Joe Blubaugh Diana Mui David Sutherland Matthew Swallow .das Autotünr. Joe Blubaugh Diana Mui David Sutherland Matthew Swallow

Fundamental Features Analyzes the frequencies of an incoming sound data using a discrete Fourier transform (DFT). Tunes six strings concurrently to predefined tuning settings. User interface to traverse through settings with LEDs to indicate tuning status. Records incoming sound data as a MIDI file.

Parallel Patented Products Automatic string instrument tuner Patent No. 5,767,429 System and method for automatically detecting a set of fundamental frequencies simultaneously present in an audio signal Patent No. 6,140,568 Tuning apparatus for stringed instruments Patent No. 4,889,029

Automatic string instrument tuner Substantial Similarities Uses a microphone as a signal pickup device. Adjusts the tension of a string using a electrically controlled motor Detects a sound signal and compares it to a reference value associated with a desired frequency. User-defineable tuning setting. Distinct Difference Frequency analysis is done through a signal conditioner that uses the harmonic signals rather than peak detection.

System and Method for … Substantial Similarities Identifies one or more fundamental frequencies simultaneously present in a signal. Decomposes the signal into reference frequencies using peak detection. Represents detected fundamental frequencies as well as durations and amplitudes as MIDI data. Distinct Difference The reference frequencies are stored and utilized as a sine wave table rather than as a table of frequency values.

Tuning apparatus for stringed… Substantial Similarities Uses a motor to tighten/loosen a peg determined by comparing the fundamental frequency of a string to a table of relative frequencies. Has a visual indicator to show tuning status. User-defineable tuning settings for strings. Distinct Differences Only tunes one string at a time Signal is converted to a square wave of the signal frequency for analysis

Is It Infringement? “Yes” argument Portions of the product is literally the same as described in the patents. The same task is performed in substantially the same way. “No” argument There are differences between our product and the device in main functional aspects.