U.S. patent application number 11/107135 was filed with the patent office on 2006-01-19 for specialized strap system.
This patent application is currently assigned to SOTA Music, Inc.. Invention is credited to Ryan J. Matzinger, Robert L. Warren.
Application Number | 20060010657 11/107135 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35451328 |
Filed Date | 2006-01-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060010657 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Warren; Robert L. ; et
al. |
January 19, 2006 |
Specialized strap system
Abstract
The present invention provides an advantageous strap system for
use with various objects, such as musical instruments, tools, or
other objects that can be carried or supported using a neck strap.
In an example embodiment of the present invention, a strap system
is provided which comprises a fabric neck loop having two ends and
a first connection component affixed to at least one end of the
neck loop. A connection strap comprising a length of fabric is
provided. A second connection component is affixed to a first end
of the connection strap for enabling a connection with the first
connection component. A connection means may be affixed to a second
end of the connection strap for enabling a connection between an
object and the connection strap. The connection means may comprise
a hook, a snap ring, or the like.
Inventors: |
Warren; Robert L.; (Solana
Beach, CA) ; Matzinger; Ryan J.; (San Diego,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Lipsitz & McAllister, LLC
755 MAIN STREET
MONROE
CT
06468
US
|
Assignee: |
SOTA Music, Inc.
Solana Beach
CA
|
Family ID: |
35451328 |
Appl. No.: |
11/107135 |
Filed: |
April 14, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60572890 |
May 20, 2004 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
24/3.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G10G 5/005 20130101;
A45F 3/14 20130101; Y10T 24/13 20150115 |
Class at
Publication: |
024/003.1 |
International
Class: |
A44B 21/00 20060101
A44B021/00 |
Claims
1. A strap system, comprising: a fabric neck loop having two ends;
a first connection component affixed to at least one end of said
neck loop; a connection strap comprising a length of fabric; a
second connection component affixed to a first end of said
connection strap for enabling a releasable connection with said
first connection component; and a connection means affixed to a
second end of said connection strap for enabling a releasable
connection between an object and the connection strap.
2. A strap system in accordance with claim 1, wherein said
connection means comprises one of a hook or a snap ring.
3. A strap system in accordance with claim 1, wherein said fabric
of said neck loop comprises a fabric designed to wick moisture away
from skin of a user.
4. A strap system in accordance with claim 1, wherein said fabric
of said neck loop comprises an outer layer comprised of a wicking
fabric and an inner layer comprised of a flexible reinforcing
material.
5. A strap system in accordance with claim 4, wherein said outer
layer is removable.
6. A strap system in accordance with claim 1, wherein: the first
connection component is affixed to both ends of the neck loop,
forming a closed loop.
7. A strap system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the first
connection component is affixed to one end of the neck loop,
further comprising: a third connection component affixed to the
other end of said neck loop; a fourth connection component affixed
to said first connection component for enabling a releasable
connection between the third connection component; said connection
between the third and fourth connection component enabling the neck
loop to be opened or closed.
8. A strap system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the first
connection component is affixed to one end of the neck loop,
further comprising: a third connection component affixed to the
other end of said neck loop; a junction connector having three
connection components for enabling releasable connections with the
first connection component of the neck loop, the second connection
component of the connection strap, and the third connection
component of the neck loop.
9. A strap system in accordance with claim 1, further comprising an
adjustable element for adjusting an overall length of strap
system.
10. A strap system in accordance with claim 9, wherein the
adjustable element is provided on at least one of the neck loop and
the connection strap.
11. A strap system in accordance with claim 1, wherein said object
comprises one of a musical instrument or a tool.
12. A strap system in accordance with claim 1, wherein said
connection strap comprises means for identification of at least one
of an owner of the object, the object, and an object type.
13. A strap system in accordance with claim 1, wherein said neck
loop comprises means for identification of at least one of an owner
of the object, the object, and an object type.
14. A strap system in accordance with claim 1, wherein said
connection strap is designed for use as a handle for picking up
said object when connected thereto.
15. A strap system in accordance with claim 1, further comprising
decorative elements on at least one of said neck loop and said
connection strap.
16. A strap system, comprising: a fabric neck loop; a connection
strap comprising a length of fabric releasably connected to the
neck loop; and a connection means affixed to said connection strap
for enabling a releasable connection between an object and the
connection strap.
17. A strap system in accordance with claim 16, wherein said
connection means comprises one of a hook or a snap ring.
18. A strap system in accordance with claim 16, wherein said fabric
of said neck loop comprises a fabric designed to wick moisture away
from skin of a user.
19. A strap system in accordance with claim 16, wherein said fabric
of said neck loop comprises an outer layer comprised of a wicking
fabric and an inner layer comprised of a flexible reinforcing
material.
20. A strap system in accordance with claim 19, wherein said outer
layer is removable.
21. A strap system in accordance with claim 16, further comprising
an adjustable element for adjusting an overall length of strap
system.
22. A strap system in accordance with claim 21, wherein the
adjustable element is provided on at least one of the neck loop and
the connection strap.
23. A strap system in accordance with claim 16, wherein said object
comprises one of a musical instrument or a tool.
24. A strap system in accordance with claim 16, wherein at least
one of said connection strap and said neck loop comprises means for
identification of at least one of an owner of the object, the
object, and an object type.
25. A strap system in accordance with claim 16, wherein said
connection strap is designed for use as a handle for picking up
said object when connected thereto.
26. A strap system in accordance with claim 16, further comprising
decorative elements on at least one of said neck loop and said
connection strap.
27. A strap system in accordance with claim 16, further comprising:
at least one releasable connection in said neck loop allowing said
neck loop to be opened.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional
patent application No. 60/572,890, filed on May 20, 2004.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to the field of musical
instruments. More particularly, the present invention provides a
specialized strap system to be used by, for example, various
musicians, including saxophone players, which allows, for example,
the ability to easily change horns without requiring multiple
straps or re-adjusting one strap.
[0003] Any professional relies on tools to perfect their trade.
Certainly musicians are among the most visible in the use of their
tools. The most evident tools are the instruments they play. There
are, however, many tools used by musicians that go largely
unnoticed and, therefore, remain largely untouched by
innovation.
[0004] One such tool is the focus of the present invention: the
strap used by various musicians, especially woodwind players.
Woodwind players, most notably saxophone players, rely on a strap
around their neck or shoulders to help support their instrument.
The strap is not only used to help bear the weight of the
instrument, but when used properly may provide a reference point
for a performer's interaction with the horn at the mouthpiece and
keys.
[0005] Straps have been around since the introduction of the
instruments. Whether a woodwind player, guitarist, or marching band
drummer, straps are a necessary part of the performer's kit.
[0006] Because musicians' straps go largely unnoticed there has
been little innovation in this area. Considering saxophone straps
as an example of the dearth of innovation, there has been little
change in the past decade and minor evolution in the preceding
time. Originally, a simple neck strap was provided with a hook to
hold the horn. Limited modifications have been added to this basic
strap, including adding pads to the strap, as is the case in the
traditional model typically used today.
[0007] Most recently, Neotek.TM. developed a strap built of
neoprene rubber to integrate the pad into the strap. Still others
like DeJacques.TM. created a new adjustment mechanism and hook used
to secure the strap to the horn.
[0008] Each of these prior art designs has drawbacks. In the case
of traditional straps, comfort of the weight around the wearer's
neck is an issue. While weight-bearing comfort was addressed with
designs incorporating neoprene, those designs exacerbated another
problem. That problem is the fact that after a short time of wear,
the strap area becomes warm and can cause perspiration build up.
This can cause the strap to be uncomfortable not only during the
performance but, because many such straps do not dry quickly, also
during performances over the subsequent days.
[0009] An issue with each of these straps, in addition to padding
or moisture retention, is the adjustability. While adjustability is
inherent in most designs and is critical to a performer's ability
to play well, some designs are preferred over others based on
various factors. There is a trade-off between the ease of
adjustment and the ability for the adjustment to stay fixed in a
set position. The ability of the adjusted strap to stay fixed in
its adjusted position is particularly an issue for performers who
are active and moving during their performance. For those who are
relatively static while playing, ease of adjustment may be
preferred over the ability to stay securely fixed in position.
[0010] This trade-off is understood no better than by a performer
who plays different horns during a performance and has to choose
between adjusting a single strap to fit different horns or wearing
multiple straps. Use of multiple straps, while making changing
horns quickly easier, has the additional drawback of having
multiple straps that become wet with perspiration.
[0011] These shortcomings in the prior art are the focus of the
invention disclosed herein. The features of this invention rely on
novel applications of various elements to improve the overall
experience of the performer using the invention. It would be
advantageous to provide a strap system that allows for wicking of
moisture away from the skin and for the dissipation of heat build
up and washability for hygienic purposes. It would be further
advantageous to provide for ease of adjustment of the strap. It
would be particularly advantageous to provide a strap system that
allows for easy connection and/or disconnection to an instrument
and ease of adjustability.
[0012] The present invention provides the foregoing and other
advantages.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The present invention provides an advantageous strap system
for use with various objects, such as musical instruments, tools,
or other objects which can be carried or supported using a neck
strap. In an example embodiment of the present invention, a strap
system is provided which comprises a fabric neck loop having two
ends and a first connection component affixed to at least one end
of the neck loop. A connection strap comprising a length of fabric
is provided. A second connection component is affixed to a first
end of the connection strap for enabling a releasable connection
with the first connection component. A connection means may be
affixed to a second end of the connection strap for enabling a
releasable connection between an object and the connection strap.
The connection means may comprise a hook, a snap ring, or the
like.
[0014] The fabric of the neck loop may comprise a fabric designed
to wick moisture away from the skin of a user. Further, the fabric
of the neck loop may comprise an outer layer comprised of such a
wicking fabric and an inner layer comprised of a flexible
reinforcing material, such as a mesh-type material. The outer
wicking layer may be removable to allow for replacement or for
cleaning.
[0015] In one example embodiment, the first connection component is
affixed to both ends of the neck loop, forming a closed loop.
[0016] In a further example embodiment, the first connection
component is affixed to one end of the neck loop and a third
connection component affixed to the other end of the neck loop. A
fourth connection component is affixed to the first connection
component for enabling a releasable connection between the third
connection component. The connection between the third and fourth
connection component enables the neck loop to be opened or
closed.
[0017] In an alternative example embodiment, the first connection
component is affixed to one end of the neck loop and a third
connection component is affixed to the other end of the neck loop.
A junction connector is provided which has three connection
components for enabling releasable connections with the first
connection component of the neck loop, the second connection
component of the connection strap, and the third connection
component of the neck loop.
[0018] An adjustable element for adjusting an overall length of
strap system may be provided, either on the neck loop, the
connection strap, or both.
[0019] The object to be connected to the connection strap may be,
for example, a musical instrument, a tool, or the like.
[0020] The connection strap and/or the neck loop may have means for
identification of at least one of an owner of the object, the
object, an object type, or similar information. Further, the
connection strap may be designed for use as a handle for picking up
the object when connected thereto. Decorative elements may also be
provided on at least one of the neck loop and the connection
strap.
[0021] In another example embodiment, the strap system may comprise
a fabric neck loop, a connection strap comprising a length of
fabric releasably connected to the neck loop, and a connection
means affixed to the connection strap for enabling a connection
between an object and the connection strap. Further, at least one
releasable connection may be provided in the neck loop allowing the
neck loop to be opened.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] The present invention will hereinafter be described in
conjunction with the appended drawing figures, wherein like
numerals denote like elements, and:
[0023] FIG. 1 shows an example embodiment of a prior art instrument
strap;
[0024] FIG. 2 shows an example embodiment of a strap system in
accordance with the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 3 shows an example embodiment of a fabric strap that
may be used with an example embodiment of the present
invention;
[0026] FIG. 4 shows a further example embodiment of a strap system
in accordance with the present invention; and
[0027] FIG. 5 shows an example embodiment of a junction connector
in accordance with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] The ensuing detailed description provides preferred
exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope,
applicability, or configuration of the invention. Rather, the
ensuing detailed description of the preferred exemplary embodiments
will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description
for implementing a preferred embodiment of the invention. It should
be understood that various changes may be made in the function and
arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope
of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.
[0029] The present invention provides a specialized strap system
for holding objects, in particular, musical instruments. It should
be noted that while the present invention is described herein for
the purposes and benefit of a musicians, those skilled in the art
will appreciate that the features of the resent invention are
equally applicable to any number of other users, including
technicians using tools, or others that require the use of a strap
connected to an object.
[0030] For the sake of understanding the present invention, it is
important to consider a standard prior art woodwind strap as shown
in FIG. 1. This prior art strap 100 is comprised of three major
components. A neck loop 101 of the strap 100 typically goes around
the performer's neck. Adjustment means 102 provides the performer
with the ability to adjust the length of the strap 100, thereby
raising and lowering hook 103, which connects to a retaining loop
on the instrument. For the purposes of this example, a typical hook
is shown. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a wide
range of hooks of alternate design are well known. The particular
design of the hook 103 is not a specific topic of this invention,
and any known hook can be used with the invention.
[0031] The strap 100 may be a single continuous piece of material
or made up of several pieces. Typically made of leather, canvas or
other heavy woven fabric, the strap 100 is the key interface to the
performer. The width, weight and pliability of the fabric all
factor into the way the loop 101 of the strap 100 lays around the
neck of the performer. Some straps have an additional pad to help
make the strap more comfortable during use. As stated previously,
some models integrate a spongy rubber like neoprene, which is
common in diver's wetsuits to help provide an additional cushion
around the neck.
[0032] The nature of the material used for the strap 100 usually
causes heat to build up under the neck loop 101. For some, this is
not a problem of great consequence. For others, particularly those
who perform on a stage under bright lights, this is a major issue
and a cause for discomfort due to heat and the generation of
perspiration on the part of the performer.
[0033] An example embodiment of a strap system 200 in accordance
the present invention is shown in FIG. 2. A fabric neck loop 201 is
provided which has ends 208, 209 thereof meeting at a junction 207.
Both ends 208, 209 of the fabric neck loop may be directly affixed
to a connection component 202 as shown in FIG. 2, forming a closed
loop. Alternative embodiments incorporating additional connecting
pieces to provide a reinforced or extended connection are discussed
in more detail below in connection with FIGS. 4 and 5.
[0034] The use of a connection component 202 at junction 207
provides a two-piece strap system 200, with the neck loop portion
201 comprising one part of the strap system 200. The second part of
the two-piece strap system 200 is connection strap 203. The
connection strap 203 may comprise a length of fabric that can be
connected to an object, such as a musical instrument, a tool, or
the like. For consistency and ease of explanation, connection strap
203 is also referred to herein as instrument strap 203. Instrument
strap 203 may comprise a short piece of strap material with
connection component 204 affixed to an end thereof. Connection
component 204 is designed to releasably mate with the corresponding
connection component 202. The instrument strap 203 can therefor be
connected to the neck loop 201 via the connection components 202,
204. For example, one of the connection components 202, 204 may
comprise a male connection component, and the other of the
connection components may comprise a female connection component.
It should also be appreciated that the connection components herein
are of the type that form easily releasable connections. Those
skilled in the art will appreciate that other types of connection
components may also be used with the present invention.
[0035] The instrument strap 203 may also include an adjustable
element 205 to allow for variations in the overall length of the
strap system 200. The adjustable element 205 may comprise an
adjustment buckle (e.g., similar to those found on backpack straps
or the like) which allows one to adjust the overall length of the
strap. The adjustable element 205 may alternatively be located on
the neck loop 201. It will also be appreciated that an adjustable
element can be provided both on the neck loop 201 and the
instrument strap 203.
[0036] The instrument strap 203 may also include a connection means
206 to connect the instrument strap 203 to the object, tool, or
instrument (not shown). This connection means 206 may take a number
of forms, from a simple hook to a more elaborate connector system
as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. For example,
the connection means 206 may be of the type that allows a more
stable or permanent connection to the instrument than that achieved
by an open hook. Such connection means 206 may include the use of a
snap ring or other connection between the instrument and the
instrument strap 203. Such a connection would allow for additional
benefits, including a reliable means for handling the
instrument.
[0037] A significant advantage of the strap system 200 is that a
performer who desires to use multiple instruments during a
performance can wear a single neck loop 201 and attach it to
different instrument straps 203, which can be individually adjusted
to a desired length prior to the performance. Each of the different
instrument straps 203 can be pre-connected to a different
instrument and adjusted accordingly. This "quick-release" system
has the advantage of minimizing adjustments of the strap system 200
during a performance. Further, by having multiple instrument straps
203 in place on various instruments prior to a performance, the
performer can use it to quickly pick up or change instruments when
desired. This is particularly useful with instruments like
saxophones, for which avoiding handling the brass surface with
sweaty hands is preferred.
[0038] The instrument strap 203 may also provide a means of quick
identification of an instrument. Such quick identification may come
in the form of using a particular color instrument strap 203 or by
including information, like the owner's name, the type of object,
or the like, on the instrument strap 203. Decorative elements and
designs can also be provided on the neck loop 200 and/or the
instrument strap 203. Such decorative elements or identification
information may be imprinted, embroidered, or otherwise affixed
directly onto the fabric of the neck loop 201 or instrument strap
203. Alternatively, a clear plastic pouch may be provided on the
neck loop 201 or instrument strap 203, such as, for example, pouch
210 as shown on instrument strap 203.
[0039] In an example embodiment of the present invention, a
specialized fabric may be used as the basis for the neck loop 201.
Such fabric may be woven in a manner to allow, at a minimum, for
moisture to pass through quickly for evaporation, but more ideally
to provide a wicking capability. Such wicking capability will help
remove any perspiration away from the user's body. Wicking fabric
is in use today in a wide range of applications, but is most well
known in sportswear applications. It should be appreciated that the
neck loop 201 and the instrument strap 203 may be made of the same
fabric or of different fabrics. For example, while it would be
advantageous to provide the neck loop 201 in a wicking fabric, it
is not as critical that the instrument strap 203 be made of such a
wicking fabric. Therefore, the instrument strap 203 may be made of
a cheaper, non-wicking fabric.
[0040] Because some performers need additional support for their
instruments or have instruments of different sizes and weights, a
mesh or other reinforcing material may be used along with the
specialized fabric to give a stronger two-layered strap. This is
particularly suitable for heavier instruments like baritone
saxophones. A cross-section of such a material is shown in FIG. 3,
with the wicking fabric 301 providing a cover for a flexible
supportive reinforcing mesh 302. The advantage of using a
reinforcing mesh 302 inside of a wicking fabric 301 is that
moisture can pass readily through for evaporation from the wearer's
skin. Another advantage of using such fabrics instead of
traditional materials is that the strap can be easily washed and
dried for frequent use without the common issues of material
deterioration.
[0041] The use of the inner support fabric 302 may allow for the
outer wicking fabric 301 to be removed. For example, a cover made
of the wicking fabric 301 may be easily removed and replaced via a
means like Velcro, or by threading the mesh 302 through the cover
301 (e.g., where the cover is a tubular component), or other simple
attachment means. Such a removable feature will allow a user to
customize the strap by changing fabric colors or other aspects of
the design. Of course, a user may simply choose to rely on the
strap of reinforcing mesh fabric 302 and not rely on any particular
covering.
[0042] A further example embodiment of a strap system 400 in
accordance with the present invention is shown in FIG. 4. As shown
in FIG. 4, at least one of the ends 408, 409 of the neck loop 401
of the strap system 400 (e.g., end 409) may terminate with a
connection component 402. This connection component 402 may be
adapted to releasably mate with a connection component 403,
allowing the neck loop 401 to be opened and closed. Connection
component 403 may be connected in a permanent manner to connection
component 404, which in turn is connected to the other end 408 of
the neck loop 401. Connection component 404 can mate with
connection component 204 of the instrument strap 203, as discussed
above in connection with FIG. 2.
[0043] In an alternative example embodiment as shown in FIG. 5,
connection components 402, 405 may be provided on both ends 408,
409, respectively, of the neck loop 401. These connection
components 402, 405 are designed to releasably mate with
corresponding connection components 403, 406 on a junction
connector 501. A third connection component 407 on the junction
connector 501 is designed to mate with connection component 204 on
the instrument strap 203. As can be appreciated by those skilled in
the art, further flexibility is obtained by providing a junction
connector 501 having three connection points. Such an arrangement
will allow for maximum flexibility to the user by allowing for all
components to be interchanged with minimum difficulty.
[0044] It should now be appreciated that the present invention
provides an advantageous strap system for use with, for example,
musical instruments.
[0045] Although the invention has been described in connection with
various illustrated embodiments, numerous modifications and
adaptations may be made thereto without departing from the spirit
and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims.
* * * * *