Update #2: Basic Build for Linear Track

   To make the instrument that is being designed play chords, a linear belt track run by a stepper motor is being incorporated along with a slide. The linear track system will resemble one that could be found in a 3D printer. Since the instrument being used is a steel string guitar, there are multiple issues that needed to be taken care of which is why a simple model is being built. The main issues that are being faced with this linear track idea have to do with the ability to have enough pressure to push down the strings and have smooth enough movement to allow for proper play of the song. When playing chords, the guitar will need to be tuned to an open chord which means a simple baring of a single fret is needed to play a standard major chord. There is a minimal amount of flexibility for which notes can be played with our current method however, this is a less complex system than using say solenoids to push down individual strings.

   Now, for the general track design. The structure created needs to allow for enough room so that the belt and slide system can cross enough frets (depending on what chords or song is being played) and be sturdy enough to resist any motion provided by the stepper motor and belt/pulley system. Each structure will need enough clearance over the guitar fretboard and neck to not interfere with the strings as well as be at just the right distance to keep the belt taut. Greasing up a pulley and the belt will decrease frictionallowing for moderate changes in performance.This belt/pulley system itelf is only covering the horizontal motion across fretboard.

   So how are any issues with pressure and clear sound of the strings going to be resolved? Well for one, the slide being utilized is going to be brass. For the strings being used this will provide the perfect tones but the slide itself is heavy, which needs to be addressed in the design. Along with this, a set of thin, steel bars are being placed across the structure to guide the slide as well as provide just a slight amount of pressure that needs to be applied.

    Figure #1: A simple plastic model of our metallic track design



   Now, one issue that came into question was the fact that when the guitar is laid down, it does not lie flat, To resolve this issue, a neck cradle of sorts was cut from styrofoam and placed just under the neck.This, in turn, keeps the belt system running on a flat surface. The structure that needs to be created will be made out of wood and will be one continuous structure. The first prototype was two separate pieces which allows for the length of the belt to be changed until we find the correct orientation that works.

    Figure #2: Prototype w/o metallic bars

    Figure #3: Prototype track w/ guitar

Testing will need to be done to minimize mechanicl error with the stepper motor as well as the belt. This can only be accomplished once an updated version of our circuit is created.