JP2016090997A - Adjustable type or foldable type shoulder rest for violins or violas - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an adjustable type or foldable type shoulder rest for violins or violas.SOLUTION: A shoulder rest 10 has a shoulder engaging member 20, and a first sliding end member 100 and a second sliding end member 110 disposed at a first end 40 and a second end 50 of the shoulder engaging member respectively have pull-tab adjusting type sliders 102 and 112. The position of a projection having a shape to engage with one of multiple openings disposed in a slot is varied by one or the other of the pull-tab adjusting type sliders. The shoulder rest has multiple openings, and may include a foam cushion 30 fitted to the shoulder engaging side 70 of the shoulder rest. Each of the sliding end members may constitute a rotary frame for supporting one or the other of rotary drums 106 and 116, which support scree-shaped handles of forks 80 and 90, respectively, and this configuration would make possible height adjustment and folding of the forks.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention generally relates to shoulder pads for violins or violas.

  The shoulder rest is an attached device that can be attached to a violin or viola. Typically, the shoulder rest has a fork-type fixing member or “feet” for removably attaching the shoulder rest to both ends (both sides) of the violin or viola. The shoulder rest provides space between the instrument and a comfortable height for the performer. The shoulder rest may have a body profile that generally matches the natural curvature of the human shoulder and clavicle.

  Some shoulder rests can be adjusted in height and distance between the fork-type fixing members to deal with both the dimensional differences between the instruments and the player's individual body structure and posture preferences.

  Some examples of adjustable shoulder pads are US Pat. No. 5,270,474 by Kun entitled “Violin Shoulders”, US Pat. No. 5,419,226 by Kun entitled “Violin Shoulders”, “Violins” Or US Pat. No. 5,567,893 entitled “shoulder rest for similar instruments”, US Pat. No. 6,031,163 by Cullum et al. Entitled “Adjustable shoulder rest for violin, etc.”, “shoulder rest for violin, etc.” U.S. Pat. No. 7,265,284 to Muir et al., The entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

  Some shoulder rests are foldable (or “collapsible”) to allow for smaller storage. For example, it is disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,731,531 by Kun entitled “Shoulders for Violins or Similar Instruments”, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

  The shoulder rest body or bridge may be made of different materials, for example polymers, composites, metals, or timber. Farha US Pat. No. 6,291,750 entitled “Violin or Viola Shoulder Bridge” discloses a body or bridge made of a laminate comprising a plurality of plywood, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. Part of the description.

  Another ergonomic improvement of the shoulder rest is disclosed in Clemente US Pat. No. 7,385,124 entitled “Violin Shoulder Fixing”, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Part.

  Adjustable and foldable shoulder rests are known in the art, but it is highly desirable to have further improvements in terms of adjustment function and ergonomics.

  The present invention provides a novel adjustable and foldable shoulder rest. The shoulder rest includes two pull tab adjustment mechanisms that can operate independently. Each pull tab adjustment mechanism independently adjusts the foldable fork (ie, pulls out or retracts the foldable fork). The shoulder rest has a foam cushion having an opening on the shoulder engaging side. Each shoulder fork is rotatably mounted on a drum contained in the sliding end member. Other features and aspects of the present invention are described below in the detailed description and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

  Certain inventive aspects of the present disclosure are adjustable and foldable shoulder pads for violins or violas. The shoulder rest includes a shoulder engaging body having a first end, a second end, a shoulder engaging side, and an instrument facing side. The shoulder rest is provided with a first foldable fork-type fixing (clamp) member provided at the first end for fixing the violin or viola and foldable from the engaged position to the folded position. Including. The shoulder rest includes a second foldable fork type clamp member provided at the second end for securing the violin or viola and foldable from the deployed position to the folded position. The shoulder rest receives a screw-like handle that supports the first foldable fork type fixing member, and is slidable between a retracted position and a drawn position, and the first foldable fork type fixing When the member pivots between the deployed position and the folded position, the handle further has an arcuate groove that rotates therethrough and pulls out the first foldable fork-type securing member Or includes a first slidable end member slidable within a first slot opposite the instrument of the shoulder engagement body. The shoulder rest supports the second foldable fork type fixing member and is slidable between the retracted position and the pulled out position, and the position where the second foldable fork type fixing member is deployed. So that the handle further has an arcuate groove that rotates through and pivots between the folded position and pulls out or retracts the second foldable fork-type securing member, A second slidable end member slidable in a second slot of the shoulder engaging body on the opposite side of the musical instrument; The first sliding end member has a first protrusion shaped to engage with one of a plurality of first openings provided in the first slot, and the second sliding end member is a second slot. And a second protrusion shaped to engage with one of the plurality of second openings.

  Another inventive aspect of the present disclosure is a shoulder rest for a bowed instrument. The shoulder rest is a shoulder engaging body having a shoulder engaging side and a musical instrument facing side, and a first folding fork for attaching the shoulder rest to the musical instrument, and can be folded from the deployed position to the folded position. A first foldable fork and a second foldable fork for attaching the shoulder rest to the musical instrument, the second foldable fork being foldable from the unfolded position to the folded position. The shoulder rest includes a first sliding end member for receiving a handle that supports a first folding fork. The first slidable end member is slidable between a retracted position and a retracted (cantilevered) position, and between the position where the first foldable fork is deployed and the folded position. A first slot on the opposite side of the shoulder engaging body so that the handle further has an arcuate groove rotating therethrough and pulls out or retracts the first foldable fork. It can slide inside. The shoulder rest includes a second sliding end member that supports a second folding fork. The second slidable end member is slidable between a retracted position and a retracted (cantilevered) position, and is between a position where the second foldable fork is deployed and a position where it is folded. A second slot on the opposite side of the shoulder engaging body so that the handle further has an arcuate groove rotating therethrough and the second folding fork is withdrawn or retracted. It can slide inside. The first sliding end member has a first protrusion configured to engage with one of a plurality of first openings provided in the first slot. The second sliding end member has a second protrusion configured to engage with one of the plurality of second openings provided in the second slot.

  Yet another inventive aspect of the present disclosure is a shoulder pad for a violin or viola. The shoulder rest is attachable to a violin or a viola and a shoulder engaging body having a first end portion, a second end portion, a shoulder engaging side, and an instrument facing side, and is folded from a deployed position. A first foldable fork that is foldable into position and a second foldable fork that is attachable to the violin or viola and is foldable from the deployed position to the folded position. The shoulder rest includes a first sliding end member for receiving a screw-like handle that supports the first folding fork. The first slidable end member is slidable between a retracted position and a retracted position, and pivots between a deployed position and a folded position of the first foldable fork. The handle further includes an arcuate groove that rotates therethrough and is slidable within the first slot on the opposite side of the shoulder engaging body so as to pull out or retract the first folding fork. is there. The shoulder rest includes a second sliding end member that supports a second folding fork. The second slidable end member is slidable between a retracted position and a retracted position, and pivots between a deployed position and a folded position of the second foldable fork. The handle further includes an arcuate groove that rotates therethrough and is slidable within the second slot on the opposite side of the instrument of the shoulder engagement body to pull out or retract the second folding fork. is there. The shoulder rest further includes a bubble cushion provided on the shoulder engaging side. The bubble cushion can optionally include a plurality of openings.

  Yet another inventive aspect of the present disclosure is a shoulder pad for a violin or viola. The shoulder rest is attachable to a violin or a viola and a shoulder engaging body having a first end portion, a second end portion, a shoulder engaging side, and an instrument facing side, and is folded from a deployed position. A first foldable fork that is foldable into position and a second foldable fork that is attachable to the violin or viola and is foldable from the deployed position to the folded position. The shoulder rest includes a first sliding end member for receiving a screw-like handle that supports the first folding fork. The first slidable end member is slidable between a retracted position and a retracted position, and pivots between a deployed position and a folded position of the first foldable fork. The handle further includes an arcuate groove that rotates therethrough and is slidable within the first slot on the opposite side of the shoulder engaging body so as to pull out or retract the first folding fork. is there. The shoulder rest has a first rotary drum contained within the rotary housing of the first sliding end member. The shoulder rest includes a second sliding end member that supports a second folding fork. The second slidable end member is slidable between a retracted position and a retracted position, and pivots between a deployed position and a folded position of the second foldable fork. The handle further includes an arcuate groove that rotates therethrough and is slidable within the second slot on the opposite side of the instrument of the shoulder engagement body to pull out or retract the second folding fork. is there. The shoulder rest has a second rotary drum contained within the rotary housing of the second sliding end member.

  The summary of the invention described herein is provided to highlight some important aspects of the invention and is intended to be an exhaustive or limiting definition of all aspects of the invention disclosed herein. Not. Other inventive aspects may be disclosed in the detailed description and drawings.

Further features and advantages of the present technology will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 6 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a shoulder rest in a retracted state. FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a shoulder rest in a pulled out state. FIG. 6 is another isometric view of the shoulder rest in a retracted state. FIG. 5 is another isometric view of the shoulder rest in the pulled out state. It is a top view of the shoulder rest in the retracted state. It is a top view of the shoulder pad of the state pulled out. It is a side view of the shoulder rest in the retracted state. It is a side view of the shoulder pad of the state pulled out. It is an end view of the shoulder rest in the retracted state. It is an end view of the shoulder pad of the state pulled out. It is a bottom view of the shoulder rest in the retracted state. It is a bottom view of the shoulder pad of the state pulled out. FIG. 5 is an isometric view of the shoulder rest in a retracted state, showing a state in which the shoulder engagement cushion faces upward. FIG. 10 is yet another isometric view of the shoulder rest in the withdrawn state. FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a shoulder pad in a folded state. It is another isometric view of the shoulder rest in the folded state, and shows a state where the musical instrument facing side faces upward. FIG. 10 is yet another isometric view of the shoulder pad in a folded state. It is a decomposition | disassembly (assembly) figure of a shoulder rest. FIG. 3 is an isometric view of the base. FIG. 6 is an isometric view of the lower side of the base. FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a foam cushion or pad having a die cut (punching) hole. It is a vertical sectional view of a shoulder side end. FIG. 7 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a pull tab adjustment mechanism for pulling out or retracting a sliding (slidable) shoulder end member and its fork. It is a vertical sectional view of the clavicle side end. FIG. 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a pull tab adjustment mechanism for pulling out or retracting a sliding (slidable) clavicle end member and its fork. It is a vertical sectional view of a sliding type shoulder side end member. FIG. 5 is an enlarged vertical cross-sectional view of a sliding shoulder end member showing the handle attached to a rotating (rotatable) contained drum. It is a vertical sectional view of a sliding type clavicle side end member. FIG. 4 is an enlarged vertical cross-sectional view of a sliding clavicle end member, showing the handle attached to a rotating (rotatable) contained drum. It is an isometric view of a sliding type shoulder side end member. It is an isometric view of the lower side of a sliding shoulder side end member. It is an isometric view showing the internal structure of the holding plate of the shoulder side end member. It is an isometric view showing the outer surface of the holding plate of the shoulder side end member. It is an isometric view of a sliding clavicle side end member. It is an isometric view of the lower side of the sliding clavicle side end member. It is an isometric view showing the internal structure of the holding plate of the clavicle side end member. It is an isometric view showing the outer surface of the holding plate of the clavicle side end member. 1 is an isometric view of a screw-type fork drum. FIG. FIG. 6 is another isometric view of a screw-type fork drum. It is sectional drawing of a screw-type fork drum. FIG. 6 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a shoulder pad having a thumbscrew. FIG. 42 is a top view of the shoulder pad of FIG. 41. FIG. 42 is a side view of the shoulder pad of FIG. 41. FIG. 42 is an exploded (assembled) view of the shoulder rest of FIG. 41. It is a vertical sectional view of a shoulder side end portion having a thumbscrew adjusting mechanism. It is a vertical sectional view of the clavicle side end portion having a thumbscrew adjusting mechanism.

  It should be noted that throughout the appended drawings, similar features are identified by similar reference numerals.

  FIG. 1 shows an adjustable and foldable shoulder rest for a violin or viola according to an embodiment of the present invention. The shoulder pad indicated by reference numeral 10 has a shoulder engagement body (or “bridge”) 20 and a foam cushion or pad 30. The shoulder engaging body (bridge) 20 has a first end 40 and a second end 50. The shoulder engaging body (bridge) 20 has a musical instrument facing side 60 and a shoulder engaging side 70. A first foldable fork-type locking (clamp) member (or “fork”) 80 having a pair of teeth, forks or finger pieces 82 is used to fix the violin or viola first of the shoulder engagement body. Provided at the end. The fork 80 has a hole 84 for receiving a screw-shaped handle. The fixing member (or fork) 80 can be folded from the expanded state to the folded state. A second foldable fork-type locking (clamp) member (or “fork”) 90 having a pair of teeth, forks or finger pieces 92 is used to secure a violin or viola to a shoulder engagement (bridge). Is provided at the second end. The second fork 90 has a hole 94 for receiving a screw-shaped handle 96. The second fixing member (or second fork) 90 can also be folded from the expanded state to the folded state.

  The shoulder rest 10 shown in FIG. 1 can be adjusted to increase or decrease the distance between the fork 80 and the fork 90. The shoulder rest 10 has a pair of adjustment mechanisms for adjusting the distance between the forks. 1 includes a sliding (slidable) end member 100, 110. As shown in FIG. The sliding end members 100 and 110 have pull tab adjustable sliders 102 and 112, respectively. The pull tab adjustable sliders 102, 112 are actuated by pulling up the pull tabs 104, 114, respectively. By this adjusting mechanism, the sliding end members (the shoulder side end member 100 and the clavicle side end member 110) can slide in the slot (elongated hole) with respect to the base portion 20. In this way, end members 100, 110 can be withdrawn or retracted. The end members 100, 110 shown in FIG. 1 are fully retracted. FIG. 2 shows the end members 100, 110 partially pulled out. When pulled out partially or completely, the end members 100, 110 are also said to be cantilevered, as shown in FIG. Sliding end members 100, 110 have drums 106, 116 included. The drums 106, 116 rotatably support the forks as will be described in more detail below.

  FIG. 2 also shows sliding end members that slide within the respective slots. The lower side of the tongue-shaped pull tab adjustable slider 102 has a protruding shape and engages with one of a plurality of first openings 24 (for example, horizontally long grooves) formed in the slot 28.

  FIG. 3 shows the shoulder rest 10 in a retracted state as viewed from another direction, and FIG. 4 shows the shoulder rest 10 in a retracted state as viewed from another direction. For purposes of this description, the first end 40 is also referred to as the “shoulder end” and the second end 50 is also referred to as the “clavicular end“ clavicle end ””. The shoulder end should not be confused with the shoulder engagement side 70. The shoulder engagement side 70 contacts the performer's shoulder. In other words, the player puts his shoulder on the shoulder engaging side to make the shoulder rest. The shoulder end and the clavicle end may instead refer to sliding end members 100, 110 (also known as "slidable support members").

  As shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, the shoulder engagement body (bridge) 20 is asymmetric. According to FIGS. 5 to 6 when the shoulder pad 10 is viewed from above, the shoulder engagement body 20 has a width from the clavicle side end portion toward the shoulder side end portion except for the rounded portion of the shoulder side end portion. While gradually increasing, it is curved along the side surface (ie, bent to one side). Similarly, according to FIG. 6 when the shoulder rest 10 is viewed from above, the slots 28 or slide paths are each at an angle relative to each other (ie, they are not parallel to each other or aligned in a straight line). Is clear. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 5, the tongue-like pull tab adjustable sliders 102, 112 are not parallel to each other or aligned.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 to 8, the height dimension of the shoulder side end member 100 is shorter than the height dimension of the clavicle side end member 110. According to FIGS. 7 to 8 when the shoulder pad 10 is viewed from the side, the shoulder engaging body 20 is curved upward from the clavicle side end portion toward the shoulder side end portion. As shown in FIGS. 7 to 8, the shoulder side end portion has a convex bay, and the clavicle side end portion has a concave bay. The shoulder side end member has a convex bay so as to match the curvature of the shoulder side end of the convex bay. The clavicle side end member is recessed to match the curvature of the clavicle side end of the recessed bay. More specifically, the first slot at the shoulder end is convex, while the second slot at the clavicle end is concave. The sliding of the shoulder side end member follows an arcuate and substantially convex path. Sliding of the clavicle end member follows an arcuate and generally concave path. According to FIGS. 7-8 when the shoulder rest 10 is viewed from the side, these convex and concave paths are at angles relative to each other (ie they are not parallel to each other or aligned in a straight line). It is clear.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 7-8, the forks 80 and 90 are preloaded to carry or secure the violin or viola with the desired carrying or fixing force. The slope angle of the fork determines the amount of preload. The angle of the fork changes (ie, opens) when the fork is attached to a violin or viola. In other words, when the fork is attached to the instrument, the angle of the fork is larger (more “open” “open”) than when it is not attached to the instrument. The slope angle changes when the fork is withdrawn or retracted with respect to the shoulder engagement body.

  Since the tongue-shaped slider slides in the concave slot, the tongue-shaped slider is on the same plane as the shoulder engaging body 20 as shown in FIGS. That is, the curved upper surfaces of the sliders of the end members 100 and 110 are on the same plane as the base 20 so as to decorate the appearance.

  9 and 10 also show how the shoulder engaging body 20 is curved to the upper left from the clavicular end toward the shoulder end.

  In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11-15, the shoulder pad 10 is attached to the shoulder engaging side of the shoulder engaging body (bridge) so as to provide a cushion or padded shoulder pad. Is further provided.

  As shown in FIGS. 11 to 15, 18, and 21, the foam cushion 30 may optionally have a plurality of openings or holes 32. The opening 32 may be die cut (punched) or manufactured using another technique. Foam cushions with openings provide many advantages. The opening makes the foam cushion lighter. The opening provides stronger traction on the shoulder and prevents the shoulder rest from slipping over the shoulder. That is, the opening provides a more enhanced carrying force. The cushion opening also decorates the appearance of the shoulder pad. The cushion may be made of NBR (nitrile rubber), neoprene (polychloroprene) or other equivalent synthetic rubber, sponge, or foam. The opening may be an elongated opening as shown. The opening may be elongated and curved, and may be curved more greatly from the end of the foam cushion 30 toward the center. Other shapes and sizes of openings may be substituted.

  As described above, the shoulder rest is adjustable and foldable. FIG. 11 shows a shoulder rest with forks 80, 90 in a retracted state and deployed in an engaged (deployed) state for mounting or securing to a violin or viola. On the other hand, FIG. 12 shows the drawn or cantilevered forks 80, 90. The forks 80, 90 can be adjusted separately and can be folded separately (or “collapsible” that can be assembled). FIG. 13 is an isometric view of the shoulder rest in the retracted state, and FIG. 14 is an isometric view of the shoulder rest in the retracted state. The fork can be folded for storage or transport. 15 to 17 show the folded fork.

  In the described embodiment, the fork-type fixing members (or “forks”) 80, 90 are asymmetric. These forks are also rotatable in the embodiments described herein. These forks are threaded into threaded handles 86, 96 (shown in FIG. 18), respectively, in the embodiment described herein. The screw-shaped handles 86 and 96 allow each fork to move up and down, and also allow each fork to rotate relative to the base. Each fork can also be folded or unfolded (ie, closed or opened).

  In summary, the shoulder pad 10 further includes a first sliding end member for receiving a screw-shaped handle that supports the first fixing member. The first sliding end member is slidable between a retracted position and a retracted position and also has an arcuate groove or slot. As the first locking member pivots between the deployed and folded positions, the threaded handle rotates through its arcuate groove or slot. The first slidable end member is slidable within a first slot on the side of the bridge facing the instrument so as to pull out or retract the first securing member relative to the bridge. Similarly, the shoulder rest 10 further includes a second sliding end member for supporting the second fixing member. The second slidable end member is slidable between the retracted position and the extracted position, and also has an arcuate groove. As the second securing member pivots between the deployed and folded positions, the handle rotates through its arcuate groove. The second slidable end member is slidable within the second slot of the bridge opposite the instrument so as to pull out or retract the second securing member relative to the bridge.

  In the described embodiment, there is no locking mechanism for locking the fork in the folded or unfolded state. However, in other embodiments, there may be a locking mechanism for locking the fork in a folded or unfolded state. Alternatively, there may be an intermittent pivot or friction fitting for the fork folding mechanism.

  In this way, the shoulder rest can be adjusted by pulling out or retracting the fork. As mentioned above, the fork can also be rotated to provide further adjustment functions. When each sliding end member and each fork are pulled out, they are cantilevered. When they are fully withdrawn (cantilevered), there will be some lateral or lateral tolerance and / or some torsional or torsional tolerance to provide further adjustment functions. That is, when they are pulled out (cantilevered), each sliding end member may be twisted to mate with the instrument and / or torque is applied to the attached shoulder rest. It may be twisted as it joins.

  The first sliding end member has a first protrusion shaped to engage with one of the plurality of first openings provided in the first slot. Similarly, the second sliding end member has a second protrusion shaped to engage with one of the plurality of second openings provided in the second slot.

  In the embodiment described herein, the plurality of first openings includes a lateral groove provided in the first slot so as to be substantially orthogonal to the axis of sliding of the first support member, and the plurality of second openings is A laterally elongated groove provided in the second slot so as to be substantially orthogonal to an axis of sliding of the second support member, and the protrusion is a laterally elongated rib configured to engage with one of the respective laterally elongated grooves. is there. In the embodiment described here, each lateral slot is provided only in the inner half of each slot.

  In the embodiment described herein, each of the first sliding end member and the second sliding end member includes a puller block releasing member. The puller block release member bends when pulled away from the slot, thereby disengaging the protrusion from the opening. Further, the puller block releasing member is elastically biased with respect to the slot so as to return to the unbent state. In the embodiment described herein, the puller block release member comprises an elongated tab. The elongate tab ends with a curved, circular tip that curves away from the slot. For elongate tabs, the thickness of the tab is thinner than the thickness of the sliding end member, and the width of the tab is narrower than the width of the sliding end member.

  FIG. 18 is an exploded or assembled view of the main components of the shoulder rest 10. The main components are the shoulder engagement body (bridge) 20, the cushion 30, the forks 80 and 90, the sliding end members 100 and 110, the drums 106 and 116, and the holding cover plates 120 and 130. FIG. 19 is an isometric view of a shoulder engagement body (bridge) 20. A pad 30 is attached to the shoulder engagement body 20 to assemble the shoulder rest. The handle of the fork is fastened to the drums 106 and 116, respectively, and the drums 106 and 116 are rotatably accommodated in the holes of the end members 100 and 110, respectively. The holding cover plates 120 and 130 are each fitted in place to hold the drum inside the hole in the sliding end member.

  The shoulder engagement body (or bridge) 20 may have a chamfered portion 21 along the side surface of the shoulder engagement body, as shown in FIG. If the shoulder engagement body is chamfered, the shoulder engagement body can be easily held and handled, and the appearance of the shoulder engagement body can be decorated. The shoulder engagement body 20 includes a first slot 28 and a second slot 28 each having a plurality of openings (for example, the horizontally long groove 24). These multiple openings may be provided in the front (innermost) half of each slot. A pair of guide edges or grooves 26 extend along the sides of each slot to hold the tongue slider.

  FIG. 20 is an isometric view of the underside of the shoulder engagement body 20 of the shoulder rest. The lower side may be provided with an edge or rim 22 that extends to the outer periphery of the shoulder engagement body, within which a cushion may be partially placed.

  FIG. 21 is an isometric view of a foam cushion or foam pad 30. As shown, the cushion has a plurality of openings or holes 32. The foam cushion or pad shown in FIG. 21 has an outer shape or shape that matches the shoulder engagement body. Further, as shown, the cushion or pad has a uniform thickness, but in other embodiments this need not necessarily be the case. In FIG. 21, the cushion is one integral foam, but in other embodiments it may be composed of two or more foams.

  22 to 40 show detailed structures of the sliding shoulder side member and the sliding clavicle side end member.

  FIG. 22 shows the shoulder end 40. FIG. 22 shows that the fork 80 is attached to the screw-shaped handle 86. By mounting the fork 80 on the screw-shaped handle 86, the fork 80 can be moved up and down with respect to the base 20, and further, the fork can be rotated with respect to the base. The handle is screwed into a corresponding threaded ring (collar) or hole in the rotary drum. As shown, the first sliding end member (shoulder side end member) 100 includes a cylindrical and drum-shaped component. FIG. 23 shows a pull tab adjustment mechanism for the sliding shoulder end member. Note that at the shoulder end 40, the slide path is convex, as shown in FIG. 22 and 23 show that the elongated groove 24 may be tapered or morning glory to receive a similarly shaped protrusion or tooth 105. Although six lateral grooves 24 are shown, this number may be varied in other embodiments. In this way, fitting the protrusion in any one of the six positions can result in six different linear expansions. Although FIG. 23 shows how the pull tab 104 is arcuate or curved, other shapes or profiles may be used. FIG. 23 also shows how the front space 107 exists. The front space 107 provides sufficient clearance for a finger other than the thumb or the thumb to pull up the pull tab 104.

  FIG. 24 shows the clavicle end 50 providing a concave slide path for the tongue slider 112. FIG. 25 shows a pull tab adjustment mechanism of the sliding clavicle side end member 110. By pulling up or pulling the pull tab 114, the protrusion 115 moves from one slot 24 to another slot. By providing the front space 117, fingers or thumbs other than the thumb can reach the pull tab 114. When the clavicle end member 110 shown in FIG. 24 is slid, the fork 90 and its finger piece or fork 92 move. The fork 90 is supported by a threaded handle 96 and is rotatable with the drum, as will be described in more detail below.

  FIG. 26 shows a sliding shoulder end member 100 having a hole B for receiving and containing a drum. The gap G is provided by reducing the width of the tongue-like slider or by reducing the thickness in the portion immediately before the protrusion so that the bending is locally increased. A hole C for receiving the holding cover plate is provided below the hole B. FIG. 27 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the sliding shoulder end member 100 showing the handle 86 attached to the rotating contained drum 106. The holding cover plate 120 is fitted into a predetermined position in the hole at the bottom of the end member 100 so as to hold the drum 106 in place.

  FIG. 28 is a side view of the sliding clavicle side end member 110 having the hole B, the hole C, and the gap G similar to the above. FIG. 29 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the slidable clavicle end member 110 showing the handle 96 attached to a rotatable (rotatable) included drum 116. The holding cover plate 130 is fitted at a predetermined position in the hole C so as to hold the drum in the hole B of the sliding clavicle side end member 110.

  FIG. 30 shows the sliding shoulder side end member 100. The sliding shoulder end member 100 has a pull tab 104 and a circular or semi-circular tip 148. The tip 148 defines a finger compartment 107 for allowing the pull tab 104 to be reached. The pull tab is formed integrally with the tongue-shaped pull tab adjustable slider 102. The pull tab is also partially spaced along the side from the slider by two narrow slots or grooves 144,146. Extending along the edge of the end member is an edge 142 for sliding in the groove 26 of the slot 28 of the shoulder engagement body 20 shown in FIG. A circular tip 140 at each edge 142 facilitates insertion into the groove. As shown in FIG. 30, the end member 100 has a rotatable (rotatable) housing 149 that defines a hole B for receiving and containing the drum 106. The rotary housing 149 has a first arcuate slot (groove) 150 to allow the handle to rotate when the fork is folded. The housing 149 further includes a second arcuate slot (groove) 152 to provide a clearance for the bottom of the handle to rotate when the fork is lowered. That is, since the bottom of the handle may extend beyond the drum when the fork descends, a rear clearance is required for the extending bottom of the handle that rotates with the drum.

  FIG. 31 shows the lower side of the sliding shoulder end member 100. A hole C is provided on the lower side. Two protrusions 154 are provided to snap-connect with the socket 122 shown in FIG. The bottom view of FIG. 31 also shows the protrusion 105.

  FIG. 32 shows a holding plate (holding cover plate) 120 of the shoulder side end member. Holding guide fins 124 are provided to hold the drum in place and guide the drum as it rotates. FIG. 33 shows the smooth outer surface of the retaining plate of the shoulder end member.

  The structure of the clavicle end member is similar to the structure of the shoulder end member, as shown in FIG. The clavicle end member 110 includes a pull tab 114, grooves 144 and 146, a side edge 142 having a circular tip 140, a hole B, a first arcuate slot (groove) 150, and a second arcuate slot (groove). ) 152 having a rotary casing 149 formed thereon. In the bottom view of FIG. 35, there is a protrusion 154 for snap-connecting with the hole C and the socket (receiving port) 132 of the cover plate 130 shown in FIG. The holding guide fins 134 hold and guide the drum. The holding guide fins 134 are higher than the holding guide fin fins 124. The outer surface of the holding plate of the clavicle side end member is smooth as shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 38-40, a cylindrical, drum-like component (“drum“ drum ”) 116 has a concave side 116b. The concave side surface 116b holds the drum between a finger other than the thumb and the thumb. As shown in FIGS. 38 to 40, the drum has a concave side surface. In other embodiments, drum 116 having concave sides may be replaced with another suitable rotor that achieves the same or similar kinematics. The drum is included in each end member (sliding support member). The drum 116 has a hole 116a and an arcuate slot 116c for receiving a handle.

  FIGS. 41-46 illustrate a shoulder rest having a thumbscrew adjustment mechanism in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIGS. 41 to 43, the shoulder rest 10 has a shoulder engagement body 20 and a foam cushion 30 similar to those described above. Similarly, the shoulder rest has a fork 80 (with teeth, forks or finger pieces 82) at the shoulder end and a fork 90 (with teeth, forks or finger pieces 92) at the clavicle end. Have. The shoulder side end member 100 has a tongue-like pull tab adjustable slider 102. The clavicle side end member 110 has a tongue-like pull tab adjustable slider 112. The first thumbscrew 160 fixes the first tongue-like pull tab adjustable slider 102 in place at the shoulder end. Similarly, the second thumbscrew 162 fixes the second tongue-like pull tab adjustable slider 112 in place at the end of the clavicle side. These thumbscrew adjustment mechanisms are alternatives to the pull tab adjustment mechanism described in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 44 illustrates how the shoulder rest is assembled by coupling the shoulder engagement body 20 to the cushion (pad) 30 and including the drums 106, 116 within the end members 100, 110. Show. The holding cover plates 120 and 130 hold the drums 106 and 116 inside the holes of the end members 100 and 110 as described above. As shown in FIG. 44, the shoulder side end member 100 has a screw hole 164 into which the thumbscrew 160 is screwed. The clavicle side end member 110 has a screw hole 166 into which the thumbscrew 162 is screwed. As shown in FIG. 45, the tip 161 of the thumbscrew 160 protrudes into one of a plurality of openings (eg, laterally elongated grooves) so as to lock the slider 102 in place. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 46, the tip 163 of the thumbscrew 162 extends into one of the plurality of lateral grooves 24 to lock the slider 112 in place.

  The above-described embodiments of the present invention are intended to be exemplary only. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this specification has been disclosed, many obvious changes, modifications, and improvements may be made to the embodiments presented herein without departing from the inventive concepts disclosed herein. Can be made. Accordingly, the scope of exclusivity sought by the applicant is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims (11)

Adjustable and foldable shoulder rests for violins or violas,
A shoulder engaging body having a first end, a second end, a shoulder engaging side, and an instrument facing side;
A first foldable fork-type fixing (clamp) member provided at a first end for fixing the violin or the viola, and foldable from a deployed position to a folded position;
A second foldable fork-type fixing (clamp) member provided at a second end for fixing the violin or the viola, and foldable from a deployed position to a folded position;
A screw-shaped handle for supporting the first foldable fork type fixing member is received and slidable between a retracted position and a drawn position, and the first foldable fork type fixing member is expanded. The handle further has an arcuate groove that rotates therethrough when pivoting between the folded position and the folded position, and pulls out the first foldable fork-type fixing member or A first slidable end member slidable in a first slot on the opposite side of the instrument of the shoulder engagement body,
The second foldable fork type fixing member is supported and is slidable between a retracted position and a pulled out position, and the second foldable fork type fixing member is folded into the expanded position. The shoulder further includes an arcuate groove that rotates through the handle when pivoting between the two positions and pulls out or retracts the second foldable fork-type securing member. A second slidable end member that is slidable in the second slot on the opposite side of the instrument of the unit,
The first sliding end member has a first protrusion shaped to engage with one of the plurality of first openings provided in the first slot, and the second sliding end member is in the second slot. A shoulder rest having a second protrusion shaped to engage with one of a plurality of second openings provided.   The plurality of first openings includes a plurality of lateral grooves provided in the first slot so as to be substantially orthogonal to the sliding axis of the first sliding end member, and the plurality of second openings includes the first openings. A plurality of lateral grooves provided in the second slot so as to be substantially orthogonal to the axis of sliding of the two-sliding end member, and each of the first protrusion and the second protrusion includes The shoulder rest according to claim 1, wherein the shoulder rest is a horizontally long rib configured to engage with one of the horizontally long grooves.   Each of the first sliding end member and the second sliding end member has a pull tab adjustment type slider, and the pull tab adjustment type slider is pulled away from the first slot and the second slot, respectively. Deflection, whereby the first protrusion and the second protrusion are detached from the first opening and the second opening, respectively, and the pull tab adjustable slider is not bent with respect to the first slot and the second slot, respectively. The shoulder rest according to claim 2, wherein the shoulder rest is elastically biased to return to.   The shoulder rest according to claim 3, wherein the pull tab adjustable slider has an elongated tab ending at a curved circular tip that curves away from the first slot and the second slot, respectively.   The shoulder rest according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a foam cushion attached to the opposite side of the shoulder engaging body to provide a cushioning shoulder rest.   The shoulder pad according to claim 5, wherein the foam cushion includes a plurality of openings.   The shoulder rest according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first foldable fork type fixing member and the second foldable fork type fixing member are asymmetric.   The shoulder rest according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of horizontally long grooves are provided only in inner halves of the first slot and the second slot, respectively.   The thickness of the elongate tab is thinner than the thickness of the pull tab adjustable slider, respectively, and the width of the elongate tab is narrower than the width of the pull tab adjustable slider, respectively. Shoulder rest.   The shoulder rest according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first slot is convex and the second slot is concave.   Each of the first sliding end member and the second sliding end member rotatably accommodates a drum, and each of the drums includes the handle of the first folding fork type fixing member and the second folding fork. The shoulder rest according to any one of claims 1 to 6, which supports the handle of the mold fixing member.

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