Electronic pad

The present invention provides an electronic pad, including: a struck body, including a first struck portion and a second struck portion; a first and a second vibration sensor, detecting a vibration of the first struck portion and the second struck portion. In the electronic pad, a partitioning portion is interposed between the first struck portion and the second struck portion for partitioning. The partitioning portion includes: a first upright portion, protruding further than at least one of an upper surface of the first struck portion and a lower surface opposite the upper surface; a second upright portion, separated from the first upright portion by a predetermined spacing and protruding further than at least one of an upper surface of the second struck portion and a lower surface opposite the upper surface; and a connection portion connected between the first upright portion and the second upright portion.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the priority benefit of Japan application serial no. 2014-146332, filed on Jul. 16, 2014. The entirety of the above-mentioned patent application is hereby incorporated by reference herein and made a part of this specification.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an electronic pad. Particularly, the present invention relates to an electronic pad capable of correctly specifying a striking position by use of a vibration sensor.

2. Description of Related Art

Conventionally, electronic pads such as cymbal pads, drum pads and so on have been known. For example, the following Patent Literature 1 discloses a striking pad for electronic drums, wherein by arrangement of a sheet sensor on an entire surface of a struck body, the striking pad is capable of correctly specifying a striking position. However, the sheet sensor is expensive. Furthermore, the sheet sensor is a contact sensor and thus is only capable of detecting whether striking occurs or not. Thus, there have been limitations on detection of a performer's natural performance expression by the sheet sensor.

Meanwhile, there has also been known an electronic pad in which a plurality of vibration sensors are arranged on a struck body and a striking position is specified according to an output difference (also known as output ratio, and the same applies hereinafter) between adjacent vibration sensors. The vibration sensor is cheaper than the sheet sensor. Furthermore, the vibration sensor is also capable of detecting striking intensity. Therefore, the vibration sensor is capable of more reliably detecting a performer's natural performance expression.

However, in the case where the striking position is specified according to the output difference between the vibration sensors, there is a problem that, if the output difference between the compared vibration sensors is small, the striking position cannot be correctly specified.

PRIOR ART LITERATURE

Patent Literature

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been accomplished in order to solve the above-mentioned problem. Particularly, the present invention is intended to provide an electronic pad capable of correctly specifying a striking position by use of a vibration sensor.

According to an electronic pad of a technical solution of the present invention, the following effects are obtained. A vibration transmitted between a first struck portion and a second struck portion is transmitted through a partitioning portion interposed between the first struck portion and the second struck portion. The partitioning portion includes a first upright portion, a second upright portion and a connection portion. The first upright portion is a part protruding further than at least one of an upper surface of the first struck portion and a lower surface opposite the upper surface. The second upright portion is a part separated from the first upright portion by a predetermined spacing and protruding further than at least one of an upper surface of the second struck portion and a lower surface opposite the upper surface. The connection portion is a part connected between the first upright portion and the second upright portion. Hence, when the first struck portion is struck, the vibration is transmitted from the first struck portion to the second struck portion through the first upright portion, the connection portion and the second upright portion. That is, compared to a case where the vibration is directly transmitted from the first struck portion to the second struck portion, in the state where the vibration is transmitted to the second struck portion through the first upright portion, the connection portion and the second upright portion, a distance that the vibration is transmitted to reach the second struck portion is increased. Accordingly, the vibration can be attenuated and transmitted to the second struck portion. Or, the first upright portion protrudes from the first struck portion, and the second upright portion protrudes from the second struck portion. Thus, in the first struck portion and the second struck portion, particularly parts where the first upright portion and the second upright portion protrude have higher rigidity than the connection portion connected to the first upright portion and the second upright portion. That is, the first struck portion including the first upright portion and the second struck portion including the second upright portion approach a state of being elastically supported by the connection portion. Thus, the vibration is attenuated by the connection portion. Accordingly, the vibration of the first struck portion can be attenuated and transmitted to the second struck portion. In this manner, when the first struck portion is struck, the vibration is attenuated by the partitioning portion and then transmitted to the second struck portion. Moreover, similarly to the case where the first struck portion is struck, if the second struck portion is struck, the vibration is attenuated by the partitioning portion and then transmitted to the first struck portion. Thus, an output difference between an output of a first vibration sensor (i.e., the vibration of the first struck portion detected by the first vibration sensor) and an output of the second vibration sensor (i.e., the vibration of the second struck portion detected by the second vibration sensor) can be increased. Accordingly, a striking position can be correctly specified by use of the vibration sensors.

Moreover, the first upright portion and the second upright portion include the following aspects. In one aspect, the first upright portion protrudes from the upper surface of the first struck portion, and the second upright portion protrudes from the upper surface of the second struck portion. In one aspect, the first upright portion protrudes from the lower surface of the first struck portion, and the second upright portion protrudes from the lower surface of the second struck portion. In one aspect, the first upright portion protrudes from the upper surface of the first struck portion, and the second upright portion protrudes from the lower surface of the second struck portion. In one aspect, the first upright portion protrudes from the lower surface of the first struck portion, and the second upright portion protrudes from the upper surface of the second struck portion. In one aspect, the first upright portion protrudes from both the upper surface and the lower surface of the first struck portion, and the second upright portion protrudes from either or both of the upper surface and the lower surface of the second struck portion. In one aspect, the second upright portion protrudes from both the upper surface and the lower surface of the second struck portion, and the first upright portion protrudes from either or both of the upper surface and the lower surface of the first struck portion.

According to an electronic pad of another technical solution of the present invention, in addition to the aforementioned effects, the following effects are obtained. The first upright portion and the second upright portion protrude further than the lower surface of the first struck portion and the second struck portion. The connection portion is connected between an end portion of a part of the first upright portion that protrudes further than the lower surface of the first struck portion and an end portion of a part of the second upright portion that protrudes further than the lower surface of the second struck portion. Thus, the vibration transmitted between the first struck portion and the second struck portion is transmitted while its direction is being changed by the partitioning portion. Accordingly, the vibration can be transmitted while being attenuated by the partitioning portion. In addition, the connection portion is connected between the end portion of the first upright portion and the end portion of the second upright portion. Thus, compared to a case where the connection portion is connected between an intermediate position on the first upright portion and an intermediate position on the second upright portion, a distance that the vibration is transmitted between the first struck portion and the second struck portion can be increased. Furthermore, the rigidity of the connection portion can be further reduced. Accordingly, the vibration can be more reliably attenuated by the connection portion. Furthermore, if a struck head is formed on the upper surface side of the first struck portion and the upper surface side of the second struck portion, the first upright portion, the second upright portion and the connection portion are located opposite the struck head. Thus, the first upright portion, the second upright portion and the connection portion can be prevented from obstructing the playing.

According to an electronic pad of another technical solution of the present invention, in addition to the aforementioned effects, the following effects are obtained. The first struck portion and the second struck portion are formed having a predetermined wall thickness. At least one of the first upright portion and the second upright portion is formed having a length, extending from the lower surface to an inner surface of the connection portion, equal to or greater than the predetermined wall thickness. Thus, a distance that the vibration makes a detour is extended. Furthermore, a difference between the rigidity of the first struck portion and the second struck portion and the rigidity of the partitioning portion including the connection portion can be further increased. Accordingly, the output difference between the first vibration sensor and the second vibration sensor can be further increased, and furthermore, the striking position can be correctly specified.

According to an electronic pad of another technical solution of the present invention, in addition to the aforementioned effects, the following effects are obtained. The connection portion is formed in an arc shape expanding in an opposite direction from the upper surface of the first struck portion and the second struck portion. Thus, for example, compared to a case where the partitioning portion has a V shape in a cross-sectional view, a path through which the vibration passes between the first struck portion and the second struck portion can be lengthened and the vibration can be easily attenuated. In addition, in the case where the partitioning portion has a V shape in a cross-sectional view, if the first struck portion or the second struck portion is struck, stress concentrates on a V-shaped bent portion. With respect to this, as described above, the connection portion is formed in an arc shape expanding in the opposite direction from the upper surface of the first struck portion and the second struck portion. Thus, the stress is dispersed. That is, the rigidity of the connection portion can be further reduced. Accordingly, the vibration can be more reliably attenuated by the connection portion. Furthermore, the first struck portion or the second struck portion can be prevented from deformation or damage caused by the stress generated when the first struck portion or the second struck portion is struck.

According to an electronic pad of another technical solution of the present invention, in addition to the aforementioned effects, the following effects are obtained. At least one or more of the first upright portion, the second upright portion and the connection portion are formed thinner than the first struck portion and the second struck portion. Thus, the at least one or more parts bend more easily than the first struck portion and the second struck portion. That is, the vibration is more easily attenuated. Accordingly, the output difference between the first vibration sensor and the second vibration sensor can be further increased, and furthermore, the striking position can be correctly specified.

According to an electronic pad of another technical solution of the present invention, in addition to the aforementioned effects, the following effects are obtained. The connection portion is formed thinner than at least one of the first upright portion and the second upright portion. Thus, the connection portion bends more easily than the at least one of the first upright portion and the second upright portion. That is, the vibration is more easily attenuated. Accordingly, the output difference between the first vibration sensor and the second vibration sensor can be further increased, and furthermore, the striking position can be correctly specified.

According to an electronic pad of another technical solution of the present invention, in addition to the aforementioned effects, the following effects are obtained. The partitioning portion is integrally formed with and of the same material as a struck body. The partitioning portion may also be formed separately from the struck body and the two are later joined together. With respect to this, as described above, the partitioning portion is integrally formed with and of the same material as the struck body. Thus, number of members and assembling steps of the electronic pad can be reduced. Furthermore, rigidity of the electronic pad can be increased.

According to an electronic pad of another technical solution of the present invention, in addition to the aforementioned effects, the following effects are obtained. The partitioning portion is formed concentrically with the struck body in a plan view. Thus, the vibration transmitted in a radial direction can be uniformly attenuated over an entire circumference.

According to an electronic pad of another technical solution of the present invention, in addition to the aforementioned effects, the following effects are obtained. The upper surface of the first struck portion and the upper surface of the second struck portion are covered by a cover having higher elasticity than the first struck portion and the second struck portion. Thus, a percussion sound generated when an upper surface of the cover is struck can be reduced.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. First, a cymbal pad1according to the first embodiment is described with reference toFIG. 1AandFIG. 1B.FIG. 1Ais a bottom view of the cymbal pad1.FIG. 1Bis a cross-sectional view of the cymbal pad1taken on section line Ib-Ib shown inFIG. 1A.

The cymbal pad1is partitioned into three parts denoted as11,12and13. Vibrations of the parts11,12and13are detected by piezoelectric sensors4,5and6, respectively. Particularly, the cymbal pad1is capable of correctly specifying a striking position by increasing an output difference between adjacent piezoelectric sensors4,5and6. Moreover, the piezoelectric sensors4,5and6are connected to a controller (not illustrated). The controller specifies the striking position according to the output difference between the adjacent piezoelectric sensors4,5and6, and outputs a musical sound corresponding to the specified striking position.

The cymbal pad1is formed in a flat dome shape. An upper surface of the cymbal pad1is configured as a circular struck head. As shown inFIG. 1B, the cymbal pad1is partitioned into three parts, namely, a bell portion11, a bow portion12and an edge portion13. The bell portion11is a central part of the cymbal pad1. The bow portion12is a part surrounding the bell portion11. The edge portion13is a part surrounding the bow portion12. The bell portion11and the bow portion12are partitioned from each other by a first partitioning frame22. The bow portion12and the edge portion13are partitioned from each other by a second partitioning frame24. When the parts11,12and13are struck, musical sounds respectively corresponding to the struck parts11,12and13are outputted.

The cymbal pad1includes a frame2, a cover3, a bell sensor4, a bow sensor5and an edge sensor6. The cover3covers an upper surface of the frame2. The bell sensor4, the bow sensor5and the edge sensor6are each a piezoelectric sensor stuck to a bottom surface of the frame2.

The frame2forms a framework of the cymbal pad1. The frame2has a flat dome shape and is formed in a circular shape in a plan view. The frame2includes, from its center in a radial direction, the following parts: a bell frame21, the first partitioning frame22, a bow frame23, the second partitioning frame24and an edge frame25.

The parts of the frame2are each integrally molded of a hard resin material. The parts of the frame2may also be each separately molded and then joined together in a later step. With respect to this, as described above, the parts of the frame2are each integrally molded. Therefore, number of members and assembling steps of the frame2can be reduced. Furthermore, rigidity of the frame2can be improved. The resin material for forming the frame2includes, e.g., PP (polypropylene), PA (polyamide), FRP (fiber-reinforced plastic), etc. Moreover, the frame2may be formed not only of resin but may also be formed of metal such as bronze, iron, stainless steel, etc.

The bell frame21is a central part of the frame2. The bell frame21forms a framework of the bell portion11. A through hole20passes through the center of the bell frame21. A shaft support member (not illustrated) is installed into the through hole20. The cymbal pad1is installed to be swingable with respect to a shaft supported by the shaft support member.

The first partitioning frame22is a part surrounding the bell frame21. The first partitioning frame22is formed concentrically with the frame2and is formed in a U shape in a cross-sectional view. The bow frame23is a part surrounding the first partitioning frame22. The bow frame23forms a framework of the bow portion12. The second partitioning frame24is a part surrounding the bow frame23. The second partitioning frame24is formed concentrically with the frame2and is formed in a U shape in a cross-sectional view. The edge frame25is a part surrounding the second partitioning frame24. The edge frame25forms a framework of the edge portion13.

In this manner, the bell frame21and the bow frame23are partitioned from each other by the first partitioning frame22formed in a U shape in a cross-sectional view. Hence, a vibration transmitted between the bell frame21and the bow frame23is transmitted by the first partitioning frame22along a detour route U-shaped in cross-section. That is, the vibration transmitted between the bell frame21and the bow frame23is transmitted while its direction is being changed and is transmitted through a longer distance from one side to the other side, as compared to a circumstance in which the vibration is transmitted through a direct transmission between the bell frame21and the bow frame23. Accordingly, the vibration can be attenuated by the first partitioning frame22. In addition, the first partitioning frame22is formed concentrically with the frame2. Thus, the vibration transmitted between the bell frame21and the bow frame23in the radial direction can be uniformly attenuated over an entire circumference.

Furthermore, the bow frame23and the edge frame25are partitioned from each other by the second partitioning frame24formed in a U shape in a cross-sectional view. Hence, a vibration transmitted between the bow frame23and the edge frame25is transmitted by the second partitioning frame24along a detour route U-shaped in cross-section. That is, the vibration transmitted between the bow frame23and the edge frame25is transmitted while its direction is being changed and is transmitted through a longer distance from one side to the other side, as compared to a circumstance in which the vibration is transmitted through a direct transmission between the bow frame23and the edge frame25. Accordingly, the vibration can be attenuated by the second partitioning frame24. In addition, the second partitioning frame24is formed concentrically with the frame2. Thus, the vibration transmitted between the bow frame23and the edge frame25in the radial direction can be uniformly attenuated over the entire circumference.

FIG. 2Ais an enlarged cross-sectional view of the second partitioning frame24. Here, the second partitioning frame24is described in detail with reference toFIG. 2A. Moreover, since the first partitioning frame22is configured in the same manner as the second partitioning frame24, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The second partitioning frame24is formed in a U shape in a cross-sectional view by a first upright portion24a, a second upright portion24band a connection portion24c. The connection portion24cis connected to the first upright portion24aand the second upright portion24b. In other words, the second partitioning frame24forms a groove24dsurrounded by the first upright portion24a, the second upright portion24band the connection portion24c.

The first upright portion24ais a part hanging down from a rear surface of the bow frame23. The second upright portion24bis a part spaced apart from the first upright portion24aand hanging down from a bottom surface of the edge frame25. The connection portion24cis connected between an end portion of the first upright portion24aand an end portion of the second upright portion24b. Furthermore, the connection portion24cis a part formed in an arc shape expanding toward a side opposite the cover3.

In this manner, the first upright portion24aprotrudes from the bow frame23, and the second upright portion24bprotrudes from the edge frame25. Thus, in the bow frame23and the edge frame25, particularly parts where the first upright portion24aand the second upright portion24bprotrude have higher rigidity than the connection portion24c. That is, the bow frame23including the first upright portion24aand the edge frame25including the second upright portion24bapproach a state of being elastically supported by the connection portion24c. Thus, the vibration transmitted between the bow frame23and the edge frame25can be attenuated by the connection portion24c.

In addition, the connection portion24cis connected between the end portion of the first upright portion24aand the end portion of the second upright portion24b. Thus, compared to a case where the connection portion24cis connected between an intermediate position on the first upright portion24aand an intermediate position on the second upright portion24b, the distance that the vibration is transmitted between the bow frame23and the edge frame25can be increased. Furthermore, the rigidity of the connection portion24ccan be much lower than the rigidity of the bow frame23and the edge frame25. Thus, the vibration can be more reliably attenuated by the connection portion24c.

In addition, the second partitioning frame24may also be formed in a V shape in a cross-sectional view. However, in this case, if the struck head is struck, stress concentrates on a V-shaped bent portion. With respect to this, the connection portion24cof the second partitioning frame24is formed in an arc shape expanding in an opposite direction from the struck head. Accordingly, the stress is dispersed. That is, the rigidity of the connection portion24ccan be further reduced. Thus, the vibration can be more reliably attenuated by the connection portion24c. Furthermore, the bow frame23or the edge frame25can be prevented from deformation or damage caused by the stress that results from the striking on the struck head.

Furthermore, the second partitioning frame24constituted by the first upright portion24a, the second upright portion24band the connection portion24cis located opposite the struck head. Thus, the second partitioning frame24can be prevented from obstructing the playing.

In addition, the first upright portion24a, the second upright portion24band the connection portion24care formed having almost the same wall thickness d (hereafter the “wall thickness d of the second partitioning frame24”). In the frame2, the bow frame23and the edge frame25are formed having almost the same wall thickness D (hereafter the “wall thickness D of the frame2”). Here, the wall thickness d of the second partitioning frame24is thinner than the wall thickness D of the frame2.

Hence, the second partitioning frame24bends more easily than the bow frame23and the edge frame25. Thus, the vibration transmitted between the bow frame23and the edge frame25is easily buffered by the second partitioning frame24. That is, the vibration can be easily attenuated by the second partitioning frame24.

A length of the first upright portion24afrom the rear surface of the bow frame23to an inner surface of the connection portion24c(the most recessed surface of the inner surface of the connection portion24c) is a length t (hereafter the “height t of the first upright portion24a”). Here, the height t of the first upright portion24ais a little longer than the wall thickness D of the frame2. Moreover, a length of the second upright portion24bfrom a rear surface of the edge frame25to the inner surface of the connection portion24c(the most recessed surface of the inner surface of the connection portion24c) is a little shorter than the height t of the first upright portion24a.

A gap of the groove24dbetween an inner surface of the first upright portion24aand an inner surface of the second upright portion24bis a width w (hereafter the “width w of the groove24d”). The width w of the groove24dis almost as long as the wall thickness D of the frame2. A depth of the groove24dfrom an opening end of the frame2toward the cover3to the inner surface of the connection portion24c(the most recessed surface of the inner surface of the connection portion24c) is a depth h (hereafter the “depth h of the groove24d”). The depth h of the groove24dis almost twice as long as the wall thickness D of the frame2.

That is, due to the second partitioning frame24, the vibration transmitted between the bow frame23and the edge frame25is transmitted in a bending manner through a distance about three times the wall thickness D of the frame2. Thus, the vibration can be transmitted while being attenuated by the second partitioning frame24. Moreover, the sizes (lengths and wall thicknesses) of the first upright portion24a, the second upright portion24b, the connection portion24cand the groove24dare not limited to the aforementioned sizes.

The explanation is continued by referring back toFIG. 1B. The cover3includes, from its center in the radial direction, a dome portion31, a flat portion32and a hook portion33. The flat portion32surrounds the dome portion31. The hook portion33surrounds the flat portion32. The cover3is composed of a resin material having higher elasticity than the frame2. Hence, a percussive sound generated when the cover3is struck can be reduced. The material for composing the cover3is not limited to a resin material, but may also be, e.g., synthetic rubber, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or a foaming material, etc.

The dome portion31is a part covering the bell frame21. The dome portion31is formed in a dome shape expanding toward a central upper side of the dome portion31. A through hole30passing through the through hole20of the bell frame21passes through a center of the dome portion31. The shaft support member is inserted into the through hole30. The flat portion32is a part covering the bow frame23and the edge frame25. The flat portion32is formed flat, having an almost uniform thickness (wall thickness). The hook portion33is a part bending from an end portion of the flat portion32toward the frame2. The cover3is crimped onto the frame2by having the hook portion33hooked on an edge of the frame2.

The bell sensor4, the bow sensor5and the edge sensor6are each configured as a piezoelectric sensor electrically detecting a vibration by a piezoelectric element. Compared to a sheet sensor, the piezoelectric sensor is capable of also detecting striking intensity. Thus, the piezoelectric sensor easily outputs a natural musical sound corresponding to the performer's performance expression. Furthermore, the piezoelectric sensor is cheap and thus capable of reducing costs for members.

The bell sensor4is stuck to a rear surface of the bell frame21to detect the vibration of the bell frame21. The bow sensor5is stuck to the rear surface of the bow frame23to detect the vibration of the bow frame23. The edge sensor6is stuck to the rear surface of the edge frame25to detect the vibration of the edge frame25. Moreover, the bell sensor4, the bow sensor5and the edge sensor6are connected to the controller (not illustrated). The controller specifies the striking position according to an output difference between adjacent piezoelectric sensors, and outputs a musical sound corresponding to the specified striking position.

According to the cymbal pad1, the striking position can be correctly specified. For example, when the edge portion13(an upper surface of the cover3included in the edge portion13) is struck, a vibration is transmitted from the edge frame25to the bow frame23through the second partitioning frame24. The vibration transmitted from the edge frame25to the bow frame23is transmitted while being attenuated by the second partitioning frame24. Hence, an output difference between an output of the edge sensor6(i.e., the vibration of the edge frame25detected by the edge sensor6) and an output of the bow sensor5(i.e., the vibration of the bow frame23detected by the bow sensor5) can be increased. Accordingly, the striking position can be correctly specified by use of the edge sensor6and the bow sensor5.

Similarly, when the bell portion11is struck, a vibration is transmitted from the bell frame21to the bow frame23through the first partitioning frame22. The vibration transmitted from the bell frame21to the bow frame23is transmitted while being attenuated by the first partitioning frame22. Hence, an output difference between an output of the bell sensor4(i.e., the vibration of the bell frame21detected by the bell sensor4) and the output of the bow sensor5(i.e., the vibration of the bow frame23detected by the bow sensor5) can be increased. Accordingly, the striking position can be correctly specified by use of the bell sensor4and the bow sensor5.

Moreover, when the bow portion12is struck, the output of the bow sensor5may be compared to the output of the bell sensor4or the output of the edge sensor6.

Next, with reference toFIG. 2B,FIG. 2C,FIG. 3AandFIG. 3B, variants of the second partitioning frame24are described. Moreover, the variants of the second partitioning frame24described below may also apply to the first partitioning frame22.

FIG. 2Bis an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating a first variant of the second partitioning frame24. Particularly, a second partitioning frame26of the first variant is obtained by changing the shape of the connection portion24cof the second partitioning frame24shown inFIG. 2A.

In the second partitioning frame26of the first variant, a connection portion26cis connected between an end portion of a first upright portion26atoward the cover3and an end portion of the second upright portion26btoward the cover3. An inner surface of the connection portion26cis formed in an arc shape bending toward the cover3. Furthermore, the connection portion26cis formed having a wall thickness thinner than the wall thickness of the frame2.

That is, the first upright portion26aprotrudes from the bow frame23, and the second upright portion26bprotrudes from the edge frame25. Thus, in the bow frame23and the edge frame25, particularly parts where the first upright portion26aand the second upright portion26bprotrude have higher rigidity than the connection portion26cconnected to the first upright portion26aand the second upright portion26b. That is, the bow frame23including the first upright portion26aand the edge frame25including the second upright portion26bapproach a state of being elastically supported by the connection portion26c. Hence, the vibration transmitted between the bow frame23and the edge frame25is transmitted while being attenuated by the connection portion26cof the second partitioning frame26.

Moreover, the wall thickness of the connection portion26cis thinner than the wall thickness of the frame2. Thus, the connection portion26cbends more easily than the frame2. Hence, the vibration is transmitted after being buffered and attenuated by the connection portion26c. Thus, the output difference between the output of the edge sensor6and the output of the bow sensor5can be increased. Accordingly, the striking position can be correctly specified by use of the edge sensor6and the bow sensor5.

In addition, a surface of the connection portion26ctoward the cover3is formed continuously flat between a surface of the bow frame23toward the cover3and a surface of the edge frame25toward the cover3. Hence, as in the second partitioning frame24shown inFIG. 2A, a space is formed between the bow frame23and the edge frame25, and this space can alleviate a sense of incongruity when striking is performed through the cover3.

FIG. 2Cis an enlarged cross-sectional view of a second partitioning frame27of a second variant. Particularly, the second partitioning frame27of the second variant is obtained by reducing the wall thickness of the connection portion24cof the second partitioning frame24shown inFIG. 2A. That is, in the second partitioning frame27of the second variant, a wall thickness d2of a connection portion27cis formed thinner than a wall thickness d1of a first upright portion27aand of a second upright portion27b. Hence, the connection portion27cof the second partitioning frame27bends more easily than the connection portion24cof the second partitioning frame24shown inFIG. 2A. That is, a vibration attenuation effect can be improved.

In addition, the connection portion27cis formed in a linear shape in a cross-sectional view. In this case, rigidity of the connection portion27ccan be reduced compared to a case where the second partitioning frame27is formed into a V shape in a cross-sectional view by directly connecting an end portion of the first upright portion27ato an end portion of the second upright portion27b. In the case where the second partitioning frame27has a V shape in a cross-sectional view, if the struck head is struck, the stress concentrates on the one V-shaped bent portion. With respect to this, as described above, there are two bent portions formed in the second partitioning frame27. One of the bent portions is a connecting part between the end portion of the first upright portion27aand an end portion of the connection portion27c. The other is a connecting part between the end portion of the second upright portion27band the end portion of the connection portion27c. Hence, when the struck head is struck, the stress is dispersed to these two bent portions. Thus, the vibration can be more reliably attenuated by the connection portion27c. Furthermore, the bow frame23or the edge frame25can be prevented from deformation or damage caused by the stress that results from the striking on the struck head.

FIG. 3Ais an enlarged cross-sectional view of a second partitioning frame28of a third variant. In contrast to the second partitioning frame24shown inFIG. 2A, the second partitioning frame28of the third variant is formed in a reverse U shape in a cross-sectional view. In the second partitioning frame28, a first upright portion28aand a second upright portion28bextend above the upper surface of the frame2(the surface of the frame2toward the cover3). A connection portion28cis connected to an end portion of the first upright portion28aand an end portion of the second upright portion28b, the end portions both being above the upper surface of the frame2.

The second partitioning frame28merely differs from the second partitioning frame24shown inFIG. 2Ain a path (direction) in which the vibration is transmitted between the edge frame25and the bow frame23. Thus, similarly to the second partitioning frame24shown inFIG. 2A, the second partitioning frame28is capable of attenuating the vibration transmitted between the edge frame25and the bow frame23.

Moreover, as described above, the second partitioning frame28protrudes above the upper surface of the frame2(the surface of the frame2toward the cover3). Thus, the cover3covering the second partitioning frame28has a thickness thicker than that of the cover3shown inFIG. 2A. In addition, the second partitioning frame28is covered by the cover3. Thus, a vibration of the second partitioning frame28is restricted by the cover3, and the vibration attenuation effect by means of the second partitioning frame28may be alleviated. In this case, some clearance may be provided between the second partitioning frame28and the cover3.

FIG. 3Bis a bottom view of the cymbal pad1provided with a second partitioning frame29of a fourth variant. The second partitioning frame29of the fourth variant has a diameter greater than that of the second partitioning frame24shown inFIG. 1A. Furthermore, an avoiding portion29afor avoiding the edge sensor6is provided at an intermediate position on the second partitioning frame29.

In the cymbal pad1shown inFIG. 3B, the bow frame23is wider and the edge frame25is narrower than in the cymbal pad1shown inFIG. 1A. Hence, if the edge sensor6of the same size as the edge sensor6shown inFIG. 1Ais used, the second partitioning frame29overlaps the edge sensor6. Accordingly, the avoiding portion29afor avoiding the edge sensor6is provided at an intermediate position on the second partitioning frame29.

The second partitioning frame29is not formed concentrically with the frame2, and partitions the bow frame23and the edge frame25from each other. Hence, by the second partitioning frame29, the vibration transmitted between the bow frame23and the edge frame25can be attenuated and transmitted in the same manner as by the second partitioning frame24shown inFIG. 1A. That is, it is not necessary that the second partitioning frame24shown inFIG. 1Abe formed concentrically with the frame2. It is satisfactory as long as the second partitioning frame24partitions at least two striking parts from each other.

Next, variants of the cymbal pad1are described with reference toFIG. 4AandFIG. 4B.FIG. 4Ais a partial cross-sectional view of a cymbal pad50of a first variant. Particularly, the cymbal pad50of the first variant is obtained by removing the first partitioning frame22from the cymbal pad1shown inFIG. 1Aand changing the position where the bell sensor4is attached.

In the cymbal pad50of the first variant, a space40is formed inside the dome portion31of the cover3. A steel plate41is stuck to an inner surface of the dome portion31. The bell sensor4is stuck to the steel plate41to detect a vibration of the steel plate41. Accordingly, in the cymbal pad50of the first variant, the steel plate41of which the vibration is detected by the bell sensor4and the bow frame23of which the vibration is detected by the bow sensor5can be separated from each other. Thus, the output difference between the output of the bell sensor4and the output of the bow sensor5can be increased. Accordingly, without a component equivalent to the first partitioning frame22, the striking position can still be correctly specified by use of the bell sensor4and the bow sensor5.

FIG. 4Bis a cross-sectional view of a cymbal pad60of a second variant. The cymbal pad60of the second variant is of a type made of metal and having no cover for covering the frame2. In addition, the upper surface of the frame2is configured as the struck head. The cymbal pad60of the second variant includes the frame2, the bow sensor5and the edge sensor6. The bow sensor5and the edge sensor6are stuck to the bottom surface of the frame2.

The frame2has a flat dome shape and is formed in a circular shape in a plan view. The frame2includes a shaft insertion hole61, a bow frame62, a second partitioning frame63and an edge frame64. The shaft insertion hole61passes through a center of the frame2. The bow frame62surrounds the shaft insertion hole61. The second partitioning frame63surrounds the bow frame62. The edge frame64surrounds the second partitioning frame63. That is, the cymbal pad60is partitioned into two parts by the second partitioning frame63. The second partitioning frame63is equivalent to the second partitioning frame24of the cymbal pad1. Hence, in the cymbal pad60, the vibration transmitted between the bow frame62and the edge frame64can be attenuated by the second partitioning frame63. Accordingly, the striking position can be correctly specified by use of the edge sensor6and the bow sensor5. That is, with respect to the cymbal pad, a cover may be present or omitted. Furthermore, it is preferable as long as the cymbal pad is partitioned into two or more parts.

Next, a drum pad according to the second embodiment of the present invention is described with reference toFIG. 5AtoFIG. 5C.FIG. 5Ais a plan view of a drum pad70.FIG. 5Bis a cross-sectional view of the drum pad70taken on section line Vb-Vb inFIG. 5A.FIG. 5Cis a cross-sectional view of the drum pad70taken on section line Vc-Vc inFIG. 5A.

The drum pad70is partitioned into four parts denoted as71,72,73and74. Vibrations of the parts71,72,73and74are detected by piezoelectric sensors110,120,130and140, respectively. Particularly, an output difference between adjacent piezoelectric sensors110,120,130and140is increased so that a striking position can be correctly specified. Moreover, the piezoelectric sensors110,120,130and140are connected to a controller (not illustrated). The controller specifies the striking position according to the output difference between the adjacent piezoelectric sensors, and outputs a musical sound corresponding to the specified striking position.

The drum pad70is formed in a flat box shape. An upper surface of the drum pad70is configured as a rectangular struck head. A rectangular frame90forming a framework of the struck head of the drum pad70is partitioned into four parts by a vertical frame91and a horizontal frame92. The frame90is divided by the vertical frame91into two equal parts in a long-side direction (a left-right direction inFIG. 5A). The frame90is divided by the horizontal frame92into two equal parts in a short-side direction (an up-down direction inFIG. 5B).

The drum pad70is partitioned into the following four parts with the vertical frame91and the horizontal frame92as boundaries: a first pad portion71, a second pad portion72, a third pad portion73and a fourth pad portion74. When the pad portions71,72,73and74are struck, musical sounds respectively corresponding to the struck parts71,72,73and74are outputted.

In the drum pad70, the vertical frame91and the horizontal frame92are equivalent to the first partitioning frame22and the second partitioning frame24of the cymbal pad1(seeFIG. 1AandFIG. 1B) of the first embodiment. That is, in the drum pad70, by the vertical frame91and the horizontal frame92, the vibrations transmitted between each two adjacent pad portions can be attenuated.

The drum pad70includes a housing80, a frame90, a cover100, a first sensor110, a second sensor120, a third sensor130and a fourth sensor140. The housing80has an opened upper surface. The frame90covers the opened surface of the housing80. The cover100covers the frame90. The first sensor110, the second sensor120, the third sensor130and the fourth sensor140are piezoelectric sensors stuck to a rear surface of the frame90.

The housing80supports the frame90covered by the cover100. The housing80is formed in a hollow box shape. The housing80includes a bottom wall81, a side wall82and a flange83. The side wall82extends from an outer edge of the bottom wall81. The flange83bends outward from an upper end of the side wall82. A protrusion84projects from an upper surface of the flange83. A concave groove102bof the cover100is fitted to the protrusion84.

The frame90is formed in a rectangular shape in a plan view. The frame90is partitioned into four frames (a first frame93, a second frame94, a third frame95and a fourth frame96) by the vertical frame91and the horizontal frame92intersecting in a cross shape.

The vertical frame91is formed in a U shape in a cross-sectional view. The vertical frame91includes a first vertical frame91a(on the upper side inFIG. 5A) and a second vertical frame91b(on the lower side inFIG. 5B) with a part intersecting the horizontal frame92as a boundary. The first vertical frame91ais interposed between the first frame93and the fourth frame96to attenuate a vibration transmitted between the first frame93and the fourth frame96. The second vertical frame91bis interposed between the second frame94and the third frame95to attenuate a vibration transmitted between the second frame94and the third frame95.

The horizontal frame92is formed in a U shape in a cross-sectional view. The horizontal frame92includes a first horizontal frame92a(on the left side inFIG. 5A) and a second horizontal frame92b(on the right side inFIG. 5A) with a part intersecting the vertical frame91as a boundary. The first horizontal frame92ais interposed between the first frame93and the second frame94to attenuate a vibration transmitted between the first frame93and the second frame94. The second horizontal frame92bis interposed between the third frame95and the fourth frame96to attenuate a vibration transmitted between the third frame95and the fourth frame96.

Moreover, the vertical frame91and the horizontal frame92are equivalent to the first partitioning frame22and the second partitioning frame24of the cymbal pad1(seeFIG. 1AandFIG. 1B) of the first embodiment. Since the vertical frame91and the horizontal frame92are configured in the same manner as the first partitioning frame22and the second partitioning frame24, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The cover100includes a main body portion101and a hook portion102. The hook portion102is connected with an outer edge of the main body portion101. The cover100is composed of a resin material having higher elasticity than the frame2. Thus, a percussive sound generated when the struck head is struck can be reduced.

The main body portion101is a part covering an upper surface of the frame90. The main body portion101has a plate shape and is formed in a rectangular shape in a plan view. A vertical groove101ais formed at a position on the main body portion101where the vertical groove101aoverlaps the vertical frame91. Furthermore, a horizontal groove101bis formed at a position on the main body portion101where the horizontal groove101boverlaps the horizontal frame92. The performer can recognize positions of the first pad portion71, the second pad portion72, the third pad portion73and the fourth pad portion74according to the vertical groove101aand the horizontal groove101b.

The hook portion102is a part hanging down from the outer edge of the main body portion101and bending inward. The frame90is sandwiched between the main body portion101and the hook portion102and crimped to the cover100. The concave groove102bis depressed on a surface of the hook portion102opposed to the flange83of the housing80. The protrusion84protruding from the flange83is fitted into the concave groove102b. Accordingly, the frame90is fixed to the housing80through the cover100.

All of the first sensor110, the second sensor120, the third sensor130and the fourth sensor140are piezoelectric sensors. The first sensor110is stuck to a center of a rear surface of the first frame93to detect a vibration of the first frame93. The second sensor120is stuck to a center of a rear surface of the second frame94to detect a vibration of the second frame94. The third sensor130is stuck to a center of a rear surface of the third frame95to detect a vibration of the third frame95. The fourth sensor140is stuck to a center of a rear surface of the fourth frame96to detect a vibration of the fourth frame96.

According to the drum pad70, the striking position can be correctly specified. For example, when the first pad portion71(an upper surface of the cover100included in the first pad portion71) is struck, the vibration transmitted from the first frame93to the second frame94is attenuated by the first horizontal frame92a. Hence, an output difference between an output of the first sensor110(i.e., the vibration of the first frame93detected by the first sensor110) and an output of the second sensor120(i.e., the vibration of the second frame94detected by the second sensor120) can be increased. Accordingly, the striking position can be correctly specified by use of the first sensor110and the second sensor120.

Moreover, in the above examples, descriptions have been given of the case where the output of the first sensor110and the output of the second sensor120are compared to each other. However, it is satisfactory as long as the sensors to be compared are sensors attached to adjacent pads. That is, in the above examples, the output of the first sensor110may also be compared to the output of the fourth sensor140.

Next, a drum pad150as a variant of the drum pad70is described with reference toFIG. 6AtoFIG. 6C.FIG. 6Ais a plan view of the drum pad150.FIG. 6Bis a cross-sectional view of the drum pad150taken on section line VIb-VIb inFIG. 6A.FIG. 6Cis a cross-sectional view of the drum pad150taken on section line VIc-VIc inFIG. 6A. Moreover, components in common with the drum pad70are denoted by the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

In contrast to the drum pad70, the drum pad150is provided with an outer edge frame97. The outer edge frame97attenuates a vibration transmitted to an outer edge of the frame90. The outer edge frame97is a portion of the frame90. The outer edge frame97is provided a little inward of and along the outer edge of the frame90on an entire circumference of the frame90. Similarly to the vertical frame91and the horizontal frame92, the outer edge frame97is formed in a U shape in a cross-sectional view.

Hence, if the struck head is struck, the vibration transmitted toward the outer edge of the frame90is transmitted while being attenuated by the outer edge frame97. Accordingly, the following problem can be suppressed: due to the vibration of the outer edge of the frame90, fatigue occurs in the hook portion102of the cover100that sandwiches the outer edge of the frame90so that the frame90is detached from the cover100. In addition, the following problem can be suppressed: due to the fatigue of the hook portion102of the cover100, the protrusion84gets out of the concave groove102b. A vibration conversely transmitted from the outer edge of the frame90can be suppressed from being detected by the first to fourth sensors110to140by mistake. The vibration transmitted from the outer edge of the frame90includes, e.g., a transmitted vibration that results from striking on the housing80, or a vibration transmitted through a stand (not illustrated) holding the housing80, etc.

The above illustrates the present invention on the basis of the embodiments. However, it is easily understood that the present invention is not limited to any of the above embodiments, and various modifications or alterations may be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

Descriptions have been given of the case where the cymbal pad1according to the first embodiment is integrally formed by the bell frame21, the first partitioning frame22, the bow frame23, the second partitioning frame24and the edge frame25. Descriptions have been given of the case where the drum pad70according to the second embodiment is integrally formed by the vertical frame91, the horizontal frame92and the first to fourth frames93to96. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

For example, the cymbal pad1according to the first embodiment may also be obtained as follows. The first partitioning frame22and the second partitioning frame24are molded of a material more elastic than the bell frame21, the bow frame23and the edge frame25, and the parts are then joined together. In this case, due to the elasticity of the first partitioning frame22and the second partitioning frame24, the vibration can be more efficiently attenuated. The same also applies to the drum pad70according to the second embodiment.

In addition, a plurality of kinds of variants of the second partitioning frame24in the cymbal pad1according to the first embodiment have been described. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the second partitioning frame24may also be formed in a W shape, an N shape, an S shape or a wave shape in a cross-sectional view. In this case, the direction of the vibration transmitted between adjacent striking regions is changed, the path of the vibration can be lengthened, and the vibration can be attenuated.

In addition, in the second partitioning frame24shown inFIG. 2A, at least one of the first upright portion24aand the second upright portion24bmay also protrude more toward the cover3than the surface of the frame2toward the cover3. On the contrary, in the second partitioning frame28shown inFIG. 3A, at least one of the first upright portion28aand the second upright portion28bmay also protrude more toward the side opposite the cover3than a rear surface of the frame2. In this case, the vibration can be more efficiently attenuated.

In addition, the variants of the second partitioning frame24described in the above embodiments may also apply to the first partitioning frame22. Furthermore, the variants of the second partitioning frame24may also apply to the vertical frame91and the horizontal frame92included in the drum pad70according to the second embodiment. Furthermore, descriptions have been given of the case where in the drum pad70according to the second embodiment, the frame90is covered by the cover100. However, as in the cymbal pad60of the second variant shown inFIG. 4B, the cover100may also be omitted.

In addition, descriptions have been given of the case where the cymbal pad1according to the first embodiment includes one piezoelectric sensor in each of the three partitioned parts, namely, the bell portion11, the bow portion12and the edge portion13. Descriptions have been given of the case where the drum pad70according to the second embodiment includes one piezoelectric sensor in each of the four partitioned parts, namely, the first to fourth pad portions71,72,73and74. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Each part may also be provided with two or more piezoelectric sensors. In this case, the striking position on each part can be more correctly specified.

Descriptions have been given of the case where the frame2in the cymbal pad1according to the first embodiment is partitioned into three parts by the first partitioning frame22and the second partitioning frame24. Descriptions have been given of the case where the frame90in the drum pad70according to the second embodiment is partitioned into four parts, namely, the first to fourth frames93to96, by the vertical frame91and the horizontal frame92. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, it is satisfactory as long as the frame2is partitioned into two or more parts by components equivalent to the first partitioning frame22and the second partitioning frame24. In addition, it is satisfactory as long as the frame90is partitioned into two or more parts by components equivalent to the vertical frame91and the horizontal frame92. In this case, the vibration transmitted between adjacent parts can be attenuated.

In addition, if the output difference between the adjacent piezoelectric sensors is increased, it is not necessary that the first partitioning frame22and the second partitioning frame24or the vertical frame91and the horizontal frame92be continuously formed. For example, there may also be discontinuous parts at intermediate positions on the first partitioning frame22and the second partitioning frame24or at intermediate positions on the vertical frame91and the horizontal frame92.

In addition, in the above first and second embodiments, descriptions have been given of the case where the output difference between the piezoelectric sensors provided at two adjacent parts is compared. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. An output difference between at least two or more piezoelectric sensors may also be compared. That is, in the first embodiment, an output difference between the three sensors, namely, the bell sensor4, the bow sensor5and the edge sensor6, may also be compared. In addition, in the second embodiment, an output difference between three of or all of the first to fourth sensors110to140may also be compared. In this case, the striking position can be more correctly specified.

Furthermore, in the above first and second embodiments, descriptions have been given of the case where the vibration of the drum pad or the cymbal pad is detected by use of the piezoelectric sensor (the bell sensor4, the bow sensor5, the edge sensor6and the first to fourth sensors110to140). That is, descriptions have been given of the case where the vibration is detected by a contact sensor. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The sensor detecting the vibration may also be a proximity sensor (non-contact sensor) such as an induction type proximity sensor or a capacitance type proximity sensor, etc. If the proximity sensor (non-contact sensor) is used, a response speed, in particular, can be increased.