Product Designer Needed: Unique Guitar String Bowing Device (Hurdy-Gurdy/Cantareel Inspired) Ended

About the job

1. Project Overview:

I am seeking an experienced and innovative product designer (or industrial designer with strong mechanical engineering skills) to create a completely original design for a device that allows an acoustic or classical guitar to be played like a bowed string instrument, similar to a hurdy-gurdy.

While the functional effect is inspired by existing concepts like the hurdy-gurdy and the Cantareel (a Japanese product that bows guitar strings), my primary requirement is for an entirely new, unique, and patentable design. I am not looking for a copy or modification of any existing product, but rather a novel solution to achieve the desired sound.

2. The Problem/Opportunity:
Guitarists often seek unique sonic textures. This device aims to provide a sustained, bowed sound on a standard acoustic or classical guitar, opening up new creative possibilities for musicians without requiring them to purchase a separate instrument. The challenge lies in creating a user-friendly, non-damaging, and mechanically sound device.

3. Key Functional Requirements:
* String Bowing Mechanism: The core of the device. It must incorporate a rotating wheel (or a similar novel mechanism) that makes contact with the guitar strings to produce a sustained, bowed sound.

* Consideration must be given to string wear (both steel and nylon strings), rosin application/management, and achieving consistent sound.

* The mechanism should allow for the bowing of multiple strings... read more
1. Project Overview:

I am seeking an experienced and innovative product designer (or industrial designer with strong mechanical engineering skills) to create a completely original design for a device that allows an acoustic or classical guitar to be played like a bowed string instrument, similar to a hurdy-gurdy.

While the functional effect is inspired by existing concepts like the hurdy-gurdy and the Cantareel (a Japanese product that bows guitar strings), my primary requirement is for an entirely new, unique, and patentable design. I am not looking for a copy or modification of any existing product, but rather a novel solution to achieve the desired sound.

2. The Problem/Opportunity:
Guitarists often seek unique sonic textures. This device aims to provide a sustained, bowed sound on a standard acoustic or classical guitar, opening up new creative possibilities for musicians without requiring them to purchase a separate instrument. The challenge lies in creating a user-friendly, non-damaging, and mechanically sound device.

3. Key Functional Requirements:
* String Bowing Mechanism: The core of the device. It must incorporate a rotating wheel (or a similar novel mechanism) that makes contact with the guitar strings to produce a sustained, bowed sound.

* Consideration must be given to string wear (both steel and nylon strings), rosin application/management, and achieving consistent sound.

* The mechanism should allow for the bowing of multiple strings simultaneously, with potential consideration for isolating specific strings (though this is a secondary, advanced feature if feasible).

* Guitar Compatibility: Must be designed for use with both acoustic (steel-string) and classical (nylon-string) guitars.

* Attachment Method:
* Non-Damaging: Absolutely crucial. The device must attach securely to the guitar without causing any scratches, dents, finish damage, or requiring any permanent modifications to the instrument.

* Easy Attachment/Detachment: It should be quick and intuitive for a musician to attach and remove the device.

* Stable: Must remain stable and properly aligned during playing.

* Ergonomics & Playability:
* The primary means of operating the bowing mechanism (e.g., hand crank) must be ergonomically comfortable for a guitar player while seated or standing.

* The device should not significantly impede access to the guitar's fretboard or soundhole.

* Sound Quality: The goal is to achieve a sustained, resonant, and musical tone. The designer should consider how the mechanism influences the tonal characteristics.

* Portability: Ideally, the device should be reasonably compact for transport (e.g., fitting in a guitar case compartment, or a small separate bag).

4. Aesthetic & Brand Vision:
I am open to design aesthetics, but generally prefer a look that is:
(Anything cost efficient without sacrificing quality)
* [ ] Modern and sleek
* [ ] Organic and natural (e.g., complementing wood tones)
* [ ] Robust and functionalist
* [ ] Elegant and minimalist

The final design should look professional and appealing to musicians, inspiring confidence in its quality and functionality.

5. Deliverables:
The successful designer will provide the following:

* Phase 1: Concept Development:
* Multiple initial concept sketches/ideas exploring different mechanical approaches and aesthetics.
* Rendered visuals of chosen concepts.

* Phase 2: Detailed Design & Engineering:
* Full 3D CAD models (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, STEP files) with all components ready for prototyping.

* Detailed engineering drawings suitable for manufacturing (tolerances, material call-outs, assembly instructions).

* Bill of Materials (BOM) listing all parts.

* Manufacturing Feasibility Review:
* Consideration of cost-effective manufacturing processes (e.g., injection molding, CNC machining, 3D printing).

* Recommendations for suitable materials for each component.

* (Optional, but a plus): A basic strategy or recommendations for initial prototyping.

6. Budget & Timeline:
* Budget: Please provide your estimated fees for completing this project based on the deliverables outlined.

* Timeline: Please provide an estimated timeline for each phase of the project, from concept to final CAD files.

7. Intellectual Property (IP):
It is understood that all intellectual property rights, including design patents and utility patents (should they be pursued), for the final design developed through this project will belong exclusively to me.

8. How to Apply:
Please submit your proposal including:
* A brief overview of your relevant experience in product design, mechanical engineering, and any experience with musical instruments or precision devices.

* Examples from your portfolio that showcase your ability to design complex mechanisms, consumer products, or unique solutions.

* Your proposed approach to this project.

* Your estimated fee and timeline.

I look forward to reviewing creative and innovative proposals!

"This project is not affiliated with Cantareel or Logic Wave JP." read less
1. Project Overview:

I am seeking an experienced and innovative product designer (or industrial designer with strong mechanical engineering skills) to create a completely original design for a device that allows an acoustic or classical guitar to be played like a bowed string instrument, similar to a hurdy-gurdy.

While the functional effect is inspired by existing concepts like the hurdy-gur... read more
1. Project Overview:

I am seeking an experienced and innovative product designer (or industrial designer with strong mechanical engineering skills) to create a completely original design for a device that allows an acoustic or classical guitar to be played like a bowed string instrument, similar to a hurdy-gurdy.

While the functional effect is inspired by existing concepts like the hurdy-gurdy and the Cantareel (a Japanese product that bows guitar strings), my primary requirement is for an entirely new, unique, and patentable design. I am not looking for a copy or modification of any existing product, but rather a novel solution to achieve the desired sound.

2. The Problem/Opportunity:
Guitarists often seek unique sonic textures. This device aims to provide a sustained, bowed sound on a standard acoustic or classical guitar, opening up new creative possibilities for musicians without requiring them to purchase a separate instrument. The challenge lies in creating a user-friendly, non-damaging, and mechanically sound device.

3. Key Functional Requirements:
* String Bowing Mechanism: The core of the device. It must incorporate a rotating wheel (or a similar novel mechanism) that makes contact with the guitar strings to produce a sustained, bowed sound.

* Consideration must be given to string wear (both steel and nylon strings), rosin application/management, and achieving consistent sound.

* The mechanism should allow for the bowing of multiple strings simultaneously, with potential consideration for isolating specific strings (though this is a secondary, advanced feature if feasible).

* Guitar Compatibility: Must be designed for use with both acoustic (steel-string) and classical (nylon-string) guitars.

* Attachment Method:
* Non-Damaging: Absolutely crucial. The device must attach securely to the guitar without causing any scratches, dents, finish damage, or requiring any permanent modifications to the instrument.

* Easy Attachment/Detachment: It should be quick and intuitive for a musician to attach and remove the device.

* Stable: Must remain stable and properly aligned during playing.

* Ergonomics & Playability:
* The primary means of operating the bowing mechanism (e.g., hand crank) must be ergonomically comfortable for a guitar player while seated or standing.

* The device should not significantly impede access to the guitar's fretboard or soundhole.

* Sound Quality: The goal is to achieve a sustained, resonant, and musical tone. The designer should consider how the mechanism influences the tonal characteristics.

* Portability: Ideally, the device should be reasonably compact for transport (e.g., fitting in a guitar case compartment, or a small separate bag).

4. Aesthetic & Brand Vision:
I am open to design aesthetics, but generally prefer a look that is:
(Anything cost efficient without sacrificing quality)
* [ ] Modern and sleek
* [ ] Organic and natural (e.g., complementing wood tones)
* [ ] Robust and functionalist
* [ ] Elegant and minimalist

The final design should look professional and appealing to musicians, inspiring confidence in its quality and functionality.

5. Deliverables:
The successful designer will provide the following:

* Phase 1: Concept Development:
* Multiple initial concept sketches/ideas exploring different mechanical approaches and aesthetics.
* Rendered visuals of chosen concepts.

* Phase 2: Detailed Design & Engineering:
* Full 3D CAD models (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, STEP files) with all components ready for prototyping.

* Detailed engineering drawings suitable for manufacturing (tolerances, material call-outs, assembly instructions).

* Bill of Materials (BOM) listing all parts.

* Manufacturing Feasibility Review:
* Consideration of cost-effective manufacturing processes (e.g., injection molding, CNC machining, 3D printing).

* Recommendations for suitable materials for each component.

* (Optional, but a plus): A basic strategy or recommendations for initial prototyping.

6. Budget & Timeline:
* Budget: Please provide your estimated fees for completing this project based on the deliverables outlined.

* Timeline: Please provide an estimated timeline for each phase of the project, from concept to final CAD files.

7. Intellectual Property (IP):
It is understood that all intellectual property rights, including design patents and utility patents (should they be pursued), for the final design developed through this project will belong exclusively to me.

8. How to Apply:
Please submit your proposal including:
* A brief overview of your relevant experience in product design, mechanical engineering, and any experience with musical instruments or precision devices.

* Examples from your portfolio that showcase your ability to design complex mechanisms, consumer products, or unique solutions.

* Your proposed approach to this project.

* Your estimated fee and timeline.

I look forward to reviewing creative and innovative proposals!

"This project is not affiliated with Cantareel or Logic Wave JP." read less

Things to know

Job location

Remote

Work location

Job skill level

Expert

Skill Level

Job rate

Open budget

Hourly

Job type

Part-time

Job type

Job length

Under 1-month

Job duration

Areas of expertise

Manufacturing Engineering Mechanical Design Engineering Mechanical Engineering Product Design and Development +1 more

Job categories

Mechanical Design Services Design for Manufacturing and Assembly Prototype Design Services Product Engineering Services +1 more

Languages

English

Native or bilingual proficiency

About the client

Payment ready

United States (12:37 pm)

Posted

Active

Job activity

12 Applicants

2 interviews in progress

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