Patent ID: 6723904
Filing Date: 2004-04-20
Classification: G10D,G10F

Abstract:
An automated player for playing an unmodified stringed instrument comprising:at least one plucking mechanism operable to selectively and releaseably contact and displace a corresponding instrument string such that the instrument string vibrates and produces a sound, and wherein said plucking mechanism further comprises (i) a string-contacting portion rotationally mounted relative to the corresponding string and having a rotational axis substantially parallel to the corresponding instrument string, said string-contacting portion including at least one extendable quill, (ii) a first drive member in mechanical communication with said string-contacting portion and capable of creating relative movement between the first drive member and the string-contacting portion, (iii) an actuator in mechanical communication with said at least one extendable quill, said actuator operably engaging said at least one quill whereby to create relative movement between said actuator and said at least one quill, whereby said at least one quill is selectively extendable to vary the displacement of said string during a rotation of said string-contacting portion.