Determination and utilization of small electric drive systems overload potentials using the example of a contrabass clarinet

Abstract:
This work presents the determination and utilization of small electric drive systems overload potentials regarding the application of a contrabass clarinet’s key actuation. To improve sound and intonation, a contrabass clarinet with sensory detection of the players input and actuated keys has been developed in the past years. Now the aim is to identify an actuator solution, which is as small and light as possible. Therefore, two solution options are presented in this paper: A direct drive motor used with a higher torque level than the rated value and a geared motor, which was overloaded regarding the data sheet load limit of the gearhead. Appropriate functionality was shown by both options during testing of load cycles retrieved from sustained tones as well as musical pieces.