WO2018200301A1

WO2018200301A1 - Modular multi-state stackable electric piano

Info

Publication number: WO2018200301A1
Application number: PCT/US2018/028272
Authority: WO
Inventors: James ROTBERT; Keith KREINER; Nicholas RENDER; Nicholas GAZILLO
Original assignee: Octave, Inc.
Priority date: 2017-04-25
Filing date: 2018-04-19
Publication date: 2018-11-01

Abstract

Disclosed is a modular multi-state stackable electric piano (MMSSEP) that comprises a power module and one or more octave modules connected together. The MMSSEP may have two states: a play state and a retracted/transport state. The octave module can be connected to and disconnected from a connected series of octave modules individually or in a group with other octave modules via the inter-octave connector. Three different retraction schemes optimize the octave modules to stack on top of each other. A weighted hammer that can move under a key and lock in place is implemented in the MMSSEP.

Description

MODULAR MULTI-STATE STACKABLE ELECTRIC PIANO

BACKGROUND

[0001] The present invention relates generally to electric music instruments. More particularly, the present invention relates to modular electric pianos.

[0002] The portable electric piano has become the primary tool for modern musicians and DJ ' s for sampling and creating sounds, as well as practicing, performing, and recording piano on the go. Despite the impact the piano continues to make on modern music, there has not been a significant amount of technological improvement to the portability and adaptability of the electric piano since its invention. Currently, there is no portable electric piano today that is portable enough to be passively carried with a musician, while also remaining truly authentic in its replication of real piano key haptic responses.

SUMMARY

[0003] In accordance with the present disclosure, there is provided a modular electric piano comprising a power module; at least one octave module coupled to the power module, the octave module comprising a group of retractable white and black piano keys; an inter-octave connector configured to couple the at least one octave module to another octave module; a key holder coupled to each of the retractable keys in the group of retractable white and black piano keys, the key holder comprising a lift

mechanism configured to raise and lower the key holder relative to a base plate; a weighted hammer coupled to each of the retractable keys in the group of retractable white and black piano keys. [0004] In another and alternative embodiment, the octave module comprises a full octave of a piano.

[0005] In another and alternative embodiment, the at least one octave module is configured in at least one of a connected series, a staggered configuration and a standard configuration .

[0006] In another and alternative embodiment, the key holder comprises a key joint configured to allow the retractable keys to pivot.

[0007] In another and alternative embodiment, the modular electric piano further comprises a hammer-pinching tab coupled to the key holder, wherein the hammer-pinching tab is configured to pinch the hammer against the base plate .

[0008] In another and alternative embodiment, the modular electric piano further comprises a hammer holder slidably mounted onto a hammer holder track between a front track stopper and a rear track stopper formed in the base plate, wherein the hammer holder is configured to pivotably support the weighted hammer confined in a key slot.

[0009] In another and alternative embodiment, the modular electric piano further comprises at least one folding stand adapter comprising a set of beam modules hinged at protruding beam joints forming a stand-adapter group configured to support the modular electric piano, the at least one folding stand adapter configured foldable to a surface area equal to a surface area of the octave module.

[0010] In accordance with the present disclosure, there is provided a modular multi-state stackable electric piano comprising a power module coupled to at least one octave module configurable between a play state and a

retracted/transport state; the at least one octave module comprising at least one inter-octave connector, the at least one inter-octave connector configured to removably couple with another octave module in a series of octave modules; the at least one octave module configured

stackable with the another octave module; and the at least one octave module comprising a weighted hammer operably coupled to a key, the weighted hammer configured to move under the key and lock in place.

[0011] In another and alternative embodiment, the series of octave modules comprises a line of adjacent octave modules .

[0012] In another and alternative embodiment, the series of octave modules comprises two interconnected lines of adjacent octave modules, wherein a first line of adjacent octave modules is raised above and connected behind a second line of adjacent octave modules in a staggered configuration .

[0013] In another and alternative embodiment, the modular multi-state stackable electric piano further comprises a communication network configured between the series of adjacent octave modules; the communication network comprising a series of communication lines

configured to allow the octave modules to communicate key press information to the power module and configured to facilitate the octave module to couple or decouple from the series of adjacent octave modules.

[0014] In another and alternative embodiment, the play state comprises the key being raised and the weighted hammer being movable beneath the key.

[0015] In another and alternative embodiment, the retracted/transport state comprises the key lowering to remain parallel to a playing surface and the weighted hammer shifting into a locked position, wherein a clearance of the octave module is reduced.

[0016] In another and alternative embodiment, each of the at least one octave module houses a crossbar beam in a crossbar beam track of the at least one octave module, the crossbar beam configured to slidably support the series of octave modules.

[0017] In another and alternative embodiment, the at least one inter-octave connector further comprises two prongs and an associated threaded protrusion configured to couple with a corresponding female connector comprising two prong holes with slots configured to receive the two prongs and a thread cavity configured to receive the threaded protrusion, wherein the two prongs and threaded protrusion are rotatably insertably interlocked with the respective female connector prong holes and threaded cavity.

[0018] In another and alternative embodiment, the key comprises a capacitive touch sensor configured to provide additional sound control.

[0019] In another and alternative embodiment, the communication network is configured to allow each of the at least one octave module to own any musical octave note range, so as to configure the order and configuration of each of the at least one octave module.

[0020] In another and alternative embodiment, the communication network is configured to allow for each of the at least one octave module to couple and decouple from the series of octave modules in any order, wherein each of the at least one octave module is configured electrically and mechanically identical and redundant.

[0021] In another and alternative embodiment, the power module is configured to allow for each of the at least one octave module to identify with an octave module number, responsive to at least one of being disconnected, rearranged, and reconnected at a different location in the series of octave modules.

[0022] According to a first broad aspect, the present invention provides a musical system comprising a power module, a plurality of octave modules comprising keys, and plurality of connecting devices. The plurality of octave modules is configured to be able to connect together via a plurality of inter-octave connectors to form a connected series. The power module is configured to be able to connect to the plurality of octave modules at a far end the connected series of octave modules. The music device is interchangeable between a play state and a

retracted/transport state. Each of the plurality of octave modules is configured to be able to be disconnected from a connected series or added to a connected series. The octave module can be connected to and disconnected from a

connected series of octave modules individually or in a group with other octave modules via the inter-octave connector. The connected series can comprise a line of adjacent octave modules. The connected series can also comprise two interconnected lines of adjacent octaves, where one line is raised above and connected behind the other connected series in a staggered configuration. The communication network between the connected modules comprises a series of communication lines that allow the octave modules to communicate key press information to the power module, while also being able to join and leave the network in any order.

[0023] According to a second broad aspect, the present invention provides an electric piano that can change states, from a raised play state to a retracted state. When the MMSSEP is in the play state, the octave modules of the exemplary MMSSEP provide keys that resemble a standard acoustic piano. When the MMSSEP enters the retracted state, a set of the octave module's keys lower. This set of keys can either be the octave's five black keys, or all of the white and black keys belonging to that octave module. This reduces the octave modules' clearance, thus optimizing the octave modules to be stacked vertically on top of each other .

[0024] According to a third broad aspect, the present invention provides a key comprising a weighted hammer that can move under a key in a modular multi-state stackable electric piano (MMSSEP) . When a key moves down, it pulls or pushes a hammer that pivots and slams into a dampening pad, simulating a piano hammer hitting a string. When the MMSSEP is in the play state, the exemplary MMSSEP provides

substantial clearance for a hammer comprised in the

exemplary MMSSEP to move beneath a key when the key is pressed. When the MMSSEP enters the retracted state, a set of the octave module's keys lower. When the group of keys lower, the hinge holding the key also lowers, such that the key remains parallel to the playing surface as it lowers. As the keys move down, the hammers shift and are locked in place. This reduces the octave modules' clearance, thus optimizing the octave modules to be stacked vertically on top of each other. Additionally, it stops the hammers from wiggling, eliminating any noise or discomfort during transport .

[0025] Other details of the modular electric piano are set forth in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals depict like elements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and constitute part of this specification,

illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention, and, together with the general description given above and the detailed description given below, serve to explain the features of the invention.

[0027] FIG. 1 is an image illustrating four octave modules and a power module connected in a staggered

configuration according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 2 is an illustration of a white key and black in an MMSSEP implementing different retraction methodologies according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 3 is an illustration that shows exemplary keys of an MMSSEP implementing an improved hammer action called compound hammer technology in various states according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 4 is an illustration that shows an exemplary single key of an MMSSEP implementing a second improved HAT in various states according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 5 is an image illustrating four octave modules, a power module, and an accessory module stacked vertically according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 6 is an image illustrating multiple folding stand adapters according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] Fig 7. is a rear view of a simplified embodiment of an MMSSEP in standard configuration that implements an Embedded Crossbar System according to an exemplary

embodiment . [0034] Fig. 8 is an illustration that shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a TLIC System

according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Where the definition of terms departs from the commonly used meaning of the term, applicant intends to utilize the definitions provided below, unless specifically indicated .

[0036] For purposes of the present invention, it should be noted that the singular forms, "a," "an" and "the" include reference to the plural unless the context as herein presented clearly indicates otherwise.

[0037] For purposes of the present invention,

directional terms such as "top," "bottom," "upper,"

"lower," "above," "below," "left," "right," "horizontal," "vertical," "up," "down," etc., are used merely for

convenience in describing the various embodiments of the present invention. The embodiments of the present invention may be oriented in various ways. For example, the diagrams, apparatuses, etc., shown in the drawing figures may be flipped over, rotated by 90° in any direction, reversed, etc .

[0038] For purposes of the present invention, the term "accessory modules" refers to any module that is not an octave module or power module, but provides an additional service to connected MMSSEP, such as a stand adapter.

[0039] For purposes of the present invention, the term "address" refers to the software defined name that a new octave module acquires when it joins a connected series. The power module will receive data from an octave module after calling this name out to the network. [0040] For purposes of the present invention, the term "comprising, " the term "having, " and the term "including" are intended to be open-ended and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.

[0041] For purposes of the present invention, the term

"connected series" refers to a connection comprising a plurality of octave modules connected to each other in a line, the connection also allows for the connection of other peripherals, such as DJ switch pads, analog

synthesizers, solar panel chargers, extra batteries, or any extra control wheels, knobs, or buttons.

[0042] For purposes of the present invention, the term

"full length piano" refers to a standard maximally sized piano containing 88 keys. The term may also refer to other standard key quantity values, such as 49 and 61 key pianos.

[0043] For purposes of the present invention, the term "key velocity" refers to the speed at which a key moves that are converted to the volume a user wishes to express.

[0044] For purposes of the present invention, the term

"keyboard" refers to an electric piano keyboard having a plurality of keys that trigger software defined signals that can generate sounds that mimic an acoustic piano instrument or other instruments.

[0045] For purposes of the present invention, the term

"microcontroller" refers to a computer in a single

integrated circuit which is programmed to perform a series of tasks for one specific application. It contains memory, input and outputs ports, and a central processing unit similar to those of a computer.

[0046] For purposes of the present invention, the term "modular" refers to an adjective meaning consisting of smaller parts that combine to form a complete system. [0047] For purposes of the present invention, the term

"playing surface" refers to any surface or object that the MMSSEP rests on while the user is interacting with it. The playing surface can be a table, a piano stand, a piano stand adapter, or the user's lap.

[0048] For purposes of the present invention, the term "retractable keys" refers any set of piano keys that are lowered or raised by the user when the octave module transitions from play state to the retracted state or the retracted state to the play state, respectively.

[0049] For purposes of the present invention, the term "staggered configuration" refers to the configuration of two connected series stacked in an organ-like

configuration. In this configuration, a front connected series is beneath and in front of a rear connected series, wherein the front octave modules are lower octave modules and the rear octave module are raised octave modules.

[0050] Embodiments of the present invention provide a modular multi-state stackable electric piano (hereinafter, "MMSSEP") . The MMSSEP provides users with an authentic haptic grand piano experience, while also being highly portable, reconfigurable, and durable.

[0051] The MMSSEP solves an important social-musical issue. Currently, there are portable pianos that are light weight but do not accurately mimic the haptics of a true grand piano. Meanwhile, there are electric pianos that do successfully simulate the feel of a grand piano, yet contain bouncy weights, and are too large and heavy to be considered portable. These aforementioned pianos are usually housed in large rectangles, which are bulky and unappealing to an everyday, mobile musician. These

aforementioned pianos are also usually unchangeable in their physical form and cannot adapt to a piano player whose performance desires change constantly. Unlike these aforementioned pianos, the MMSSEP brings the feel of a grand piano into a highly portable electric device that can fit into a standard travel bag. Particularly, with the modularity and the ability to transform states, the MMSSEP gives a user the ability to reconfigure the piano's octaves and sounds quickly and easily.

[0052] With traditional pianos, if a piano player wants to upgrade their device's sounds, samples, or

functionality, the player would need to purchase a whole new electric piano. With the MMSSEP, the user can simply upgrade his or her power module and keep the same octave modules. This not only saves the user money, but also allows for more flexibility, as the user can interchange different power modules for different functionalities during shows or rehearsals. Finally, the modularity makes the product more environmentally sustainable, since users can trade or dispose of single modules rather than entire full-length pianos.

[0053] In addition, unlike other existing portable electric pianos, the multi-state functionality of the

MMSSEP provides an ability to protect the keys during storage. Existing electric pianos do not change states leaving their keys vulnerable. Since a key in such existing electric pianos is usually hinged at one end, the other end is open to hazardous, unwanted, upward motion of the key; particularly, unwanted forces that push the key past its natural state could break the key or eject it from its appropriate position. Differently, in a MMSSEP, the

MMSSEP's keys can sink into a retracted, protected state. Thus, the MMSSEP can be optimized to be quickly stowed and removed from a carrying case, while protecting itself from key ejection or damage.

Modularity

[0054] FIG. 1 is an image illustrating an exemplary

MMSSEP according to an exemplary embodiment. An exemplary MMSSEP may comprise a power module and one or more octave modules. Each octave module contains a group of white and black piano keys. For example, in FIG. 1, an octave module 100 is shown representing one full octave of a piano. In this embodiment, the octave module 100 comprises seven white keys 102, five black keys 106, an inter-octave connector 120, a dashboard 104, a front connector 108, a rear connector (not shown), and a fold-out leg 130. The seven white keys 102 and five black keys 106 may range from the musical note C to the higher-pitch musical note B. The seven white keys 102 and five black keys 106 may also span any musical range of 12 keys. A plurality of octave modules can be connected in series to form a connected series 110. The plurality of octave modules 100 may be connected together magnetically or through different connectors, called "inter-octave connectors." The octave modules 100 can be connected to and disconnected from a connected series individually or in groups with other octave modules via the inter-octave connector 120. The inter-octave connector 120 can be used to transmit power and data between octave modules and a power module 112 in an MMSSEP. The power module acts a central processor and router for turning the users playing into analog and/or digital signals. A connected series may comprise one to eight octave modules, including 12 to 96 keys, or may contain other numbers of octave module including other numbers of keys. For example, one octave module could embody two or three octaves of piano keys.

[0055] Not only octave modules or power modules can be added to a connected series. Some implementations of

MMSSEP's may also allow for the connection of other

peripherals or "accessory modules", such as DJ key pads, analog synthesizers, solar panel chargers, extra batteries, multiple power modules, or any extra control wheels, knobs, or buttons that are compatible with the MMSSEP

electromechanical connectors.

Staggered Stacking

[0056] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment where octave modules 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 are stacked in a staggered manner. This configuration is called a "staggered

configuration". In a staggered configuration, two rows of octave modules 100 create two connected series' 110 that are electrically linked and mechanically stacked. This configuration is analogous to an organ. FIG. 1 is a

perspective view of an MMSSEP in staggered configuration. In FIG. 1, octave modules 1001 and 1002 are connected to form a rear connected series 1101. Additionally, octave modules 1003 and 1004 are connected to form a front

connected series 1102. The rear connected series 1101 is placed on top of and behind the front connected series 1102 in a staggered manner. A fold-out leg 130 resides in the underside of the octave module 100. This leg can be rotated outwards to provide support to the octave module it belongs to, when that octave module is connected to a rear

connected series 1101. A fold-out leg 130 in the embedded position when it is not being used is illustrated by the octave modules in the front connected series 1102 but is not explicitly shown. [0057] The rear octave modules are further supported in the front by a front connector 108 that protrudes from the octave module front face 116. The front connector 108 can be a bracket or protrusion and can fold away into the octave module front face 116 when not being used. The front connector 108 connects mechanically and electrically to the rear connector 118 of the octave in front and beneath of it. The rear connector (not shown) can be a bracket or protrusion on the rear of the octave module and can fold away into the octave module rear face 122 when not being used. Just as the inter-octave connector 120 provides mechanical and electrical connection between octaves in a connected series, so do the front connector 108 and rear connector 118 of the octave module.

[0058] While a staggered configuration is useful, possibly a more common use of the MMSSEP will be one row consisting of a single connected series 110 that can be played on the user's lap, table, or piano stand. This configuration is called a "standard configuration."

Power Module

[0059] According to the embodiments, the octave modules 100 can connect to a power module 112. The power module 112 can connect to either the leftmost connected octave module in a connected series, the rightmost connected octave module in a connected series, or between any octave modules in a connected series. These connections can be made via the octave module's inter-octave connector 120 or via a connection cable (not shown) . In one embodiment, the octave modules are passive and the power module provides power to all of the octaves in the connected series via an on-board battery or by connecting to an electrical outlet. In another embodiment, the octaves have their own on-board battery power, and thus the power module does not deliver power to the octave modules in the connected series. The one or more octave modules connected to the power module send key press information to the power module through a communication network. The power module can orchestrate this network in order to collect the key press data and user input data from the connected octave modules. It can then generate musical notes and route the sounds or digital note information via a Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) port or an analog signal port to headphones, an amp, or an instrument, synthesizer, computer, or mobile device. The power module can also have its own on-board speaker 124 for outputting sound. The user can interact with the power module through various buttons, sliders, knobs, touch screens, or pads in order to change user configuration settings and performance settings such as master volume, modulation, pitch bending, or synthesizer selection.

Multi-State Technology

[0060] When stowing the piano, the user has the ability to change the piano's state from a raised "play state" to a retracted "retracted state." The retracted state

significantly reduces the overall height of the octave module. Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of a white key 102 and a black key 106 in an MMSSEP. The figure shows three state-changing, retraction methodologies an MMSSEP can embody. All MMSSEP 's implement a play state 200. The three retraction methodologies an MMSSEP can achieve to

transition into the retracted state are called "full- retraction", "half-flat-retraction," and "full-flat- retraction". In the full-retraction methodology 202, all of the keys (102 and 106) of the octave module retract the same distance when the device transitions into the retracted state. In the half-flat-retraction methodology 204, only the black keys 106 of the octave module retract when the device transitions into the retracted state. The retraction is complete when the tops of the black keys 106 are flush, or flat, with the tops of the white keys 102. In the full-flat-retraction embodiment 206, all of the keys (102 and 106) of the octave module retract, however the black keys 106 retract a further distance. For this embodiment, the transition to the retracted state is complete when the white keys 102 are lowered, and the black keys 106 are lowered until the tops of the black keys 106 are flush, or flat, with the tops of the now lowered white keys 102. For all MMSSEP's, the keys that experience retraction during a state-change are called "retractable keys . "

[0061] In the octave module, each key has a key holder.

The key holder holds its key via a key joint. The keys pivot about these key joints when they are played by the user. In an MMSSEP, these key holders can move up or down via a lift mechanism. For an MMSSEP achieving full- retraction 202 or full-flat-retraction 206, the white key holders and the black key holders both lower down towards a base plate 208 when the device transitions into the

retracted state. For an MMSSEP achieving half-flat- retraction 204, only the black key holders lower down towards the base plate 208, while the white key holders remain fixed. As the key holders move down, the keys they hold move down with them, remaining parallel to the playing surface. In most MMSSEP's, it is desired to mechanically couple the dashboard to the black key holders. It is also desired to ensure that the tops of the black keys are flush with the top of the dashboard. If this condition is met, the entire octave module will be completely flat after the octave module undergoes a half-flat retraction 204 or a full-flat retraction 206.

[0062] In one embodiment, when the octave modules are in the play state, the user can compress the octave module by pressing a button or pressing on the retractable keys which activates an electromechanical system to drive the

retraction system downwards. In another embodiment, the user simply pushes down on the retractable keys and the dashboard to change the octave module to its retracted state. In another embodiment, the user must press a button or slide a latch that unlocks the retractable keys from their position in the play state, so that the user may press down to retract the octave module.

[0063] When the user is ready to play again, a number of electromechanical or mechanical methods can be used to raise the retractable keys on the octave module into the play state 200. One embodiment of a lift system 210 could be a set of servomotors or linear actuators, which are coupled to the retractable key's key holders and can raise the retractable keys up when the octave module receives power from the power module. In another embodiment, a set of servomotors rotate a flap that pushes up on the

retractable keys' respective key holders, causing that key holder to rise. Another lift system embodiment could be a spring that can use a dampener to slow the rising movement. This spring-driven system requires various latches to hold the device in either the retracted state or the play state. These latches can be pressed or slid by the user to

transition states.

Hammer-Action Technology [0064] Hammer-Action Technology (hereinafter, "HAT") is applied in some existing electric pianos to mimic the haptic experience of a grand piano. HAT works by coupling weighted hinged hammers to each of a piano's keys. These hammers swing upwards when the user presses a key

downwards. When the user releases his or her finger, gravity pulls the hammer back down, and the key rises back up. As to date, traditional HAT occupies considerable space. This is mainly due to the large movement the hammer swings during a key play. In addition, the weighted hammers are not secured during transport and wiggle around when the piano is moved. When transporting a piano that uses HAT, the loose weighted hammers inside the piano swing back and forth noisily as the piano moves, providing the user discomfort both physically and audibly. Therefore, although a traditional HAT piano successfully mimics the haptic experience of a grand piano, it is not optimized for portability, and particularly, it is undesirable for a low- clearance, MMSSEP that must retract and stack.

[0065] A hammer-action MMSSEP is an MMSSEP that

implements HAT in an improved way, due to its ability to change states. Different from traditional HAT, the improved HAT adopted in a hammer-action MMSSEP not only is able to successfully mimic the haptic experience of a grand piano, but also is optimized for portability.

[0066] Fig. 3 shows exemplary keys of an MMSSEP

implementing an improved HAT embodiment called, "Compound Hammer Technology" or "CHT." The figure shows CHT in the play state 300, in the play state with a key depressed 302, and in the retracted state 304. In this embodiment, a hammer holder 306 is fixed to the base plate 308. When the MMSSEP is in the play state 300 and 302 and a user presses or plays the piano key 314, the intermediate hammer 312 pivots about the hammer holder 306. As it pivots, it lifts the main hammer 324 at the interaction point 332, causing the main hammer to pivot about the main hammer joint 334 until it slams into the hammer stopper 316, providing the haptic feedback to the piano player. When the piano player releases his or her finger, the main hammer 324 pivots back to its resting position due to gravity, which forces the intermediate hammer 312 to pivot back to its starting position. This pushes the piano key 314 back to its

starting position, providing haptic feedback to the user. CHT improves tradition HAT because it allows for the main hammer 324 to be longer than traditional hammers in the same given space, providing more mechanical advantage to the key. Additionally, it allows for the HAT to be

implemented in low-clearance spaces directly underneath the piano key, which is ideal for an MMSSEP.

[0067] Both MMSSEP and traditional electric pianos can implement CHT. For an MMSSEP implementing CHT, when the piano transitions into the retracted state 304, the piano key 314 and respective key holder 318 move downwards. As a result, the intermediate hammer 312 pivots, forcing the main hammer 324 into the hammer stopper 316 just as it would during key play. For an MMSSEP implementing half-flat retraction, only the black keys 310 will retract. In this case, a hammer-pinching tab 320 is coupled to the key holder 318 that belongs to the black key 310. Additionally, in this case, the white key's main hammer 328 will remain flat against the base plate 308 while the black key 310 retracts. As the black key's key holder 318 finishes retracting downwards, the hammer-pinching tab 320 slides past the black key main hammer 326 but pinches the white key's main hammer 328 against the base plate 308, preventing both the white key 322 and its main hammer 328 from moving. At this point, the device is fully retracted; the white key's main hammers 328 are pinched against the base plate 308, and the black key's main hammers 326 are pinched against the hammer stopper 316. All of the hammers are locked in place and cannot move, vibrate, or swing until the piano re-enters the play state. Thus, the

unwanted hammer movement during transportation is

eliminated. Note that for this to work, the piano key 314 may need to straddle the hammer stopper 316 and the piano keys 314 may need an under-key cavity 330 in order to prevent the main hammer 324 from hitting the bottom of the piano key 314.

[0068] Fig. 4 shows an exemplary single key of an MMSSEP implementing a second improved HAT in the play state 400, in the play state with a key depressed 402, and in the retracted state 404. In this embodiment, a hammer holder 406 is mounted onto a hammer holder track 422 that is fixed to the base plate 408. When the MMSSEP is in the play state 400 and a user presses or plays the key 410, the hammer 412 pivots about the hammer holder 406 until it slams into the hammer stopper 416, providing the haptic feedback to the piano player. Due to the angled nature of the key slot 424, the hammer only can rotate about its initial playing joint 426. When the piano player releases his or her finger, the hammer 412 pivots back to its resting position due to gravity, also providing haptic feedback to the piano player. This is similar to the workings of traditional HAT. When the piano transitions into the retracted state 404, the piano key 410 and key holder 418 slide downwards. As a result, since the hammer 412 is confined to the key slot 424 and the track 422, the hammer holder 406 slides laterally until it is stopped by the rear track stopper 428. At this point, the device is fully retracted and the hammers are locked in place and cannot move, vibrate, or swing until the piano re-enters the play state 400. Thus, the unwanted hammer movement during transportation is eliminated. When transitioning back into the play state, the key 410 and key holder 418 will slide laterally in the other direction until the hammer holder 406 is stopped by the front track stopper 430. A spring may be connected between the rear track stopper 428 or the front track stopper 430 and the hammer holder 406 to stop the hammer holder from unintentionally sliding when the device is in the play state. For a full-flat retraction MMSSEP, the black key will retract a further distance than the white key. Thus, the black key's hammer holder will sit on a longer track 422, and the black key's key slot 424 will be longer .

Vertical Stacking

[0069] According to the embodiments, the octave modules and power or accessory modules of an exemplary MMSSEP can be further disconnected and stacked directly on top of one another for highly portable transportation. This is shown in Fig. 5. When stacked, the exemplary MMSSEP is able to fit inside a standard backpack. For MMSSEP 's that implement full-flat or half-flat retraction, octave modules 500 in the retracted state are optimized for vertical stacking, since the tops of the keys 502 and dashboard 504 will all be flush and flat. This allows additional sets of octave modules, power modules 512, or accessory modules 514 to securely stack on top of the octave module 500. An MMSSEP that implements full-retraction can also be stacked vertically. In this case, the underside of any module can contain intrusions and extrusions that match the profile of the octave module black and white keys, allowing it to rest flush and securely on top of the octave module stack.

Mechanical Stability for Stand Play

[0070] The inter-octave connectors alone may provide limited stability from the downward force the piano player applies to the MMSSEP keys, especially when the device is being played on a traditional electric piano stand 600, shown in Fig. 6. In this case, mechanical stability

technologies can be implemented in or alongside the MMSSEP, in order to prevent octave modules in a connected series from collapsing apart when they are played on a stand.

These mechanical stability technologies are: A Folding Stand Adapter, an Embedded Crossbar System, or a Twist and Lock Inter-Octave Connector (henceforth, "TLIC") .

[0071] Fig. 6 shows multiple Folding Stand Adapters.

Folding Stand Adapters consist of beam modules 604 that are hinged together at protruding beam joints 606 to form a stand-adapter-group 608. To play the MMSSEP on a

traditional piano stand 600, these beam modules 604 can be expanded outwards into a straight line and one or many stand-adapter-groups 608 can be placed atop a traditional piano stand 600. Then, a connected series of octave modules (not shown) can be placed atop the stand-adapter-group, such that the stand-adapter-group can provide support underneath the connected series of octave modules.

Typically, two stand-adapter-groups 608 will be used for one MMSSEP, to provide support in the front and rear of the octave module. When done playing, the user can fold the beam modules 604 back together. The beam modules 604 are designed to be directly parallel and touching when folded, because of the protruding beam joints 606. If the beam modules are the same length as the octave module, a folded stand-adapter-group can occupy the same surface area as an octave module. This folded stand-adapter-group 608 can then be treated as a single accessory module 514 and be added to a vertical stack of octave modules. While Fig. 6 shows two stand-adapter groups 608 consisting of four beam modules each, more beam modules can be added to support longer pianos. Additionally, in other embodiments, the outer two beam modules, 6042 and 6044, can contain a concentric inner beam 610 that can extend out to reach the traditional piano stand 600 regardless of the size of the traditional piano stand .

[0072] Fig. 7 is a rear view of a simplified embodiment of an MMSSEP in standard configuration that implements an Embedded Crossbar System. This system allows an MMSSEP to be played on a stand (such as a traditional piano stand

600), or any other surface, without the need of an external stand adapter or supporting device. In this embodiment, each octave module 700 houses on its rear face 718 a crossbar beam 702 made out of a light-weight sturdy

material such as aluminum. The crossbar beam 702 occupies the whole width 704 of the octave module rear face 718. The crossbar beam 702 sits in a crossbar beam track 706 that allows the crossbar beam 702 to only slide in the lateral direction 798. The crossbar beam 702 can contain a slot or protrusion in it to maintain the sliding joint inside the crossbar beam track 706. The power module 712 does not contain a crossbar beam, but instead has an empty crossbar beam track 706 running its entire width. When forming a connected series, a user may simply slide each octave module's 700 crossbar beam 702 over into the crossbar beam track 706 of an adjacent module. In general, each crossbar beam 702 should be slid in the direction of the power module. When an octave module's crossbar beam 702 slides over into the adjacent module in direction the lateral direction 798, this frees up a space on the octave module's crossbar beam track 706 on the side opposite to the

direction the user slid the crossbar beam 702. The user can then slide over the crossbar beam of the adjacent octave module 700 to the fill that space in the crossbar beam track 706 of the next octave module 700 and continue to do so for every module in the connected series. Once each crossbar beam 702 is slid over, the strong mechanical support from the crossbar prevents the octaves from

collapsing downwards towards the play surface or floor. To stow the device, the user simply slides the crossbar beams 702 back into their respective octave modules 700. The octave modules are now disconnected and can be stacked vertically .

[0073] Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a TLIC System. In this embodiment, the male connector 802 on the right side of the octave module 800 consists of two prongs, henceforth referred to as prong 1 804 and prong 2 806. It also can consist of a threaded protrusion 816. The female connector 818 on the left side of the octave module 800 consists of two prong holes, referred to as prong hole 1 808 and prong hole 2 810 as well as two prong slots, referred to as prong slot 1 812 and prong slot 2 814. It also consists of a threaded cavity 820, with the same threading as the threaded protrusion 816. In order to connect octave module A 8002 with octave module B 8004, the user first rotates octave module A 8002 about axis X 822 until octave module A's prong 1 804 and prong 2 806 are lined up with octave module B's prong hole 1 808 and prong hole 2 810, respectively. The user then can slide octave module A 8002 and octave module B 8004 towards each other until the prongs 804 and 806 of octave module A 8002 are inside the prong holes 808 and 810 of octave module B 8004, and the threaded protrusion 816 of octave module A 8002 is touching the threaded cavity 820 of octave module B 8004. At this point, the user can rotate octave module A 8002 about the X axis 822 back to its initial flat position. As octave module A 8002 rotates back to its initial position, its threaded protrusion 816 screws tightly into the

threaded cavity 820 of octave module B 8004. Additionally, during this time, the prongs 804 and 806 of octave module A 8002 slide within the prong slots 812 and 814 of octave module B 8004, until they reach the end of the prong slots. At this point, the two octaves 8002 and 8004 are securely connected to each other. This process can be completed for each octave module or set of connected octave modules in a connected series. To disconnect the octave modules, the user can simply twist the octave modules in opposite directions, undoing the threading and releasing the prongs from the prong holes. Fig. 8B shows a side view of the prongs 804 and 806. Note that TLIC can work with solely the threaded extrusion and intrusion and does not need the prongs in order to function. Additionally, if the prongs are conductive, they can be used to send or receive power or communication signals. Other electrical connectors can be placed in the center of the threaded extrusion and intrusion, if needed.

[0074] In some embodiments, the MMSSEP can be used on top of a table or the user's lap, instead of a piano stand. In this case, all of the stability is provided by the table or lap, and none of the advanced mechanical connections or stand adapters are necessary.

Key Detection

[0075] In one embodiment of the MMSSEP, two or three conductors make or break contact with a circuit board at varying times during the key's travel downwards as it is played. A microcontroller onboard these traditional

electric pianos then measures the time difference between the switch closings or openings and converts this time difference to a key velocity. In additional embodiments, the MMSSEP can include capacitive touch sensors underneath the keys, giving the user more control of the sound. An exemplary application could be a pitch bending of the sound when a user slides his or her finger up or down on the key. Communication Network

[0076] According to the embodiments of the present invention, each octave module in the MMSSEP detects its own key presses, key velocities and expressions, performs the speed-to-volume conversion, and transmits both the note played and the velocity at which the note is played to the power module through a communication network. The

communication network also allows octave modules to join and leave the network in any order. This means each octave module can be electrically and mechanically identical and redundant. The communication network also allows each octave module to own any musical octave note range, so the user can fully customize the order and configuration of the octave modules in front of him or her. In some embodiments, the communication network between the power module and the octave modules is a wired or wireless standard serial network such as SPI, I2C, or CAN Bus. [0077] In one embodiment, each octave module can

immediately detect what octave module number it is, even after being disconnected, re-arranged, and reconnected at a different location in a connected series. In order to accomplish this, the power module's microcontroller keeps a running counter of how many octave module microcontrollers are connected. When the power module receives an unknown signal from a newly connected octave module joining the network, it assigns the newly connected octave module a unique address and updates its counter of connected octave modules. It now can reference this octave module by this assigned, unique address. When the power module no longer gets a response from the octave module at that address after a short period of time, it can assume that the octave module with that address and all proceeding octave modules in the connected series have been disconnected. It then can update the running counter of connected octave modules and continue orchestrating the network.

[0078] There has been provided a modular electric piano. While the modular electric piano has been described in the context of specific embodiments thereof, other unforeseen alternatives, modifications, and variations may become apparent to those skilled in the art having read the foregoing description. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace those alternatives, modifications, and variations which fall within the broad scope of the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A modular electric piano comprising:

a power module;

at least one octave module coupled to said power module, said octave module comprising a group of

retractable white and black piano keys; an inter-octave connector configured to couple said at least one octave module to another octave module;

a key holder coupled to each of said retractable keys in said group of retractable white and black piano keys, said key holder comprising a lift mechanism configured to raise and lower said key holder relative to a base plate; a weighted hammer coupled to each of said retractable keys in said group of retractable white and black piano keys .

2. The modular electric piano according to claim 1, wherein said octave module comprises a full octave of a piano .

3. The modular electric piano according to claim 1, wherein said at least one octave module is configured in at least one of a connected series, a staggered configuration and a standard configuration.

4. The modular electric piano according to claim 1, wherein said key holder comprises a key joint configured to allow said retractable keys to pivot.

5. The modular electric piano according to claim 1, further comprising: a hammer-pinching tab coupled to said key holder, wherein said hammer-pinching tab is configured to pinch said hammer against said base plate.

6. The modular electric piano according to claim 1, further comprising:

a hammer holder slidably mounted onto a hammer holder track between a front track stopper and a rear track stopper formed in said base plate, wherein said hammer holder is configured to pivotably support said weighted hammer confined in a key slot.

7. The modular electric piano according to claim 1, further comprising:

at least one folding stand adapter comprising a set of beam modules hinged at protruding beam joints forming a stand-adapter group configured to support the modular electric piano, said at least one folding stand adapter configured foldable to a surface area equal to a surface area of said octave module.

8. A modular multi-state stackable electric piano

comprising :

a power module coupled to at least one octave module configurable between a play state and a retracted/transport state ;

said at least one octave module comprising at least one inter-octave connector, said at least one inter-octave connector configured to removably couple with another octave module in a series of octave modules;

said at least one octave module configured stackable with said another octave module; and said at least one octave module comprising a weighted hammer operably coupled to a key, said weighted hammer configured to move under said key and lock in place.

9. The modular multi-state stackable electric piano to claim 8, wherein said series of octave modules comprises a line of adjacent octave modules.

10. The modular multi-state stackable electric piano according to claim 8, wherein said series of octave modules comprises two interconnected lines of adjacent octave modules, wherein a first line of adjacent octave modules is raised above and connected behind a second line of adjacent octave modules in a staggered configuration.

11. The modular multi-state stackable electric piano according to claim 8, further comprising:

a communication network configured between said series of adjacent octave modules; said communication network comprising a series of communication lines configured to allow said octave modules to communicate key press

information to said power module and configured to

facilitate said octave module to couple or decouple from said series of adjacent octave modules.

12. The modular multi-state stackable electric piano according to claim 8, wherein said play state comprises said key being raised and said weighted hammer being movable beneath said key.

13. The modular multi-state stackable electric piano according to claim 8, wherein said retracted/transport state comprises said key lowers to remain parallel to a playing surface and said weighted hammer shifts into a locked position, wherein a clearance of said octave module is reduced.

14. The modular multi-state stackable electric piano according to claim 8, wherein each of said at least one octave module houses a crossbar beam in a crossbar beam track of said at least one octave module, said crossbar beam configured to slidably support said series of octave modules .

15. The modular multi-state stackable electric piano according to claim 8, wherein said at least one inter- octave connector further comprises two prongs and an associated threaded protrusion configured to couple with a corresponding female connector comprising two prong holes with slots configured to receive said two prongs and a thread cavity configured to receive said threaded

protrusion, wherein said two prongs and threaded protrusion are rotatably insertably interlocked with said respective female connector prong holes and threaded cavity.

16. The modular multi-state stackable electric piano according to claim 8, wherein said key comprises a

capacitive touch sensor configured to provide an after- touch control of sound.

17. The modular multi-state stackable electric piano according to claim 11, wherein said communication network is configured to allow each of said at least one octave module to own any musical octave note range, so as to configure the order and configuration of each of said at least one octave module.

18. The modular multi-state stackable electric piano according to claim 11, wherein said communication network is configured to allow for each of said at least one octave module to couple and decouple from said series of octave modules in any order, wherein each of said at least one octave module is configured electrically and mechanically identical and redundant.

19. The modular multi-state stackable electric piano according to claim 11, wherein said power module is configured to allow for each of said at least one octave module to identify with an octave module number, responsive to at least one of being disconnected, re-arranged, and reconnected at a different location in said series of octave modules.