signal generating element is a first potentiometer (14a) and/or the second signal generating element is a second potentiometer (14b),

   and wherein the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b) is configured such that an electrical resistance therein changes depending on an angle of rotation of the tread plate (2) about the axis associated with the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b), and that the signal, associated with the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b), is based on the changed electrical resistance of the potentiometer (14a, 14b).
10. A control device (1) according to claim 9, which further comprises:

    a Bowden cable, with an associated cable (15a, 15b) and an associated deflection (16a, 16b), associated with the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b), wherein the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b) and the deflection (16a, 16b) are fixed to the support surface (5), and wherein the cable (15a, 15b) is fixed at its two ends to the tread plate (2) and runs around the deflection (16a, 16b) and the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b),

    and wherein the Bowden cable is configured such that a length of the cable (15a, 15b) between a fixing point of the cable (15a, 15b) to the tread plate (2) and to the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b) changes when the tread plate (2) rotates about the axis (4a, 4b) associated with the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b), and the Bowden cable thereby causes the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b) to change the electrical resistance depending on the length of the cable (15a, 15b) between the fixing point and the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b), or

    which control device (1) further comprises:

    a toothing, with an associated first toothing element (17a, 17b) and an associated second toothing element (18a, 18b), associated with the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b), wherein the first toothing element (17a, 17b) is fixed to the bearing (6) and the second toothing element (18a, 18b) is fixed to the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b),

    and wherein the first toothing element (17a, 17b) is configured such that it rotates when the tread plate (2) rotates about the axis associated with the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b),

    and wherein the second toothing element (18a, 18b) is configured such that it rotates when the first toothing element (17a, 17b) rotates, and the second toothing element (18a, 18b) thereby causes the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b) to change the electrical resistance depending on the angle of rotation of the tread plate (2) about the axis associated with the respective potentiometer (14a, 14b).
11. A control device (1) according to one of claims 7 to 10,

    wherein the first signal generating element is a first Hall sensor (19a) and/or the second signal generating element is a second Hall sensor (19b),

    and wherein the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b) is configured such that an output voltage of the same changes depending on an angle of rotation of the tread plate (2) about the axis (4a, 4b) associated with the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b), and the signal associated with the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b) is based on the changed output voltage of the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b), preferably

    which control device (1) further comprises:

    a magnet (20a, 20b) associated with the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b),

    wherein the control device (1) is configured such that a position of the associated magnet (20a, 20b) changes relative to the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b) when the tread plate (2) rotates about the axis (4a, 4b) associated with the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b), and the control device (1) thereby causes the respective Hall sensor (19a, 19b) to change the output voltage depending on the position of the associated magnet (20a, 20b).
12. A control device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the tread plate (2) is further arranged to be rotatable about a third axis, wherein the third axis extends perpendicular to the tread plate (2),
    and wherein the signal generator (3) is further configured such that it generates a third electric signal to control the sound, wherein the third electric signal is based on a rotation of the tread plate (2) about the third axis.
13. A control device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, which further comprises:
    a signal converter, which is configured such that it converts the first electric signal and the second electric signal into a plurality of fourth electric signals to control the sound, wherein each signal of the plurality of fourth electric signals is configured such that it controls one corresponding parameter of a plurality of fourth parameters of the sound, and wherein each signal of the plurality of fourth signals preferably depends on an angle of rotation of the tread plate (2) about a corresponding virtual axis (21a, 21b, 21c) of a plurality of virtual axes (21a, 21b, 21c).
14. A control device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, which further comprises:

    a signal converter, which is configured such that it converts the first electric signal and the second electric signal into a fourth electric signal to control the sound,

    wherein the fourth electric signal depends on a fourth angle of rotation of the tread plate (2) about a virtual axis (21a, 21b, 21c), wherein the virtual axis (21a, 21b, 21c) is arranged at a first virtual axis angle to the first axis (4a) and at a second virtual axis angle to the second axis (4b), wherein each of the first and second virtual axis angles is greater than 0°, or

    wherein the sound is based on a plurality of sound effects, wherein each sound effect of the plurality of sound effects corresponds to a virtual zone (22a-22f) of a plurality of virtual zones (22a-22f), and wherein the fourth signal is configured such that it controls or affects each sound effect of the plurality of sound effects depending on an inclination of the tread plate in the direction of the corresponding virtual zone (22a-22f).
15. A control system which comprises a control device (1) according to one of the preceding claims and the electric musical instrument.

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