ADVANCED 3D PRINTED SAXOPHONE MOUTHPIECE FOR ENHANCED ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE AND CUSTOMIZATION

Abstract

ABSTRACT OF THE INVENTION This invention presents a saxophone mouthpiece whose elements have been advanced structurally for superior output. The baffle (101) also serves to manage the airstream which influences the 310 sound's projection and the tone while. the chamber cavity will affect the tonal richness. Cork (103) provides an appropriate grip with the sax neck ensuring no sound escapes. The tip opening (104) commands airflow while a dampener (105) secure reed (106) vibrations to facilitate smooth induction of sound into the saxophone body. This patent is mainly concerned with the manufacture of saxophone mouthpieces through FDM 315 3D printing using PLA, PETG, TPU and, ABS resins and its comparison with the conventional oral-appliances- llave._comparable~molltfiPieces futile traditional ones, however, because of lower expenses and rapid production turnaround time, and design flexibility which expands their market scope.

Specification

DESCRIPTION:
The present invention concerns the mouthpiece of a 3D printer. More particularly
the present invention concerns a high performance motithpiece of a 3D printer. Popular
woodwind instruments saxophones and clarinets use 'l single reed made out of cane,
bamboo or plastic. If air is blown to the reed, the reed moves in a specified resonant cavity
of the mouthpiece. Generally, it is accepted that mouthpieces have side and tip rails that
control reed vibration, assisting in creating a sealed cavity that experiences pressure
change's. The dimensions and outline of this cavity, along with the embouchure placed by
the player, provide the sound. In turn, mouthpieces present different internal geometries
that modulate the airflow, the tone color and the sound timbre. However, design
capabilities are obstructed by conventional processes of production, such as subdivision
into handcrafting and molding. Nevertheless, 3D printing allows refinements to detail,
enhances performance and playability by creating intricate designs which could not be
produced using traditional methods at an economical price. 3D printing of saxophone
mouthpieces achieves geometry, character and unique architectural composition, which
increases play and the quality.ofthe sound.
PRIOR ART AND BACKGROUND:
[0002] The prior art that is covered in USI1145282B2 doesn't utilize any modern materials
such as 3D printing technology which allows the devices to be more adaptable in terms of
its texture and physical properties. It follows the plumbing techniques which are modern
as at today like machining and molding, contributing to limited design variety and
individualization. In addition, the comfort of the player is not considered because this
patent relates more to rebob vibrations' structural tuning as a way of enhancing them rather
than improving the comfort of the player using supple mate::rials or ergonometric concepts
like it is in 3D printing technologies of today.
[0003) US11620970Bl - This patent specifically deals with internal air flow and other
geometry changes as means of improving the sound quality of the single reed mouthpieces.
For all that, it is difficult for the practitioner because of residing on the traditional methods
for manufacturing processes and materials. Converse-ly, this invention employs the
technology of 3D printing (FDM) using a range of materials which can be made to many
different specifications; PLA, PETG, TPU and ABS to enhance the design, material
specification and personalization creating better comfort and sound quality to the end user.
[0004] KR2020012209SA- This patent in general relates to the geometry and the materials
to be used with regards to the mouthpieces of the saxophones in terms of the tonal quality
and stayon strength. It is clear that, while it tackles the stri1ctural aspect, the ways of making
it are still quite conventional. What sets this patticular invention apart is the fact that,
mouthpieces with custom designs for a specific player can be created using modern
manufacturing processes facilitating accelerated prototyping via 3D printing, changing
player's perspectives on comfort and sound of mouthpieces.
[0005] JP6690330B2 - The aim of this patent is in the fastening mechanism and in the
mouthpiece construction for better woodwind instruments handling. Addressing these
issues doesn't include material advancements or new techniques in additive creation.
Unlike this, this particular invention is based on the use of modern filaments for 3D printing
and material possibilities like PLA with Carbon, overall improving the acoustic and
structural experience.
[0006] KR102680320Bl - This patent is about mouthpiece kits that improve the ease of
maintenance and assembly, however, it has not mention any innovative approach in regards
to material options· or acoustic parameters. On the contrary, this invention tackles the
creation of mouthpieces with cematic properties specific to the players using FDM 3D
printing, boasting cost-efficiency alongside customizabilily while also enhancing the sound
and playability.
[0007] USS29380SA - Mouthpiece for Single Reed l'dusical Instruments: This patent
proposes enhancing reed vibration and positioning to improve tone quality and airflow. It
does well in regular mouthpieces, but the characteristics of 3D printing are not present
along with the option to alter material. Your creation is unique as it makes use of the
technology that is 3D printing which allows the user to modify some of the important
features of the mouthpiece including the type of materials to be used such as PLA, PETG
and carbon fiber which eventually leads to better designs. acoustic properties and extent of
comfort.
[0008] US4449439A - Mouthpiece for Woodwind Instruments: According to this patent,
up until now, particular focus has been accorded to the d<:sign of the chamber and the flow
of air inside it, creating a specific tone, due to the exclusive use of traditional production
technologies. Nevertheless, it does not make use of new technologies of additive
prototyping for previous rapid prototyping purposes or specific changes and variations.
The use of FDM 3D printing technology in your innova1 ion makes it possible to fabricate
specifically customized acoustic structures and material:·; which can be efficiently suited
for various individual players while yielding more comfort and tonal variations as opposed
to the conventional designs.
OBJECTIVE:
[0009] The objective of this research is to assess the eflectiveness of Fused Deposition
Modeling (FDM) in saxophone mouthpiece manufacturing in relation to the cost, degree
of customization, and performance as compared to the lraditional method. It studies the
acoustic performance, ergonomics, and usability of 3D printed mouthpieces made of
PLA, PF.TG, TPU, and ABS. The aim is to improve the mouthpieces' sound quality as
well as thetr ease of use, demonstrating the benefits ofFDM in cutting down on costs and
turnaround period while providing a high degree of rustomization.
85 SUMMARY:
This invention introduces a method for producing saxophone mouthpieces using Fused
Deposition Modeling (FOM) with thermoplastic materials including PLA, PETG, TPU, and ABS.
The goa: is to break out of the constraints imposed by the usual processes of machining for
the producti"ln of saxophone mouthpieces and injection molding as they are limited with
the kind of maier~als to be used, the cost of producing the mouthpieces and the design
options. 30 printing is considered revolutionary technology to make more accurate and
individualized mouth;)ieces that enhance the quality of sound produced and the playability
of the instrument. Th.~ target is to develop a mass··produced bespoke solution for
saxophonists who are expe~ienced as well as those wh•'> play as a hobby. This reseAr~;h
explores whether there is a difference between controllable mouthpieces produced via
FDM processes and comn~~nly manufactured ones by e:\amining the existing advantages
wd disadvantages of POM. A .!)umber of mouthpieces were developed and produced using
several FDM methods and their (jYillity was determined by a user based approach. A
professional musician used several nWUfhpieces to perf•.lrm the same classical piece in a
studio setting that was recorded. Their interaction with the mouthpiece and how it sounds
was eva 1uated through !m exlensive exumination. Results suggest that when a precise
design, appropriate materials e.nd proper technologies are used, the ~ound quality and
comfort of 30 printed mouthpieces are comparable to traditionaliN made mouthpieces.
FDM is more effective in terms of customization, expense, and lead time. This study shows
that FDM is a viable substitute for traditional manufacturing, particularly when economic
and personalized considerations are given top priority. It also employs a multidisciplinary
method to evaluate end-user satisfaction.
110 DETAILED TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION:
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[0011] The Saxophone Mouthpiece made using a 3d printer is produced by the fu~ed
deposition modeling (FDM) which is the agglomeration of thermoplastic materials by heat.
The main materials employed include PLA, PETG, TPU, and ABS thermoplastics which
are picked on basis of their sound, mechanical, and thermal properties. The mouthpiece is
designed accordingly through a CAD with adjustable parameters such as tip opening size,
chamber size, and baffle geometry that affect tonal quality ami playability.
[0012] PLA enhances the firmness of the product making it suitable for producing harsh
tones while PETG increases the impact strength and durability of the product. TPU brings
in additional flexibility making the feel and embouchure comfort more controllable, and a
strong performance-grade alternative is also through ABS due to acoustic accuracy and
hardness. The device allows mouth pieces manufacturers to make and manufacture mouth
pieces economically with the important parameters of a specific player being set.
. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING:
[0013] Figure. I Displays dimensional details with the option of the tip, baffle, and
chamber size as adjustable parameters of the mouthpiece .
(0014) Figure. 2 Displays a mouthpiece of a saxophone created using a 3D spin of the PLA
(Polylactic Acid). PLA is a biodegradable plastic that is derived from renewable sources
such as corn starch and quite stiff material that allows producing clear tones. The example
exemplifies the mouthpiece's proper sound curves and clean geometry that enhances the
anticipated acoustic properties.
[0015) Figure. 3 In this figure is what seems to be a saxophone mouthpiece made by a
material known as ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), a thermoplastic that is well
known for its strength and impact resistance ability. The advantage of ABS mouthpieces
is their outstanding strength and impact resistance, and thus they can be used without
concern for a considerable period as a professional. It should be noted the overall shape
and the distribution of the material across the mouthpiece.
[0016] Figure. 4 In addition, this figure just shows a clear mouthpiece that has been created
with the use of thermal polyurelene elastomeric TPU. This is an elastic type of image. The
use of TPU greatly enhances comfort for the player because it is a very soft material
suitable for several better soldiers who are trying to control the embouchure. Figure. 3
clearly depicts that the flexibility of the material allows the user the comfort during long
play.
[0017] Figure.S As shown in this figure, the mouthpiece is made from PETG (Polyethylene
Terephthalate Glycol), which is a Material that is robust and resistant to chemical attack.
Balanced flexibility and strength of the material has popularized the use ofPETG to print
mouthpieces in 3D. The figure illustrates a mouthpiece that has a uniform structure and
smooth surface that improves aesthetic appeal and sound quality and enhances playability.
[0018] Figure.6 This figure indicates a mouthpiece that was manufactured with PLA
carbon,durability;combined
with light weight and strength of the carbon fiber. The result is a mouthpiece
that is more durable and stronger and has good acoustics. The figure depicts the mouthpiece
that comes with a matte finish and helps improve the mouthpiece due to the carbon fiber
reinforcement, which improves the overall strength of the inner and outer parts of the focal
shaft mouthpiece.

CLAIM:
We Claim
225 I. A saxophone mouthpiece is made from 3D printing technology with filaments from PLA,
PETG, TPU, and ABS. This mouth does allow for some modifications to the tip opening
(104), baffle (101) shape and chamber (102) size and enhances sound, acoustics and
usability for the player.
2. The mouthpiece of claim I, wherein PLA (Polylactic Acid) is recommended, is used so as
to remain solid and is environmentally-friendly and biodegradable. It is bright and sharp in
tone and is suitable for beginner to intermediate-level saxophonists.
3. The mouthpiece of claim I, in which TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is used
approximately where comfort and flexibility is needed for enhanced control of the
embouchure and reducing the.discomfort of the player while playing over long periods.
235 4. A PLA composite mouthpiece according to claim I, having carbon fibbers incorporated
into the structure, which provide strength and mechanical stability as well as increased
durability while not affecting the aerophonic features of the mouthpiece. The strong and
low warp features of carbon fiber aid in sound quality delivery.
5. The present invention relates to a saxophonist or a saxophone mouthpiece comprising pru·ts
including a baffle(! OJ) and a chamber(! 02) cork and tip opening(! 04) facing(! 05)
reed(! 06) and throat( I 07) which can enhance ideal airflow, comfort and sound.

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