RU2600712C1 - Adjustable and folding shoulder rest for violin or alto - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: acoustics.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to the shoulder rests for violins and altos. Adjustable folding shoulder rest (10) for violin and altos comprises a base adjacent to the shoulder (20), characterised by presence of the first end (40) and the second end (50). Base includes side adjacent to the shoulder (70) and facing the tool side (60). First folding gripper (80) of fork-shape is located at the first end (40) and is intended for gripping violin or alto, wherein said gripper (80) is designed to be folded from unfolded to folded position. Second folding gripper (90) of fork-shape is located at the second end (50) of the shoulder rest base and is intended for gripping violin or alto, wherein said gripper can be folded from unfolded to folded position. First moving end element (100) to receive the rod with thread serves as a support for the first grip (80). First moving end element (100) is configured to move between extended position and retracted position. First moving end element (100) is equipped with a curved channel, in which the rod turns when the first gripper (80) transmits from unfolded to folded position and back. First moving end element (100) is configured to move in the first groove facing the tool side (60) of the base (20) of the shoulder rest to pull out or to remove the first gripper (80). Second moving end element (110) serves as a support for the second gripper (90). Second moving end element (110) is configured to move between extended position and retracted position. Second moving end element (110) is also equipped with a curved channel, in which the rod (96) turns when the second gripper (90) transmits from unfolded to folded position and back. Second moving end element (110) is configured to move in the second slot on the side facing the tool side (60) of the base (20) of the shoulder rest to pull out or to remove the second gripper (90). Moving end element (100) comprises the first ledge, the shape of which makes it possible to enter in one of the first set of holes located in the first slot. Second moving end element (110) comprises the second ledge, the shape of which makes it possible to enter in one of the second set of holes located in the second slot.

EFFECT: ease of adjustment and folding of the shoulder rest is provided.

11 cl, 46 dwg

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to bridges for violins and violas.

State of the art

A bridge is an auxiliary device that can be attached to a violin or viola. Typically, the bridge is characterized by the presence of fork grips or “legs” for easily removable fastening of the bridge on the sides of the back of the violin or viola. The bridge helps to position the instrument at a convenient height for the musician. The bridge may have a profile that generally coincides with the natural curves of the shoulder and collarbone of a person.

To fit instruments of different sizes to the structure of the musician’s body and their preferred position, some bridges can be adjusted in height and the distance between the fork clamp elements.

Some examples of adjustable bridges are described in US Pat. No. 5,270,474 (Kuhn) under the name "Violin or the like shoulder rest", in US Patent No. 5,419,226 (Kuhn) under the name "Violin Bridge" (" Violin shoulder rest "), in US patent No. 5,567,893 (Kun) under the name" Shoulder rest for violin or like instrument ", in US patent No. 6,031,163 (Callum and others) under the name "Adjustable shoulder rest for violins or the like" and in US patent No. 7,265,284 (Muir et al.) under the name "Violin and other nye Instruments »(" Violin or the like instrument "), the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

For compactness, which saves space during storage, some bridges are made folding (or collapsible), such as, for example, the bridge described in US Pat. No. 5,731,531 (Kun) under the name “Shoulder rest bridge for violin or other instrument” for violin or like instrument "), the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The base (or stand) of the bridge can be made of different materials, such as polymers, composite materials, metal or wood. US Pat. No. 6,291,750 (Farha), entitled “Bridge for a violin or viola shoulder rest”, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, describes a multi-layer base of wood veneer.

Other ergonomic improvements to the bridge are described in US Pat. No. 7,385,124 (Clemente), entitled "Clamping member for a violin shoulder rest", the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Despite the fact that adjustable and folding bridges are well known in the art, further improvements to the bridges in terms of their adjustability and ergonomics are still in high demand.

Disclosure of invention

The present invention provides a new adjustable folding bridge. This bridge contains two autonomous reed regulating mechanisms providing independent adjustment, i.e. folding or retracting forks. On the side adjacent to the shoulder, the bridge is provided with a foam pillow with holes. Fork hooks of the bridge are mounted rotatably on drums with movable end elements. Other aspects and features of the present invention are described in detail below and are illustrated by the accompanying drawings.

Accordingly, one of the innovative aspects of the present invention is an adjustable and folding bridge for violins or violas. This bridge includes a base adjacent to the shoulder with a first end and a second end; however, the base is also characterized by the presence of a side adjacent to the shoulder and a side adjacent to the tool. The bridge contains a first folding grip (or fork) of a fork-shaped shape located at the first end of the base of the bridge and designed to capture a violin or viola; wherein said grip can be folded from the deployed position to the folded position. The bridge also contains a second folding grip (or fork) of a fork-shaped shape located on the second end of the base of the bridge and designed to capture a violin or viola; wherein said grip can also be folded from the deployed position to the folded position. The bridge includes a first movable end element for receiving a threaded rod, which serves as a support for the first capture; wherein the first movable end element is movable between the extended position and the retracted position; however, the first movable end element is also provided with a curved channel in which the rod rotates when the first fork engages from the deployed position to the folded position and vice versa; wherein the first movable end element is movable in the first groove on the side of the base of the bridge facing the tool to extend or retract the first fork hook. The bridge also contains a second movable end element, which serves as a support for the second capture; wherein the second movable end element is movable between the extended position and the retracted position; wherein the second movable end element is also provided with a curved channel in which the rod is rotated when the second fork hook moves from the deployed position to the folded position and vice versa; the second movable end element is movable in the second groove on the side of the bridge base facing the tool to extend or retract the second fork hook. The first movable end element contains a first protrusion, the shape of which allows it to enter one of the first set of holes located in the first groove, and the second movable end element contains a second protrusion, the shape of which allows it to enter one of the second many holes located in the second groove .

Another innovative aspect of the present invention is a bridge for stringed bow instruments; wherein said bridge comprises a base adjacent to the shoulder, characterized by the presence of a side adjacent to the shoulder and a side facing the tool; a first folding fork for securing the bridge to the tool, which can be folded from the deployed position to the folded position; and a second folding fork for securing the bridge to the tool, which can be folded from the deployed position to the folded position. The bridge includes a first movable end element for receiving a threaded rod, which serves as a support for the first capture; wherein the first movable end element is movable between the retracted position and the deployed free-bearing position; however, the first movable end element is also provided with a curved channel in which the rod rotates when the first fork engages from the deployed position to the folded position and vice versa; wherein the first movable end element is movable in the first groove on the side of the base of the bridge facing the tool to extend or retract the first fork hook. The bridge also contains a second movable end element, which serves as a support for the second capture; wherein the second movable end element is arranged to move between the retracted position and the deployed free-bearing position; wherein the second movable end element is also provided with a curved channel in which the rod is rotated when the second fork hook moves from the deployed position to the folded position and vice versa; the second movable end element is movable in the second groove on the side of the bridge base facing the tool to extend or retract the second fork hook. The first movable end element contains a first protrusion, the shape of which allows it to enter into one of the first set of holes located in the first groove. The second movable end element contains a second protrusion, the shape of which allows it to enter one of the second set of holes located in the second groove.

Another innovative aspect of the present invention is a bridge for violins or violas; wherein the bridge comprises a base adjacent to the shoulder with a first end and a second end, which has a side adjacent to the shoulder and a side facing the tool; the first folding fork attached to the violin or viola and folding from the deployed position to the folded position; and a second folding fork attached to the violin or viola and folding from the deployed position to the folded position. The bridge includes a first movable end element for receiving a threaded rod, which serves as a support for the first fork hook; wherein the first movable end element is movable between the retracted position and the deployed position; however, the first movable end element is also provided with a curved channel in which the rod rotates when the first fork engages from the deployed position to the folded position and vice versa; wherein the first movable end element is movable in the first groove on the side of the base of the bridge facing the tool to extend or retract the first fork hook. The bridge also contains a second movable end element, which serves as a support for the second capture; wherein the second movable end element is movable between the retracted position and the deployed position; wherein the second movable end element is also provided with a curved channel in which the rod is rotated when the second fork hook moves from the deployed position to the folded position and vice versa; the second movable end element is movable in the second groove on the side of the bridge base facing the tool to extend or retract the forks. The bridge also contains a foam pillow located on the side adjacent to the shoulder. The foam cushion may optionally comprise a plurality of holes.

Another innovative aspect of the present invention is a bridge for violins or violas; wherein the bridge comprises a base adjacent to the shoulder with a first end and a second end, which has a side adjacent to the shoulder and a side facing the tool; the first folding fork attached to the violin or viola and folding from the deployed position to the folded position; and a second folding fork attached to the violin or viola and folding from the deployed position to the folded position. The specified bridge contains a first movable end element for receiving a threaded rod, which serves as a support for the first fork hook; wherein the first movable end element is movable between the retracted position and the deployed position; however, the first movable end element is also provided with a curved channel in which the rod rotates when the first fork engages from the deployed position to the folded position and vice versa; wherein the first movable end element is movable in the first groove on the side of the base of the bridge facing the tool to extend or retract the first fork hook. The specified bridge contains a first rotary drum, made with the possibility of rotation inside the first movable end element. The specified bridge also contains a second movable end element, which serves as a support for the second fork hook; wherein the second movable end element is movable between the retracted position and the deployed position; wherein the second movable end element is also provided with a curved channel in which the rod is rotated when the second fork hook moves from the deployed position to the folded position and vice versa; the second movable end element is movable in the first groove on the side of the bridge base facing the tool to extend or retract the forks. The specified bridge also contains a second rotary drum, made with the possibility of a half-turn inside the second movable end element.

A brief disclosure of the present invention is presented in order to focus on some of the most important innovative aspects, but it is not an exhaustive or limiting definition of all other innovative aspects of the claimed invention. The detailed description and drawings may contain other innovative aspects of the present invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Other features and advantages of the presented technology will become clear after reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, where:

In FIG. 1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a bridge in a retracted position;

In FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a bridge in an extended position;

In FIG. 3 is another isometric view of the bridge in the retracted position;

In FIG. 4 is another isometric view of a bridge in an extended position;

In FIG. 5 shows a top view of the bridge in the retracted position;

In FIG. 6 shows a top view of a bridge in an extended position;

In FIG. 7 shows a side view of the bridge in the retracted position;

In FIG. 8 shows a side view of the bridge in an extended position;

In FIG. 9 shows an end view of the bridge in the retracted position;

In FIG. 10 shows a view from the other end of the bridge in an extended position;

In FIG. 11 shows a bottom view of the bridge in a retracted position;

In FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the bridge in an extended position;

In FIG. 13 is an isometric view of a bridge in a retracted position, on which a pillow adjacent to a shoulder is facing up;

In FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a bridge in an extended position;

In FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a bridge in a folded position;

In FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a bridge in a folded position, with the side adjacent to the tool facing up;

In FIG. 17 is an isometric view of a bridge in a folded position;

In FIG. 18 shows a general view (perspective view) of a bridge;

In FIG. 19 is an isometric view of a base;

In FIG. 20 is an isometric view of the bottom side of the base;

In FIG. 21 is an isometric view of a foam pillow with punching holes;

In FIG. 22 is a side cross-sectional view of an end member adjacent to a shoulder;

In FIG. 23 is a side cross-sectional view of a reed adjusting mechanism for extending or retracting a movable end member adjacent to a shoulder with its fork;

In FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional side view of an end member adjacent to the clavicle;

In FIG. 25 is a side cross-sectional view of a reed adjusting mechanism for extending or retracting a movable end member adjacent to the collarbone with its forks;

In FIG. 26 is a side cross-sectional view of a movable end member of a bridge;

In FIG. 27 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a movable end member of a bridge, showing a rod attached to a hidden rotary drum;

In FIG. 28 is a side cross-sectional view of a movable end member adjacent to the clavicle;

In FIG. 29 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of an end member adjacent to the collarbone, which shows a shaft mounted on a hidden rotary drum;

In FIG. 30 is an isometric view of a movable end member adjacent to a shoulder;

In FIG. 31 is an isometric view of the lower side of the movable end member adjacent to the shoulder;

In FIG. 32 is an isometric view of the pressure bar of an end member adjacent to the shoulder from the inside;

In FIG. 33 is an isometric view of the pressure bar of an end member adjacent to the shoulder from the front side;

In FIG. 34 is an isometric view of a movable end member adjacent to the clavicle;

In FIG. 35 is an isometric view of the lower side of the movable end member adjacent to the clavicle;

In FIG. 36 is an isometric view of the pressure bar of the end member adjacent to the clavicle from the inside;

In FIG. 37 is an isometric view of the pressure bar of the end member adjacent to the clavicle from the front side;

In FIG. 38 is an isometric view of a threaded fork drum;

In FIG. 39 is another isometric view of a threaded fork drum;

In FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional view of a threaded fork drum;

In FIG. 41 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a bridge equipped with a thumb screw;

In FIG. 42 is a plan view of the bridge of FIG. 41;

In FIG. 43 is a side view of the bridge of FIG. 41;

In FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the bridge of FIG. 41;

In FIG. 45 is a side cross-sectional view of an end of a bridge adjacent to a shoulder with an adjustment mechanism by means of a thumb screw; and

In FIG. 46 is a side cross-sectional view of an end of a bridge adjacent to the collarbone with an adjustment mechanism by means of a thumb screw.

It should be noted that in all the drawings, the same elements are denoted by the same reference numbers.

The implementation of the invention

In FIG. 1 illustrates an adjustable folding bridge for violins or violas according to one embodiment of the present invention. This bridge, which is indicated at 10, includes a base 20 adjacent to the shoulder and a foam pad 30. The base (stand) 20 comprises a first end 40 and a second end 50. The base (stand) 20 is characterized by the presence of the side 60 facing the tool and the side 70 adjacent to the shoulder. The first folding claw 80 (or fork) is fork-shaped, provided with a pair of teeth, protrusions or fingers 82, located at the first end of the base of the bridge and is designed to capture a violin or viola. The fork hook is provided with a hole 84, into which a threaded rod should enter. The grip (or fork) can be folded from the deployed position to the folded position. The second folding grip 90 (or fork) of a fork-shaped shape, equipped with a pair of teeth, protrusions or fingers 92, is located on the second end of the base (stand) of the bridge and is also designed to capture a violin or viola. The second fork 90 is provided with a hole 94, into which a threaded rod 96 must enter. The second grip (second fork) can also be folded from the deployed position to the folded position.

The bridge 10 shown in FIG. 1 can be adjusted to increase or decrease the distance between the forks 80 and 90. The bridge 10 contains a pair of adjusting mechanisms for adjusting the distance between the forks. Each adjusting mechanism of the bridge of FIG. 1 comprises a movable end element 100 and 110, each of which comprises an adjustable slider 102 and 112, which is activated by raising the reeds 104 and 114. The adjustment mechanism allows the movable end elements (end element 100 adjacent to the shoulder, and end element 110 adjacent to clavicle) to move freely within the groove relative to the base 20. In this way, the extension or retraction of the end elements 100 and 110 is ensured. In FIG. 1, end elements 100 and 110 are shown in the fully retracted position. In FIG. 2, end elements 100 and 110 are shown in a partially extended position. It can also be said that in a partially extended or retracted position, the end elements 100 and 110 are free-hanging, as shown in FIG. 2. The movable end elements 100 and 110 are characterized by the presence of hidden drums 106 and 116, which serve as a rotary support for fork hooks, which will be described in more detail below.

In FIG. 2 also shows movable end elements freely moving in corresponding grooves. On the underside of the reed adjustable slider 102 there is a protrusion, the shape of which allows it to enter one of the holes 24 of the first set, i.e. transverse grooves made in the groove 28.

In FIG. 3 and 4 show (in a different perspective) the bridge 10, respectively, both in the retracted and in the extended position. In the context of the present application, the first end 40 is also referred to as the “end adjacent to the shoulder”, and the second end 50 is also referred to as the “end adjacent to the clavicle”. The end adjoining the shoulder should not be confused with the side adjoining the shoulder 70. The side adjoining the shoulder contacts the musician’s shoulder, i.e. the musician rests on the side adjacent to the shoulder, resulting in a bridge. The ends adjacent to the shoulder and collarbone belong to the movable end elements 100 and 110 (which are also called "movable support elements").

As shown in FIG. 1-6, the base (stand) 20 is asymmetric. Seen from above, as shown in FIG. 5 and 6, then the base bends sideways, i.e. one way; while its width increases from the end adjacent to the clavicle to the end adjacent to the shoulder, not counting the fillet on the end adjacent to the shoulder. Similarly, when viewed from above (Fig. 6), you can see that the grooves 28 or the sliding channels are located at a certain angle to each other (i.e. they are not parallel and not on the same axis). Accordingly, the reed adjustable sliders 102 and 112 are not parallel to each other and not on the same axis, as shown in FIG. 5.

As shown in FIG. 7-8, the end member 100 adjacent to the shoulder is shorter in height than the end member 110 adjacent to the clavicle. Seen from the side, as shown in FIG. 7 and 8, the base 20 bends upward from the end adjacent to the clavicle in the direction of the end adjacent to the shoulder. The end adjacent to the shoulder is curved, and the end adjacent to the clavicle is concave, as shown in FIG. 7 and 8. The end element adjacent to the shoulder is made curved so as to correspond to the bend of the curved end adjacent to the shoulder. The end element adjacent to the clavicle is made concave so as to correspond to the bend of the concave end adjacent to the clavicle. In particular, the first groove at the end adjacent to the shoulder is curved, while the second groove at the end adjacent to the clavicle is concave. The sliding movement of the end element adjacent to the shoulder repeats the bending of the curved channel. The sliding movement of the end element adjacent to the clavicle repeats the bending of the concave channel. Seen from the side, as shown in FIG. 7 and 8, it can be seen that these channels are located at a certain angle to each other (i.e., they are not parallel and not on the same axis).

In FIG. 7 and 8 also show that the forks 80 and 90 are preloaded so that they can grab the violin or viola with a given compressive or gripping force. The value of the preload sets the angle of inclination of the fork hooks. The angle of the forks changes (ie, “opens”) when the specified hook is attached to the violin or viola. In other words, when securing to the tool, the angle of the fork hooks will exceed the angle of the hooks in an unsecured position. This angle of inclination varies as you extend or retract the forks from the base of the bridge.

Since the tongue-shaped sliders slip into the cut-out grooves, these sliders are flush with the base 20, as can be seen in FIG. 7 and 8. In other words, the upper curved surfaces of the sliders of each of the end elements 100 and 110 are at the same level with the base 20, which improves the appearance of the product.

In FIG. 9 and 10 also show how the base 10 bends up and to the left from the end adjacent to the clavicle to the end adjacent to the shoulder.

In an embodiment of the present invention, which is illustrated in FIG. 11-15, the bridge 10 also includes a foam pad 30 attached to the side of the base (stand) facing the tool, providing elasticity to the bridge.

As shown in FIG. 11-15, 18 and 21, the foam pillow 30 contains many holes 32. The holes 32 can be stamped or made using a different technology. The foam pillow with holes has several advantages. The presence of these holes helps to reduce the weight of the foam cushion. These holes also provide increased traction to the shoulder, preventing the bridge from slipping off the shoulder. In other words, these holes provide a better grip. In addition, the holes in the foam cushion enhance the appearance of the bridge. The pillow may be made of NBS, neoprene (polychloroprene) or other equivalent synthetic resins, sponges or foamed materials. These holes may be elongated, as shown in the figures. These holes can also be elongated and curved; while their curvature increases from the ends to the middle. Holes of other shapes and sizes may be provided.

As mentioned above, the bridge is both adjustable and folding device. In FIG. 11 shows a bridge with forks 80 and 90, retracted and folded in an unfolded position to be secured to a violin or viola, whereas in FIG. 12 shows the extended or freely hanging fork hooks 80 and 90. The fork hooks are individually adjusted and folded (or unfolded). In FIG. 13 and 14 are isometric images of a bridge in a retracted and extended position. Fork hooks can be folded for later storage or transport. In FIG. 15-17 depict forked hooks when folded.

In this illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the grippers 80 and 90 of the fork shape (or fork hooks) are asymmetrical. In this embodiment of the claimed invention, the fork hooks are also rotatable. In the illustrated embodiment, the fork hooks are screwed onto the threaded rods 86 and 96 (FIG. 18), which allows the fork hooks to be raised and lowered, as well as the fork hooks to be rotated relative to the base. Fork hooks can also fold or unfold (i.e., close or open).

We repeat that the bridge 10 also includes a first movable end element, which includes a threaded rod that serves as a support for the first grip; wherein the first movable end element is moved between the retracted position and the extended position; however, the first movable end element is also characterized by the presence of a curved channel or groove in which the rod rotates when the gripper moves from the deployed position to the folded position and vice versa. The first movable end element is movable in the first groove on the side of the bridge base facing the tool to extend or retract the first grip relative to the base. Similarly, the bridge 10 also includes a second movable end member supporting the second grip; wherein the second movable end element moves between the retracted position and the extended position; the second movable end element is characterized by the presence of a curved channel or groove in which the rod rotates when the gripper moves from the deployed position to the folded position and vice versa; the second movable end element is moved in the second groove on the side of the bridge base facing the tool to extend or retract the second grip relative to the base.

In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, there is no locking mechanism for securing the forks in the folded or unfolded position. However, in other embodiments of the claimed invention, such a locking mechanism may be provided that locks the forks in the folded or unfolded position. As an alternative to holding the hooks in the desired position, stepwise positioning of the hooks or their friction fit may be provided.

Thus, the bridge is regulated by extending or retracting the forks. Fork hooks are also rotatable, as described above, which improves adjustability. In the extended position, the movable end elements and the corresponding fork hooks protrude cantilever. In the fully extended (cantilever) position, there is some lateral and / or torsion play or tolerance, which further increases the degree of adjustability. In other words, in the extended (cantilever) position, the movable end elements can be twisted to fit the tool, and / or they can be twisted when a torque is applied to the attached bridge.

The first movable end element contains a first protrusion, the shape of which allows it to enter one of the holes of the first set, which are located in the first groove. Similarly, the second movable end element comprises a second protrusion, the shape of which allows it to enter one of the holes of the second set, which are located in the second groove.

In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the first plurality of holes comprises transverse grooves located substantially at right angles to the axis of sliding of the first support member within the first groove, and the second plurality of holes comprises transverse grooves located substantially at right angles to the axis of sliding of the first support member within the second groove; the protrusion is a transverse rib, the shape of which allows it to enter one of the transverse grooves. These transverse grooves are located only on the inwardly directed half of each groove of the illustrated embodiment of the claimed invention.

In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, each of the movable end members — the first and second — comprises a reed releasing member that bends as it exits the groove to expel the protrusion from the opening; wherein the reed release member is resiliently biased to return to an unbent position in the groove. In the illustrated embodiment, the reed release member comprises an elongated tongue ending in a curved rounded tip that bends away from the groove. The thickness of this tongue is less than the thickness of the movable end element, and its width is also less than the width of the movable end element.

In FIG. 18 shows a General view (perspective image) of the main components of the bridge 10, namely: the base (stand) 20; pillows 30; fork hooks 80 and 90; movable end elements 100 and 110; drums 106 and 116; and holding pads 120 and 130. In FIG. 19 is an isometric view of the base (stand) 20. For the assembly of the bridge, the pillow 30 is attached to the base 20. The rods of the fork hooks are attached to the drums 106 and 116, hidden in the holes of the end elements 100 and 110, and made to rotate within these holes. The retaining pads 120 and 130 pop into place, holding the drums inside the openings of the movable end members.

The base (or base) 20 may be characterized by a chamfer 21 extending along the sides of the base, as shown in FIG. 19. The bevelled base facilitates holding the base and managing it, and also improves the appearance of the base itself. At the base 20, a first groove 28 is made, which comprises a plurality of holes, for example, transverse grooves 24. These holes or grooves may be located on the front (inner) half of the groove. On the sides of the groove is a pair of guide edges or grooves 26 holding the tongue-shaped slider.

In FIG. 20 is an isometric view of the lower part of the base 20 of the bridge. The specified lower part may be characterized by the presence of an edge or rim 22 extending along the perimeter of the base, into which a pillow may partially enter.

In FIG. 21 is an isometric view of foam pad 30. As can be seen, the cushion is provided with a plurality of holes 32. The foam cushion illustrated in FIG. 21 is characterized by such a profile or shape that matches the shape of the base. The figure also shows that the pillow has the same thickness, although this condition is not necessary for other embodiments of the present invention. The pillow is one piece of foam in FIG. 21, although in other embodiments of the claimed invention it may consist of two or more parts.

In FIG. 22-40, structural elements of a movable end member adjacent to the shoulder and a movable end member adjacent to the clavicle are shown.

In FIG. 22, an end 40 adjacent to the shoulder is shown. As shown in this figure, the fork 80 is mounted on its threaded rod 86. This allows raising and lowering the fork 80 with respect to the base 20, as well as turning the specified catch relative to the base. The rod is screwed into a ring or hole in the rotary drum with the corresponding internal thread. As shown in the figure, the first movable end element (adjacent to the shoulder end element) 100 comprises a cylindrical drum-shaped element. In FIG. 23 shows a reed mechanism for adjusting a movable end member adjacent to a shoulder. Notice that the slip channel at the shoulder end 40 is curved, as shown in FIG. 22. In FIG. 22 and 23, it can be seen that the transverse grooves 24 can taper or expand onto a cone so that a protrusion 105 or tooth of a similar shape can enter them. Six grooves 24 are shown here, although this number may vary in different embodiments of the present invention. Accordingly, the protrusion can occupy one of six positions, providing six different degrees of linear elongation. In FIG. 23, an arcuate or curved tongue 104 is illustrated, although tongues of a different shape or profile may be provided. This figure also shows a cavity 107 providing a clearance sufficient to allow an index or thumb to be inserted into it to raise the tongue 104.

In FIG. 24 shows the end 50 adjacent to the clavicle, which provides a concave sliding channel for the tongue-shaped slider 112. FIG. 25 shows a reed control mechanism of a movable end member 110 adjacent to the clavicle. The tongue 114 rises or extends to move the protrusion from one groove 24 to another. A front cavity 117 is provided to provide access to the tongue 114 with the index finger or thumb. Moving the end member 110 adjacent to the clavicle 110 shown in FIG. 24 leads to the movement of the fork hook 90 together with its fingers or teeth 92. The fork hook 90 is supported by a threaded rod 96 and rotates with the drum, which will be described in more detail below.

In FIG. 26 shows a movable end member 100 adjacent to a shoulder, which includes an opening B for receiving and enclosing a drum therein. Due to the narrowing or thinning of the tongue-shaped slider in the area immediately in front of the protrusion, a gap G is provided, which enhances the bending in place. Below opening B, a cavity C is provided for accommodating the retaining pad. In FIG. 27 is an enlarged side view of the movable end member 100 adjacent to the shoulder, which shows a rod 86 attached to the movable hidden drum 106. The retaining pad 120 snaps into place in the cavity located at the bottom of the end member 100 to hold the drum 106 in place .

In FIG. 28 is a side view of the movable end member 110 adjacent to the collarbone, which is characterized by the presence of a hole B, cavity C and gap G, which are identical to the similar elements described above. In FIG. 29 is an enlarged side view of the movable end member 110 adjacent to the collarbone, which shows the pin 96 attached to the movable hidden drum 116. The retaining pad 130 snaps into place in the cavity C, holding the drum in the hole B of the movable element 110 adjacent to the clavicle.

In FIG. 30 shows a movable end member 100 adjacent to a shoulder. The movable end member 100 adjacent to the shoulder is provided with a tongue 104 and a rounded or semicircular straight end 148 defining a finger space 107 that provides access to the tongue 104. The tongue is integral with the tongue-shaped adjustable slider 102; however, along the lateral line, it is partially separated from the slider by two narrow grooves or channels 144 and 146. A collar 142 extends along all edges of the end element, moving within the grooves 26 of the groove 28 in the base 20, as shown in FIG. 19. The rounded face 140 of each shoulder 142 facilitates insertion into the grooves. As shown in FIG. 30, the end member 100 is characterized by a rotational cavity 149 defining an opening B for receiving and enclosing a drum 106 therein. The rotational cavity 149 comprises a first arcuate groove / channel 150, allowing the shaft to rotate when folding the forks. The rotational cavity 149 also contains a second arcuate groove 152, providing a clearance for rotation of the lower part of the rod when lowering the fork hook. In other words, the lower part of the shaft may protrude behind the drum when lowering the fork, thereby requiring a clearance at the back to rotate the lower protruding part of the shaft together with the drum.

In FIG. 31 shows the lower part of the movable end member 100 adjacent to the shoulder. Said lower part has a cavity C. Two protrusions 154 snap into the connectors 122 illustrated in FIG. 32. In the bottom view of FIG. 31 also shows the protrusion 105.

In FIG. 32 shows a pressure bar (retaining pad) 120 of an end member adjacent to the shoulder. The holding guide rib 124 is designed both to hold the drum in place and to guide the drum as it rotates. In FIG. 33 shows the smooth face of the retaining pad of the end member adjacent to the shoulder.

The design of the end member adjacent to the clavicle is similar to that of the end member adjacent to the shoulder, as shown in FIG. 34. Adjacent to the clavicle end element 110 comprises a tab 114; channels 144 and 146; shoulders 142 at lateral edges with a rounded end 140; a rotational cavity 149 defining a hole B; as well as the first and second arcuate grooves / channels 150 and 152. In the bottom view of FIG. 35 shows a cavity C and lugs 154 for snapping into the connectors 134 of the retaining pad 130 shown in FIG. 36. The holding guide rib 134 holds and guides the drum. Rib 134 is above rib 124. The front surface of the retaining lining of the end member adjacent to the clavicle is smooth, as shown in FIG. 37.

As shown in FIG. 38-40, a cylindrical drum-shaped element (“drum”) 116 is characterized by concave sides 116b so that it can be conveniently held by the index finger and thumb. As shown in FIG. 38-40, this drum is characterized by concave side surfaces with a recess. In other embodiments, the concave drum 116 may be replaced by any other suitable rotating member providing the same or similar kinematic characteristics. The specified drum is enclosed in a corresponding end element (movable support element). The drum 116 is provided with a hole 116a for the shaft and an arcuate groove 116c.

In FIG. 41-46 show a bridge with a thumb screw adjustment mechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 41-43, the base 20 and the pillow 30 of the bridge 10 are identical to the similar elements described above. Similarly, the bridge is equipped with one fork 80 (with teeth, protrusions or fingers 82) at the end adjacent to the shoulder, and another fork 90 (with teeth, protrusions or fingers 92) at the end adjacent to the collarbone. The end member 100 adjacent to the shoulder is provided with a reed adjustable slider 102. The end member 110 adjacent to the clavicle is provided with a reed adjustable slider 112. The first wing screw 160 secures the first reed adjustable slider 102 in place at the end adjacent to the shoulder. Similarly, the second wing screw 162 secures the second reed adjustable slider 112 in place at the end adjacent to the clavicle. These throttle adjusting mechanisms are an alternative to the reed adjusting mechanisms described in the first embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 44 shows how the bridge is assembled by connecting the base 20 to the pad 30 and enclosing the drums 106 and 116 into the end members 100 and 110. The retaining pads 120 and 130 hold the drums 106 and 116 inside the holes of the end members 100 and 110, as described above. As shown in FIG. 44, the shoulder end member 100 is provided with a threaded hole 164 into which the thumb screw 160 is screwed. The end member 110 adjacent to the clavicle has a threaded hole 166 into which the thumb screw 162 is screwed. As shown in FIG. 45, the tip 161 of the wing screw 160 extends into one of a plurality of holes, i.e. lateral grooves locking the slider 102 in place. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 46, the tip 163 of the thumb screw 162 enters one of the transverse grooves 24 for fixing in place of the slider 112.

The embodiments of the claimed invention described above are for illustrative purposes only. The embodiments of the present invention presented in this document can be made many obvious changes, modifications and improvements without departing from the innovative ideas or ideas disclosed in this application, which is obvious to specialists in this field of technology to whom it is addressed. Thus, the scope of exclusive rights claimed by the applicant or applicants is limited solely by the attached claims.

Claims (11)

1. An adjustable folding bridge (10) for violins and violas, containing:
a base adjacent to the shoulder (20), characterized by the presence of a first end (40) and a second end (50); wherein said base is also characterized by the presence of a side (70) adjacent to the shoulder and a side (60) facing the tool;
a first fork-shaped grip (80) located at the first end (40) and intended to grip a violin or viola; wherein said grip (80) is configured to fold from the deployed position to the folded position;
a second folding grip (90) of a fork-shaped shape located on the second end (50) of the base of the bridge and designed to capture a violin or viola; while the specified capture is also made with the possibility of folding from the deployed position to the folded position;
a first movable end element (100) for receiving a threaded rod, which serves as a support for the first grip (80); wherein the first movable end element (100) is arranged to move between the extended position and the retracted position; wherein the first movable end element (100) is also provided with a curved channel (150) and (152), in which the rod (86) rotates when the first grip (80) moves from the deployed position to the folded position and back; the first movable end element (100) is arranged to move in the first groove (28) on the side of the bridge base (20) facing the tool (60) to extend or retract the first grip (80);
a second movable end element (110) serving as a support for the second grip (90); wherein the second movable end element (110) is arranged to move between the extended position and the retracted position; the second movable end element (110) is also provided with a curved channel (150) and (152), in which the rod (96) rotates when the second gripper (90) moves from the deployed position to the folded position and back; the second movable end element (110) is arranged to move in the second groove (28) on the side of the bridge base (20) facing the tool (60) for extending or retracting the second gripper (90);
wherein the movable end element (100) comprises a first protrusion (105), the shape of which allows it to enter one of the holes (24) of the first set located in the first groove (28); but
the second movable end element (110) contains a second protrusion (105), the shape of which allows it to enter into one of the holes (24) of the second set located in the second groove (28). 2. The bridge (10) according to claim 1, wherein the first plurality of holes (24) comprises transverse grooves located substantially at right angles to the axis of sliding movement of the first movable end member (100) within the first groove (28); and in which the second set of holes (24) contains transverse grooves located essentially at right angles to the axis of the sliding movement of the second movable end element (110) within the second groove (28); and in which the protrusion (105) is a transverse rib, the shape of which allows it to enter into one of the transverse grooves. 3. The bridge (10) according to claim 2, in which each of the movable end elements (100) and (110) contains a reed adjustable slider (102) and (112), which is bent when leaving the groove (28) to remove the protrusion ( 105) from the hole (24); while the reed adjustable slider (102) and (112) is made with the possibility of elastic displacement to return to an unbent position in the groove (28). 4. The bridge (10) according to claim 3, in which the reed adjustable slider (102) and (112) contains an elongated tongue (104) and (114), ending in a curved rounded tip that bends away from the groove (28). 5. The bridge (10) according to any one of paragraphs. 1-4, further comprising a foam pad (30) that is attached to the tool side (60) of the base (20) and which provides elasticity to the bridge. 6. The bridge (10) according to claim 5, in which the foam pillow (30) contains many holes (32). 7. The bridge (10) according to any one of paragraphs. 1-4, 6, in which the grippers (80 and 90) are fork-shaped asymmetrically located. 8. The bridge (10) according to claim 2, in which the transverse grooves (24) are provided only on the inward half of each groove (28). 9. The bridge (10) according to claim 4, in which the tongue (104) and (114) is characterized by a thickness that is less than the thickness of the reed slider, and a width that is less than the width of the reed adjustable slider. 10. The bridge (10) according to any one of paragraphs. 1-4, 6, 8-9, in which the first groove (28) is made curved, and the second groove (28) is made concave. 11. The bridge (10) according to any one of paragraphs. 1-4, 6, in which each movable end element (100) and (110) encloses a movable drum (106) and (116), which serves as a support for the rod (86) and (96) of each grip (80) and (90) forked.

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