Patents by Inventor John W. Wolford

John W. Wolford has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 4377268
    Abstract: The present invention is used in conjunction with a musical instrument having a bell including a tapered inner surface, an upper end and a lower end. The stand includes a round disc having upper and lower surfaces, and a side surface formed from an elastomeric material. The side surface gradually tapers inward between the lower and upper surfaces of the disc. The diameter of the lower surface of the disc is slightly greater than the diameter of the inner surface of the lower portion of the bell of the musical instrument. The dimensions of the disc and the inclination of the side surface of the disc cause the disc to exert a frictional locking force between the side surface of the disc and the bell of the musical instrument to maintain the musical instrument in a fixed position with respect to the disc. A base is coupled to the disc and maintains the disc in a level position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1980
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1983
    Inventor: John W. Wolford
  • Patent number: 4178829
    Abstract: A power tube is attachable within the bell end of a flared bell musical instrument for improving the musical sound of the instrument and for making the instrument easier to play. The power tube includes a hollow tubular member having a central axis aligned with the central axis of the instrument and including first and second open ends. The first end of the member forms an air tight seal with the interior of the instrument at a point just prior to the point where the flare of the bell of the instrument commences its rapid, outward sweep. The power tube includes a pair of diametrically opposed vents positioned near the first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1978
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1979
    Inventor: John W. Wolford
  • Patent number: 4037508
    Abstract: This invention relates to the musical drum art, and particularly to the orchestra snare drum and/or marching snare drum. The device compresses the moving air column produced when the batter head is struck, and directs the vibrating column to the proper area for maximum snare effect, livelier feel and sound, with far greater power and projection. This device brings the entire batter head to life, making it playable in all areas of its surface by eliminating the dead spots usually found in the center and around the edge of the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1976
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1977
    Inventor: John W. Wolford