New Slug Batter Badge and Bass Drum Beater Patent
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| Batter Badge |
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| Power Head Bass Drum Beater |
January 1, 1998
Slug just announced a new member to its line of Batter Badge impact pads
for acoustic drums. The BB-STR measures 7" in diameter, and provides a large
"sweet spot" ideal for snare drums. This clear pad has a list price of $9.95
(US), and will be available this summer.
Slug's line of Batter Badge impact pads are designed to protect drumheads
from dings, dents, and dimples. The radially extending tendril arms of the
Batter Badge allow the drumhead to flex, and prevent denting by absorbing
impact over a larger surface area. They are made of tough, wear resistant
polycarbonate film, and are easy to apply with a perminant adhesive backing.
Slug Percussion Products has been awarded a second patent from the United
States Patent Office, for its Power Head foot pedal beater. New patented
features include the beater head shape and tapered shaft.
The first patent award was for the beater's unique Unitary-Axle design
(which makes the beater head free-floating, rotatable without tools, and
self-adjusting). Included in the first patent is the assembly of the beater,
using two snap-fitting caps of a singular hermaphroditic design, holding
the head and shaft together, and allowing the Unitary-Axle to function.
Product development director, Eric Behrenfeld comments, "This second patent
focuses on the unique shape of the beater head and its tapered shaft design.
The head shape produces two distinct sounds and playing feels. The
'slotted-hammer-head' design prevents any 'slap' or suction effect when
impacting the drumhead. The tapered shaft increases impact force because
it has more top-end weight, and is stronger than any normal rod stock
commonly found on other beaters. "
Slug now plans on incorporating the patented tapered shaft into new bass
drum beater head shapes that the company is developing. For more information, see the Slug website at www.slugdrums.com. | 
