Improved harmonica

Abstract

The invention relates to a harmonica (100) comprising at least: a. a comb (130) comprising a plurality of chambers (131); b. a first plate (110) comprising a plurality of blow reeds (111); c. a second plate (120) comprising a plurality of draw reeds (121); the harmonica (100) being characterized in that: d. each chamber of the plurality of chambers (131) comprises at least one material protrusion, each material protrusion being configured to reduce the oscillation space of a draw reed (121); and in that the harmonica comprises: at least one additional plate (150) arranged above the first plate (110) and comprising a plurality of additional material protrusions (155), each additional material protrusion (155) of the plurality of additional material protrusions (155) being configured to reduce the oscillation space of a blow reed (111).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of harmonicas, and more generally to free-reed wind instruments. The invention has discovered particularly advantageous applications in the field of diatonic harmonicas. Background Technology

[0002] Usually, such as Figure 1 The diatonic harmonica 10 shown includes:

[0003] a. A comb-like member 11, the comb-like member 11 including a plurality of chambers 131;

[0004] b. Two metal plates 110 and 120 having reeds 111 and 121, plate 110 for blowing reed 111 and plate 120 for drawing reed 121, the blowing reed 111 and the drawing reed 121 facing each other;

[0005] c. and two covers 160 for holding the harmonica 10.

[0006] It should be emphasized that when a person blows air into the harmonica, most of the air is expelled through the blow reed 111, which produces sound by vibration, but a small amount of air escapes through the inhale reed 121. Similarly, when a person inhales, most of the air passes through the inhale reed 121, but a small amount of air also passes through the blow reed 111.

[0007] In certain very specific situations, users prefer the opposite: vibrating only the inhalation reed 121 during exhalation or only the exhalation reed 111 during inhalation. This is possible when the user is an experienced user—that is, someone proficient in the instrument—and when they position their tongue very specifically during exhalation or inhalation. This technique is difficult to master and depends on multiple endogenous factors, such as breath control and tongue muscles, as well as multiple exogenous factors, such as those related to the instrument itself.

[0008] It should be remembered that the chamber 131 of the harmonica 10 is not an airtight space, so air passes through all possible areas when the user blows or inhales. This raises several instrumental technical issues, primarily requiring different positions of the user's tongue for better control of airflow pressure. These different techniques allow for notes that are not originally produced by the instrument and allow for adjustment primarily through the airflow within and around the chamber.

[0009] Other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description and drawings. It should be understood that other benefits may be included. Summary of the Invention

[0010] This invention relates to a harmonica, preferably a diatonic harmonica, which comprises at least:

[0011] a. A comb-like element comprising a plurality of chambers, each chamber including an opening configured to allow a user's breathing air to pass through, each chamber defining an oscillation space for an inhalation reed and an oscillation space for an inhalation reed, the inhalation reed and the inhalation reed of each chamber defining a pair of complementary reeds;

[0012] b. A first plate, the first plate comprising a plurality of air-blowing reeds, the first plate being arranged opposite a first face of the comb, preferably, the first plate being arranged opposite an upper face of the comb, each of the plurality of air-blowing reeds being configured to oscillate in an oscillation space of the air-blowing reed when the user blows air into a chamber that defines the oscillation space;

[0013] c. A second plate comprising a plurality of suction springs, the second plate being arranged opposite a second face of the comb, preferably, the second plate being arranged opposite a lower face of the comb, each of the plurality of suction springs being configured to oscillate in the oscillation space of the suction spring when the user inhales at least from a chamber that defines the oscillation space;

[0014] The characteristics of this harmonica are:

[0015] d. At least a portion of the plurality of chambers includes at least one material protrusion, each material protrusion being arranged at least partially opposite a portion of the inhalation reed, and each material protrusion being preferably configured to: reduce the oscillation space of the inhalation reed when the user inhales from the chamber of the inhalation reed, preferably when the user inhales from the chamber of the inhalation reed by positioning his tongue to cause the exhalation reed to oscillate, advantageously when the position of the user's tongue is used to minimize the space for air to travel between the tongue and the palate, whether by moving the back of the tongue toward the throat or by pushing the middle portion of the tongue toward the teeth, and in some cases enable the exhalation reed to oscillate, and in other cases more quickly reposition the air toward the end of the inhalation reed to make the inhalation reed more responsive (to set the inhalation reed to oscillating motion more quickly), and enable the exhalation reed, which is complementary to the inhalation reed, to oscillate; and / or

[0016] e. The harmonica includes at least one additional plate arranged opposite the face of the first plate, preferably arranged so that the face of the first plate opposite the additional plate is opposite to the face of the first plate opposite the first face of the comb, and the additional plate includes at least one or more additional material protrusions, each additional material protrusion arranged at least partially opposite a portion of the blow reed, and each additional material protrusion is preferably configured such that when the user blows air into the chamber of the blow reed, preferably when the user blows air into the blow reed by positioning his tongue. When air is blown into the room to cause the inhalation reed to oscillate, it is advantageously when the user's tongue is positioned such that the space for air to pass between the tongue and the palate is minimized, whether by moving the back of the tongue toward the throat or by pushing the middle portion of the tongue toward the teeth. This reduces the oscillation space of the inhalation reed and, in some cases, enables the inhalation reed to oscillate. In other cases, it repositions the air more quickly toward the end of the inhalation reed to make the inhalation reed more responsive (setting the inhalation reed to oscillating motion more quickly) and enables the inhalation reed, which is complementary to the inhalation reed, to oscillate.

[0017] This invention allows for better control of airflow in each room. In particular, the comb-like element according to the invention allows for the production of notes that would not normally be present on an instrument by directing air toward where it must leave the room more directly, and thus achieves this in a simpler way for the user.

[0018] Furthermore, the comb-like element according to the invention also allows for the production of non-original notes using a blow reed or a draw reed, which in turn depends on the position of the user's tongue.

[0019] In particular, the comb-like structure helps to guide air very well. The fact that the comb-like structure includes material protrusions allows for further compression of the airflow, forcing the air to pass only through the most efficient areas.

[0020] In particular, the add-on plate allows for the production of notes that would not normally be present on an instrument by directing air toward where it must leave the chamber more directly, and thus in a simpler way for the user.

[0021] In addition, the add-on plate allows for the use of either an inhalation or exhalation reed to produce non-original notes, which in turn depends on the position of the user's tongue.

[0022] In particular, the additional plate helps to guide the air very well. The fact that the additional plate includes additional material protrusions and projections allows for further compression of the airflow, forcing it to pass only through the most efficient areas.

[0023] This invention also allows for better management of the harmonica's seal, particularly the seal of the harmonica's chamber.

[0024] This invention also allows for better management of indoor airflow, significantly improving the ease of playing musical instruments.

[0025] This invention allows for improved sealing of the harmonica chamber, partly due to the cleverly designed comb that addresses a common problem with diatonic harmonicas: thus structurally eliminating air leakage between the comb and the plate.

[0026] The present invention also allows for improvements in the responsiveness of the reed, particularly for playing the most difficult notes to trigger.

[0027] This invention makes it easier to obtain all the notes on a musical instrument, including notes that are usually difficult to achieve.

[0028] This invention allows for the homogenization of all obtained notes. Specifically, it allows the inhalation reed to vibrate primarily in the low and middle registers when the user exhales. Similarly, it allows the exhalation reed to vibrate primarily in the high registers when the user inhales.

[0029] This invention allows for easy triggering of 36 existing notes across more than three octaves, as well as some additional notes above even the highest note.

[0030] This invention allows for high responsiveness of the harmonica, regardless of the notes being played.

[0031] This invention provides the harmonica with a very smooth and easy playing experience, thereby allowing the implementation and linking of 36 notes to form musical phrases across all keys.

[0032] This invention allows for easy playing on all 12 keys of a diatonic harmonica, which is also intended to be played on a single key.

[0033] This invention allows all musical pieces to be played easily using a single diatonic harmonica, where the harmonica player typically uses one harmonica for each key of the piece.

[0034] This invention allows for the reduction and potential suppression of spin effects, primarily due to the use of protrusions.

[0035] This invention allows laminar flow pressure to be achieved in a chamber to trigger opposing reeds. Surprisingly, this invention allows for faster achievement of laminar flow velocities and more reliable maintenance of laminar flow velocities.

[0036] Advantageously, each material protrusion of the comb is used to trigger the intake spring when the user blows air to trigger the intake spring, thereby preventing leakage at the base of the intake spring and along a portion of the intake spring, thus allowing air to be compressed and thus helping to trigger the intake spring.

[0037] Advantageously, each material protrusion of the comb is used to trigger the blow spring when the user inhales to trigger the blow spring, thereby preventing leakage at the base of the inhalation spring and along a portion of the inhalation spring, thus allowing air to be compressed and thus helping to redirect the air toward the blow spring.

[0038] Advantageously, each additional material protrusion of the addendum plate is used to trigger the blow spring when the user inhales to trigger the blow spring, thereby preventing leakage at the base of the blow spring and along a portion of the blow spring, thus allowing air to be compressed and thus helping to release the blow spring.

[0039] Advantageously, each additional material protrusion of the addendum plate is used to trigger the inhalation spring when the user blows air to trigger the inhalation spring, thereby preventing leakage at the base of the inhalation spring and along a portion of the inhalation spring, thus allowing air to be compressed and thus helping to redirect the air toward the inhalation spring.

[0040] Preferably, the harmonica according to the invention may include only one of a comb and an attachment plate. In fact, the comb alone allows for at least some of the problems mentioned above to be addressed, and this also applies to the attachment plate. Therefore, the harmonica according to the invention may include one of an attachment plate and a comb, or may include both a comb and an attachment plate.

[0041] Advantageously, the comb and the additional plate work together to address at least some of the problems mentioned above, even more effectively. Surprisingly, in fact, the comb and the additional plate are complementary in terms of airflow constraint within the chamber.

[0042] The present invention also relates to a comb for a harmonica, preferably a diatonic harmonica, the harmonica comprising: a first plate including a plurality of blow reeds; and a second plate including a plurality of draw reeds, the comb comprising a plurality of chambers, each of the plurality of chambers being associated with a complementary pair of reeds including a blow reed and a draw reed, each of the plurality of chambers including an opening configured to allow a user's breath to pass through, and each of the plurality of chambers serving to define an oscillation space for the blow reeds and an oscillation space for the draw reeds, the comb being characterized in that each of the plurality of chambers contains Includes at least one material protrusion, each material protrusion being arranged at least partially opposite a portion of the inhalation reed, and each material protrusion being preferably configured to, when the user inhales from the chamber of the inhalation reed, preferably when the user inhales from the chamber of the inhalation reed by positioning his tongue to cause the exhalation reed to oscillate, advantageously when the position of the user's tongue minimizes the space for air to travel between the tongue and the palate, whether by pulling the back of the tongue toward the throat or pushing the middle portion of the tongue toward the teeth, thereby reducing the oscillation space of the inhalation reed and allowing the exhalation reed, which is complementary to the inhalation reed, to oscillate.

[0043] This invention allows for improved sealing of the harmonica chamber, partly due to the cleverly designed comb, which addresses the unique problems of diatonic harmonicas, thereby structurally eliminating air leakage between the comb and the plate.

[0044] An addendum plate for a harmonica, preferably a diatonic harmonica, comprising: a first plate having a plurality of blow reeds; and a second plate having a plurality of draw reeds, each blow reed and draw reed forming a complementary pair, the addendum plate being disposed above the first plate, and characterized in that the addendum plate includes at least one plurality of additional material protrusions, each additional material protrusion being arranged at least partially opposite a portion of a blow reed, and each additional material protrusion being preferably used when: a user blows air into the chamber of the blow reed, preferably when the user positions it... When the user blows air into the chamber of the blowing reed to cause the inhalation reed to oscillate, it is advantageous when the position of the user's tongue minimizes the space for air to travel between the tongue and the palate, whether by pulling the back of the tongue toward the throat or pushing the middle part of the tongue toward the teeth. This reduces the oscillation space of the blowing reed and, in some cases, enables the inhalation reed to oscillate. In other cases, it repositions the air more quickly toward the end of the blowing reed to make the blowing reed more responsive (setting the blowing reed to oscillating motion more quickly) and enables the inhalation reed, which is complementary to the blowing reed, to oscillate.

[0045] This invention allows for improved sealing of the harmonica chamber, partly due to an additional plate cleverly designed to address the specific problems of diatonic harmonicas: thus structurally eliminating air leakage between the comb and the plate.

[0046] A kit for a harmonica, preferably a diatonic harmonica, comprising at least one comb according to the invention and at least one additional plate according to the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0047] The objectives, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of embodiments of the invention illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0048] Figure 1 An exploded view of a harmonica according to the prior art is shown.

[0049] Figure 2 An exploded view of a harmonica according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0050] Figure 3 A top view of a comb-like member according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0051] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 A side cross-sectional view of the comb-shaped component.

[0052] Figure 5 A top view of a comb-like member according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0053] Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 A bottom view of the comb-shaped component.

[0054] Figure 7 It shows Figure 6 A side cross-sectional view of the comb-shaped component.

[0055] Figure 8 A top view of a comb-like member according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0056] Figure 9 A perspective view of a comb-like member according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0057] Figure 10 A perspective view of the additional plate according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0058] Figure 11 A schematic side cross-sectional view of the harmonica according to an embodiment of the invention is shown when a user blows air and desires to vibrate the air reed.

[0059] Figure 12 A schematic side cross-sectional view of the harmonica according to an embodiment of the invention is shown when the user inhales and desires the inhalation reed to vibrate.

[0060] Figure 13 A schematic side cross-sectional view of the harmonica according to an embodiment of the invention is shown when a user blows air and desires to vibrate the inhalation reed.

[0061] Figure 14 A schematic side cross-sectional view of the harmonica according to an embodiment of the invention is shown when the user inhales and desires to vibrate the blow reed.

[0062] Figures 15 to 17 A schematic perspective view of various embodiments of the chamber of a harmonica according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0063] The accompanying drawings are given by way of example and are not intended to limit the invention. The drawings include schematic illustrations intended to facilitate understanding of the principles of the invention and are not necessarily drawn to scale for actual application. In particular, the dimensions do not represent actual dimensions. Detailed Implementation

[0064] Before we begin to examine in detail the embodiments of the present invention, optional features that may be used in combination or alternatively are set forth below.

[0065] According to one example, each of the plurality of chambers has: a bottom that is opposite to the opening and configured to block the user's breathing air; two lateral walls configured to separate one chamber from the other adjacent chambers; an upper portion of the chamber that is at least partially defined by at least a portion of a blow reed; and a lower portion of the chamber that is at least partially defined by at least a portion of an inhalation reed complementary to the blow reed.

[0066] This allows airflow to be directed into the room.

[0067] According to one example, at least a portion of the plurality of chambers has a rounded bottom, preferably a concave bottom.

[0068] This allows for improved responsiveness of the blow reed in high notes, and thus helps to trigger notes that would not otherwise be present in high notes, while preserving the responsiveness of the original notes.

[0069] According to one example, at least a portion of the plurality of chambers has a lateral extension dimension larger than that of at least another portion of the plurality of chambers.

[0070] The greater width makes it easier to trigger the blow reed by inhalation. Due to the distribution of notes, the greater width is more useful for higher notes; therefore, in fact, these larger chambers correspond to chambers 7 through 10.

[0071] According to one example, at least a portion of the plurality of chambers has a lateral extension dimension smaller than that of at least another portion of the plurality of chambers.

[0072] The narrower width allows the inhalation reed to be triggered when blowing air. Due to the distribution of notes, the narrower width is more useful for low notes; therefore, in fact, these narrower chambers correspond to chambers 1 through 6.

[0073] According to one example, at least a portion of the plurality of chambers includes a lateral wall having a lateral extension dimension larger than that of the lateral wall of at least another portion of the plurality of chambers.

[0074] This allows for rooms that are narrower than other rooms in terms of width.

[0075] According to one example, at least one side wall of a portion of the plurality of chambers includes an additional surface, preferably an inclined surface.

[0076] This allows for the thickening of the lateral walls.

[0077] This allows for the formation of guides that allow airflow to enter and exit the chamber through openings.

[0078] This maintains the opening width of a conventional chamber, while the width of the chamber itself is smaller.

[0079] This allows users to remain undisturbed by changes in the opening width even when the width of the room has been altered.

[0080] This keeps the surface that comes into contact with the user's mouth the same as in existing harmonicas, so the player will not get disoriented when moving from one chamber to another.

[0081] Therefore, this allows material to be added to the side walls of the chamber, making the chamber narrower.

[0082] The beveled shape allows material to be added directly behind the chamber opening, and the beveled shape extends from the bottom of the air spring toward the bottom of the chamber.

[0083] This also allows for a constant airflow throughout the instrument, that is, between all the chambers, because the width of each opening is constant.

[0084] According to one example, at least a portion of the plurality of chambers includes a lateral wall having a lateral extension dimension smaller than that of the lateral wall of at least another portion of the plurality of chambers.

[0085] This allows for rooms that are wider than other rooms.

[0086] According to one example, at least one lateral wall of a portion of the plurality of chambers includes a recess located between the bottom of the chamber and the opening of the chamber.

[0087] This allows for a reduction in the thickness of the lateral walls.

[0088] This allows for the formation of a cavity through which airflow enters and exits the chamber via an opening.

[0089] This allows for maintaining a standard chamber opening width while the chamber width is relatively large.

[0090] This allows users to remain unaffected by changes in the opening width even as the room width changes.

[0091] This allows the surface that comes into contact with the user's mouth to remain the same as in existing harmonicas, so that the player will not get lost when moving from one chamber to another.

[0092] Therefore, this allows material to be removed from the side walls of the chamber, making the chamber wider.

[0093] This also allows for a constant airflow throughout the instrument, that is, between all the chambers, because the width of each opening is constant.

[0094] According to one example, each material protrusion extends from the bottom of the chamber of the material protrusion toward the opening of the chamber of the material protrusion.

[0095] According to one example, each material protrusion includes a thickness extension dimension that decreases from the bottom of the chamber of the material protrusion toward the opening of the chamber of the material protrusion, preferably decreasing from the bottom of the chamber of the material protrusion toward the opening of the chamber of the material protrusion, thereby defining an inclined portion.

[0096] This allows the inhalation reed to be activated when the user blows air to trigger it.

[0097] This allows air that previously reached the bottom of the chamber to exit through the end of the blow reed to instead exit through the draw reed when the blow reed is blocked.

[0098] This allows the airflow to make a U-turn, thus guiding the airflow from the end of the blowing reed to the end of the inhaling reed.

[0099] This allows already compressed air to be redirected more quickly toward the end of the inhalation reed when the user blows air to trigger it.

[0100] According to one example, at least a portion of the material protrusion defines a platform portion together with the bottom of the chamber of the material protrusion, the platform portion extending along a plane perpendicular to the extension plane of the lateral wall of the chamber of the material protrusion.

[0101] According to one example, the lower portion of each of the plurality of chambers includes an air passage for the intake spring, and each material protrusion extends at least partially to at least partially block the air passage of the intake spring.

[0102] According to one example, each material protrusion has a longitudinal extension dimension, and the air passage of the intake spring has a longitudinal extension dimension, the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of each material protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the air passage of the intake spring being between 0.1 and 0.9, preferably between 0.2 and 0.5, and advantageously, the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of each material protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the air passage of the intake spring being equal to 0.33.

[0103] According to one example, the upper portion of each of the plurality of chambers includes an air passage for the blowing reed, and each additional material protrusion extends at least partially to at least partially block the air passage of the blowing reed.

[0104] According to one example, each additional material protrusion has a longitudinal extension dimension, and the air passage of the air spring has a longitudinal extension dimension, the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of each additional material protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the air passage of the air spring being between 0.1 and 0.9, preferably between 0.3 and 0.7, and advantageously, the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of each additional material protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the air passage of the air spring being equal to 0.5.

[0105] According to one example, each additional material protrusion has a lateral extension dimension and a longitudinal extension dimension, and each of the plurality of air springs includes a lateral extension dimension and a longitudinal extension dimension, and each additional material protrusion is associated with one of the plurality of air springs, and the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of the additional material protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the air spring of the additional material protrusion is included between 0.1 and 0.9, preferably between 0.3 and 0.7, and advantageously, the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of the additional material protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the air spring of the additional material protrusion is equal to 0.5.

[0106] According to one example, each of the plurality of chambers includes a lateral extension dimension and a longitudinal extension dimension, and each additional material protrusion has a lateral extension dimension equal to the lateral extension dimension of the chamber of the additional material protrusion, and a longitudinal extension dimension smaller than the longitudinal extension dimension of the chamber of the additional material protrusion.

[0107] According to one example, the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of the additional material protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the chamber of the additional material protrusion is included between 0.1 and 0.9, preferably between 0.3 and 0.7, and advantageously, the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of the additional material protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the chamber of the additional material protrusion is 0.5.

[0108] According to one example, each additional material protrusion has an inner face and an outer face, the inner face facing the interior of the chamber of the additional material protrusion and the outer face facing the exterior of the chamber of the additional material protrusion, and each additional material protrusion includes at least one projection disposed on the inner surface of the additional material protrusion.

[0109] According to one example, each protrusion extends from the entrance of each chamber toward the bottom of each chamber according to the longitudinal extension dimension.

[0110] According to one example, the protrusion extends at least partially into the air passage of the blow spring.

[0111] According to one example, each of the plurality of air springs includes a lateral extension dimension and a longitudinal extension dimension, and each protrusion is associated with one of the plurality of air springs, and the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of the protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the air spring of the protrusion is between 0.01 and 0.9, preferably between 0.1 and 0.7, and advantageously, the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of the protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the air spring of the protrusion is equal to 0.2.

[0112] According to one example, each material protrusion has a lateral extension dimension and a longitudinal extension dimension, and each of the plurality of suction springs includes a lateral extension dimension and a longitudinal extension dimension, and each material protrusion is associated with one of the plurality of suction springs, and the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of the material protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the suction spring of the material protrusion is included between 0.1 and 0.9, preferably, the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of the material protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the suction spring of the material protrusion is between 0.2 and 0.5, and advantageously, the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of the material protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the suction spring of the material protrusion is equal to 0.33.

[0113] According to one example, each of the plurality of chambers includes a lateral extension dimension and a longitudinal extension dimension, and each material protrusion has a lateral extension dimension equal to the lateral extension dimension of the chamber of the material protrusion and a longitudinal extension dimension smaller than the longitudinal extension dimension of the chamber of the material protrusion.

[0114] According to one example, the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of the material protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the chamber of the material protrusion is included between 0.1 and 0.9, preferably between 0.2 and 0.5, and advantageously, the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of the material protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the chamber of the material protrusion is equal to 0.33.

[0115] According to one example, each material protrusion has an inner surface and an outer surface, the inner surface facing the interior of the chamber of the material protrusion and the outer surface facing the exterior of the chamber of the material protrusion, and the material protrusion includes at least one projection disposed on the outer surface of the material protrusion.

[0116] This allows for improved sealing of the chamber.

[0117] This allows for the reduction of spin effects primarily through the use of protrusions and may suppress spin effects.

[0118] This allows for improved constraint on airflow within the room.

[0119] According to one example, the protrusion has a longitudinal extension dimension that is proportional to the longitudinal extension dimension of the material protrusion including the protrusion discussed.

[0120] According to one example, the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of the protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the chamber of the protrusion is between 0.01 and 0.9, preferably between 0.1 and 0.5, and advantageously, the ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of the protrusion and the longitudinal extension dimension of the chamber of the protrusion is equal to 0.19.

[0121] According to one example, the protrusion extends at least partially into the air passage of the intake spring.

[0122] According to one example, each protrusion extends from the bottom of each chamber toward the entrance of each chamber according to its longitudinal extension dimension.

[0123] According to one example, the comb has greater flexibility than the first plate and the second plate.

[0124] This allows for improved chamber sealing and thus improved airflow constraint.

[0125] This allows the comb-like element to deform locally, thus acting as a localized seal. Advantageously, the comb-like element is more flexible than the first and / or second plates. Therefore, this allows the comb-like element to improve the seal between the comb-like element and the first and / or second plates.

[0126] In fact, a common problem with existing diatonic harmonicas is the lack of a seal, particularly the air leakage between the comb and the board. However, any air loss makes it difficult to actuate the opposite reed. Generally, existing technologies attempt to improve this seal by making efforts in the manufacturing process to make the board and comb as flat as possible, for example by manually sandblasting the board and comb, and by using increasingly dense materials.

[0127] Therefore, the present invention preferably uses a comb-like element that is more flexible than the first plate and the second plate, rather than a comb-like element that is very flat and very dense.

[0128] Surprisingly, by deciding to direct the development of this invention in a direction contrary to the teachings of the prior art, the sealing performance was improved. In fact, the invention preferably uses a flexible comb with slits, such that the comb is compressed and the material is dispersed along one or more plates, thus blocking micropockets of air.

[0129] This improved sealing, achieved cleverly through a comb-like component that is more deformable than the first and second plates, works in conjunction with material protrusions to further enhance the chamber's sealing.

[0130] Advantageously, depending on the thickness of the comb, the comb has a greater flexibility index in the upper and lower portions of the comb compared to the central portion.

[0131] By preferentially using this so-called flexible comb, the present invention allows for a plate that is not perfectly flat, and a comb that is not perfectly flat, thereby forming an attachment at the joint between the plate and the comb through slight compression of the comb. In fact, slightly tightening the screws is sufficient, and the material forming the comb deforms, compresses, and extends along the plate, which further enhances the seal.

[0132] The comb has a small degree of flexibility in its central part, that is, in the core of the comb, so that the comb will not be completely deformed and the integrity of the chamber is maintained.

[0133] In existing techniques using rigid combs, the screws are tightened as much as possible to prevent air from passing between the comb and each plate in the plate. Over time, the plates deform at the screws, which paradoxically creates new cavitation, and the instrument gradually loses its seal. The present invention cleverly and preferably uses a flexible comb, i.e., a flexible one, thus allowing for minimal tightening of the screws. Positioning the screws sufficiently to ensure the elements remain between them is adequate. As previously mentioned, the softness of the comb's edges is responsible for sealing the chamber.

[0134] According to one example, each material protrusion includes an end that is located away from the opening and bottom of the chamber containing the material protrusion.

[0135] According to one example, the end of each material protrusion is arranged in the chamber of the material protrusion so that airflow can pass through the intake spring corresponding to the chamber of the material protrusion.

[0136] This invention relates to an improved comb for a harmonica, an add-on plate for a harmonica, and finally, a harmonica that integrates these two innovative elements into one. Each of these elements is innovative, and each of these innovations is based on the same inventive principle: better control of airflow within the harmonica chamber, and preferably, better control of airflow around the periphery of the harmonica chamber, thereby enabling the user to more easily obtain and better control some notes that would otherwise be difficult to achieve.

[0137] Advantageously, this innovative comb-like component and this innovative additional plate can also work together, which further enhances the responsiveness of the instrument, with the effect of each innovative component being amplified by the effects of the other innovative components.

[0138] Therefore, according to one embodiment, the harmonica is preferably a diatonic harmonica. According to the preferred embodiment and in... Figure 1 The harmonica 100 shown includes at least:

[0139] a. The cleverly designed comb-like component 130;

[0140] b. A first plate 110, which includes a plurality of blow springs 111;

[0141] c. Second plate 120, which includes a plurality of suction springs 121;

[0142] d. Cleverly designed additional board 150;

[0143] e. Preferably, a cover 160 is arranged on both sides of the aforementioned element.

[0144] exist Figure 2 For clarity, only the location of the additional plate 150 is mentioned. This additional plate 150 is based on... Figure 10 One of the embodiments is illustrated and will be described in detail later.

[0145] Advantageously, the first plate 110 is arranged above the comb-like member 130. The second plate 120 is arranged below the comb-like member 130. In addition, the auxiliary plate 150 is arranged above the first plate 110. In this configuration, the covers 160 are arranged such that one cover is located below the second plate 120 and the other cover is located above the auxiliary plate 150.

[0146] If passed Figures 11 to 14 As shown, the first plate 110 therefore includes a plurality of air-blowing springs 111. The first plate 110 is thus arranged above the comb 130. Each air-blowing spring 111 is thus configured to oscillate within its own oscillation space 112 when a user blows air into the chamber 131, which is defined by the chamber 131. The air-blowing spring 111 extends from the opening 135 of the chamber 131 toward the bottom 136 of the chamber 131. Thus, the end of the air-blowing spring 111 fixed to the first plate 110 is located at the opening 135 of the chamber 131, preferably above the opening 135, and the oscillating end of the air-blowing spring 111 is positioned toward the bottom 136 of the chamber 131. When the air-blowing spring 111 oscillates, its free end moves back and forth. Typically, the longitudinal extension dimension of each blow spring 111 is preferably proportional to the longitudinal extension dimension 132 of the corresponding chamber 131.

[0147] Similarly, the second plate 120 includes a plurality of suction springs 121. The second plate 120 is arranged below the comb 130. Each of the plurality of suction springs 121 is configured to oscillate in its own oscillation space 122 when the user inhales from the chamber 131, which defines the oscillation space 122. The suction spring 121 extends from the bottom 136 of the chamber 131 along the direction of the opening 135 of the chamber 131 involved. Thus, the end of the suction spring 121 fixed to the second plate 120 is located at the bottom 136 of the chamber 131, preferably below the bottom 136 of the chamber 131, and the oscillating end of the suction spring 121 is positioned toward the opening 135 of the chamber 131. When the suction spring 121 oscillates, the free end of the suction spring moves back and forth. Typically, the longitudinal extension dimension of each intake spring 121 is preferably proportional to the longitudinal extension dimension 132 of the corresponding chamber 131.

[0148] Therefore, it should be noted that the intake spring 121 is installed head-to-tail relative to the blow spring 111, and the intake spring 121 and the blow spring 111 are installed on both sides of the comb 130, preferably on both sides of the plurality of chambers 131.

[0149] According to the preferred embodiment and as Figure 3 As shown, the comb 130 includes the plurality of chambers 131. Each chamber 131 includes an opening 135 configured to allow an inflow or outflow of airflow 170, depending on whether the user is blowing or inhaling. Each chamber 131 defines oscillation spaces of 112 and 122, respectively, for the blowing reed 111 and the inhalation reed 121. Advantageously, the blowing reed 111 and the inhalation reed 121 of each chamber 131 define a pair of complementary reeds.

[0150] According to advantageous and preferred embodiments and, for example, Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, at least one of the plurality of chambers 131 includes at least one material protrusion 140. Advantageously, each of the plurality of chambers 131 includes a material protrusion 140.

[0151] The material protrusion 140 is configured to reduce the oscillation space 122 of the inhalation reed 121. Preferably, the material protrusion 140 is configured to allow the blowing reed 111 to oscillate when the user inhales air from the chamber 131. Preferably, the material protrusion 140 is configured to allow the blowing reed 111 to oscillate when the user draws air from the chamber 131 by positioning his tongue at a specific angle relative to the direction of the airflow 170. Preferably, the material protrusion 140 is configured to reduce the oscillation space 122 of the inhalation reed 121 and allow the blowing reed 111, which is a spring complementary to the inhalation reed 121, to oscillate when the user inhales air from the chamber of the inhalation reed 121.

[0152] The invention is preferably designed such that this phenomenon occurs when the user positions his tongue to cause the blowing reed 111 to vibrate, i.e., the user's tongue is positioned such that the space for air to pass between the tongue and the palate is minimized, whether by moving the back of the tongue toward the throat or by moving the middle portion of the tongue toward the teeth. In this particular configuration, and as described later, while the user is still in the process of inhaling air into the entire chamber 131, the inhalation reed 121 will not vibrate like the blowing reed 111. In fact, surprisingly, the inhalation reed 121 will be inhibited in terms of vibration by the set of pressures established in the chamber 131 in question. It should be noted that, preferably, the inhalation reed 121 does not contact the material protrusion 140, and the pressure effect allows for the inhibition of vibration of the material protrusion.

[0153] Cleverly, the present invention advantageously utilizes a set of pressures established in chamber 131, thereby allowing the vibration of the reed to be stopped while enabling the complementary reed to vibrate.

[0154] According to one embodiment, the set of pressures is based on the negative pressure formed at the intake spring 121 and in the chamber 131 when the user inhales in a configuration designed to vibrate the blow spring 111. In this configuration, inhalation creates a negative pressure in the chamber 131, thus creating overpressure outside the chamber 131 and at the lower horizontal portion 138 and upper horizontal portion 139 of the chamber 131. Specifically, the overpressure at the intake spring 121 blocks the intake spring, while the overpressure at the blow spring 111 causes the blow spring to vibrate. In effect, in this configuration, the resistance encountered by the air 170 in the chamber 131 through the blow spring 111 is less than the resistance encountered through the intake spring 121. Thereafter, inhalation allows the blow spring 111 to vibrate.

[0155] This situation is, for example, in Figure 14 As shown in [the image]. Figure 14In this configuration, when a user inhales from chamber 131, the airflow circulates through the blowing reed 111, causing it to vibrate, while simultaneously blocking the inhalation reed 121 with the set of pressure. Conversely, during normal inhalation... Figure 12 As shown, when the user does not position his tongue in a particular way, the user inhales air from chamber 131 and thus causes the intake reed 121 to vibrate.

[0156] Advantageously, the pressure established in chamber 131 allows the inhaled air to circulate unselectively, but only via the blow reed 121, thus causing the blow reed 121 to vibrate. In this configuration, the user can achieve notes that musical instruments cannot provide by inhaling from chamber 131 and thus causing the blow reed 111 to vibrate, and this is easier than with a "classic" harmonica, thanks to the invention.

[0157] In a particularly advantageous manner, each material protrusion 140 allows the blow spring 121 to vibrate when the user inhales in chamber 131, while reducing and minimizing air leakage in the lower portion of the chamber; in effect, the material protrusion 140 allows the air in chamber 131 to be compressed, and thus prevents the inhalation spring 121 from vibrating, while allowing the blow spring 111 to vibrate.

[0158] Cleverly, each material protrusion 140 allows the blow spring to vibrate as the user inhales into chamber 131 through the advantageous geometry of the material protrusion.

[0159] According to one embodiment and as Figure 4 As shown, the material protrusion 140 includes a variable thickness portion according to the longitudinal extension dimension 141 of the material protrusion 140; thus, the thickness portion defines an inclined portion; compared to the case without the inclined portion, the inclined portion allows air 170 to be redirected to the end of the suction spring 121 more quickly. Therefore, this allows for the promotion of oscillation of the suction spring 121 when the user blows air into the chamber 131.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the inclined portion can have various shapes, such as a straight shape, a concave shape, or a possible convex shape. Preferably, as shown below... Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the inclined portion has a convex shape.

[0161] According to one embodiment, the material protrusion 140 forms a right angle with respect to the bottom 136 of the chamber 131. Preferably, the upper surface of the material protrusion 140 extends in a plane orthogonal to the extending plane of the side wall 137 of the chamber 131. Figure 17In the embodiment shown, at least a portion of the upper surface of the material protrusion 140 extends in a plane orthogonal to the extending plane of the lateral wall 137 of the chamber 131, and thus defines the platform portion 148.

[0162] According to one embodiment, when the user inhales, each material protrusion 140 allows for a reduction in the space at the base of the inhalation spring 121 for the passage of air 170, thereby triggering, even if, the blow-out spring 111 vibrates; this makes it easier to block the inhalation spring 121 and easier to make the blow-out spring 111 vibrate.

[0163] Preferably, and as Figures 3 to 9 As shown, each chamber 131 includes a bottom 136 opposite to the opening 135. The bottom 136 is configured to block the user's airflow and define a restriction in one of the restricted portions of the chamber 131. Each chamber 131 also includes two lateral walls 137 configured to separate one chamber 131 from the other adjacent chambers 131. The upper portion 139 of each chamber 131 is defined by an airflow spring 111, and the lower portion 138 of each chamber 131 is at least partially defined by a material protrusion 140 and at least a portion of an inhalation spring 121 complementary to the airflow spring 111.

[0164] Cleverly, and according to one embodiment, some chambers 131 have a rounded bottom 136. The rounded bottom 136 is concave. Figure 3 and Figure 9 This bottom 136 is shown.

[0165] According to one embodiment, chamber 131 associated with the treble note, and chambers advantageously associated with holes 7 to 10 of the harmonica 100, have the following characteristics: Figure 9 The concave bottom 136 shown in the diagram allows air 170 to pass through the end of the blow reed 111 when the user inhales with his tongue in the previously described configuration, thus facilitating the vibration of the blow reed 111. This allows notes from the blow reed 111 and notes from the inhalation reed 121 to be played quickly, easily, and smoothly through inhalation. This increases the ease of playing both difficult and easy notes. This allows for a reduction in any delay between the ease of playing these two notes. The concave shape of the bottom 136 of chamber 131 allows for a favorable direction to be given to the air 170.

[0166] It should be noted that the bottom 136 of chamber 131 can also be flat or square. In particular, Figure 5 and Figure 8 and Figure 9The flat bottom 136 of chamber 131 is shown. According to one embodiment, the bottom 136 may be flat. According to one embodiment, the bottom 136 and the comb-like member 130 define a straight edge.

[0167] It should be pointed out that, for example, according to the Figure 9 In the embodiment shown, only some chambers 131 have a rounded bottom 136, for example, Figure 17 As shown, the other chambers 131 have a flat bottom 136. Similarly, in Figure 9 It can be noted that only the chamber 131 with a rounded bottom 136 has the features described above and, for example, as shown in the example. Figure 17 The platform section 148 shown. Preferably, and as... Figure 17 As shown, the bottom 136 may have a rounded portion and a platform portion 148. According to one embodiment, the bottom 136 and the comb-like portion 130 define a curved edge.

[0168] Additionally, advantageously, these identical chambers 131 have side walls 137 with a reduced thickness extension dimension 137a, thus these identical chambers 131 have recesses 147 at the openings 135 of these chambers 131, for example as... Figure 17 As shown. Conversely, other chambers 131 have side walls 137, the thickness extension dimension 137a of which is increased by additional ramps 146, for example as... Figure 16 As shown in the image.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the present invention proposes a bottom 136 of a chamber 131 that is geometrically configured to promote negative pressure at the free end of the blow spring 111 during inhalation, thereby allowing the blow spring 111 to vibrate more easily while the vibration of the inhalation spring 121 is prevented by a set of pressures.

[0170] According to one implementation, and as Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 9 and Figure 17 As shown, it should be noted that the bottom 136 of the chamber 131 may have a platform portion 148, that is, a stepped portion between the bottom 136 of the chamber 131 and the material protrusion 140.

[0171] One way to explain this geometric modification of the bottom 136 of chamber 131 is to consider that, unlike the material protrusion 140, the bottom 136 of chamber 131 includes a material setback. This setback thus forms the platform portion 148 and the bottom 136 of chamber 131, preferably a concave bottom. This setback facilitates the passage of air 170 at the end of the blow spring 111 when the user inhales with his tongue in the correct configuration, and thus promotes the vibration of the blow spring 111.

[0172] It should be noted that, due to the note distribution on the instrument, it is particularly advantageous in the high register to promote the activation of the blow reed 111 when the user inhales. However, these notes require the most skill from the user. The reeds in the high register are very small and not very easy to manage. On existing harmonicas, the user manually moves the inhalation reed 121 close to the second plate 120 to help block the inhalation reed 121 and activate the blow reed 111 when he inhales. However, in this case, the natural notes, i.e., the vibration of the inhalation reed 121 obtained when the user inhales, are more difficult to play, and the continuity between the notes obtained with the blow reed 111 and the notes obtained with the inhalation reed 121, especially when the user inhales, is very difficult. Furthermore, a delay occurs when returning to the natural notes.

[0173] According to one embodiment, the invention advantageously allows for more space at the end of the air-blowing spring 111, making it easier for air to escape through the freely oscillating end of the air-blowing spring.

[0174] According to a preferred embodiment, the harmonica 100 may include chambers 131 of various geometries, such as those discussed previously. Therefore, the same harmonica 100 may combine chambers with different geometries from each other. According to an advantageous embodiment, the same harmonica 100 may include:

[0175] a. According to Figure 15 The chamber 131 of the embodiment is preferably used for chambers 131 that are generally numbered 1, 2 and 3.

[0176] b. According to Figure 16 The chamber 131 of the embodiment is preferably used for chambers 131 that are generally numbered 4, 5 and 6.

[0177] c. According to Figure 17 The chamber 131 of the embodiment is preferably used for chambers 131 that are usually numbered 7, 8, 9 and 10.

[0178] According to one implementation method, such as Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, some chambers 131 have a smaller lateral extension dimension 133 than other chambers 131, or some chambers 131 have a larger lateral extension dimension 133 than other chambers 131.

[0179] Advantageously, the chamber 131 corresponding to the low notes, i.e., holes 1 to 6, has a smaller lateral extension dimension 133 than the other chambers 131. This allows for the formation of overpressure in the chamber 131 necessary for the blocking or vibration of the control reed. Surprisingly, the narrower the chamber 131, the easier it is for the inhalation reed 121 to vibrate when the user blows air to cause it to do so. Surprisingly, the airflow is more compact and compressed to a greater extent, which makes it easier and faster to block the blowing reed 111 and makes the inhalation reed 121 react more easily and quickly. Therefore, the present invention allows for the promotion of vibration of the inhalation reed 121 when the user blows air. In particular, according to one embodiment, these chambers 131 with reduced lateral extension dimension 133 have thicker side walls 137. Preferably, these walls 137 include beveled portions 146 on their surfaces facing the interior of the chamber 131 in question, such as... Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown in the diagram. The beveled shape 146 simultaneously allows airflow 170 in chamber 131 to flow along the direction of the upper portion 139 of chamber 131. Preferably, the beveled shape 146 allows airflow 170 in chamber 131 to flow along the direction of the upper portion 139 of chamber 131 in the same manner as the inclined portion formed by the material protrusion 140. These beveled portions 146 extend from the proximal portion of the opening 135 toward the bottom 136 of chamber 131.

[0180] Advantageously, the chamber 131 corresponding to the treble note, i.e., holes 7 to 10, has a larger lateral extension dimension 133 than the other chambers 131. This allows for the vibration of the blowing reed 111 during inhalation due to use, thereby generating negative pressure in the chamber 131.

[0181] Surprisingly, the wider chamber 131 is, the easier it is to obtain high notes by vibrating the blow reed 111 when the user inhales. Therefore, the invention is implemented by advantageously selecting the width 133 of chamber 131—the width depending on the difficulty of achieving the note in question—while ensuring that it does not interfere with the achievement of other notes in the same chamber 131.

[0182] Therefore, in a clever and surprising way, and as Figure 9 As shown, for example, chamber 7 is much wider than the other chambers because chamber 7 is the most difficult chamber to trigger when inhaling, also known as the vibration of the blowing reed. This is the only chamber that would be affected without the present invention.

[0183] Preferably, the widths of chambers 8, 9, and 10 are smaller than the width of chamber 7. This is to maximize the space of chamber 7, and also because increasing the width of chamber 131 is equivalent to reducing the thickness of wall 137, which makes the tone of the notes sharper. This invention is advantageous because these notes are already very high notes from chamber 8.

[0184] In particular, according to Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the embodiment shown, these chambers 131, with their increased width, have thinner side walls. These walls include flanges 147, also referred to as recesses, at the openings 135 of the chambers 131 in question. This allows the surface in contact with the user's mouth to remain the same as the surface he is accustomed to, so as not to disturb the user's habits.

[0185] For example Figure 4 and Figure 7 As described herein, and according to a preferred embodiment, each material protrusion 140 extends from the bottom 136 of the chamber 131 of the material protrusion toward the entrance of the chamber 135 of the material protrusion.

[0186] Each material protrusion 140 has a thickness extension dimension, a width extension dimension 142, and a length extension dimension 141. Preferably, the lateral extension dimension 142 of each material protrusion is equal to the lateral extension dimension 133 of the chamber 131 involved. It should be noted that the thickness extension dimension of the material protrusion 140 is less than or equal to the thickness extension dimension 134 of the chamber 131, that is, the thickness extension dimension 134 of the comb-like portion 130.

[0187] According to one embodiment, the thickness extension dimension of some, preferably all, of the material protrusions 140 decreases from the bottom 136 of the chamber 131 of the material protrusion to the inlet 135 of the chamber 131 of the material protrusion. Thus, this defines... Figure 4 and Figure 7 The inclined portion shown.

[0188] According to this embodiment, the proximal portion of the material protrusion 140 relative to the bottom 136 of the chamber 131 has a larger thickness extension dimension than the distal portion of the material protrusion 140 relative to the bottom 136 of the chamber 131, for example... Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17As shown in the diagram. According to an advantageous embodiment, the distal portion of the material protrusion, also referred to as the end 140c of the material protrusion, is arranged between the bottom 136 of the chamber 131 and the opening 135 of the chamber 131. Advantageously, the end 140c of the material protrusion is located away from the opening 135 and the bottom 136 of the chamber 131. Preferably, the end 140c of the material protrusion 140 is arranged within the chamber 131 so that airflow can pass through the corresponding suction spring 121. According to another embodiment, the thickness extension dimension of each material protrusion 140 is constant over the entire longitudinal extension dimension 141 of the material protrusion.

[0189] Advantageously, each material protrusion 140 has a longitudinal extension dimension 141 extending from the bottom 136 of the chamber 131 toward the opening 135 of the chamber 131. Advantageously, this longitudinal extension dimension 141 is proportional to the longitudinal extension dimension 132 of the chamber 131.

[0190] According to one embodiment, the longitudinal extension dimension 141 of the material protrusion 140 is proportional to the longitudinal extension dimension of the suction spring 121 associated with the material protrusion 140.

[0191] like Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figures 11 to 14 As shown, each chamber 131 has an air passage 138a for the intake reed 121 of that chamber and an air passage 139a for the exhaust reed 111 of that chamber. The air passage 139a for the exhaust reed 111 includes an oscillation space 112 for the exhaust reed 111. The air passage 138a for the intake reed 121 includes an oscillation space 122 for the intake reed 121. Therefore, when the airflow 170 circulates in the harmonica 100, the airflow 170 can pass through the air passage 139a of the exhaust reed 111 and / or the air passage 138a of the intake reed 121 to cause the exhaust reed 111 and the intake reed 121 to vibrate.

[0192] Advantageously, the air passage 139a for the blowing spring 111 has a longitudinal extension dimension and a lateral extension dimension that are larger than the longitudinal extension dimension and the lateral extension dimension of the blowing spring 111 involved, respectively.

[0193] Advantageously, the air passage 138a for the intake spring 121 has a longitudinal extension dimension and a lateral extension dimension that are larger than the longitudinal extension dimension and the lateral extension dimension of the intake spring 121 involved, respectively.

[0194] Preferably, the material protrusion 140 includes a portion extending parallel to the air passage 138a for the intake spring 121, and advantageously, the material protrusion 140 at least partially blocks the air passage 138a for the intake spring 121 involved.

[0195] In a particularly ingenious way and as Figures 11 to 14 As shown, each material protrusion is configured to be positioned opposite to the suction spring 121 corresponding to the chamber 131 of the material protrusion, preferably positioned directly opposite to the suction spring 121 corresponding to the chamber 131 of the material protrusion. Preferably, the material protrusion 140 is configured to be directly opposite at least a portion of the suction spring 121, i.e., there is no solid material between the material protrusion 140 and the suction spring 121 involved. In this configuration, this allows the material protrusion 140 to reduce the oscillation space 122 of the suction spring 121 by a set of pressures generated within the chamber 131. Advantageously, this allows the material protrusion 140 to reduce the oscillation space 122 of the suction spring 121 when the user inhales from the chamber 131 of the suction spring 121, preferably when the user inhales from the chamber 131 of the suction spring 121 by positioning his tongue to cause the blowing spring 111 to oscillate.

[0196] In fact, as the principle described above is that, under certain circumstances, inhalation produces a note different from the note associated with the inhalation reed 121. Therefore, it is not the inhalation reed 121 that should vibrate, but rather the exhalation reed 111, which is the only possible alternative to air circulation. In fact, by positioning a person's tongue to minimize the space for air to pass between the tongue and palate, whether by moving the back of the tongue towards the throat or by pushing the middle portion of the tongue towards the teeth, the user can, with the aid of the invention, vibrate the exhalation reed 111 during inhalation. To help achieve this note, which is not present in the instrument, the invention restricts the oscillation of the inhalation reed 121 in this configuration, thus making it easier for the user to vibrate the exhalation reed 111 during inhalation. In fact, the inhaled air then passes through the exhalation reed 111, causing it to vibrate, because the inhalation reed 121 is blocked by the set of pressures generated in chamber 131 and described above. As previously described, the material protrusion 140 is advantageously positioned between a portion of the intake spring 121 and the interior of the chamber 131.

[0197] Therefore, it is the presence and configuration of these material protrusions 140 that at least in part enable the production of notes that are not available in musical instruments and are easily achievable, namely notes that are easily achievable by the present invention.

[0198] according to Figure 5 and Figure 6In the illustrated embodiment, each material protrusion has an inner surface 140a and an outer surface 140b. The inner surface 140a faces the interior of the chamber 131, and the outer surface 140b faces the exterior of the chamber 131 and is opposite, preferably directly opposite, the suction spring 121. Preferably, each outer surface 140b of some or all of the material protrusions 140 may include a protrusion 143. The size of the protrusion 143 is proportional to the extension dimension of the material protrusion 140 to which the protrusion 143 is disposed. Each of these protrusions 143 is configured to improve the sealing of the chamber 131 to which the material protrusion 140 corresponds. In particular, the longitudinal extension dimension 144 of the protrusion 143 is advantageously proportional to the longitudinal extension dimension 141 of the material protrusion 140 that supports the protrusion 143.

[0199] Specifically, on the lower surface 130b of the comb-shaped member 130... Figure 6 It can be noted that there is a protrusion 143 and the longitudinal extension dimension 144 of the protrusion varies according to the longitudinal extension dimension 132 of the chamber 131.

[0200] In particular, Figure 7 It can be noted that the protrusion 143 is positioned relative to the inclined portion formed by the material protrusion 140 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0201] In fact, although each protrusion is located outside chamber 131 and as Figures 11 to 14 As shown, however, each protrusion extends to the height of the base of the intake spring 111 corresponding to the chamber 131 involved.

[0202] like Figure 7 and Figures 11 to 14 As shown, the protrusion 143 of the material protrusion 140 extends at least partially into the air passage 138a for the intake spring 121 involved. This allows for improved sealing of the air passage 138a and even more effective blocking of the air passage 138a.

[0203] Each reed—whether it's the blowing reed 111 or the drawing reed 121—has a longitudinal body comprising a head and a base corresponding to a portion fixed to the corresponding support plate 110 or 120. The head corresponds to the oscillating end of the reed. The reed can be considered as a vibrating beam, with one end of the reed, referred to as the base, fixedly mounted on the plate, and the other end of the reed, referred to as the head, oscillating freely in the oscillation space.

[0204] These protrusions 143 are constructed and positioned opposite, preferably directly opposite, the base of the intake spring 121, to improve the confinement of the air 170 in the chamber 131 and thus reduce any leakage. Surprisingly, it can be noted that the quality and control of the circulation of the air 170 in the harmonica, particularly in the chamber 131, depends on the geometry of the chamber 131 and the quality of the insulation, thus making some paths more favorable for both blown and drawn air 170 than others.

[0205] When the user inhales to vibrate the blowing reed 111, these protrusions 143 allow for further restriction of the air 170 traveling through the base of the inhalation reed 121, and thus improve the restriction of the air 170, and thereby compress the airflow 170 more effectively.

[0206] When the user inhales to vibrate the blow spring 111, these protrusions 141 allow the vibration space 122 of the inhalation spring 121 to be reduced, and thus help to block the inhalation spring and trigger the blow spring 111.

[0207] In a particularly advantageous manner, these protrusions 141 also allow for the limitation of spin effects and may suppress them. Spin effects are oscillations that occur in a reed. For example, when a user inhales to trigger the blow reed 111, in the case of prior art harmonicas, the inhalation reed 121 often begins to twist, i.e., it vibrates not in its longitudinal extension but in its lateral extension, producing a higher note that is added to the note produced by the blow reed 111. This spin effect is caused by air 170 escaping through the side of the base of the inhalation reed 121.

[0208] It should also be noted that, according to one embodiment, the comb 130 may be flexible, i.e., it may comprise a material having a hardness coefficient based on an axis perpendicular to the upper surface of the comb, the hardness coefficient being included between 15A and 100A according to the Shore A scale.

[0209] When the various components of the harmonica 100 are joined, for example, by screws, this flexibility of the comb 130 allows for enhanced air confinement. The flexibility of the comb 130 allows for further improvement in air confinement within the chamber 131 by means of, for example, acting as a seal for localized deformation.

[0210] In fact, the use of the so-called flexible comb 130 allows the flexible comb 130 to deform locally to partially conform to at least a portion of the periphery of the reed.

[0211] Preferably, the comb-shaped member 130 has greater flexibility than the first plate 110 and the second plate 120.

[0212] Advantageously, the hardness coefficient of the comb 130 based on the axis perpendicular to the upper surface 130a of the comb is lower than the hardness coefficient of the first plate 110 and the second plate 120 based on the axis perpendicular to the main surface.

[0213] Ingeniously, the flexible properties of the comb 130 according to the invention limit or even prevent air leakage between the comb 130 and the first plate 110 and the second plate 120. These plates are not typically flat, and the flexibility of the comb 130 significantly contributes to the instrument's sealing, and thus helps to manage a more compact airflow 170 in the chamber 131.

[0214] According to one embodiment, the harmonica 100 also includes an auxiliary plate 150. Figure 10 An embodiment of the additional plate 150 is shown. The additional plate 150 is disposed above the first plate 110. The additional plate 150 includes a plurality of additional material protrusions 155 and preferably includes holes 153 for allowing air 170 to pass through and preferably for allowing the air-blowing spring 111 to oscillate. According to a preferred embodiment described later, the additional plate 150 also includes a plurality of protrusions 151.

[0215] Advantageously, each additional material protrusion 155 allows for minimization of the air traveling through the base and along the portion of the air spring 111 when the user inhales to trigger the air spring 111. Preferably, each additional material protrusion 155 helps to compress the air and direct it more directly toward the end of the air spring 111, making the air spring 111 easier to trigger.

[0216] Advantageously, each additional material protrusion 155 allows for minimization of the air traveling through the base and along a portion of the blowing spring 111 when the user blows air to trigger the inhalation spring 121. Preferably, each additional material protrusion 155 helps to compress the air and direct it more directly toward the end of the inhalation spring 121, making the inhalation spring 121 easier to trigger.

[0217] Depending on the desired effect, these additional material protrusions 155 can have a variable longitudinal extension dimension. This dimension is advantageously proportional to the longitudinal extension dimension of the involved air reed 111. Therefore, the obstruction formed opposite the base of the air reed 111 allows air to be compressed at that point. This is advantageous for setting the end of the air reed 111 to vibrate without hindering the length of the air reed 111 set to vibrate, thereby avoiding changes to the tone of the air reed.

[0218] Cleverly, depending on the desired effect, the orifice 153 also has a variable longitudinal extension dimension. This dimension is again advantageously proportional to the longitudinal extension dimension of the blow spring 111 involved herein.

[0219] Figure 10 The inner surface 154 of the auxiliary plate 150 is shown. This inner surface 154 is intended to face and preferably contact the upper surface of the first plate 110, such that the additional material protrusion 155 faces the blow spring 111.

[0220] In a particularly ingenious manner, the additional plate 150 allows air leakage to be limited at the base of the blow spring 111, and preferably allows air leakage to be limited over a portion of the longitudinal extension dimension of the blow spring 111.

[0221] Preferably, each additional material protrusion 155 includes a portion extending parallel to the air passage 139a of the blow spring 111, and advantageously, each additional material protrusion 155 at least partially blocks the air passage 139a of the blow spring 111 involved.

[0222] It should be pointed out that, especially in Figures 11 to 14 In this configuration, each additional material protrusion 155 includes an inner surface 155a and an outer surface 155b. The inner surface 155a of each additional material protrusion 155 is intended to oppose at least a portion of the air spring 111. Preferably, the inner surface 155a of each additional material protrusion 155 is supported by the inner surface 154 of the attachment plate 150. The outer surface 155b of each additional material protrusion 155 is intended to oppose at least a portion of the cover 160.

[0223] In a particularly advantageous manner, these additional material protrusions 155 act on the blowing spring 111 in a manner similar to that of the material protrusions 140 on the suction spring 121.

[0224] According to one implementation, such as... Figure 14 As shown, the distal portion of the additional material protrusion 155—also referred to as the end 155c of the additional material protrusion 155—is arranged between the opening 135 and the bottom 136 of the chamber 131. Advantageously, the end 155c of the additional material protrusion 155 is located away from the bottom 136 and away from the opening 135 of the chamber 131. Preferably, the end 155c of the additional material protrusion 155 is arranged in the chamber 131 so that airflow can pass through the corresponding blowing reed 111.

[0225] According to, for example Figure 10In the advantageous embodiment described herein, each additional material protrusion 155 may include at least one protrusion 151 on its inner surface 155a. Thus, according to this embodiment, the additional plate 150 includes a plurality of protrusions 151.

[0226] Preferably, each protrusion 151 is configured to be positioned opposite a portion of the blow spring 111. Thus, cleverly, and according to one embodiment, each protrusion 151 allows for minimizing the amount of air traveling through the base and along a portion of the blow spring 111 when the user inhales to trigger it. Preferably, each protrusion 151 facilitates compressing the air and directing it more directly toward the end of the blow spring 111, making it even easier to trigger.

[0227] Preferably, each protrusion 151 is configured to be positioned opposite a portion of the blow reed 111. Thus, cleverly, and according to one embodiment, each protrusion 151 allows for minimizing the amount of air traveling through the base and along a portion of the blow reed 111 when the user blows to trigger the inhalation reed 121. Preferably, each protrusion 151 facilitates air compression and more quickly redirects air toward the end of the inhalation reed 121, making the inhalation reed 121 even easier to trigger.

[0228] In a particularly advantageous manner, like the protrusions used for the intake reed, the protrusion 151 also allows for the limitation of spin effects and may suppress them. In fact, when a user blows air to trigger the intake reed 121, prior art harmonicas often experience the blow reed 111 beginning to twist, i.e., vibrating not in its longitudinal extension but in its lateral extension, which again results in higher notes, adding to the notes produced by the intake reed 121. This spin effect is also caused by the escape of air 170 through the side portion of the blow reed 111 very close to the base of the opening 135 of the chamber 131.

[0229] Advantageously, each protrusion 151 is configured to reduce the oscillation space 112 of the inhalation spring 121 when the user blows air into the chamber 131 of the inhalation spring 111 to cause the inhalation spring 121 to vibrate. This is even more preferred when the user positions his tongue to cause the inhalation spring 121 to vibrate, i.e., the user positions his tongue by moving the back of his tongue toward his throat or pushing the middle part of his tongue toward his teeth, thereby minimizing the space for air to pass between the tongue and the palate.

[0230] In a particularly advantageous manner, the protrusions 151 act on the blowing spring 111 in a manner similar to that of the protrusions 143 on the suction spring 121.

[0231] Furthermore, the additional material protrusions 155 and 151 function on the blowing spring 111 in a similar way to the function of the material protrusions 140 and 143 on the suction spring 121.

[0232] In practice, each protrusion 151 is configured to be positioned opposite to the air spring 111 corresponding to the chamber 131 of the protrusion, preferably positioned directly opposite to the air spring 111 corresponding to the chamber 131 of the protrusion. Preferably, each protrusion 151 is configured to be directly opposite at least a portion of the air spring 111, i.e., there is no solid material between the protrusion 151 and the air spring 111 involved.

[0233] In this configuration, the protrusion 151 is able to reduce the oscillation space 112 of the blowing reed 111 by generating a set of pressures inside the chamber 131. Advantageously, this allows the protrusion 151 to reduce the oscillation space 112 of the blowing reed 111 when the user blows air from the chamber 131 of the blowing reed 111, preferably when the user blows air from the chamber 131 of the blowing reed 111 by positioning his tongue to cause the inhalation reed 121 to oscillate.

[0234] Preferably, according to such Figure 10 The longitudinal extension dimension 152 shown is such that each protrusion 151 extends from the entrance 135 of each chamber 131 toward the bottom 136 of each chamber 131.

[0235] According to one embodiment, the longitudinal extension dimension 152 is proportional to the longitudinal extension dimension 132 of the chamber 131 involved, and therefore proportional to the longitudinal extension dimension of the blowing spring 111 involved.

[0236] According to another embodiment, the longitudinal extension dimension 152 depends on the desired effect, that is, on the phenomenon that people wish to promote.

[0237] In fact, according to one embodiment, the longitudinal extension dimension 152 of the protrusion 151 is configured to meet the user's needs. For example, the additional material protrusions 155 and / or the protrusion 151 of the chamber 7 can be lengthened or thickened to better facilitate the triggering of the blow reed 111 during inhalation.

[0238] like Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figures 11 to 14 As shown, each protrusion 151 extends at least partially into the air passage 139a for the blowing spring 111. This allows for increased sealing of the air passage 139a, and thus increases the sealing of the chamber 131.

[0239] As previously stated, the present invention advantageously utilizes a set of pressures established in chamber 131 and allows the vibration of the reed to be inhibited while enabling the complementary reed to vibrate.

[0240] This pressure is based on the overpressure created at the blow reed 111 and in the cavity 131 when the user blows air into a configuration designed to vibrate the inhalation reed 121. In this configuration, blowing air creates overpressure in the chamber 131. Specifically, according to one embodiment, the overpressure at the blow reed 111 blocks the blow reed 111, while the overpressure at the inhalation reed 121 causes the inhalation reed 121 to vibrate. In effect, in this configuration, the air 170 in the chamber 131 encounters less resistance through the inhalation reed 121 than through the blow reed 111. Subsequently, exhalation causes the inhalation reed 121 to vibrate.

[0241] Therefore, in a particularly advantageous manner, the auxiliary plate 150 allows air leakage at the base of the blowing spring 111 to be limited when the user blows air to trigger the inhalation spring 121, and thus compresses the airflow 170 in the chamber 131.

[0242] The additional plate 150 also allows for the restriction of spin effects and may suppress spin effects.

[0243] Preferably, the additional plate 150 allows for a reduction in the oscillation space 112 of the blowing spring 111 when the user blows air to trigger the inhalation spring 121, and thus helps to block the blowing spring 111 and trigger the inhalation spring 121.

[0244] This situation is, for example, in Figure 13 As shown in [the image]. Figure 13 In this configuration, when a user blows air from chamber 131, the airflow circulates through the suction spring 121, causing the suction spring 121 to vibrate, while simultaneously blocking the blowing spring 111 through the set of pressure. Conversely, in... Figure 11 The image shows the normal blowing situation, where the user blows air from chamber 131, causing the blowing reed 111 to vibrate, as is the case when he does not position his tongue in a particular way.

[0245] Therefore, the ingenious modifications to the comb 130 and the addition of the supplementary plate 150 make it easier for the user to achieve some notes that are usually difficult to achieve, notes that typically require many hours of practice, but can be obtained more directly in this case. These modifications and this addition also allow for better control over these notes during performance.

[0246] This invention facilitates the setting of the vibration of the "relative reed" during inhalation, i.e., the blowing reed, or the "relative reed" during blowing, i.e., the inhalation reed.

[0247] Figures 11 to 14The normal triggering scenario and the opposite triggering scenario are shown. Figure 11 This illustrates a scenario where a user blows air into a room, causing the air-blowing reed to vibrate. Figure 12 This illustrates the situation where a user draws air from the chamber, causing the intake reed to vibrate.

[0248] Figure 13 It shows the relationship with Figure 11 The opposite of the situation. Figure 13 The illustration shows a user blowing air into a room to vibrate the intake reed.

[0249] Figure 14 It shows the relationship with Figure 12 The opposite of the situation. Figure 14 This illustrates a scenario where a user draws air from the chamber to cause the blowing reed to vibrate.

[0250] Therefore, in the case of the opposite inhalation reed when the user blows air, less air escapes at the base of the blowing reed, and preferably along a portion of the longitudinal extension of the blowing reed, advantageously within 50% of that longitudinal extension. Consequently, the air in the chamber is compressed to a greater extent, which allows overpressure to be generated, which more quickly blocks the blowing reed and enables the airflow to move more rapidly toward the end of the inhalation reed, thus exiting the chamber upon triggering the inhalation reed.

[0251] Therefore, in the case of the opposite blowing reed when the user inhales, because air is less able to escape from the base of the blowing reed and this suddenly creates negative pressure in the chamber, the air is compressed more towards the vibrating end of the blowing reed. This negative pressure blocks the inhalation reed and allows the blowing reed to release.

[0252] This invention facilitates the operation of the harmonica and enables experienced players to manipulate notes not present on the instrument, thus allowing for simple, easy, and repeatable manipulation of these notes. In fact, repeatability is essential. In this regard, the invention reduces the number of parameters required to determine whether these specific notes are obtained.

[0253] Cleverly, the engagement of the additional plate with the first plate is similar to the engagement of the comb with the second plate according to the invention. The symmetrical application of the same inventive concept to the embodiments of the two elements of the harmonica allows for this ease of playing and this repeatability. In particular, this repeatability relates to improvements in the partitioning of the chamber, i.e., improvements in the control of air circulation within the chamber.

[0254] Therefore, the present invention makes it easier to obtain musical notes, for example, when purchasing musical instruments, and advantageously eliminates the need for a long and difficult learning process for the user.

[0255] In a particularly ingenious way, each element of the invention introduces something independently of the other elements, and the combined elements maximize the ease of playing the harmonica according to the invention. Cleverly, each element of the invention improves the airtightness of the chamber and makes the airflow more compact, thus resulting in a sharper pressure setting and therefore a more responsive reed.

[0256] It should be noted that, advantageously, the comb and the additional plate according to the invention have independent technical advantages, and the combined comb and additional plate maximize the ease of playing the harmonica according to the invention. Cleverly, the comb and the additional plate work synergistically to improve the airtightness of the chamber and make the airflow more compact, thus resulting in a sharper pressure setting and therefore a more responsive reed.

[0257] Therefore, the harmonica according to the invention may include one of a comb and an additional plate, or may include both a comb and an additional plate.

[0258] This invention is not limited to the foregoing embodiments but extends to all embodiments covered by the claims.

[0259] List of reference numerals

[0260] 10. Harmonicas of the prior art

[0261] 11. Comb-shaped components of the prior art

[0262] 100 harmonicas

[0263] 110 First board

[0264] 111 Air-blowing spring

[0265] 112 Oscillation space of the blow-off reed

[0266] 120 Second board

[0267] 121 Intake spring

[0268] 122 Oscillation space of the intake reed

[0269] 130 Comb-shaped component

[0270] 130a Upper surface of the comb-shaped component

[0271] 130b Lower surface of the comb-shaped component

[0272] Room 131

[0273] 132 Longitudinal extension dimension

[0274] 133 Lateral extension dimensions

[0275] 134 Height Extension Dimensions

[0276] 135 Opening

[0277] 136 Bottom

[0278] 137 Lateral wall

[0279] 137a Lateral extension dimension of the sidewall

[0280] 138 Lower Part

[0281] 138a Air passage for intake reed

[0282] 139 Upper Part

[0283] 139a Air passage for blown air spring

[0284] 140 Material protrusion

[0285] 140a Internal surface of material protrusion

[0286] 140b External surface of material protrusion

[0287] 140c material protrusion end

[0288] 141. Longitudinal extension dimension of the material protrusion

[0289] 142 Lateral extension dimension of the material protrusion

[0290] 143 Protrusion

[0291] 144. Longitudinal extension dimension of the protrusion

[0292] 145 Rounded corners

[0293] 146 Bevel part

[0294] 147 Depression

[0295] 148 Platform Department

[0296] 150 Additional Board

[0297] 151 Protrusion

[0298] 152. Longitudinal extension dimension of the protrusion

[0299] 153 holes

[0300] 154 Inner surface of the additional plate

[0301] 155 Additional material protrusions

[0302] 155a Internal surface of the additional material protrusion

[0303] 155b External surface of the additional material protrusion

[0304] 155c The end of the additional material protrusion

[0305] 160 Cover Part

[0306] 170 airflow.

Claims

1. A harmonica (100), said harmonica (100) comprising at least: a. A comb (130) comprising a plurality of chambers (131), each chamber (131) comprising an opening (135) configured to allow a user’s breathing air to pass through, each chamber (131) defining an oscillation space (122) for an inhalation reed (111) and an oscillation space (122) for an inhalation reed (121), the inhalation reed (121) and the inhalation reed (111) of each chamber (131) defining a pair of complementary reeds; b. A first plate (110) comprising a plurality of blow springs (111), the first plate (110) being arranged opposite a first face of the comb (130), each of the plurality of blow springs (111) being configured to oscillate in the oscillation space (112) of the blow spring (111) when a user blows air into the chamber (131) that defines the oscillation space (112); c. A second plate (120) comprising a plurality of suction springs (121), the second plate (120) being arranged opposite a second face of the comb (130), each of the plurality of suction springs (121) being configured to oscillate in the oscillation space (122) of the suction spring (121) when the user inhales at least from the chamber (131) defining the oscillation space (122); The harmonica (100) is characterized by including at least one of the following d and e: d. At least a portion of the plurality of chambers (131) includes at least one material protrusion (140), each material protrusion (140) being arranged between the portion of the suction spring (121) and the interior of the chamber (131) in such a manner that when a user inhales from the chamber (131) of the suction spring (121), the material protrusion (140) is able to reduce the oscillation space (122) of the suction spring (121) and cause the blowing spring (111), which is complementary to the suction spring (121), to oscillate by generating a set of pressures within the chamber (131); e. The harmonica (100) includes at least one additional plate (150) arranged opposite the face of the first plate (110), and the additional plate includes at least one plurality of additional material protrusions (155), each additional material protrusion (155) arranged at least partially opposite a portion of the blow reed (111), such that when a user blows into the chamber (131) of the blow reed (111), the additional material protrusions (155) can reduce the oscillation space (112) of the blow reed (111) and cause the inhalation reed (121), which is complementary to the blow reed (111), to oscillate by generating a set of pressures inside the chamber (131).

2. The harmonica (100) according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of chambers (131) has: a bottom (136) opposite to the opening (135) and configured to block the user's breathing; two side walls (137) configured to separate one chamber (131) from the other adjacent chambers (131); an upper portion (139) of the chamber (131) defined at least partially by at least a portion of a blow reed (111); and a lower portion (138) of the chamber (131) defined at least partially by at least a portion of an inhalation reed (121) complementary to the blow reed (111).

3. The harmonica (100) according to claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the plurality of chambers (131) has a rounded bottom (136).

4. The harmonica (100) according to claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the plurality of chambers (131) has a lateral extension dimension (133) larger than that of at least another portion of the plurality of chambers (131).

5. The harmonica (100) according to claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the plurality of chambers (131) has a lateral extension dimension (133) smaller than that of at least another portion of the plurality of chambers (131).

6. The harmonica (100) according to claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the plurality of chambers (131) includes a lateral wall (137) having a lateral extension dimension (137a) larger than that of the lateral extension dimension (137a) of the lateral wall (137) of at least another portion of the plurality of chambers (131).

7. The harmonica (100) according to claim 6, wherein, At least one side wall (137) of a portion of the plurality of chambers (131) includes an additional surface.

8. The harmonica (100) according to claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the plurality of chambers (131) includes a lateral wall (137) having a lateral extension dimension (137a) smaller than that of the lateral extension dimension (137a) of the lateral wall (137) of at least another portion of the plurality of chambers (131).

9. The harmonica (100) according to claim 8, wherein, Each of the plurality of chambers (131) has: a bottom (136) opposite to the opening (135) and the bottom (136) configured to block the user's breathing air, and wherein at least one side wall (137) of a portion of the plurality of chambers (131) includes a recess (147) located between the bottom (136) of the chamber (131) and the opening (135) of the chamber (131).

10. The harmonica (100) according to claim 2, wherein, Each material protrusion (140) extends from the bottom (136) of the chamber (131) of the material protrusion (140) toward the opening (135) of the chamber (131) of the material protrusion (140).

11. The harmonica (100) according to claim 10, wherein, Each material protrusion (140) includes a thickness extension dimension that decreases from the bottom (136) of the chamber (131) of the material protrusion (140) toward the opening (135) of the chamber (131) of the material protrusion (140).

12. The harmonica (100) according to claim 2, wherein, At least a portion of the material protrusion (140) defines a platform portion (148) with the bottom (136) of the chamber (131) of the material protrusion (140), the platform portion (148) extending according to a plane orthogonal to the extension plane of the side wall (137) of the chamber (131) of the material protrusion.

13. The harmonica (100) according to claim 2, wherein, The lower portion (138) of each of the plurality of chambers (131) includes an air passage (138a) for a suction spring (121), wherein each material protrusion (140) extends at least partially to at least partially block the air passage (138a) of the suction spring (121).

14. The harmonica (100) according to claim 2, wherein, The upper portion (139) of each of the plurality of chambers (131) includes an air passage (139a) for a blower reed (111), wherein each additional material protrusion (155) extends at least partially to at least partially block the air passage (139a) of the blower reed (111).

15. The harmonica (100) according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of chambers (131) includes a lateral extension dimension (133) and a longitudinal extension dimension (132), wherein each additional material protrusion (155) has: a lateral extension dimension equal to the lateral extension dimension of the chamber (131) of the additional material protrusion (155), and a longitudinal extension dimension smaller than the longitudinal extension dimension of the chamber (131) of the additional material protrusion (155).

16. The harmonica (100) according to claim 15, wherein, The ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension of the additional material protrusion (155) and the longitudinal extension dimension (132) of the chamber (131) of the additional material protrusion is between 0.1 and 0.

9.

17. The harmonica (100) according to claim 2, wherein, Each additional material protrusion (155) has an inner surface (155a) and an outer surface (155b), the inner surface (155a) facing the interior of the chamber (131) of the additional material protrusion (155) and the outer surface (155b) facing the exterior of the chamber (131) of the additional material protrusion (155), and wherein each additional material protrusion (155) includes at least one protrusion (151) disposed on the inner surface (155a) of the additional material protrusion (155).

18. The harmonica (100) according to claim 17, wherein, Each protrusion (151) extends from the entrance of each chamber toward the bottom (136) of each chamber (131) according to the longitudinal extension dimension (152).

19. The harmonica (100) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein, The upper portion (139) of each of the plurality of chambers (131) includes an air passage (139a) for a blower reed (111), wherein each additional material protrusion (155) extends at least partially to at least partially block the air passage (139a) of the blower reed (111), and wherein the protrusion (151) extends at least partially into the air passage (139a) of the blower reed (111).

20. The harmonica (100) according to claim 2, wherein, Each material protrusion (140) includes an end (140c) that is located away from the opening (135) of the chamber (131) of the material protrusion (140) and the bottom (136).

21. The harmonica (100) according to claim 20, wherein, The end (140c) of each material protrusion (140) is arranged in the chamber (131) of the material protrusion (140) so that airflow can pass through the suction spring (121) corresponding to the chamber (131) of the material protrusion (140).

22. The harmonica (100) according to claim 1, wherein, Each material protrusion (140) is configured to be opposite to the suction spring (121) corresponding to the chamber (131) of the material protrusion (140).

23. The harmonica (100) according to claim 2, wherein, Each additional material protrusion (155) includes an end (155c) that is located away from the bottom (136) of the chamber (131) of the additional material protrusion (155) and the opening (135).

24. The harmonica (100) according to claim 23, wherein, The end (155c) of each additional material protrusion (155) is arranged in the chamber (131) of the additional material protrusion (155) so that airflow can pass through the blowing spring (111) corresponding to the chamber (131) of the additional material protrusion (155).

25. The harmonica (100) according to claim 1, wherein, Each additional material protrusion (155) is configured to be opposite to the blow spring (111) corresponding to the chamber (131) of the additional material protrusion (155).

26. The harmonica (100) according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of chambers (131) includes a lateral extension dimension (133) and a longitudinal extension dimension (132), and wherein each material protrusion (140) has a lateral extension dimension (142) equal to the lateral extension dimension (133) of the chamber (131) of the material protrusion (140), and a longitudinal extension dimension (141) smaller than the longitudinal extension dimension (132) of the chamber (131) of the material protrusion (140).

27. The harmonica (100) according to claim 26, wherein, The ratio between the longitudinal extension dimension (141) of the material protrusion (140) and the longitudinal extension dimension (132) of the chamber (131) of the material protrusion (140) is between 0.1 and 0.

9.

28. The harmonica (100) according to claim 2, wherein, Each material protrusion (140) has an inner surface (140a) and an outer surface (140b), the inner surface (140a) facing the interior of the chamber (131) of the material protrusion (140) and the outer surface (140b) facing the exterior of the chamber (131) of the material protrusion (140), and wherein the material protrusion (140) includes at least one protrusion (143) disposed on the outer surface (140b) of the material protrusion (140).

29. The harmonica (100) according to claim 28, wherein, The protrusion (143) has a longitudinal extension dimension (144) that is proportional to the longitudinal extension dimension (141) of the material protrusion (140) including the protrusion (143).

30. The harmonica (100) according to claim 28 or 29, wherein, The lower portion (138) of each of the plurality of chambers (131) includes an air passage (138a) for a suction spring (121), wherein each material protrusion (140) extends at least partially to at least partially block the air passage (138a) of the suction spring (121), and wherein the protrusion (143) extends at least partially into the air passage (138a) of the suction spring (121).

31. The harmonica (100) according to claim 28 or 29, wherein, Each protrusion (143) extends from the bottom (136) of each chamber (131) toward the entrance of each chamber (131) according to the longitudinal extension dimension (144).

32. The harmonica (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The comb-shaped member (130) has greater flexibility than the first plate (110) and the second plate (120).

33. A comb (130) for a harmonica (100), the harmonica (100) comprising: A first plate (110) includes a plurality of blowing reeds (111); and a second plate (120) includes a plurality of inhalation reeds (121). The comb (130) includes a plurality of chambers (131), each of which is associated with a complementary pair of reeds including the blowing reeds (111) and the inhalation reeds (121). Each of the plurality of chambers (131) includes an opening (135) configured to allow the user's breathing air to pass through, and each of the plurality of chambers (131) is used for oscillation space (112) for the blowing reeds (111) and for the inhalation reeds (121). The comb (130) is characterized in that each of the plurality of chambers (131) includes at least one material protrusion (140), each material protrusion (140) being arranged between the portion of the suction spring (121) and the interior of the chamber (131) in such a manner that when a user inhales from the chamber (131) of the suction spring (121), the material protrusion (140) is able to reduce the oscillation space (122) of the suction spring (121) and cause the blowing spring (111), which is complementary to the suction spring (121), to oscillate by generating a set of pressures in the chamber.

34. An auxiliary plate (150) for a harmonica (100), the harmonica (100) comprising: A first plate (110) includes a plurality of blowing springs (111); and a second plate (120) includes a plurality of suction springs (121), each blowing spring (111) forming a complementary pair with a suction spring (121); an additional plate (150) is arranged above the first plate (110), and the additional plate (150) is characterized in that it includes at least one plurality of additional material protrusions. (155) Each additional material protrusion (155) is arranged to be at least partially opposite a portion of the blow spring (111) such that when a user blows air into the chamber (131) of the blow spring (111), the additional material protrusion (155) is able to reduce the oscillation space (112) of the blow spring (111) and cause the suction spring (121), which is complementary to the blow spring (111), to oscillate by generating a set of pressures inside the chamber (131).

35. A kit for a harmonica (100), wherein, The kit includes at least one comb (130) for a harmonica (100) according to claim 33 and at least one additional plate (150) for a harmonica (100) according to claim 34.

Images