KR102359087B1 - Boundary projectile and system for using the same - Google Patents

Abstract

A projectile deployment system includes a strapping projectile comprising a pair of pellets and a tether connected to the pellets. The projectile casing includes a pair of sockets, each socket sized to carry one of the pair of pellets and a selectively activatable pressure source carried by the projectile casing. The pressure source may eject the restraint projectile from the projectile casing toward the subject. A launcher may carry an activator operable to activate the pressure source to eject the restraint projectile from the projectile casing toward a subject. The projectile casing may be detachably connected to the launcher so that the projectile casing can be removed from the launcher after the projectile casing is ejected from the projectile casing.

Description

Boundary projectile and system for using the same

claim priority

Priority is claimed to U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/081,440, filed March 25, 2016, and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/399,537, filed January 5, 2017, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates generally to non-lethal ranged weapon systems that aid in interfering or deterring a hostile or fleeing person of interest.

Related technologies

For some time, it has already been recognized that it is advantageous for police and military personnel to use weapons and devices other than firearms to handle hostile situations. Firearms are a necessary tool for law enforcement, but sometimes provide an undue level of power. In many cases, law enforcement agents may wish to handle the situation without resorting to the use of a firearm. However, it is generally acknowledged that engaging in hand-to-hand combat is not a desirable option.

For at least the above reasons, ranged engagement devices such as the Taser™ have been developed to provide an alternative. Although the electrical muscle splitting (“EMD”) weapon has been used with some success, the debate continues as to whether the device is as safe as it is claimed or whether it is an appropriate level of force in many situations. Other ranged engagement solutions, such as mace or pepper spray, are very limited in scope and are often criticized for the pain they cause to subjects and their potential to affect police or bystanders.

Therefore, designers continue to find non-lethal solutions that can be effectively used by police or law enforcement agencies, especially to deter escaping subjects.

According to a feature of the present invention, there is provided a projectile deployment system comprising a binding projectile comprising a pair of pellets and a tether connected to the pellets. The projectile casing includes a pair of sockets, each socket sized to carry one of the pair of pellets and a selectively activatable pressure source carried by the projectile casing. The pressure source may eject the restraint projectile from the projectile casing toward the subject. A launcher may carry an activator operable to activate the pressure source to eject the restraint projectile from the projectile casing toward a subject. The projectile casing may be detachably connected to the launcher so that the projectile casing can be removed from the launcher after the projectile casing is ejected from the projectile casing.

According to another feature, there is provided a projectile deployment system comprising a binding projectile comprising a pair of pellets and a tether connected to the pellets. The projectile casing includes a pair of sockets, each socket sized to carry one of the pair of pellets. The socket pairs are angled to each other so that the pellets move apart as they exit the projectile casing, such that at least a portion of one of the sockets overlaps a portion of the other of the sockets. A launcher carries the projectile casing and a pressure source is carried by the launcher or projectile casing and can be selectively activated. The pressure source may eject the restraint projectile from the projectile casing toward the subject. The projectile casing may be detachably connected to the launcher such that the projectile casing is detached from the launcher after the tying projectile is discharged from the projectile casing.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a strapping projectile for use in a projectile deployment system, the strapping projectile comprising a pair of pellets and a flexible tether connecting the pellets. At least one connecting hook may be connected to one or both of the pair of pellets or the flexible tether, the connecting hook operative to engage clothing worn by a subject connected to the restraint projectile and for the restraint around the subject. keep the projectile

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a projectile deployment system comprising a launcher and a binding projectile comprising a pair of pellets and a tether connected to the pellets. A projectile casing is coupled to the launcher and includes a pair of sockets, each socket carrying one of the pellets. A pressure source is carried by the launcher and the projectile casing and can be selectively activated. The pressure source ejects the restraint projectile from the projectile casing. The socket is oriented within the projectile casing so that the pellets move towards different vertical trajectories as they exit the projectile casing.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a strapping projectile for use in a projectile deployment system, the strapping projectile comprising a pair of pellets and a flexible tether connecting the pellets. At least one connection hook is coupled to one or both of the pair of pellets or the flexible tether, the connection hook operative to engage clothing worn by a subject connected to the strapping projectile and configured to be operative to engage the strapping projectile around the subject. to keep

Further features and advantages of the present invention are understood from the detailed description, which sets forth the features of the present invention by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The following drawings show exemplary embodiments for carrying out the present invention. Like reference numerals refer to like parts in different drawings or embodiments of the present invention.

1 is a top, bottom, front, or rear view of a strapping projectile extending substantially full length in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 2A is a side view of the pellet and a portion of the tether of the projectile of FIG. 1; FIG.
Fig. 2B is an end view of the pellet of Fig. 2A;
Fig. 3A is a plan view showing the subject from which the restraint projectile is fired just before the subject and the restraint projectile are connected;
FIG. 3B is a plan view of the subject and projectile of FIG. 3A immediately after the strapping projectile is engaged with the subject;
4 is a front elevational view of a portion of a subject in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention just before the strapping projectile is engaged with the subject's leg.
5 is a front elevational view of a strapping projectile according to an embodiment of the present invention with a pellet pulling the tether into a projected state;
Fig. 6 is a side view of a portion of a strapping projectile according to another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the projectile deployment system of the present invention, showing an exploded state when the projectile casing is installed in or removed from the projectile;
Fig. 8 is a front view showing the projectile casing of Fig. 7;
Fig. 9 is a rear view showing the projectile casing of Fig. 7;
Fig. 10 is a plan view in partial section of the projectile casing of Fig. 7;
Fig. 11 is a side view in partial cross-section of the projectile casing of Fig. 7;
Fig. 12 is another side view in partial cross-section of the projectile casing of Fig. 7;
Fig. 13 is a side view in partial cross-section of the launcher of Fig. 7 and showing the various parts separated to reveal the internal parts of the projectile;
14 is a side view showing a cross-section of a projectile for strapping according to an embodiment of the present invention;
15 is a cross-sectional side view of a hook portion of a pellet according to an embodiment of the present invention;
16 is a side view in cross section of a hook portion of a pellet according to an embodiment of the present invention;
17 is an end view of a pellet according to an embodiment of the present invention;
18 is an end view of another pellet according to an embodiment of the present invention.
19 is a side elevational view of a portion of a strapping projectile according to another embodiment of the present invention;
20 is a side elevational view of a portion of a strapping projectile according to another embodiment of the present invention;
21 is a side elevational view of a portion of a strapping projectile according to another embodiment of the present invention;
22 is a side view in partial cross-section of a portion of a restraint projectile according to another embodiment of the present invention;
23 is a side view of a portion of a strapping projectile according to another embodiment of the present invention;
24 is an end view of an exemplary projectile casing in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
25 is a side view of the exemplary projectile casing of FIG. 24;

Reference is now made to the exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings, and specific terminology is used herein to describe the embodiments. Nevertheless, it will be understood that there is no intention to limit the scope of the present invention. Variations and further modifications of the features of the invention described herein, and further adaptations of the principles of the invention described herein and additional applications of the principles of the invention that can be made by those skilled in the art with knowledge of the disclosure, are within the scope of the invention.

Justice

As used herein, the singular forms "a" and "the" may include plural subjects unless the context dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a pellet” may include one or more pellets, depending on the context.

As used herein, the term "weapon blank" or "blank cartridge" refers to an empty cartridge of the prior art that may be used with firearms. The empty cartridge contains gunpowder but no bullets or ammunition. Thus, it can be ejected to generate only high-speed pressure waves without ammunition or bullets.

As used herein, “substantially” refers to the complete or near-complete degree or magnitude of an action, characteristic, characteristic, state, structure, item, or result. As any example, a “substantially” enclosed object is an object that is completely enclosed or nearly completely enclosed. Exact tolerances that deviate from absolute perfection may in some cases depend on the particular situation. In general, however, the approximation of perfection will have the same result as if absolute total perfection was obtained. "Substantially" applies equally when used in a negative sense to denote a complete or near complete lack of a characteristic, characteristic, state, structure, item, or result. As another optional example, a composition that is "substantially free" of an ingredient or ingredient may actually include such ingredient so long as there is no measurable effect as a result.

As used herein, “about” is used to provide flexibility with respect to the final value of a numerical range by providing that a given value may be “slightly above” or “slightly below” the final value.

Directional terminology may sometimes be used herein to describe and claim various elements of the invention. The term includes, without limitation, “up”, “down”, “horizontal”, “vertical” and the like. These terms are generally not intended to be limiting, but are used to most clearly describe and claim the various features of the invention. Where such terms have some limitations, they should be limited to usages commonly known and understood by one of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure.

As used herein, a plurality of items, components, structural elements, and/or materials may be presented in a common listing for convenience. However, the above list should be construed as if each part of the list was identified as a separate and unique part. Accordingly, no individual part of the above list should be construed as being substantially identical to another part of the same list based solely on its representation in a common group, unless indicated to the contrary.

Numerical data may be expressed or presented herein in range form. These range forms are used merely for convenience and brevity, and are flexible to include not only the numerical values expressly stated as limits of the range, but also all individual numerical values or subranges subsumed within such ranges as if each numerical range and subrange were expressly recited. can be interpreted as By way of example, a numerical range of “from about 1 to about 5” is to be construed to include express recitation of from about 1 to about 5 as well as individual values within the indicated range and subranges within that range. Accordingly, the numerical ranges above include 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, respectively, as well as individual values such as 2, 3, 4 and subranges such as 1 - 3, 2 - 4 and 3 - 5 and the like.

The above principle applies to ranges representing only one numerical value as the minimum or maximum value. Furthermore, the above interpretation should apply regardless of the scope or characteristics of the scope described.

invent

The present technology relates generally to non-lethal weapon systems, referred to as capture or entanglement systems, that can be effectively used to impede the progress or detain an aggressive or fleeing subject. A device according to the present technology can be used to allow a subject to walk, drive or otherwise use a lethal or harmful force when a law enforcement agency, security officer, or military member wishes to detain the subject, but does not want to engage in close proximity hand-to-hand combat or use lethal or harmful force. It can be advantageously used to temporarily impede the use of the arm. The technique provides the ability to temporarily bind or restrain a subject's arm or leg to the extent that it makes it difficult for the subject to continue moving normally.

Although the present technique may be directed at any part of the subject's body, the description below will primarily focus on the use of the technique to temporarily tie or strap the subject's legs. However, it should be understood that the present technology is not limited to the above applications. In some cases, you can target parts of the subject's body, such as arms and legs.

1-5 , an entangling projectile 12 provided by the present technology can be deployed towards a subject's leg such that the projectile wraps around the subject's leg. The projectile includes at least one flexible tether 16 and at least two pellets 14 connected together by a tether. By engaging the subject with a stationary projectile, the subject temporarily becomes partially or fully functional, which limits their ability to avoid or escape. A stationary projectile of the present technology is fired towards a subject ( 100 in FIGS. 3A-4 ) by a launch device. In addition to the launchpads described herein, many examples of suitable launchers are provided by way of example in the original application for reference, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/081,440, filed March 25, 2016, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. . The launcher may include an energy source such as compressed gas, explosives/combustibles, mechanical springs, or the like.

Generally speaking, launchers for use with current stationary projectiles fire the projectile towards the subject 100 at a relatively high velocity. Typically, a projectile can be deployed towards a subject from a distance of about 6 feet to about 30 feet (1.8 to 9.1 meters), and from about 0.0075 to 0.0375 seconds (traveling at about 800 feet per second (243.8 m/s)) Associates the substance with the subject. After being deployed from the projectile, the stationary projectile wraps around the subject's legs two to three times or more, temporarily immobilizing the subject effectively. Because stationary projectiles can be fired from a certain distance, law enforcement personnel can effectively and safely temporarily deter, disable, or obstruct a subject while maintaining a safe distance from the subject.

The operation of the strapping projectile is shown generally in FIG. 1 . After being emitted by the projectile, the projectile 12 moves towards the subject 100 . As the projectile moves towards the subject, the pellets 14 move away from each other, resulting in the tether 16 being substantially pulled and taught between the two pellets. Once the projectile engages the subject (in the example shown in FIG. 4 the subject's legs are gripped), the pellets and tether wrap around the subject, thereby temporarily binding and/or disabling the subject.

Various combinations of different pellets and tethers can be used in the present technology. 1 to 4 , the projectile 12 has two general pellets 14 connected by one tether 16 . More than two pellets may be used, although the examples shown herein include only two. In some embodiments, the present invention is limited to two and only two pellets connected by a single tether. In one aspect, the invention consists essentially of two pellets and one tether. It has been found that limiting the number of pellets to two results in a more effective deployment system. The risk of tangling of the tethers 16 is reduced and the pellets spread apart from each other more clearly and quickly after being deployed from the launcher. This results in a more consistent trajectory after being deployed. This arrangement allows the projectile to be more accurately aimed at the subject by proper launcher configuration.

5 shows another feature of the projectile 12 for strapping. As noted above, the projectile includes two pellets 14 coupled to opposite ends of a tether 16 . In this embodiment, two and only two pellets are provided and joined by only one tether 16 . It has been found advantageous in that if only two pellets are used, a much cleaner and more accurate projectile can be aimed at the subject and the projectile can more effectively capture the subject. Pellets 14 can exert the same opposing force shown by the example with direction indicators 102 , 104 on tether 16 . In this way, the tethers are pulled into their intended linear structure by the force of the pellets moving away from each other.

The tether 16 may not include additional structures that extend from the tether and may include additional structures coupled to the tether. In this way, the pellets 14 can pull the tether into a straight, uninterrupted, linear structure as shown. The tether and pellet may occupy a substantially common plane 106 in the structure immediately prior to contact with the subject. As shown, the plane 106 is angularly offset from the “true” horizontal 108 as the pellets are generally positioned at different heights prior to contact with the subject (discussed in detail below). By omitting additional pellets or tethers or other external structures, the techniques of the present invention can provide a restraint projectile that engages a subject with a much higher rate of restraint success.

1 shows a projectile 12 extending to its full length “L0”. In one embodiment, the overall length of the tether is much greater than the size (LP) of the pellet. The overall length may be at least 7 feet (2.14 meters). The pellets may have a length “LP” on the order of one inch (2.54 cm) and a diameter “DP” on the order of three-eighths (0.95 cm) of an inch. Although different embodiments of the above technique may vary, it is generally desirable to keep the pellets at a relatively small size to limit the overall size requirements of the projectile casing that houses the pellets before being deployed and to reduce the impact when the pellets collide with a subject. do. In this way, the technology can be provided for lightweight, hand-held devices.

The relationship of pellet diameter, weight, and length to tether length/weight can significantly affect the performance of a strapping projectile. About 7 feet (2.13 m) with a weight of about 1 gram combined with a tether and about 0.330 inches (0.84 cm) in diameter, about 1-1.5 inches (2.54-3.81 cm) long and about 5-6 grams in weight Pellets with an effective strapping projectile. The following casing is designed to effectively deliver a strapping projectile with a high degree of precision and reliability.

The tether 16 may be formed from a variety of materials. According to one feature, the tether is formed from a conventional nylon material. A waxed cord may also be used as the wax facilitates wrapping and/or coiling the tether so that it fits properly and remains within the tether compartment. In one embodiment, the tether may be formed of an elastic material.

In one example, the tether is made of a Kevlar™ cord and has a thickness of about 0.1 mm. Kevlar tethers have been found to work well for a number of reasons. Kevlar tethers are very strong and do not break as easily as other cords. Additionally, because Kevlar material does not have a "wick" adhesive like other materials, it minimizes the drying/cure time of the adhesive and reduces the tendency of the cord to stiffen with the cured adhesive forming a wick along the cord stretch. make it

6 shows a portion of one exemplary strapping projectile 12c in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the above example, a pellet 14c is provided comprising various features that more accurately and effectively bind the subject. A portion of the tether 16 extends from an access hole 166b generally formed in or through the shank of the pellet 14c. The tether may be secured to the shank using adhesive applied through the access hole 166b. The hook assembly 180 may be attached over the shank of the pellet, and an adhesive may be applied through the access hole 166a to be secured to the shank. Access holes 166a, 166b may be used that operate much like rosettes to allow hook structures or pellets to be bonded to the tether or to one another. 6 , the hook assembly 180 may be arranged in a desired position, and a small amount of adhesive or other attachment material may be applied through the access hole 166a to mount the hook assembly in place. have. The access hole 166b can be easily used in the same manner as for mounting the pellet 14c to the tether 16 .

Although the present projectile can be used with a variety of launchers, FIGS. 7-13 show one exemplary system that can be used to effectively direct a strapping projectile at a subject. As shown in the exploded view of FIG. 7 , projectile deployment system 40 generally includes a strapping projectile including a pair of pellets 14a , 14b and a tether 16 connecting the pellets (other components being included). For the sake of clarity, the tether is omitted from the above figures). A projectile casing 44 is provided, which may include a pair of sockets 30a, 30b (see, eg, FIGS. 8 , 10 and 11 ). Each socket may be sized and shaped to carry one pellet of a pellet pair. In the example shown socket 30a carries pellets 14a and socket 30b carries pellets 14b.

The projectile casing 44 may include a selectively activatable pressure source 50 ( FIGS. 9-12 ). The pressure source may be carried by the projectile casing independently of the launch pad or other components of the system. The pressure source may eject a restraint projectile toward the subject 100 from the projectile casing. The system may also include a launch pad 42 capable of carrying an activator operative to activate a pressure source to release a strapping projectile from the projectile casing toward the subject. Examples of activator 54 are described below with respect to FIG. 13 .

The projectile casing 44 is removably coupled with the launcher 42 so that the projectile casing can be removed from the launcher after ejecting the tying projectile 12 from the projectile casing. In this way, the present technology provides a deployment system comprising two separate and distinct parts, a launcher 42 and a projectile casing 44 . In one embodiment, the pellets 14a , 14b and the tether 16 are carried by the projectile casing as the pressure source 50 . The activator (eg 54 in FIG. 13 ) is carried by the launcher. In general, all parts necessary to power the activator are carried by the launcher. In this way, the unit as a whole cannot be operated until the casing 44 and the launcher 42 are functionally coupled to each other. When the two are connected together, actuation of the launcher 42 (and activator 54 ) results in ejection of the strapping projectile from the casing 44 .

In the example shown, the launcher 42 includes a trigger panel 46 , which is described in greater detail below with respect to FIG. 13 . In general, activation of the trigger panel activates the pressure source 50 , resulting in the ejection of a fired projectile from the casing 44 . Once a projectile has been deployed from a particular projectile casing, the casing can be removed and a new projectile casing with the pre-installed percussion projectile 12 installed in the launcher. In a matter of seconds, the first casing is activated and can be replaced with a new casing. Thus, law enforcement personnel, security personnel, and military personnel can very quickly replace a used projectile casing with a new projectile casing ready to be loaded and activated by the launcher.

Because the casing 44 may contain all disposable parts of the system, the launcher 42 may have an extended useful life and require little replacement or servicing. The restraint projectile 12 and pressure source 50 can be installed within the projectile casing in a controlled environment so that a clean and effective placement can be consistently achieved. The projectile casing is provided to law enforcement personnel ready for use, who only needs to insert the projectile casing into the launch pad. The end user of the device can reload the projectile casing with the pressure source and the strapping projectile but end users feel that they do not have to and the quality can be much better by reloading the projectile casing with the percussion projectile and the pressure source. .

The casing 44 may be secured within the launcher 42 in a variety of ways. In one embodiment, the casing may “snap” to the launcher and held securely in place by one or more mechanical fasteners (not shown in detail). The end user can easily remove the lock when it is desirable to remove the casing from the launch pad.

8 is a front view of the casing 44 . In this figure, the pellets 14a and 14b may be stored in a ready-to-use state in the sockets 30a and 30b, respectively. A tether storage compartment 32 may be provided and may include a molded depression formed in the projectile casing (not shown in the figure) to allow the tether to be stored adjacent to the pellets prior to use. The projectile casing may include a front shroud 56 that may form a protective pocket 58 around the tether and pellets. As shown in Figure 7, a cover 57 may be applied over the pocket 58 and may be attached to a shroud 56 to prevent exposure of the pocket to contaminants or to contain a strapping projectile within a projectile casing.

9-12, the pressure source 50 comprises a cartridge blank. It is well known that this type of pressure source generally contains a gunpowder that is activated by striking a primer formed within the vacuole cartridge. Dread cartridges do not contain slugs. When the cartridge is deployed, only high-pressure waves are generated from the projectile casing. According to the present technology, the high-pressure wave is used to propel the strapping projectile from the system at high speed. In one embodiment of the present invention, the blank cartridge may be non-removably attached to the cartridge such that the cartridge is a single actuating cartridge. In this way, cartridges can be installed in a controlled manufacturing environment to ensure that the appropriate cartridges are used, that the cartridges are properly installed, and that the casing 44 is otherwise ready for use. The cartridge may be secured to the casing by adhesive, mechanical crimp, or the like.

By non-removably attaching the blank cartridge 50 to the casing 44, there is little risk of a real bullet or "real" cartridge being accidentally inserted into the casing. Additionally, the length and shape of the central bore 60 may be configured to prevent insertion of anything other than a properly designed blank cartridge 50 .

In contrast, the fired projectile 12 is removably installed within the projectile casing. All parts of the percussion projectile (ie pellets 14a, 14b and tether 16) are installed in the casing so that when the pressure source 50 is deployed, the parts can be easily and completely discharged from the casing. The geometry of the sockets 30a, 30b inside the casing 44, together with the geometry of the pellets, is carefully designed to form a consistent and effective deployment of the strapping projectile each time the launcher is activated. 10 to 12 show the above geometry in more detail.

Referring to the top view of FIG. 10 , the sockets 30a and 30b are angled relative to each other to move away from each other as the pellets 14a and 14b are ejected from the projectile casing 44 . In the example shown, at least a portion of one of the sockets extends within the cartridge under a portion of another of the sockets (in this example, the "lower" socket 30b is below the "upper" socket 30a). extended). Depending on the particular arrangement, one of the pellets may overlap or extend below or above the other of the pellets when the pellets are installed into the socket. In the example shown, pellets 30b extend below pellets 30a (viewed vertically from the horizontal plane in which the casing is arranged) as the pellets are stored and ready for activation. As shown in the side view of FIG. 11 , in one example, the sockets may optionally extend on planes that are offset perpendicular to each other or parallel to each other.

Casing 44 may also include a central bore 60 as shown in FIGS. In this embodiment, when activated, the vacuole cartridge 50 emits a high-pressure wave into the central bore. The high-pressure wave travels into the two sockets 30a and 30b and is uniformly distributed between the two sockets. Accordingly, the configuration of each socket 30a and socket 30b ends in or at least in fluid communication with the central bore 60 .

As described above, each of the sockets 30a, 30b can hold one pellet 14a, 14b before the pellets are deployed from the projectile casing. As a high-pressure wave is generated by the cartridge, the high-pressure wave is directed toward the central bore and is applied to the pellets held in the sockets 30a, 30b. The pellets are then forcedly ejected from the inner block towards the subject.

As best understood in FIG. 10 , the sockets 30a , 30b may be arranged at an angle “α” to each other. The angle may vary but is generally an acute angle between about 10 degrees and about 60 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle may range from about 25 degrees to about 45 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle is about 30 degrees. Once the sockets are angled to each other, the pellets 14a, 14b are directed away from each other as they exit the socket. In this way, the pellets are separated from each other very quickly, pulling the tether 16 taut between the sockets so that the tether can be fully extended before it is connected to the subject. The forward-facing energy applied to the pellet is split between the two pellets and angled by the characteristics of the socket: thus, if the pellet inadvertently comes into direct contact with the subject, the force will be less than that applied by full charge and Minimize the risk of injury to the subject.

A launcher is shown in Figures 3A and 3B. In FIG. 3A , the strapping projectile 12 (viewed from above) is fired towards and moves into connection with the subject 100 . Prior to contacting the subject, the tether 16 is pulled taut so that the pellets 14 move in a straight line towards the subject. Immediately after the tether 16 makes contact with the subject, the momentum of the pellets that prevents the tether from continuing to move along the current trajectory of the pellets causes the pellets to move towards each other (shown in FIG. 3B), and the Momentum orbits the pellet around the subject.

The tether is tightly wound around the subject's legs as the pellets are orbited around the subject's legs. As the tether is wound tightly around the subject's legs, the pellets wind more rapidly as the rotational speed of the pellets increases and the effective length of the tether decreases. In an average deployment process, the pellets wrap around the subject's leg 2 to 3 times and the tether wraps around the subject's leg 4 to 6 times. As can be seen, after the tether wraps around the subject's leg, the subject will experience mobility difficulties, at least temporarily.

Referring again to FIG. 10 , in the example above, the axes 31a , 31b of each of the sockets 30a , 30b may intersect each other at a location within the casing 44 . That is, a portion or section of one of the sockets intersects a portion or section of the other socket within the bounds of the casing. In the illustrated example, the sockets 30a and 30b intersect or overlap at the position where each socket is fluidly connected with the central bore 60 . The sockets may also be stacked horizontally relative to each other to provide a nested configuration on top of each other. In this way, the sockets can be spaced relatively close to each other while maintaining a desired angle between the socket and the socket. The location where the sockets intersect may be adjusted closer to or further away from the central bore.

The stacked/nested configuration allows the use of a relatively narrow projectile casing 44 irrespective of the desired angle for orienting the socket. If the sockets are arranged side by side without overlapping axes, the width or diameter of the projectile casing will have to increase as the angle "α" between the socket axes 31 increases. However, if the axes overlap, this limitation is removed when arranging the sockets. Thus, the projectile casing can be much narrower than in other cases. The result is a launcher system that can be easily carried by law enforcement agents, similar to conventional firearms or Taser. Although not so limited, in one aspect of the present invention, a projectile casing 44 may be formed having a diameter or maximum width of less than about 2 inches (5.1 cm) and less than 1½ inches (3.8 cm). Projectile casings may be formed having a length of less than about 2½ inches (6.4 cm) or less than 2 inches (5.1 cm). Also, the vertical displacement of the pellets may be different due to stacking or overlapping of sockets as the pellets come into contact with the subject. The vertical offset of the pellet is described in more detail in the above applications.

13 shows an example of a launcher 42 and some of the components inside the launcher. Some operable parts of the launcher are omitted from the figure in order to more clearly show the principle of operation of the launcher. In this example, the activator comprises a sliding firing bolt 54 . The firing bolt may include an inner spring 66 that may be biased into a compressed state to prepare the bolt for firing. This may be accomplished by a sliding "cocking" mechanism (not shown in detail) available to compress the inner spring. The trigger panel 46 (typically accessible from the top of the launch pad) may be pressed to activate firing of the strapping projectile. When the trigger panel 46 is depressed, the lever 46a presses the lever 68, resulting in the tang 70 disengaging the firing bolt. The tension of the spring 66 propels the bolt 54 along a predetermined trajectory. When the casing is installed inside the launcher, the blank cartridge 50 is located at the end of the bolt trajectory. The bolt collides with the cartridge, igniting the primer and generating a high-pressure wave.

On the other hand, although Fig. 13 shows the general operation of the illustrated firing bolt 54, it should be understood that many of the components contributing to the operation of the launcher are omitted from the above figure. The components may include, but are not limited to, a structure used to "caulk" the firing bolt 54 into a ready position; may include a safety mechanism that may prevent inadvertent actuation of the launcher, a latching mechanism that latches the casing 44 within or against the launcher 42 , and the like. A person skilled in the art with knowledge of the present disclosure can readily understand the operation of these components.

In addition to using a blank cartridge as the pressure source 50, the pressure source may be provided in a number of other forms. In one embodiment, the pressure source comprises a pressurized gas cylinder that can be activated as described with respect to the empty cartridge. In another embodiment, an electronic launch system may be used. In the example above, an electronic switch (shown schematically for illustration at 80b in FIG. 13 ) may be provided in the launcher. A contact pad 80a may be provided on the casing (shown schematically for illustration in 80b of FIG. 9) on the launcher. A supplemental pad (not shown in the figure) may be associated with the launcher. Activation of the firing panel 46 activates an electronic switch which then generates an electronic signal that is transmitted through the pad 80a to the projectile casing to activate the pressure source. When the pad 80a is used, an electronic signal cannot be provided to the casing unless the casing is properly installed in the launcher.

By packaging the pressure source 50 and the strapping projectile 12 within a detachable projectile casing 44, all the components that generate (and respond to) the force are contained in a single unit. There are no unnecessary gaps or connections between the power source and the strapping projectile. This feature also eliminates the need to reload the two parts, the strapping projectile and the pressure source, the parts being one that can be easily and quickly loaded into or unloaded from the launcher 42 . A detachable part, because it is contained within the projectile casing.

24 and 25, four sockets 30c, 30d, 30e, 30f are formed within exemplary projectile casing 44a therein. 25, the upper sockets 30c, 30d, when activated, are capable of carrying pellets from one binding projectile (not shown) facing the front of the block. The lower sockets 30e and 30f (not shown here) can carry pellets from different strapping projectiles, and upon ejection the pellets will be propelled at non-parallel angles with an angle "ε" with respect to the upper socket. . Each pair of sockets may be oriented (or vertically staggered) as shown in FIGS. 8 and 11 . In the above embodiment, when the launcher including the casing 44a is aimed towards the target, one projectile may be aimed at the subject's torso, and the second projectile may be aimed at the subject's legs. This may provide more opportunities to temporarily incapacitate the subject. The device may allow law enforcement personnel to point the launcher at the subject's body. Because many law enforcement personnel are trained to fire directly at the subject's torso rather than the subject's legs, the launcher of the projectile can be used appropriately by law enforcement agencies. Although the angle "ε" can vary, we have found that 6 degrees is sufficient for two projectiles to contact the subject's body in different areas.

24 and 25, both projectiles (all four pellets) are ejected from the casing 44a by activation of the energy source 50 (not shown in the figure). However, the system can be configured to provide a pressure wave to the upper sockets independent of the lower sockets so that, for example, law enforcement personnel can choose which projectile to deploy. Likewise, a block may contain more than two pairs of sockets capable of firing simultaneously, or the sockets may be configured to be fired individually by one or more firing mechanisms.

Although the above description has focused on projectile casings and launchers used in the art, the ballistic characteristics of the strapping projectiles must be carefully matched with the operable characteristics of the casing and launcher. In general, strapping projectiles of the present technology are provided that are electrically inactive. That is, the projectiles do not attach to an electrical charge source and do not require an electrical charge to knock over or bind the subject. As used herein, the term "electrically inert" is understood to mean a state in which projectiles and pellets and tethers do not carry electrical charges other than those carried by inert objects within the environment in which the projectile is deployed. Thus, while some static charge can be carried by most objects in the environment, projectiles (pellets and tethers) do not perform any additional charge. In most embodiments, the tether and pellet need not have any other structure capable of similarly transferring an electrical charge to the subject.

Still other examples of suitable pellets and tethers are shown in FIGS. 14-23 . In the embodiment shown in FIG. 14 , at least one connecting hook 144 may be connected to at least one of the pellets 12 . The connection hook operates to be connected to the clothing worn by the subject 100 connected to the restraint projectile, so that the restraint projectile can be easily maintained around the subject. During the wrapping process or after the process is completed, the connecting hook may be connected with another connecting hook. According to the inventors of the present invention, while it is effective to wrap the projectile around a subject, using a connecting hook for the pellets facilitates holding the projectile around the subject after the projectile wraps around the subject and reduces the likelihood of successful tethering or wrapping. is said to increase The connecting hooks are connected to clothing worn by the subject (or connected to other hooks of the projectile) and do not necessarily have to be connected to the subject's skin or body. In some embodiments, contact with the subject's skin or body is unnecessary and in other embodiments the above consideration may be unimportant (eg, while very small hooks are used).

While the various connecting hooks shown in the figures include prior art “hook” shapes, the hooks may include linear segments extending from the pellets in various directions. For example, the hook may include straight segments extending vertically from the pellets along one direction and rotating at an angle along the other direction. That is, the hooks need not have curved portions—the hooks may include one or more linear segments formed at an angle to each other. The hook may also extend directly from the pellet in a unitary direction and need not include segments extending in different directions.

For this construction the device uses a unique way in which the connecting hooks are arranged relative to the pellet. For example, as shown in FIG. 14 , the hook 144 may include a point 146 extending in a direction opposite to the direction in which the tether extends from the pellet. In this way, point 146 can connect with the subject's clothing while the pellet is wrapped around the subject. The distal end 170 of the pellet 14d of FIG. 14 is caused to move toward (and radially) the subject's clothing while the projectile encircles the subject. The hook point engages with the subject's clothing just before the pellet completes wrapping. This direction allows the hook to immediately engage with the subject's clothing. Otherwise, the hook must be pulled back to connect with the garment.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 21 , hooks 148 oriented to extend from the pellet 14h in the same direction as the tether 16 extend are provided. According to various embodiments, the hook may be provided in front, rear, and front and rear. In this embodiment, hooks 144 extending in opposite directions are provided. Pellets according to the present technology may include hooks facing in one or both directions. In the embodiment of FIG. 14 , hook 144 includes a barb 159 that protrudes from the hook generally along a direction opposite to that of point 146 . The barbs can hold the subject's clothing and hooks engaged. However, in other embodiments, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 16 , no thorns are provided. In this case, the hook 152 only has a unidirectional point 154 that can be directed at various angles or trajectories.

16 , the hook may be configured to extend from the pellet along a particular direction. The angle “β” shown is the angle formed between the longitudinal axis of the pellet ( 142 in FIG. 14 ) and the general direction of extension of the point portion of the hook from the pellet. In some embodiments, the angle may be between about 15 degrees and about 35 degrees. In one embodiment, the angle is about 23 degrees.

14 , in one embodiment of the present invention, the pellets may include a neck portion 160 that may include a diameter less than the outer diameter of the pellets. Accordingly, in some embodiments the neck thus provides a recessed shank that extends away from a larger portion of the pellet including the pocket 132 .

A connecting hook 144 may extend over the neck portion 160 of the pellet. In one embodiment, the connecting hook extends outwardly along a radial direction from the longitudinal axis of the pellet to a circumferential span. The circumferential span of the connecting hook may be smaller than the circumferential span of the outer surface of the pellet. As can be seen from FIG. 14 , the hook 144 extends outwardly only to the diameter “D” of the lower portion of the pellet. Thus a hook can be used with the pellets and also the pellets can be inserted into a socket or barrel from which they are discharged. Accordingly, the hook can be provided without requiring a special configuration of the socket. Hooked pellets can be assembled into holes of the same size diameter as those used for unhooked pellets.

The recessed neck 160 provides an additional advantage as the pellet's distal end 170 is generally much larger than the neck and thus has greater mass. When the pellets are ejected from the launcher (applying a pressure wave to the end 170 of the pellets in Figure 14), the neck is ejected first from the barrel or socket of the launcher. However, when the tether is pulled taut, the end 170 becomes a tip, and an increase in the mass of this end provides a forward momentum to the pellet, helping to obtain a good wrap against the subject 100 .

An advantage of the concave neck portion 160 is that the distal end 170 of the pellet is generally much larger and therefore has a greater mass than the neck portion. When the pellets are ejected from the dispenser (which creates pressure on the distal end 170 of the pellets in FIG. 14 ), the neck portion is first ejected from the barrel or socket of the dispenser. However, when the tether is pulled taut, the end 170 becomes the leading end, and as the mass of the end increases, it provides a forward-facing momentum for the pellet to provide good enveloping of the subject 100. help to

15-18 , the hook assembly may be provided as part of the pellet or used as the pellet itself. In this embodiment, the hook structure includes a hollow shank 162 ( FIG. 15 ) capable of receiving a tether 16 . In this way, the hook structure can be easily coupled to the tether without creating a weight offset with respect to one side or the other side of the tether. Also, if a hollow shank is utilized, one or more hook structures may be engaged with the tether along various longitudinal positions on the tether. For example, as shown in FIG. 20 , pellet 14g does not include a hook structure. However, the hook assembly 164 includes two hooks 144 and a hollow shank 162 (not shown in detail). When the hollow shank is utilized, the hook assembly can be moved to any desired position along the tether 16 and can be easily mounted without damaging, twisting, or twisting the tether. The tether includes opposing hooks 180 (FIG. 22) on the hook assembly and may include a plurality of hook assemblies 164 arranged in various orientations. The tether's hook assembly may be used with the pellet's hook assembly.

In this embodiment (and many other embodiments) an access hole 166 may be used which operates much like a rosette to allow the hook assembly or pellet to easily engage the tether. In the embodiment of FIG. 20 , the hook assembly 164 may be arranged in a desired position, and a small amount of adhesive or other attachment material may be applied through the access hole 166 to mount the hook assembly in place. In the example shown in FIG. 14, access holes 166 may be used to mount the pellets to the tether 16 and hooks 144 within the pellets if desired.

The embodiment shown in each of Figures 14, 15, 16, 19 and 20 includes two hooks 144 coupled to or carried by the pellet. In addition to using two hooks, a single hook may be used. Optionally, it has been found that proper connection of the subject can be ensured if multiple equally spaced hooks are used around the pellet. In Figure 17, three hooks 149 are used. In one embodiment, a number 12 treble hook has been found to be suitable. In FIG. 18 , four hooks 151 are used. In each of these cases, the hooks are spaced evenly around the hollow shank 162 and the longitudinal axis of the pellet. In some embodiments, more than four hooks are used.

Tether 16 may also include structures that may limit the subject's ability to rapidly detach from the tether. For example, as shown in FIG. 19 , the connection feature 168 may be added to the tether with spacing along the tether. Representative intervals are denoted, for example, by "S." Connection features 168 may take a variety of forms. In one example, small knots may be formed in the tether at regular intervals. The knots may be associated with clothing worn by the subject to limit the subject's rapid separation from the projectile. The knots may also help the tether connect as it wraps around the subject. In another example, beads, spheres, or other structures may be attached to or integrally formed with the tether. Small “blobs” or dots of adhesive or similar material may be added to the tether to form connecting features. In another example, the connection features can include a hook assembly shown at 164 of FIG. 20 and can be regularly spaced apart as desired. Thus, a series of hook assemblies may be attached to the tether at spaced apart intervals.

The tether 16 may be formed of various materials. According to one feature, the tether is formed from a conventional nylon material. A waxed cord may also be used as the wax facilitates wrapping and/or coiling the tether so that it fits properly and remains within the tether compartment. In one embodiment, the tether may be formed of an elastic material. The elastic material allows the tether to extend from a nominal structure (eg, “L0” in FIG. 1 ) to a longer, elongated structure.

In one embodiment, the tether may extend from 20% to 300% of its original length. If the tether is provided with elasticity, the tether can be extended by the momentum of the pellet as the strapping projectile is propelled towards the subject. Thus, at the instant shown in FIG. 3A immediately prior to contact with subject 100 , tether 16 may have an elongated configuration. When the tether comes into contact with the subject, the elasticity of the tether pulls the pellets around the subject. In this way, in addition to the momentum of the pellet causing the pellets to wrap around the subject when the tether comes into contact with the subject, the elasticity of the tether can pull the pellet around the subject.

As shown in FIG. 22 , in one embodiment, a hook assembly 180 that may include a plurality of hooks 144 , 148 , etc. may be provided. The hook assembly (not fully shown in the figure) may be installed, for example, in the hollow neck portion 160 of the pellet. The hook assembly may include a leading shank 182 and a trailing shank 184 . In this example, the trailing shank 184 is installed in the neck portion of the pellet separately from the tether 16 . The tether is then routed around the hooks of the hook assembly as it extends from the pellet. In this way, the longitudinal axis of the tether (eg, shown at 192 in FIG. 23 ) is offset from the longitudinal axis of the hook assembly. According to the inventors, if the longitudinal axis of the tether is offset in this way, the pellet and/or hook assembly may be "cocked" relative to the tether as the tether moves towards the subject. Thus, the subject can successfully engage the hooks when the hooks contact the subject's clothing (or when contacting the hooks of another pellet or hook assembly).

A similar relationship is shown in more detail in the further embodiment shown in FIG. 23 . In this example, the pellets 14j may include a longitudinal axis 190 . In this example, the tether is routed out of the pellet through an opening 166 rather than the end of the pellet. In this way, the longitudinal axis 192 of the tether is offset with an offset Ow from the longitudinal axis 190 of the pellets. Also, when the tether is coupled to the pellet at the opening 166, it has an offset 0L relative to the overall length LP of the pellet and effectively engages the pellet. In this example, if the tether is extended from the upper end of the pellet, the offset 0L will be zero, as shown in the previous embodiments. In one example, the offset 0L is about half the total length LP. In this example, the overall length LP is about 1.5 inches (3.81 cm) and the offset OL is about 0.75 inches (1.91 cm). In this embodiment, the length of the neck portion is about 0.9 inches (2.29 cm). Accordingly, the opening 166 is formed in or through the neck portion directly above the relatively wide portion. Although not shown in FIG. 23 , in addition to the opening 166 of FIG. 23 through which the cord may enter the pellet, to provide access to the hook assembly (typically higher than the neck portion, as shown in FIG. 14 ). Additional openings may be provided.

Setting one or both of the offsets to greater than zero causes the pellets (and their hooks) to partially rotate or “cock” relative to the tether, particularly as they travel through the air. Thus, the likelihood that the one or more hooks attached to or carried by the pellet will successfully engage the desired structure is increased.

The hook assembly 180 shown in FIG. 22 may be installed inside a shank formed in the pellet as shown, or may be coupled to an end of the pellet. In addition to a hook assembly formed as an integral unit, a plurality of hooks may be installed into or coupled to the pellet as separate units.

Various additional features of the present technology are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. According to a feature of the present invention, the one or more pellets may include a portion extending inwardly from the outer diameter, the concave portion having an inner diameter less than the outer diameter of the pellet such that a pocket is formed within the pellet, the pocket being in the projectile deployment system Provides an area for accumulating debris and gases carried by the pressure wave generated by the In one example, the recessed portion may completely enclose the pellet.

The pellet may further comprise at least two recessed portions, the at least two recessed portions being spaced apart longitudinally along the pellet to form two pockets separated by an unmodified portion of the pellet. The concave portion may comprise a conical tapered portion extending into a planar portion substantially perpendicular to the elongate axis of the pellet. The at least one concave portion may be formed at the end of the pellet opposite the end of the pellet to which the tether is coupled to the pellet. At least one connecting hook is coupled to at least one of the pellets, and the connecting hook engages clothing worn by the subject coupled to the strapping projectile to assist in retaining the strapping projectile around the subject.

The pellets may include a neck portion having a diameter less than an outer diameter of the pellets, and the at least one connecting hook may extend over the neck portion of the pellets. The hook may include a point at which the tether extends in a direction opposite to that in which it extends from the pellet. However, as shown in FIG. 6 , the pellet 12c may include only one “head” 194 with no recesses.

According to another feature of the present invention, there is provided a method for tying up a subject, the method targeting a subject with a projectile launcher, the projectile launcher carrying a binding projectile having a pair of pellets connected by a tether; , each pellet being carried by one of a pair of sockets formed within a launcher, and activating the projectile launcher to eject pellets from the projectile launcher, and as the pellets eject from the projectile launcher, the pellets are ejected from the projectile. moving outwardly from the dispenser and laterally apart from each other, wherein the pellets have different vertical elevations relative to each other when the tether is in contact with the subject.

The method further includes spacing the projectile launcher at a distance from the subject such that the tether has a substantially maximum extension of the tether at a point where the restraint projectile connects with the subject. The tether may be resilient such that the tether may be extended as the pellets are ejected from the projectile casing. Activating the projectile launcher may include activating a compressed gas cylinder carried by the projectile launcher. Activating the projectile launcher may include activating a dread cartridge carried by the projectile launcher. Ejecting the pellets may include discharging the pellets at an angle of from about 10 degrees to about 60 degrees relative to each other. The angle may be about 25 degrees to about 45 degrees.

The method may further comprise aligning the socket in the projectile launcher in a particular orientation prior to activating the launcher. Aligning the socket in a particular orientation may include aligning the socket so that the pellets move in an offset vertical trajectory as they exit the projectile launch device.

It should be understood that the above constructions illustrate applications of the principles of the present invention. Various modifications and alternative arrangements can be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention when the invention has been shown in the drawings and described in connection with exemplary embodiments of the invention. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that many modifications may be made without departing from the principles and concepts of the present invention disclosed in the embodiments.

12......... projectiles,
16.......Tether,
14.......Pellets.

Claims (32)

A projectile deployment system comprising:
A binding projectile comprising a pair of pellets and a tether connected to the pellets;
a projectile casing comprising a pair of sockets, each socket sized to carry one of the pellets;
the socket pairs are arranged at an angle to each other so that the pellets are moved away from each other as they exit the projectile casing, the sockets being offset perpendicular to each other and extending parallel to each other in planes,
a launcher carrying a projectile casing;
A projectile deployment system comprising: a selectively activatable pressure source carried by one of a launcher or a projectile casing, the pressure source capable of ejecting a restraint projectile from the projectile casing toward a subject.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the pressure source is carried by the casing and further comprising an activator capable of actuating the pressure source to eject the restraint projectile from the projectile casing, wherein the activator is carried by the launcher. projectile deployment system.
2. The projectile deployment system of claim 1, wherein the pressure source comprises a blank cartridge.
The projectile deployment system of claim 1, wherein the pressure source comprises a compressed gas canister.
delete The projectile deployment system of claim 1, wherein the pellets overlap each other when installed in the socket.
2. The projectile deployment system of claim 1, wherein said pressure source is in fluid communication with a single discharge bore and said single discharge bore is in fluid communication with a respective socket.
A projectile deployment system comprising:
launcher,
A binding projectile comprising a pair of pellets and a tether connected to the pellets;
a projectile casing coupled to the launcher, the projectile casing comprising a pair of sockets, each socket carrying one of the pellets;
a selectively activatable pressure source carried by one of the launcher and the projectile casing, actuating the pressure source to eject the strapping projectile from the projectile casing;
A projectile deployment system, characterized in that the sockets extend parallel to each other in planes and are oriented within the projectile casing such that the pellets move towards different vertical trajectories as they exit the projectile casing.
9. The projectile deployment system of claim 8, wherein the pressure source comprises a blank cartridge.
9. The projectile deployment system of claim 8, wherein the pressure source comprises a compressed gas canister.
9. The projectile deployment system of claim 8, wherein the projectile casing is detachably connected to the launcher and interchangeable with a plurality of projectile casings.
9. The projectile deployment system of claim 8, wherein the sockets are secured within the projectile casing at different elevations.
delete 13. A subject in a projectile deployment system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 6 to 12, further comprising one or more connecting hooks connected to at least one of said pairs of pellets, said connecting hooks being a subject of a projectile deployment system. wherein said projectile deployment system is operable to maintain said restraint projectile around a subject in connection with a garment worn by the subject.
A method of binding a subject, the method comprising:
Aiming the projectile deployment system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 6 to 12 towards a subject, and
and activating the selectively activatable pressure source to activate the pressure source and eject a restraint projectile from the projectile casing towards the subject. delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete

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