Custom CNC bridges

[TonyinNYC]

I mentioned in a thread once at another forum that I strongly dislike making bridges. A member, Andy Birko sent me a PM asking if I would want to work with him and his new CNC to design and cut my bridges. Well, saying I strongly dislike making bridges is not entirely accurate. I very strongly dislike making bridges. I had a sketch of the design I wanted to make, but I was not successful in my attempts to make the real thing look like my drawing. I added some notes to my drawing and sent it to Andy. Here is that drawing:


Here is one of the mock ups Andy made in Solidworks:



Andy and I spoke a couple of times, emailed several dozen times, and finally Andy was set to cut the first prototype. Here is the prototype cut from scrap wood:



And here is the prototype on a box:



I am more than happy with how the bridge came out. There are a couple of refinements Andy wants to make to the path of the cutter doo-dad, but all in all, I could not be happier with the results. I don't know for sure if any other bridge like this exists, or not, but I am very happy right now. I can't wait to send some real wood to get cut!
Pretty cool, no?

Tony

[Dave Bagwill]

Tres cool, mi ami.

[TonyinNYC]

Thanks dude!

[John Parchem]

That is cool Tony. I have not seen a bridge like it.

[TonyinNYC]

Thanks John! I have not either but it might be out there!

[Bob Matthews]

Fantastic Tony and what a time saver, I like the design.

A couple of comments tho, have you weighed the bridge when made from your usual timber of choice?
You may find it comes in a little on the weighty side, I aim for between 15 and 20 grams as this allows the top to vibrate and respond with much more freedom. (Why stick a 2oz lump ontop of a lightly braced soundboard, my first bridge made from ebony weighed 40g) This reduction in weight could be achieved by relieving the 'belly' at the back of the bridge although it might compromise your design, rounding over the front edge could help too.

Here's a pic of where I'm at.

Bob

[TonyinNYC]

Not yet Bob. That is phase two of prototype testing. I have to send some bridge blanks of my typical woods to be cut. Then I can weigh them to see it this design will really work. I have not even weighed this one yet. Probably should do that tonight!