WO2009017961A1 - Pianos playable in acoustic and silent modes - Google Patents

Abstract

A piano (100), playable in both an acoustic mode and a silent mode, includes a series of keys (110), a series of key actions (120), a series of rotatable hammers (130), and a hammer stopper (200). The hammer stopper includes at least one leash rail (210) rotatably disposed behind the hammers. The leash rail is rotatable among a first position (211) and a second position (213). The hammer stopper includes one or more leashes (220) secured to the leash rail, with each leash arranged to stop an associated hammer from striking a corresponding string (140) when the leash rail is rotated from the first position for acoustic play to the second position for silent play.

Description

Attorney Docket No.: 01556-239WO1

PIANOS PLAYABLE IN ACOUSTIC AND SILENT MODES

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This PCT application claims priority under PCT Article 8 from U.S.

Provisional Patent Application 60/952,955, filed on July 31, 2007.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates to pianos playable in both acoustic and silent modes.

BACKGROUND [0003] The acoustic piano employs distinct and separate systems to transfer energy from a finger or actuator input force into an auditory, vibrational force. The transmission system, commonly called the action, is a network of levers, cushions and hammers which accept finger/actuator input force through a collection of pivotal levers, known as keys. The keys and action focus this input force into rotating hammers of proportional density which are positioned to strike against tensioned wire strings. Both hammers and their corresponding strings are carefully constructed to match their acoustic properties, resulting in a tapered or graduated "scale" of components which cumulatively produce a multiple note span of musical frequencies. The strings act as media through which vibrational energy is transferred into an amplifier such as a soundboard, or electric speaker, where it ultimately is converted into audible sound.

[0004] Pianos can produce a wide range of volume. Large pianos can further expand this range to include very loud sounds, as heard in concert pianos which are expected to broadcast over an orchestra without the assistance of electric amplification. Pianos are prevalent in many cultures worldwide. They are present in many households, schools, institutions etc. Inevitably, this proximity of volume producing instruments creates situations where sound control and reduction are necessary. Many piano manufacturers have provided muting mechanisms within the piano to selectively restrict its volume level. These mechanisms typically comprise a rotating rail which inserts impact-absorbing material of varying density between the hammers and strings. One conventional (prior art) mute rail system 10, as shown in FIG. 1 , includes a key 1, an action 2 with a hammer 3 and a tensioned string 4. Attorney Docket No 01556-239WO1

Suspended above the action 2 is a mute rail 5 which rotates around a pivot point 6 thereby placing an absorbent material 7 between the hammer 3 and string 4. This type of mute rail reduces the piano volume to a level of sound that typically does not disrupt neighboring environments such as apartments, practice rooms, etc. [0005] Other conventional (prior art) systems, such as the mute rail system 20 shown in figure 2, are often excessively flexible due to the limited number of anchor points that are available for a rail 22 mounted within the interior of the action space. These systems can exhibit excessive vibratory motion when struck by groups of hammers at high velocities. The excessive vibratory motion dampens rebound forces of the hammers after impact, thereby changing the tactile sensation of the rebound forces as felt in the keys by the musician.

SUMMARY

[0006] In one aspect, a piano, playable in an acoustic mode and a silent mode, includes a series of keys, a series of key actions, a series of rotatable hammers, and a hammer stopper. Each key action is actuated by depression of a corresponding key. Each hammer defines a forward throw direction and has a corresponding string. The hammers are driven by corresponding key actions transferring forces from corresponding keys. The hammer stopper includes at least one leash rail rotatably disposed in the region of (e.g., behind) the hammers. Each leash rail is rotatable among a first position and a second position. The hammer stopper includes one or more leashes secured to the leash rail, with each leash arranged to stop an associated hammer from striking a corresponding string when the leash rail is rotated from the first position to the second position. The leash rail is rotated to the first position for play in the acoustic mode and the second position for play in the silent mode. [0007] Implementations of this aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following features. In some implementations, the leash is a line having first and second ends both secured to the leash rail, the line looping around the corresponding hammer. The first and second ends of the line may be both secured to a slotted tab, which is removably secured to the leash rail and configured to adjust a length of the associated leash. In other implementations, the leash is a line having first and second ends, the first end of the leash being secured to the leash rail and the second end of the leash being secured to the corresponding hammer. In some examples, the second end of the leash is secured to a shank of the hammer. In other Attorney Docket No 01556-239WO1

examples, the second end of the leash is secured to a head of the hammer. The line may be a cord having several strands braided, twisted, or woven together. In one example, the leash is a single mono-filament. In another example, the leash is a molded strap. In some examples, the piano includes one or more leash adjustment screws disposed on the leash rail and configured to adjust a length of an associated leash.

[0008] In some implementations, the piano includes a rail actuator configured to rotate the leash rail among the first and second positions. In some examples, the rail actuator includes a lever attached to the rail and a linkage pivotally attached to the lever and a pedal of the piano. Actuation of the piano pedal toggles the rail among the first and second positions. In some examples, the rail actuator includes at least one solenoid driving a linkage attached to the leash rail. In some examples, the rail actuator is a motor coupled to the leash rail. [0009] The piano may include a mode selection switch in communication with the rail actuator and controlling rotation of the leash rail among the first and second positions. A pedal of the piano may engage the mode selection switch. The piano may include a controller in communication with the rail actuator and controlling switching among the acoustic play mode and the silent play mode. The controller includes a controller housing, circuitry carried by the controller housing, and a display in communication with the circuitry. The controller housing is slidably attached below a keyboard portion of the piano. The controller housing slides among a stowed position and a deployed position. In some examples, the display is a touch screen. The controller may include a disk drive for storing and retrieving information. [0010] In another aspect, a piano, playable in an acoustic mode and an electronic mode, includes a series of keys, a series of key actions, a series of rotatable hammers, and a hammer stopper. Each key action is actuated by depression of a corresponding key. Each hammer defines a forward throw direction and has a corresponding string. The hammers are driven by corresponding key actions transferring forces from corresponding keys. The hammer stopper includes at least one leash rail rotatably disposed in the region of (e.g., behind) the hammers. The leash rail is rotatable among a first position and a second position. The hammer stopper includes one or more leashes secured to the leash rail, with each leash arranged to stop an associated hammer from striking a corresponding string when the Attorney Docket No ^■ 01556-239WOl

leash rail is rotated from the first position to the second position. A rail actuator rotates the leash rail to the first position for acoustic play and the second position for silent play. A controller is in communication with the rail actuator and a pedal configured to move among at least two engaged pedal positions. One of the pedal positions controls switching among the acoustic and electronic play modes.

[0011 ] Implementations of this aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following features. In some implementations, the piano pedal is moved among the engaged positions by pressing the pedal downwardly and rotating the pedal laterally to each position. Each engaged pedal position provides different piano control. One of the pedal positions may control piano volume during the electronic play mode. One of the pedal positions may control a preprogrammed function of the controller.

[0012] In yet another aspect, a hammer stopper for a piano having a series of hammers, each defining a forward throw direction and having a corresponding string, includes at least one leash rail rotatably disposed in the region of (e.g., behind) the hammers. The leash rail is rotatable among a first position and a second position. The hammer stopper includes one or more leashes secured to the leash rail, with each leash arranged to stop an associated hammer from striking a corresponding string when the leash rail is rotated from the first position to the second position. [0013] Implementations of this aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following features. In some implementations, the leash is a line having first and second ends both secured to the leash rail, the line looping around the corresponding hammer. The first and second ends of the line may be both secured to a slotted tab, which is removably secured to the leash rail and configured to adjust a length of the associated leash. In other implementations, the leash is a line having first and second ends, the first end of the leash being secured to the leash rail and the second end of the leash being secured to the corresponding hammer. In some examples, the second end of the leash is secured to a shank of the hammer. In other examples, the second end of the leash is secured to a head of the hammer. The line may be a cord having several strands braided, twisted, or woven together. In some examples, the hammer stopper includes one or more leash adjustment screws disposed on the leash rail and configured to adjust a length of an associated leash. Attorney Docket No 01556-239WO1

[0014] In some implementations, the hammer stopper includes a rail actuator configured to rotate the leash rail among the first and second positions. In some examples, the rail actuator includes a lever attached to the rail and a linkage pivotally attached to the lever and a piano pedal. Actuation of the piano pedal toggles the leash rail among the first and second positions. In some examples, the rail actuator is a solenoid driving a linkage attached to the leash rail. In some examples, the rail actuator is a motor coupled to the leash rail.

[0015] In another aspect, a piano, playable in an acoustic mode and a silent mode, includes a series of keys, a series of key actions, a series of rotatable hammers, and a hammer stopper. Each key action is actuated by depression of a corresponding key. Each hammer defines a forward throw direction and has a corresponding string. The hammers are driven by corresponding key actions transferring forces from corresponding keys. The hammer stopper includes at least one leash rail rotatably disposed in the region of (e.g., behind) the hammers. The leash rail is rotatable among a first position and a second position. A blocking rail is rotatably disposed forward of the hammers and is rotatable among a first position and a second position. One or more leashes are secured to the leash rail. Each leash is arranged to translate rotation of the leash rail to the blocking rail. The blocking rail stops at least one hammer from striking a corresponding string when the blocking rail is rotated from the first position to the second position. The leash rail is rotated to the first position for acoustic play and the second position for silent play.

[0016] Implementations of this aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following features. In some implementations, the leash is a line having first and second ends both secured to the leash rail, the line looping around the blocking rail. The first and second ends of the line may be both secured to a slotted tab, which is removably secured to the leash rail and configured to adjust a length of the associated leash. In other implementations, the leash is a line having first and second ends, the first end of the leash being secured to the leash rail and the second end of the leash being secured to the blocking rail. The line may be a cord having several strands braided, twisted, or woven together. In some examples, the piano includes one or more leash adjustment screws disposed on the leash rail and configured to adjust a length of an associated leash. Attorney Docket No.: 01556-239WO1

[0017] In some implementations, the piano includes a rail actuator configured to rotate the leash rail among the first and second positions. In some examples, the rail actuator includes a lever attached to the rail and a linkage pivotally attached to the lever and a pedal of the piano. Actuation of the piano pedal toggles the leash rail among the first and second positions. In some examples, the rail actuator is a solenoid driving a linkage attached to the leash rail. In some examples, the rail actuator is a motor coupled to the leash rail.

[0018] The piano may include a mode selection switch in communication with the rail actuator and controlling rotation of the leash rail among the first and second positions. A pedal of the piano may engage the mode selection switch. The piano may include a controller in communication with the rail actuator and controlling switching among the acoustic play mode and the silent play mode. The controller includes a controller housing, circuitry carried by the controller housing, and a display in communication with the circuitry. The controller housing is slidably attached below a keyboard portion of the piano. The controller housing slides among a stowed position and a deployed position. In some examples, the display is a touch screen. The controller may include a disk drive for storing and retrieving information. [0019] The details of one or more implementations of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0020] FIG. 1 is a side view of a prior art hammer stopper assembly.

[0021 ] FIG. 2 is a side view of a prior art hammer stopper assembly. [0022] FIG. 3 is a section view of an upright piano with a hammer stopper assembly.

[0023] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a hammer stopper assembly.

[0024] FIG. 5 is a side view of hammer stopper assembly with a hammer leash. [0025] FIG. 6 is a side view of hammer stopper assembly with a blocking rail and associated leash.

[0026] FIG 7 is a side view of a leash rail bracket.

[0027] FIG. 8 is a side view of a leash rail and an associated leash. Attorney Docket No.: 01556-239WO1

[0028] FIGS. 9A-9D are top views of leash accessories.

[0029] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a hammer stopper assembly.

[0030] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a leash of a hammer stopper assembly.

[0031] FIG. 12 is a side view of a hammer stopper assembly for a horizontal piano.

[0032] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a controller unit on a piano.

[0033] FIGS. 14-15 are perspective views of piano pedal assemblies.

[0034] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0035] Referring to FIGS. 3-5, a piano 100, playable in an acoustic mode and a silent mode, includes a series of keys 110 and corresponding key actions 120 linked to rear ends of the keys 110. Each key action 120 is actuated by depression of a corresponding key 110. A series of rotatable hammers 130, each defining a forward throw direction T are driven by corresponding key actions 120, which transfer forces from corresponding pressed keys 110. Each hammer 130 is aligned to strike a corresponding string 140, upon being thrown.

[0036] Each hammer 130 includes a hammer shank 132, a butt 134 attached to a first end of the shank 132, and a hammer head 136 attached to an opposite, second end of the shank 132. A depressed or actuated key 110 causes a jack 122 of the associated key action 120 to kick the butt 134 of the hammer 130. When the jack 122 kicks the butt 134, the butt 134 and the hammer shank 132 are driven for rotation toward the associated strings 140. The hammer head 136 strikes the string(s) 140, producing an acoustic sound. When the keys 1 10 are in a rest position (e.g. when a player is not pressing the keys 110), the hammers 130 remain in home positions, resting on a hammer resting rail 138.

[0037] A hammer stopper assembly 200, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, includes at least one leash rail 210 rotatably disposed behind the hammers 110 and substantially perpendicular to the throw direction T of the hammers 130. Multiple leash rails 210 may be disposed in the piano 100, where each leash rail 210 stops only a certain number of hammers 130 of piano 100. In some implementations, the leash rail 210 is located proximate the hammer resting rail 138. In one example, the leash rail 210 is located above the hammer resting rail 138 and in the vicinity of the resting hammer heads 136. The leash rail 210 is rotated among a first position 211 for Attorney Docket No 01556-239WO1

acoustic play and at least one second position 213 for silent play by an actuator 230 coupled to the leash rail 210. The actuator 230 may be a linear or rotary solenoid, stepper or servo motor, thumb lever, linked piano pedal, or other suitable means. In some implementations, the actuator 230 is bi-directionally rotatable. In one example, the actuator 230 is an ultrasonic motor, which is capable of maintaining the leash rail 210 at any rotational position without a current to the motor 230 and quickly rotating without backlash. In another implementation, the rail actuator 230 includes a lever 238 attached to the leash rail 210 and a linkage 239 pivotally attached to the lever and a pedal of the piano. Actuation of the piano pedal 161, 162, 163 toggles the leash rail 210 among the first and second positions 211, 213. In another example, a solenoid 237 drives the linkage 239.

[0038] One or more leashes 220 are secured to the leash rail 210. Each leash

220 is arranged to stop an associated hammer 130 from striking the corresponding string 140 when the leash rail 210 is rotated from the first position 211 to the second position 213 for silent play. In some implementations, the leash 220 is a line having first and second ends, 221 and 223 respectively, both secured to the leash rail 210. The line 220 loops around the hammer shank 132 of the corresponding hammer 130. In other implementations, the first end 221 of the line 220 is secured to the leash rail 210 and the opposite, second end 223 is secured to the hammer shank 132 or the hammer head 136. In one example, the line 220 is a cord or strap having several strands braided, twisted, or woven together. In another example, the leash 220 is a single mono-filament. In some examples, the leash 220 is a molded strap. In some examples the leash 220 is constructed from woven cloth (e.g., as a strap). The woven cloth preferably includes a high sley count (the total amount of fiber in the fabric), a super tight weave (the closer the fibers are woven, the more stable the weave), and high tenacity fibers. In particular, woven cloths having large denier fill yarns, locked in place by more closely spaced warp ends allows the fill yarn to remain straight thereby reducing stretch. These properties may be found in sail cloth, such as the HSX fabrics provided by Bainbridge International Ltd, which use a highly unbalanced construction of high tenacity polyester yarns to improve resistance to stretch.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 6, a hammer stopper assembly 201 includes at least one leash rail 210 rotatably disposed behind the hammers 130 and substantially perpendicular to the throw direction T of the hammers 130. Multiple hammer stopper Attorney Docket No 01556-239WO 1

or leash rails 210 may be disposed in the piano 100, where each leash rail 210 stops only a certain number of hammers 130 of piano 100. In some implementations, the leash rail 210 is located proximate the hammer resting rail 138. In one example, the leash rail 210 is located above the hammer resting rail 138 and in the vicinity of the resting hammer heads 136. Similar to the hammer stopper assembly 200 described above, the leash rail 210 is rotated among a first position 211 for acoustic play and at least one second position 213 for silent or muted play by an actuator 230 coupled to the leash rail 210. The actuator 230 may be a linear or rotary solenoid, stepper or servo motor, thumb lever, linked piano pedal, or other suitable means. In some examples, the actuator 230 is an assembly of two solenoids are stacked on each other. In some implementations, the actuator 230 is bi-directionally rotatable. In one example, the actuator 230 is an ultrasonic motor, which is capable of maintaining the leash rail 210 at any rotational position without a current to the motor 230 and quickly rotating without backlash. At least one leash 220 is secured to the leash rail 210 and a blocking rail 215 pivotally mounted within an interior action space 122 and configured to temporarily block one or more hammers 130. The blocking rail 215 may include a hammer cushion 116 positioned to receive and absorb the impact of a thrown hammer 130. The leash 220 can be strategically arranged or located at a place where the blocking rail 215 is most prone to flexing or deformation, such as midpoints between conventional action brackets 126. The leash 220 is arranged to pivot the blocking rail 215 among a non-blocking position 217A and one or more blocking positions 217B. In some implementations, the leash 220 is a line having first and second ends 221 and 223, respectively, both secured to the leash rail 210. The line 220 loops around the blocking rail 215. In other implementations, the first end 221 of the line 220 is secured to the leash rail 210 and the opposite, second end 223 is secured to the blocking rail 215. In one example, the line 220 is a cord having several strands braided, twisted, or woven together. In another example, the leash 220 is a single mono-filament. In some examples, the leash 220 is a molded strap. [0040] Referring to FIGS. 7-8, the leash rail 210 is rotatably supported by a rail bracket 231 via a bushing 232. The rail bracket 231 is connected to a piano action bracket 126, e.g., by both a screw 127A and an action thumbscrew 127B. In some implementations, the leash rail 210 is surrounded by a cushion or damper 212, such as an elastic material (e.g. elastic tube) configured to dampen for the leashes 220 against Attorney Docket No O 1556-239WO 1

impacts. In some examples, the cushion 212 is formed of one or more sheets of felt or urethane and bonded to the rail 210. The cushion 212 is durable against hammer strike impacts transmitted through the leashes 220. The leashes 220 are secured to a flange 214, in some examples, which aids assembly/service by holding the leashes 220 in a correct position and prevents leash slippage during piano use. In some implementations, the leash rail 210 includes leash adjustment screws 216, each attached to an associated leash 220. Adjustment of the leash adjustment screw 216 varies a leash length, which varies a stopping position of the associated hammer 130. Adjusting the hammer stopping position to be as close as possible to the strings 140 without touching the strings minimizes any degradation of piano key touch. In the example shown, an outer cap 218 disposed over the leashes 220 and the leash rail 210 stiffens the leash rail 210 against impact forces and clamps the leashes 220 in place via a series of screws 219 spaced at regular intervals along the leash rail 210. In some implementations, leash servicing can also be done by sections, by moving an entire leash rail 210. This can be done by inserting (or removing) shims between the action bracket 126 and the rail mounting bracket 231, thereby moving the entire leash rail 210 toward or away from the hammers 130. Adjusting the distance between the leash rail 210 and the hammers 130 may be a macro adjustment across all the associated leashes 220. Afterwards, the individual leashes 220 may be adjusted on the leash rail 210.

[0041] After a period of use, the leashes 220 may stretch, thereby potentially allowing the hammers 130 to strike the strings 140 during the silent play mode. Servicing of the leashes 220 entails loosening the outer cap 218, repositioning the leashes 220 to the appropriate length, and re-securing the outer cap 218 to the leash rail 210. If the leash rail 210 includes leash adjustment screws 216, the leash adjustment screws 216 are rotated to change the effective length of the associated leash 220.

[0042] Another method of altering the leash length is by adding a length altering leash accessory 222, as illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9D. The leash accessory 222 attaches to the leash 220 and, while attached, shortens the leash length. One example of a leash accessory 222A includes a leash accessory body 224A (e.g. elliptical or circular shaped) defining two holes 226 through which the leash 220 passes through. The effective leash length is shortened by creating a non-linearity in the leash 220. In Attorney Docket No 01556-239WO1

another example, a leash accessory 222A includes a leash accessory body 224B defining a substantially S-shaped figure. The leash accessory 222A is clipped over the leash 220, which follows an S-shaped path around the leash accessory 222A, thereby effectively decreasing the leash length. FIG. 9C illustrates an example of a leash accessory 222C having a leash accessory body 224C (e.g., rectangular shaped) defining two holes 226A, 226B through which the leash 220 passes through. However, in this case, one of the holes 226A is a slotted hole to allow the leash to pass therethrough at a greater angle relative to the leash accessory body 224C than the other hole 226B, which is substantially circular. In the example, illustrated in FIG. 9D, a leash accessory 222D defines a substantially U or C shaped leash accessory body 224D that defines first and second slotted holes 226C, 226D at opposite ends of the leash accessory body 224D. The leash is threaded through the slotted holes 226C,

226D.

[0043] Referring to FIGS. 10-11 , in some implementations, the first and second ends 221 and 223, respectively, of the leash 220 are secured to a tab 225 (e.g. via an adhesive), which defines a slotted hole 226 sized to receive the leash adjustment screw 216. The leash adjustment screw 216 secures the tab 225 to the rail

210. In this example, servicing of the leash 220 entails loosening the leash adjustment screw 216, adjusting an effective length of the leash 220 by sliding the slotted tab 225 in relation to the leash rail 210 (e.g. toward or away from the hammer 130 or blocking rail 215), and tightening the leash adjustment screw 216 to re-secure the tab 225 and associated leash 220.

[0044] FIG. 12 illustrates an implementation of the hammer stopper assembly

200 on a horizontal (grand-style) piano 100. The hammer throw direction T is upward. The hammer stopping rail 210 is located behind (e.g. below - from a viewer's perspective) the hammers 130 proximate the hammer head 136. [0045] During piano play, the key actions 120 drive associated hammers 130 for rotation as the jack 122 kicks the butt 134. Escapement of the jack 122 off the butt 134 provides a piano key touch. The hammers 130 travel from resting positions on the hammer resting rail 138 toward strike positions at the associated strings 140. During the acoustic play mode, the leash rail 210 is rotated to the first rail position

21 1, which unwinds the leashes 220 from leash the rail 210, thereby effectively lengthening the leashes 220 and allowing the hammers 130 to strike the strings 140. Attorney Docket No.: 01556-239WO1

During silent play mode, the leash rail 210 is rotated to the second rail position 213, winding the leashes 220 about the leash rail 210 and effectively shortening the leashes 220. The shortened leashes 220 prevent the hammers 130 from striking the strings 140. In the example using looped lines as leashes 220, the looped line 220 becomes taut as the hammer 130 approaches the strings 140 and stops the hammer 130 just short of striking of the strings 140. In the example of the leash 220 in the form of a tethered line, the first end 221 of the line 220 is secured to the hammer stopping rail 210 and the opposite, second end 223 of the line 220 is secured to the hammer shank 132 or the hammer head 136. Again, the line 220 becomes taut and stops the thrown hammer 130 from striking of the strings 140.

[0046] In some implementations, the piano 100 includes a mode switch 150 in communication with the rail actuator 230. A user may toggle the mode switch 150 to alter the play mode between acoustic play and silent play, and the leash rail 210 is rotated to the corresponding position of the play mode. [0047] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 13, in some implementations, the piano 100 includes a controller unit 300. The controller unit 300 includes a controller housing 302 that may house all circuit boards 304 or additional circuit boards associated with the piano may be housed elsewhere in the piano 100 (e.g. behind the key bed). The controller unit 300 is typically disposed below a keyboard portion 11 1 and slidable among first and second positions, 301 and 303 respectively. The first position 301 providing user access to the controller unit 300, and the second position stowing the controller unit 300. The controller unit 300 is in communication with the rail actuator 230, a speaker 170, and optionally the pedal assembly 160. The controller unit 300 carries circuitry that controls switching between play modes (e.g. via the actuator 230), storing play information (e.g. MIDI files), electronic play calibration, tone adjustment, and trouble shooting, inter alia. In some examples, a user may a switch between play modes via a switch or other input device on the controller unit 300. In some examples, the controller unit 300 includes a display 310 (e.g. LCD display or touch screen) to communicate controlled information (e.g. play mode, piano voices, etc). If the display 310 is a touch screen, the user may provide desired control inputs via the display 310. The controller unit 300 may include the mode switch 150, a volume control knob 320, voice selection controls 330, and a headphone jack 350 configured to a head phone. Examples of information displayed by the display 310 Attorney Docket No.: 01556-239WO1

include: descriptions of voices, commands, modes, and other selections available to the user; graphs of sound waveforms; and flashing prompts signaling various events. The controller unit 300 may include light emitting diodes (LED) indicating button, switch, and or mode selections. In some examples, the controller unit 300 defines ports for MIDI input, audio input, supplemental power, universal serial bus, ethernet, and/or phone connections. In one example, the controller unit 300 includes a CD and/or DVD drive 350 in communication with the circuitry housed by the controller unit 300. The disk drive 350 allows the user to store, create (record), retrieve (playback), and share MIDI and audio files. [0048] The piano 100 includes a pedal assembly 160 having three pedals 161,

162, 163. The pedal assembly 160 includes a left pedal 161, which typically moves a hammer rail closer to the strings 140, in an upright piano, and moves the key frame sideways so that the hammers 130 strike two strings 140 instead of three strings 140, in a grand (horizontal) piano. The pedal assembly 160 includes a middle pedal 162 which may typically 1) actuate a mute rail (e.g. via felt that drops between the hammers 130 and the strings 140); 2) actuate a bass sustain; 3) actuate a Sostenuto, which enables selected notes to be sustained independently from the others; or 4) non-exist, but is added for this assembly 160. In a grand piano, the middle pedal 162 is typically a Sostenuto pedal. The pedal assembly 160 includes a right pedal 163, which is typically a damper pedal. In some implementations, one of the pedals 161, 162, 163, preferably the middle pedal 162, is configured to control the piano play mode, e.g., switching between silent play mode and acoustic play mode. The mode selection pedal 162 may function as described above and/or as a play mode selector. [0049] Referring to FIG. 14, the silent play mode is engaged by pressing to the mode selection pedal 162 downward and then rotating it laterally to a lockably engaged position 167 to hold the silent play mode. In one implementation, the mode selection pedal 162 engages the mode selection switch 150 when moved to the engaged position 167. The mode selection pedal 162 may be held in the engaged position 167, e.g., by a magnet, detent in a piano casing, a bracket, or other suitable arrangement.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 15, in some implementations, the mode selection pedal 162 is a multi-stage piano pedal configured to be moved among 3-4 engageable positions by a user. A first engaged position 167A controls volume while the piano Attorney Docket No 01556-239WO1

100 is played in the silent/electronic mode. A second engaged position 167B controls switching between the acoustic and silent/electronic play modes. A third engaged position 167C in combination with another signal device (e.g. key, actuator button, lever, etc.) controls a predetermined or programmable set of specific functions. Optionally, a fourth engaged position 167D when depressed and locked can hold a particular function (e.g. actuate a stopper rail) until unlocked. The multistage pedal 162 may include a sensor system in communication with the controller unit 300, which detects the engaged positions 167A, 167B, 167C, 167D, allowing the controller unit 300 to respond accordingly. [0051] A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

Attorney Docket No 01556-239WO1WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A piano (100) playable in an acoustic mode and a silent mode, the piano (100) comprising: a series of keys (1 10); a series of key actions (120), each key action (120) actuated by depression of a corresponding key (1 10); a series of rotatable hammers (130), each defining a forward throw direction (T) and having a corresponding string (140), the hammers (130) being driven by corresponding key actions (120) transferring forces from corresponding keys (110); and a hammer stopper (200) comprising: at least one leash rail (210) rotatably disposed in the region of the hammers (130), each leash rail (210) being rotatable among a first position (211) and a second position (213); and one or more leashes (220) secured to the leash rail (210), each leash

(220) arranged to stop an associated hammer (130) from striking a corresponding string (140) when the leash rail (210) is rotated from the first position (211) to the second position (213); wherein the leash rail (210) is rotated to the first position (211) for acoustic play and the second position (213) for silent play.

2. A piano (100) playable in an acoustic mode and a silent mode, the piano (100) comprising: a series of keys (110); a series of key actions (120), each key action (120) actuated by depression of a corresponding key (110); a series of rotatable hammers (130), each defining a forward throw direction (T) and having a corresponding string (140), the hammers (130) being driven by corresponding key actions (120) transferring forces from corresponding keys (110); and a hammer stopper (200) comprising: Attorney Docket No 01556-239WO1

a leash rail (210) rotatably disposed in the region of the hammers (130), each leash rail (210) being rotatable among a first position (211) and a second position (213); a blocking rail (215) rotatably disposed forward of the hammers (130), each blocking rail (215) being rotatable among a first position (217A) and a second position (217B); and one or more leashes (220) secured to the leash rail (210), each leash (220) arranged to translate rotation of the leash rail (210) to the blocking rail (215), the blocking rail (215) stopping at least one hammer (130) from striking a corresponding string (140) when the blocking rail (215) is rotated from the first position (217A) to the second position (217B); wherein the leash rail (210) is rotated to the first position (211) for acoustic play and the second position (213) for silent play.

3. The piano (100) of any preceding claims, further comprising a rail actuator (230) configured to rotate the leash rail (210) among the first and second positions (211, 213).

4. The piano (100) of claim 3, wherein the rail actuator (230) comprises: a lever (238) attached to the leash rail (210); and a linkage (239) pivotally attached to the lever and a pedal (161, 162, 163) of the piano (100); wherein actuation of the piano pedal (161, 162, 163) toggles the leash rail (210) among the first and second positions (211, 213).

5. The piano (100) of claim 3, wherein the rail actuator (230) comprises at least one solenoid (237) driving a linkage (238) attached to the leash rail (210).

6. The piano (100) of claim 3, wherein the rail actuator (230) comprises a motor (230) coupled to the leash rail (210).

7. The piano (100) of any of claims 3-6, further comprising a mode selection switch (150) in communication with the rail actuator (230) and controlling rotation of the leash rail (210) among the first and second positions (211, 213). Attorney Docket No.: 01556-239WO1

8. The piano (100) of claim 7, wherein a pedal (161,162,163) of the piano (100) engages the mode selection switch (150).

9. The piano (100) of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a controller (300) in communication with the rail actuator (230) and controlling switching among the acoustic play mode and the silent play mode.

10. The piano (100) of claim 9, wherein the controller (360) comprises: a controller housing (302); circuitry (304) carried by the controller housing (302); and a display (310) in communication with the circuitry (304).

11. The piano (100) of any of claims 9-10, wherein the controller housing (302) is slidably attached below a keyboard portion (111) of the piano (100), the controller housing (302) sliding among a stowed position (303) and a deployed position (301).

12. The piano of (100) of claim 10, wherein the display (310) comprises a touch screen (310).

13. The piano ( 100) of any of claims 9- 12, wherein the controller (300) further comprises a disk drive (350).

14. A piano (100) playable in an acoustic mode and an electronic mode, the piano (10) comprising: a series of keys (110); a series of key actions (120), each key action (120) actuated by depression of a corresponding key (1 10); a series of rotatable hammers (130), each defining a forward throw direction (T) and having a corresponding string (140), the hammers (130) being driven by corresponding key actions (120) transferring forces from corresponding keys (1 10); a hammer stopper (200) comprising: Attorney Docket No 01556-239WO1

at least one leash rail (210) rotatably disposed in the region of the hammers (130), each leash rail (210) being rotatable among a first position (211) and a second position (213); and one or more leashes (220) secured to the leash rail (210), each leash (220) arranged to stop an associated hammer (130) from striking a corresponding string (140) when the leash rail (210) is rotated from the first position (211) to the second position (213); a rail actuator (230) rotating the leash rail (210) to the first position (211) for acoustic play and to the second position (213) for electronic play; a controller (300) in communication with the rail actuator (230); and a pedal (162) in communication with the controller (300) and configured to move among at least two engaged pedal positions (167, 167A, 167B, 167C, 167D), one of the pedal positions (167A, 167B, 167C, 167D) controlling switching among the acoustic and electronic play modes.

15. The piano (100) of claim 11, wherein the piano pedal (162) is moved among the engaged positions (167A, 167B, 167C, 167D) by pressing the pedal (162) downwardly and rotating the pedal (162) laterally to each position (167A, 167B, 167C, 167D), each engaged pedal position (167 A, 167B, 167C, 167D) providing different piano control.

16. The piano ( 100) of any of claims 14-15, wherein one of the pedal positions (167A, 167B, 167C, 167D) controls piano volume during the electronic play mode.

17. The piano ( 100) of any of claims 14-16, wherein one of the pedal positions (167A, 167B, 167C, 167D) controls a preprogrammed function of the controller (300).

18. The piano (100) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the leash (220) comprises a line (220) having first and second ends (221, 223) both secured to the leash rail (210), the line (220) looping around the corresponding hammer (130). Attorney Docket No.: 01556-239WO1

19. The piano (100) of claim 18, wherein the first and second ends (221, 223) of the line (220) are both secured to a slotted tab (225), the slotted tab (225) removably secured to the leash rail (210) and configured to adjust a length of the associated leash (220).

20. The piano (100) of any of claims 1-17, wherein the leash (220) comprises a line (220) having first and second ends (221, 223), the first end (221) of the leash (220) being secured to the leash rail (210) and the second end (223) of the leash (220) being secured to the corresponding hammer (130).

21. The piano (100) of claim 20, wherein the second end (223) of the leash (220) is secured to a shank (132) of the hammer (130).

22. The piano ( 100) of claim 20, wherein the second end (223) of the leash (220) is secured to a head (136) of the hammer (130).

23. The piano (100) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the leash (220) comprises a cord (220) having several strands braided, twisted, or woven together.

24. The piano (100) of any of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one leash adjustment screw (216) disposed on the leash rail (210) and configured to adjust a length of the associated leash (220).

25. The piano (100) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one leash rail (210) is disposed behind the hammers (130).

26. A hammer stopper (200) for a piano (100) having a series of hammers (130), each defining a forward throw direction (T) and having a corresponding string (140), the hammer stopper (200) comprising: at least one leash rail (210) rotatably disposed in the region of the hammers (130), the leash rail (210) being rotatable among a first position (211) and a second position (213); and Attorney Docket No 01556-239WO1

one or more leashes (220) secured to the leash rail (210), each leash (220) arranged to stop an associated hammer (130) from striking a corresponding string (140) when the leash rail (210) is rotated from the first position (211) to the second position (213).

27. The hammer stopper (200) of claim 26, wherein the leash (220) comprises a line (220) having first and second ends (221, 223) both secured to the leash rail (210), the line (220) looping around the corresponding hammer (130).

28. The hammer stopper of claim 27, wherein the first and second ends (221, 223) of the line (220) are both secured to a slotted tab (225), the slotted tab (225) removably secured to the leash rail (210) and configured to adjust a length of the associated leash (220).

29. The hammer stopper of claim 26, wherein the leash (220) comprises a line (220) having first and second ends (221, 223), the first end (221) of the leash (220) being secured to the leash rail (210) and the second end (223) of the leash (220) being secured to the corresponding hammer (130).

30. The hammer stopper of claim 29, wherein the second end (223) of the leash (220) is secured to a shank (132) of the hammer (130).

31. The hammer stopper of claim 29, wherein the second end (223) of the leash (220) is secured to a head (136) of the hammer (130).

32. The hammer stopper of any of claims 26-31 , further comprising at least one leash adjustment screw (216) disposed on the leash rail (210) and configured to adjust a length of the associated leash (220).

33. The hammer stopper of any of claims 26-32, wherein the leash (220) comprises a cord (220) having several strands braided, twisted, or woven together. Attorney Docket No.: 01556-239WO1

34. The hammer stopper of any of claims 26-33, further comprising a rail actuator (230) configured to rotate the leash rail (210) among the first and second positions (211, 213).

35. The hammer stopper of claim 34, wherein the rail actuator (230) comprises: a lever (238) attached to the leash rail (210); and a linkage (239) pivotally attached to the lever and a pedal (161, 162, 163) of the piano (100); wherein actuation of the piano pedal (161, 162, 163) toggles the leash rail (210) among the first and second positions (211, 213).

36. The hammer stopper of claim 34, wherein the rail actuator (230) comprises at least one solenoid (237) driving a linkage (238) attached to the leash rail (210).

37. The hammer stopper of claim 34, wherein the rail actuator (230) comprises a motor (230) coupled to the leash rail (210) .

38. The hammer stopper of any of claims 26-37, wherein the at least one leash rail (210) is disposed behind the hammers (130).