Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1977-1983
Title: The Innovative Mind of Robert S. Hill
Introduction
Robert S. Hill, an accomplished inventor based in Holly Springs, MS, has made significant contributions to the field of musical instrument design. With a portfolio that includes five patents, his innovative approaches have enabled enhancements in piano craftsmanship, particularly in soundboard construction.
Latest Patents
One of Hill's notable inventions is the "Piano soundboard and method of making same." This innovative design features a soundboard constructed from three plies of wood that are meticulously bonded together. The front and back plies are of substantially equal thickness, while the center ply boasts a greater thickness than the sum of the two outer plies. This center ply comprises several elongate boards, each exhibiting a preselected curvature from side-to-side. These boards are bonded edge-to-edge in the same direction, resulting in a composite soundboard with a continuous curvature—concave on one side and convex on the other. This carefully designed structure imparts a distinctive quality to the assembled, three-ply soundboard, enhancing the overall sound of the piano.
Career Highlights
Robert S. Hill’s career has been notably associated with the Wurlitzer Company, a name well-recognized in the realm of musical instruments. His innovations have not only advanced the technical aspects of piano design but have also reflected the artistic demands of musicians. Over his career, Hill's work has earned him recognition within the acoustic engineering community.
Collaborations
Throughout his professional journey, Hill has had the opportunity to collaborate with prominent colleagues such as Stanley A. Grajek and George S. Klaiber. Their combined expertise and shared vision in musical instrument innovation have likely contributed to the advancements observed in Hill's patent portfolio.
Conclusion
In essence, Robert S. Hill serves as an exemplary figure in the field of musical instrument innovation. His contributions towards enhancing the piano soundboard design, along with his professional associations and collaborations, showcase the significant impact that innovative minds like his can have on the world of music. The continued evolution of instrument design underscores the importance of creativity and technical expertise in the industry.