U.S. patent application number 11/519458 was filed with the patent office on 2008-03-13 for sheet music stand.
Invention is credited to Jeffrey D. Carnevali.
Application Number | 20080061210 11/519458 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39168606 |
Filed Date | 2008-03-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080061210 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Carnevali; Jeffrey D. |
March 13, 2008 |
Sheet music stand
Abstract
A novel detachable music stand that is universally positionable
by operating a sheet music retention device in a spherical
coordinate system, and method for positionally adjusting a sheet
music retention device of the detachable music stand within the
spherical coordinate frame. According to one aspect of the
invention the novel detachable music stand is provided by two
releasably interlockable rotationally and spherically rotatable
ball-and-socket components that are formed between a substantially
rigid spacing component and two part-spherical couplers. A suction
cup clamp mechanism is coupled to one of the two part-spherical
couplers, and a sheet music tray being coupled to a different one
of the two part-spherical couplers.
Inventors: |
Carnevali; Jeffrey D.;
(Seattle, WA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CHARLES J RUPNICK
PO BOX 46752
SEATTLE
WA
98146
US
|
Family ID: |
39168606 |
Appl. No.: |
11/519458 |
Filed: |
September 11, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
248/447 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 23/043 20130101;
A47B 23/004 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
248/447 |
International
Class: |
A47B 97/04 20060101
A47B097/04 |
Claims
1: A universal detachable sheet music stand that provides
positional adjustments within a spherical coordinate frame, the
stand comprising: two releasably interlockable rotationally and
spherically rotatable ball-and-socket components formed between a
substantially rigid spacing component and two part-spherical
couplers; a suction cup clamp mechanism having a frame coupled to
one of the two part-spherical couplers; and a sheet music retention
device having a portion coupled to a different one of the two
part-spherical couplers.
2: The stand of claim 1 wherein at least a first one of the two
part-spherical couplers further comprises a resiliently deformable
material having a substantially smooth part spherical outer
surface.
3: The stand of claim 2 wherein the spacing component further
comprises two substantially rigid arm sections forming two pairs of
sockets therebetween, at least a first pair of the two pairs of
sockets having substantially smooth and rigid concave interior
surfaces shaped to substantially conform to the part spherical
outer surface portion of the first resiliently deformable
part-spherical coupler.
4: The stand of claim 3, further comprising an adjustable clamping
mechanism operable between the two substantially rigid arm sections
for urging the substantially smooth and rigid concave interior
surfaces of the first pair of sockets to form a first one of the
rotationally and spherically rotatable ball-and-socket components
with the first resiliently deformable part-spherical coupler, and
being further operable between the two substantially rigid arm
sections for urging the substantially smooth and rigid concave
interior surfaces of the first pair of sockets to releasably
interlock with the outer surface of the first resiliently
deformable part-spherical coupler.
5: The stand of claim 4 wherein a second one of the two
part-spherical couplers further comprises a resiliently deformable
material having a substantially smooth part spherical outer
surface; a second pair of the two pairs of sockets formed between
substantially rigid arm sections further comprises substantially
smooth and rigid concave interior surfaces shaped to substantially
conform to the part spherical outer surface portion of the second
resiliently deformable part-spherical coupler; and the adjustable
clamping mechanism is further operable between the two
substantially rigid arm sections for urging the substantially
smooth and rigid concave interior surfaces of the second pair of
sockets to form a second one of the rotationally and spherically
rotatable ball-and-socket components with the second resiliently
deformable part-spherical coupler, and being further operable
between the two substantially rigid arm sections for urging the
substantially smooth and rigid concave interior surfaces of the
second pair of sockets to releasably interlock with the outer
surface of the second resiliently deformable part-spherical
coupler.
6: The stand of claim 5, further comprising a differential biasing
mechanism coupled to the two substantially rigid arm sections for
differentially urging apart one of the first and second pairs of
sockets, and further for urging together a different one of the
first and second pairs of sockets.
7: A universal detachable sheet music stand that provides
positional adjustments within a spherical coordinate frame, the
music stand comprising: first and second part-spherical couplers
each formed of a resiliently deformable material having a
substantially smooth part spherical outer surface and being
projected from a flange on a substantially rigid stem; a
substantially rigid spacing component formed of a pair of
substantially rigid arm sections forming first and second pairs of
sockets adjacent to opposite ends thereof, each of the first and
second pairs of arm sections being formed with substantially smooth
and rigid concave interior surfaces shaped to substantially conform
to the part spherical outer surface portion of the respective first
and second resiliently deformable part-spherical couplers, a
differential biasing mechanism coupled between the arm sections of
the spacing component for differentially urging apart one of the
first and second pairs of sockets, and simultaneously urging
together a different one of the first and second pairs of sockets;
an adjustable clamping mechanism operable with the spacing
component for urging the first and second pairs of sockets of the
two substantially rigid arm sections into each of three sequential
adjustment relationships to the respective first and second
part-spherical couplers, the three sequential adjustment
relationships comprising: a first loosely clamped relationship
forming first and second relatively rotatable ball-and-socket
joints between the first and second pairs of sockets and the part
spherical outer surface portions of the respective first and second
part-spherical couplers, a second partially clamped relationship
securely interlocking the first pair of sockets with the part
spherical outer surface portion of the first part-spherical
coupler, while retaining the second relatively rotatable
ball-and-socket joint between the second pair of sockets and the
part spherical outer surface portions of the second part-spherical
coupler, and a third fully clamped relationship securely
interlocking the first and second pairs of sockets with the part
spherical outer surface portions of the respective first and second
part-spherical couplers; a suction cup clamp mechanism having a
substantially rigid frame coupled to the flange of one of the first
and second part-spherical couplers; and a sheet music tray device
being coupled to the flange of a different one of the first and
second part-spherical couplers.
8: A method for positionally adjusting a sheet music retention
device within a spherical coordinate frame, the method comprising:
providing two releasably interlockable rotationally and spherically
rotatable ball-and-socket components between a substantially rigid
spacing component and two part-spherical couplers; coupling one of
the two part-spherical couplers to a sheet music retention device;
coupling a different one of the two part-spherical couplers to a
suction cup clamp mechanism; coupling the suction cup clamp
mechanism to a sound board of a stringed musical instrument;
spherically rotating one or both of the two part-spherical couplers
relative to the substantially rigid spacing component for adjusting
a position and an orientation of the sheet music retention device
relative to the suction cup clamp mechanism; and subsequently
releasably interlocking both of the two ball-and-socket
components.
9: The method of claim 8, further comprising forming at least a
first one of the two part-spherical couplers of a resiliently
deformable material having a substantially smooth part spherical
outer surface.
10: The method of claim 9 wherein providing two releasably
interlockable rotationally and spherically rotatable
ball-and-socket components between a substantially rigid spacing
component and two part-spherical couplers further comprises forming
two pairs of sockets between two substantially rigid arm sections,
including forming at least a first pair of the two pairs of sockets
with substantially smooth and rigid concave interior surfaces
shaped to substantially conform to the part spherical outer surface
portion of the first resiliently deformable part-spherical
coupler.
11: The method of claim 10, further comprising operating an
adjustable clamping mechanism between the two substantially rigid
arm sections for initially urging the substantially smooth and
rigid concave interior surfaces of the first pair of sockets to
form a first one of the rotationally and spherically rotatable
ball-and-socket components with the first resiliently deformable
part-spherical coupler, and further operating the adjustable
clamping mechanism between the two substantially rigid arm sections
for subsequently urging the substantially smooth and rigid concave
interior surfaces of the first pair of sockets to releasably
interlock with the outer surface of the first resiliently
deformable part-spherical coupler.
12: The method of claim 11, further comprising forming a second one
of the two part-spherical couplers of a resiliently deformable
material having a substantially smooth part spherical outer
surface; and wherein: forming two pairs of sockets between two
substantially rigid arm sections further comprises forming a second
pair of the two pairs of sockets with substantially smooth and
rigid concave interior surfaces shaped to substantially conform to
the part spherical outer surface portion of the second resiliently
deformable part-spherical coupler; and operating an adjustable
clamping mechanism between the two substantially rigid arm sections
further comprises operating the adjustable clamping mechanism for
urging the substantially smooth and rigid concave interior surfaces
of the second pair of sockets to form a second one of the
rotationally and spherically rotatable ball-and-socket components
with the second resiliently deformable part-spherical coupler, and
further operating the adjustable clamping mechanism between the two
substantially rigid arm sections for urging the substantially
smooth and rigid concave interior surfaces of the second pair of
sockets to releasably interlock with the outer surface of the
second resiliently deformable part-spherical coupler.
13: The method of claim 12, further comprising differentially
urging apart one of the first and second pairs of sockets, and
substantially simultaneously urging together a different one of the
first and second pairs of sockets.
14: A method for positionally adjusting a sheet music retention
device of a universal detachable music stand within a spherical
coordinate frame, the method comprising: substantially rigidly
projecting one of two part-spherical couplers from a suction cup
clamp mechanism; substantially rigidly projecting a different one
of the two part-spherical couplers from a sheet music retention
device; forming two rotationally and spherically rotatable
ball-and-socket components between the two part-spherical couplers
and two corresponding pairs of complementary sockets adjacent to
opposite ends of a substantially rigid spacing component; coupling
a suction cup portion of the suction cup clamp mechanism to a
guitar; spherically rotating one or both of the two part-spherical
couplers within the two corresponding pairs of complementary
sockets relative to the substantially rigid spacing component for
spherically and rotationally adjusting a relative position and
orientation of the sheet music retention device to the suction cup
clamp mechanism; and subsequently immobilizing both of the two
ball-and-socket components.
15: The method of claim 14, further comprising forming the two
part-spherical couplers of a resiliently deformable material having
a substantially smooth part spherical outer surface; and forming
the two pairs of complementary sockets having substantially smooth
and rigid concave interior surfaces shaped to substantially conform
to the part spherical outer surface portion of the corresponding
resiliently deformable part-spherical coupler.
16: The method of claim 15, further comprising clamping together
the two pairs of complementary sockets in an initial relationship
with the two corresponding part-spherical couplers wherein the two
rotationally and spherically rotatable ball-and-socket components
are formed therebetween, and a final relationship wherein both of
the two ball-and-socket components are relatively immobilized.
17: The method of claim 16, further comprising clamping together
the two pairs of complementary sockets in an intermediate
relationship with the two corresponding part-spherical couplers
wherein one of the two rotationally and spherically rotatable
ball-and-socket components is formed therebetween, and a different
one of the two ball-and-socket components is relatively
immobilized.
18: The method of claim 17, further comprising differentially
biasing the spacing component for urging apart one of the two pairs
of complementary sockets, and for substantially simultaneously
urging together a different one of the two ball-and-socket
components.
19: A method for positionally adjusting a sheet music support
member of a detachable music stand within a spherical coordinate
frame, the method comprising: on respective substantially rigid
neck portions, projecting each of two part-spherical couplers from
respective flange members; coupling the flange member of one of the
two part-spherical couplers to a suction cup clamp mechanism;
coupling the suction cup clamp mechanism to a substantially smooth
surface of a stringed musical instrument; coupling the flange
member of a different one of the two part-spherical couplers to a
sheet music support member; in opposite ends of a substantially
rigid spacing component, forming pairs of sockets complementary to
respective ones of the two part-spherical couplers; operating an
adjustable clamping mechanism for forming respective rotationally
and spherically rotatable ball-and-socket components between the
two part-spherical couplers and respective ones of the two pairs of
complementary sockets; spherically rotating one or both of the two
part-spherical couplers within the two corresponding pairs of
complementary sockets relative to the substantially rigid spacing
component for spherically and rotationally adjusting a position and
orientation of the sheet music support member relative to the
suction cup clamp mechanism; subsequently operating the adjustable
clamping mechanism for immobilizing both of the two ball-and-socket
components; and supporting one or more sheets of music by the sheet
music support member.
20: The method of claim 19, further comprising operating the
adjustable clamping mechanism for forming one of the rotationally
and spherically rotatable ball-and-socket components between one of
the two part-spherical couplers and the respective one of the two
pairs of complementary sockets, and substantially simultaneously
operating the adjustable clamping mechanism for immobilizing a
different one of the two ball-and-socket components.
21: The method of claim 20, further comprising forming each of the
two part-spherical couplers of a resiliently deformable material
having a substantially smooth part spherical outer surface; and
wherein forming pairs of sockets complementary to respective ones
of the two part-spherical couplers further comprises forming the
two pairs of complementary sockets having substantially smooth and
rigid concave interior surfaces shaped to substantially conform to
the part spherical outer surface portion of a corresponding one of
the resiliently deformable part-spherical couplers.
22: The method of claim 21, further comprising coupling a resilient
differential biasing mechanism between the opposite ends of the
spacing component for differentially urging apart one of the two
pairs of complementary sockets, and for substantially
simultaneously urging together a different one of the two
ball-and-socket components.
Description
[0001] This application is related to co-pending patent
applications Ser. No. ______ "Universal Pole Caddy" (Attorney
Docket No. NPI-061) and Ser. No. ______ "Universal Detachable
Presentation Bracket" (Attorney Docket No. NPI-062) both filed in
the name of the same inventor on the same day herewith, which are
both incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to a stand for
holding sheet music and more particularly, to a music stand
particularly suitable to be detachably carried on the body of a
guitar.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Detachable music stands for holding sheet music are
generally well-known and have an advantage in being conveniently
carried on the body of an instrument while the instrument is
played.
[0004] However, detachable music stands to date have been limited
to use with a specific species of musical instrument, such as a
guitar, or even more limited to use with a subspecies, such as
acoustic guitar. Known detachable music stands have also been
limited in their ability to position the sheet music for the
musician to read while playing. Known detachable music stands have
been limited to positional adjustments within a rectangular
coordinate frame by independent adjustments of rigid arms slidingly
operable along different orthogonal X, Y and Z coordinate axes.
Alternatively, some other detachable music stands are limited to
positional adjustments within a cylindrical coordinate frame by
including a rotationally adjustable arm component that is radially
slidable.
[0005] Accordingly, known detachable music stands are cumbersome to
operate, and positioning sheet music is inefficient and
inexact.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention is a novel detachable music stand
having a sheet music retention device or tray that is universally
positionable by operating in a spherical coordinate system.
[0007] According to one aspect of the invention the novel
detachable music stand is provided by two releasably interlockable
rotationally and spherically rotatable ball-and-socket components
that are formed between a substantially rigid spacing component and
two part-spherical couplers. A suction cup clamp mechanism is
coupled to one of the two part-spherical couplers, and a sheet
music retention device or tray being coupled to a different one of
the two part-spherical couplers.
[0008] According to one aspect of the invention, at least a first
one of the two part-spherical couplers is formed of a resiliently
deformable material having a substantially smooth part spherical
outer surface.
[0009] According to another aspect of the invention, the spacing
component is provided by two substantially rigid arm sections that
form two pairs of sockets therebetween, at least a first pair of
the two pairs of sockets having substantially smooth and rigid
concave interior surfaces shaped to substantially conform to the
part spherical outer surface portion of the first resiliently
deformable part-spherical coupler.
[0010] According to another aspect of the invention, the novel
detachable music stand includes an adjustable clamping mechanism
that is operable between the two substantially rigid arm sections
for urging the substantially smooth and rigid concave interior
surfaces of the first pair of sockets to form a first one of the
rotationally and spherically rotatable ball-and-socket components
with the first resiliently deformable part-spherical coupler. Also,
the adjustable clamping mechanism is further operable between the
two substantially rigid arm sections for urging the substantially
smooth and rigid concave interior surfaces of the first pair of
sockets to releasably interlock with the outer surface of the first
resiliently deformable part-spherical coupler.
[0011] According to another aspect of the invention, a second one
of the two part-spherical couplers is also formed of a resiliently
deformable material having a substantially smooth part spherical
outer surface. Also, a second pair of the two pairs of sockets
formed between substantially rigid arm sections is formed with
substantially smooth and rigid concave interior surfaces that are
shaped to substantially conform to the part spherical outer surface
portion of the second resiliently deformable part-spherical
coupler. Additionally, the adjustable clamping mechanism is further
operable between the two substantially rigid arm sections for
urging the substantially smooth and rigid concave interior surfaces
of the second pair of sockets to form a second one of the
rotationally and spherically rotatable ball-and-socket components
with the second resiliently deformable part-spherical coupler. The
adjustable clamping mechanism is yet further operable between the
two substantially rigid arm sections for urging the substantially
smooth and rigid concave interior surfaces of the second pair of
sockets to releasably interlock with the outer surface of the
second resiliently deformable part-spherical coupler.
[0012] According to another aspect of the invention, the novel
detachable music stand also includes a differential biasing
mechanism that is coupled for differentially urging apart one of
the first and second pairs of sockets, and is further coupled for
urging together a different one of the first and second pairs of
sockets.
[0013] According to another aspect of the invention, a method is
provided for positionally adjusting a universal detachable music
stand within a spherical coordinate frame, the method including the
steps of: on respective substantially rigid neck portions,
projecting each of two part-spherical couplers from respective
flange members; coupling the flange member of one of the two
part-spherical couplers to a suction cup clamp mechanism; coupling
the suction cup clamp mechanism to a substantially smooth surface
of a musical instrument; coupling the flange member of a different
one of the two part-spherical couplers to a sheet music support
member; in opposite ends of a substantially rigid spacing
component, forming pairs of sockets complementary to respective
ones of the two part-spherical couplers; operating an adjustable
clamping mechanism for forming respective rotationally and
spherically rotatable ball-and-socket components between the two
part-spherical couplers and respective ones of the two pairs of
complementary sockets; spherically rotating one or both of the two
part-spherical couplers within the two corresponding pairs of
complementary sockets relative to the substantially rigid spacing
component for spherically and rotationally adjusting a position and
orientation of the sheet music support member relative to the
suction cup clamp mechanism; and subsequently operating the
adjustable clamping mechanism for immobilizing both of the two
ball-and-socket components.
[0014] According to another aspect of the invention, the method of
the invention further includes the step of operating the adjustable
clamping mechanism for forming one of the rotationally and
spherically rotatable ball-and-socket components between one of the
two part-spherical couplers and the respective one of the two pairs
of complementary sockets, and the step of substantially
simultaneously operating the adjustable clamping mechanism for
immobilizing a different one of the two ball-and-socket
components.
[0015] According to another aspect of the invention, the method of
the invention further includes the step of forming each of the two
part-spherical couplers of a resiliently deformable material having
a substantially smooth part spherical outer surface. Also, the step
of forming pairs of sockets complementary to respective ones of the
two part-spherical couplers further includes the step of forming
the two pairs of complementary sockets having substantially smooth
and rigid concave interior surfaces shaped to substantially conform
to the part spherical outer surface portion of a corresponding one
of the resiliently deformable part-spherical couplers.
[0016] According to yet another aspect of the invention, the method
of the invention further includes the step of positioning a
resilient differential biasing mechanism for differentially urging
apart one of the two pairs of complementary sockets, and
substantially simultaneously urging together a different one of the
two ball-and-socket components.
[0017] Other aspects of the invention are detailed herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages
of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same
becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed
description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, wherein:
[0019] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the
universal detachable stand of the invention;
[0020] FIG. 2 is another perspective view showing an example of the
universal detachable stand of the invention;
[0021] FIG. 3 is an assembly view that illustrates the different
components of the universal detachable stand of the invention;
and
[0022] FIG. 4 is another assembly view that illustrates the
different components of the universal detachable stand of the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0023] In the Figures, like numerals indicate like elements.
[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view that illustrates the universal
detachable music stand 10 of the present invention embodied by
example and without limitation as a universal detachable music
stand that provides positional adjustments within a spherical
coordinate frame by two rotationally and spherically adjustable
ball-and-socket components spaced apart on a single spacing
component. The universal detachable music stand 10 of the present
invention is structured for attachment to any musical instrument
having a substantially smooth and reasonably planar surface of even
minimal area capable of securely receiving a suction cup. By
example and without limitation, the universal detachable music
stand 10 of the invention readily mounts to the sound board of a
stringed instrument, such as an acoustic or electronic guitar, for
holding sheet music in a position that is convenient to the
musician while playing.
[0025] Accordingly, the universal detachable music stand 10 of the
invention includes a suction cup clamp 12 and a sheet music tray or
other sheet music retention device 14 each having a respective
attached part-spherical coupler 16, 18. A double-socket spacing
mechanism 20 extends between and joins the two part-spherical
couplers 16, 18 in a pair of spaced-apart ball-and-socket joints
22, 24, respectively. Both of the ball-and-socket joints 22, 24 are
both rotationally and spherically adjustable relative to the
intervening spacing mechanism 20. Accordingly, the universal
detachable music stand 10 of the invention provides positional
adjustments of the sheet music retention device or tray 14 relative
to the suction cup clamp 12 within a spherical coordinate
frame.
[0026] By example and without limitation, the double-socket spacing
mechanism 20 is operable in a first loosely clamped state for
forming first and second spaced-apart and relatively rotatable
ball-and-socket joints 22, 24 with the two part-spherical couplers
16, 18. The double-socket spacing mechanism 20 is also operable in
a second partially clamped state for securely interlocking with the
spacing mechanism 20 with an outer surface of the first
part-spherical coupler 16, while retaining the second relatively
rotatable ball-and-socket joint 24 with the second part-spherical
coupler 18. The double-socket spacing mechanism 20 is further
operable in a third fully clamped state for securely interlocking
the spacing mechanism 20 with both of the two part-spherical
couplers 16, 18. Therefore, with the suction cup clamp 12 securely
attached to a selected substantially smooth and reasonably planar
surface S, the double-socket spacing mechanism 20 is operated in
the first loosely clamped state for forming the two relatively
rotatable ball-and-socket joints 22, 24 with the two part-spherical
couplers 16, 18 so that the double-socket spacing mechanism 20 can
be rotated about each of the two part-spherical couplers 16, 18 in
any orientation within range of the device. Next, with the suction
cup clamp 12 still securely attached to the selected surface S, the
double-socket spacing mechanism 20 is operated in the second
partially clamped together state for securely interlocking with the
spacing mechanism 20 with the first part-spherical coupler 16 on
the securely attached suction cup clamp 12, while the second
relatively rotatable ball-and-socket joint 24 is retained with the
second part-spherical coupler 18. Thus, the spacing mechanism 20 is
securely clamped in a selected orientation with the suction cup
clamp 12 and the selected surface S, while the sheet music tray 14
is still rotatable about the second relatively rotatable
ball-and-socket joint 24 formed between the spacing mechanism 20
and the second part-spherical coupler 18. When the sheet music tray
14 is rotated into the selected spherical position and orientation
relative to the suction cup clamp 12 and the selected surface S,
the double-socket spacing mechanism 20 is operated in the third
fully clamped state for securely interlocking the spacing mechanism
20 with both of the two part-spherical couplers 16, 18. Thereafter,
the spacing mechanism 20 is securely interlocked with the two
part-spherical couplers 16, 18, and through them interlocks the
sheet music tray 14 with the suction cup clamp 12 and the selected
surface S, whereby the sheet music tray 14 is immovably secured in
the selected spherical position and orientation. Sheet music or can
be attached to the sheet music tray 14 in a position that is
convenient to the musician while playing. Alternatively, other
papers are attached to the sheet music tray 14 in a position that
is convenient to the user.
[0027] Partial loosening causes the spacing mechanism 20 to retreat
from the third clamped fully clamped state to the second partially
clamped state, wherein the spacing mechanism 20 reforms the second
relatively rotatable ball-and-socket joint 24 with the second
part-spherical coupler 18, but remains securely interlocked to the
first part-spherical coupler 16 on the suction cup clamp 12. Thus,
the sheet music tray 14 is easily reoriented and repositioned
spherically relative to the securely interlocked spacing mechanism
20, the suction cup clamp 12 and the selected surface S, without
changing the spherical orientation of the spacing mechanism 20
relative to the suction cup clamp 12.
[0028] Additional loosening causes the spacing mechanism 20 to
retreat from the second partially clamped state to the first
loosely clamped state, wherein the spacing mechanism 20 continues
to form the second relatively rotatable ball-and-socket joint 24
with the second part-spherical coupler 18, and additionally reforms
the first relatively rotatable ball-and-socket joint 22 with the
first part-spherical coupler 16. Thus, the sheet music tray 14
remains easily spherically reorientable and repositionable relative
to the spacing mechanism 20, and the spacing mechanism 20 is easily
spherically reoriented and repositioned relative to the suction cup
clamp 12 which is still securely attached to the selected surface
S.
[0029] FIG. 2 is another perspective view that also illustrates the
universal detachable music stand 10 of the invention embodied by
example and without limitation as a universal detachable music
stand that is structured for attachment to any musical instrument
having a surface area capable of securely receiving a suction cup.
Here, the sheet music tray 14 is illustrated as a conventional clip
board or other sheet music tray having a thin, substantially rigid
board 26 with a reasonably flat and generally rectangular work
surface 28. By example and without limitation, a spring clip 30 is
attached adjacent to one edge 32 of the board 26, such as one of
the short edges (shown) but may alternatively be one of the long
edges. Other means for holding sheet music papers to the work
surface 28 are also contemplated and may be substituted for the
spring clip 30 without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. For example, a shelf 33 is optionally provided for
holding sheet music papers.
[0030] FIG. 3 is an assembly view of the universal detachable music
stand 10 of the invention. Here, the suction cup clamp 12 is
embodied by example and without limitation as the suction cup clamp
device having a compact axial suction cup installation and release
mechanism 34 as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,666,420 issued to one
of the inventors of the present invention on Dec. 23, 2003, which
is incorporated herein by reference. Manual rotation in a first
direction labeled "ON" of the axial suction cup installation and
release mechanism 34 against a suction cup bell housing 36
activates a pliable suction cup 38 to securely attach to the
selected substantially smooth and reasonably planar surface S.
[0031] Alternatively, other conventional suction cup clamp devices
are also contemplated and may be substituted for the suction cup
clamp device 12 without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. For example, a suction cup clamp device using an
over-center cam-type clamp mechanism for activating the pliable
suction cup 38 may be substituted for the suction cup clamp 12
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0032] The two part-spherical couplers 16 and 18 are formed of a
resiliently deformable material having a substantially smooth part
spherical outer surface, as disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 5,885,845
for "Universally Positionable Mounting Device," issued to one of
the inventors of the present invention on Dec. 8, 1998, which is
incorporated herein by reference.
[0033] The first part-spherical coupler 16 is securely coupled to a
mounting surface 40 provided on the suction cup clamp 12. For
example, a pair of spaced-apart mounting surfaces 40 are disposed
on a mounting frame 42 shown as a pair of columns projected from
the bell housing 36 on opposite sides of the axial suction cup
installation and release mechanism 34. The first part-spherical
coupler 16 is projected above a diamond-shaped flange 44 on a rigid
stem 46 necked-down to be smaller than the part-spherical coupler
16. The flange 44 is securely fastened or otherwise coupled to or
integrated with the spaced-apart mounting surfaces 40 on the ends
of the columns of the bell housing mounting frame 42.
Alternatively, other conventional flange devices are also
contemplated and may be substituted for the diamond-shaped flange
44 without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
For example, a round flange device of the type illustrated in FIG.
1 in connection with the sheet music tray 14 may be substituted for
the diamond-shaped flange 44 without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention.
[0034] The second part-spherical coupler 18 is shown here by
example and without limitation as being projected above another
diamond-shaped flange 44 on another necked-down stem 46. The flange
44 is securely attached to a back surface 48 of the board 26. By
example and without limitation, the flange 44 is optionally formed
intergrally with the back surface 48 of the board 26, or molded in
place. Alternatively, fasteners 49 attach the mounting platform 47
of the flange 44 to the back surface 48 of the board 26. The
mounting platform 47 of the flange 44 is alternatively adhesively
attached to the back surface 48 of the board 26 by means of a
strong bi-adhesive tape 51, for example, a bi-adhesive tape
disclosed by both Tarulli in U.S. Pat. No. 5,992,807 and Won in
U.S. Pat. No. 6,149,116, which are both incorporated herein by
reference.
[0035] The double-socket spacing mechanism 20 operates in
conjunction with the two part-spherical couplers 16 and 18 to
compose the mounting device for alternately providing relative
motion and fixed positions between two relatively movable objects
at selected angular orientations, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
5,885,845, which is incorporated herein by reference. By example
and without limitation, the first and second part-spherical
couplers 16 and 18 are provided on the suction cup clamp 12 and
sheet music tray 14, respectively. The geometric centers of the
first and second part-spherical couplers 16 and 18 define spaced
first and second loci 50 and 52, respectively.
[0036] The double-socket spacing mechanism 20 is a split arm
assembly having a pair of substantially identical relatively rigid
arm sections 54 and 56 that are operatively juxtaposed to one
another along a line of juncture 58 between the spaced loci 50, 52.
Pairs of sockets 60, 62 and 64, 66 are formed in opposite ends of
the rigid arm section 54, 56, respectively. The sockets 60, 62 and
64, 66 have interior surfaces shaped to substantially conform to
the part spherical outer surface portion of the first and second
part-spherical couplers 16 and 18. The interior surfaces of the
sockets 60, 62 and 64, 66 are substantially smooth and rigid
concave surfaces, wherein one or more of the smooth concave
surfaces optionally includes one or more indentations 68 formed
therein, e.g., crossed as shown.
[0037] The arm sections 54, 56 of the double-socket spacing
mechanism 20 are clamped together relatively crosswise the line of
juncture 58 in a plurality of clamped together positions, whereby
the first and second pairs of sockets 60, 62 and 64, 66 are
repositioned relative to the respective part-spherical couplers 16,
18 for sequentially forming each of the first loosely clamped
state, the second partially clamped state, and the third fully
clamped state. In the first loosely clamped state of the
double-socket spacing mechanism 20 the first pair of sockets 60, 62
is joined with the outer surface of the first part-spherical
coupler 16 to form the first relatively rotatable ball-and-socket
joint 22 having a first sphere of revolution with a center at the
center 50 of the first part-spherical coupler 16; and the second
pair of sockets 64, 66 is loosely joined with the outer surface of
the second part-spherical coupler 18 to form the second relatively
rotatable ball-and-socket joint 24 having a first sphere of
revolution with a center at the center 52 of the second
part-spherical coupler 18. Thus, in the first loosely clamped state
of the double-socket spacing mechanism 20 the arm sections 54, 56
are freely movable relative to both the suction cup clamp 12 and
the sheet music tray 14. Accordingly, within the range of the
device the sheet music tray 14 can be easily moved to any position
and any orientation relative to the suction cup clamp 12 and the
surface S to which it is securely attached.
[0038] In the second partially clamped state of the double-socket
spacing mechanism 20 the first pair of sockets 60, 62 is securely
interlocked with the outer surface of the first part-spherical
coupler 16, while the second pair of sockets 64, 66 remains loosely
joined with the outer surface of the second part-spherical coupler
18 to form the second relatively rotatable ball-and-socket joint 24
having a first sphere of revolution with a center at the center 52
of the second part-spherical coupler 18. Thus, in the second
partially clamped state of the double-socket spacing mechanism 20
the arm sections 54, 56 are securely fixed in both position and
orientation relative to the suction cup clamp 12. However, the
sheet music tray 14 remains freely movable relative to the arm
sections 54, 56. Accordingly, within the range of the device the
sheet music tray 14 can be easily moved to any position and any
spherical orientation relative to the arm sections 54, 56, the
suction cup clamp 12 and the surface S.
[0039] In the third fully clamped state of the double-socket
spacing mechanism 20 the first pair of sockets 60, 62 remain
securely interlocked with the outer surface of the first
part-spherical coupler 16, while the second pair of sockets 64, 66
is securely interlocked with the outer surface of the second
part-spherical coupler 18. Thus, in the third fully clamped state
of the double-socket spacing mechanism 20 the arm sections 54, 56
are securely fixed and substantially immovable in both position and
orientation relative to arm sections 54, 56, the suction cup clamp
12 and the surface S.
[0040] The double-socket spacing mechanism 20 includes an
adjustable clamping mechanism 70 for clamping the arm section 54,
56 and causing the opposing concave socket surfaces of the sockets
60, 62 and 64, 66 to assume different adjustment relationships to
the respective first and second part-spherical couplers 16, 18 that
apply differential clamping forces between the interior concave
surfaces of the respective pairs of sockets 60, 62 and 64, 66.
Accordingly, the clamping mechanism 70 is sequentially adjustable
for clamping the arm section 54, 56 to different degrees for
causing the double-socket spacing mechanism 20 to initially assume
the first loosely clamped state for forming first and second
relatively rotatable ball-and-socket joints 22, 24 with the two
part-spherical couplers 16, 18; and for subsequently assuming each
of the second partially clamped state for securely interlocking the
spacing mechanism 20 with an outer surface of the first
part-spherical coupler 16, while retaining the second relatively
rotatable ball-and-socket joint 24 with the second part-spherical
coupler 18; and the third fully clamped state for securely
interlocking the spacing mechanism 20 with both of the two
part-spherical couplers 16, 18.
[0041] By example and without limitation, the adjustable clamping
mechanism 70 is formed by a threaded bolt 72 having a threaded
shaft 74 sized to pass through an aperture 76 formed through a boss
78 formed adjacent to a central portion the body of one arm section
54 (or 56). A head 80 of the bolt 72 nests in a socket 82 formed in
the boss 78. The bolt's shaft 74 subsequently passes through a bore
84 through another boss 86 formed in a central portion the body of
the other arm section 56 (or 54). A washer 88 is fitted over the
bolt's shaft 74 adjacent to the boss 86. A handle or knob 90 with a
threaded bore 92 is threadedly coupled to the bolt's shaft 74.
Thereafter, tightening of the adjustable clamping mechanism 70 by
turning the knob 90 along a drive axis 94 of the adjustable
clamping mechanism 70 in a first direction onto the bolt's shaft 74
against the boss 86 adjusts first and second relatively spherically
rotatable ball-and-socket joints 22, 24 relative to the two
part-spherical couplers 16, 18 for sequentially forming each of the
first loosely clamped state, the second partially clamped state,
and the third fully clamped state wherein the spacing mechanism 20
is securely interlocked with both of the two part-spherical
couplers 16, 18. Subsequent loosening of the adjustable clamping
mechanism 70 by turning the knob 90 in reverse direction off of the
bolt's shaft 74 and away from the boss 86 adjusts first and second
relatively rotatable ball-and-socket joints 22, 24 relative to the
two part-spherical couplers 16, 18 for retreating from the third
fully clamped state for forming the second partially clamped state
wherein the spacing mechanism 20 is securely interlocked with the
outer surface of the first part-spherical coupler 16, while
permitting the spacing mechanism 20 to form the second relatively
rotatable ball-and-socket joint 24 with the second part-spherical
coupler 18. Continued turning of the knob 90 in the reverse
direction off of the bolt's shaft 74 and away from the boss 86
eventually adjusts the double-socket spacing mechanism 20 to
achieve the first loosely clamped state for forming the first and
second relatively rotatable ball-and-socket joints 22, 24 with each
of the two part-spherical couplers 16, 18.
[0042] Alternatively, other conventional adjustable clamping
mechanisms are also contemplated and may be substituted for the
adjustable clamping mechanism 70 without departing from the spirit
and scope of the invention. For example, an over-center cam-type
clamp mechanism may be substituted for the threadedly adjustable
clamping mechanism 70 without departing from the spirit and scope
of the invention.
[0043] Optionally, the double-socket spacing mechanism 20 may
include a resilient differential biasing mechanism 96 positioned
for differentially urging the two arm section 54, 56 apart from one
another. The resilient differential biasing mechanism 96, for
example, a conventional compression spring, is positioned between
the two arm section 54, 56 at a location between the drive axis 94
of the adjustable clamping mechanism 70 and one of the
ball-and-socket joints 22 or 24 (shown) adjacent to the end of the
spacing mechanism 20. The differential biasing mechanism 96
operates to force the two arm section 54, 56 apart from one another
at the nearer of the ball-and-socket joints 22 or 24 (shown), and
simultaneously operates to force the two arm section 54, 56 toward
one another at the farther of the ball-and-socket joints 24 or 22
(shown) by rotating or "rocking" the two arm section 54, 56 about
the bolt 72 of the clamping mechanism 70 and the drive axis 94
thereof. Thus, the resilient biasing mechanism 96 generates a
differential in the clamping forces between first and second pairs
of sockets 60, 62 and 64, 66 vis-a-vis their respective
part-spherical couplers 16 and 18. Accordingly, when the clamping
mechanism 70 is partially engaged with the arm sections 54, 56 at
the respective bosses 78, 86 thereof, the operation of the
resilient biasing mechanism 96 causes the double-socket spacing
mechanism 20 to enter the second partially clamped state by forcing
together the arm section 54, 56 on the far side of the drive axis
94 for causing the first pair of sockets 60, 62 to engage and at
least partially interlock with the outer surface of the first
part-spherical coupler 16, while forcing apart the arm section 54,
56 on the near side of the drive axis 94 for the second pair of
sockets 64, 66 to remain loosely joined with the outer surface of
the second part-spherical coupler 18 to form the second relatively
rotatable ball-and-socket joint 24.
[0044] Furthermore, the sockets 60, 62 and 64, 66 each have
respective peripheral rims 91, 93 formed thereabout in the faces
95, 97 of the respective arm sections 54, 56 adjacent to their
respective ends. The peripheral rims 91, 93 include one or more
indentations 98, 99 in the outline of the respective sockets 60, 62
and 64, 66. The indentations 98, 99 are sized larger than the
respective necks or stems 46 to pass there around. The indentations
98, 99 are formed as cooperating indentations positioned between
the respective sockets 60, 62 and 64, 66 and are deep enough to
permit the spacing mechanism 20 to be rotated about the center
points or loci 50, 52 of the respective part-spherical couplers 16,
18 to angular orientations in which the line of juncture 58 can
extend at right angles to the respective stems 46.
[0045] FIG. 4 is another assembly view of the universal detachable
music stand 10 of the invention. Here, the pair of substantially
identical relatively rigid arm sections 54 and 56 of the
double-socket spacing mechanism 20 are inverted relative to the
suction cup clamp 12 and sheet music tray 14. The first pair of
sockets 60, 62 is positioned to engage the second part-spherical
coupler 18 and form the first relatively rotatable ball-and-socket
joint 22 therewith. The second pair of sockets 64, 66 is positioned
to engage the first part-spherical coupler 16 and form the second
relatively rotatable ball-and-socket joint 24 therewith.
Accordingly, operation of the adjustable clamping mechanism 70 on
the arm section 54, 56 causes the opposing concave socket surfaces
of the sockets 60, 62 and 64, 66 to instead assume the different
adjustment relationships described herein with to the second and
first part-spherical couplers 18 and 16, respectively.
[0046] While the preferred and additional alternative embodiments
of the invention have been illustrated and described, it will be
appreciated that various changes can be made therein without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it
will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Accordingly, the inventor makes the following claims.
* * * * *