Adaptive Guitar

The Need

The client has limited use of the left side of his body, but wishes to play the acoustic guitar. The parents of the client have asked that we create an apparatus that allows the one-handed usage of an acoustic guitar. Ideally, this design would be able to press chords and allow the client to strum at the same time with his right hand. It is important to note that the client does not have much strength in his left hand either. The client is a big Beatles fan.

The Solution

Our solution is a device that will press the strings on the guitar and from the chords so the client does not have to. It involves a system of cantilevers, each shaped to form a specific chord, activated by a system of strings connected to servo motors. These servo motors are activated with a button press in the prototype, but for the final version will be controlled by an easier method for the client such as foot pedals. This device will play Am, C, D, G, and Em chords. These chords are tailored to the Beatles song Blackbird, but will work for most popular songs.