NO20140070A1 - Device, method and system for making music - Google Patents

Abstract

Device, method and system for making music Music device for making music includes a first input portion for generating a first signal based on a user input, a music signal generator for generating a music signal based on the first signal, and a second input portion for generating a a second signal based on a user input, wherein the second signal controls the music signal generator, and the second input portion includes a plurality of first buttons corresponding to an area comprising at least one of a key, a tone and a chord, and a plurality of other buttons corresponding to at least one of a tone and a tone scale within the range.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority over the U.S. provisional patent application no. 61/511,041 filed on July 23, 2011.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a music device and, more specifically, a music device that includes first and second input parts.

Description of Related Art

Traditional musical instruments include string instruments, woodwind instruments, brass instruments and keyboard instruments.

Traditional musical instruments and even electronic versions of traditional instruments have remained essentially unchanged for several hundred years. A high level of expertise and time to learn is necessary to master most traditional instruments as a musician, which typically requires training from someone who has already mastered the traditional instrument.

The basic construction of and methods for playing traditional musical instruments have remained almost unchanged for several hundred years. Different skills and dexterities have developed in societies over centuries, giving rise to the creation of a new class of musical instruments and musicians, adaptable to the technology, skill sets and trends of twenty-first century people and future musicians.

SHORT DESCRIPTION

In view of the foregoing and other problems, disadvantages and shortcomings of the above conventional systems and methods, an example of one aspect of the present invention is directed to a music device that can enable musicians and composers to master an instrument in a much shorter time and with fewer physical demands than with conventional musical instruments.

An exemplary aspect of the present invention is directed to a music device for creating music, which includes a first input part for generating a first signal based on a user input, a music signal generator for generating a music signal based on the first signal, and a second input portion for generating a second signal based on a user input, wherein the second signal controls the music signal generator, and the second input portion includes a plurality of first buttons corresponding to an area including at least one of a key, a note, and a chord, and a a plurality of other buttons corresponding to at least one of a tone and a tone scale within the range.

Another example of an aspect of the present invention is directed to a music device for making music, which includes a body, a first input part formed on the body, for generating a first signal based on a user input, a music signal generator formed in the body, for generating a music signal based on the first signal, a neck connected to the body, a second input part for generating a second signal based on a user input, wherein the second signal controls the music signal generator, and the second input part includes a plurality of first buttons corresponding to a area including at least one of a key, a note and a chord, and a plurality of other buttons corresponding to at least one of a note and a scale within the area, and an output part for outputting the music signal.

Another example of an aspect of the present invention is directed to a system for creating music, which includes a device for generating a programming signal, and a music device that is programmable using the programming signal, for creating music. The music device includes a first input part for generating a first signal based on a user input, a music signal generator for generating a music signal based on the first signal, and a second input part for generating a second signal based on a user input, the second signal controlling the music signal generator , and the second input part includes a plurality of first buttons corresponding to a range including at least one of a key, a note, and a chord, and a plurality of second buttons corresponding to at least one of a note and a tonal scale within the range.

Another example of an aspect of the present invention is directed to a method of making music. The method includes generating a first signal with a first input portion based on a user input, for generating a music signal with a music signal generator based on the first signal and generating a second signal with a second input portion based on a user input, wherein the second signal controls the music signal generator, and the second input part includes a plurality of first buttons corresponding to a range including at least one of a key, a note and a chord, and a plurality of second buttons corresponding to at least one of a note and a tonal scale within the range.

With its unique and novel features, the present invention provides a musical device that can give musicians and composers greater variety in musical or tonal parameters and enable them to master an instrument in a much shorter time than with conventional musical instruments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other objects, aspects and advantages will be better understood from the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the drawings, in which: Figure IA illustrates a music device 100, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure 1B illustrates a first input part 160a, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure 1C illustrates a first input part 160b, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure ID illustrates an example of a connection between first input part 160 and receiver part 150a, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure 1E illustrates a music device 100 that includes string instrument input module 160c connected to receiver part 150b, and neck 175 connected to receiver part 150c, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure 1F illustrates an example of a connection between string instrument input module 160c and receiver part 150b, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure 1G illustrates a music device 100 that includes input module for keyboard instrument 160d, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure 1H illustrates a bottom surface 11 la of the body 110, and bottom surface 11 lb of the neck 175 in the music device 100, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure II illustrates a connection 191 between the body 110 and the neck 175, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure 1J illustrates a music device 100 that includes a neck 175 with a plurality of first buttons 135 and a plurality of second buttons 138 formed in a lateral direction (eg, substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the neck 175) from the plurality of first buttons 135, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure 1K illustrates a music device 100 that includes a percussion input module 160e connected to the receiver portion 150b, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figures 2A-2E illustrate the music device 100 with various configurations, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure 3A illustrates a system 300 that includes the music device 350, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure 3B illustrates a circuit 365 in the music device 100, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure 4 illustrates method 400 for creating music, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure 5 illustrates an example of a hardware configuration of a system 500, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figure 6 illustrates an example of a recording medium 600 and an example of a recording medium 602, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figs. 7A-7F are plan views of respective versions of a finger 701, bow 702, wind 703 instrument, pedal 704, alternative neck 705, and a side view of bow 706, according to another exemplary aspect of the present invention. ; Figs. 8A-8H are plan views of a finger instrument 701, respectively, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Fig. 9 is a bottom view of the finger instrument 701, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Fig. 10 is a side view of the finger instrument in 701, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Fig. 11 is another side view of the finger instrument 701, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figs. 12A-12H are a plan view of an arc instrument 702, according to an example aspect of the present invention; Fig. 13 is a bottom view of a bow instrument 702, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Fig. 14 is a side view of the bow instrument 702, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Fig. 15 is another side view of the bow instrument 702, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Fig. 16 is a side view of a bow 1601 for use with bow instrument 702, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Figs. 17A-17D are a top plan view of a wind instrument 703, according to an example aspect of the present invention; Fig. 18 is a bottom view of the wind instrument 703, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Fig. 19 is a side view of blowing instrument 703, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Fig. 20 is another side view of the wind instrument 703, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; Fig. 21 is a side view of the wind instrument 703 articulated neck, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention; and Figs. 22A-22F are a plan, bottom and four side views, respectively, of a foot pedal interface for instruments 701, 702 and 703, according to an example aspect of the present invention;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the drawings, Figures 1A-22F illustrate exemplary aspects of the present invention.

A problem with a traditional music device is that mastering the device typically requires several years of practice, which thus involves a good deal of time and expense. Electric musical instruments (eg electronic versions of traditional musical instruments) such as the piano and guitar have been developed. However, these electric versions have basically the same structure as their traditional counterparts, and all are played by a user in basically the same way as the traditional music device.

For example, just as with a traditional (e.g. acoustic) guitar, a user of an electric guitar must be able to finger the correct chords and strum the correct strings, etc., and just as with a traditional piano, a user of an electric piano must be able to press down the correct keys to produce a musical chord. It therefore requires, just as with traditional musical instruments, many years of practice to master an electric musical instrument, and that involves a lot of time and money.

Furthermore, a traditional device (eg a piano) is only capable of playing a limited number (eg a low number) of musical notes. For example, a traditional piano includes twelve (12) keys (eg per octave), and a traditional guitar includes only six (6) strings.

The example of an aspect of the present invention can solve the problems with the devices in the prior art.

Figures IA-IK illustrate a music device 100 for making music, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention. The music device 100 can enable users (e.g. musicians and composers) to become good at playing music in a much shorter time and with fewer physical requirements than with conventional musical instruments.

As illustrated in Figure IA, the music device 100 includes a first input part 160 for generating a first signal based on a user input, a music signal generator 130 for generating a music signal based on the first signal, and a second input part 170 for generating a second signal based on a user input, wherein the second signal controls the music signal generator 130, and the second input portion 170 includes a plurality of first buttons 135 (eg, touch-sensitive surfaces, keys, knobs, levers, pedals, switches, sliders, etc.) corresponding to an area that includes at least one of a key, a note, and a chord (e.g., a mode such as the key of "C"), and a plurality of other buttons 138 corresponding to at least one of a note and a tonal scale within the range (e.g. .a submode to operate within the mode selected by the user, such as one of twelve notes from a chromatic scale).

The second input part 170 of the music device 100 may also include a plurality of third buttons 139 to define a variation for the range or musical variables of the plurality of first buttons 135, and a plurality of fourth buttons P which include a programmable function to vary at least one of chords, pitch (eng.: pitch) and octave or other frequency, timbre or musical variables.

It should be noted that in Figure IA a string instrument input module 160c is shown as the first input part 160. However, the first input part 160 may include one or more of the string instrument input module 160c, a brass instrument input module 160a (as illustrated in Figure IB), input module for woodwind instrument 160b (as illustrated in Figure 1C), a keyboard instrument input module 160d (as illustrated in Figure 1G), or a percussion input module 160e (as illustrated in Figure IK).

Additionally, although the second signal is described herein as controlling the music signal generator 130, it should be noted that the second signal may adjust the music signal generated by the music signal generator 130 to provide a similar effect, or in another aspect, the music device 100 may include a music signal adjustment device. , and the second signal from the second input part 170 can control

the music signal adjustment device to provide a similar effect.

In the music device 100, a first button 135 of the plurality of first buttons may be touched by the user to select a key/chord mode of operation for the music device 100 (e.g., the key of "C"), and a second button 138 of the plurality of second buttons 138 may be touched by the user to select a note submode from one of the twelve notes of a chromatic scale in the key/chord mode selected by the user (eg a "G" note). In this case, for example, if a user plucks, strums, or bows the strings of the string instrument input module 160c (as illustrated in Figure 1A), then the music signal generator 130 may generate a music signal corresponding to a "G" note (e.g., e.g., a "G" note with perfect frequency) in the key of "C" from a stringed instrument (e.g., guitar, violin, banjo, etc.), or if a user blows the mouthpiece of the brass instrument input module 160a (as illustrated in Figure 1B), then the music signal generator 130 may generate a music signal corresponding to a "G" note (e.g., a perfect frequency "G" note) in the key of "C" from a brass instrument (e.g., trumpet, tuba, French horn, etc.), or if the user blows the mouthpiece of the woodwind input module 160b (as illustrated in Figure 1C), then the music signal generator 130 may generate a music signal corresponding to a "G" note (e.g., a "G "-tone with perfect frequency) in the key of "C" fr a a woodwind instrument (e.g. clarinet, saxophone, oboe, etc.), if a user presses a key on the keyboard input module 160d (as illustrated in Figure 1G), then the music signal generator 130 may generate a music signal corresponding to a "G" note (e.g., a "G" note with perfect frequency) in the key of "C" from a keyboard instrument (e.g., piano, organ, etc.), or if a user strikes the top of the percussion input module 160e (as illustrated in Figure IK), then the music signal generator 130 may generate a music signal corresponding to a "G" note (e.g., a "G" note of perfect frequency) in the key of "C" from a percussion instrument (e.g., piano, organ, xylophone, chimes, bells, etc.).

The music device 100 may also include a body 110, and an electronic module (e.g. electrical circuit) formed in the body 110. The electronic module may include a microcontroller that controls an operation and programming of the music device 100. The electronic module may also include the music signal generator 130 to generate the music signal.

The first feeding part 160 and/or the second feeding part 170 can be formed on the body 110 as illustrated in figure IA.

As illustrated in Figure 1E, music device 100 may also include a neck 175. The first feed portion 160 and/or the second feed portion 170 may also be formed on the neck 175.

Furthermore, the location of the plurality of first and second buttons 135,138 on the body 110 and/or the neck 175 is not limited. For example, as illustrated in Figure IA, the plurality of second buttons 138 may be formed in a longitudinal direction (e.g., a longitudinal direction of the neck 175) from the plurality of first buttons 135.

Alternatively, as illustrated in Figure 1J, the plurality of second buttons 138 may be formed in a lateral direction (e.g., substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the neck 175) from the plurality of first buttons 135. The arrangement of the plurality of first and second buttons 135,138 in Figure 1J can be particularly effective for use of the musical device 100 as a brass instrument or woodwind instrument, as in such cases the user can hold the neck 175 with both the left and right hand.

Furthermore, the body 110 may also include an output part 140 which can output the music signal (eg a speaker, amplifier, recorder, etc.). The output part 140 may be formed in the body 110 and may for example include a sound generator (e.g. speaker receiving the music signal from the music signal generator 130), or an output device for outputting the music signal to an external speaker. The sound generator can generate a sound corresponding to one of a string instrument, woodwind instrument, brass instrument, and keyboard instrument, or a combination of any of these instruments based on the music signal.

The body 110 may also include core electronics, processing and interface modules. For example, the body 110 may also include a power source 115 such as a battery pack or a connection (e.g. with a power cord) to an external power source (e.g. standard AC or DC electrical power source). The body 110 may also include a selector 116 for selecting the musical signal to correspond to one of a string instrument, woodwind instrument, brass instrument, and keyboard instrument, or a combination of any of these instruments.

The second input part 170 of the body 110 may also include an auditory function setting selector 117, to fine-tune an auditory function for the first input part 160 and/or the second input part 170. The auditory function selector 117 can be used by the user to fine-tune a key , a note, a chord, a pitch, a pitch class, a scale or an octave to be played by the music device 100.

In particular, the auditory setting selector 117 can be used by the user to select an auditory function setting for the second input part 170 from a plurality of auditory settings. The auditory tuning selector 117 may include at least one of an array of musical parameters or variables, such as a key tuning selector, a key tuning selector, a chord tuning selector, a pitch tuning selector, a tone class tuning selector, a scale tuning selector, and a selector for octave setting.

The body 110 may also include a receiver 118a that may enable the music device 100 to communicate wirelessly with external devices, and a port 118b (eg, a universal serial bus (USB) port, parallel port, serial port, etc.) to connect a wire (eg, parallel cable, serial cable, Ethernet cable, coaxial cable, HDMI cable, etc.) to the body 110 so that the music device 100 can communicate with an external device via wire.

For example, the port 118b may include a Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) port electrically connected to the music signal generator 130, to communicate an event message about musical notation, pitch, velocity, parameter control signals (such as volume, vibrato, panning of sound, music starters (eng.: cues) and beat signals (e.g. to set and synchronize tempo) between the music device 100 and an external device.

The body 110 may also include additional inputs such as switches, dials, audio outputs, etc. that are not illustrated in Figure IA. In addition, the music signal generated by the music signal generator 130 (e.g., electronic module) may include a digital and and/or an analog signal, allowing various output interfaces to various devices including amplifiers, computers, recording equipment, and any device that can accept the particular analog or digital outputs from the examples of aspects of the present invention.

As illustrated in Figures IA and IB, the body 110 may also include a display device 125 formed on a surface of the body 110, for displaying musical compositions (e.g. notes, chords and melodies of songs, a musical notation corresponding to at least one of the plurality first buttons and the plurality of other buttons, or other parameters such as lyrics, rhythms, tempo indications or any other relevant information).

In addition, as illustrated in Figure 1B, the display device 125 may include a display surface 125a protruding from the body 110 (e.g., a main surface of the body) so that the user can conveniently read the music composition displayed on the display surface 125a while the user is playing the music device 100.1 addition, the display device 125 may be rotatable by the user as indicated by the arrow in Figure IB, so that the display surface 125a may face a desired direction if the user is, for example, playing the music device 100 as a brass instrument, and may be rotated to face another direction if the user is playing the musical device 100 as a stringed instrument, etc.

Additionally, the electronic module (e.g., circuitry including the music signal generator) of the music device 100 may include a memory device 370 (e.g., solid state memory device such as random access memory (RAM)) that stores music compositions, and a microcontroller (e.g., see Figure 3B below) which can access the memory device 370 so that the display device 125 shows the music compositions. The music device 100 may also include input devices formed on the body 110 which enable the user to control a display on a display screen on the display device 125.

In particular, the display device 125 can show a music notation that can be read by the user to use the music device 100. The music notation can, for example, include a new notation that can indicate a chord/key, a note within that chord/key, and a duration for the note. That is, with the music device 100, a user does not need to know, and the display does not need to show, conventional musical notation such as a notation system, whole notes, quarter notes, rest symbols, etc. Thus, the music notation displayed on the display device 125 may include only one chord/key , a note within that chord/key, and a duration for the note. The body 110 may also include a mode setting switch 119 for setting (eg, selecting) a mode for the music device 100 from a plurality of modes. For example, the music device 100 may include a programming mode in which the music device can be programmed such as by an external device (e.g., a computer connected to the music device 110 via a wireless connection (e.g., Bluetooth) or through a wire via the port 118b), or by using a keyboard formed on the body 110.

For example, the display device 125 may include a touch screen and the keyboard may be displayed on the touch screen of the display device 125. The music device 100 may also include a left hand playing mode, a right hand playing mode, an acoustic instrument mode, an electric/electronic instrument mode, and an acoustic/electronic hybrid instrument mode .

The body 110 may also include receiving portions 150a, 150b, and 150c to receive the first input portion 160 (eg, see Figures 1A-1C). The first feed portion 160 may be attached to the body 110 (e.g., formed integrally with the body 110 by means of a fastener such as a screw, etc.) or may be removably connected to the body 110 receiving portions 150a, 150b, 150c (e.g., removable connected to the body 110). The second feed part 170 may also be attached to the body 110 (e.g. formed integrally with the body 110 by means of a fastening device such as a screw, etc.) or may be removably connected to a receiving part (not shown) of the body 110 (e.g. .removably connected to the body 110).

The music signal generated by the music signal generator 130 can be received by the output part 140 (e.g. sound generator, speaker, amplifier, output device for outputting the music signal to an external speaker) and cause the output part 140 to produce a sound (e.g. a sound such as chords, notes, pitches) that simulate the sound of a traditional musical instrument, and can also produce additional sounds (e.g. hybrid sounds, such as the sound of a combination of a trumpet and piano) that a traditional musical instrument is not capable of to produce. More specifically, the music device 100 may include a hybrid traditional and electronic, analog and digital musical instrument in the traditional instrument categories of strings, woodwinds, brass instruments, keyboard instruments, and guitar, or a fully digital input musical instrument that may be radically different from traditional musical instruments. The music device 100 can provide a new methodology and system for creating musical, tonal and sound variations.

As a result of its design, attributes and methodologies, the music device 100 can be designed more ergonomically, be less physically demanding and easier to play by individuals with a large variation in the size of human hands, finger strength, arm length, breathing capacity and physical characteristics. The music device 100 can make it easier to learn, play, compose and perform music than with traditional musical instruments, which will open up more future musicians and composers of different ages, physical variations and skill levels.

The music device 100 can completely eliminate a possibility of mistakenly playing a desired chord, note, pitch or other variation, and can enable musicians and composers to master a musical instrument more easily and in a shorter time, and thus give the user the opportunity to focus on creating, composing, playing, performing and/or sharing music.

In an example aspect, the music device 100 may provide a new system for creating music, and more specifically, may enable a user to change the musical parameters (tones or sounds) of keys, notes, chords, pitch, or pitch class , scales and octaves in real time (e.g. at full speed). The music device 100 may provide a range of electronic, microprocessor or "machine intelligent" hybrid analog and/or digital musical instruments in the traditional categories of string (eg guitar, violin, cello, etc.), woodwind, brass and keyboard instruments.

The music device 100 may use various combinations or variations of input components, keys, switches, buttons, strings or touch-sensitive zones to change musical parameters (e.g. musical or tonal) of keys, notes, chords, pitch or pitch class, scales and octaves ( eg on a fixed or removable neck). The musical device 100 can emulate the traditional musical instrument categories of string (eg, guitar, violin, cello, etc.), woodwind, brass, and keyboard instruments. As described in more detail below, the music device 100 may allow variations not possible with traditional instruments or conventional electronic instruments (eg, synthetic instruments, such as an electronic guitar or electronic piano).

In addition, the music device 100 may include a common methodology for producing, altering, and terminating keys, notes, octaves, pitches or keys, notes, or any sound variations and parameters. With the music device 100, a musician (eg a beginning musician) can thus be able to learn these different instruments more easily and quickly by means of the methodologies and the commonality between the instruments.

Referring again to Figure IA, the second input portion 170 may include a touch-sensitive surface. In that way, for example, a user can touch the touch-sensitive surface of the second input part 170 at a location by a first button 135 to generate a second signal corresponding to the first button 135 and so on. In particular, the touch-sensitive surface may include a touch screen to display the plurality of first buttons 135, the plurality of second buttons 138 and the plurality of third buttons 139 and the plurality of fourth buttons P. In this case, for example, a user may touch the touch-sensitive surface of the second input part 170 at a location where a first button 135 is displayed to generate a second signal corresponding to the first button 135 and so on.

The first input portion 160 may include a structural element of a brass instrument (e.g., a brass instrument mouthpiece), woodwind instrument (e.g., a woodwind instrument mouthpiece), stringed instrument (e.g., strings of a stringed instrument), or keyboard instrument (e.g., a piano keyboard).

The first input section 160 may be used by the user to set input sound production parameters including, but not limited to, volume, duration, placement variation, speed, pressure, rhythm, strumming-key-pressing-bowing-blowing patterns, pitch bending, vibrato, tremolo , muting, picking, drumming and buzzing, etc.

For example, by plucking harder the strings of the string instrument input module 160c in Fig. 1A, a user can cause the music signal generator 130 to generate a music signal corresponding to a stronger sound, and by more gently plucking the strings of the string instrument input module 160c in Fig. 1A, by blowing harder (eg, increased air pressure, speed, etc.) on the brass instrument input module 160a of Figure 1B, a user can cause the musical signal generator 130 to generate a musical signal corresponding to a weaker sound 130 to generate a music signal corresponding to a louder sound, and by blowing more gently (eg, increased air pressure, speed, etc.) on the brass instrument input module 160a, a user can cause the music signal generator 130 to generate a music signal corresponding with a weaker sound and so on.

The second input part 170 may be used by the user to provide a methodology for setting and/or adjusting a sound parameter which may be radically different from any acoustic or electronic (e.g. synthetic) musical devices (e.g. musical instrument). In particular, the parameters that can be set by the first plurality of buttons 135 for the second input part 170 may include, but are not limited to, keys A to G (including harmonic center or tonic), chords (including major, minor, cross, b, diminished , augmented, slash, fifth, dominant), pitch (including harmonics, frequency), and octave (twelve semitones).

The parameters that can be set by the second plurality of buttons 138 include scales (including chromatic, whole tone, pentatonic, diminished, diatonic, sign) and notes.

The parameters that can be set by the third plurality of buttons P include effects (including accent, sustain, distortion, dynamics, filters, modulation, time-based, reverb, feedback). For example, the plurality of fourth buttons P can be programmed to provide a fine adjustment of the key/chord indicated by the user by touching a button of the plurality of first buttons 135. Alternatively, the plurality of fourth buttons P can be programmed to provide other effects such as accent, sustain, distortion , dynamics, filters, modulation, time-based, reverberation and feedback.

It is important that the plurality of first, second, third and fourth buttons, 135,138,139, P can be programmed by the user. This can mean that the music device 100 can be adapted to the user's unique needs. For example, if a user generally plays music only in the key of "C", the user can program the music device 100 to eliminate other keys (eg, D, E, F, etc.) from the second plurality of first buttons 135, where the remaining the plurality of first buttons 135 can be programmed to be dedicated to another application (eg effects such as accent, sustain, distortion, dynamics, filters, modulation, time-based, reverb and feedback).

Furthermore, the settings of the music device 100 can be stored in a memory device (e.g., memory device 370 for one or more users. In this way, for example, a first player can program the music device 100 to include his settings (e.g., setting for first input part, second input part setting, etc.), and a second player can program the music device 100 to include his settings. Then, the first player can select the first player mode by using the mode setting switch 119 so that the music device 100 is set to the settings of a first player, and the second player can select the second player mode by using the mode setting switch 119 so that the music device 100 is set to the settings of a second player and so on.

Furthermore, as illustrated in Figure IA, the music device 100 can be programmed so that the plurality of first buttons 135 can include the first seven subdivisions (eg, the seven buttons furthest from the body 110), and are primary (tonic, the key of the tuning of the instrument ) or secondary inputs (key or major chord of the sound or music being played) of keys A to G. Further, the plurality of fourth buttons P may be formed adjacent to the plurality of first buttons 135 in a longitudinal direction, and may be programmed for variations, including but not limited to limited to, chords, pitch and octave. Further, the plurality of second buttons 138 may be adjacent to the plurality of fourth buttons P in a longitudinal direction, and may include twelve input/output subdivisions programmed for single-note play in the selected key (e.g., the key selected by the user by touching a button of the plurality first buttons 135), chromatic scales or twelve octave semitones.

In addition, the plurality of third buttons 139 may be formed on the body 110 as illustrated in Figure IA, or may be formed on one side of the neck 175 as illustrated in Figure 1E. For example, the plurality of third buttons 139 can be programmed to provide a fine adjustment of the key/chord entered by the user by touching a button of the plurality of first buttons 135. For example, a user can touch a third button 139 to cause the music device 100 to record a "key" that is between the key of "C" and the key of "D". Alternatively, the plurality of third buttons 139 can be programmed to provide other effects such as accent, sustain, distortion, dynamics, filters, modulation, time-based, reverb and feedback.

With the music device 100, if the user selects a C chord, then the music signal generator 130 can generate a music signal to create a perfect C chord, regardless of the user's musical ability, skill, and talent, regardless of the location within the C chord section, and regardless of the power which is used by the user. If the user switches from a C chord to an Am7 and the input sequence is correct, then the music signal generator 130 can generate a perfect Am7 chord, again regardless of the user's musical ability, experience and talent, and regardless of the position within the Am7 chord section, the force applied by the user.

Furthermore, the user can use the plurality of other buttons 138 to operate in a single tone section. For example, by selecting one of the plurality of other buttons, a user can cause the music signal generator to generate a tone within the twelve variations of the chromatic scale to be played, and further, the tone can be perfectly based on the key/chord selected by the user by touching one of the plurality of first buttons 135. In short, each variation played by the user can be tonally and musically perfect.

Furthermore, the first and second input parts 160, 170 of the music device 100 can be programmed according to the user's unique wishes. For example, a user may program the music device 100 to have a first setting where one of the plurality of other buttons 138 includes C (e.g., C4 in the chromatic scale), C#, D, and D# that is pressed by a user to obtain the music signal generator 130 to generate a music signal corresponding to a musical note C, C#, D and D# respectively

(ie sounds that have frequencies of 261.63 Hz, 277.18 Hz, 293.67 Hz and 311.13 Hz respectively).

Alternatively, a user may wish to play certain parts (eg, notes) of the music device 100 "out of tune" or "falsely" under some circumstances. In this case, for example, the user may program the music device 100 to have a second setting such that one of the plurality of second buttons 138 may be pressed by a user to cause the music signal generator 130 to generate a music signal corresponding to a sound different from a frequency of a musical note in the tonal scale (e.g. different from the notes C, C#, D and D#). Thus, for example, a second button of the plurality of second buttons 138 can be pressed to generate a sound having a frequency between 261.63 Hz and 277.18 Hz, another second button of the plurality of second buttons 138 can be pressed to generate a sound that has a frequency between 277.18 Hz and 293.67 Hz, and so on.

Further, the user may touch a third button of the plurality of third buttons 139, or a fourth button of the plurality of fourth buttons P, to "fine tune" the settings of the plurality of first and second buttons 135, 138 in real time (e.g., to adjust the settings " at full speed"). Thus, for example, a user may play in the first setting (eg, play the notes C, C#, D, and D#), and may touch a third button of the plurality of third buttons 139, or a fourth button of the plurality of fourth buttons P to change to the other setting (eg play notes other than C, C#, D and D#).

Referring again to the drawings, Figure 1B illustrates the music device 100 configured to include a first input portion 160 in the form of a brass instrument input module 160a (eg, brass instrument mouthpiece) connected to the receiver portion 150a, and Figure 1C illustrates the music device 100 configured to include first input part 160 in the form of an input module for a woodwind instrument 160b (e.g. woodwind instrument mouthpiece) connected to the receiver part 150a.

The input module 160a may have a shape and function similar to the mouthpiece of a conventional brass instrument (e.g., French horn, trumpet, trombone, and tuba), and the input module 160b may have a shape and function similar to the mouthpiece of a conventional woodwind instrument (e.g., bassoon, clarinet, flute, oboe and saxophone, harmonica, bagpipes, etc.).

The first input portion 160 may include systems or intelligence integrated therein that may operate with the music device 100 to recognize several parameters of the music device 100 including, but not limited to, left- or right-handed assignment and type of conventional instrument emulation, electrification or non-electrification, illuminated or non-illuminated etc.

Figure ID illustrates an example of a connection between a brass instrument input module 160a (e.g., first input part 160) and a receiver part 150a of the body 110. As illustrated in Figure ID, the input module 160a (e.g., first input part 160) includes metal contacts 161 and a first portion 162 of a fastening structure (eg, hook, clip, clip, screw, hole, etc.), and the receiving portion 150a includes metal contacts 151 that mate with the metal contacts 161 to complete an electrical connection between the brass instrument input module 160a and the receiver part 150a.

The metal contacts 151 and 161 can also be used to transfer current from the current source 115 in the body 110 to the input module for the brass instrument 160a. In addition, the input module 160a includes a metal contact 169 and the receiver part 150a includes a metal contact 159 which can be used to transmit the second input signal generated in the input module 160a to the body 110.

It should be noted that the drawings are exemplary only and should not be considered restrictive. That is, the first input part 160 and the receiver part 150a can include any number of metal contacts to transfer current from the body 110 to the first input part 160, and to transfer the second input signal from the first input part 160 to the body 110.1 addition it is noted that a portion of the circuit 165 (eg, filter, amplifier, etc.) for generating the second input signal may also be placed in the body 110 instead of in the first input part 160.

In addition, the receiving portion 150a includes a second portion 152 (e.g., connecting portion 152) of a fastening structure (e.g., hook, clip, clip, screw, hole, etc.) configured to mate with the first portion 162 to securely and removably connect the brass instrument feed module 160a to the receiver portion 150a of the body.

Figure ID also illustrates a circuit 165 for recording and transmitting an input into the brass instrument input module 160a. The circuit 165 includes a

pressure transducer 164a which is connected to the metal contacts 161 and senses a pressure in the input module 160a and generates an electric current representative of the pressure, and a processing circuit 164b to process the current from the transducer 164a into the second input signal.

The pressure transducer 164a can be used to convert the pressure inside the input module 160a (e.g. nozzle) which is caused, for example, by a user blowing into the hole 165 (e.g. see Figure 1B) of the input module 160a. The input module 160a may also include another hole (not shown) that may allow air to exit the input module 160a and the user to blow into the hole 165. The pressure transducer 164a may produce an electrical signal by measuring a change in one of capacitance, resistance, and inductance in response on the pressure inside the input module 160a. For example, the pressure transducer may include a capacitor such that the pressure inside the input module 160a pushes one plate of the capacitor closer to another plate causing a change in capacitance of the capacitor, or the pressure transducer 164a may include a strain gauge attached to a diaphragm, and the pressure may distort the diaphragm and causing a change in the resistance of the strain gauge and so on.

A structure and operation of the woodwind instrument input module 160b may be similar to the structure and operation of the brass instrument input module 160a described above.

Figure 1E illustrates the musical device 100 configured to include a neck 175 (eg, similar to a guitar neck, violin neck, cello neck, etc.) for a stringed instrument (eg, a guitar neck), which is connected to the receiver portion 150c. as illustrated in Figure 1E, the second feed portion 170 may be formed on the neck 175.

Like the first input portion 160, the neck 175 includes metal contacts 161 and a first portion 162 of a fastening structure (eg, hook, clip, clip, screw, etc.), and the receiving portion 150c includes metal contacts 151 that mate with the metal contacts 161 to complete an electrical connection between the neck 175 and the receiver part 150c. In addition, the receiver portion 150c includes a second portion 152 of the attachment structure (e.g., hook, clip, clamp, screw, etc.) configured to mate with the first portion 162 to securely and removably (e.g., and rotatably) connect the neck 175 with the receiving part 150c of the body 110.

Like body 110, neck 175 may also include core electronics, processing and interface modules. For example, the neck 175 may also include a power source such as a battery pack or a connection (eg, with a power cord) to an external power source (eg, standard AC or DC electrical power source). The neck 175 may also include a selector for selecting the musical signal corresponding to one of a string instrument, woodwind instrument, brass instrument, and keyboard instrument. The neck 175 may also include systems or intelligence integrated therein that may operate with the music device 100 to recognize several of the music device 100 parameters, including but not limited to left- or right-handed assignment and type of conventional instrument emulation, electrification or non-electrification, illuminated or non-illuminated etc.

As illustrated in Figure 1E, the subdivisions of the neck 175 (e.g., the plurality of first and second buttons 135,138) may be separated, for example, by the plurality of ribbon emulators 177 (e.g., shown in Figure 1E as a line separating the plurality of first and second buttons 135, 138). The ribbon emulators 177 may, for example, include a raised surface on a surface of the neck 175, or an illuminated surface (eg, which may be illuminated by a plurality of light emitting diodes formed in the neck 175).

The neck 175 may also include an auditory setting selector, for selecting an auditory function setting for the first input portion (e.g., and second input portion described below), from a plurality of auditory function settings, wherein the auditory setting selector includes one of a selector for key setting, a pitch setting selector, a chord setting selector, a pitch setting selector, a pitch class setting selector, a scale setting selector and an octave setting selector. The Halsen 175 can also include inputs such as switches, dials, a universal serial bus (USB), parallel ports and serial ports, and can also include outputs such as audio outputs, wireless transmitters, etc.

Furthermore, the neck 175 can be connected to the receiver part 150a or the receiver part 150c, which can enable the user to configure the music device 100 as a primarily left-handed or right-handed instrument. This can mean that the music device 100 can be arranged in a right-handed mode or a left-handed mode. Furthermore, the music device 100 can be symmetrically configured for either left- or right-handed use.

As illustrated in Figure 1E, the neck 175 may also include a touch sensitive input/output zone 176 formed on a major surface of the neck 175 (e.g., a surface coplanar with a major surface of the body 110), the plurality of tape emulators 177 formed on the main surface and other input structures (eg switches, keys, buttons, etc.) which may be formed on one side of the neck 175.

The neck 175 may also include a receiver portion 179, and a logo 190 removably connected to the receiver portion 179. The logo 190 may be connected to the receiver portion 179 in a manner similar to that described with respect to Figure 1F. The logo 190 may be fixed or removable, replaceable, electronic or non-electronic, electrifiable (for lighting or other electrified applications), personalized identifier, standard or customizable logo or shape. The logo 190 may include systems or intelligence integrated therein that may operate with the music device 100 to recognize several parameters of the music device 100, including but not limited to left- or right-handed assignment and type of conventional instrument emulation, electrification or non-electrification, illuminated or non- illuminated etc.

The logo 190 may also be equipped with electronics to provide a "handshake" protocol between the logo 190 and the neck 175. With such a protocol, the electronic module of the music device 100 may be required to detect a recognized handshake signature of the logo 190 in order for the logo 190 must be properly connected to the neck 175 and operate properly. Other features of the music device 100 may also include such a handshake signature (eg, neck 175, brass instrument input module 160a, etc.).

In addition, the second input portion 170 (or instead of the second input portion 170) the neck 175 may include a touch-sensitive surface. In particular, the touch-sensitive surface may include a touch screen (eg, a display screen with a touch-sensitive surface) to display functions for generating an input signal that can be used by the music signal generator 130 to generate the music signal. For example, a touch-sensitive surface on the neck 175 may display a plurality of first buttons 135, a plurality of second buttons 138, and a plurality of fourth buttons P (eg, similar to the second input portion 170). That is, for example, a user may touch the touch-sensitive surface of the neck 175 at a location where the first button 135 is displayed to generate a second input signal corresponding to the first button 135, and so on.

Further, as illustrated in Figure 1E, the first input portion 160 may also include a string instrument input module 160c as another structural element of the string instrument (eg, guitar). The string instrument input module 160c may be connected (e.g., electrically connected and physically connected) to the receiver portion 150b of the body 110 in a manner similar to the manner described above with respect to Figure ID (e.g., see Figure 1F).

Furthermore, the first input part 160 (e.g., the brass instrument input module 160a, the woodwind instrument input module 160b, the string instrument input module 160c, and the keyboard instrument input module 160d) may include both electronic and traditional acoustic functions.

Thus, for example, a user can select acoustic mode (e.g. by applying

the mode setting switch 119) which causes the first input part 160 to operate in an acoustic mode which causes the music signal generator 130 to generate a music signal corresponding to an acoustic instrument. For example, if the string instrument input module 160c is connected to the body 110, and acoustic mode is selected by the user, then the music signal generator 130 can generate a music signal corresponding to an acoustic guitar, acoustic violin, etc.

The acoustic functions of the string instrument input module 160c may include, for example, a soundboard (e.g., a piece of wood mounted on the front of the body 110) that amplifies the sound generated by a sound generator connected to the strings of the module 160c, to generate a sound of a acoustic guitar.

Thus, in the music device 100 in Figure 1E, the music signal generator 130 of the electronic module can generate the music signal based on one of several of the first input signal generated by the second input part 170, and the second input signal generated by the string instrument input module 160c. Alternatively, the neck 175 may also include a third input portion formed thereon, in which case the music signal generator 130 may generate the music signal based on one or more of a first input signal generated by the second input portion 170, a second input signal generated by the string instrument input module 160c, and a third input signal from the third feed part formed on the neck 175.

The body 110 may also include a vibrato handle (eg, whammy bar) that is connected to the input module 160c and may enable a user to quickly vary the tension and sometimes the length of the strings on the input module 160c temporarily, changing the pitch to create an effect of vibrato, portamento or pitch bend.

Figure 1F illustrates a detailed view of a bottom surface of the string instrument input module 160c to be connected to the receiver part 150b. The string instrument input module 160c may include a plurality of strings 166 (eg, metal strings) (eg, see Figure 1E) and an electrical circuit 165 for generating a second input signal. In particular, the plurality of strings 166 can be electrically connected to a sensor 167 in the circuit 165 to sense a vibration of the plurality of strings 166 electronically to generate the second input signal.

Similar to the brass instrument input module 160a in Figure ID, the string instrument input module 160c may include metal contacts 161 and a first portion 162 of a fastening structure (eg, hook, clip, clip, screw, etc.). In addition, the input module 160c includes a metal contact 169 and the receiver part 150a includes a metal contact 159 which can be used to send the second input signal generated in the first input part 160 to the output part 140 in the body 110.

The circuit 165 of the string instrument input module 160c may resemble a circuit in a conventional electric guitar. For example, the sensor 167 may include a magnetic pickup mounted below the strings of the string instrument input module. The magnetic pickup may include a bar magnet wound with a coil, where the vibrating strings produce a corresponding vibration in the magnet's magnetic field and therefore a vibrating current in the coil.

The string instrument input module 160c may also include a signal processing circuit 168 (eg, similar to a traditional electric guitar processing circuit) for processing the current generated in the coil into the second input signal. For example, the processing circuit 168 may include a variable resistor to adjust a tone of the first input signal, and a low pass filter to filter out higher frequencies, and a resistor to control an amplitude of the second input signal.

Figure 1G illustrates a music device 100 configured to include the second input portion 170, the neck 175, and a keyboard input module 160d. Thus, in the music device 100 in Figure 1G, the music signal generator 130 (e.g. the electronic module) can generate the music signal based on one of several of the first input signal generated by the second input part 170, and the second input signal generated by the input module for keyboard instrument 160d.

The key instrument input module 160d may include a circuit similar to the circuit 165 of Figure 1F. The input module 160d may generate the second input signal in a manner similar to the manner of generating an input signal on a conventional digital piano, electric piano, or electronic piano.

For example, configured as a digital piano, the input module 160d can replicate the sound and feel of playing an acoustic piano, by producing an audio signal sampled digitally, and having keys with a weighted key action to imitate the action of an acoustic piano. Configured like an electric piano, the input module 160d may include a metal rod or string that vibrates and a pickup (eg, as in an electric guitar) to detect the vibration of the string. Configured as an electronic piano (eg, electronic keyboard), the input module 160d may include a memory for storing a database of computer-generated sounds, and may generate a computer-generated audio signal based on a selected key on the keyboard of the input module 160d.

Like the second input portion 170 and neck 175, the receiver portion 150a may be replaced with a touch-sensitive surface (eg, a touch screen) to display the structural elements of a string instrument, woodwind instrument, brass instrument, or keyboard instrument. This means, for example, that a user can touch the touch-sensitive surface at a place where the structural element corresponds to the structural element in order to generate a second input signal.

Figure 1H illustrates an underside 11 la of the body 110 (e.g., a planar surface formed opposite to the main surface of the body 110 on which the receiver portion 150b is formed), and an underside 11 lb of the neck 175. As illustrated in Figure 1H, an access opening 112a

(e.g. access door, panel, etc.) be formed on the underside 11 la, and an access opening 112b may be formed on the underside 11 lb of the neck 175.1 in addition, an access opening 113a may be formed on a side surface of the body 110, and an access opening 113b can be formed on a side surface of the neck 175. For example, the music device 100's internal electronics, panels, systems and peripherals can be accessed through the access openings 112a, 112b, and 113a, 113b.

Figure II illustrates the music device 100 including a connection 191 for connecting the neck 175 to the body 110. As illustrated in Figure II, the connection may include a rotation mechanism such as a hinge mechanism or a joint so that the neck 175 may rotate out of the plane of the body 110. For for example, the connection 191 may enable the neck 175 to rotate in a range of 0° to 90°, and may include a locking mechanism (eg, screw, bolt, pin, clip, clamp, etc.) to lock the neck 175 in a fixed angle in relation to the body 110. It can provide the musical device 100 with an appearance similar to a woodwind instrument such as a clarinet or saxophone.

Furthermore, the connection 191 may include a mechanism (e.g., a joint or a biaxial hinge) that allows the neck 175 to rotate downward and out of the plane of the body 110, and may also allow the neck 175 to rotate from side to side (f .eg in the plane of the body).

The connection 191 may also include a rotation mechanism that allows the neck 195 to be rotated about its longitudinal axis (eg, the dashed line in Figure II) with respect to the body 110, as illustrated by the arrow in Figure II.

Furthermore, although the neck 175 is illustrated in Figure II with a square cylinder shape, the neck 175 may have other shapes including, for example, a plate shape, a circular cylinder shape, or a semicircular shape.

Figure IK illustrates a musical device 100 including a percussion input module 160e connected to the receiver part 150b, and a neck 175 connected to the receiver part 150c and including a touch-sensitive surface 285 that shows the surfaces of a percussion instrument (eg drums, xylophone, glockenspiel, cymbals, etc. .). The percussion instrument input module 160e may include a head and circuitry associated with the head similar to circuitry in a conventional electric percussion instrument (eg, electric drum kit).

As illustrated in Figure 1K, the input module 160e may include a head (eg, programmable touch sensitive stick) that can be programmed by the user for different input game modes. As in all of the other input parts 160 (and touch-sensitive surfaces 280, 285), the input module 160e may include systems or intelligence integrated therein that may operate with the music device 100 to recognize several parameters of the music device 100, including, but not limited to, left or right-handed assignment and type of conventional instrument emulation, electrification or non-electrification, illuminated or non-illuminated, etc.

Thus, the music device 100 can include many different configurations. For example, Figures 2A-2E illustrate some examples of how the music device 100 can be configured.

Figure 2A illustrates a music device 100 including a touch-sensitive surface 280 (e.g., touch screen formed on the body 110 (e.g., in place of the receiver portion 150b), and a woodwind instrument input module 160b connected to the receiver portion 150a, and a neck 175 connected to the receiver portion 150c. The neck 175 includes a touch-sensitive surface 285 (e.g., touch screen). In this example aspect, both the touch-sensitive surface 280 and the touch-sensitive surface 285 show keys on a woodwind instrument such as a clarinet, saxophone, oboe, or bassoon.

Furthermore, the keys displayed on the touch-sensitive surface 280 and/or the touch-sensitive surface 285 may correspond to the keys on the second input part 170. Thus, for example, by touching a key displayed on the touch-sensitive surface 280, 285, the music signal may cause a C- note is generated, by touching another note, the musical signal can cause a G note to be generated and so on.

The touch sensitive surfaces 280,285 may include a programmable touch sensitive user interface that can be programmed by the user for different input game modes. For example, the touch-sensitive surface 280, 285 may display the keys of a keyboard (eg, a traditional piano key design), the valves of a brass instrument, the flaps of a woodwind instrument, and/or the strings of a stringed instrument.

Just like the second input portion 170 and the input modules 160a-160d, the touch sensitive surfaces 280,285 may include integrated processing or intelligent electronics that can interact with the electronics in the music device 100 (eg, see Figure 3B) to identify the type of input module, type of instruments to be emulated , left-handed or right-handed mode selection, etc.

A user may use the selector 116 to select a structural instrument element to be displayed on the touch-sensitive surface 280 and the touch-sensitive surface 285 from among a plurality of structural elements (eg, clarinet keys, trumpet valves, saxophone keys, piano keys, guitar strings, etc.). In addition, the neck 175 may include a selector 295 to adjust the display of a structural instrument element to be displayed on the touch sensitive surface 285 .

Figure 2B illustrates a musical device 100 including a brass instrument input module 160a connected to the receiver portion 150a, a touch-sensitive surface 280 showing the valves of a brass instrument or the flaps of a woodwind instrument, and a neck 175 including a touch-sensitive surface 285 showing a trombone slide 286. Furthermore , as illustrated in Figure 2B, the neck 175 can be rotatably connected to the body 110. In particular, the neck 175 can be rotatable about its longitudinal axis so that a planar surface of the touch-sensitive surface 285 is substantially perpendicular to a planar surface of the body 110.

As illustrated in Figure IA, the body 110 may also include an orientation detection/setting module 114 that detects the orientation of the body 110 and sets a display for the touch screen 280 on the body 110 based on the detected orientation. Likewise, the neck 175 may include an orientation detection/setting module that detects the orientation of the neck 175, and indicates a display of the touch-sensitive surface 285 on the neck 175. The orientation detection/setting module 114 may allow the music device 100 to be configured differently depending on whether the music device 100 is used by a right-handed person user or a left-handed user. In particular, the orientation detection/setting module 114 can enable the touch-sensitive surface 280 on the body 110 and the touch-sensitive surface 285 on the neck 175 to be configured differently depending on whether the device 100 is used by a left-handed user or a right-handed user. Furthermore, changing from a left-handed user to a right-handed user can cause the device 100 to reconfigure (eg, automatic reconfiguration), without the need for user input.

Figure 2C illustrates a music device 100 which includes a keyboard instrument input module 160d connected to the receiver part 150b, and a neck 175 connected to the receiver part 150c and which includes a touch-sensitive surface 285 which displays keys on a keyboard instrument. Figure 2D illustrates a musical device 100 that includes a string instrument input module 160c connected to the receiver part 150b, and a neck 175 connected to the receiver part 150c and that includes a touch-sensitive surface 285 that displays keys of a keyboard instrument. Figure 2E illustrates a musical device 100 which includes a string instrument input module 160c connected to the receiver part 150a, and a neck 175 connected to the receiver part 150c and which includes a touch sensitive surface 285 displaying a trombone slide 286.

Alternatively, the string instrument input module 160c of Figure 2E may be replaced with a touch-sensitive surface 280. In this case, similar to the circuit 165 of the string instrument input module 160c illustrated in Figure 1F, the touch-sensitive surface 280 may also include a memory device that stores various programs and data, and a microcontroller that accesses the memory device to control the operations of the touch-sensitive surface 280. In particular, the memory device can store a plurality of "string configurations". Variations may include variations in number of strands, thickness and spacing, analog or digital activation identification of strands with examples of embodiments with four (4) or more strands. Variations may include, but are not limited to, emulation of traditional instruments, including but not limited to mandolins, banjos, guitars, and bass guitars, and emulation based on finger input on classical stringed instruments such as double bass, cello, harp, or violin.

Figure 3A illustrates a system 300 for creating music, according to an example of an aspect of the present invention.

As illustrated in Figure 3, system 300 includes a device (eg, computer 394) for generating a programming signal, and a music device 350 programmable by the programming signal, for creating music. The music device 350 includes a first input part for generating a first signal based on a user input, a music signal generator for generating a music signal based on the first signal, and a second input part for generating a second signal based on a user input, where the second signal controls the music signal generator, and the second input part includes a plurality of first buttons corresponding to a range including at least one of a key, note and a chord, and a plurality of second buttons corresponding to at least one of a tone and a tonal scale within that range.

The system 300 may also include a display device 360 that may display musical notation (eg, indicia) corresponding to the plurality of first buttons for the first input portion of the music device. The display device 360 may include a transceiver to communicate (eg, via wired or wireless communication) with the music device 350. A user may read and follow a piece of music displayed on the display device 360 to play on the device 350.

The system 300 may also include a display device 397 that can be worn by a user, such as a head-up display device display device. The display device 397 may for example include a wireless transceiver that is wirelessly connected to the music device 100.

Figure 3B illustrates an electrical circuit 365 that may be included in the music device 350 (eg, and the music device 100), according to an example aspect of the present invention. As illustrated in Figure 3B, the circuit 365 can include a memory device 370 that can store programs and data such as personal information and music compositions, and a microcontroller 371 (eg, a programmable microcontroller) that can access the memory device 370 to control an operation of the music device 350. The circuit 365 may be electrically connected to the second input portion 170, the music signal generator 130, and the output portion 140. The microcontroller 371 may also be electrically connected to the receiver portions 150a, 150b, and 150c (and, therefore, to the second input portion), the power source 115, the selector 116, and the auditory function setting selector 117.

The microcontroller 371 can also be connected to the transceiver 118 so that the microcontroller 371 can control a communication between the music device 350 and external devices such as the other devices in the system 300.

Referring again to Figure 3A, the system 300 may also include a foot pedal module 390 that includes a transceiver for communicating (e.g., via wired or wireless communication) with the music device 350. The module 390 may include an input portion 391 (e.g., foot pedal) which receives an input for wireless tuning of the music signal generated by the music signal generator 130. For example, the input portion 391 can generate an input signal that can change the music signal to change the musical parameters (tonal or sounds) of keys, notes, chords, pitch or pitch class, scales and octaves to sounds generated by an output part 140 (eg sound generator) based on the music signal. In such cases, the music signal generator 130 can generate the music signal based at least in part on the input signal from the module 390.

The system 300 may include a bow 392 (eg, a hybrid bow) for playing the music device 350 when configured to include a string instrument input module 160c. The bow 392 may also include a transceiver for communicating (eg, via wired or wireless communication) with the music device 350 .

The system 300 may also include an external sound generator 393 which may, for example, include an amplifier to amplify the music signal generated by the music signal generator 130. The external sound generator 393 may also include a transceiver to communicate (eg, wired or wireless communication) with the music device 350 .

The system 300 may also include a computer 394 or computer system (eg, server) connected to a network (eg, the Internet). The computer 394 can, for example, be used to program the microcontroller 371 of the music device 350. Furthermore, the music device 350 can access information such as online music libraries through the computer 394 (e.g., online music libraries), and store such information in the memory device 370. The computer 394 can also include a transceiver to communicate (eg, wired or wireless communication) with the music device 350.

The elements of system 300 may represent an input, output, interface, control, operating system, processing, storage, memory, software, firmware, interconnect, standard and proprietary protocols, power supply and battery components, wired and wireless connections, and upgradeable software and/or firmware and upgradeable feature system to not only emulate traditional musical instruments, systems and sounds, but also to enable inputs and outputs not possible on conventional musical instruments. Achieving this capability requires the following elements: The components of system 300 include, but are not limited to, fixed or removable inputs, outputs, interfaces, controls, operating system, processing, storage, memory, software, firmware, interconnects, standard and proprietary protocols, power supply and battery components, wired and wireless connections and updatable software and/or firmware and upgradeability. It should be noted that the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1A-3B are only examples and should not be considered limiting of the present invention.

In particular, the plurality of first buttons 135 in the second input portion 170 in Figure IA may include, for example, twenty-four (21) buttons (eg, input/output subdivisions). These subdivisions are fully programmable by the user. In another example aspect, the first seven subdivisions of the second input section 170 (those closest to the logo output section 140) are primary (tonic, key of the music device 100) or secondary (key or major chord of the sound or music played by the music device 100) key A to G inputs. The next two buttons (following the first seven buttons in one direction from output section 140) may be programmable for variations including, but not limited to, chords, pitch, and octave. The next twelve buttons can be programmed for single note playing in the selected key, the chromatic scales or twelve octave semitones and so on.

Furthermore, the neck 175 of Figure 1E may include twelve buttons (eg, input/output subdivisions). Twelve buttons can provide a user with all the functionality of the twenty-one buttons in connection with three inputs, although fewer buttons will reduce variations and most likely increase the speed and control of changes. Designs with less than twelve buttons are considered, but will have limitations in relation to inputs and output variations and playability.

Further, the foot pedal module 390 illustrated in Figure 3A includes three pedals 391 (e.g., input/output switches), but the module 390 may include any number of pedals 391. Furthermore, the module 390 may control any of the parameters of the first and second the input portion 160, 170, and may also add other user input (e.g., via a foot or feet) to the potential user's (e.g., simultaneous) input variations.

The invention and its various input/output parts (eg, first input part 160, second input part 170, foot pedal module 390) can enable the user to never play an incorrect musical sound or variation. The user can achieve almost perfect timbre. For example, if the user selects a C chord, it will always be a perfect C chord regardless of the time the user has dedicated to the invention, the location within the C chord section, the force applied by the user, how long the user presses the button (e.g. key, etc.), or the number of times the user has played a C chord.

If the user switches from a C chord to an Am7 and the input sequence is correct, it will also be a perfect Am7 chord. If the user moves to the single note section, the twelve variations of the chromatic scale will be perfectly based on the key that the user is currently playing. Even if the sequence or variation of notes, chords, etc. was not intended to be played by the user, each variation will be perfect in a tonal and musical sense.

Furthermore, the components of the music device 100, 350 and the other components of the system 300 may be digital electronic components, and may include an operating system and support software to support the operating system. The invention contemplates both digital and analog input/output between the music device 100, 350 and other functions of the system 300. Further, although not illustrated in Figure 3A, the system 300 may include other devices and corresponding interconnections including, but not limited to, amplifiers, sound cards, digital and analog recording equipment, computer keyboards, Internet protocols, Bluetooth or other wireless protocols, personal digital assistants (PDAs), smart phones (e.g. iPhone), other music protocol devices (e.g. MIDI-enabled devices), USB devices, Firewire, headphones, plug-in speaker modules, solid state storage devices (SSD) and other music devices 100, 350.

For example, the transceiver 118 (e.g. wireless transceivers) in the music device 350 can enable wireless communication between a plurality of music devices 100, 350. Thus, for example, user 1 can play on a music device 100 and can coordinate his performance with user 2 who plays another music device 100. For example, user 1 and user 2 can coordinate rhythms, harmonies, chords, compositions, etc. on the music devices 100 via their respective transceivers 118.

Figure 4 illustrates a method 400 for creating music, according to another example of an aspect of the present invention. As illustrated in Figure 4, the method 400 includes generating (410) a first signal with a first input portion based on a user input, generating (420) a music signal with a music signal generator based on the first signal, and generating (430) a second signal with a second input portion based on a user input, wherein the second signal controls the music signal generator, and the second input portion includes a plurality of first buttons corresponding to an area including at least one of a key, a note, and a chord, and a plurality of second buttons that corresponds to at least one of a tone and a tone scale within the range.

Another example of an aspect of the present invention is directed to a user-selectable primary left- or right-handed operable neck (e.g., neck 175) that includes a connecting portion (e.g., connecting portion 191 in Figure II, or connecting portion 152 in Figure ID) for connection with the body in the music device 100.

Another example of an aspect of the present invention is directed to a user-selectable primary left- or right-handed operable input module (e.g., input modules 160a-160e), which includes a connection portion (e.g., connection portion 191 in Figure II, connection portion 152 in figure ID) for connection with the body in the music device 100.

Another exemplary aspect of the present invention is directed to an electronic logo, which includes a connection and compatibility verifiable part (eg, connection part 191 in Figure II, or connection part 152 in Figure ID), for connection with the neck 175 of the music device 100.

Referring now to Figure 5, system 500 illustrates a typical hardware configuration that may be used to implement the method of the present invention (eg, music device 100, music device 350, system 300, and method 400). The configuration has preferred at least one processor or central processing unit (CPU) 511. The CPUs 511 are interconnected via a system bus 512 to a random access memory (RAM) 514, read-only storage (ROM) 516, input/output adapter (I/O) 518 (to connect peripheral devices such as disk drives 521 and magnetic tape drives 540 to the bus 512), user interface adapter 522 (to connect a keyboard 524, mouse 528, speaker 528, microphone 532, joystick 527 and/or other user interface devices to the bus 512), a communication adapter 534 for connecting an information management system to a data processing network, the Internet, an intranet, a personal computer network (PAN), etc., and a display adapter 536 to connect the bus 512 to a display device 538 and/or printer 539. Furthermore, an automated reader/scanner 541 be included. Such readers/scanners are commercially available from many sources.

In addition to the system described above, another aspect of the invention includes a computer-implemented method for performing the above method. As an example, this method may be implemented in the particular environment described above.

Such a method can, for example, be implemented by operating a computer, which is comprised of a digital data processing device, to execute a sequence of machine-readable instructions. These instructions can reside in various types of non-transitory signal-carrying media.

Thus, this aspect of the present invention is directed to a programmed product, including signal-carrying media tangibly comprising a program of machine-readable instructions executable by a digital data processor to perform the above method.

Such a method can be implemented, for example, by operating the CPU 511 to execute a sequence of machine-readable instructions. These instructions can reside in various types of signal-carrying media.

Thus, this aspect of the present invention is directed to a programmed product, including a non-transitory signal-carrying medium tangibly comprising a program of machine-readable instructions executable by a digital data processor incorporating CPU 511 and the above hardware, to perform the method of the invention.

This signal-carrying medium may include, for example, a RAM contained within the CPU 511, as represented by rapid access storage, for example. Alternatively, the instructions may be contained in another signal-carrying medium, such as a magnetic data storage diskette 600 or CD 602 (Figure 6), directly or indirectly accessible by the CPU 511.

Whether contained within the data server/CPU 511, or elsewhere, the instructions may be stored on a variety of machine-readable data storage media, such as DASD storage (eg, a conventional "hard disk" or a RAID array), magnetic tape, electronic read storage ( e.g., ROM, EPROM, or EEPROM), an optical storage device (e.g., CD-ROM, WORM, DVD, digital optical magnetic tape, etc.), paper punch cards, or other suitable non-transitory signal-carrying media. In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, machine readable instructions may include software object code, compiled from a language such as C, C++, etc.

Figures 7A-22F illustrate a mouse device according to another example of an aspect of the present invention.

As a result of the design, attributes and methodologies, the hybrid instrument according to the exemplary aspects of the present invention may be more ergonomically designed, less physically demanding and easier to play for individuals with a greater variety of human hand sizes, finger strengths, arm lengths, lung capacity and physical characteristics .

The hybrid instrument according to examples of aspects of the present invention can also facilitate easier training, playing, composing and practicing music than on traditional musical instruments, which can open up more future musicians and composers of different ages, physical variations and experience levels.

Examples of aspects of the present invention can completely eliminate incorrect playing of the selected chord, note, pitch or other variations. The examples of aspects of the present invention can enable musicians and composers to easily and in a much shorter time master the hybrid instrument according to the examples of the present invention, which thus enables the user of the present hybrid musical instrument to focus on creating, composing, playing, performing and/or share music.

In an exemplary aspect, the present invention includes a new system for creating music, and more specifically, changing the musical parameters (tonal or sounds) of keys, notes, chords, pitches or pitch class, scales and octaves.

In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention includes a variety of electronic, microprocessor or "machine intelligent" hybrid analog and/or digital musical instruments in the traditional categories of strings, woodwinds, brass instruments, keyboard instruments, and guitar instruments.

The present invention may use various combinations or variations of input components, keys, switches, buttons, strings or touch-sensitive zones to change musical parameters of (musical or tonal) keys, notes, chords, pitch or pitch class, scales and octaves on a fixed or removable neck. The examples of aspects of the present invention may emulate the traditional musical instrument categories of strings, woodwinds, brass, keys, and guitar.

The examples of features of the present invention may also allow for variations that are not possible with traditional instruments or current synthetic instruments.

In one example embodiment, the hybrid musical instruments have a main body that includes various input and output sections, fixed or optional replaceable string, "piano key", mouthpiece input or touch-sensitive field or touch-sensitive stick modules with various replaceable modules and/or "necks" to create a hero new class of musical instruments.

Furthermore, examples of aspects of the present invention can be produced as a single unit or in modules to be configured by the user of the examples of aspects of the present invention as a primarily left-handed or right-handed instrument.

For example, the body of the hybrid instrument according to the exemplary aspects of the present invention includes core electronics, processing and interface modules. The examples of aspects of the present invention may employ various input and output interfaces for musicians.

In addition, the example aspects of the present invention may include a common methodology for producing, changing and terminating keys, notes, octaves, pitches or keys, tone or any sound variations and parameters. Thus, with the examples of aspects of the present invention, a musician (or beginner) may be able to learn these various instruments more easily and quickly by virtue of the methodologies and commonalities between the instruments.

Additionally, the exemplary aspects of the present invention may be capable of outputting both digital and/or analog signals, allowing various output interfaces for various devices including amplifiers, computers, recording equipment, and any device that can accept the specific analog or digital the outputs of the examples of aspects of the present invention.

Referring to the more detailed examples of aspects of the present invention in Figs. 7A shows a "guitar/keyboard" type

hybrid musical instrument version for finger 701, Figure 7B shows a "string" type hybrid musical instrument version for bow 702, Figure 7C shows a "wind" type hybrid musical instrument version for air 703, Figure 7D shows a foot pedal interface 704 for finger 701, bow 702 and air 703 to the examples of aspects of the present invention, in Figure 7E a neck 705 (eg, an alternative number of configurations of the "neck" for input) is shown for the hybrid musical instrument finger 701, bow 702 and air 703 of the invention; and Figure 7F shows a particular hybrid bow, xbow 706 which can be used with a bow 702

In fig. 7A and fig. 8A to fig. 11 shows the main elements of the finger instrument 701. The finger instrument 701 has input and output elements.

In fig. 8A and 8E-8G show section body 800, first input/output zone 801 and corresponding module strings 810, touch surface 811 or tangents 812, input/output zones and corresponding modules 802, first removable neck connection zones CZ 803 and corresponding input/output zone two, I/ U-two necks, and neck 8051 (Figure 8A) which is a touch-sensitive neck in right-handed mode 8051.

Also provided is a neck 8052 (Figure 8C) which is a left-handed mode touch sensitive neck 8052, neck 8061 (Figure 8B) which is a right-handed mode interchangeable neck 8061 or neck 8062 which is a left-handed mode interchangeable neck 8062 (Figure 8D ), fourth input/output zone and corresponding modules 807, first "ribbon emulators" or touch and pressure sensitive rial input/output subdivisions NIS 808, switches, other keys or buttons for neck input/output subdivisions NIS 809, second lever connection zones CZ 804 and corresponding lever 8041 , third logo connection zones CZ 813 and fixed or removable, interchangeable, electronic or non-electronic, electrifiable (for lighting or other electrified applications), personalized identifier, standard or customizable logos or shapes, logo 814 (Figure 8H).

In fig. 9, the back side of finger 701 is shown, where access panel 901 represents removable panels for access to body 800's internal electronics, cards, systems and peripherals, neck connection zone 803 and neck attachments 8051, 8052, 8061 and 8062 are shown for reference.

In fig. 10, a first side view of finger 701 third input/output zone and corresponding modules 1001, input/output zone six and corresponding modules 1002, body 800 and neck assemblies 8051, 8052, 8061 and 8062 are also shown for reference.

In fig. 11 another side view of finger 701, body 800, I/O five 1002 and neck assemblies 8051, 8052, 8061 and 8062 are also shown for reference.

With reference to fig. 12A to fig. 16 also shows the main elements of string instrument 702 in figure IB.

The instrument bow 702 has input and output elements. In Fig. 12A, sections of body 1200 are shown, including an input/output (I/O) zone 1201 and corresponding module strings 1210 (Figure 12C) or touch rods 1211 (Figure 12D), input/output zones and corresponding modules (I/O) 1202, removable neck connection zones CZ 1203 and corresponding two input/output zone I/O necks, including a neck 1251 which is a right-handed mode touch-sensitive neck 1251, and a neck 1252 which is a left-handed mode touch-sensitive neck 1252 (Figure 12F) .

Also shown is a neck 1261 which is an interchangeable right-handed mode neck 1261 (Figure 12B) or neck 1262 (Figure 12E) which is an interchangeable left-handed mode neck 1262, mnfeed/eject zone and corresponding modules I/O 1207, "tape emulators " or touch- and pressure-sensitive Imlsin input subdivisions NIS 1208, switches, keys or buttons for rial input subdivisions NIS 1209, two lever connection zones CZ 1204 and corresponding chin rest 1241, logo connection zone CZ 1212 and fixed or removable, replaceable, electronic or non-electronic, electrifiable (for lighting or other electrified applications), personalized identification, standard or customizable logos or shapes 1213 in Figure 12G.

In fig. 13, the rear side of arch 702 is shown, where access panel 1301 represents removable panels for access to body 1200 internal electronics, cards, systems and peripherals, neck connection zone 1203 and neck assemblies 1251, 1252, 1261 and 1262 are shown for reference.

In fig. 14, a side view of the arch 702 input/output zone and corresponding modules I/O 1401, input/output zone and corresponding modules 1402, body 1200 and neck assemblies 1251, 1252, 1261, and 1262 are also shown for reference.

In fig. 15 another side view of bow 702 is shown, where the body 1200, I/U 1402 and neck assemblies 1251, 1252, 1261, and 1262 are also shown for reference.

In fig. 16, a side view of a particular bow xbow 706 is shown for bow 702 optional input and output module functions are assumed arc string input/output zone I/U 1601 for bow 702.

With reference to air 703 in fig. 17A to fig. 21 shows the main elements of wind instrument 703. The wind instrument 103 has input and output elements.

In fig. 17A, sections of body 1700 are shown, including input/output zone I/U 1701 and corresponding module nozzle 1709 (Figure 17C), input/output zone and corresponding modules I/U 1702, removable neck connection zones CZ 1703 and corresponding input/output zone I/U necks, which include neck 1704 shown in touch-sensitive neck in left-handed mode 1704, and neck 1705 shown with paired switches in right-handed mode 1705, input/output zone and corresponding modules I/O 1706, "tape emulators" or touch- and pressure-sensitive neck input subdivision pairs NIS 1707, switches, keys, buttons or touchpad neck input subdivision pairs NIS 1708, logo connection zone CZ 1710 and fixed or removable, replaceable, electronic or non-electronic, electrifiable (for lighting or other electrified applications), personalized identifier, standard or customizable logos or forms, 1711 in Figure 17D.

Fig. 18 shows the back of wind instrument 703, access panel 1801 represents removable panels for access to body 1700 internal electronics, cards, systems and peripherals, neck assemblies 1704 or 1705 are shown for reference.

In fig. 19, a side view of wind instrument 703 including irm feed/output zone and corresponding modules I/U 1901, input/output zone and corresponding module(s) I/U 1902, body 1700 and neck assemblies 1704 or 1705 is shown for reference.

In fig. 20 another side view of wind instrument 703, body 1700 and rial assemblies 1704 or 1705 and modules I/O 1902 is shown for reference.

In fig. 21 showing another side view of wind instrument 703, the neck 1704 or 1705 can articulate or rotate up to ninety degrees (90°) downward toward a user (ie, a degree of rotation shown at reference numeral 2001), with body 1700 shown for reference .

In fig. 22A shows a peripheral input/output device assigned to zone I/O pedal 704 for use with finger 701, bow 702, or air 703, where electronics and other functions and systems are housed in body 2200, one or more zones and corresponding buttons, switches , keys, modules or other input methods or output devices are assigned to switch 2201.

12202 (see Figure 22B) shows the underside of body 2200. A removable panel 2203 for access to internal pedal components is shown in panel 2202.

Figures 22C-22F show respectively four side views of pedal 704 including a first side view of side 2204, a second side view of side 2205, a third side view of side 2206 and a fourth side view of side 2207. Each side 2204,2205,2206,2207 can have an input output module I/U 2208.

In more detail, the invention of finger 701, bow 702 and air 703, and pedal 704 may include a system of inputs and outputs to change musical parameters (tonal or sounds). The finger 701, bow 702, air 703, and pedal 704 represent an input, output, interface, control, operating system, processing, storage, memory, software, firmware, interconnect, standard and proprietary protocols, power supply and battery components, wired and wireless connections, and upgradeable software and/or firmware and upgradeable functional system not only to emulate traditional musical instruments, systems and sounds, but also to allow inputs and outputs not possible on conventional musical instruments. Achieving this function may require the following elements: In fig. 7A-7F have the finger 701, the bow 702, the air 703 and the pedal 704 common elements that may comprise a system according to an example aspect of the present invention.

Figures 8A-8H, 12A-12H, 17A-17D and 22A-22F show bodies 800, 1200, 1700 and 2200, respectively, which may be designed to accommodate main system components of the invention finger 701, bow 702, air 703 and pedal 704.

System components may include, but are not limited to fixed or removable input, output, interfaces, controllers, operating system, processing, storage, memory, software, firmware, interconnects, standard and proprietary protocols, power supply and battery components, wired and wireless connections, and upgradeable software and/or firmware and upgradable function. The finger 701, the arch 702, and the air 703 when manufactured as a system consisting of components detailed in the figures and descriptions of fig. 8A to fig. 21 of the invention is made with all components configured as symmetrical for user configuration and assembly in either left- or right-handed use.

In fig. 7A-7F include inputs and outputs for the finger 701, bow 702, breath 703, and pedal 704, respectively input/output zone I/U 801, 1201, and 1701, and input/output zone I/U 2201 (Figures 22A-22F). These sections utilize strings 810, touch pad 811, keys 812 assigned as primary input methodology utilizing fingers for I/O 801, I/O 1201, strings 1210, touch sticks 1211 assigned as primary input methodology utilizing a particular arc in FIG. 16 for I/U 1201, nozzle 1709 assigned as primary input methodology using mouth or blowing for I/U 1701, and I/O 2201 assigned as primary input methodology using a foot or feet.

When designed as removable module strings 810, touchpad 811, keys 812, strings 1210, touch wands 1211, and mouthpiece 1709 have systems or intelligence integrated into the module that allow in-body systems 800, 1200, and 1700 to recognize multiple parameters of the modules including, but not limited to left- or right-handed assignment and type of conventional instrument emulation.

The surface or top of body 800, 1200, 1700 and 2200 also includes input/output zones 802, 1202, 1702 and 2201, respectively, which may have dedicated or programmable inputs or outputs. Many embodiments aimed at functionality, size, number of inputs or outputs, etc. are contemplated and I/O zones 802,1202,1702 and 2201 are assigned as primary input methodology using fingers.

The surface of body 800 and 1200 also includes a connection zone CZ 804 and 1204, respectively, used for input and output functions in conjunction with lever 8041 or chin rest 1241.

The rear of body 800,1200,1700 and 2200, (eg, see Figs. 9,13,18 and 22) includes the ability to access integral and removable system and component panels 901, 1301, 1801 and 2201, respectively, in body 800, 1200, 1700 and 2200 shown in figures 8, 12, 17 and 22.

Figures 8A-8H, 12A-12H, 17A-17D and 22A-22F show sides of body 800, respectively 1200, 1700 and 2200. Figures 10, 11, 14, 15, 19, 22 and 22C-22F show input/output zones 1002,1402,1902 and 2208, respectively, which may have dedicated or programmable inputs or outputs. Many embodiments addressing functionality, size, number of inputs or outputs, etc. are contemplated and input/output zones 1402, 1902 and 2208 are assigned as the primary input methodology utilizing fingers.

Connection zones CZ 804 and 1204 are shown on the surface of body 800 and 1200, respectively. Connection zones may have the primary function of providing an input for pitch bending when lever 8041 is assigned as the primary input methodology using hands and fingers on finger 701 or chin rest 1241 is assigned as primary. input methodology using chin, cheek or jaw, on arch 702. Connection zones can offer additional functionality with series assumed input and output modules.

In fig. 21 shows for air 703, body 1700, at CZ 1703, neck 1704 and 1705, the ability to articulate or cant up to ninety degrees (90°) downward toward the user, and/or rotate 2001 for easy customization of a user's choice of neck position 1704 or 1705.

In Figures 8A-8H, 12A-12H and 17A-17D, as I/O necks, necks are 8051, 8052, 8061 and 8062, respectively; 1251,1252,1261 and 1262; 1704 and 1705 assigned as corresponding to connection zones CZ 803 for finger 701, CZ 1203 for arc 702, CZ 1703 for air 703. I/O necks are assigned as primary input methodology utilizing fingers.

When designed and assigned as removable I/O necks, necks 8051, 8052, 8061 and 8062; 1251, 1252, 1261 and 1262; 1704 and 1705 systems or intelligence integrated into the neck that allows in-body systems 800,1200 and 1700 to recognize several parameters of the modules including, but not limited to, left or right-handed assignment, types of conventional instrument emulation, electrification or iWce electrification, illuminated or non-illuminated, types of conventional instrument emulation, types of I/O neck entry system (NIS), first NIS 808,1208 and 1707; other NIS 809,1209 and 1708, programming interface protocol for irm feed/output zones 807,1207, 1706.

When designed and assigned as non-removable I/O necks, necks 8051, 8052, 8061 and 8062; 1251,1252,1261 and 1262; 1704 and 1705 having or not having the same functions, systems and components integrated in necks 8051, 8052, 8061 and 8062; 1251, 1252, 1261 and 1262; 1704 and 1705.

In fig. 10, 14 and 19, the programming interface protocol for third input/output zones 1001, 1401 and 1901 may have dedicated or programmable, fixed or removable inputs or outputs. Many embodiments of functionality, size, number of inputs or outputs, etc. are considered and the third I/O 1001, 1401 and 1901 sections are designed as primary input methodology using fingers.

In fig. 8A-8H, 12A-12H and 17A-17D show other I/O necks, including necks 8051, 8052, 8061 and 8062; 1251,1252,1261 and 1262; and 1704 and 1705. The necks referred to can be assigned and manufactured as attached to body 800, 1200 and 1700 or as a removable module. A connection interface is displayed for a logo, including logo 813,1213 or 1710, or irmmatmg utrmtmg functions including but not limited to programming, left or right-handed assignment, type of conventional instrument emulation, electrification or non-electrification, type of conventional instrument emulation at the end which faces away from body 800, or 1700 and connecting zone CZ one 803,1203 or 1703, in case of a fixed neck or both ends of removable necks, necks 8051, 8052,8061 and 8062; 1251,1252,1261 and 1262; 1704 and 1705. The end that offers the functionality shown in logo 813,1213 or 1703 is the end that is not connected to or should be connected to the first CZ 803,1203 or 1703.

Still referring to the invention in more detail in fig. 7A through 22F, the systems, methodology and techniques for creating music or sounds are unique to the examples of

aspects of the present invention. Finger 701, bow 702, and breather 703 (ie, see Figures 7A-7C) maintain differences and uniqueness in section one for input/output.

In the strings 810 shown in fig. 8A, a "string-based" module is shown for placement in first I/O 801 and assumes various "string configurations". Variations may include variations in number of strings, thickness and spacing, analog or digital activation identification of strings with preferred embodiments from 4 or more strings. Variations may include, but are not limited to, emulation of traditional instruments, including but not limited to mandolins, banjos, guitars, and bass guitars, and emulation based on fmger input of classical stringed instruments such as double bass, cello, harp, or violin.

Touch Pad 811 is a programmable "touch sensitive" pad that can be programmed by the user for different input game modes. Keys 812 show a "piano type" key configuration, and include a traditional "piano key layout" or as shown in keys 812, a finger 701 invention specific "piano key type" key layout.

Strings 810, touchpad 811, keys 812, and other future embodiment modules may have integrated processing or intelligent electronics that interact with first I/O 801 to identify type of input module, type of instruments to be emulated, left-handed or right-handed mode selection, and other future variations considered.

In fig. 12A-12F show string 1210 including a "string module" for placement in first I/O 1201 and various "string configurations" assumed. Variations may include variations in number of strings, thickness and spacing, analog or digital activation identification of strings with preferred embodiments from 4 or more strings. Variations include, but are not limited to, emulation of traditional instruments, including, but not limited to, violin, fiddle, viola, cello, double bass, etc.

Touch sticks 1211 are programmable "touch sensitive" slots that can be programmed by the user for different input game modes. Strings 1210, touch sticks 1211, and other future embodiment modules may have integrated processing or intelligent electronics that interact with first I/O 1201 to identify type of input module, type of instruments to be emulated, left-handed or right-handed mode selection, and other future intended variations.

In fig. 17A-17D, a nozzle 1709 for a blower module is shown for placement in first I/O 1701 that assumes various blower configurations. Variations may include type of wind instrument emulation of traditional instruments, including but not limited to French horn, trumpet, trombone and tuba, bassoon, clarinet, flute, oboe and saxophone, harmonica, etc. Mouthpiece 1709 and other future embodiment modules may have integrated processing or intelligent electronics that interact with the first I/O 1201 to identify the type of input module, type of instruments that can be emulated and other future intended variations.

In fig. 8A-8I have strings 810, touch pad 811 and keys 812, in FIG. 12A-12H strings 1210 and touch rods 1211 and in FIG. 17A-17D, mouthpiece 1709, first input/output section of the invention most closely resembles conventional instruments in its input methodologies and parameters to create sound variations.

Figures 8A-8I, 12A-12H and 17A-17D fingers 810, touch pad 811 and keys 812, strings 1210, touch wands 1211 and mouthpiece 1709 are shown as first I/O inputs used to control input audio parameters including but not limited to , volume, duration, placement variation, speed, pressure, rhythm, strumming-key-pressing-bowing-blowing patterns, pitch bending, vibrato, tremolo, damping, plucking, drumming and buzzing, etc.

The second feed/discharge section of the invention includes (see Figs. 2A-21, 6A-6H and 11A-1 ID), necks including necks 2051, 2052, 2061 and 2062; 6051, 6052, 6061 and 6062; and 1104 and 1105. The methodology for changes to sound parameters in this section is radically different from any conventional or synthetic conventional instrument.

Unlike conventional instruments, the input/output methodology system of the second I/O section of the invention in Figures 7A-7B's finger 701 and bow 702 may be virtually identical. Air 703 in Figure 7C, by virtue of the first insertion zone for air 703 using a nozzle 1709, has the same input/output methodology system as finger 701 and bow 702, but allows the use of both hands in FIG. 17A-17D's necks 1704 and 1705, thus allowing two symmetrical sets of NIS 1707 and 1708 (right and left handed), on necks 1704 and 1705.

The parameters for the methodology system are examples of embodiments and thus other embodiments are intended. The sound or music parameters can be changed by other imimatmgs-/utimting section necks in fig. 8A-81,12A-12H and 17A-17D including neck 8051,8052,8061 and 8062; 8051, 8052, 8061 and 8062; and 1704 and 1705 which also includes first sections NIS 808,1208 and 1707, second NIS 809,1209 and 1708, four VU 807,1207 and 1706 and fig. 10,14 and 19 third I/Os 1001,1401 and 1901.

Parameters may include, but are not limited to, key A to G (including harmonic center or tonic), chord (including major, minor, cross, b, diminished, augmented, slash, fifth, dominant), pitch (including harmonics, frequency ), octave (twelve semitones), scales (including chromatic, wholetone, pentatonic, diminished, diatonic, sign), tones, effects (including accent, sustain, distortion, dynamics, filters, modulation, time-based, reverb, feedback). The partial list of parameters can be performed with variations beyond any conventional instrument based on the user's ability to change virtually all audio parameters in real time as quickly as the correct input sequence can be performed by the user.

In fig. 8A-81,12A-12H and 17A-17D shows a system for changing the parameter(s) outlined earlier in the second irmmatmgsVutfeed section, including first NIS 808,1208 and 1707 and second NIS 809,1209 and 1708. The drawings show an example of an embodiment of twenty-one input/output subdivisions. These subdivisions are fully programmable by the user.

However, an example of a version program is the first seven subdivisions (those closest to logo 814,1213 and 1711) which are primary (tonic, the key of the instrument's tuning) or secondary inputs (key or major chord of the sound or music being played) key A to G.

The next two input/output subdivisions in connection with the third I/O

1001,1401 and 1901, is programmable for variations including, but not limited to, chord, pitch and octave. The next twelve input/output subdivisions are programmed for single-note playing in the selected key, chromatic scales, or twelve octave semitones.

In fig. 7E, a neck 705 is shown which is a minimum example of an embodiment. Twelve input/output subdivisions are shown in neck 705. Twelve I/O subdivisions can provide a user with all the functionality of the twenty-one I/O subdivisions, in conjunction with three I/O 1001, 1401, and 1901 inputs, although fewer I/O subdivisions will reduce variations and most likely speed and mastery due to changes. Embodiments with less than twelve input/output subdivisions are contemplated, but will have limitations in terms of variations and playability of inputs and outputs.

In fig. 7D, a pedal 704 is shown, which is the third input/output section of the invention. The example embodiment of pedal 704 shows three separate programmable input/output switches which are shown in more detail in FIG. 22 A as I/O switches 2201. The third input/output section may control any of the parameters of the first and second input/output sections, but adds one more user input (a foot or feet) to the potential simultaneous user input variations .

The invention and its three input/output zones enable the user to never play an incorrect musical sound or variation. The user achieves near perfect timbre or the user can choose to select false timbres for musical variations.

For example, if the user selects a C chord, it will always be a perfect C chord regardless of the time the user has dedicated to the invention, the location within the C chord section, the force applied, the duration, or the number of times the user has played a C chord. If the user switches from a C chord to an Am7 and the input sequence is correct, it will also be a perfect Am7 chord. If the user moves to the single note section, the twelve variations of the chromatic scale will be perfectly based on the key that the user is currently playing. The user may not like the sequence or variations selected, but with the examples of aspects of the present invention, each variation will be perfect tonally and musically.

In fig. 7A-7D and 7F, finger 701, bow 702, air 703, pedal 704 and xbow bow 706 are shown, which are based on digital electronics, with an operating system and supporting software. The invention is intended for both digital and analog output of the invention to other devices and corresponding interconnections, including, but not limited to, amplifiers, sound cards, digital and analog recording equipment, computers, computer keyboards, Internet protocols, Bluetooth or other wireless protocols, PD A- are, smartphones, other music protocol devices (such as MTDI enabled devices), USB devices, Firewire, headphones, invention specific plug-in speaker output modules, SSD storage devices and other finger 701, bow 702, air 703 and pedal 704 and xbow 706 .

In more detail, still referring to the invention of finger 701, bow 702, air 703, pedal 704 and xbow 706 shown in fig. 7A-22F the dimensions, shapes, materials and variations are almost endless. The invention and the inventors intended that level of variation.

Although the foregoing written description of the origin enables one skilled in the art to make and use what is currently believed to be the best mode thereof, one skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that there are variations, combinations and equivalents of the particular embodiment, method and the examples herein. The invention shall therefore not be limited by the above example of embodiment, method and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and idea of the invention.

Briefly, the exemplary aspects of the present invention may provide an electronic hybrid or fully digital musical instrument and system for producing, altering and terminating keys, tones, chords, scales, pitches, octaves and sound variations.

With its unique and novel features, the present invention provides a musical device that can enable musicians and composers to master the playing of music in a much shorter time than with conventional musical instruments.

While the invention is described in terms of one or more embodiments, the person skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced with modification within the scope and idea of the accompanying claims. In particular, the person skilled in the art will understand that the drawings herein are meant as illustrations, and the design of the invention's assembly is not limited to what is described herein, but can be changed within the scope and idea of the present invention.

Furthermore, the applicant's intention is to include equivalents of all claim elements, and no change to any claim present in the application shall be construed as a waiver of any interest in or right to an equivalent of any element or feature of the amended claim.

Claims (25)

1. A music device for creating music, comprising: a first input portion for generating a first signal based on a user input; a music signal generator for generating a music signal based on the first signal; and a second input portion for generating a second signal based on a user input, wherein the second signal controls the music signal generator, and the second input portion comprises a plurality of first buttons corresponding to an area comprising at least one of a key, a note, and a chord, and a plurality of other buttons corresponding to at least one of a tone and a tone scale within the range. 2. The music device according to claim 1, wherein the second input part further comprises: a plurality of third buttons for defining a variation for the range or musical variables of the plurality of first buttons; and a plurality of fourth buttons comprising a programmable function to vary at least one of chord, pitch and octave or other frequency, tonal or musical variables. 3. The music device according to claim 1, wherein the second input part comprises an auditory setting selector, for selecting an auditory function setting for the second input part, from among a plurality of auditory function settings, wherein the auditory function setting selector comprises a selector for selecting at least one of an array of musical parameters or variables. 4. The music device according to claim 1, further comprising: a selector for selecting the music signal to correspond to one of a string instrument, woodwind instrument, brass instrument and keyboard instrument. 5. The music device according to claim 1, further comprising: a body, where the music signal generator is formed in the body. 6. The music device according to claim 5, further comprising: an output part for outputting the music signal, wherein the output part comprises a sound generator for generating a sound corresponding to one of a string instrument, woodwind instrument, brass instrument and keyboard instrument, based on the music signal. 7. The musical device of claim 5, further comprising: a programmable, electrifiable neck connected to the body, wherein the body further comprises a symmetrical receiver portion for receiving the neck, and the neck includes a connector for removably connecting the neck to the receiver portion and based on which receiving portion of the body the neck is attached to, the user can select primary left- or right-handed operation. 8. The musical device according to claim 7, wherein the neck is rotatably connected to the body. 9. The musical device according to claim 7, in which the second input part is formed on at least one of the body and the neck. 10. The music device according to claim 7, in which the first input part is formed on the body and the second input part is formed on the neck. 11. The music device according to claim 10, wherein the body further comprises a symmetrical receiving part for receiving the first input part, and the first input part comprises a connection for removably connecting the first input part with the receiving part, and based on which receiving part of the body the first input part is attached to, the user can select primary left- or right-handed operation, and wherein the first input part comprises at least one of: a first input module comprising a structural element corresponding to one of a string instrument, woodwind instrument, brass instrument and keyboard instrument; and a first touch-sensitive surface, showing a structural element corresponding to one of a string instrument, woodwind instrument, brass instrument and keyboard instrument. 12. The musical device according to claim 11, wherein the first input module comprises an input module for a stringed instrument comprising: a plurality of strings; a sensor to sense a vibration or an analog or digital pickup to sense a vibration in the plurality of strings and generate an electrical current representative of the vibration; and a processing circuit for processing the current current of the first input signal. 13. The musical device according to claim 11, wherein the first input module comprises an input module for a brass instrument comprising: a type of mouthpiece for a brass instrument; a transducer, strain gauge or other sensing component for sensing a pressure in the nozzle and generating an electrical current representative of the pressure; and a processing circuit for processing the current current of the first input signal. 14. The music device according to claim 11, wherein the first input module comprises a woodwind instrument input module comprising: a woodwind instrument mouthpiece; a transducer, strain gauge or other sensing component for sensing a pressure in the nozzle and generating an electrical current representative of the pressure; and a processing circuit for processing the current current of the first input signal. 15. The music device according to claim 11, wherein the first input module comprises an input module for a keyboard instrument comprising: a keyboard comprising a plurality of keys; a sensor for sensing a pressure applied to a tangent of the plurality of tangents, and generating an electric current representative of the pressure; and a processing circuit for processing the current current of the first input signal. 16. The musical device of claim 11, wherein the first touch-sensitive surface corresponds to a plurality of strings on a string instrument, a plurality of clappers on a woodwind instrument, a plurality of valves on a brass instrument, and a plurality of keys on a keyboard instrument or is fully programmable to create an entirely new musical or tonal parameter control instrument or musical or tonal input/output system. 17. The music device according to claim 7, further comprising: a receiver part formed in one of the body and the neck; and an electronic or non-electronic logo associated with the receiver portion, and comprising a connector for removably connecting the electronic logo to the receiver portion. 18. Musical device for making music, comprising: a body; a first input portion formed on the body, for generating a first signal based on a user input; a music signal generator formed in the body, for generating a music signal based on the first signal; a neck connected to the body; a second input portion for generating a second signal based on a user input, wherein the second signal controls the music signal generator, and the second input portion comprises a plurality of first buttons corresponding to an area comprising at least one of a key, a note, and a chord, and a a plurality of other buttons corresponding to at least one of a tone and a tone scale within the range; and an output part for outputting the music signal. 19. System for creating music, comprising: a device for generating a programming signal; and a music device programmable by the programming signal to create music, comprising: a first input part for generating a first signal based on a user input; a music signal generator for generating a music signal based on the first signal; and a second input portion for generating a second signal based on a user input, wherein the second signal controls the music signal generator, and the second input portion comprises a plurality of first buttons corresponding to an area comprising at least one of a key, a note, and a chord, and a plurality of other buttons corresponding to at least one of a tone and a tone scale within the range. 20. The system according to claim 19, further comprising: a display device that shows a musical notation corresponding to at least one of the plurality of first buttons and the plurality of second buttons or other parameters, wherein the display device comprises a head-up display device comprising a wired or wireless transceiver which is connected to the music device. 21. The system according to claim 19, further comprising: a foot pedal module, which is in communication with the music device's music signal generator and comprises an input part which receives a user input and controls the music signal generator with the second signal based on the user input. 22. A method of creating music, comprising: generating a first signal with a first input portion based on a user input; generating a music signal with a music signal generator based on the first signal; and generating a second signal with a second input portion based on a user input, wherein the second signal controls the music signal generator, and the second input portion comprises a plurality of first buttons corresponding to an area comprising at least one of a key, a note, and a chord, and a plurality of other buttons corresponding to at least one of a tone and a tone scale within the range. 23. User selectable primarily left or right handed operable neck, comprehensive a connecting part for connecting with the body of the music device according to claim 5. 24. User-selectable primarily left- or right-handed operable input module, comprising: a connection part for connecting with the body of the music device according to claim 5. 25. Electronic logo, comprising: a connection and a compatibility verifiable part, for connecting to the neck of the music device according to claim 6.