Abstract:
A noisemaking devices are described, which may be a blade member having a handle joining portion at its base, a flexible plate member operable for making sound (e.g., low-pitched, clicking sounds and alternative, louder, high-pitched clicking sounds), the flexible plate member having an indention that is operable for producing a sound when the flexible plate member is flexed about the indention. A handle, an upper portion of which is joined to the flexible plate member and be pivotably joined to the blade such that the blade pivots when the handle is translated perpendicular to the plane of the blade, and the blade and the flexible plate member being oriented such that when the blade pivots, the blade causes the flexible plate member to flex and thereby make the sound.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   The present Utility patent application claims priority benefit of the U.S. provisional application for patent 60/671,305 filed on Apr. 14, 2005 under 35 U.S.C. 119(e). 
   FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
   Not applicable. 
   REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER LISTING APPENDIX 
   Not applicable. 
   COPYRIGHT NOTICE 
   A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office, patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. 

   FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention relates to percussion instruments and noisemaking devices or cheering mechanisms, more particularly to hand-held percussion instruments and noisemaking devices or cheering mechanisms used to create a variety of sounds. Such percussion instruments and noisemakers are used by musicians, performers, sports fans, partygoers and others performing, celebrating or needing such devices or mechanisms to replace, simulate or supplement musical sounds, cheering, applause or other artificial or non-artificial sounds. 
   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   Conventional percussion instruments include, without limitation, drums, tambourines, cowbells, cymbals, castanets, maracas, and wooden blocks. Percussion instruments used to create unconventional sounds include, without limitation, garbage cans, garbage can lines, metal pots and pans, washboards and hollow logs. 
   Handheld percussion instruments and noisemakers are found in concert halls, schools, sports stadiums, at New Year&#39;s celebrations, at birthday parties, and at a host of other events and special occasions. Musicians, performers, cheering fans and partygoers use percussion instruments and noisemakers to make more sounds, louder sounds and noise, and/or different sounds and noise than if, they were just using their voices or hands to create the same or similar sounds or noise. Percussion instruments and noisemakers can also assist a person&#39;s ability to make musical sounds or noise over longer periods with relative ease. 
   An example of a conventional handheld percussion instrument and noisemaker is the Smith instrument illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 4,075,922, which is a sound-producing clapper assembly capable of producing, a soft pattering sound and an alternative, louder, rattling drum-roll noise. A limitation in Smith&#39;s design is that it only produces two distinct sounds. Furthermore, the majority of the sound generated cannot be projected in any one particular direction. The sound produced moves away from the device in a 360-degree pattern. This 360-degree pattern could project sound in the direction of people nearby who may find the noise undesirable. 
   Handheld noisemaking devices are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,984,761 issued to Kalinowski, in U.S. Design Pat. No. D373,150, issued to Zaksenberg and in U.S. Design Pat. No. D392,000 issued to Rapp. The Kalinowski, Zaksenberg, and Rapp designs are each noisemakers that use a handle to force multiple outer paddles to strike a center paddle creating sound. Zaksenberg and Rapp both designed their noisemakers with their outer paddles located closer to the center paddle. Kalinowski was able to show why the Zaksenberg and Rapp designs provided an insufficient amount of sound. Kalinowski successfully increased the sound of his design when he repositioned the paddles further away from his center paddle by relocating the pivot area. 
   Another example of a known noisemaker is disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 20010034177 issued to Hunn, who describes a noisemaking device consisting of a head at tone end attached to a handle. The handle is at least partially hollow. A user is able to, at least partially create noise by filling the handle with various items like bells and balls and shaking the noisemaking device causing the contents to rattle off the inside of the handle. Because a person must hold the handle to use Hunn&#39;s noisemaking device, the person&#39;s hand may undesirably reduce the level of noise resonating from the device. 
   Hunn&#39;s noisemaking device like those illustrated earlier by Smith, Kalinowski, Zaksenberg and Rapp, project only a moderate amount of sound a short distance and mostly in a 360-degree pattern. Furthermore, the designs by Smith, Hunn, Kalinowski, Zaksenberg, and Rapp each produce generally only one or two sounds, either increasing or decreasing depending on the amount of effort used to activate the device. 
   Another example of a noisemaker is disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 186,169 issued to Rowbotham, who describes a noisemaking device consisting of a steel box enclosing a flat steel plate that, when depressed, creates a clicking sound. U.S. army paratroopers used a similar device called a “cricket” during WWII to quietly communicate to one another during dangerous situations. Examples of the noisemaker are documented in books titled “D-Day: Jun. 6, 1944” by Stephen E. Ambrose; “D-Day: The Strategy, the Men, the Equipment” by Bernard C. Nulty; “D-Day: As They Saw It” by Lord Carver and many others. The “cricket” was first a toy before the military made it part of their lifesaving equipment. Today a similar handheld device is used to train animals. 
   The “cricket” generally consisted of two pieces of steel; one served as the body of the noisemaking device and the other was usually a thin, flat, rectangular piece used to make the actual noise. The “cricket” requires a user to create noise by using their thumb or finger to bend the flat, rectangular piece of steel. The use of the user&#39;s thumb or finger to bend the steel plate could easily cause the muscles of their hand to become weak if operated for more than a short period. The device only produces two sounds; one when a user presses down on the steel plate and another slightly different sound when the user releases the steel plate. 
   Another example of a known noisemaker is disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 3,902,272 issued to Molenaar, who illustrates a sound generating device similar to the “cricket”, consisting of a steel box enclosing a piece of flat steel plate which when depressed creates a clicking sound. The difference between Molenaar&#39;s sound generating device and the “cricket” is how the steel plate is held firm inside the device. The “cricket” is designed so that only one end of the steel plate is allowed to bend. Molenaar&#39;s device is designed so that neither end of the steel plate is allowed to bend. Molenaar&#39;s device creates sound by bending the middle of the steel plate. A person using the device is required to use their finger to activate the steel plate by pressing down on the steel plate. The device, like the “cricket” is only able to produce a limited amount of sound and project sound a short distance. Also, Molenaar&#39;s design creates limited sound because the user is required to press on the very area that produces the sound. 
   Furthermore, most past and present noisemakers used at parades, parties, sports arenas, and many other events are often provided to the public free of charge. Numerous companies purchase noisemakers to advertise their names and logos in hopes of generating future business. Many of the noisemakers purchased are made of materials that limit the size of a company&#39;s name and logo to one color. Many of these noisemakers also limit the amount of space available for advertising. An advertiser needs a noisemaker that is made with a material that can allow for using several colors and a larger imprint area for advertising. A noisemaker that offers multiple color imprinting and a larger imprint area at prices similar to a competitor&#39;s noisemaker is a tremendous advantage to the advertiser. 
   In view of the foregoing, there is a need for an improved handheld noisemaker that is able to create a variety of sounds, that is able to direct the sound in a particular direction and that is easy to use. There is also a need for a noisemaker that can be made of a material that can be imprinted with several colors, and that provides a substantial imprint area advertising. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompnaying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which: 
       FIG. 1  is an environmental view of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according, to an embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 2  is an exploded view of the exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device illustrated in  FIG. 1 , according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 3  and  FIG. 4  illustrate an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device being held by a user, according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 3  is a front view, and  FIG. 4  is a side view; 
       FIG. 5 ,  FIG. 6 ,  FIG. 7 ,  FIG. 8 , and  FIG. 9  are detailed views of exemplary components of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 5  shows an exemplary handle.  FIG. 6  shows a top view of the handle.  FIG. 7  shows an exemplary paddle.  FIG. 8  shows an exemplary flexible plate, and  FIG. 9  shows an exemplary brace; 
       FIG. 10  and  FIG. 11  show an exemplary flexible plate from a percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 10  shows a top view of the exemplary flexible plate, and  FIG. 11  shows a side, angled, and top view of the exemplary flexible plate being held by a user; 
       FIG. 12 ,  FIG. 13 , and  FIG. 14  illustrate an exemplary brace from a percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 12  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, the brace as the paddle is inserted into the brace.  FIG. 13  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, the brace attached to the top of the handle.  FIG. 14  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a view looking down inside the top of the handle; 
       FIG. 15 ,  FIG. 16 , and  FIG. 17  are interior views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 15  shows the paddle in the forward position;  FIG. 16  shows the paddle in the neutral position; and  FIG. 17  shows the paddle in the backward position; 
       FIG. 18  illustrates an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device while the paddle is in motion, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 19 ,  FIG. 20 , and  FIG. 21  are motion views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 19  illustrates backward movement;  FIG. 20  illustrates forward movement; and  FIG. 21  illustrates forward and backward movement; 
       FIG. 22  illustrates the use of an exemplary trigger mechanism in an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 23  illustrates the sound flow from an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 24 ,  FIG. 25  and  FIG. 26  illustrate interior views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device with multiple flexible plates, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 24  shows a view with the paddle in the forward position:  FIG. 25  shows the paddle in the neutral position; and  FIG. 26  shows the paddle in the backward position; 
       FIG. 27 ,  FIG. 28  and  FIG. 29  illustrate interior views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device with multiple paddles, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 27  shows the paddles in the forward position;  FIG. 28  shows the paddles in the neutral position; and  FIG. 29  shows the paddles in the backward position; 
       FIG. 30 ,  FIG. 31  and  FIG. 32  illustrate interior views of a exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 30  shows the paddle in the forward position;  FIG. 31  shows the paddle in the neutral position; and  FIG. 32  slows the paddle in the backward position; 
       FIG. 33 ,  FIG. 34  and  FIG. 35  illustrate interior views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 33  shows the paddle in the forward position;  FIG. 34  shows the paddle in the neutral position; and  FIG. 35  shows the paddle in the backward position; 
       FIG. 36 ,  FIG. 37 ,  FIG. 38  and  FIG. 39  illustrate cross sectional views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device comprising a stick and a flag, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 36 ,  FIG. 37  and  FIG. 38  shows a side view of the device, and  FIG. 39  shows the front view of the device; 
       FIG. 40 ,  FIG. 41 ,  FIG. 42 ,  FIG. 43 ,  FIG. 44  and  FIG. 45  illustrate cross sectional views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 40  shows the paddle in the neutral position;  FIG. 41  shows the paddle moving in the direction of the backward position;  FIG. 42  shows the paddle in the backward position;  FIG. 43  shows the paddle in the neutral position;  FIG. 44  shows the paddle moving in the direction of the forward position; and  FIG. 45  shows the paddle in the forward position. 
   

   Unless otherwise indicated illustrations in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   To achieve the forgoing and other objects and in accordance with the purpose of the invention, a variety of percussion instruments and noisemaking devices are described. 
   An embodiment of the present invention is comprised of a blade member having a handle joining portion at its base, a flexible plate member operable for making sound (e.g., without limitation, low-pitched, clicking sounds and alternative, louder, high-pitched clicking sounds), the flexible plate member having an indention that is operable for producing a sound when the flexible plate member is flexed about the indention, and a handle, an upper portion of which is configured to receive and joined to a lower portion of the flexible plate member and be pivotably joined to a lower portion of the blade such that the blade pivots when the handle is translated perpendicular to the plane of the blade, and the blade and the flexible plate member being oriented such that when the blade pivots, the blade causes the flexible plate member to flex and thereby make a sound. 
   In an embodiment of the present invention, the lower portion of the flexible plate member is a generally narrow protruding neck that is operable to be received into the handle, which may optionally further include a pivoting mechanism in which the neck including at least one pivot joint member and the handle including a complementary pivoting joint receiving member, both of which properly mate for pivotably joining the blade to the handle. In alternate embodiment of the present inventions the pivoting location of the pivoting mechanism is adjustable such that at least one alternate sound is produced by making the neck cause a different contact point with an inside front part of the handle. In an embodiment of the present invention, the upper handle portion includes at least one hole generally opening in the direction of the translation, at least one hole being operable for channeling in the direction of translation any sound produced by the flexible plate. In an embodiment of the present invention, the blade is further a generally elongated member having an object joined thereto; which objects may optionally be shaped as a flag, a football, a pennant, a baseball, a bottle, a can of beer or other suitable object. A bracing member is further included in some embodiment of the present invention, which member braces the upper handle portion such that the bracing member is operable to strengthen the top of the upper handle portion from breakage when the handle is normally translated forwards and/or backwards. 
   In alternate embodiments of the present invention, means are provided to perform the foregoing functions. 
   In an embodiment of the present invention, the flexible plate member, the indention, and the lower blade portion pivotal joining all are cooperatively configured together such that a gentle flapping handle translation motion causes the flexible plate member to produce a first set of one or more sounds, while a more vigorous flapping handle translation motion causes the flexible plate member to produce a second set of one or more sounds. 
   Another embodiment of the present invention further includes another flexible plate member disposed on an opposite side of the blade such that the blade causes the other flexible plate member to flex and thereby make a sound when the blade pivots to an opposite extreme. 
   Other features, advantages, and object of the present invention will become more apparent and be more readily understood from the following detailed description, which should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
   The present invention is best understood by reference to the detailed figures and description set forth herein. 
   Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to the Figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments. For example, it should be appreciated that those skilled in the art will, in light of the teachings of the present invention, recognized a multiplicity of alternate and suitable approaches, depending upon the needs of the particular application, to implement the functionality of any given detail described herein, beyond the particular implementation choices in the following embodiments described and shown. That is, there are numerous modifications and variations of the invention that are too numerous to be listed but that all fit within the scope of the invention. Also, singular words should be read as plural and vice versa and masculine as feminine and vice versa, where appropriate and alternatives embodiments do not necessarily imply that the two are mutually exclusive. 
   The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. 
   It is to be understood that any exact measurements/dimensions or particular construction materials indicated herein are solely provided as examples of suitable configurations and are not intended to be limiting in any way. Depending on the needs of the particular application, those skilled in the art will readily recognize, in light of the following teachings, a multiplicity of suitable alternative implementation details. 
     FIG. 1  is an environmental view of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in  FIG. 1 , a percussion instrument and noisemaker made in accordance with the present invention comprises four elements, shown separately in  FIG. 2 . 
     FIG. 2  is an exploded view of the exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device illustrated in  FIG. 1 , according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the noisemaking device comprises a paddle  10 , a handle  20 , a flexible plate  30 , and a brace  40 . Elements of the noisemaking device may be constructed of a variety of materials. Handle  20  may be constructed of plastic, metal, wood, etc. In the preferred embodiment, handle  20  is made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. Paddle  10  may be constructed of any durable material that can be imprinted with advertisements or logos, such as, but not limited to, wood, metal, plastic, etc. In the preferred embodiment, paddle  10  is made of polypropylene. Flexible plate  30  may be constructed of any durable, flexible material such as, but not limited to, metal or plastic. In the preferred embodiment, flexible plate  30  is constructed of spring steel. 
     FIG. 3  and  FIG. 4  illustrate an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device being held by a user, according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 3  is a front view, and  FIG. 4  is a side view. 
     FIG. 5 ,  FIG. 6 .  FIG. 7 ,  FIG. 8 , and  FIG. 9  are detailed views of exemplary components of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 5  shows exemplary handle  20 .  FIG. 6  shows a top view of handle  20 .  FIG. 7  shows exemplary paddle  10 .  FIG. 8  shows exemplary flexible plate  30 , and  FIG. 9  shows exemplary brace  40 .  FIG. 5  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, handle  20  including, without limitation, a top opening  21 , a front opening  22 , a pivot hole  23 B, and a wrist strap holder  24 . The noise generated is able to escape the device through top opening  21  and front opening  22 , as shown in  FIG. 23 . In one suitable implementation, handle  20  measures 75 cm in height, 26 cm in length, and 17 cm in width, and front opening  22  measures 35 cm in height and 20 cm in width. However, alternate measurements for handle  20  and front opening  22  would be suitable depending upon the needs of the particular application. 
     FIG. 6  illustrates, by way of example and not by limitation, a neck  13 A of paddle  10  inserted into top opening  21  of handle  20 . In the present embodiment, attaching paddle  10  to handle  20  involves inserting a pivot  12 A, shown in  FIG. 7 , into a pivot hole  23 A and inserting a pivot  12 B, shown in  FIG. 7 , into pivot hole  23 B, as shown in  FIG. 5 .  FIG. 6  also illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, flexible plate  30  inside of handle  20 , an indention  31  in flexible plate  30 , and wrist strap holder  24 . In the preferred embodiment, pivot holes  23 A and  23 B of handle  20  measure 4 cm in diameter, and the center of pivot holes  23 A and  23 B of handle  20  are located 5 cm from top opening,  21  of handle  20  and 8 cm from front opening  22 . However, alternate measurements would also be suitable. 
     FIG. 7  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a detailed view of paddle  10 , which comprises an imprint area  11  for displaying advertising, product logos, and/or other information.  FIG. 7  also illustrates pivot  12 A, pivot  12 B and neck  13 A of paddle  10 , a forward pressure point  13 B and a backward pressure point  13 C located on the backside of neck  13 A of paddle  10 . See  FIG. 9  and  FIG. 10  for a more detailed description of forward pressure point  13 B and backward pressure point  13 C. In the present embodiment, paddle  10  is large enough that imprint area  11  provides adequate space for advertisements and logos. In the preferred embodiment, paddle  10  measures 15.5 cm in height, 11 cm in length, and 0.3 cm in width, and neck  13 A of paddle  10  measures 2.2 cm in height, 2.2 cm in length, and 0.3 cm in width. However, alternate embodiments may be made in various sizes. 
     FIG. 8  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, flexible plate  30 , and indention  31 . In the preferred embodiment, flexible plate  30  measures 4.7 cm in height, 2.2 cm in length, and 0.02 cm in width. Also, in the preferred embodiment, the center point of indention  31  of flexible plate  30  is located 2.9 cm from the longest edge of flexible plate  30  and 1.8 cm from the shortest edge of flexible plate  30 , and indention  31  measures 0.06 cm in diameter. However, in alternate embodiments, these dimensions may be altered. 
     FIG. 9  illustrates, by way of example and not limitation, brace  40 . Brace  40  is used to reinforce the strength of handle  20  when neck  13 A of paddle  10  makes contact with the front inside edge of handle  20 , as shown in  FIG. 15 . In the preferred embodiment, brace  40  measures 0.4 cm in height, 3.1 cm in length, and 2.1 cm in width, but alternate measurements would be suitable. Brace  40  may be constructed of any durable material such as, but not limited to plastic, metal or wood. In the preferred embodiment, brace  40  is made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. 
     FIG. 10  and  FIG. 11  show exemplary flexible plate  30  from a percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 10  shows a top view of flexible plate  30 , and  FIG. 11  shows a side, angled, and top view of flexible plate  30  being held by a user.  FIG. 10  shows, by way of example and not limitation, flexible plate  30 , indention  31 , flexible plate  30 , and a flexible area extending from a point  32 A to a point  32 B of flexible plate  30  that is able to bend when paddle  10  exerts pressure on flexible plate  30 .  FIG. 10  also illustrates an area from point  32 B to a point  32 C of flexible plate  30  that is held in a fixed position inside handle  20  and not able to bend when paddle  10  exerts pressure on flexible plate  30 .  FIG. 11  illustrates, by way of example, the size of flexible plate  30  relative to a user&#39;s hand. In the preferred embodiment, flexible plate  30  is generally a thin, flat rectangular shaped surface having small indention  31  located at one end. 
     FIG. 12 ,  FIG. 13 , and  FIG. 14  illustrate an exemplary brace from a percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 12  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, brace  40  as paddle  10  is inserted into brace  40 .  FIG. 13  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, brace  40  attached to the top of handle  20 .  FIG. 14  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, a view looking down inside the top of handle  20 . In the present embodiment, paddle  10  and flexible plate  30  are inserted into handle  20 . Brace  40  is attached to the top of handle  20 . Flexible plate  30  is seated against paddle  10 . 
     FIG. 15 ,  FIG. 16 , and  FIG. 17  are interior views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 15  shows paddle  10  in the forward position;  FIG. 16  shows paddle  10  in the neutral position; and  FIG. 17  shows paddle  10  in the backward position.  FIG. 15  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, an interior view of neck  13 A of paddle  10  inserted into handle  20 . In this illustration, neck  13 A of paddle  10 , while in the forward position, makes contact with a top inside front edge  25 A of handle  20  causing paddle  10  to bend flexible plate  30  at forward pressure point  13 B causing indention  31  to create a sound.  FIG. 16  illustrates how neck  13 A of paddle  10  while in the neutral position also allows for flexible plate  30  to remain in the neutral position.  FIG. 17  illustrates how neck  13 A of paddle  10 , while in the backward position, does not make contact with a top inside back edge  25 B of handle  20  causing paddle  10  to bend flexible plate  30  at backward pressure point  13 C causing indention  31  to create a sound. 
   There is a difference in how flexible plate  30  is bent in  FIG. 15  compared to  FIG. 17 . This difference is a result of how neck  3 A of paddle  10  bends flexible plate  30 . Indention  31  reacts to forward pressure point  13 B of neck  13 A when paddle  10  moves forward as shown in  FIG. 15 , and indention  31  reacts to backward pressure point  13 C of neck  13 A when paddle  10  moves backward as shown in  FIG. 17 . By allowing neck  13 A of paddle  10  to make contact with inside front edge  25 A or handle  20  when paddle  10  moves forward, more pressure is exerted on flexible plate  30  compared to when neck  13 A or paddle  10  is not making contact with inside back edge  25 B. By not allowing neck  13 A of paddle  10  to make contact with inside back edge  25 B of handle  20  when paddle  10  moves backward, less pressure is exerted on flexible plate  30 . 
     FIG. 18  illustrates an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device while paddle  10  is in motion, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 18  shows a forward motion of paddle  10  from a backward paddle position  10 B to a forward paddle position  10 A and a backward motion of paddle  10  from forward paddle position  10 A to backward paddle position  10 C. Paddle  10  moves in a forward motion from a center paddle position  10 B to forward paddle position  10 A eventually touching top inside front edge  25 A of handle  20  where paddle  10  reaches its furthest forward limit, forward paddle position  10 A, causing indention  31  of flexible plate  30  to create a sound. As paddle  10  moves in a backward motion from forward paddle position  10 A to center paddle position  10 C, the end of neck  13 A of paddle  10 , as shown in  FIG. 7  and  FIG. 15 , releases the pressure on flexible plate  30  allowing flexible plate  30  to return to its previous shape, as shown in  FIG. 16 , creating a second slightly different sound. A third sound is created when paddle  10  moves in a backward motion from center paddle position  10 B to backward paddle position  10 C eventually reaching the furthest backward limit, backward paddle position  10 C, causing indention  31  of flexible plate  30  to create a sound. As paddle  10  moves in a forward motion from backward paddle position  10 C to center paddle position  10 B, the tipper part of neck  13 A, as shown in  FIG. 7  and  FIG. 17 , releases the pressure on flexible plate  30 , allowing indention  31  of flexible plate  30  to return to its previous shape, as shown in  FIG. 16 , creating a fourth slightly different sound. 
   The four different sound characteristics mentioned earlier may be created, by way of example, and not limitation, in the following manners: when paddle  10  moves from center paddle position  10 B to forward paddle position  10 A, when paddle  10  moves from forward paddle position  10 A to center paddle position  10 B; when paddle  10  moves from center paddle position  10 B to backward paddle position  10 C; and when paddle  10  moves from backward paddle position  10 C to center paddle position  10 B. 
     FIG. 19 ,  FIG. 20 , and  FIG. 21  are motion views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 19  illustrates backward movement;  FIG. 20  illustrates forward movement; and  FIG. 21  illustrates forward and backward movement.  FIG. 19  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, how a user can use the present embodiment to make one series of sounds by moving paddle  10  back and forth between center paddle position  10 B and backward paddle position  10 C.  FIG. 20  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, how a user can use the device to make a second series of sounds by moving paddle  10  back and forth between forward paddle position  10 A and center paddle position  10 B. In this example, a user is required to brace the backside of paddle  10  with their thumb to keep paddle  10  from moving to backward paddle position  10 C.  FIG. 21  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, how a user can use the device to make a third series of sounds by moving paddle  10  back and forth between forward paddle position  10 A and backward paddle position  10 C. 
     FIG. 22  illustrates the use of an exemplary trigger mechanism in an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 22  shows, by way of example and not by way of limitation, how the device can produce additional sounds when a user uses an index finger  33  to exert different amounts of pressure on flexible plate  30 . Placing index finger  33  through front opening  22  of handle  20  allows the user to trigger additional sounds while moving paddle  10  back and forth. The sounds created using this method can range from an assortment of soft, low-pitched muffled clicking to a series of loud, high-pitched popping. 
     FIG. 23  illustrates the sound flow from an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, according, to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 23  shows, by way of example and not by way of limitation, how sound flows from front opening  22  and top opening  21  of handle  20 . Front opening  22  of handle  20  allows the user to direct most of the sound forward in the direction of an arrow  22 A. A limited amount of sound escapes from top opening  21  of handle  20 , moving upward in the direction of an arrow  21 A. 
   A user can also create additional sounds by partially covering or fully covering front opening  22  or handle  20 , thus restricting the sound allowed to resonate from the device. Also, increasing the speed and force of the back and forth movement of paddle  10  may change the intensity of the sound. 
   In alternate embodiments of the present invention handle  20  may be redesigned, fully closing front opening  22  or making front opening  22  larger, smaller or by adding multiple openings to handle  20 . It is also understood that one could increase or decrease the sounds created by changing the diameter of indention  31  in flexible plate  30 , by changing the size and thickness of flexible plate  30 , or by drilling holes into flexible plate  30 . In other alternate embodiments, paddle  10 , handle  20 , flexible plate  30  and brace  40  may be constructed of alternate materials such as, but not limited to, plastic, wood, metal or some other suitable material. 
     FIG. 24 ,  FIG. 25  and  FIG. 26  illustrate interior views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device with multiple flexible plates  30 A and  30 B, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 24  shows a view with a paddle  10  in a forward position  10 A;  FIG. 25  shows paddle  10  in a neutral position  10 B; and  FIG. 26  shows paddle  10  in a backward position  10 C.  FIG. 24  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, paddle  10  and flexible plates  30 A and  30 B in forward paddle position  10 A inserted into a handle  20 .  FIG. 24  illustrates how an alternative design of one end of paddle  10  pivoting on an axis  23 B causes a lower end  10 D of paddle  10  to bend flexible plate  30 B when paddle  10  is in forward paddle position  10 A causing an indention  31 B on flexible plate  30 B to create a sound. Furthermore, flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are held in place by an anchor  34 . Anchor  34  may be one of a variety of means including, but not limited to, glue, a block that flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are inserted into, a clamp, a screw, and etc. 
     FIG. 25  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, paddle  10  in neutral position  10 B and flexible plates  30 A and  30 B inserted into handle  20 .  FIG. 25  illustrates how the pivoting of paddle  10  on axis  23 B while in neutral position  10 B also allows flexible plates  30 A and  30 B and indentions  31 A and  31 B on flexible plates  30 A and  30 B to remain in a neutral position. In addition, lower end  10 D of paddle  10  is inserted between flexible plates  30 A and  30 B, and flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are held in place by anchor  34 . 
     FIG. 26  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, paddle  10  and flexible plates  30 A and  30 B inserted into handle  20  in backward paddle position  10 C.  FIG. 26  illustrates how the pivoting of paddle  10  on axis  23 B causes lower portion  10 D of paddle  10  to bend flexible plate  30 A when paddle  10  is in backward paddle position  10 C causing indention  31 A to create a sound. Furthermore, flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are held in place by anchor  34 . 
     FIG. 27 ,  FIG. 28  and  FIG. 29  illustrate interior views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device with multiple paddles  36 A,  36 B, and  36 C, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 27  shows paddles  36 A,  36 B, and  36 C in the forward position;  FIG. 28  shows paddles  36 A,  36 B, and  36 C in the neutral position; and  FIG. 29  shows paddles  36 A,  36 B, and  36 C in the backward position.  FIG. 27  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, multiple paddles  36 A,  36 B,  36 C in the forward position, and flexible plates  30 A and  30 B inserted into a handle  20 . In the present embodiment, flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are similar to prior art flexible plates disclosed by Molenaar. Paddles  36 A,  36 B and  36 C pivot on axes  23 A,  23 B and  23 C, respectively, causing paddle  36 A to bend flexible plate  30 A when paddle  36 A is in the forward paddle position causing an indention  31 A to create a sound. 
   Center paddle  36 B does not make contact with flexible plates  30 A or  30 B. Because center paddle  36 B moves freely on axis  23 B and is made of a flexible or non-flexible material such as but not limited to, rubber, plastic, metal, wood, cardboard, and etc., center paddle  36 B is able to make contact with front paddle  36 A at a forward position  11 A. Likewise, center paddle  36 B is able to make contact with rear paddle  36 C at a backward position  11 B, as shown in  FIG. 29 . The present multiple paddle design is able to generate numerous sounds depending on the material used for center paddle  36 B compared to outside paddles  36 A and  36 C and the material used for the flexible plates  30 A and  30 B. Examples of materials that would be suitable for outer paddles  36 A and  36 C are, without limitation, rigid plastic, wood, metal, etc. Examples of materials that would be suitable for flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are, without limitation, metal, plastic, etc. Furthermore,  FIG. 27  illustrates how flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are held in place by anchors  34 A and  34 B. Anchors  34 A and  34 B may be of a variety of means including, but not limited to, glue, blocks that flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are inserted into, clamps. screws, etc. 
     FIG. 28  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, paddles  36 A,  36 B and  36 C in the neutral position, and flexible plates  30 A,  30 B inserted into handle  20 .  FIG. 28  illustrates how, when paddles  36 A,  36 B and  36 C are in a neutral position, the device allows flexible plates  30 A and  30 B and indentions  31 A and  31 B on flexible plates  30 A and  30 B to remain in a neutral position. Furthermore,  FIG. 28  illustrates how flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are held in place by anchors  34 A and  34 B. 
     FIG. 29  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, paddles  36 A,  36 B and  36 C in the backward position, and two flexible plates  30 A,  30 B inserted into handle  20 . Paddles  35 A,  36 B and  36 C pivot on axes  23 A,  23 B and  23 C, respectively, causing paddle  36 C to bend flexible plate  30 B when paddle  36 C is in the backward paddle position causing indention  31 B on flexible plate  30 B to create a sound. Center paddle  36 B does not make contact with flexible plates  30 A or  30 B. Because center paddle  36 B moves freely on pivot  23 B, center paddle  36 B is able to make contact with back paddle  36 C at backward position  11 B. Likewise, center paddle  36 B is able to make contact with front paddle  36 A at forward position  11 A, as shown in  FIG. 27 . This multiple paddle design is able to generate numerous sounds depending on the material used for center paddle  36 B compared to the outside paddles  36 A and  36 C and the material used for flexible plates  30 A and  30 B. 
     FIG. 30 ,  FIG. 31  and  FIG. 32  illustrate interior views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, in accordance with an embodiment or the present invention.  FIG. 30  shows a paddle  10  in a forward position  10 A;  FIG. 31  shows paddle  10  in a neutral position  10 B; and  FIG. 32  shows paddle  10  in a backward position  10 C. In the present embodiment, paddle  10  and flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are inserted into a handle  20 . Flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are similar to those disclosed by Molenaar.  FIG. 30  illustrates how an alternative design of one end of paddle  10  pivoting on an axis  23 B, causing paddle  10  to bend flexible plate  30 B when paddle  10  is in forward paddle position  10 A, causes an indention  31 B to create a sound. Furthermore, flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are held in place by anchors  35 A,  35 B,  35 C and  35 D. Anchors  35 A,  35 B,  35 C, and  35 D may be of a variety of means including, but not limited to, glue, blocks that flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are inserted into, clamps, screws, etc. 
     FIG. 31  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of imitation, paddle  10  and flexible plates  30 A and  30 B in the neutral position; inserted into handle  20 .  FIG. 31  illustrates how paddle  10 , when in neutral paddle position  10 B, allows flexible plates  30 A and  30 B and indentions  31 A and  31 B in flexible plates  30 A and  30 B to also remain in a neutral position. Furthermore,  FIG. 31  illustrates how flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are held in place by anchors  35 A,  35 B,  35 C and  35 D. 
     FIG. 32  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, paddle  10  and flexible plates  30 A and  30 B in backward position  10 C inserted into handle  20 .  FIG. 32  illustrates paddle  10  pivoting, on axis  23 B, causing paddle  10  to bend flexible plate  30 A when paddle  10  is in backward paddle position  10 C, thus causing indention  31 A to create a sound. Furthermore,  FIG. 32  illustrates how flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are held in place by anchors  35 A,  35 B,  35 C and  35 D. 
     FIG. 33 ,  FIG. 34  and  FIG. 35  illustrate interior views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 33  shows a paddle  10  in a forward position  10 A:  FIG. 34  shows paddle  10  in a neutral position  10 B; and  FIG. 35  shows paddle  10  in a backward position  10 C.  FIG. 33  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, paddle  10  and a flexible plate  30  inserted into a handle  20  and in forward position  10 A.  FIG. 33  illustrates how paddle  10  pivots on an axis  23 B causing paddle  10  to bend flexible plate  30  when paddle  10  is in forward paddle position  10 A, thus causing an indention  31  on flexible plate  30  to create a sound. Furthermore, one end of flexible plate  30  is held in place by an anchor  34 . The other end of the flexible plate  30  is attached to paddle  10  and held in place by anchor  32 . Anchor  32  and anchor  34  may be one of a variety of means including, but not limited to, glue, a block that flexible plates  30 A and  30 B are inserted into, a clamp, a screw etc. 
     FIG. 34  illustrates paddle  10  and flexible plate  30  in neutral position  10 B inserted into handle  20 .  FIG. 34  illustrates how when paddle  10  is in neutral paddle position  10 B and when paddle  10  is not moving on axis  23 B, flexible plate  30  and indention  31  on flexible plate  30  are also in a neutral position. Furthermore,  FIG. 34  illustrates how flexible plate  30  is held in place by anchor  34 . The other end of the flexible plate is attached to paddle  10  and held in place by anchor  32 . 
     FIG. 35  illustrates, by way of example and not by way of limitation, paddle  10  and flexible plate  30  inserted into handle  20  and in backward position  10 C.  FIG. 35  illustrates how paddle  10  pivots on axis  23 B causing paddle  10  to bend flexible plate  30  when paddle  10  is in backward paddle position  10 C, thus causing indention  31  on flexible plate  30  to create a sound. Furthermore, flexible plate  30  is held in place by anchor  34 . The other end of the flexible plate is attached to paddle  10  and held in place by anchor  32 . 
     FIG. 36 ,  FIG. 37 ,  FIG. 38  and  FIG. 39  illustrate cross-sectional views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device comprising a flag  50 , a stick  51 , a stick neck  52  and an anchor  54 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 36 ,  FIG. 37  and  FIG. 38  shows a side view of the device, and  FIG. 38  shows the front view of the device. The present embodiment comprises flag  50  attached to stick  51  attached to a stick neck  52 , and a flexible plate  30  with an indention  31  inserted into a handle  20 . The present embodiment creates sound when stick  51  attached to stick neck  52  pivots on axis  23 B causing stick neck  52  to bend flexible plate  30  causing indention  31  to create sound.  FIG. 36  shows sticks  51  in a forward position  10 A.  FIG. 37  shows stick  51  in a neutral position  10 B.  FIG. 38  shows sticks  51  in backward position  10 C.  FIG. 39  shows stick  51  in a neutral position  10 B. Furthermore,  FIG. 36 ,  FIG. 37 ,  FIG. 38  and  FIG. 39  illustrates how flexible plate  30  is held in place by anchor  54 . Anchor  54  may be one of a variety of means including, but not limited to, glue, a block that flexible plate  30  is inserted into, clamp, a screw etc. 
     FIG. 37  illustrates by way of example and not by way of limitation, stick  51  and flexible plate  30  in neutral position  10 B inserted into handle  20 .  FIG. 37  illustrates how when stick  51  is in neutral position  10 B and when stick  51  is not moving on axis  23 B, flexible plate  30  and indention  31  are also in a neutral position. Furthermore,  FIG. 37  illustrates how flexible plate  30  is held in place by anchor  34 . 
     FIG. 38  illustrates by way of example and not by way of limitation, stick  51  and flexible plate  30  inserted into handle  20  and in backward position  10 C.  FIG. 38  illustrates how stick  51  attached to stick neck  52  pivots on axis  23 B causing indention  31  on flexible plate  30  to create sound. Furthermore, flexible plate  30  is held in place by anchor  34 . 
   Yet other embodiments of the present invention create different sounds by changing the amount of pressure exerted on the flexible plate by, for example, without limitation, increasing or decreasing the size, shape and weight of the paddle or paddles. An example, without limitation, of increasing or decreasing the size, shape and weight of the paddle would be to use multiple paddles or replace the paddle with a stick holding a flag or pennant, as shown in  FIG. 36  and  FIG. 37 , or to replace the paddle with a gun like trigger or string to bend the flexible plate. In some embodiments the paddle or paddles may be substituted with an object with another shape such as, but not limited to, a football, a baseball, four leaf clover, pumpkin, bottle, can container, etc. One could also change the pressure exerted on the flexible plate by repositioning the pivot holes and/or by allowing the paddle to not make contact with the top inside front edge of the handle and instead to allow the paddle to make contact with the rear inside edge of the handle. It is also possible to change the sound created and the amount of sound created by attaching paddles to both ends of the handle and/or by adding more than one flexible plate and more than one indention to the flexible plate. It is also possible to activate the flexible plate by holding the paddle instead of the handle. Holding the paddle and forcing the handle to move backward and forward can also cause the paddle to bend the flexible plate causing the indention to create sound. Those skilled in the art, in light of the present teachings, will readily recognize other useful ways to adapt the present invention in light of the prior art previously mentioned. One example, of which is to substitute the flexible plate with a flexible plate similar to the type used by Molenaar as illustrated earlier. 
   At least one embodiment will next be described and show that implements a flexible plate without the use of an indention as shown in prior embodiments. It is contemplated that in some practical application, such indentionless embodiments could be relatively more easily and cheaply produced. 
     FIG. 40 ,  FIG. 41 ,  FIG. 42 ,  FIG. 43 ,  FIG. 44  and  FIG. 45  illustrate interior views of an exemplary percussion instrument and noisemaking device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 40  shows a paddle  10  in a neutral position  10 A;  FIG. 41  shows paddle  10  moving towards a backward position  10 B;  FIG. 42  shows paddle  10  in a backward position  10 C;  FIG. 43  shows paddle  10  in a neutral position  10 D;  FIG. 44  shows paddle  10  moving towards a forward position  10 E; and  FIG. 45  shows paddle  10  in a forward position  10 F.  FIG. 40  illustrates, by way of example, and not by way of limitation, paddle  10  and a flexible plate  30  inserted into a handle  20  with paddle  10  in the neutral position  10 A and flexible plate  30  in a neutral position  30 A. Furthermore,  FIG. 40  illustrates how flexible plate  30  is held in place by an anchor  34 .  FIG. 41  illustrates how paddle  10  pivots on an axis  23 B moving towards the backward position  10 B bending flexible plate  30  in a backward position  30 B.  FIG. 42  illustrates how paddle  10  pivots on axis  23 B in the backward position  10 C releasing flexible plate  30  to create sound causing flexible plate  30  to return to a neutral position  30 C. Furthermore,  FIG. 42  illustrates how flexible plate  30  is held in place by anchor  34 .  FIG. 43  illustrates how when paddle  10  is in the neutral position  10 D and when paddle  10  is not moving on axis  23 B, flexible plate  30  is also in a neutral position  30 D. Furthermore,  FIG. 43  illustrates how flexible plate  30  is held in place by anchor  34 .  FIG. 44  illustrates how paddle  10  pivots on axis  23 B moving towards the forward position  10 E bending flexible plate  30  in the forward position  30 E. Furthermore,  FIG. 44  illustrates how flexible plate  30  is held in place by anchor  34 .  FIG. 45  illustrates how paddle  10  pivots on axis  23 B in the forward position  10 F releasing flexible plate  30  to create sound causing flexible plate  30  to return to a neutral position  30 F. Furthermore,  FIG. 45  illustrates how flexible plate  30  is held in place by anchor  34 . 
   It is to be understood that the relationship of the parts and their dimensions include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, and are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art. It is further understood that an equivalent relationships illustrated in the drawings and described in the specifications are intended to be encompassed by the present invention. The illustrative drawings and the specifications described are not intended to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art. 
   Having fully described at least one embodiment of the present invention, other equivalent or alternative percussion instrument and noisemaking devices according to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The invention has been described above by way of illustration, and the specific embodiments disclosed are not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed. The invention is thus to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the following claims.