Adjustable musician's equipment stand

A stand for holding a musical accessory at a convenient level having a base comprised of a plurality of adjustable telescoping members forming a U-shape base support, which can be adjusted to extend around other equipment in a crowded stage area, thereby conserving space and enabling the stand to be conveniently situated closely together with such other equipment, and in addition being used as an instrument and equipment support stand that can be compacted into a convenient small package for purposes of storage and transport.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to equipment stands used by musicians, and more particularly to stands for microphones, music, instruments and amplifiers, and more particularly still to a stand having a horizontally adjustable base particularly for use on a crowded stage or performing area and capable of extending around floor supported musical equipment as well as supporting various musical instruments and musical accessories that folds into a compact and easily carried and transported configuration.

2. Preliminary Discussion

Individual musicians such as guitarists or vocalists, as well as musical groups or bands, often perform in venues such as clubs, bars and the like where the stage or performing area is quite small. For example, many corner bars or clubs do not even have a separate stage area, and performers must clear an area of tables, chairs and other like items prior to setting up their equipment. In such situations, there is barely room for a band having several members to set up such equipment, which typically includes several microphone stands, amplification equipment, control processors, a keyboard, drum set and the like. In addition, after such equipment has been set up, there may be little room left over for the band members to move around during their performance, as they typically may desire. Even in clubs having larger performing areas, space is still at a premium, since most band members prefer to be able to move around the stage freely without having to worry about tripping over or running into their equipment.

Performers who both play an instrument, such as an electric guitar, while also providing vocals' encounter a slightly different space problem. Particularly where there is a limited area to move around, such performers will often remain in a more or less stationary position. However, it can be difficult to orient both a foot controller or processor equipment for an electric guitar and a microphone or music stand so that both are in sufficiently close proximity to the performer so that they can be reached without the performer having to continually change or shift positions. This difficulty is largely due to the shapes of such equipment. A typical microphone stand is comprised of a vertically adjustable telescoping pole connected to a round, weighted base situated directly beneath the pole, and is normally placed more or less directly in front of the performer so that the microphone is in close proximity to the performer's face and mouth whenever vocals are required. Electronic guitar foot controls or processing equipment are usually enclosed in a generally rectangular holder or box-like structure which also must be placed in close proximity to the performer so that such foot controls can be comfortably reached by the performer without requiring him or her to shift positions or move away from the microphone. However, placement of the round microphone stand base directly in front of the performer leaves little room for the foot controller. This conflict can adversely affect the quality of the performance, since the microphone and foot controls often may be required to be used simultaneously. The instant invention attempts to overcome this conflict by providing a microphone stand having a base that can be horizontally adjusted for placement around a foot controller or other objects, permitting both the microphone and foot controls to be directly in front of, and therefore within easy reach of, the performer.

In addition, there is frequently other equipment to support as well as floor equipment which is conveniently bracketed by any equipment stands necessary to support elevated equipment and the present music accessories stand is particularly designed to support such equipment while conserving floor space.

3. Description of Related Art

Numerous examples of arrangements for stacking and folding microphone or music stands, or for adjusting the height of such stands, are known in the prior art. In addition, other types of music equipment such as electronic keyboards are usually provided with a support or frame structure. However, the inventor is not aware of a stand for holding a microphone, sheet music, or a small instrument such as a harmonica or large equipment or instruments which stand can be horizontally adjusted to be situated around other equipment used by a musician, such as a foot controller or audio amplifier, thereby making it easier to simultaneously use such equipment while also conserving space in a small or cramped stage area.

For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,067,527 issued Jan. 10, 1978 to J. L. Streit entitled “Musical Instrument Support Stand With Counter-Balanced, Vertically Movable Horn Support Rack,” discloses a stand having a generally U-shaped base when unfolded and in which the legs are folded parallel to the base when not in use.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,407,182 issued Oct. 4, 1983 to A. R. Biasini entitled “Musical Instrument Stand,” discloses a tripod-like stand having telescoping legs which collapse during storage, but are meant to be fully extended during use and collapsed when not in use when they are stored in the hollow bottom.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,445,415 issued to G. J. Izquierdo on May 1, 1984, entitled “Portable Case and Stand for Pedal Controls Operationally Fixed Therein for use with a Keyboard Temporarily Mounted Thereon,” discloses a box structure having several pedal controls for an electronic keyboard permanently mounted therein, which structure is also used to support an electric keyboard. Izquierdo is an example of a time and space-saving arrangement wherein the pedal controls can be situated underneath or in a music stand. However, instruments such as an electronic keyboard, which are elongated in shape, intrinsically have a space provided underneath such instrument for placement of the legs of the user, while stands for sheets of music, a microphone, or instruments such as a harmonica or drum machine typically do not provide such space.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,449,010 issued to F. L. Seebinger on May 15, 1984, entitled “Multi-Position Microphone Stand Support Assembly,” discloses a support for a microphone wherein the vertical support column is pivotable, while the base remains stationary. Such stand allows for more than one microphone to be attached to the support, but does not disclose a horizontally adjustable base.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,718,624 issued to R. G. Greulich on Jan. 12, 1988, entitled “Folding Microphone Stand,” discloses a tripod-type stand in which the support column can be pivoted on the base member, and having an aperture in the base member to accommodate the support column in a fully folding position. Pivoting the support column in relation to the base allows for easier transport or storage of the stand when it is not in use. However, in general folding tripod-type microphone stands are not preferred because they pass unwanted vibrations to the microphone.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,048,789 issued to D. H Eason et al. on Sep. 17, 1991, entitled “Microphone Stand,” discloses a stand having a generally circular base and a U-shaped cutout portion so that several of such bases can be overlapped or stacked when stored. Eason et al. illustrates several other embodiments in which the base portion has a slightly different configuration while still retaining its stackable characteristics. However, none of such embodiments illustrates a base, which can be horizontally adjusted so as to fit around equipment such as a foot controller.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,090,648 issued to W. R. Wood, IV on Feb. 25, 1992, entitled “Stand Assembly,” discloses a stand for holding doors, windows, and the like during painting. The base members of the Wood stand do not appear to be adjustable, however.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,106,048 issued to M. Lebar et al. on Apr. 21, 1992, entitled “Support Stands” discloses a music stand having tripod-type support legs wherein two of the legs are pivotable so that the legs can be folded in a storage position. Tripod-type support stands are well known in the prior art and may possibly be placed over or around a foot controller, but are not adjustable in the same manner as the present invention.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,149,901 issued to M. C. Boor et al. on Sep. 22, 1992, entitled “Guitar Support Apparatus,” discloses a support for a guitar having a pair of parallel pipe-like legs with vertically extending supports spaced thereon.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,340,066 issued to K. J. Ditch on Aug. 23, 1994, entitled “Stand for Article,” discloses another tripod-type adjustable microphone wherein one leg has incorporated a tilt assembly, which allows the angle of the microphone to be adjusted.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,611,508 issued to A. Palmero on Mar. 18, 1997, entitled “Horizontally Adjustable Microphone Support,” discloses a microphone support having a telescoping horizontal cross member attached to the upper end of the vertical support column. The base member in Palmero, however, is a typical round base and is not adjustable.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,857,649 issued to D. H. Eason on Jan. 12, 1999, entitled “Stabilizing and Memory Musical Instrument Stand,” discloses a music stand having a support frame shaped as a cross-frame which is pivotable about the intersection of the frame members.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,863,015 issued to H. Hsu on Jan. 26, 1999, entitled “Microphone Stand Elevating Device, discloses a device which makes it easier to upwardly or downwardly adjust the height of a microphone support column extending from the base of a microphone stand, although the configuration of the base cannot be adjusted.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,893,541 issued to D. Michaelson on Apr. 13, 1999, entitled “Microphone Stand Providing Quick Assembly and Disassembly,” discloses an improved means for quickly assembling and disassembling a support column from a microphone stand base. The base, however, is made from a single generally oval solid structure and is not adjustable.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,215,054 issued to K. S. Woodhouse et al. on Apr. 10, 2001, entitled “Musical Instrument Support Stand,” discloses a stand having telescoping legs which are secured in position using finger screws, in which the legs of the stand all extend outwardly from a central hub.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,215,056 issued to T. Liao on Apr. 10, 2001 entitled “Adjustable Foot Structure for Hi-Hat Cymbal,” discloses a cymbal stand having an adjustable foot member attached to the bottom of a stand member.

Despite the numerous microphone and music stands known in the prior art, each of which provides its own degree of utility, there is a need for a stand having a base portion which incorporates usable space in the center and which can be adjusted to conserve space on a cramped or crowded stage or performing area so as not to interfere with the placement of other music or performing equipment.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore a primary object of the invention to provide a stand for holding a microphone, sheet music, instrument, guitar, amplifier, or the like.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a stand providing floor space in the center portion of the base of the stand to accommodate music or other performing equipment.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a stand having a base portion comprised of a plurality of telescoping members which are independently adjustable.

It is a still further object of the invention to provide a stand wherein the telescoping members can be adjusted so as to surround or avoid other music equipment or control boxes on a stage floor such as speakers, foot controllers or effects processors.

It is a still further object of the invention to provide a stand which requires a minimum amount of space on a stage or performing area.

It is a still further object of the invention to provide a stand providing floor space in the center which can be used in various locations about a musician on a crowded stage.

It is a still further object of the invention to provide a base which can be used to support a microphone stand, music stand, or instrument.

It is a still further object of the invention to provide a base which can accommodate support of several different instruments.

It is a still further object of the invention to provide a base for a microphone, instrument, or music stand which can be easily and quickly set up and stored and carried in a compact configuration when not in use.

Still other objects and advantages of the invention will become clear upon review of the following detailed description in conjunction with the appended drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A stand for use as a microphone stand, music stand, or instrument stand is provided having a telescopingly adjustable base arrangement which is designed to be used particularly in relatively cramped stage or performing areas where there is a need to conserve space, although such arrangement could be used in any performing area. Performers, particularly those musicians or bands performing in a small club or bar environment, often encounter a problem in that there is insufficient room to set up all of their electronic equipment in a reasonably effective manner. The present invention addresses this problem by providing a stand having a generally U-shaped frame or support providing floor space within the center of the “U” and wherein the length of the support members is adjustable so that the support members can be positioned compactly around other equipment such as processors or controllers, thereby more efficiently using the available floor space in setting up such equipment. The pitch or angle of the vertical microphone support column can be adjusted using screw-type foot members on the bottom of the stand. In addition, the foot members provide sufficient room between the floor and horizontal support members so that electric control wires powering the effects processor, instruments, or other equipment can be slipped under such members. The stand can be used not only to accommodate or hold a microphone before a musician on a crowded or cramped stage, but to accommodate an instrument in back of or toward either side of a musician as well as other equipment, such as an amplifier, for which a further pair of telescoping support legs may be provided. The stand as well as the instrument and equipment support features also may be simply and quickly folded or compacted into an easy to carry package for transportation and storage purposes.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following detailed description is of the best mode or modes of the invention presently contemplated. Such description is not intended to be understood in a limiting sense, but to be an example of the invention presented solely for illustration thereof, and by reference to which in connection with the following description and the accompanying drawings one skilled in the art may be advised of the advantages and construction of the invention.

It is frequently necessary or desirable to situate control pedals and other control equipment for loud speakers and other musical, performance and special effects equipment directly in front of a performer, which performer usually is also using a microphone or the like in his or her musical or other artistic performance. In a very large music hall or similar performing environment, there are usually sound men and other technical personnel to handle the operation of sound equipment, modify its effects from time to time as necessary, and generally monitor and adjust the rendition of any performance. A lone performer before smaller audiences, on the other hand, must modify the sound and musical effects him or herself and, since such performer cannot or should not, from an artistic viewpoint, be seen continually adjusting various knobs, dials, switches and the like, foot control pedals are usually provided to allow the performer adequate control of the technical aspects of sound control. Operation of such foot controls is not as visible and distracting to an audience as hand manipulation would be, and frequently an artists hands are otherwise occupied in any event. The most convenient and logical location for such foot control and other equipment is directly in front of the performer. However, where the performer is using a standup microphone, as is frequently necessary, if the artists hands are busy, the microphone base must also be in front of the performer unless the microphone can be supported on a pivoted or counterbalanced beam or pole arrangement from the side, which is sometimes done, or can be hung from the ceiling of the performing area, which is seldom possible in smaller or more general, as distinguished from, professional or specialized performing facilities. Consequently, there is considerable agonizing, adjusting and improvising by an artist before each performance trying to arrange the floor equipment such as foot controls and the like and the base of microphones and the like with respect to the performer. Not only is this improvising period time-consuming, but it also is tension-inducing for the performers and distracting during actual performance. The present inventor, having been presented as a performer with the problem, has ingeniously solved it by providing not only a microphone stand providing floor space in the center directly under the microphone, but one that is freely adjustable so that such stand can be readily adapted to performing equipment of various dimensions while maintaining the floor space taken up by the various equipment at a minimum. Thereby, a very significant problem for performers has been solved in a simple and expedient manner.

The same problem which occurs with microphone bases also frequently occurs with respect to music stands, instrument stands where an instrument must be partially supported or where a single musician must take up alternative instruments during a performance, and in such cases the present invention provides an open base stand with adjustable lateral dimensions which may be used also with great effectiveness. The stand of the invention or base for a stand of the invention is particularly useful also where the stage or performing area is cramped and lacking in space as very many less professional performing areas are.

The inventor has now also discovered that his basic microphone base which provides room at the center of the base for foot controls and the like, as shown and described in his previous application with respect to which this application is a continuation-in-part, can also with little or no substantial modification be used to support holders for instruments behind or to the sides of the performer and can in the same manner surround a loudspeaker or amplifier equipment behind the performer. The inventor has designed further attachments for his stand and base including an improved arrangement for decreasing the dimensions of the folded base for storage and transportation between appearances of the artist.

Reference will now be made in detail to a presently preferred embodiment of the invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

FIGS. 1–9illustrate a first preferred embodiment of the invention, withFIGS. 4 and 8illustrating a slightly alternative embodiment, whileFIGS. 10–15illustrate another possible alternative embodiment,FIGS. 16–29illustrated another alternative embodiment, whileFIGS. 30–3xillustrate yet another alternative embodiment. FIG.1is a side elevation view of the first preferred embodiment of the adjustable musician's stand10of the present invention. While such example of the invention illustrates the stand10supporting a microphone40, it is envisioned as well as illustrated in the alternative embodiments below that the stand10can also be used as a music stand, instrument or equipment support stand, or the like. In addition, the scale ofFIG. 1may appear distorted because the microphone40appears large compared to the microphone support rod or member30. However, support rod30should be understood to be considerably longer, it having been foreshortened in the figure by not showing a central section indicated by dotted lines, and in actuality, the usual microphone support rod will be three or four times as lengthy and usually telescopically adjustable as described below. A typical microphone supported on a stand in accordance with the invention in use by a performing artist is shown inFIG. 7.

Referring still toFIG. 1, stand10is generally comprised of a base20supporting or being coupled to a vertically extending post or support member30, with microphone40secured on the upper end of support member30by bracket or clip42. Microphone cable clips, not shown, may also be situated on support member30to secure a microphone cable, also not shown. A swiveling boom may also be provided as is known in the prior art. Preferably, the height of support member30is telescopingly adjustable, and is comprised of an outer telescoping member or portion31which is secured at its lower end in base20, and an inner telescoping member or portion32. The relative position of such members can be fixed at a desired height or position by a threaded locking mechanism34such as a threaded wing nut fastening of a type known in the prior art located on the upper end of outer member31, whereby relative movement between the telescoping members during use is prevented and the length of the vertical support member30is temporarily fixed or maintained as desired. Alternatively, as illustrated generally inFIGS. 7 and 8, inner telescoping member32can lock in position by rotating inner member32in relation to outer telescoping member31, or various other clamping means known to those skilled in the art can be used.

FIGS. 2–5illustrate in various views and with various orientations the supporting base20, whileFIG. 6illustrates the base20surrounding a typical foot controller device designated by reference number90. As will be shown below, the supporting base20of the inventor's stand10is constructed with a U-shaped frame so that the center portion is relatively open, thereby leaving room for other equipment to also be placed directly in front of the performer. In addition, the legs of supporting base or base central extensions22are also horizontally adjustable, so that the base of the stand can be more easily and efficiently arranged around other equipment on a crowded stage. In addition, each of the base support members can be detached from the stand10or otherwise adjusted for easier storing or carrying.

Still referring toFIGS. 2–5, base20is comprised generally of hub or central portion22, first and second telescoping or extensible corner members50aand50b, and first and second telescoping or extensible leg members60aand60b. In combination, such parts form a generally U-shaped frame or supporting base having an open center and enable base20to be situated in a finite number of different generally horizontal configurations so that the stand10does not interfere with the placement of other electronic equipment on a stage or performing area directly in front of the performer. Each of such parts is preferably made from the same material, which can be any suitable material such as anodized aluminum, hard plastic, steel or the like.

Upwardly facing stand socket24is situated generally at the midpoint of central portion22. As is most clearly shown inFIGS. 1 and 4, outer portion31of telescoping microphone support30is placed in and coupled to socket24by threaded securing members70and72. While stand socket24is shown in the FIGS. as having a rectangular shape to accommodate the rectangular base of coupling member36on the bottom of the outer portion31of microphone support rod30, such socket24can be in any shape depending primarily upon the shape of a particular coupling member. In addition, coupling member36may be either a permanent part of the support rod30or may be slip fitted over the bottom of the support rod30. Socket24is preferably coated with a rubber material that acts as a barrier to prevent floor vibrations from passing through the stand and support rod to the microphone, thereby greatly reducing the risk of feedback vibrations interfering with the quality of the sound.

First and second outer sleeves26and28of central portion22extend horizontally from opposite sides of sleeve or stand socket24, while corner members50aand50bare telescopic coupled in sleeves26and28. As best shown inFIG. 3, corner member50ais comprised of first inner sleeve54a, corner piece56a, and, aligned perpendicular to first inner sleeve54a, outer sleeve58a. Similarly, corner member50bincludes second inner sleeve54b, corner piece56b, and, aligned perpendicular to second inner sleeve54b, outer sleeve58b. SeeFIG. 3, which shows the inner sleeves extended and therefore visible. First and second inner sleeves54aand54bare sized to telescopingly couple within first and second outer sleeves26and28on central portion22, respectively. Threaded screw members74aand74bare adjustably secured in threaded apertures generally near the outer ends of sleeves26and28, respectively, for jam holding inner sleeve sections54aand54bin position with respect to outer sleeves26and28. Although parts54a,56a, and58a, and54b,56b, and58b, respectively, are labeled separately, preferably they are integrally made as a single cast or otherwise single fabricated piece. In addition, in each case, the threaded screw members are shown as having a wing nut on the exterior of an underneath threaded fastening to jam against a sliding section below to maintain the sections in position with respect to each other. However, the wing section could also be a hexagonal or other head fastener or bolt adapted to impinge against the adjacent member and jam fit the two together. Other suitable fasteners could also be used. Hand screw members76aand76bare threadably secured in apertures on the top face of corners members50aand50b, respectively, while screw members78aand78bare threadably secured in apertures near the outer ends of sleeves58aand58b, respectively, to maintain the inner sleeves54aand54bin the end pieces50aand50b. Ground engaging or foot members51aand51b, shown inFIGS. 4 and 5, are located on the bottom side of corner pieces56aand56bto actually support the front of the base20on an underlying support surface. Such foot members may be fixed on the bottoms of corner members50aand50bor may preferably be adjustable with respect to the corner members. Suitable adjustment may be obtained by thread attachment into the corner members or alternatively by the use of threaded type jam fittings, not shown, in the end of the corner pieces.

First and second leg members60aand60bare comprised of inner telescoping members62aand62bhaving connected on their outer ends members64aand64b. Inner telescoping members62aand62bare sized to extensibly or telescopingly couple with outer sleeves58aand58b, respectively. In addition, as shown inFIG. 6, adjustable screw-type foot members66aand66bare preferably threadably secured to the bottom side of end members64aand64bso that the pitch or angle of the vertical microphone support column can be adjusted. In most cases, support member30is preferably angled towards a musician playing an instrument so that the stand does not interfere with the playing of such instrument held in front of the musician. A further angle or pitch to the support column can be provided by increasing the height or depth of corner members56aand56b, as shown inFIG. 4, or by adding as shown an additional piece onto the bottom side of corner members56aand56b, as illustrated inFIG. 8. Such arrangement also provides room for heavier cables to pass underneath the support members of base20.

InFIG. 6, base20, seeFIGS. 1 and 2, is shown placed on a generally horizontal surface such as a stage or performing area and adjusted so that the telescoping members are surrounding a foot controller90of a type typically used in controlling an electric instrument such as an electric guitar. Base20is configured so that it surrounds the controller90on three sides, with central portion22, seeFIG. 2, extending along the entire front of the controller90, first corner member50abeing situated at the left front corner of the controller, first inner and outer leg members58aand60aextending along one side of the controller, second corner member50bbeing positioned at the right front corner of the controller, and second inner and outer leg members58band60bextending along the opposite side of the controller. After the base20is situated as desired, screw members74a–band78a–bare tightened so that the telescoping members are secured in such position. In addition, as indicated above, stand10can be easily angled slightly forward or to one side by adjusting the position of foot members51a–band66a–b, respectively. The foot members could also be used to compensate for an unevenness or slant in the stage floor or performing area, which might occur particularly in an older performing facility. In addition, as shown inFIGS. 7 and 8, foot members51aand51band66aand66braise the base20off the stage floor a sufficient distance so that electric wires92operating the effects controller90, music equipment, or other wires can be easily slipped between floor and the adjustable base members. As indicated above, the angle of the support member can also affect the ability of a musician to play his or her instrument, and can be adjusted accordingly using the foot members.

By using the telescoping base20of the present invention, vertical member30, partially shown as outer telescoping portion31inFIG. 6, supporting microphone40can be situated so that it is in close proximity to the foot controller and both are in close proximity to the musician while performing with the foot controller90centrally located. The musician therefore no longer has to strain or lean to one side, or otherwise compensate for the disparate positions of the microphone and foot controller. In addition, such arrangement more efficiently allocates or utilizes the available space, which is important particularly in a small or cramped performing area. Such an arrangement would not be possible using prior art base systems, which typically comprise a generally circular weighted base member, because it would be impossible to centrally position such base member so that it does not interfere with the placement of the controller.

FIG. 7is an isometric view of the stand10of the invention in use on a stage by a performer100playing an electric guitar. Vertical member30, seeFIG. 1, holds or supports a microphone40, while base20surrounds a controller90, which the performer is using to modulate or otherwise control the details of his performance. It is evident how the stand enables the performer to have both the microphone and the control stand conveniently before him. In addition, the stand is tilted forward so that there is room for the performer to play the guitar while also having the microphone close to his mouth.

FIG. 8is an isometric view of the stand10of the invention with the base20as shown inFIG. 4used to support a music stand110, rather than a microphone, of a musician playing an electric guitar. It is evident how the stand of the invention facilitates positioning of the music directly in front of the musician with the controls for the instrument also readily available to the musician's feet.

Other variations to the base20may also be provided. For example, it is envisioned that a rubber or other vibration damping layer on base20may be provided in addition to rubber coated stand socket24to further reduce any vibrations from the equipment from interfering with the microphone.FIG. 9is a side elevation view of another possible alternative embodiment of the invention wherein an extra stabilizing member98is provided extending generally opposite the direction of members58aand58bfrom the front side of stand socket24. Stabilizing member98is provided to eliminate the possibility that the base20might tip in such direction, although by angling the base generally forward using the foot members, such possibility has already been substantially lessened. There is always a possibility of the stand being accidentally impacted by movements of the performer or by other accidental forward impact, however, and the stabilizer member98guards against such possibility. Member98is preferably vertically pivotable so that after stand20has been situated as desired, member98is pivoted downwardly until it contacts the stage surface, similar to a pivoting door stop. Suitable pivoting may be attained in several different manners, including an adjustable hinge arrangement or the like, not shown. Stand socket24inFIG. 9has been slightly modified to accommodate placement of member98. Alternatively, rather than having a single centrally located support member98, a pair of such support members could be located on sleeves26and28or first and second corner members50aand50b.

FIGS. 10–15illustrate another alternative embodiment of the stand110having a slightly different base arrangement but wherein the base is also telescopingly adjustable so that it can be accommodated to or placed or situated around other equipment in a crowded stage area. In general, in such alternative embodiment of the base, instead of the base being formed from heavy tubular or cast sections of whatever composition, such base is formed from lighter plastic or aluminum sections, which sections may be square or rectangular or tubular in cross section. The heavy tubular or cast construction tends to be fairly steady upon a performing stage or platform because of its substantialness, but heavier and more difficult to transport. The alternative base is formed from lighter, thinner tubular sections that can be easily folded together and transported, but may be less steady and more easily toppled by accidental impact without being unduly unstable. The same principle of having the supporting arm extending upwardly at an angle from the base and having legs or base sections extended to the side and then rearwardly at the ends in the same direction as the inclination of the microphone or other support and having a space in the center into which foot control equipment may be centered is adhered to and the base sections are adjustable in two directions, i.e. forward and back and to the side by preferably a telescoping construction. Since the tubular sections are fairly light gauge, the device, while still fairly steady, is lighter and easy to transport. The central section may also be easily disassembled, if desired, for transportation.

FIG. 10is a side view of stand110which is comprised of base120, adjustable vertically extending support member130, and any suitable clip or holder for microphone140. As shown inFIGS. 11 and 12, base120includes two outwardly extending leg members132and134. Preferably, each leg member132and134is comprised of inner and outer telescoping sections132a–band134a–b, which are secured or held together by threaded jam members138. In addition, leg members132and134preferably have downwardly curved outer ends which form feet140. Leg members132and134are generally pivotable from a position shown inFIG. 11, where the legs are situated so that they are generally horizontal to the floor or stage surface while support member130is perpendicular to such leg members, to a position such as shown inFIG. 12, where the legs have been pivoted so that they are angled in relation to the floor, as indicated by the arrows. As is visible inFIG. 13, which is a top view of the base120, feet140are generally angled downwardly and then extend at right angles from leg members132and134so that a U-shaped arrangement is again formed. Extending outwardly from the ends of feet140are telescoping side or foot members142, which are adjustable in the same manner as in the previously described embodiments.

FIGS. 14 and 15show two slightly different arrangements for securing leg members132and134to microphone support member130. InFIG. 14, apertures154a,154b, and154care positioned on or near the ends of support member130and leg members132and134, respectively. Bolt150may be passed through each of such apertures and secured by nut156so that leg members are pivotable about the same point. InFIG. 15, leg members132and134have upper and lower generally horizontal offset portions158and160to which apertured end154aof support member130is pivotably secured. Either arrangement is an acceptable means for enabling the angle of leg members132and134to be easily adjusted. It will be understood that the intersecting sections containing fastening orifices will be oriented so that when connected together by suitable fastenings the base sections will extend to the side while the microphone or apparatus support section will extend upwardly with a slant in the same direction as the end of the legs of the base. As shown inFIG. 10, for example, support member130is preferably angled slightly forwardly as in the previous embodiments. In addition,FIG. 11shows that sufficient room is provided between the floor or stage area and leg members132and134for wiring or cables to be strung, making setup of electronic equipment even easier. Each of the embodiments shown accomplishes the same purpose of providing sufficient space directly in front of a performer for placement of equipment in addition to a microphone stand, thereby improving the ability of a musician to give an effective and enjoyable performance.

The inventor has now as the result of further development work realized that the invention has applicability to other uses by a musical artist than use merely as a microphone or music stand, the base of which, by surrounding a foot control apparatus, can provide better use of stage space. Stage space is of tremendous importance where such space is not particularly great. It has now become evident that the same principle according to which the microphone stand base has been constructed can be applied as well to effective use of the stand of the invention as a stand for holding instruments such as spare, or alternative, guitars or other stringed instruments, or, indeed, any instrument at all, plus, where desired smaller electronic control apparatus or other elements are used support of such equipment and further that the U-shaped base will fit very neatly about relatively large heavy equipment such as, for example, amplifier equipment which can fit nicely into the broadly U-shaped space within the open side of the adjustable and foldable base. For example, a musical artist may wish to use the stand as a microphone stand with the base compactly surrounding a foot control of various types, plus use another more or less identical stand having its base surrounding a loudspeaker plus use various trays or holders attached to a sturdy upstanding rod or a post extending upwardly from the base, whereby electronic control elements of the foot controller may be supported upon a rack clamped to the supporting rod or post. A loudspeaker may be placed in the space defined by the legs of the base, with the further support at a quick accessibility level upon the post of a spare instrument such as a guitar resting upon brackets clamped at a convenient height upon the support rod. The inventor has also designed special strengthened brackets for use on his support rods or posts connected to his base plus a smaller folded base attained by use of folding telescoping end pieces rather than fixed telescoping end pieces of earlier embodiments thereby adding increased convenience for transportation and/or storage. The inventor has also created a combined microphone stand and front balance leg for his adjustable musician's stand. Such further improvements and adaptations are shown in the following described drawing figures.

FIG. 16is an isometric view of an expanded foot pedal type control for controlling the sound and sound effects of a loudspeaker and sound effects system, surrounded by a longitudinally and laterally expandable base in accordance with the inventors principal embodiment shown inFIGS. 1 through 9, the embodiment of the microphone stand10ashown inFIG. 16, however, being significantly wider appropriate to the wider foot control. The foot control90ahas a series of foot pedals or buttons91which can be pressed to implement various electronic and sound modulation effects as known in the art, plus a longer rocking pedal92which will usually control the loudness of the system dependent upon how far the pedal is depressed as also well known in the art. The pedal92is designed to have a fair range of movement so that precise control of volume can be effected. The base20has fairly long tubular sections22aextending from the central holder or socket24aor across the central portion of the base20under the microphone socket24a. A pair of two legged L-shaped end pieces50aand50bas inFIG. 2complete the end of the base20and telescoping legs62aand62bextend from these. A microphone stand or post30aextends upwardly from the socket24a.FIG. 16, therefore, illustrates a stand basically similar to the stand shown inFIGS. 1 through 9extended about a wider foot control than shown inFIGS. 6 to 8. Such foot control may have its state of the art electronics either in the foot control itself or housed in a second controller which can be supported away from the floor upon a stand or table or the like where it is better separated from shocks and damage due to rough treatment of the foot controller by the instrumentalist or performer.

FIG. 17shows in isometric projection from the front above the parts of the stand10alaid out upon a surface after disassembly with the base20still extended, for illustration, about the foot control90a. In addition, several innovations are shown which are not shown inFIG. 16including a sturdy square tubular microphone stand30bwhich accommodates a telescoping central square tubular member30cfor expansibility with a cylindrical microphone support fitting30dattached to the top with a microphone40at the end. Such square tubular support30b, as will be explained, may do double duty as part of a support stand when used alternatively to support other elements of a musician's equipment including electronic control means plus extra instruments and the like. Also shown inFIG. 17are two instrument brackets93and94which can be fitted over the square tubular member30band clamped with screw clamps, plus a tray support95also provided with a square tubular clamp which fits over the support rod30band can be clamped by wing type threaded clamping means at any desired level. The small adjustable screw-type feet51aand51bcan be seen on the front (as used for support of a microphone) can be seen inFIG. 17on the base20at the bottoms of the two end pieces50aand50b. The further brackets93and94plus the tray support95may be used attached or clamped to the support rod30bwhen used as a utility or spare instrument support. SeeFIGS. 18 and 19.

FIG. 18is a front elevation andFIG. 19is a side elevation of the base and support of the invention when used in an alternative fashion, for example, inFIGS. 18 and 19, as a support for a spare instrument readily and almost instantaneously available to an instrumentalist from a rack in back of such instrumentalist. Racks or brackets93and94clamped onto the support rod30bare shown as well as tray-type support95also clamped on the support rod30b. The tray-type support95is shown with the electronic control case96for the foot control unit90asupported upon it. It will be understood, however, that the tray95could be used to support anything else desired, including even the lower end of one of the instruments. Ordinarily, however, the bracket93will be used to support the lower end of an instrument and the bracket94will be used to hold the upper end of the instrument. It may be readily noted inFIG. 19that each of the brackets93,94and tray95are provided with two threaded interlocks on their slide bases encompassing the support rod30b. Also the socket24, as inFIGS. 4 and 5, is provided with dual screw clamping means. Under the tray bracket95supporting the electronic control96and between the legs58aand58bis a large amplifier97through which the musician's program and musical accompaniment may be broadcast. The slide portion of the brackets93and94and tray95may have larger or smaller open slide portions depending on which portion of the support post they are to be clamped upon.

FIG. 20is an elevation of a further elaboration of the stand apparatus shown inFIG. 18in which not only is there a broad U-shaped base22surrounding an amplifier97with an electronic controller96accommodated on a tray95above it clamped to a square or rectangular post to which brackets93and94are also attached or adjustably clamped, but there are in addition two further support posts150secured to the outer legs58aand58b, preferably in a manner to be described. These two posts150are mounted in sockets151extending upwardly from the legs58aand58band as shown have double threaded clamp means152to clamp the posts150securely in them in a manner similar to that shown inFIGS. 1,4,5and19. These sockets151may be attached to the legs58aand58bin several manners, the easiest way being shown inFIG. 21described below.

FIG. 21shows the various pieces of the stand shown inFIG. 20laid out after or before assembly except for the end pieces or corner pieces50aand50b. There are shown two alternative central pieces or front legs26aand28aand26band28beach with a central socket24for receipt of the central post30bor30c. To these would be added a corner piece50aand50b, not shown, arranged with square tubing to receive the ends of the base legs26and28plus the end sections or legs62aand62b. The section152and153may be substituted for these end legs. Sections152and153both have an upstanding socket154and155which may accommodate posts150together with their brackets93and94for support of musical instruments such as guitars and the like,156and157. (SeeFIG. 20). A further arrangement for attaching the posts150is shown inFIGS. 29 and 30.

FIG. 22discloses a further improvement of the end legs58aand58bshown in previous figures. In this improved arrangement the end section, instead of being a rigid fitting50aand50bshown in previous figures with sleeves for telescopic connection to other sleeve or leg sections such end piece or leg sections, is formed from a section of square tubing58cand58dhinged to the sliding tubing of the sections54aand54bat hinges59aand59b. The telescoping ends62aand62bshown in previous figures continue to extend from the sections58cand58d. A spring catch or lock120engages with a detent121when the sections58cand58dare swung out perpendicular to the sections54aand54bwhen in use. The hinged sections may be swung back, however, into storage position as indicated by dashed line123at which time they lie compactly parallel to the sections54aand54bas shown inFIG. 22on the right of the drawing, creating a more compact package for storage.FIG. 22Ais an enlarged view of the spring catch120and the detent121on the end of telescoping sections54aand54b.

The present inventor has also realized that the lower portion of center or support post30of the stand of the invention may be substituted for the forward leg90shown inFIG. 9for balance. This is accomplished as shown inFIGS. 23 and 24where it is shown that the socket24acan be attached to the base20on the side of the front cross members26and28and be provided with an open bottom so that the post30itself can be extended downwardly to contact the stage as a further balancing leg as well as a support post. In this arrangement the socket24acan be provided with a single or double screw clamping arrangement, particularly, since considerable of its weight will be supported by the performing stage surface itself.

The telescoping members of the stand of the invention can in each case be interlocked in operating position either by a screw-threaded clamping arrangement particularly as shown as a generality inFIG. 25for either rectangular or cylindrical members or by a common twist friction lock when used on cylindrical members. Such twist friction locks are very common, for example, on microphone stands. SeeFIGS. 25 and 26whereFIG. 25indicates diagrammatically the use of a screw-type interlock to lock two sliding or telescoping members together, andFIG. 26illustrates diagrammatically an equivalent twist friction lock for the same purpose, but usually confined to use on a cylindrical member. The arrows indicate the sliding relationship between the members when unlocked as well as the twisting movement of the lock section.

FIG. 27is an isometric view of one of the applicant's sliding brackets with double screw interlock means. If the post upon which it was to be mounted was cylindrical the collar or sleeve would be preferably cylindrical as well, but the double screw threaded interlock would remain basically the same.

FIG. 29shows a connector158having a lower tubular section which may slide over one of the end legs58aor58band interlock therewith by means of threaded members159and160. The end post150may then be inserted into the socket24a. A screw-threaded foot161may be screwed into the bottom of the fitting or connector158.FIG. 29shows the fitting158connected to or between the legs50aand60aand/or50band60b.

The inventors modification of the basic stand of the invention so it can by the use of various additional accessories plus the use of improved refinements such as folding end legs on the base, arrangement of the upper socket on the front side of the base so it can serve double duty as a balancing leg and use of double screw locked brackets to hold accessory trays and brackets to the supporting brackets has substantially increased the utility of the invention.

In addition to the improvements and modifications described above, through trial and error the present inventor has now also made several further improvements to the present invention that increase its overall functionality, particularly when used for holding heavy equipment such as an amplifier, and providing a more compact arrangement for storage and carrying of the stand.

FIGS. 30 and 31are top and side views of another preferred embodiment of the adjustable stand base10cof the invention. Such embodiment is similar to the embodiments shown inFIGS. 1–9above, except in the present embodiment the adjustable foot members51aand51binFIGS. 4 and 5, rather than being attached to the bottom sides of corner pieces56aand56bof corner members50aand50b, are attached in housings on the front side of such corner pieces. More particularly, inFIGS. 30 and 31, threaded housings306and307are shown permanently secured such as by welding to the front side walls of corner pieces56aand56b, respectively. Housings306and307may be in the form of long threaded nut members into which foot members51aand51bare threadably movable to facilitate adjustment of the height or angle of stand. Similarly, foot members66aand66b, shown inFIG. 6attached to the underside of end members64aand64bof telescoping members60aand60b, have been moved to the rear side surface of such members64aand64b, where threaded housings308and309, which may also be long threaded nut members, are secured preferably by welding.

Several advantages result from positioning foot members51aand51bin housings on the front side of corner pieces56aand56b, and positioning foot members66aand66bin housings on the rear surface of members64aand64b. First, such arrangement gives the stand additional support or stability by widening its base, which makes the stand much less likely to tip in either a forward or rearward direction if it is bumped during a performance, which occurs rather frequently. In addition, as shown in the FIGS. below, such arrangement also facilitates folding or storing of the stand in a substantially more compact configuration for transport to and from a performance or storage when it is not in use. To allow for such compact storage arrangement, another modification must be made from the previously described embodiments in that the sides or ends310and311of corner pieces56aand56bof corner members50aand50bare cut away or removed, creating opening312in such members. With that the ends310and311of corner pieces56aand56bnow being open, and since the inner ends of telescoping members54aand54bof tubular corner members50aand50bare also open, a through-aperture is created in which telescoping microphone support30may be slipped and secured for storage.

The method of storing stand10ccompactly will now be described with particular reference toFIG. 32. First, as shown by the dotted line315inFIG. 31, when it is desired to store stand10c, the telescoping ends54aand54b(seeFIG. 3) of corner members50aand50bare removed from first and second outer sleeves26and28of central portion22, respectively, rotated ninety degrees in a counterclockwise direction, and then reinserted into such outer sleeves. Such arrangement is preferred because as a result, as shown inFIG. 32, the upwardly protruding stand socket24and outwardly extending sleeves58aand58bof corner members50aand50bare now in the same plane, which results in a substantially more compact storage arrangement. Next, telescoping microphone support member30having inner and outer telescoping sections is moved to an unextended position secured, and then is pushed in aperture312in one of the sides or ends310or311of corner pieces56aand56buntil its end extends out the other side or end310or311, as shown inFIG. 32. Once inserted, threaded jam-type screw members74aand74bmay be tightened to secure corner members50aand50band microphone support member30in such position. To facilitate transport or carrying of the stand10c, an adjustable carrying or shoulder strap320is provided. Strap320includes a flexible strap section321, and a pair of metal clip sections322and323on the ends of said strap section321. Each metal clip section322and323has a threaded screw324and325connected thereto which can be inserted and secured in the top ends of threaded housings306and307, respectively. Thus, as is evident fromFIG. 34, the stand10cis now in a complete storage configuration and may be easily carried to and from a performance by shoulder strap320. It should be evident that stand10cwhen stored in such manner takes up much less room and is significantly easier to carry and store than typical prior art microphone stands, while setup is still quick and easy.

FIGS. 33–41illustrate another preferred embodiment of the invention that is most similar to the arrangement shown inFIGS. 17–19above, but with further modifications made to the tray support95, and in addition arranged so that it is also capable of being broken down into a compact storage configuration similar to stand10cshown with reference toFIGS. 30–32. In particular, effects tray95has been modified so that it includes a pair of legs which enable such tray to be used to support large, heavy equipment such as an amplifier or speaker without fear of the stand collapsing or tipping over. As will also be shown, use of the tray to support an amplifier or speaker also enables such speaker or amplifier to be positioned at a upward angle so that the sound is directed upwardly rather than directly towards the musician.

Referring now toFIG. 33, illustrated there is an isometric view of the modified instrument and equipment stand10din an upright configuration ready for use, including the longitudinally and laterally expandable base in accordance with embodiment10cshown inFIGS. 30–32. More particularly, the base20has fairly long tubular sections26and28extending from the central portion of the base20under the microphone socket24, and with L-shaped end or corner members50aand50bcompleting the end of the base20and telescoping legs62aand62bextending from these. As in embodiment10c, to accommodate compact storage of the device as well as to improve the stability of the device, an aperture312is provided in the sides or ends310and311of corner pieces56aand56b, and foot members51aand51bare attached in threaded housings306and307on corner pieces56aand56b.

Microphone stand or post30bof a sturdy square tubular type such as shown inFIG. 17extends upwardly from the socket24a, such stand accommodating a telescoping central square tubular member for expansibility. Attached to stand30bare two instrument brackets93and94which are fitted over the square tubular member30band clamped with screw clamps. In addition, tray support95a, also provided with a square tubular clamp which fits over the support rod30b, is clamped to the support rod by wing type threaded clamping means at a desired level. Similar to the arrangement shown inFIGS. 18 and 19, as shown inFIG. 34, brackets93and94are used to support an instrument such as an electric or acoustic guitar G when such instrument is not in use. In addition, rather than placing amplifier A on the ground as inFIG. 18, such amplifier is placed on tray support95a. Note that such amplifier A could be placed on tray support95aso that it is upright or facing directly forwardly, or as shown inFIG. 34, it may leaned so that the front is pointed upwardly.

FIG. 35shows in isometric projection from the front above the parts of the stand10dlaid out upon a surface after disassembly. Included is base20having center section22comprised of tubular sections26and28which meet at a central point below socket24, L-shaped corner members50aand50b, telescoping or extensible leg members60aand60b, foot members51a–band66a–b, and screw clamps74a–band78a–b. Also shown separated are support rod sections31and32, as well as instrument supports93and94, and tray support95a. Tray support95ais different from tray support95shown inFIG. 17in that it includes tubular side members350and351for attachment of L-shaped support members354and356, respectively. Each L-shaped support member354and356is comprised of an inner telescoping member358, a leg member360situated substantially a right angle from telescoping member358, and a stop362welded to the outer end of telescoping member358. As explained below, stops362act as a front lip on tray support95ato prevent items placed on the tray support from slipping off. Also provided are screw pins364for locking members358at a particular telescoping position. The addition of support members354and356substantially increase the versatility of tray support95aso that it can be used to support larger items such as large amplifiers and speakers without fear of the stand10ctipping or such equipment falling off the front of the tray support. Finally, also shown inFIG. 35as in the embodiment shown inFIGS. 30–32is carrying or shoulder strap320including a flexible strap section321and a pair of metal clip sections322and323on the ends of said strap section321each having an aperture sized so that a screw324and325can be inserted in such aperture and threadably secured in the upper end of threaded housings306and307, respectively on corner members50aand50b, respectively.

FIG. 36illustrates one mode of use of tray support95a, wherein it is used to support a relatively small sized amplifier A completely off the ground as well as a guitar G. Note inFIG. 36that L-shaped support members354and356are each shown in a storage position, as they are not required to be used due to the small size of amplifier A. InFIG. 34, however, another mode of use of stand10d, and in particular tray support95a, is illustrated, wherein the tray support is used to support a large sized amplifier or speaker, as well as a guitar. InFIG. 34, tray support95ais moved down lower on rod section31, such that leg members360of L-shape support member354and356are in contact with the stage or floor surface. To move tray support95ainto such position, the threaded pins securing tray95ato rod section31are loosened and the tray support is moved to the appropriate height, wherein such pins are again tightened. Pins364holding L-shaped support members354and356to tray95a, assuming they are originally positioned in a storage position as shown inFIG. 36with the leg members360facing inwardly towards one another, are loosened and then telescoping legs358are completely removed from tubular side members350and351, respectively. L-support member354is then rotated ninety degrees in a clockwise direction so that leg member360is touching the stage or floor, and then telescoping member358is reinserted into tubular side member351and tightened. Similarly, after L-support member356is completely removed from tray support95a, it is rotated ninety degrees in a counterclockwise direction so that its leg member360is also in contact with the floor surface, after which telescoping member358is reinserted into side member352and tightened. Then, as shown inFIG. 34, large amplifier or speaker A as well as guitar G can be easily supported on stand10dwith little fear of tipping or collapsing, as the additional support member354and356will stabilize the entire stand by supporting much of the weight of the amplifier or speaker A and in addition giving the stand a wider base.

While stand10dincluding instrument supports93and94and tray support95ahaving additional leg members354and356result in a particularly sturdy and useful instrument and equipment support apparatus, as with the microphone stand shown inFIGS. 30–32, the inventor has also found that the stand10dincluding such supports can also be broken down and arranged in a relatively small sized and easy to carry and store package.FIG. 35illustrates all of the various parts of the stand10din a broken down configuration, whileFIG. 37illustrates the stand10dcompacted into two small packages, andFIG. 38illustrates stand10dcompacted into a single package.

The method of storing the base20and support rod30portions of stand10dare essentially the same as described above with reference to stand10cshown inFIGS. 30–32. First, the telescoping ends54aand54bof corner members50aand50bare rotated ninety degrees in a counterclockwise direction with respect to the first and second outer sleeves26and28of central portion22, and then are reinserted into such outer sleeves, and threaded jam-type screw members74aand74bare tightened to secure corner members50aand50bin such position. As a result, the upwardly protruding stand socket24and outwardly extending sleeves58aand58bof corner members50aand50bare now in the same plane and therefore take up less overall storage space. Inner and outer telescoping microphone support member sections31and32are then unextended and slipped through one of the sides or ends310or311of corner pieces56aand56bso that the opposite end protrudes out the other side or end310or311. As a result, the entire microphone stand10cmay be easily broken down and stored in such compact configuration. Then, carrying or shoulder strap320(shown inFIG. 38) including flexible strap section321metal clip sections322and323on the ends of said strap section321is attached through apertures in each clip section322and323to threaded housings306and307by screws324and325, respectively.

Next, instrument supports93and94and tray support95aare secured together in a neat package, with the same screw clips that are used to secure the instrument supports to support31now being used to secure the supports to tray support95a, also shown inFIGS. 37 and 38. Support93is secured so that it is basically flush against the underside of tray support95a, while support94is secured so that it is flush with the top surface of tray support95a, with the screw clips being secured in notches in crosspieces that comprise part of the framework or structure of tray support95a. Telescoping portions358of L-shaped tray support members354and356are secured in tubular side members351with leg members360facing inwardly toward one another rather than downwardly, and pins364are again tightened. As indicated above, instrument support bracket94is then laid on top of tray support95aas shown inFIG. 37, with the pins of double screw interlock means used to secure connector158at a vertical position on support rod30now being used to secure the connector158to tray95awith such pins situated in cutout sections in cross bar370of the tray support95a. The pins are then tightened to secure bracket93in place. Similarly, instrument bracket94, which has a single pin in connector158, is laid flat on the opposite side of tray support95aand then such pin is tightened in a cutout section of cross bar378.

Once the combined stand base and rod sections380and instrument and equipment support sections382of the device have been arranged as just described, as shown inFIG. 38, such sections may then be secured together so that the stand10dwith the equipment holding supports is secured in a single compact package. To accomplish this, the combined instrument and support section382is first rotated one hundred eighty degrees from its orientation inFIG. 37, and is laid on top of stand base and rod sections380. Prior to this, however, pins70and72on socket24are removed, so that the combined section382can lie flat on combined section380. Tray support95aincludes a central bar384having apertures385and386(seeFIG. 37), which are spaced apart so that they can be aligned with the apertures in socket24. This is done, and then pins70and72are reinserted through apertures385and386in bar384and then into socket24and tightened. This will secure the sections380and382tightly together so that they can be carried and stored as a single package.