Tremolo spring and stabilizer tuner

Abstract

The Stabilizer Tuner adjustably supports a formed spring or a pre-loaded coil spring element operable to hold a variable force of tension to enforce initial position. The Tremolo Stabilizer includes a thumbwheel arrangement to variably adjust the position of an independent stabilizer arrangement. Tremolo Spring Tuner includes a pre-loaded coil spring element or formed flat spring operable to exert a first variable force of tension to contact the body with the capacity to variably support the pivoting of tremolo under the variable force of the string tension; the first force of tension is essentially equal to the force of tension provided by the strings to establish the fulcrum tremolo at initial position.

Claims

1. A fulcrum tremolo for a stringed musical instrument, the stringed musical instrument comprising a body, the body further comprising a top surface and a back surface, the top surface generally parallel to the back surface, a plurality of strings extending in a direction from the body to the neck, the top surface and the back surfaces extending in the direction of the plurality of strings, a neck extending outwardly from the body, the neck further comprising a head, the head operable to variably secure each of the plurality of strings, a nut to form a first critical point for each of the plurality strings, a bridge element forming a second critical point for supporting each associated string of the plurality of strings on the top surface of the body and a tailpiece for securing a plurality of strings to the body, the bridge element adjustably secured to the body for intonating the associated string, each of the plurality of strings intonated collectively comprising harmonic tuning, a tailpiece element, the tailpiece element further securing the plurality of strings to the body, each associated string of the plurality of strings operable to be tensioned to pitch for play, strings tensioned for play comprises string force of tension, strings tensioned for play comprising harmonic tuning, a fulcrum tremolo, the fulcrum tremolo pivotally mounted on the body for pivotally supporting the plurality of strings, the fulcrum tremolo comprising a tremolo pivot axis, the body further comprising a cavity formed to receive a fulcrum tremolo, the cavity further comprising a tremolo pocket, the tremolo pocket extending from the top surface to the back surface, the tremolo pocket comprising at least one face, the at least one face generally perpendicular to the top surface of the body, the at least one face transverse the direction of the plurality of strings, the tremolo pocket to allow the spring block to pivot freely, the cavity further comprising a tremolo spring pocket, the spring pocket formed in the back of the body to receive the biasing element, the fulcrum tremolo operable to be pivoted rearward to increase tension and pitch of each of the plurality of strings, and forward to decrease tension and pitch of each of strings, the fulcrum tremolo further comprising an apparatus, the apparatus secured to the fulcrum tremolo and moveable therewith around the pivot axis, the fulcrum tremolo operable to pivot freely within the body cavity, the fulcrum tremolo comprising: a base plate comprising: a first side furthest the body, a second side closer the body, a spring block, the spring block secured to, and moveable therewith, the fulcrum tremolo base plate, a first opening further comprising a threaded opening, the apparatus further comprising: a formed flat spring element, the formed flat spring element comprising a upper leg, the upper leg variably attached to the spring block, a lower leg, the lower leg extending in the direction of the strings, at least a portion of the formed flat spring comprising at least a portion of a flexible bend, the formed flat spring element operable to hold a variable force of tension against at least one face at initial position, the lower leg in first variable contact with the body, the at least one face further comprising a tremolo pocket contact area, the adjustment element free end operable to contact the tremolo pocket contact area, wherein the fulcrum tremolo at initial position, strings tensioned for play, the apparatus to limit one direction of pivoting.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein: the spring block further comprising a base element, the base element generally perpendicular to the base plate second side, the base element comprising: a connecting end, the connecting end closest the base plate, a supporting end, the support end furthest the base plate, the support end comprising the first opening, a holder element, the holder element comprising a second opening, the second opening aligned to the first opening, the holder element transverse the direction of the strings, the holder element variably connected to the supporting end, the holder element further comprising: an extended portion, the extended portion transverse the direction of the strings extending from the biasing end in the direction of the second side, the extended portion operable to make initial contact with the tremolo pocket contact area at initial position, a thumbwheel element, the thumbwheel element comprising an elongated threaded portion, the thumbwheel element threadedly connected to the holder element second opening, wherein threading the thumbwheel element adjusts the extended portion to make variable initial contact with the tremolo pocket contact area to limit pivoting in one direction.

3. Apparatus of claim 1 wherein a biasing element, the biasing element comprising a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the fulcrum tremolo and the second end variably secured to the body, the biasing element operable to hold a first variable force of tension, the shaped flat spring element operable to hold a second variable force of tension, the base plate further comprising a base element, the base element generally perpendicular to the base plate second side, the base element comprising: a connecting end, the connecting end closest the base plate, a supporting end, the support end furthest the base plate, the support end comprising the first opening, the at least one face further comprising a tremolo pocket contact area, the tremolo pocket contact area operable to make variable contact with the shaped flat spring element free end, wherein the fulcrum tremolo at initial position, strings tensioned for play, the shaped flat spring element exerting a second variable force of tension against the at least one face to limit the first variable force of tension during rearward tilt position.

4. Apparatus of claim 1 wherein the spring block further comprises an adjustment setscrew, the adjustment setscrew threadedly connected to the spring block, the adjustment setscrew in variable contact with the lower leg of the L-shaped spring plate closer the connecting end than the supporting end, threading the adjustment setscrew is operable to further adjust the variable force of tension.

5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the formed flat spring element operable to hold a first variable force of tension, the base plate further comprising a base element, the base element generally perpendicular to the base plate second side, the base element comprising: a connecting end, the connecting end closest the base plate, a supporting end, the support end furthest the base plate, the support end comprising the first opening, a first opening further comprising a threaded opening, an adjustable stabilizer, the adjustable stabilizer comprising a tensioner housing, the tensioner housing threadedly connected to the spring block threaded opening, the tensioner housing formed to adjustably receive: a pre-loaded coil spring element, the pre-loaded coil spring element operable to hold a second force of tension, the second force of tension less than the first force of tension, a guide element, the guide element operable to variably support the pre-loaded coil spring element within the tensioner housing, an adjustable contact pin element, the adjustable contact pin element threadely connected to the guide element, the adjustable contact pin element further comprising a free end, threading the adjustable contact pin is operable to adjust initial contact with the body at initial position, threading the tensioner housing operable to adjust the pre-load of the coil spring element applied by the contact pin against the body, wherein the adjustable contact pin element making initial contact with the tremolo pocket contact area at initial position, the adjustable stabilizer element second variable force of tension limits the first variable force of tension.

6. An apparatus for a stringed musical instrument, the stringed musical instrument comprising a body, the body further comprising a top surface and a back surface, the top surface generally parallel to the back surface, a plurality of strings extending in a direction from the body to the neck, the top surface and the back surfaces extending in the direction of the strings, a neck extending outwardly from the body, the neck further comprising a head, the head operable to variably secure each of the plurality of strings, a nut to form a first critical point for each of the plurality of strings, a bridge element forming a second critical point for supporting each associated string of the plurality of strings adjustably secured to the body for intonating the associated string, each associated string of the plurality of strings intonated collectively comprising harmonic tuning, and a tailpiece for securing a plurality of strings to the body, a fulcrum tremolo pivotally mounted on the body for pivotally supporting the plurality of strings, a pivot axis for the fulcrum tremolo, the body further comprising a cavity formed to receive a fulcrum tremolo, the cavity further comprising a tremolo pocket, the tremolo pocket extending from the top surface to the back surface, the tremolo pocket comprising at least one face, the at least one face generally perpendicular to the top surface of the body, the tremolo pocket to allow the spring block to pivot freely, the cavity further comprising a tremolo spring pocket, the spring pocket formed in the back of the body to receive the biasing element, the fulcrum tremolo operable to be pivoted rearward to increase tension and pitch of each of the plurality of strings, and to be pivoted forward to decrease tension and pitch of each of the plurality of strings, each associated string of the plurality of strings operable to be tensioned to pitch for play, strings tensioned for play comprising string force of tension, the apparatus secured to the fulcrum tremolo and moveable therewith around the pivot axis, the fulcrum tremolo operable to pivot freely within the body cavity, the fulcrum tremolo comprising: a base plate comprising: a first side furthest the body, a second side closer the body, a first opening further comprising a threaded opening, a biasing element, the biasing element comprising a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the fulcrum tremolo and the second end connected to the body, the biasing element operable to hold a first force of tension, a spring block, the spring block secured to, and moveable therewith, the fulcrum tremolo base plate, the spring block operable to receive the first end of the biasing element, the apparatus comprising: a resilient spring element, the resilient spring element further comprising at least a portion of a flexible bend, the at least a portion of a flexible bend operable to hold a variable force of tension, the resilient spring element extending in a direction of the strings, at least one face further comprising a tremolo pocket contact area, the tremolo pocket contact area operable to receive variable contact from the resilient element, wherein the fulcrum tremolo at initial position, strings tensioned for play, the apparatus operable to contact the body, the apparatus operable to hold the variable force of tension against the tremolo pocket at least one face.

7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the resilient spring element at least a portion of a bend comprising a pre-loaded coil spring element, the apparatus further comprising: at least one spring tensioner element, the at least one spring tensioner element threadedly connected to the spring block threaded opening, the at least one spring tensioner element formed to adjustably receive the pre-loaded coil spring element, the at least one spring tensioner element to pre-load and adjust the force of the tension held by the pre-loaded coil spring element, the at least one spring tensioner element further formed to adjustably receive: a guide element, the guide element operable to variably support the a pre-loaded coil spring element, an adjustable contact pin element, the adjustable contact pin element threadely connected to the guide element, the adjustable contact pin element further comprising a tip, threading the adjustable contact pin element operable to adjust the tip, wherein the adjustable contact pin element operable to make initial contact with the tremolo pocket contact area at initial position.

8. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein: the spring block further comprises a base element, the base element generally perpendicular to the base plate second side, the spring block further comprising a first opening the base element comprising: a connecting end, the connecting end closest the base plate, a supporting end, the supporting end furthest the base plate, the spring block further comprising a separate holder element, the separate holder element comprising a threaded opening, the threaded opening aligned to the first opening, the separate holder element transverse the direction of the strings, the separate holder element variably connected to the supporting end and the first end, the separate holder element further comprising: a biasing end, the biasing end further the base plate, the biasing end formed to receive the first end of the biasing element, an extended portion, the extended portion transverse the direction of the strings, extending from the biasing end in the direction of the second side, the extended portion operable, the resilient spring element secured to the extended portion, a thumbwheel element, the thumbwheel element comprising an elongated threaded portion, the thumbwheel element connected to the first opening, the adjustment element threadedly connected to the holder element threaded opening, the adjustment element connected to first opening, threading the adjustment element adjusts the extended portion in the direction of the strings.

9. Apparatus of claim 8 wherein the variable force of tension is equal to the first force of tension.

10. Apparatus of claim 8 wherein the variable force of tension comprises a second force of tension, the second force of tension less than the first force of tension.

11. A fulcrum tremolo for a stringed musical instrument, the stringed musical instrument comprising a body, the body further comprising a top surface and a back surface, the top surface generally parallel to the back surface, a plurality of strings extending in a direction from the body to the neck, the top surface and the back surfaces extending in the direction of the strings, a neck extending outwardly from the body, the neck further comprising a head, the head operable to variably secure each of the plurality of strings, a nut to form a first critical point for each of the plurality of strings, a bridge element forming a second critical point for supporting each associated string of the plurality of strings on the top surface of the body and a tailpiece for securing a plurality of strings to the body, the bridge element adjustably secured to the body for intonating the associated string, each of the plurality of strings intonated collectively comprising harmonic tuning, a tailpiece element, the tailpiece element further securing the plurality of strings to the body, each associated string of the plurality of strings operable to be tensioned to pitch for play, strings tensioned for play comprises string force of tension, strings tensioned for play comprising harmonic tuning, a fulcrum tremolo, the fulcrum tremolo pivotally mounted on the body for pivotally supporting the plurality of strings, the fulcrum tremolo comprising a tremolo pivot axis, the body further comprising a cavity formed to receive a fulcrum tremolo, the cavity further comprising a tremolo pocket, the tremolo pocket extending from the top surface to the back surface, the tremolo pocket comprising at least one face, the at least one face generally perpendicular to the top surface of the body, the tremolo pocket to allow the spring block to pivot freely, the cavity further comprising a tremolo spring pocket, the spring pocket formed in the back of the body to receive the biasing element, the fulcrum tremolo operable to be pivoted rearward to increase tension and pitch of each of the plurality of strings, and forward to decrease tension and pitch of each of the plurality of strings, the fulcrum tremolo further comprising an apparatus, the apparatus secured to the fulcrum tremolo and moveable therewith around the pivot axis, the fulcrum tremolo operable to pivot freely within the body cavity, the fulcrum tremolo comprising: a base plate comprising: a first side furthest the body, a second side closer the body, the base plate further operable to receive the first end of the biasing element, a biasing element, the biasing element comprising a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the fulcrum tremolo and the second end operable to variably contact the body, the biasing element operable to hold a first variable force of tension, the biasing element further comprising: a shaped flat spring element, at least a portion of the shaped flat spring element comprising at least a portion of a flexible bend, the at least a portion of a flexible bend operable to hold a first variable force of tension, the shaped flat spring element further comprising a first end, the first end variably attached to the base plate, the shaped flat spring element comprising a second end, the second end further comprising curved contact bend, the shaped flat spring element operable to make contact with the body, the body face further comprising a variable contact area, the variable contact area operable to receive variable contact from the curved contact bend, wherein the fulcrum tremolo at initial position, strings tensioned for play, the resilient spring element first variable force of tension limits one direction of pivoting.

12. Apparatus of claim 9 wherein the shaped flat spring element comprises a formed L-shaped flat spring.

13. The apparatus of claim 11 wherein: a mounting element, the mounting element having a tuning face generally perpendicular to the base plate second side, the mounting element transverse the direction of the strings, the mounting element comprising: a connecting end, the connecting end closest the base plate, a supporting end, the support end furthest the base plate, the support end comprising a first opening, a spring contact tensioner element, the spring contact tensioner element comprising a second opening, the second opening aligned to the first opening, the spring contact tensioner element transverse the direction of the strings, the spring contact tensioner element variably connected to the supporting end, the spring contact tensioner element variably connected to the curved contact bend, a thumbwheel element, the thumbwheel element comprising an elongated threaded portion, the thumbwheel element threadedly connected to the spring contact tensioner element second opening, wherein threading the thumbwheel element adjusts the spring contact tensioner element to adjust the at least a portion of the flexible bend and, thereby, the first variable force of tension.

14. Apparatus of claim 13 wherein thumbwheel element comprises a global tuner arrangement, the global tuner arrangement comprising: a base element, the base element generally transverse the direction of the strings, the base element secured to the instrument, a spring tensioner element, the spring tensioner transverse the direction of the strings, the string tensioner element variably connected to the base element, the string tensioner further having a spring side surface, a global tuner thumbwheel, a global tuner thumbwheel having a thumbwheel shaft, the thumbwheel shaft in the direction of the strings, the base element supporting the a thumbwheel shaft, wherein the base element is further formed to either: 1) threadedly receive the global tuner thumbwheel, the global tuner thumbwheel shaft comprising an end, the end variably contacting the spring tensioner, the spring side surface generally parallel with the at least one face, the spring side surface in first variable contact with the curved contact bend, threading the global tuner thumbwheel is operable to adjust at least a portion of a flexible bend, Or, 2) rotatably secure the global tuner thumbwheel, a portion of the thumbwheel shaft further formed to include a cam-like portion, the cam-like portion operable to rotate with the global tuner thumbwheel element, the cylindrical cam-like portion comprising the spring side surface, the spring side surface generally transverse the direction of the first face, further, a curved second flat spring element, the curved second flat spring element comprising a first curved end and a second curved end, the cam-like spring side surface in variable contact with the first curved end, the second curved end variably secured to the tremolo, the curved second flat spring in second variable contact with the second face of the first flat spring element, rotating the global tuner thumbwheel, and, thereby, the cam-like spring side surface, is operable to adjust the curved second flat spring in second variable contact with the second face, the second variable contact closer the base plate than the first end portion, wherein turning the global tuner thumbwheel varies the first force of tension to achieve initial position.

15. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein the base plate further comprising a base element, the base element generally perpendicular to the base plate second side, the base element comprising: a connecting end, the connecting end closest the base plate, a supporting end, the support end furthest the base plate, the support end comprising the first opening, wherein the spring block first opening further comprising a threaded opening, an adjustable stabilizer, the adjustable stabilizer comprising a tensioner housing, the tensioner housing threadedly connected to the spring block threaded opening, the tensioner housing formed to adjustably receive: a pre-loaded coil spring element, the pre-loaded coil spring element operable to hold a variable force of tension, a guide element, the guide element operable to variably support the pre-loaded coil spring element within the tensioner housing, an adjustable contact pin element, the adjustable contact pin element threadely connected to the guide element, the adjustable contact pin element further comprising a free end, threading the adjustable contact pin is operable to adjust initial contact with the body at initial position, threading the tensioner housing operable to adjust the pre-load of the coil spring element applied by the contact pin against the body, wherein the adjustable contact pin element making initial contact with the tremolo pocket contact area at initial position, the adjustable stabilizer element pre-loaded variable force of tension limits the first variable force of tension.

16. Apparatus of claim 11 wherein the base plate further comprising a base element, the base element generally perpendicular to the base plate second side, the base element comprising: a connecting end, the connecting end closest the base plate, a supporting end, the support end furthest the base plate, the support end comprising the first opening, the resilient spring element comprising a shaped flat spring element, the shaped flat spring element secured to the tremolo, the resilient spring element operable to hold a second force of tension, the second force of tension less than the first force of tension, the shaped flat spring element further comprising the free end, the shaped flat spring element free end operable to make initial contact with the at least one face at initial position, the at least one face further comprising a tremolo pocket contact area, the tremolo pocket contact area operable to receive variable contact from the shaped flat spring element free end, wherein the fulcrum tremolo at initial position, strings tensioned for play, the shaped flat spring element exerting a second variable force of tension against the at least one face, the additional stabilizer element limits the first variable force of tension.

17. A fulcrum tremolo for a stringed musical instrument, the stringed musical instrument comprising a body, the body further comprising a top surface and a back surface, the top surface generally parallel to the back surface, a plurality of strings emending in a direction from the body to the neck, the top surface and the back surfaces extending in the direction of the strings, a neck extending outwardly from the body, the neck further comprising a head, the head operable to variably secure each of the plurality of strings, a nut to form a first critical point for each of the plurality strings, a bridge element forming a second critical point for supporting each associated string of the plurality of strings on the top surface of the body and a tailpiece for securing a plurality of strings to the body, the bridge element adjustably secured to the body for intonating the associated string, each of the plurality of strings intonated collectively comprising harmonic tuning, a tailpiece element, the tailpiece element further securing the plurality of strings to the body, each associated string of the plurality of strings operable to be tensioned to pitch for play, strings tensioned for play comprises string force of tension, strings tensioned for play comprising harmonic tuning, a fulcrum tremolo, the fulcrum tremolo pivotally mounted on the body for pivotally supporting the plurality of strings, the fulcrum tremolo comprising a tremolo pivot axis, the body further comprising a cavity formed to receive a fulcrum tremolo, the cavity further comprising a tremolo pocket, the tremolo pocket extending from the top surface to the back surface, the tremolo pocket comprising at least one face, the at least one face generally perpendicular to the top surface of the body, the tremolo pocket to allow the spring block to pivot freely, the cavity further comprising a tremolo spring pocket, the spring pocket formed in the back of the body to receive the biasing element, the fulcrum tremolo operable to be pivoted rearward to increase tension and pitch of each of the plurality of strings, and forward to decrease tension and pitch of each of the plurality of strings, the fulcrum tremolo further comprising an apparatus, the apparatus secured to the fulcrum tremolo and moveable therewith around the pivot axis, the fulcrum tremolo operable to pivot freely within the body cavity, the fulcrum tremolo comprising: a base plate comprising: a first side furthest the body, a second side closer the body, a biasing element, the biasing element comprising a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the fulcrum tremolo and the second end connected to the body, the biasing element operable to hold a first variable force of tension, the apparatus comprising the biasing element, the biasing element comprising a first flat spring element, the first flat spring element comprising a first flexible bend operable to provide the first variable force of tension, the first flexible bend transverse the direction of the strings and generally parallel to the tremolo axis, the first formed flat spring element having generally planar surfaces forming a first face closer to the body and a second face closer at least a portion of a tremolo, the first flat spring element comprising a first upper leg, the first upper leg secured to the tremolo, a first lower leg, the first lower leg extending to a first end portion in a direction towards the body, the first flat spring element having a first material thickness, wherein strings tensioned for play, the first variable force of tension essentially equal to string tension at initial position, at least a portion of a first face of the first end portion forming a first variable contact with the body to achieve initial position and variably support the pivoting of tremolo.

18. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein the first flat spring element comprising a first L-shape, the first L-shape comprising the first lower leg in first variable contact with the body.

19. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein at least a portion of a first face comprising a second bend, the second bend forming a first curved surface, the first curved surface operable to form the first variable contact.

20. The apparatus of claim 17 further comprising a second flat spring element, the second flat spring element comprising a second L-shape, the second flat spring element comprising a second material thickness, the second flat spring element comprising the second lower leg, the first material thickness is less than the second material thickness, the second flat spring element operable to hold a second variable force of tension, the second variable force of tension less than the first variable force of tension, wherein the first lower leg is shorter than the second lower leg, the first lower leg comprising at least the major portion of the first variable force of tension and the second lower leg augmenting the first variable force of tension to establish initial position, the second lower leg operable to comprise the first variable contact with the body.

21. Apparatus of claim 18 wherein a global tuner arrangement, the global tuner arrangement comprising: a base element, the base element generally transverse the direction of the strings, the base element secured to the instrument, a spring tensioner element, the spring tensioner transverse the direction of the strings, the string tensioner element variably connected to the base element, the string tensioner further having a spring side surface, a global tuner thumbwheel, a global tuner thumbwheel having a thumbwheel shaft, the thumbwheel shaft in the direction of the strings, the base element supporting the a thumbwheel shaft, wherein the base element is further formed to either: 1) threadedly receive the global tuner thumbwheel, the global tuner thumbwheel shaft comprising an end, the end variably contacting the spring tensioner, the spring side surface generally parallel with the first face, the spring side surface in first variable contact with the first lower leg, threading the global tuner thumbwheel is operable to adjust the spring side surface in first variable contact with lower leg, Or, 2) rotatably secure the global tuner thumbwheel, a portion of the thumbwheel shaft further formed to include a cam-like portion, the cam-like portion operable to rotate with the global tuner thumbwheel element, the cylindrical cam-like portion comprising the spring side surface, the spring side surface generally transverse the direction of the first face, further, a curved second flat spring element, the curved second flat spring element comprising a first curved end and a second curved end, the cam-like spring side surface in variable contact with the first curved end, the second curved end variably secured to the tremolo, the curved second flat spring in second variable contact with the second face of the first flat spring element, rotating the global tuner thumbwheel, and, thereby, the cam-like spring side surface, is operable to adjust the curved second flat spring in second variable contact with the second face, the second variable contact closer the base plate than the first end portion, wherein turning the global tuner thumbwheel varies the first force of tension to achieve initial position.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) In the drawings:

(2) FIG. 1 is a plan view of an electric guitar embodying the present inventions.

(3) FIG. 2 is a side view of the tremolo showing the Tremolo Spring mechanism in profile comprising an L-shaped flat spring secured to the tremolo at an upper leg and a lower leg extending to make contact with the tremolo pocket, a flexible bend operable to hold a first force of tension to replace the traditional fulcrum tremolo coil spring biasing element arrangement. The L-shaped flat spring extends about 0.125″ to 0.250″, relative to the main inertia block, further comprising an extended portion having a generally planar surface, transverse the direction of the strings, the lower leg comprising a first face closer the spring block and a second face closer to the body, the first face operable to make variable contact with the body. In this depiction, the first face making contact with a first force of tension essentially equal to the string tension, thereby resisting the rotation of the tremolo from initial position in one direction.

(4) The body further comprising a Global Tuner thumbwheel arrangement with a thumbwheel is shown rotatably connected to a mounting element secured to the body, the mounting element comprising a spring tensioner element, the spring tensioner element variably secured to the mounting element by a pin, the spring contact element comprising a spring face surface operable to make variable contact with L-shaped flat spring lower leg. In the preferred embodiment the spring tensioner element further comprises a recess to receive the tip of the shaft of the thumbwheel to variably adjust the lower leg; accordingly the thumbwheel adjustment member threading adjusts the position of a L-shaped flat spring second end to vary the first force of tension.

(5) Also shown is a locking macro-tuner mechanism comprising an articulated extended tip of extended laver-clamp improvement to facilitate threading a string through the nose slot to pivot or lift the clamp lever for successful loading of the string from a direction opposite or distinct from the traditional direction of operation carried out from the direction the tailpiece portion securing the string to the instrument.

(6) FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a first Tremolo Stabilizer embodiment configured by repurposing parts of and adding components to the Stop Tuner. A pre-tensioned compression spring-like element, supportedly positioned by the extended portion of the holder element in and between the base element and the tremolo pocket first face, is operable to exert a variable limited force at initial contact to enforce initial position. The compression spring-like element complements the biasing element to create a variable “soft” stop or Tremolo Stabilizer. Threading the adjustment element or thumbwheel in this setup is operable to variably adjust the rate of the force of the pre-tension in the context of the configuration's interdependence with force of the biasing element at initial position.

(7) FIG. 4 shows a fully independent adjustable Tremolo Stabilizer, repurposing the stop aspect of the extended portion as seen in FIG. 2 to variably support and position a tensioner element including a guide element, a fine adjustment element or extension element, a pre-tensioned compression spring and washer; the tensioner element is threadedly connected to the extended portion, positioned additionally within cooperating cavities in the main spring block. The tensioner element formed to receive the washer, the compression spring and guide element, compression spring positioned between the guide element and the washer, threading the tensioner element adjusts the pre-tension of approximately 4 pounds, twin mechanisms (not shown) are used, one on each side of the center mounted thumbwheel adjustment element operable with sufficient force to variably enforce initial position. The fine adjustment element is theadedly secured within the guide element and operable to adjust the tip in dimensions up to more than 0.250 from the spring block to the first face for initial contact. Since threading the tensioner element is independently operable to variably adjust the rate of the force of the pre-tension, this configuration benefits from the increased stability and improved acoustic coupling set screw improvement and frees the thumbwheel element to global tune the stabilized initial position over time.

(8) FIGS. 5 and 6 show two alternative Tremolo Stabilizer embodiments in profile where the thumbwheel function is also independent of the adjustment of the stabilizer.

(9) FIG. 5 shows a profile view of the Tremolo Stabilizer improvement shown in FIG. 4 including its relative position in the tremolo pocket area at initial contact. The twin Stabilizers are collectively capable of exerting a combined force of at least 8 to 10 pounds to variably ensure initial position.

(10) FIG. 6 shows an adjustable stop tuner configured for a setup with a global tuner wherein a further alternative example of a Tremolo Stabilizer comprises a single pre-tensioned L-shaped bent piece of sheet metal positioned between the tremolo base plate, and moveable therewith, with the short leg between the spring block element and the base plate and the longer leg extending with a mild curve at the tip for initial contact with the tremolo pocket as shown in FIG. 3. Pivoting the tremolo to flatten pitches engages the pre-tensioned L-shaped spring steel stabilizer mechanism to reinforce the initial position. A setscrew operable to variably contact the L-shaped long leg to modify the rate of the spring is presented. Further, the biasing element can be adjusted.

(11) FIGS. 7 and 8 show two primary fundamental embodiments each notable for not employing an extended portion or thumbwheel.

(12) FIG. 7 comprises another profile view showing the traditional spring block further comprising, and thereby moveable therewith, an adjustment element and setscrew arrangement, each threadedly engaged with the spring block. The adjustment element is threaded within the spring block to make initial contact with the instrument body to “stop” a tremolo; the setscrew secures the position and improves coupling between the three parts. Further, a compound flat spring biasing element formed by two L-shaped flat springs of unequal lengths and varied material thicknesses for the lower legs, like half of a “leaf spring” cut in the middle. A thicker first lower leg comprising at least the major portion of the first variable force of tension and the longer thinner leaf would complete the first variable force of tension requirement and provide for the second variable force of tension. The Stop Tuner, establishing a range for the rearward pivot/upward pitch change, and the compound flat spring arrangement comprising a stabilized biasing element.

(13) FIG. 8 also shows in profile the tremolo device with single adjustable Tremolo Stabilizer added to a similar traditional spring block arrangement. The tensioner is operable to vary the force of the coil spring pre-load and the contact pin is operable to adjust to variations in varied tremolo pocket dimensions to make initial contact at initial position.

(14) FIG. 9 shows in profile the tremolo device with single adjustable Tremolo Stabilizer added to a similar traditional spring block arrangement more profoundly presented in FIGS. 4 and 5. An L-shaped spring flexible bend includes a lower leg including a curved portion extending to variably meet the body operable to hold a first variable force of tension at initial position. The Stabilizer Tensioner is operable to adjust the second force of tension, the coil spring pre-load and the contact pin operable to adjust to variations in varied tremolo pocket dimensions to make initial contact at initial position. A global tuner arrangement is shown with a global tuner thumbwheel extending through the base element to provide a cam-like surface operable to contact and variable position one end of a tensioner spring within a first recess. The tensioner spring having a flexible curved portion pivotably connected to a second recess in the base element in a recess. At least a portion of the flexible curved portion operable to contact the first L-shaped spring at a contact point closer to the flexible bend than to the tip.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

(15) In FIG. 1, an electric guitar 1 is illustrated comprising head 2 at one end, a body 3 at the other end, with neck 4 extending between head 2 and body 3. Six of each string 6 extends from head 2 to body 3 over neck 4. Neck 4 forms fret board or fingerboard 5 for guitar 1. At head 2, each string 6 extends over nut 7 forming first critical point 8 for each string 6. Nut 7 is located at the transition of neck 4 to head 2. Each string 6 is secured on head 2 by a corresponding element 9. On body 3, strings 6 are secured to fulcrum tremolo 10. Fulcrum tremolo 10 has arm 11 for pivoting tremolo 10 to provide the vibrato effect on the strings. Fulcrum tremolo 10 has six intonation modules 12, one for each string 6. By manipulating tremolo arm 11, the entire fulcrum tremolo 10, not including the riser posts and inserts (and in varied designs, related bearing assembly elements), can be pivoted to achieve the desired tremolo effect.

(16) Intonation module 12, shown as a macro-tuner, incorporating the function of bridge or saddle and tailpiece elements, is provided to support string 6. Intonation module 12 is slideably adjustable on base plate 13 to adjust the relative distance between first critical point 8 and second critical point 16 (FIG. 2) to intonate the associated string. Fulcrum tremolo 10 comprises a second critical point 16, one for each string 6, sometimes characterized as an intonation point, witness point or bridge point.

(17) The invention is shown for on electric guitar 1 with six strings 6 and it should be understood that the invention could be used on a variety of stringed musical instruments. In body 3 of guitar 1 there are electric pickups shown without numbers. In the following description, fulcrum tremolo 10 will be described in greater detail.

(18) FIG. 2 displays fulcrum tremolo 10 at initial position in a partial cross-section side view showing body 3. Electric guitar 1 further comprising tremolo pocket 28 and tremolo spring pocket 29, Tremolo Tuner 60 and locking macro-tuner 12 comprising bridge element 17, an associated tailpiece comprising tuning pin 15 variably positioned by tuner knob 14 to alter the tension of string 6 secured to head 2 (not shown). Second critical point 16 is located on intonation module 12. String contact point 16 on bridge element 17. The leading-edge portion of base plate 13 adjustably supports tremolo 10 pivotally relative to body 3. Spring block 21, connected on one end to base plate 13.

(19) Tremolo 10 comprising L-shaped flat spring upper leg 61, secured between base plate 13 and base element 21, L-shaped flat spring upper leg 61 further forming flexible bend 62 and a lower leg 63 comprising curved contact bend 64 operable to make variable contact with spring block 21 forming first contact area 65. Tremolo Spring 60, in a novel position within the traditional tremolo pocket arrangement, having a generally planar surface, approximately 90° to the direction of the strings, curved contact bend 64 operable to variably contact the generally planar parallel surface of inner tremolo cavity forming area 65, flexible bend 62 operable to exert the first variable force of tension against body 3 at initial position. In this depiction, second end extension 64 functioning as a variable fulcrum tremolo biasing element, curved contact bend 64 at contact area 65 exerting a first force of tension essentially equal to the string tension, thereby resisting the rotation of fulcrum tremolo 10 from initial position in one direction.

(20) Tremolo Spring 60 further comprising a global tuner arrangement, in a further preferred embodiment, comprising mounting element 66 secured to body 3 as well as spring tensioner element 66a and thumbwheel 24, thumbwheel 24 comprising a global tuner thumbwheel. Mounting element 66 formed to rotatably support thumbwheel adjustment member 24, thumbwheel adjustment member 24 end 69 in bearing contact with spring tensioner element 66a recess 68, spring tensionerelement 66a variably secured to mounting element 66 by a pin 67, spring tensioner element 66a operable to make variable contact with L-shaped flat spring second end extension 63 curved contact bend 64 comprising contact area 65. In the preferred embodiment, threading thumbwheel adjustment member 24 to variably position spring tensioner element 66a and, thereby, second end extension 63, adjusts the variable first force of tension provided by flexible bend 62.

(21) Also shown is a locking macro-tuner mechanism 12 comprising an articulated extended tip of extended laver-clamp tailpiece improvement 15 to facilitate threading string 6 through the nose slot to clamp string 6 as an alternative to tailpiece tuner knob 14, from a direction opposite or distinct from the traditional direction of operation carried out from the direction the tailpiece portion securing string 6 to body 3.

(22) FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view including main block 21 connected to base plate 13, holder element 22 with extended portion 23 and thumbwheel element 24. Biasing element 19 is shown connected to holder element 22. Thumbwheel element 24 threaded portion 31 and smooth portion 30 passes through transverse opening 32 to engage threaded opening 33 in holder element 22 to position extended portion 23. A bendable flat spring element 35 secured to extended portion 23, compressed between extended portion 23 and tremolo pocket contact area 29 (not shown) at initial position, to provide a second variable force of tension applied to the body when the tremolo is tilted rearwardly to comprise “soft” stop or Tremolo Stabilizer 20. Setscrew 25 is tightened to fix the position of extended portion 23.

(23) FIG. 4 shows alternate improved Tremolo Stabilizer 50, adapted to extended portion 23 of spring holder 22, further comprising tensioner housing 51, guide element 52, fine adjustment element 55 extending through pre-loaded (in assembly) coil spring 53 and washer 54, adjustably positioned within extended portion 23 cooperating cavity 56 and cooperating spring block 21 cavity 57.

(24) Two stabilizer mechanism 50, holding a second variable force of tension collectively, at least 8˜10 pounds force, the second force of tension less than the first force of tension, fine adjustment element 55 positioned to make initial contact with tremolo pocket contact area 29, tremolo 10 at initial position. Tremolo Stabilizer 50 pre-loaded coil spring 53 biasing element 19 first variable force of tension to increase the force required to pivot fulcrum tremolo 10 from initial position in rearwardly.

(25) FIG. 5 shows a profile view of fulcrum tremolo 10 in a partial cross-section side view showing body 3 further comprising tremolo pocket 28 and tremolo spring pocket 29, Tremolo Stabilizer 50 and locking macro-tuner 12 comprising bridge element 17, an associated tailpiece comprising tuning pin 15 variably positioned by the tuner knob to alter the tension of string 6 secured to head 2 (not shown). Second critical point 16 is located on intonation module 12. Base plate 13 pivotally support tremolo 10 on body 3. String contact point 16 on bridge element 17. Base element 21 connected to the base plate 13, holder element 22, thumbwheel 24, setscrew 25 and washer 26.

(26) The twin adjustable Tremolo Stabilizer 50 (one only is shown in profile) adapts spring holder 22 extended portion 23 to receive tensioner housing 51 further comprising guide element 52, washer 54 and fine adjustment element 55, extending through pre-loaded coil spring 53 within cooperating cavity 56 and cooperating spring block 21 cavity 57. Pre-loaded coil spring 55 operable to exert a second variable force of tension. Two stabilizer mechanism 50, holding a second variable force of tension collectively, at least 8˜10 pounds force, the second force of tension less than the first force of tension, fine adjustment element 55 positioned to make initial contact with tremolo pocket contact area 29, tremolo 10 at initial position as shown. Tremolo Stabilizer 50 pre-loaded coil spring 53 biasing element 19 first variable force of tension to increase the force required to pivot fulcrum tremolo 10 from initial position rearwardly. Threading fine adjustment element 55 is operable to establish initial contact at initial position. Threading the tensioner housing is operable to adjust the pre-load of the coil spring element. Threading the thumbwheel 24 is operable adjust the position of spring holder 22 and, thereby, the biasing element force of tension and the second variable force of tension simultaneously.

(27) FIG. 6 shows a profile view of fulcrum tremolo 10 in a partial cross-section side view showing body 3 further comprising tremolo pocket 28, tremolo spring pocket 29, Tremolo Stabilizer 50 and locking macro-tuner 12 comprising bridge element 17, an associated tailpiece comprising tuning pin 15 variably positioned by the tuner knob to alter the tension of string 6 secured to head 2 (not shown). Second critical point 16 is located on intonation module 12. Base plate 13 pivotally support tremolo 10 on body 3. Base element 21 connected to the base plate 13, holder element 22, thumbwheel 24, setscrew 25 and washer 26. Tremolo Stabilizer 50 comprising L-shaped bent piece of flat spring steel 60 comprising a flexible bend positioned on tremolo 10 with short leg 61 between spring block element 21 and base plate 13 and longer leg 62 extending with a mild curve comprising tip 63 contacting tremolo pocket contact area 29.

(28) Flat spring steel 60 flexible bend operable to hold a second variable force of tension, at least 8˜10 pounds force, the second force of tension less than the first force of tension. Threading setscrew 51 is operable to make contact with upper leg 62 to limit the second variable force of tension. The tremolo at initial position, any tendency for sharpened pitches, including by pivoting tremolo 10 rearwardly, activates stabilizer mechanism 50 with its limited capacity to deflect spring block 53 in a direction away from nut (not shown). The flat spring Tremolo Stabilizer complements first variable force of tension of biasing element 19 to increase the force required to pivot fulcrum tremolo 10 rearwardly from initial position.

(29) FIG. 7 show in profile view of fulcrum tremolo 10 in a partial cross-section side view showing body 3 further a novel compound flat spring biasing element with tremolo pocket 28 and tremolo spring pocket 29, Stop Tuner 20 arrangement and locking macro-tuner 12 comprising bridge element 17, an associated tailpiece comprising tuning pin 15 variably positioned by the tuner knob to alter the tension of string 6 secured to head 2 (not shown). Second critical point 16 is located on intonation module 12. Base plate 13 pivotally support tremolo 10 on body 3. String contact point 16 on bridge element 17.

(30) Stop Tuner 20 arrangement comprising traditional spring block 21 further comprising, and moveable therewith, adjustment element 31 and set screw 25, adjustment element 34 and set screw 25 threadedly engaged with spring block 21. Adjustment element 34 comprising threaded portion 31 as shown to make initial contact with tremolo pocket contact area 29 at initial position to “stop” tremolo 10; setscrew 25 secures the position of adjustment element 34 and improves coupling between the three parts. The position of adjustment element 31 can be used to limit the range of backward pivoting for pre-determined upward pulls on the tremolo.

(31) Further, a novel compound L-shaped flat spring biasing element formed by a first upper leg 81, first flexible bend 82, lower leg 83 and curved surfaced end 84, a second upper leg 61, second flexible bend 62, second lower leg 63 of unequal lengths like half of a “leaf spring” cut in the middle. Thicker first lower leg 63 comprising at least the major portion of the first variable force of tension and the longer thinner leaf 83 would complete the first variable force of tension requirement and provide for the second variable force of tension. Stop Tuner 20, limiting rearward pivot/upward pitch change, and the compound flat spring arrangement comprising a stabilized biasing element operable to both establish and enforce initial position when the strings are tensioned to play.

(32) FIG. 8 shows a profile view of fulcrum tremolo 10 in a partial cross-section side view showing body 3 further comprising tremolo pocket 28 and tremolo spring pocket 29, single Tremolo Stabilizer 50 and locking macro-tuner 12 comprising bridge element 17, an associated tailpiece comprising tuning pin 15 variably positioned by the tuner knob to alter the tension of string 6 secured to head 2 (not shown). Second critical point 16 is located on intonation module 12. Base plate 13 pivotally support tremolo 10 on body 3. String contact point 16 on bridge element 17. Base element 21 connected to the base plate 13, holder element 22, thumbwheel 24, setscrew 25 and washer 26.

(33) Single adjustable Tremolo Stabilizer 50 added to spring block 21 comprises tensioner 51 threadedly engaged with extended portion 23 formed to receive washer 54 and pre-tensioned compression spring 54 operable to exert force on fine adjuster 55, theadedly supported by guide element 52, to make variable contact with tremolo pocket contact area 29 of body 3. Threading tensioner 51 is operable to vary pre-tension at initial contact and threading fine adjuster 55 within guide element 52 is operable to variably adjust to tremolo pocket contact area 29 at initial position to stabilize tremolo 10. Single pre-tensioned compression spring 54 comprises at least 8˜10 pounds force. Any tendency for sharpened pitches, by pivoting tremolo 10 lightly and/or bending string 6, etc. activates stabilizer mechanism 50 with its limited capacity to urge spring block 21 in a direction away from nut 7 (not shown) against tremolo pocket contact area 29, tremolo 10 at initial position. Stabilizer 50 pre-loaded coil spring 53 biasing element 19 first variable force of tension to increase the force required to pivot fulcrum tremolo 10 from initial position rearwardly. Threading fine adjustment element 55 is operable to establish initial contact at initial position. Threading the tensioner housing is operable to adjust the pre-load of the coil spring element.

(34) FIG. 9 shows in profile tremolo 10 with novel Tremolo Spring comprising an L-shaped flat spring 60, Global Tuner thumbwheel 24, and at least a single adjustable Tremolo Stabilizer 50 represented with tensioner 52 and contact pin 55 (see in FIGS. 4, 5 and 8 for greater detail).

(35) Further, Tremolo Spring comprising a first upper leg, the first upper leg secured to the instrument, flexible bend 62, lower leg 63 including a curved portion 80 extending to variably meet body 3 at first variable contact area 65, the L-shaped flat spring 60 operable to hold a first variable force of tension at initial position.

(36) A Global Tuner arrangement is shown with a global tuner thumbwheel 24 rotatably supported by base element 21. Thumbwheel 24 shaft further comprising a cylindrically shaped tensioner element 66 comprising cam-like surface 70. Tensioner curved spring element 72 having a first curved end 73, wherein first curved end 74 pivotably mounted within second recess 71 and second curved end 73 pivotably mounted within second recess 73 in the base element 21. At least a portion 72 of the flexible curved portion operable to contact the first L-shaped spring 61 at second variable contact point 75 closer to the flexible bend 62 than to the tip 80. Cam-like surface 70 in variable contact with first end 73 of tensioner spring 72 within first recess 68. Rotating global tuner thumbwheel 24 is operative to rotate the cam-like portion 70 to adjust first end 73 and, thereby, adjust the first variable force of tension.

(37) The various features of novelty, which characterize the invention, are intended to improve the upward spiral of Light and are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and specific objects attained by its use, reference should be had by the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrations and described preferred embodiments of the invention.

(38) While specific embodiments of the invention have been shown and described in detail to illustrate the application of the inventive principles, it will be understood that the invention may be embodied otherwise without departing from such principles.