CA2385373C - Storage of reeds for bagpipes and the like - Google Patents
Storage of reeds for bagpipes and the like Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2385373C CA2385373C CA2385373A CA2385373A CA2385373C CA 2385373 C CA2385373 C CA 2385373C CA 2385373 A CA2385373 A CA 2385373A CA 2385373 A CA2385373 A CA 2385373A CA 2385373 C CA2385373 C CA 2385373C
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- chamber
- reed
- humidity controlling
- air
- salt
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
Links
- 235000014676 Phragmites communis Nutrition 0.000 title claims abstract description 96
- 244000089486 Phragmites australis subsp australis Species 0.000 title claims abstract 3
- 150000003839 salts Chemical class 0.000 claims abstract description 33
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 28
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 13
- 229920006395 saturated elastomer Polymers 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 239000003570 air Substances 0.000 claims description 40
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 16
- WCUXLLCKKVVCTQ-UHFFFAOYSA-M Potassium chloride Chemical group [Cl-].[K+] WCUXLLCKKVVCTQ-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 229920002401 polyacrylamide Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000001103 potassium chloride Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 235000011164 potassium chloride Nutrition 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000012080 ambient air Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 244000273256 Phragmites communis Species 0.000 description 21
- 239000012266 salt solution Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000243 solution Substances 0.000 description 2
- 244000025254 Cannabis sativa Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000012766 Cannabis sativa ssp. sativa var. sativa Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000012765 Cannabis sativa ssp. sativa var. spontanea Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silicium dioxide Chemical compound O=[Si]=O VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- FAPWRFPIFSIZLT-UHFFFAOYSA-M Sodium chloride Chemical compound [Na+].[Cl-] FAPWRFPIFSIZLT-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 1
- 229930182558 Sterol Natural products 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- GDTBXPJZTBHREO-UHFFFAOYSA-N bromine Chemical compound BrBr GDTBXPJZTBHREO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 235000009120 camo Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000005607 chanvre indien Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000003610 charcoal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000011487 hemp Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000019645 odor Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000000741 silica gel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910002027 silica gel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 150000003432 sterols Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 235000003702 sterols Nutrition 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D21/00—Nestable, stackable or joinable containers; Containers of variable capacity
- B65D21/08—Containers of variable capacity
- B65D21/083—Containers of variable capacity by means of additional elements, e.g. modular
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
- B65D81/24—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants
- B65D81/26—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants with provision for draining away, or absorbing, or removing by ventilation, fluids, e.g. exuded by contents; Applications of corrosion inhibitors or desiccators
- B65D81/266—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants with provision for draining away, or absorbing, or removing by ventilation, fluids, e.g. exuded by contents; Applications of corrosion inhibitors or desiccators for absorbing gases, e.g. oxygen absorbers or desiccants
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G10—MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS; ACOUSTICS
- G10D—STRINGED MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS; WIND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS; ACCORDIONS OR CONCERTINAS; PERCUSSION MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS; AEOLIAN HARPS; SINGING-FLAME MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS; MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G10D9/00—Details of, or accessories for, wind musical instruments
- G10D9/02—Mouthpieces; Reeds; Ligatures
- G10D9/035—Reeds
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G10—MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS; ACOUSTICS
- G10G—REPRESENTATION OF MUSIC; RECORDING MUSIC IN NOTATION FORM; ACCESSORIES FOR MUSIC OR MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. SUPPORTS
- G10G7/00—Other auxiliary devices or accessories, e.g. conductors' batons or separate holders for resin or strings
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
- Multimedia (AREA)
- Food Science & Technology (AREA)
- Drying Of Gases (AREA)
- Auxiliary Devices For Music (AREA)
Abstract
A storage apparatus for musical reeds comprises a container comprising a reed chamber adapted for holding a reed, and a humidity controlling chamber arranged such that air is exchanged substantially freely between the reed chamber and the humidity controlling chamber. A humidity controlling mixture, comprising a salt, a superabsorber, and water, is contained within the humidity controlling chamber. The amount of water is such that a portion of the salt remains undissolved, and such that water saturated with the salt is absorbed by the superabsorber. The apparatus can be adapted to attach to an instrument so that the reed can be stored in a humidity controlled environment while in its playing position on the instrument.
Description
STORAGE OF REEDS OR BA~GF1P'ES A1VD TI(iE ~tKE
This invention is in the field ofreeds for musical instruments, and in particularthe storage of such reeds.
BACKGROlJIV'ltf It is well known that hmmidity controlled storage is desirable for musical reeds. While synthetic reeds, made from plastic and the liken, are gesnarally impervious to moisture, reeds made from natural materials, such as cant, absorb and give off moisture. When removed from storage and placed in the instrument for playing, it can take some playing time for the reed to absorb moisture from the player's breath so as to reach an equilibrium playing humidity. The tone of the instrument changes as the moisture content of the reed changes, and becomes satisfactorily constant once equilibrium is achieved. It is desirable to store the reeds at a humidity approximating the playing humidity to reduce the playing time squired to achieve erluilibrium.
Flat reeds, such as those used in a clarinet or saxophone arc preferably clamped to maintain their flat shape during storage. Double curved reeds, such as those used in a bagpipe, oboe, or bassoon are not clamped.
United States Patent Nuulbez~ 4,674,630 to Kirck provides a reed storage case.
The reeds arc clamped against the center wall of a reed slide which is then inserted into a substantially sealed case with a hygrastat comprising a mixture of salt, silica gel and activated charcoal.
In operation the reeds are first soaked, as if in preparation for playing. The length of eoabnS
time depends on the dryness of the reeds, but it is i~ndicxted that care must be taken not to introduce tva much moisture too quickly, since humidity near 100% may cause mold and mildew. Various ways are described to reduce the moisture in the case to the desized range.
io The hygrostat of the Kirck case maintains a substantially constant humidity in the cast but is unable to supply moisture to a dry reed, or apparently absorb sufficient moisture from the case when a reed is introduced into the case that is too wet. Considerable trial and error appears to be reduired in order to proporly stare reeds in the Kirck case.
Some wind instruments such as bagpipes present further problems with respect to reed -removal and storage. The reed iuo: a bagpipe comprises a pair of curved blades tied with a binding to a hollow reed insert, or staple. The exposed end of the staple is inserted into a socket in the air input end of the boa-c of tht chanter, which in turn is inserted into the bag.
2o Air from the bag is expelled between the curved blades, through the staple, and out through _hc~~4_ tha bore, either through the finger hales or the output end ofthc bore. A
string or hemp is typicallywrapped around the exposed end of the staple to control the depth ofinsertion ofthe ._ staple iato the socket. As this insertion depth varies, the tone and pitch of the chanter varies as well. Once the desired depth that results in the desired tone and pitch is achicvcd, it would be desirable to leave the recd in place in the chanter zathcr than going through the trial and error of reinserkion. This is presently not practical since it is aiso desirable to store the reed in a sealed container to maintain at aeast some humidity, especially in dry environments. .
Oboes, bassoons and like woodwind instruments have similar reeds where it is also desirable 1o to stare the reed in position on tlae instrument.
SiTMMAR''i~L' ~~"I'HE INVENT_~~
It is an object of the present invention to provide a storage apparatus for reeds that will t g maintain the reed at a desired humidity.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide such a storage apparatus that has the ability to absorb and supply moisture as reqwired to m~aintaiu, the Humidity oaf the storage ._ chamber at a desired level as reeds having varying moisture levels are placed in the storage chamber.
It is a further obj ect of the present invention to provide such a storage apparatus that can be attached to an instrument so that the reed can be left in place in the instrument while . .
being stored.
The present invention provides, in ono aspect, a storage apparatus for musical reeds comprising a container comprising a reed chamber adapted for haldittg a reed, and a humidity controlling chamber anraz~ged such that air is e,~cchanged substantially freely betw~n the recd chamber and the humidity controlling cbannbea~. ,A. hurraidity can~troliiuag rniMture, comprising a salt, a supcrabsorber, and water, :is contained within the humidity controlling chamber. The amount of water is such that a portion of the salt remains undissolvcd, and such that the water is satua~atad with the salt and is absorbed by the superabsorber.
In a secants aspect the present invention provides an apparatus for maintaining a reed at a substantially constant humidity while in its playing position in an air input end of a bore of 2o an instrument. The apparatus comprises a container comprising a reed chamber and a - Patre 6 - , humidity oontrollix~ chamber arranged such that air is exchanged substantially freely between the reed chamber and the humidity controlling chamber. The reed chamber has an open end adapted to be attached and soaled aver the rid and air input and of the bore. The hunnidity controlling chamber contains a humidity controlling mixture comprising a salt, a s superabsarbcr, and water, wherein the amount of water is such that a portion of the salt t'cmains undissolved, and such that the water is Saturated with the salt and is absorbed by the superabsorber. A seal is adapted to prevent arxxbient air from contacting the recd through an . .
air output arEa of the bore.
'1"he humidity conErolling mixture utilizes the known property of a salt solution to maintain a constant humidity by absorbing and :releasing moisture. Where the salt is potassium chloride humidity is maintained at about 85°/'o which has been found very suitable for bagpipe reeds.
Other salts may be used for different humidity levels for different reeds.
Sodium chloride salt maintains humidity at about 75°l° for example.
is ?he superabsorber is conveniently a polyacrylamide such as WatersorbTM, made by Polymers -Inc., of l:Iot Springs, .A,l~. When water i$ added to the salt and superabsorber, a portion of the salt dissolves to saturate the water, and the saturated water is absorbed by the superabsoxber.
A portion of the salt remains undissdlved, allowing the humidity controlling mixture to absorb further moisture from the container, such as when a~n overly wet reed is placed - PaL;e 7 -therein, and still maintain the water saturated with the salt to maintain the proper humidity.
Where a dry reed is placed in the container, moisture is drawn out of the superabsorber and into the container to raise the moisture level of the rued.
The addition of a supcrabsorber allows the humidity controlling rxiixturc to be substantially solid, avoiding spillage problemcxs associated with a liquid, while still allowing the salt solution to maintain the proper humidity. .A salt solution will supply humidity to the surrounding air until the solution is dried out. The supcrabsorber shows for storage of considerable salt solution in essentially a solid form, allowing the humidity controlling mixture to supply or absorb solution as required to either add or remove moisture from reeds to bring them to the desired m8isture level.
~'l~e apparatus of the invention can be adapted to an in,struxnent such as a bagpipe cheater, oboe, bassoon, or the like so that the road can be 1e$ in place in the instrument and sterol at a l s constant humidity. The container is attached to the air input end of the instrument so that tht reed is enclosed in the reed chamber, and then the instrument is sealed so that ambient air is =
prevented brom entering tlZe opposite output e:ad of the instrument and contacting the reed.
Conveniently a rod with a seal or plug on the end is pushed into the opposite output end of the instrument"s bore to seal the reed in the reed chamber where the humidity is controlled.
DESCR»'ITON OF T8E DRAWINGS:
While the invention is claimed in the concluding portions hereof, preferred embodiments arc provided in the accompanying detailed description which may be best understood in conjunction with the accompanying diagrams whera like parts in each of ttce sevGrsl diagrams are labeled with like numbers, and where:
Fig. 1 is a side view of a storage apparatus of the invention Fig. 2 is a cross-section view along 2 - 2 is Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 is a cross-section viavr along 3 - 3 in Fig. l;
Fig. 4 is a side view of a reed geld upright in a grommet;
Fig. 5 is side vices of an apparatus for usa on a bagpipe chantor to allow the reed to be _ left in place on the ohanbcr during cont~~olled humidity storage;
Fig. b is an end vie~uv of the apparatus of 1~ig. 5.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUST~TED EMBODIMENTS:
Fig. 1 illustrator a Storage apparat«s for musical coeds comprising a container 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the container 10 is made up of five clear plastic cylinders I, 2, 3, 4, 5 that screw together. The top three cylinders 1, 2, 3 form a reed chamber. The top cylinder 1 is sealed with a cog. The floor 1 F of the tog cylinder 1 is illustrated in Fig. 2, and defines a plurality of reed apertures 8 adapted to hold reeds 14. . _ A rubber groznznet 12 is glared in each reed aperture 8, and a reed 14 can be placed into each grommet 12, as illustrated in )~ig. 4. Xhe floor of the second cylinder 2 is removed so that them is no barrier between cylinders 2 and 3, and these two eylindcrs provido an open space to accommodate various reeds 14. Lf this space is not required, cylinder 2 could simply be removed.
The fourth cylinder 4 forms a filter chamber containing a filter material 16 and a quantity of activated charcoal 18. The activated charcoal 1$ absorbs organic molecules aad reduces =
organic activity and odors. The floor 3F of fine third cylinder 3 is illustrated in Fig. 3 and defines a plurality of air holes 20 that allow air to be exchanged freely between the filter chamber and reed chamber.
The til3h cylinder 5 forms a humidity controlling chamber. The floor 4F of the fourth cylinder 4 is the same as the floor 3F of the third cylinder 3 and defines similar air holes 20 that allow air to be exchanged freely betwttn the filter chamber and humidity contznlling chamber. The perforated floors 3F, 4F thus allow air to be exchanged freely between the teed chamber and the humidity controlling chamber through the filter chamber.
All air that passes back and forth is thus filtered by the activated charcoal 1$ and filter material 1 b, minimising ozganic activity. ..
Alternatively the reed, filter, and humidity cvz~troalxng chaanbez~s could be oriented side by side, or in various arrangements so long as au~ passes freoly throughout the container.
The humidity controlling chamber holds a humidity controlling mixture comprising a salt 22, a Superabsorber 24, and water. The amount of water is such that a porfiion ofthe salt 22 remains undissolved. The water is saturated with the salt 22 and is absorbed by the superabsorber 24. In the illustrated embodiment the superabsorbtr 24 comprises a polyacrylamide polymer. When water is added to the salt 22 and superabsorber 2A~, a portion of the Salt 22 dissolves to saturate the water and the saturated water is absorbed by t)ae supcrabsorber 24. As can be seen in Fig. 1, no liquid water zeznains in cylinder 5, as all has been absorbed.
-Pagell-Also as can be seen in Fig. 1, a portion of the salt 22 remains undissolved, allowing the humidity controlling mixture to absorb further moisture :From the container 10, such as when an overly wet reed is placed therein, and still maintain the water saturated with the salt 22 to maintain the proper humidity. Whc~xe a dry reed is placed is the container 10, moisture is drawn out Qf tb~e superabsarl~er 2rt and into the container 1 p to raise the moisture level of the reed 14.
For bagpipe reeds, it has been found that where the salt used is potassium chloride, and humidity is maintained at about 85%, good results are achieved as the reed plays fairly well as soon as it is removed from storage.
Fig. 5 illustrates an apparatus for maintaining a reed 11 a at a substantially constant humidity while in its playing gasition in an air input end of the bore 133 of an instrument, illustrated as a bagpipe chanter 134. Foz playing, the zcod 114 is inserted into the upper end of a read socket T 32 in the air input end of the bore 13:3 at the reed end 131 of the instrument. The lpwer end of the reed socket 132 co~nnmunicates with the bore 133 so that sir entering the upper end of the reed socket 132 passes through tho bore to the air output area of the lore 133 comprising the finger holes I 34 and the air output end of the bore 133.
The apparatus comprises a container 110 comprising three piastic cylinders 141,102, 103 - page 12 -screwed together as in container I 0 described above. The floats between cylinders 1 O 1,102, I03 are perforated with air holes as in the floor illustrated in Fig. 3 so that air is exchanged fi~eeiy between the cylinders.
The lower end of the cylinder 101 defines a rood aperture 108 that is surrounded by a seal 113. The apparatus 110 is placed over the read 114 and secured to the reed end 131 of the chanter 130 by turning lock screw 1 I 5 which then bears against the wall of the reed ertd I31 . -of the chanter 130. The seal 113 seals against the rued end 131 of the chanter 130 so that amibicnt air is substaatiallyprevented from entering the cylinder 101. To prevent ambient air from reaching the reed through the air output area ofthe bore 133 a seal, illustrated as a rod 135 having a sealing end 13G is ixuserted into the air output end of the bore I33 opposite the recd 114 to seal the born I 33 between the reed 114 and the air output area of the bore 133.
The reed 114 is thus sealed within cylinder 101.
While the illustrated rod 135 is simple and requires only one part, alternative scaling mans could be used, such as sealing the aix output area of the bore 133 with plugs or the like in the =
finger holes 134 and in the air output end of the bore 133.
The cylinder 101 thus forms the reed chamber. Cylinder 102 forms the filter chamber containing filter material 1 l G and acti~rated charcoal 11$. Cylinder 103 forms the humidity controlling chamber and contains the humidity controlling mixture of salt 122, superabsorber 124, and water. Air is freely exchanged between the humidity contcloliing chamber, cylinder .-103, and the reed chamber, cylinder 101, through the filter chamber, cylinder 102. The container I 10 works in the same fashion as the container 10 described above, with the advantage that the reed 114 can be left in place in the chanter 130.
The i~nsfrument is illustrated as a bagpipe chanter, however the apparatus could be adapttd . .
for use on an oboe, bassoon, clarinet, or like instrument with appropriate modifications.
The foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous changes and rnodi8cations will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is net desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all such suitable changes or modifications in structure or vpemtion which may be resorted to azo intended to fall r~rithin the scope of the claimed invention. .
This invention is in the field ofreeds for musical instruments, and in particularthe storage of such reeds.
BACKGROlJIV'ltf It is well known that hmmidity controlled storage is desirable for musical reeds. While synthetic reeds, made from plastic and the liken, are gesnarally impervious to moisture, reeds made from natural materials, such as cant, absorb and give off moisture. When removed from storage and placed in the instrument for playing, it can take some playing time for the reed to absorb moisture from the player's breath so as to reach an equilibrium playing humidity. The tone of the instrument changes as the moisture content of the reed changes, and becomes satisfactorily constant once equilibrium is achieved. It is desirable to store the reeds at a humidity approximating the playing humidity to reduce the playing time squired to achieve erluilibrium.
Flat reeds, such as those used in a clarinet or saxophone arc preferably clamped to maintain their flat shape during storage. Double curved reeds, such as those used in a bagpipe, oboe, or bassoon are not clamped.
United States Patent Nuulbez~ 4,674,630 to Kirck provides a reed storage case.
The reeds arc clamped against the center wall of a reed slide which is then inserted into a substantially sealed case with a hygrastat comprising a mixture of salt, silica gel and activated charcoal.
In operation the reeds are first soaked, as if in preparation for playing. The length of eoabnS
time depends on the dryness of the reeds, but it is i~ndicxted that care must be taken not to introduce tva much moisture too quickly, since humidity near 100% may cause mold and mildew. Various ways are described to reduce the moisture in the case to the desized range.
io The hygrostat of the Kirck case maintains a substantially constant humidity in the cast but is unable to supply moisture to a dry reed, or apparently absorb sufficient moisture from the case when a reed is introduced into the case that is too wet. Considerable trial and error appears to be reduired in order to proporly stare reeds in the Kirck case.
Some wind instruments such as bagpipes present further problems with respect to reed -removal and storage. The reed iuo: a bagpipe comprises a pair of curved blades tied with a binding to a hollow reed insert, or staple. The exposed end of the staple is inserted into a socket in the air input end of the boa-c of tht chanter, which in turn is inserted into the bag.
2o Air from the bag is expelled between the curved blades, through the staple, and out through _hc~~4_ tha bore, either through the finger hales or the output end ofthc bore. A
string or hemp is typicallywrapped around the exposed end of the staple to control the depth ofinsertion ofthe ._ staple iato the socket. As this insertion depth varies, the tone and pitch of the chanter varies as well. Once the desired depth that results in the desired tone and pitch is achicvcd, it would be desirable to leave the recd in place in the chanter zathcr than going through the trial and error of reinserkion. This is presently not practical since it is aiso desirable to store the reed in a sealed container to maintain at aeast some humidity, especially in dry environments. .
Oboes, bassoons and like woodwind instruments have similar reeds where it is also desirable 1o to stare the reed in position on tlae instrument.
SiTMMAR''i~L' ~~"I'HE INVENT_~~
It is an object of the present invention to provide a storage apparatus for reeds that will t g maintain the reed at a desired humidity.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide such a storage apparatus that has the ability to absorb and supply moisture as reqwired to m~aintaiu, the Humidity oaf the storage ._ chamber at a desired level as reeds having varying moisture levels are placed in the storage chamber.
It is a further obj ect of the present invention to provide such a storage apparatus that can be attached to an instrument so that the reed can be left in place in the instrument while . .
being stored.
The present invention provides, in ono aspect, a storage apparatus for musical reeds comprising a container comprising a reed chamber adapted for haldittg a reed, and a humidity controlling chamber anraz~ged such that air is e,~cchanged substantially freely betw~n the recd chamber and the humidity controlling cbannbea~. ,A. hurraidity can~troliiuag rniMture, comprising a salt, a supcrabsorber, and water, :is contained within the humidity controlling chamber. The amount of water is such that a portion of the salt remains undissolvcd, and such that the water is satua~atad with the salt and is absorbed by the superabsorber.
In a secants aspect the present invention provides an apparatus for maintaining a reed at a substantially constant humidity while in its playing position in an air input end of a bore of 2o an instrument. The apparatus comprises a container comprising a reed chamber and a - Patre 6 - , humidity oontrollix~ chamber arranged such that air is exchanged substantially freely between the reed chamber and the humidity controlling chamber. The reed chamber has an open end adapted to be attached and soaled aver the rid and air input and of the bore. The hunnidity controlling chamber contains a humidity controlling mixture comprising a salt, a s superabsarbcr, and water, wherein the amount of water is such that a portion of the salt t'cmains undissolved, and such that the water is Saturated with the salt and is absorbed by the superabsorber. A seal is adapted to prevent arxxbient air from contacting the recd through an . .
air output arEa of the bore.
'1"he humidity conErolling mixture utilizes the known property of a salt solution to maintain a constant humidity by absorbing and :releasing moisture. Where the salt is potassium chloride humidity is maintained at about 85°/'o which has been found very suitable for bagpipe reeds.
Other salts may be used for different humidity levels for different reeds.
Sodium chloride salt maintains humidity at about 75°l° for example.
is ?he superabsorber is conveniently a polyacrylamide such as WatersorbTM, made by Polymers -Inc., of l:Iot Springs, .A,l~. When water i$ added to the salt and superabsorber, a portion of the salt dissolves to saturate the water, and the saturated water is absorbed by the superabsoxber.
A portion of the salt remains undissdlved, allowing the humidity controlling mixture to absorb further moisture from the container, such as when a~n overly wet reed is placed - PaL;e 7 -therein, and still maintain the water saturated with the salt to maintain the proper humidity.
Where a dry reed is placed in the container, moisture is drawn out of the superabsorber and into the container to raise the moisture level of the rued.
The addition of a supcrabsorber allows the humidity controlling rxiixturc to be substantially solid, avoiding spillage problemcxs associated with a liquid, while still allowing the salt solution to maintain the proper humidity. .A salt solution will supply humidity to the surrounding air until the solution is dried out. The supcrabsorber shows for storage of considerable salt solution in essentially a solid form, allowing the humidity controlling mixture to supply or absorb solution as required to either add or remove moisture from reeds to bring them to the desired m8isture level.
~'l~e apparatus of the invention can be adapted to an in,struxnent such as a bagpipe cheater, oboe, bassoon, or the like so that the road can be 1e$ in place in the instrument and sterol at a l s constant humidity. The container is attached to the air input end of the instrument so that tht reed is enclosed in the reed chamber, and then the instrument is sealed so that ambient air is =
prevented brom entering tlZe opposite output e:ad of the instrument and contacting the reed.
Conveniently a rod with a seal or plug on the end is pushed into the opposite output end of the instrument"s bore to seal the reed in the reed chamber where the humidity is controlled.
DESCR»'ITON OF T8E DRAWINGS:
While the invention is claimed in the concluding portions hereof, preferred embodiments arc provided in the accompanying detailed description which may be best understood in conjunction with the accompanying diagrams whera like parts in each of ttce sevGrsl diagrams are labeled with like numbers, and where:
Fig. 1 is a side view of a storage apparatus of the invention Fig. 2 is a cross-section view along 2 - 2 is Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 is a cross-section viavr along 3 - 3 in Fig. l;
Fig. 4 is a side view of a reed geld upright in a grommet;
Fig. 5 is side vices of an apparatus for usa on a bagpipe chantor to allow the reed to be _ left in place on the ohanbcr during cont~~olled humidity storage;
Fig. b is an end vie~uv of the apparatus of 1~ig. 5.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUST~TED EMBODIMENTS:
Fig. 1 illustrator a Storage apparat«s for musical coeds comprising a container 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the container 10 is made up of five clear plastic cylinders I, 2, 3, 4, 5 that screw together. The top three cylinders 1, 2, 3 form a reed chamber. The top cylinder 1 is sealed with a cog. The floor 1 F of the tog cylinder 1 is illustrated in Fig. 2, and defines a plurality of reed apertures 8 adapted to hold reeds 14. . _ A rubber groznznet 12 is glared in each reed aperture 8, and a reed 14 can be placed into each grommet 12, as illustrated in )~ig. 4. Xhe floor of the second cylinder 2 is removed so that them is no barrier between cylinders 2 and 3, and these two eylindcrs provido an open space to accommodate various reeds 14. Lf this space is not required, cylinder 2 could simply be removed.
The fourth cylinder 4 forms a filter chamber containing a filter material 16 and a quantity of activated charcoal 18. The activated charcoal 1$ absorbs organic molecules aad reduces =
organic activity and odors. The floor 3F of fine third cylinder 3 is illustrated in Fig. 3 and defines a plurality of air holes 20 that allow air to be exchanged freely between the filter chamber and reed chamber.
The til3h cylinder 5 forms a humidity controlling chamber. The floor 4F of the fourth cylinder 4 is the same as the floor 3F of the third cylinder 3 and defines similar air holes 20 that allow air to be exchanged freely betwttn the filter chamber and humidity contznlling chamber. The perforated floors 3F, 4F thus allow air to be exchanged freely between the teed chamber and the humidity controlling chamber through the filter chamber.
All air that passes back and forth is thus filtered by the activated charcoal 1$ and filter material 1 b, minimising ozganic activity. ..
Alternatively the reed, filter, and humidity cvz~troalxng chaanbez~s could be oriented side by side, or in various arrangements so long as au~ passes freoly throughout the container.
The humidity controlling chamber holds a humidity controlling mixture comprising a salt 22, a Superabsorber 24, and water. The amount of water is such that a porfiion ofthe salt 22 remains undissolved. The water is saturated with the salt 22 and is absorbed by the superabsorber 24. In the illustrated embodiment the superabsorbtr 24 comprises a polyacrylamide polymer. When water is added to the salt 22 and superabsorber 2A~, a portion of the Salt 22 dissolves to saturate the water and the saturated water is absorbed by t)ae supcrabsorber 24. As can be seen in Fig. 1, no liquid water zeznains in cylinder 5, as all has been absorbed.
-Pagell-Also as can be seen in Fig. 1, a portion of the salt 22 remains undissolved, allowing the humidity controlling mixture to absorb further moisture :From the container 10, such as when an overly wet reed is placed therein, and still maintain the water saturated with the salt 22 to maintain the proper humidity. Whc~xe a dry reed is placed is the container 10, moisture is drawn out Qf tb~e superabsarl~er 2rt and into the container 1 p to raise the moisture level of the reed 14.
For bagpipe reeds, it has been found that where the salt used is potassium chloride, and humidity is maintained at about 85%, good results are achieved as the reed plays fairly well as soon as it is removed from storage.
Fig. 5 illustrates an apparatus for maintaining a reed 11 a at a substantially constant humidity while in its playing gasition in an air input end of the bore 133 of an instrument, illustrated as a bagpipe chanter 134. Foz playing, the zcod 114 is inserted into the upper end of a read socket T 32 in the air input end of the bore 13:3 at the reed end 131 of the instrument. The lpwer end of the reed socket 132 co~nnmunicates with the bore 133 so that sir entering the upper end of the reed socket 132 passes through tho bore to the air output area of the lore 133 comprising the finger holes I 34 and the air output end of the bore 133.
The apparatus comprises a container 110 comprising three piastic cylinders 141,102, 103 - page 12 -screwed together as in container I 0 described above. The floats between cylinders 1 O 1,102, I03 are perforated with air holes as in the floor illustrated in Fig. 3 so that air is exchanged fi~eeiy between the cylinders.
The lower end of the cylinder 101 defines a rood aperture 108 that is surrounded by a seal 113. The apparatus 110 is placed over the read 114 and secured to the reed end 131 of the chanter 130 by turning lock screw 1 I 5 which then bears against the wall of the reed ertd I31 . -of the chanter 130. The seal 113 seals against the rued end 131 of the chanter 130 so that amibicnt air is substaatiallyprevented from entering the cylinder 101. To prevent ambient air from reaching the reed through the air output area ofthe bore 133 a seal, illustrated as a rod 135 having a sealing end 13G is ixuserted into the air output end of the bore I33 opposite the recd 114 to seal the born I 33 between the reed 114 and the air output area of the bore 133.
The reed 114 is thus sealed within cylinder 101.
While the illustrated rod 135 is simple and requires only one part, alternative scaling mans could be used, such as sealing the aix output area of the bore 133 with plugs or the like in the =
finger holes 134 and in the air output end of the bore 133.
The cylinder 101 thus forms the reed chamber. Cylinder 102 forms the filter chamber containing filter material 1 l G and acti~rated charcoal 11$. Cylinder 103 forms the humidity controlling chamber and contains the humidity controlling mixture of salt 122, superabsorber 124, and water. Air is freely exchanged between the humidity contcloliing chamber, cylinder .-103, and the reed chamber, cylinder 101, through the filter chamber, cylinder 102. The container I 10 works in the same fashion as the container 10 described above, with the advantage that the reed 114 can be left in place in the chanter 130.
The i~nsfrument is illustrated as a bagpipe chanter, however the apparatus could be adapttd . .
for use on an oboe, bassoon, clarinet, or like instrument with appropriate modifications.
The foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous changes and rnodi8cations will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is net desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all such suitable changes or modifications in structure or vpemtion which may be resorted to azo intended to fall r~rithin the scope of the claimed invention. .
Claims (12)
1. A storage apparatus for musical reeds comprising:
a container comprising a reed chamber adapted for holding a reed, and a humidity controlling chamber arranged such that air is exchanged substantially freely between the reed chamber and the humidity controlling chamber;
a humidity controlling mixture comprising a salt, a superabsorber, and water, the humidity controlling mixture contained within the humidity controlling chamber, wherein the amount of water is such that a portion of the salt remains undissolved, and such that the water is saturated with the salt and is absorbed by the superabsorber.
a container comprising a reed chamber adapted for holding a reed, and a humidity controlling chamber arranged such that air is exchanged substantially freely between the reed chamber and the humidity controlling chamber;
a humidity controlling mixture comprising a salt, a superabsorber, and water, the humidity controlling mixture contained within the humidity controlling chamber, wherein the amount of water is such that a portion of the salt remains undissolved, and such that the water is saturated with the salt and is absorbed by the superabsorber.
2. The apparatus of Claim 1 wherein the superabsorber comprises a polyacrylamide polymer.
-page 15-
-page 15-
3. The apparatus of any one of Claims 1 and 2 wherein the salt is potassium chloride.
4. The apparatus of any one of Claims 1 - 3 wherein the container further comprises a filter chamber arranged such that air is exchanged substantially freely between the filter chamber and reed chamber, and between the filter chamber and the humidity controlling chamber, and wherein the filter chamber contains a filter material and activated charcoal.
5. The apparatus of Claim 4 wherein the filter chamber is located between the reed chamber and the humidity controlling chamber such that air that is exchanged between the reed chamber and the humidity controlling chamber passes through the activated carbon and alter material.
6. An apparatus for maintaining a reed at a substantially constant humidity while in its playing position in an air input end of a bore of an instrument, the apparatus comprising:
a container comprising a reed chamber and a humidity controlling chamber arranged such that air is exchanged substantially freely between the reed chamber and the humidity controlling chamber:
wherein the reed chamber has an open end adapted to be attached and sealed over the reed and air input end of the bore;
a humidity controlling mixture comprising a salt, a superabsorber, and water, the humidity controlling mixture contained within the humidity controlling chamber, wherein the amount of water is such that a portion of the salt remains undissolved, and such that the water is saturated with the salt and is absorbed by the superabsorber; and a seal adapted to prevent ambient air from contacting the reed through an air output area of the bore.
a container comprising a reed chamber and a humidity controlling chamber arranged such that air is exchanged substantially freely between the reed chamber and the humidity controlling chamber:
wherein the reed chamber has an open end adapted to be attached and sealed over the reed and air input end of the bore;
a humidity controlling mixture comprising a salt, a superabsorber, and water, the humidity controlling mixture contained within the humidity controlling chamber, wherein the amount of water is such that a portion of the salt remains undissolved, and such that the water is saturated with the salt and is absorbed by the superabsorber; and a seal adapted to prevent ambient air from contacting the reed through an air output area of the bore.
7. The apparatus of Claim 6 wherein the seal comprises a rod having a scaling end adapted to be inserted into an air output end of the bore opposite the air input end to seal the bore between the reed and the air output area of the bore.
8. The apparatus of any one of Claims 6 and 7 wherein the superabsorber comprises a polyacrylamide polymer.
9. The apparatus of any one of Claims 6-8 wherein the salt is potassium chloride.
10. The apparatus of any one of Claims 6-9 wherein the container further comprises a filter chamber arranged such that air is exchanged substantially freely between the filter chamber and reed chamber, and between the filter chamber and the humidity controlling chamber, and wherein the filter chamber contains a filter material and activated charcoal.
11. The apparatus of Claim 10 wherein the filter chamber is located between the reed chamber and the humidity controlling chamber such that air that is exchanged between the reed chamber and the humidity controlling chamber passes through the activated carbon and filter material.
12. The apparatus of Claim 11 wherein the filter chamber is attached to an end of the reed chamber opposite the open end thereof, and wherein the humidity controlling chamber is attached to the filter chamber on an end thereof opposite the reed chamber.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2385373A CA2385373C (en) | 2002-05-07 | 2002-05-07 | Storage of reeds for bagpipes and the like |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2385373A CA2385373C (en) | 2002-05-07 | 2002-05-07 | Storage of reeds for bagpipes and the like |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2385373A1 CA2385373A1 (en) | 2003-11-07 |
| CA2385373C true CA2385373C (en) | 2011-05-03 |
Family
ID=29410100
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2385373A Expired - Lifetime CA2385373C (en) | 2002-05-07 | 2002-05-07 | Storage of reeds for bagpipes and the like |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2385373C (en) |
-
2002
- 2002-05-07 CA CA2385373A patent/CA2385373C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2385373A1 (en) | 2003-11-07 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKEX | Expiry |
Effective date: 20220509 |