Resources For Learning About Guitar Bridges...

[MuffinPunch]

Hello all,

I have begun intensely preparing for a project I will be doing for school this term and Im finding that im in way over my head, or else Ive seriously lost my marbles. Maybe both.

I have started a thread in "In Progress..." area with regards to my ideas for this build (see 'Giger 7 string' in my sig), but in a nutshell I need to figure out how to design and build a locking tremolo system or fixed bridge digitally (3d CAD) from the ground up. To put it in context, this is technically an "art piece" and will be applied to a non-working, solid resin guitar (body, neck, tuners, fretboard, hardware, and bridge, etc.) at first, but ultimately taken to a fully working, wood and metal prototype. I know nothing about bridges besides the basics of restringing and setup, but keep in mind, that I will base my design off existing technology (FR, Edge, ZR, Kahler, etc.) I have no desire to reinvent the wheel.

Ive searched everywhere I can think of for a good, detailed resource which will help me understand the mechanics of how a bridge is engineered and why certain materials are used on certain parts, etc., but I havent been able to come up with anything satisfactory thus far. Do any of you know of a resource that will provide me with this information? Thanks for your help!

Edited May 24, 2010 by MuffinPunch

[Mattia]

Fixed bridge is simple, and for locking, just look at the various systems out there. I'd think a patent search for Kahler and Floyd Rose will go a long way, and there are plenty of discussions out in the wild, wild web on the benefits of knife edge vs. ball bearing systems. It mostly boils down to a system that's stable enough to maintain tuning, strong enough to resist undue wear, and low friction enough to allow free movement.