Toned instruments for outdoor installation

Abstract

The present application discloses a tonal musical instrument for outdoor installation. The tonal musical instrument may include a support, wherein the support is configured to be attached to an outdoor surface; at least one non-vibrating guard; a metal plate, the metal plate being tuned to produce at least one note on a musical scale when struck by a user; and one or more fasteners, securing the at least one non-vibrating guard and the metal plate to the support.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to a toned musical instrument for outdoor installation. Background Art

[0002] Music is a global artistic language that creates community, connection and belonging. Some studies suggest that music is older than speech and language, and that speech may have even evolved from music. The primal power of music evokes emotions, memories and images, taking participants on a magical journey.

[0003] Research shows that musicals are a key component of child development. Music helps build reasoning and cognitive abilities. It increases memory, improves time management and organizational skills, and fosters perseverance. Playing music builds confidence, encourages creativity and self-expression. It reduces anxiety, decreases symptoms of depression, and elevates mood. The Brain and Creativity Institute found that musical experiences in childhood accelerate brain development, specifically in the areas of language acquisition and reading skills.

[0004] Research also shows that being outdoors promotes children's growth. Nature is essential to all major aspects of children's development - intellectual, emotional, social, spiritual and physical. Kellert, Stephen R., "Nature and Childhood Development", In Building for Life: Designing and Understanding the Human-Nature Connection, Island Press, 2005 (Stephen R. Kellert, "Nature and Childhood Development", In Building for Life: Designing and Understanding the Human-Nature Connection, Island Press, 2005). "Outdoor experiences have the potential to provide multiple benefits in young people's physical development, emotional and mental health, and well-being and social development. The benefits of play in natural environments on mental health and well-being appear to be long-term and can be achieved by maintaining emotional stability in adolescence." Travlou, Penny, "Wild Adventure Space For Young People", OPENspace Individual Literature Reviews (2006) (Penny Travlou, "Wild Adventure Space For Young People", Open Space Individual Literature Reviews, 2006).

[0005] In this way, musical instruments placed in outdoor learning environments enable "children to explore the natural sounds of the environment, make loud music, create music individually and collaboratively, and move expressively." Spencer, Karin H, et al., Quality Outdoor Play Spaces for Young Children, Young Children, pp. 28-34 (2014).

[0006] However, many outdoor instruments are silent, and traditional instruments are not constructed to withstand extreme outdoor conditions. Summary of the invention

[0007] Embodiments of the tonal musical instrument of the present disclosure include: a support configured to be mounted to an outdoor surface so as to extend from the surface; and a metal plate tuned to produce at least one note when struck by a user. The metal plate may be secured to the support by one or more fasteners. In some embodiments, the instrument may further include a non-vibrating guard. For example, in some embodiments, the metal plate may be secured between the support and the non-vibrating guard.

[0008] The musical instrument may also include one or more hammers that a user can use to strike the metal plate to produce a note. Each hammer can be connected to the musical instrument via a cable, which can be a retractable cable or a non-retractable cable. For example, in some embodiments, one or more hammers can be attached to a portion of a support. In other embodiments, one or more hammers can be attached to another structure, such as a hammer support structure. In some embodiments, one or more hammers can be attached to the musical instrument or to the hammer support structure via a tamper-proof connection to prevent the hammers from falling off.

[0009] In some embodiments, the metal plate may include multiple segments, each segment being independently tuned to produce a different note when struck by a user. For example, in some embodiments, the metal plate may include four segments tuned to produce four different notes. The four segments may be positioned in different directions around the end of the pillar, for example, a first segment at the upper left, a second segment at the upper right, a third segment at the lower right, and a fourth segment at the lower left. For example, in some embodiments, the combination of the metal plate and the pillar and the optional non-vibrating guard may replicate a flower or a four-leaf clover.

[0010] In some embodiments, each segment of the metal plate can be configured to produce a different note by providing each segment with slightly different dimensions (e.g., different surface areas). In some embodiments, the rear surface of each segment can also be milled, i.e., metal can be removed from the rear surface in a controlled manner to sharpen or flatten the notes produced by the segment. In some embodiments, the notes produced by each segment of the metal plate can be from the same scale (e.g., C major, etc.). Each note can desirably be at least 90% accurate (e.g., as measured by a tuner), more preferably at least 95% accurate, more preferably at least 98% accurate, more preferably at least 99% accurate.

[0011] In some embodiments, the tonal instrument may include multiple metal plates extending from the same support. Each of the multiple metal plates may be configured to produce a single note, or each of the multiple metal plates may be configured to produce more than one note. In some embodiments, the notes produced by each metal plate may be from the same scale (e.g., C major, etc.). Each note may desirably be at least 90% accurate (e.g., as measured by a tuner), more preferably at least 95% accurate, more preferably at least 98% accurate, and more preferably at least 99% accurate.

[0012] In some embodiments, the tonal instrument is configured to withstand prolonged outdoor use. For example, the instrument can withstand a variety of atmospheric conditions, including but not limited to heat, cold, dryness, sunlight, wind, rain, and snow. For example, one or more components, such as one or more metal plates, and / or one or more exposed connections can resist water damage. In some embodiments, for example, the metal plates can be aluminum. The instrument can also be configured to withstand frequent heavy playing. The tonal instrument can be designed to be durable and require little or no maintenance. Even with regular use, the metal plates can maintain their tonal quality without the need for re-tuning.

[0013] In addition to withstanding the stresses of outdoor installations, the design of a toned instrument can include a variety of features to enhance the enjoyment and satisfaction of the player. These features include: providing an ergonomic design to enhance ease of playing; providing combinations of notes that sound good (they come from the same musical scale); and configuring the instrument for accurate and sustained notes.

[0014] The ergonomic design of the tonal instrument can be configured to facilitate playing. By providing a large surface area for the player to strike, the ability to continuously produce musical notes and to generate melodies from these notes will naturally emerge or be easily developed by people of all ages and skills. Moreover, in some embodiments, whether the player strikes the instrument in the middle of the metal plate (or a portion of the metal plate) or near the edge, the notes can resonate in a generally similar manner. In addition, each instrument may be equipped with easy-to-use mallets designed to produce the most complete sound from each note. The instrument can also be placed at an angle to maximize ease of playing for children, adults, the elderly, and the disabled.

[0015] In some embodiments, a tonal instrument may allow a user to produce a combination of notes that work together - producing harmonious and complementary sounds. The different notes may be created by providing a metal plate with multiple segments, where each segment is configured to produce a note, and / or by providing multiple metal plates, each of which is configured to produce one or more notes. The different notes may all belong to the same scale to ensure that the notes do not conflict with each other. This may promote a pleasant and pleasing sound combination to play.

[0016] In some embodiments, a tonal instrument can be configured so that one or more notes can last for a long time after the metal plate is struck. This can be achieved by the vibration of the metal plate itself, and does not require the use of any other elastomeric material. Therefore, the metal plate can be described as "self-sustaining" for the desired duration. When the notes last longer, the player can hear the harmony produced by striking different notes; they do not have to hit them very quickly. This makes it relatively easy for the user to create pleasing melodies. In addition, because the sound lasts longer, the experience may be more satisfying. For example, in some embodiments, the notes can last for 5 seconds or more, or 10 seconds or more, or 15 seconds or more, or 20 seconds or more, or 25 seconds or more, or 30 seconds or more.

[0017] In some embodiments, the tonal instrument may be configured to replicate commonly recognizable objects, thereby increasing the level of surprise and enjoyment in hearing musical notes as various parts of the object are struck. For example, the instrument may take on a variety of shapes, including shapes consistent with outdoor or natural themes or objects such as flowers, trees, other plants, mushrooms, animals, insects, butterflies, etc. The instrument may also take on a variety of other custom shapes, such as may be desired to be consistent with themed amusement park features, such as pirate ships, castles, hearts, etc.

[0018] In some embodiments, the metal sheet may be formed to have a periphery in the shape of a flower, a corolla, one or more petals, a clover, one or more leaves, one or more branches of a tree, or a combination thereof. One or more metal sheets may also be positioned on the support in a manner that replicates the appearance of a plant, flower, or tree. Finally, the support may be configured to resemble a portion of a plant, flower, or tree, such as a flower stem, a tree trunk, a central stem of a plant, etc.

[0019] Features of tonal instruments can allow for individual and group performances. For example, using embodiments of tonal instruments described herein, complex combinations of notes can be created by having multiple people play a single instrument simultaneously or multiple instruments placed near each other simultaneously - similar to how the various instruments in a band come together to form a coherent and beautiful piece of music.

[0020] In some embodiments, the tonal instrument includes a brace, wherein the brace is configured for attachment to an outdoor surface, at least one non-vibrating guard, a metal plate tuned to produce at least one note on a musical scale when struck by a user; and one or more fasteners securing the at least one non-vibrating guard and the metal plate to the brace.

[0021] In another embodiment, the metal plate includes a plurality of segments, each segment being tuned to produce at least one note on a musical scale when struck by a user. In another embodiment, the metal plate includes a plurality of segments, each segment being tuned to produce a different note on a musical scale than the other segments when struck by a user.

[0022] In another embodiment, the metal plate includes four sections that are tuned to produce at least four different notes on a musical scale. In yet another embodiment, each section has a different surface area. In another embodiment, the rear surface of each section is independently milled to provide each note. In yet another embodiment, at least one section can be used as a handle. In some embodiments, the tonal instrument includes a plurality of metal plates that are tuned to produce different notes on a musical scale. In another embodiment, the different notes are within the same musical scale.

[0023] In some embodiments, the metal plate comprises a perimeter having a shape of a natural object. In another embodiment, the shape is selected from the group consisting of a flower, a corolla, one or more petals, a clover, one or more leaves, one or more branches of a tree, a butterfly, or a combination thereof.

[0024] In some embodiments, the metal plate comprises a perimeter having a shape of a singular object. In another embodiment, the shape is selected from the group consisting of a heart, a pirate ship, a castle, a flag, a sculls and / or a crossbones, or a combination thereof.

[0025] In some embodiments, the metal plate comprises aluminum. In another embodiment, the metal plate is aluminum.

[0026] In some embodiments, the back surface of the metal plate is milled to provide one or more notes. In another embodiment, the note accuracy of the metal plate is at least 90%. In yet another embodiment, when the user strikes the metal plate, the note lasts for at least 5 seconds. In another embodiment, when the user strikes the metal plate, the note lasts for at least 15 seconds.

[0027] In some embodiments, the tonal instrument further comprises at least one hammer.In yet another embodiment, the hammer is attached to the support via a cable.

[0028] In some embodiments, the non-vibrating guard comprises high density polyethylene (HDPE), high density polyethylene plastic (PEHD), or metal. In another embodiment, the non-vibrating guard comprises at least a front guard and a rear guard. In yet another embodiment, the one or more fasteners are selected from the group consisting of screws and bolts. In yet another embodiment, the one or more fasteners are placed through the metal plate, the non-vibrating guard, and the mounting plate of the support.

[0029] In some embodiments, the posts are permanently attached to the ground or playing field surface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Figure 1 A flower-shaped tonal instrument according to one embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0031] Figure 2 An aluminum sheet in the shape of a petal is depicted according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 3 A front guard according to one embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0033] Figure 4 A rear guard according to one embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0034] Figure 5 A support column according to one embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0035] Figure 6 A tonal musical instrument in the shape of a tree is depicted according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 7 A cardioid-shaped tonal instrument according to one embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0037] Figure 8 A tonal musical instrument in the shape of a butterfly according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Percussion instruments configured for outdoor installation are disclosed. These instruments may be tuned nearly perfectly and produce music that everyone can enjoy, regardless of age, ability, or musical training. Minimal motor skills are required to activate a pure sense of harmony, providing enjoyment for all players. The percussion instruments are also configured to withstand a variety of outdoor environments.

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

[0040] Figure 1 A tonal instrument according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. In the illustrated embodiment, the tonal instrument has the shape and appearance of a flower. Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, reference is made to Figure 1 , the flower-shaped tuning instrument 101 includes a metal plate 102, a non-vibrating front guard 103, a non-vibrating rear guard 104, hammers 105 and pillars 106.

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

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

[0043] Figure 2 A metal sheet 102 is depicted according to one embodiment of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, the metal sheet 102 is cut to resemble the petals of a flower, collectively referred to as a corolla. In other embodiments, the metal sheet 102 may be cut to resemble other natural forms, including but not limited to flower petals, leaves, plants, branches, or other foliage. In some embodiments, the width of the metal sheet 102 is at least 19 inches, or at least 20 inches, or at least 21 inches, or at least 22 inches, or at least 23 inches, or at least 24 inches, or at least 25 inches, or at least 26 inches.

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

[0045] In some embodiments, the notes produced by the musical instruments may all be within the same scale. In some embodiments, for example, the notes produced by the tonal instruments may fall within the pentatonic scale. The pentatonic scale is a scale with five notes per octave. This scale can be used to introduce beginners to music because it is relatively simple. It is also common in many types of traditional music. In some embodiments, the notes produced by the tonal instruments may fall within the heptatonic scale, which is the most common seven-note scale in Western music. In other embodiments, the notes produced by the tonal instruments may be diatonic, triatonic, tetratonic, hexatonic, or octatonic.

[0046] In some embodiments, a single metal plate 102 is used to produce each note, for example by combining multiple segments 107. The use of a single metal plate 102 can reduce material costs and in some cases may result in a more realistic biomimetic form.

[0047] In some embodiments, the metal plate 102 can be prepared by cutting from a sheet of metal (e.g., an aluminum sheet). For example, the metal plate can be cut by sawing, shearing, or chiseling (all with manual and electric versions); welded with a handheld electric welder (such as an oxy-fuel welder or a plasma welder); or cut via computer numerical control (CNC) (using a laser, a milling cutter, welding, or a water jet). In some embodiments, the metal plate 102 is at least 1 / 4 thick. In some embodiments, the metal plate 102 has a rounded peripheral edge. In another embodiment, the rounded edge is at least 1 / 8 thick. In yet another embodiment, at least one hole 108 is drilled in the metal plate 102, preferably near the center or end of the metal plate 102. In Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, for example, four holes 108 are drilled near the center of the metal plate. Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, on the other hand, two holes are drilled near the ends of the metal plate.

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

[0049] In some embodiments, the metal plate 102 and / or individual sections 107 of the metal plate can be adjusted by milling the rear surface of the metal plate. Milling is the process of cutting or scraping to remove material from the surface of the metal. The milling process allows the thickness of the metal plate 102 and / or individual sections 107 to be fine-tuned.

[0050] This milling process allows for precise tuning of the musical instrument. For example, to increase the clarity of the sound produced, milling can be done from the outer edge of the metal plate 102 or segment 107 that produces the note toward the center of the metal plate or segment that produces the note. Alternatively, to increase the flatness of the sound produced, milling can be done from the center of the metal plate 102 or segment 107 that produces the note toward the outer edge of the metal plate or segment that produces the note. Tuning of the instrument by milling can be accompanied or facilitated by the use of an electronic tuner or the like.

[0051] This allows for the production of very pitch-accurate metal plates 102 and segments 107. For example, in some embodiments, the tuned instrument can have a pitch accuracy of at least 90%, preferably 95%, and more preferably 99%. This milling process is a unique and novel technique for outdoor instrument tuning. Fine-tuned milling allows for precise notes on a pitch scale, rather than the pitch chimes commonly found in traditional outdoor instruments. In addition, the tuned instrument will maintain accuracy of pitch when exposed to the outdoors.

[0052] In some embodiments, the notes are randomized on the metal plate 102 or section 107. In another embodiment, the notes are ordered by increasing pitch on the metal plate 102 or section 107. In yet another embodiment, the pitch notes are ordered by decreasing spacing on the metal plate 102 or section 107.

[0053] In some embodiments, the musical instrument 101 may further include at least one non-vibrating element. In some embodiments, the non-vibrating element may include a front guard 103. In yet another embodiment, the non-vibrating element may include a rear guard 104. In yet another embodiment, both the front guard 103 and the rear guard 104 may be present. Figure 3 and Figure 4 103 and the rear guard 104 are shown in FIG. In some embodiments, the non-vibrating element allows the sound from the toned instrument to be retained without an elastomeric component. In some embodiments, the addition of an elastomeric material can be used for the non-vibrating element in order to maintain the non-vibrating characteristics. In some embodiments, there is an elastomeric component between the non-vibrating element and the metal plate 102. In some embodiments, the elastomeric component is a synthetic or natural rubber.

[0054] In some embodiments, the front guard 103 can be plastic. In other embodiments, the front guard 103 can be thermoplastic, including but not limited to high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or high-density polyethylene plastic (PEHD). In yet another embodiment, the front guard 103 includes an inner hub and an outer hub. In some embodiments, the thickness of the outer hub is at least 3 / 8. In some embodiments, the thickness of the inner hub is at least 5 / 8. In some embodiments, the front guard 103 includes at least one hole. In yet another embodiment, the front guard 103 may include four holes. These holes may allow the front guard 103 to be attached to the metal plate 102 and / or the pillar 106.

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

[0056] In yet another embodiment, the tonal musical instrument 101 includes a rear guard 104 that may be plastic. In other embodiments, the rear guard 104 may be thermoplastic, including but not limited to high density polyethylene (HDPE) or high density polyethylene plastic (PEHD). In yet another embodiment, the rear guard 104 has a raised portion that is at least 3 / 4 thick. In some embodiments, the rear guard 104 includes at least one hole. In yet another embodiment, the rear guard 104 may include four holes, wherein the holes are evenly distributed on the raised portion 152. These holes may allow the front guard 103 to be attached to the metal plate 102 and / or the support 106.

[0057] In some embodiments, the rear guard 104 is metal. In another embodiment, the front guard has a rectangular portion with at least one hole that allows the rear guard 104 to be attached to the metal plate 102 and / or the support 106.

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

[0059] Embodiments of the tonal musical instrument produce notes that last for a relatively long time. For example, in some embodiments, the rear surface of the metal plate 102 and / or the various sections of the metal plate 107 may be configured to have a specific curvature, which provides for continuous vibration of the plate and thus provides continuous sound resonance. Most instruments with sustained notes require a separate sustainer (usually containing one or more elastomeric elements) to extend the sound when the notes on the instrument are played. However, the tonal musical instrument of the present disclosure provides a self-sustaining sound without any additional elastomeric components. For example, in some embodiments, a non-vibrating guard allows the metal plate 102 to be securely bolted to the support 106, which eliminates the need for any elastic component to maintain the sound by restricting the movement of the sound waves.

[0060] For example, in some embodiments, the sound can last for at least 5 seconds, or at least 10 seconds, or at least 15 seconds, or at least 20 seconds, or at least 25 seconds. In yet another embodiment, the sound can last for up to 30 seconds.

[0061] The tonal instrument 101 may also include a support 106. In some embodiments, for example Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the support column 106 may include an upper mounting plate 150 and a lower mounting plate 151 to which a metal plate may be mounted. In some embodiments, the mounting plate 150 may be configured to not vibrate. For example, in Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the upper end of the support post 106 includes a mounting plate 150. The lower end of the support post 106 includes a base plate.

[0062] In some embodiments, the support 106 can be metal, including but not limited to steel. For example, in some embodiments, the support 106 can include galvanized steel pipe. In another embodiment, the support 106 can be a powder-coated steel frame.

[0063] In some embodiments, the support 106 may extend vertically from the ground or playing field surface to which it is mounted, thereby placing one or more metal plates 102 at a desired height to be struck by users of different heights. In some embodiments, the support 106 may be straight. In other embodiments, the support 106 may be curved or angled to place the mounting plate 150 at a desired angle to place one or more metal plates 102.

[0064] In some embodiments, the mounting plate 150 may include one or more apertures. The one or more apertures may be configured to attach the support post 106 to one or more of the metal plate 102, the front guard 103, and the rear guard 104. In some embodiments, the mounting plate 150 is permanently connected to the support post 106, such as by welding.

[0065] In some embodiments, substrate 151 may include one or more apertures. One or more apertures allow pillar 106 to be attached to an outdoor surface, including but not limited to the ground or composite material, such as concrete or another surface, including a playground surface. In some embodiments, pillar 106 is semi-permanently attached to the ground or second surface. In another embodiment, pillar 106 is permanently attached to the ground or second surface. This attachment allows the tonal instrument to withstand outdoor environments and protect the instrument from theft or vandalism. In another embodiment, the pillar is attached to a concrete pad. In some embodiments, the concrete pad is at least 16 inches long, at least 16 inches wide and at least 6 inches thick. If the concrete pad is at an angle, spacers or washers are used, including but not limited to steel washers.

[0066] The tonal instrument 101 may also include one or more hammers 105. In some embodiments, each hammer may be attached to a support 106, such as by a cable. In some embodiments, the head of the hammer 105 may be plastic. For example, in some embodiments, the head of the hammer 105 may be polyurethane. In some embodiments, the head of the hammer may have a hardness between about 60 and about 80, or a hardness between about 65 and about 75. In some embodiments, the head of the hammer may have a hardness of about 70.

[0067] Certain embodiments of the tonal musical instrument 101 include: a post 106, wherein the post 106 is configured for attachment to an outdoor surface; a non-vibrating rear guard 104; a metal plate 102, which is tuned to produce at least one note on a musical scale; a non-vibrating front guard 103 and fasteners 200, wherein the fasteners 200 are placed through the front guard 103, the metal plate 102, and the rear guard 104 to secure the assembly to the post 106. In embodiments, the fasteners 200 may include, but are not limited to, screws and / or bolts. This unique attachment allows the vibrating metal plate 102 to be attached to the non-vibrating front guard 103 and the non-vibrating rear guard 104, rather than directly to the post 106. The attachment may be permanent or semi-permanent. In some embodiments, one or more hammers 105 may be further attached to the post.

[0068] Figure 6 A tonal instrument according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. In the embodiment shown, the tonal instrument has the shape and appearance of a tree. Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the tree-shaped tonal instrument 301 includes a plurality of metal plates 102, a plurality of non-vibrating guards 108, a plurality of hammers 105, and a central support 106. Each of the plurality of metal plates 102 may be configured to produce a different note.

[0069] Figure 7 A tonal instrument according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. In the embodiment shown, the tonal instrument has a series of cardioid shapes and appearances. Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the tonal instrument 401 includes a plurality of metal plates 102, a plurality of non-vibrating guards, and a central support 106. Each of the plurality of metal plates 102 may be configured to produce a different note.

[0070] Figure 8 A tonal instrument according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. In the embodiment shown, the tonal instrument has the shape and appearance of a butterfly. Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the tonal instrument 501 includes a metal plate 102 having two sections 107 and a handle 108. Each section 107 can be configured to produce a different musical note. In some embodiments, the instrument can also be configured to enhance music education. For example, in some embodiments, each note can be clearly identified on the instrument. For example, one or more metal plates or sections of a metal plate can include markings, such as inscriptions on the metal plate, to indicate the note played when a particular area is struck. In some embodiments, the instrument can also include notes from multiple scales. For example, some instruments may have a major scale on one metal plate or section and a corresponding minor scale on another metal plate or section. In addition to interesting musical exploration, this can also provide education about various scales.

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

[0072] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is well suited to achieving the objectives and obtaining the objects and advantages mentioned and the objects and advantages inherent therein. The embodiments, methods, processes and techniques described herein currently represent preferred embodiments and are intended to be examples and are not intended to limit the scope. Those skilled in the art will appreciate changes and other uses therein, which are included in the spirit of the present invention and are limited by the scope of the appended claims. Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the claimed invention should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. In fact, it is apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications of the described modes for implementing the present invention are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A tonal musical instrument for outdoor installation, the tonal musical instrument comprising: a support column, wherein the support column is configured to be attached to an outdoor surface, at least one non-vibrating guard, including at least a front guard and a rear guard, a metal plate tuned to produce at least one note on a musical scale when struck by a user, and one or more fasteners securing the at least one non-vibrating guard and the metal plate to the support, the metal plate comprising a plurality of segments, each segment being tuned to produce at least one note on a musical scale when struck by a user, and The plurality of sections extend in different directions from an end of the support column to which the metal plate is fixed.

2. The tonal musical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: Each segment is tuned to produce a different note on the musical scale than the other segments when struck by the user.

3. The tonal musical instrument according to claim 2, wherein: The metal plate includes four segments that are tuned to produce at least four different notes on a musical scale.

4. A tonal musical instrument according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: Each segment has a different surface area.

5. The tonal musical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: The rear surface of each section is independently milled to provide each note.

6. The tonal musical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: The metal plate includes a perimeter having a shape of a natural object.

7. A tonal musical instrument according to claim 6, wherein: The shape is selected from the group consisting of a flower, a corolla, one or more petals, a clover, one or more leaves, one or more branches of a tree, a butterfly, or a combination thereof.

8. The tonal musical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: The metal plate includes aluminum.

9. The tonal musical instrument according to claim 8, wherein: The metal plate is made of aluminum.

10. The tonal musical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: The rear surface of the metal plate is milled to provide one or more musical notes.

11. The tonal musical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: The metal plate has a note accuracy of at least 90%.

12. The tonal musical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: When the user strikes the metal plate, the note lasts for at least 5 seconds.

13. A tonal musical instrument according to claim 12, wherein: When the user strikes the metal plate, the note lasts for at least 15 seconds.

14. The tonal instrument of claim 1, further comprising at least one hammer.

15. A tonal musical instrument according to claim 14, wherein: The hammer is attached to the support post by a cable.

16. The tonal musical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: The non-vibrating guard comprises high-density polyethylene, high-density polyethylene plastic or metal.

17. The tonal musical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: The one or more fasteners are selected from the group consisting of screws and bolts.

18. The tonal musical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: The one or more fasteners are placed through the metal plate, the non-vibrating guard, and the mounting plate of the strut.

19. The tonal musical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: The posts are permanently attached to the ground or playing field surface.

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