A summer project of mine is to take a look at optimizing the performance of fractional violins.  To accomplish this, I have been purchasing examples of 1/4 and 1/2 sized violins.  I am noticing that conventional string spacing leaves a lot of the fingerboard perimeter unused.  My preference is illustrated by the violin photo to the right of the forum page (yes, I know that it is a five string, but you get the idea).

In the ordinary scheme of things, it is easy enough to notch new positions in the bridge.  But the dimensions of extent bridges are not wide enough to do this.  I know that finger dimensions are proportional to the size of the violin.  Still, what I see does not look rational.  I think that the bridges should be slightly wider than the present convention.  

Comments from forum members with children or music teachers would be appreciated.