Abstract: A method of utilizing previous event feedback information from historical derived hammer velocity data, such as associated with a MIDI record function, for providing non-real-time feedback when controlling actuators. The use of non-real-time feedback within the present invention provides a number of advantages over the use of conventional real-time feedback mechanisms. Utilization of the non-real-time (historical) key actuation information reduces the amount of circuitry necessary for correcting the operation of the actuators (i.e. solenoids) during playback on the instrument. By way of example, a programmable circuit element receives velocity information on previous key strikes for adjusting the actuator velocity output signal which will be generated for future key strikes. The accuracy of key strike normalization provided by this method approaches that which is achievable using real-time feedback, because the velocity profiles for each key remain substantially constant during playback.

Abstract: A system and method of non-proportionally adjusting hammer velocity in a player piano according to received note velocity information (i.e. in a MIDI stream) in response to volume level settings. The adjustments to the hammer (actuator) velocity are performed non-proportionally. Thus, the overall hammer strike velocity is reduced according to the current volume setting while the velocity difference between hammer strikes is not scaled down proportional to the reduction. In one embodiment an additive method is utilized which adds an offset based on volume setting in relation to a mid-volume setting to the input note velocity to generate an output strike force value which modulates hammer actuation control power. Utilizing the inventive system and method, piano playback at low volume settings retains more “crispness” than is achieved utilizing proportionally scaled note velocity methods.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing minimum note velocity compensation within a player piano, or other instrument, without compromising upper volume range note velocity consistency. The minimum note velocity which needs to be applied to each of the keys in order to generate an audible response, or a response discernable either acoustically, optically, or mechanically, is determined. The minimum note velocity information is stored within the driver circuit, such as in a separate table or as part of an expression table. The received note velocity value has fewer velocity states in its range of input values than are available for output by the driver circuit, wherein minimum note velocity compensation can be performed without detracting from upper end note velocity consistency. The compensation provides improved upper end velocity performance while providing the ability to accurately playback a MIDI stream that is not processed by the control box.