TONAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS FOR OUTDOOR INSTALLATION

Abstract

Tonal musical instruments configured for outdoor installation are disclosed. The tonal musical instrument may comprise a support post, wherein the support post is configured for attachment to an outdoor surface, at least one a non-vibrating guard, a metal plate tuned to produce at least one note on a musical scale when struck by a user, and one or more fasteners securing the at least one non-vibrating guard and the metal plate to the support post.

Claims

1. A tonal musical instrument for outdoor installation, the tonal musical instrument comprising: a support post, wherein the support post is configured to be mounted to an outdoor surface; one or more metal plates extending from the support post, each metal plate being tuned to produce at least one note on a musical scale when struck by a user; and a mallet attached to the support post by a cable; wherein the combination of the one or more metal plates and the support post replicate a flower.

2. The tonal musical instrument of claim 1, wherein the one or more metal plates are shaped as flowers or parts of a flower.

3. The tonal musical instrument of claim 2, wherein the support post is shaped as a flower stem.

4. The tonal musical instrument of claim 1, wherein the support post is curved to place the musical instrument at an angle for ease of play.

5. The tonal musical instrument of claim 1, comprising a plurality of metal plates attached to the support post, wherein the notes produced by the metal plates are from the same musical scale.

6. The tonal musical instrument of claim 5, wherein the metal plates are ordered by increasing pitch or decreasing pitch.

7. The tonal musical instrument of claim 1, wherein the instrument is configured to withstand prolonged outdoor use.

8. The tonal musical instrument of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more metal plates is configured to maintain its tonal quality without being retuned.

9. The tonal musical instrument of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more metal plates is configured such that a note is sustained for 5 seconds or longer.

10. The tonal musical instrument of claim 1, wherein the one or more metal plates are aluminum plates.

11. The tonal musical instrument of claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more metal plates is affixed to the end of the support post.

12. The tonal musical instrument of claim 11, further comprising one or more fasteners placed through the metal plate and a mounting plate of the support post.

13. The tonal musical instrument of claim 1, wherein the one or more metal plates are each milled to produce at least one note on a musical scale.

14. The tonal musical instrument of claim 1, wherein the musical instrument has a tonal note accuracy of least 90%.

15. The tonal musical instrument of claim 1, wherein the support post is permanently installed to the ground or a play surface in an outdoor environment.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] FIG. 1 depicts a tonal musical instrument in the shape of a flower in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

[0031] FIG. 2 depicts an aluminum plate in the shape of petals of a flower in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

[0032] FIG. 3 depicts a front guard in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

[0033] FIG. 4 depicts a back guard in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

[0034] FIG. 5 depicts a support post in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

[0035] FIG. 6 depicts a tonal musical instrument in the shape of a tree in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

[0036] FIG. 7 depicts a tonal musical instrument in the shape of hearts in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

[0037] FIG. 8 depicts a tonal musical instrument in the shape of a butterfly in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Tonal musical instruments configured for outdoor installation are disclosed. These instruments may be near-perfectly tuned and make musical expression accessible to everyone, regardless of age, ability or musical training. The simplest of motor skills are needed to activate pure harmonies, providing enjoyment for all players. The tonal musical instruments are also configured to withstand various outdoor environments.

[0039] In one embodiment the tonal musical instrument comprises at least one metal plate, at least non-vibrating guard, and at least one support post.

[0040] FIG. 1 depicts a tonal musical instrument in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the tonal musical instrument has the shape and appearance of a flower. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the flower-shaped tonal musical instrument 101 comprises a metal plate 102, a non-vibrating front guard 103, a non-vibrating back guard 104, a mallet 105, and a support post 106.

[0041] In some embodiments the height of the flower shaped tonal musical instrument 101 (from the base of the support post to the top of the metal plate) is at least 39 inches, alternatively at least 40 inches, alternatively at least 41 inches, alternatively at least 42 inches, alternatively at least 43 inches, alternatively at least 44 inches, alternatively at least 45 inches, alternatively at least 46 inches, alternatively at least 47 inches, or alternatively at least 48 inches.

[0042] In some embodiments, the depth of the flower shaped tonal musical instrument 101 (from the base of the support post to the top of the metal plate) is at least 11 inches, alternatively at least 12 inches, alternatively at least 13 inches, alternatively at least 14 inches, or alternatively at least 15 inches.

[0043] FIG. 2 depicts a metal plate 102 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. In the illustrated embodiment, the metal plate 102 is cut to resemble the petals of a flower, collectively known as the corolla. In other embodiments, the metal plate 102 may be cut to resemble other natural forms including, but not limited to petals, leaves, plants, branches, or other foliage. In some embodiments the width of the metal plate 102 is at least 19 inches, alternatively at least 20 inches, alternatively at least 21 inches, alternatively at least 22 inches, alternatively at least 23 inches, alternatively at least 24 inches, alternatively at least 25 inches, or alternatively at least 26 inches,

[0044] In some embodiments, the metal plate 102 has at least one segment 107 that will produce a note on a musical scale when stuck by a user. In some embodiments, the metal plate 102 has at least two segments 107 wherein each segment 107 produces at least one different note on a musical scale when stuck by a user. In some embodiments, such as that illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the metal plate 102 may have four segments 107 wherein each segment 107 produces at least one different note on a musical scale when stuck by a user. In some embodiments, the segments 107 may be of the same or substantially the same shape but may have different sizes. The different sizes of the segments 107 may provide for the production of different notes when struck by a user. In some embodiments, it may be desirable that the differences in size are relatively small compared to the overall size of the segments, such that the different segments have substantially similar appearances. In some embodiments, the segments 107 are arranged wherein the smallest segments 107 are at the bottom of the metal plate 102. This effect is shown for example in FIGS. 1 and 2, where the different “petal” sizes do not detract from the overall appearance of the metal plate as being a flower corolla.

[0045] In some embodiments, the notes produced by the instrument may all be within the same musical scale. In some embodiments, for example, the notes produced by the tonal musical instrument may fall within a pentatonic scale. A pentatonic scale is a musical scale with five notes per octave. Because of its relative simplicity, this scale may be used to introduce beginners to music. It is also common in many types of traditional music. In some embodiments, the notes produced by the tonal musical instrument may fall within a heptatonic scale, which is the most common 7-note scale used in Western music. In other embodiments, the notes produced by the tonal musical instrument may be of a diatonic scale, a tritonic scale, a tetratonic scale, a hexatonic scale, or an octatonic scale.

[0046] In some embodiments, a single metal plate 102 is used to produce each of the musical notes, such as through the incorporation of a plurality of segments 107. The use of a single metal plate 102 may reduce material costs and, in some instances may result in a more realistic biomimicry form.

[0047] In some embodiments, the metal plate 102 may be prepared by cutting from a sheet of metal, e.g., sheet aluminum. For instance, the metal plate may be cut by sawing, shearing, or chiseling (all with manual and powered variants); torching with hand-held torches (such as oxy-fuel torches or plasma torches); or via computer numerical control (CNC) cuts (using a laser, mill bits, torch, or water jet). In some embodiments, the metal plate 102 is at least ¼ in thick. In some embodiments, the metal plate 102 has rounded perimeter edges. In a further embodiment, the rounded edges are at least ⅛ in thick. In yet another embodiment, at least one hole 108 is drilled in the metal plate 102, preferably near the center or end of the metal plate 102. In the embodiment depicted by FIG. 2, for example, there are four holes 108 drilled near the center of the metal sheet. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6, on the other hand, there are two holes drilled near the end of the metal sheet.

[0048] In some embodiments, the metal plate may be an aluminum plate. Moreover, the surface of the aluminum plate may be anodized to provide corrosion resistance and/or a decorative finish.

[0049] In some embodiments, the metal plate 102 and/or the individual segments 107 of the metal plate may be tuned by milling a rear surface of the metal plate. Milling is the process of cutting or scraping to remove material from a metal surface. This milling process allows for the ability to make minute adjustments to the thickness of the metal plate 102 and/or the individual segments 107.

[0050] This milling process allows for accurate tuning of the tonal musical instrument. For instance, in order to increase the sharpness of the sound being produced, one may mill from the outer edge of the note-producing metal plate 102 or segment 107 toward the center of the note-producing metal plate or segment. Alternatively, in order to increase the flatness of the sound being produced, one may mill from the center of the note-producing metal plate 102 or segment 107 toward the outer edge of the note-producing metal plate or segment. Tuning of the instrument through milling may be accompanied and facilitated by the use of an electronic tuner or the like.

[0051] This allows for the production of very tonally accurate note-producing metal plates 102 and segments 107. In some embodiments, for instance, the tonal musical instruments may have a tonal note accuracy of at least 90%, preferably 95%, and more preferably 99%. This milling process is a unique and novel technique for tuning instruments for outdoor use. Fine tune milling allows for the achievement of a precise musical note on the tonal scale, rather than the typical atonal chimes found in conventional outdoor instruments. Furthermore, the tonal musical instruments will maintain the tonal accuracy throughout its outdoor exposure.

[0052] In some embodiments, the tonal notes are randomized on the metal plates 102 or segments 107. In another embodiment, the tonal notes are ordered by increasing pitch on the metal plates 102 or segments 107. And in yet another embodiment, the tonal notes are ordered by decreasing pitch on the metal plates 102 or segments 107.

[0053] In some embodiments, the tonal musical instrument 101 may further comprise at least one non-vibrating element. In some embodiments, the non-vibrating element may comprise a front guard 103. In yet another embodiment, the non-vibrating element may comprise a back guard 104. In yet a further embodiment, both the front guard 103 and back guard 104 may be present. Embodiments of the front and rear guards 103, 104 are shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. In some embodiments, the non-vibrating elements allow for the sounds from the tonal musical instrument to be sustained in the absence of elastomeric components. In some embodiments, the addition of elastomeric material may be used for non-vibrating elements in order to preserve the non-vibrating characteristics. In some embodiments, there are elastomeric components between the non-vibrating element and metal plate 102. In some embodiment, the elastomeric components are synthetic or natural rubber.

[0054] In some embodiments, the front guard 103 may be plastic. In other embodiments the front guard 103 may be thermoplastic, including, but not limited to High-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polyethylene high-density (PEHD). In yet another embodiment the front guard 103 comprises an inner hub and an outer hub. In some embodiments, the outer hub is at least ⅜ in thick. In some embodiments, the inner hub is at least ⅝ in thick. In some embodiments, the front guard 103 comprises at least one hole. In yet another embodiment the front guard 103 may comprise four holes. The holes may allow for the attachment of the front guard 103 to the metal plate 102 and/or the support post 106.

[0055] In some embodiments the front guard 103 is metal. In another embodiment, the front guard has a rectangular portion with at least one hole which allows for the attachment of the front guard 103 to the metal plate 102 and/or the support post 106.

[0056] In yet another embodiment the tonal musical instrument 101 comprises a back guard 104 may be plastic. In other embodiments the back guard 104 may be thermoplastic, including, but not limited to High-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polyethylene high-density (PEHD). In yet another embodiment the back guard 104 has raised sections that are at least ¾ in thick. In some embodiments, the back guard 104 comprises at least one hole. In yet another embodiment the back guard 104 may comprise four holes, wherein the holes are evenly distributed on the raised sections 152. The holes may allow for the attachment of the front guard 103 to the metal plate 102 and/or the support post 106.

[0057] In some embodiments, the back guard 104 is metal. In another embodiment, the front guard has a rectangular portion with at least one hole which allows for the attachment of the back guard 104 to the metal plate 102 and/or the support post 106.

[0058] In some embodiments, the front guard 103 and back guard 104 are pre-attached to the metal plate 102.

[0059] Embodiments of the tonal musical instrument produce notes that are sustained for a relatively long period of time. For example, in some embodiments, the rear surface of the metal plate 102 and/or the individual segments of a metal plate 107 may be configured to have a specific curvature, which provides for a sustained vibration of the plate and thus a sustained resonation of sound. Most instruments which have sustained notes require a separate sustainer, which typically comprises one or more elastomeric elements, to extend the sound when a note on an instrument is played. However, the tonal musical instruments of the present disclosure provide a self-sustained sound in the absence of any additional elastomeric component. For example, in some embodiments, the non-vibrating guard allows the metal sheet 102 to be hard bolted to a support post 106 which eliminates the need for any elastomeric components to sustain sound by restricting the movement of the sound waves.

[0060] In some embodiments, for example, the sounds can be sustained for at least 5 seconds, alternatively at least 10 seconds, alternatively at least 15 seconds, alternatively at least 20 seconds, alternatively at least 25 seconds. In yet another embodiment the sounds can be sustained for up to 30 seconds.

[0061] The tonal musical instrument 101 may also comprise a support post 106. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the support post 106 may comprise an upper mounting plate 150, to which the metal plate may be mounted, and a lower base plate 151. In some embodiments, the mounting plate 150 may be configured to be non-vibrating. For instance, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the upper end of the support post 106 comprises a mounting plate 150. The bottom end of the support post 106 comprises a base plate.

[0062] In some embodiments, the support post 106 may be metal, including, but not limited to, steel. In some embodiments, for example, the support post 106 may comprise a galvanized steel pipe. In another embodiment, the support post 106 may be a powder coated steel frame.

[0063] In some embodiments, the support 106 post may extend vertically from the ground or playground surface to which it is installed, thereby placing the one or more metal plates 102 at a desired elevation for striking by users of varying heights. In some embodiments, the support post 106 may be straight. In other embodiments, the support post 106 may be curved or angled so as to place a mounting plate 150, and hence the metal plate or plates 102, at a desirable angle.

[0064] In some embodiments, the mounting plate 150 may comprise one or more apertures. The one or more apertures may be configured for attachment of the support post 106 to one or more of the metal sheet 102, front guard 103, and the back guard 104. In some embodiments, the mounting plate 150 is permanently connected to the support post 106, such as through welding.

[0065] In some embodiments, the base plate 151 may comprise one or more apertures. The one or more apertures allow for attachment of the support post 106 to an outdoor surface including, but not limited to, the ground or composite materials such as concrete or another surfacing, including playground surfacing. In some embodiments, the support post 106 is attached semi-permanently to the ground or a secondary surface. In yet another embodiment the support post 106 is attached permanently to the ground or a secondary surface. This attachment allows for the tonal musical instrument to withstand the outdoor environment and protects the instrument from theft or vandalism. In yet another embodiment the support post is attached to a concrete pad. In some embodiment the concrete pad is at least 16 inches long, at least 16 inches wide and at least 6 inches thick. If the concrete pad is at an angle, spacers or shims, including, but not limited to steel washers, are used.

[0066] The tonal musical instrument 101 may also comprise one or more mallets 105. In some embodiments, each mallet may be attached to the support post 106, such as through a cable. In some embodiments, the head of the mallet 105 may be plastic. For example, in some embodiments, the head of the mallet 105 may be polyurethane. In some embodiments, the head of the mallet may have a durometer between about 60 and about 80, alternatively between about 65 and about 75. In some embodiments, the head of the mallet may have a durometer of about 70.

[0067] Some embodiments of the tonal musical instrument 101 comprise, a support post 106, wherein the support post 106 is configured for attachment to an outdoor surface, a non-vibrating back guard 104, a metal plate 102 tuned to produce at least one note on a scale, a non-vibrating front guard 103, and a fastener 200, wherein the fastener 200 is placed through the front guard 103, metal plate 102, and back guard 104 to secure the components to the support post 106. In some embodiments, the fastener 200 can include but is not limited to, screws and/or bolts. This unique attachment allows for the vibrating metal plate 102 to be attached to the non-vibrating front 103 and back 104 guards rather than direct attachment to the support post 106. This attachment can be permanent or semi-permanent. In some embodiments, one or more mallets 105 may be further attached to the support post.

[0068] FIG. 6 depicts a tonal musical instrument in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the tonal musical instrument has the shape and appearance of a tree. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the tree-shaped tonal musical instrument 301 comprises several metal plates 102, several non-vibrating guards 108, several mallets 105, and a central support post 106. Each of the several metal plates 102 may be configured to produce a distinct musical note.

[0069] FIG. 7 depicts a tonal musical instrument in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the tonal musical instrument has the shape and appearance of a series of hearts. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the tonal musical instrument 401 comprises several metal plates 102, several non-vibrating guards, and a central support post 106. Each of the several metal plates 102 may be configured to produce a distinct musical note.

[0070] FIG. 8 depicts a tonal musical instrument in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the tonal musical instrument has the shape and appearance of a butterfly. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the tonal musical instrument 501 comprises a metal plate 102, with two segments 107, and a handle 108. Each of the segments 107 may be configured to produce a distinct musical note. In some embodiments, the instruments may also be configured to enhance music education. For instance, in some embodiments, each note may be clearly identified on the instrument. For example, one or more of the metal plates or segments of a metal plate may comprise a marking, such as an inscription on the metal plate, indicating the note that is played upon striking a particular area. In some embodiments, the instrument may also contain notes from multiple scales. For example, some instruments may have a Major scale on one metal plate or segment and a corresponding Minor scale on a different metal plate or segment. In addition to fun musical exploration, this may provide education about various musical scales.

[0071] It is to be understood that while a certain form of the invention is illustrated, it is not to be limited to the specific form or arrangement herein described and shown. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention, and the invention is not to be considered limited to what is shown and described in the specification and any drawings/figures included herein.

[0072] One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is well adapted to carry out the objectives and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. The embodiments, methods, procedures, and techniques described herein are presently representative of the preferred embodiments, are intended to be exemplary and are not intended as limitations on the scope. Changes therein and other uses will occur to those skilled in the art which are encompassed within the spirit of the invention and are defined by the scope of the appended claims. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which is obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.