Stringless fingerboard synthesizer controller

Abstract

Strings and frets are simulated in a resilient fingerboard controller for synthesizer-type musical instruments. Raised string-faces and fret-faces simulate the feel of conventional strings and frets. Embedded sensor strips connect to an external customized encoder. In operation, notes are selected in the manner of conventional guitar fret-stopping but with either hand or both hands simultaneously. The pitch of each note is under real time control of the player's finger tips via pressure exerted in either lateral direction against the simulated strings, bending the pitch upward in proportion to the amount of such pressure in either direction as is usual in stringed instruments, or, alternatively, bending the pitch up or down depending on the direction of the pressure. Optional fret-bend sensors enable proportional control over additional effects. A series-connected sensor matrix and a bank of individual strobed string-face encoders provide full all-string polyphony; alternatively, a parallel sensor matrix and multi-encoder may be made to provide a lesser degree of polyphony for simplification and economy. MIDI formatting of the encoder output provides wide compatibility with readily available musical equipment. The present invention provides special benefits when operated in conjunction with the two-handed tapping technique as practiced on the ten-string Chapman Stick* and The Grid*.