Abstract: A stringed instrument, such as a violin, is provided wherein the bridge of the instrument rests on a resonator bar, and the resonator bar has a plurality of individually-tuned resonators. A pickup, either electronic or acoustic, is coupled to the resonator bar. The output can be purely acoustic or, if an electronic transducer is used, it can be coupled to an amplifier and the output made almost entirely electronic. A mixed electronic and acoustic output can also be obtained. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a variable damping feature is provided.

Abstract: A contact lens insertion and removal device is provided having a cup or similar concave assembly for receiving the lens with a light path for providing a light through the cup and device for applying vacuum or pressure to the cup. Additionally, an arm can be provided for distorting the cup to distort the lens, breaking the bond between the lens and the eye. The device is suitable for use with hard, soft or other contact lenses or may be used with plastic eye bandages.