Headjoint crown assembly with extension unit
US8653347B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 10, 2012 |
| Grant date | Feb 18, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 14, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG10D9/10
- WIPO fieldOther consumer goods
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
Crown assemblies are described, having novel extension units, selectable vibrational lengths, stoppers with flexible coupling to the crown and regulated pressure against a headjoint tube, and crowns with radial-arm contact surfaces. The novel extension units are situated between the embouchure and the crown and extend the vibrational length between those points. This extension gives the flute tone greater depth and resonance and gives the player greater control over the vibration of the flute tube. A selectable extension unit features distinct vibrational lengths at indexed points of rotation of the crown, providing a means for rapidly changing the tone and response of the instrument in a fashion heretofore unknown on flutes. Improvements to crown and stopper design allow freer vibration of the headjoint tube between embouchure and crown, further enhancing the benefits of the novel extension unit.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.