KR20080043770A - Systems and methods for multiple function electronic weaponry - Google Patents

Abstract

An electronic nonlethal weapon includes a first control that initiates a launch function, a second control that does not initiate any launch function, and a signal generator. In response to the second control, the signal generator either provides an arc to warn the target or stuns the target For example, in use, the weapon may cooperates with a deployment unit having first and second electrodes The first control in a first operation initiates launching of the first electrode toward a first target. The first control in a second operation initiates launching of the second electrode toward a second target. The signal generator, responsive to one operation of the second control, provides a first current through the first electrode to stun the first target and provides a second current through the second electrode to stun the second target.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD ABOUT MULTIFUNCTIONAL ELECTRONIC WEAPONS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiment of this invention relates to the weapons containing an electronic control apparatus.

Background of the invention

Conventional electronic weapons, for example, contact impact devices, police wands, shields, impact guns, pistols, rifles, mortars, grenades, projectiles, landmines and areas An area protection device. This type of weapon, when used against human or animal targets, causes current to flow through portions of the target tissue, interfering with the target's use of its skeletal muscle. All or part of the electronic circuit may be pushed towards the target. In critical applications of electronic weapons, terrorists may not be able to attack and may not be able to complete actions that require force to gain illegal control of equipment, equipment, operators, innocent citizens and law enforcement staff. In other important applications of electronic weapons, the suspect may be arrested by law enforcement officials, and cooperation with the prisoner may be maintained by security officials. In general, an electronic weapon includes a circuit for generating a stimulus signal and one or more electrodes. In operation, for example, in order to prevent terrorist behavior, the electrode is directed from the electronic weapon towards the person to be blocked or regulated. After the impact, the pulsed current is conducted between electrodes sufficient to interfere with a person's use of his skeletal muscle. Interference may include intense muscle contraction that reflexively repeats at a rate of 5 to 20 contractions per second.

Studies have shown that the strength of muscle contractions and the range of bodies affected by muscle contractions depend on several factors, including the range of bodies that are conducting, charged or discharged by pulsed currents. In general, the range increases as the distance between the electrodes increases. Typically, a suitable minimum distance is about 7 inches. Prior to propulsion, the electrodes are usually stored much closer together and spread apart towards the target during flight. It is desirable to improve the accuracy with which the electrodes strike the target.

Conventional electronic weapons are intended for a limited number of applications. In addition to the multi-function user interface, weapons capable of multiple functions are desirable. For anti-terrorism, law enforcement, and safety, the arrest and control of multiple targets in a single confrontation is an important application, where a single weapon with multiple functions is desirable.

Conventional electronic weaponry provides only one stimulus signal for all applications. It is desirable to provide a unique stimulus signal for each of several applications.

In many countries, government officials can explain to citizens about the proper use of force against suspects. It is desirable to improve data communication performance and user interface of electronic weapons to facilitate data collection and data analysis.

It would be desirable to provide secure organizational electronic weapons that are easily customized for specific applications to anti-terrorist organizations, law enforcement organizations, and these different organizations.

Many types of electronic weaponry are powered from limited electrical supplies such as batteries. Saving battery power prolongs the use of weaponry during recharging of the required batteries. It is desirable to use the electrical energy provided by the battery in a more efficient way.

Conventional electronic weapons have limited application, limited range of use, and limited accuracy. Without the present invention, it is not possible to manufacture electronic weapons that are more accurate and reliable with longer range and complex functions within existing economic limitations.

Summary of the invention

According to various aspects of the present invention, the device is used for a human or animal target. The apparatus includes a first controller, a second controller, and a signal generator. The first control unit starts the firing function. The second control does not initiate any firing function. In response to the second control, the signal generator generates an arc to warn or shock the target.

According to various aspects of the present invention, the method is performed by an apparatus with respect to a human or animal target. The method includes (a) initiating the launch of an electrode of the device towards a target, wherein the initiating step is completed in response to a first control of the device; And (b) providing a current passing through the electrode and through the target to impact the target, the providing step being completed in response to the second control, in any substantial order. The second control does not initiate any firing function.

Brief description of the drawings

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings, wherein like numerals denote like elements.

1 is a functional block diagram of an electronic weaponry system in accordance with various aspects of the present invention.

2A-2B are state diagrams for the various operator interfaces and processes that each support an operator interface of the system of FIG.

3 is a functional block diagram of a launch device in another implementation in accordance with various aspects of the present invention that may be used in the system of FIG. 1.

4A-4D are signal definition diagrams for signals at terminals or electrodes of the system of FIG.

5 is a front perspective view of a total implementation of the system of FIG. 1.

6 is a rear perspective view of a total implementation of the system of FIG. 1.

7 is a functional block diagram of a deployment unit control function of the system of FIG.

8A-8B are schematic diagrams of a cooperative model of the system and target of FIG. 1.

9 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the deployment unit control function of FIG. 7.

10 is a schematic diagram of part of the discharge function of FIG.

11-16 are schematic diagrams of some implementations of the discharge function of FIG. 9.

17 is a schematic diagram of a switch for controlling stimulation of the discharge function of FIGS. 7 to 16.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

More use and improved accuracy of electronic weaponry can be obtained by eliminating various problems present in conventional electronic weaponry systems. Conventional electronic weaponry is a contact type (referred to herein as a local stun function) that suppresses a person or animal (referred to herein as a target) by contacting (or approaching) two or more terminals of the weapon to the skin or clothing of the target. (Or proximity) impact function may also be performed. Other conventional electronic weapons may also perform a remote shock function that fires an electrode with one or more wire ropes from the weapon to the target, adjoining the skin or clothing of the target, or stabbing the target by poking the skin or clothing. Whether local or remote impact, an electrical circuit is formed to pass a pulsing current through a portion of the tissue of the target to interfere with skeletal muscle control by the target. When the terminal or electrode is adjacent to the tissue of the target, an arc is formed in the air to complete the circuit for the current flowing through the tissue of the target.

According to various aspects of the present invention, the electronic weapon system may alternatively perform a local stun function and a remote stun function without operator intervention to mechanically reconfigure the electronic weapon system. The local stun function is available at the front of the weapon system whether or not cartridges (consumable or non-consumable) are loaded. Many non-consumable cartridges may be individually loaded by clips or magazines prior to using the electronic weapon system to provide multiple operations of the remote impact function.

Conventionally, electrodes, rope wires, and propellant systems are packaged as cartridges mounted to an electronic weapon to form an electronic weapon system for one-time remote impact use. After deployment of the electrode, the spent cartridge is removed from the electronic weapon and replaced with another cartridge. The cartridge may include several electrodes that are launched simultaneously as a group or individually launched. The cartridge may each have several sets of electrodes for independent firing in a manner similar to a magazine.

Electronic weapon systems according to various aspects of the present invention maintain several cartridges ready for use. For example, if the first attempted remote stun function is unsuccessful (eg, if the electrodes miss a target or short each other), a second cartridge may be used to mechanically reconfigure the electronic weapon system without operator intervention. have. Several cartridges may be mounted at the same time (eg, clips or magazines), or sequentially (eg, any cartridge may be removed and other cartridges may be replaced independently).

The accuracy of the remote impact function depends, among others, on the repeatable trajectory of each electrode fired from the electronic weapon. Conventional cartridges include an injection cavity for holding the electrode prior to injection and for guiding the electrode during the initial period of deployment. Traditionally, deployment has been achieved by abruptly releasing gas (eg, spark gas generation or bursting of a compressed gas cylinder). Electrodes and injection cavities are hermetically protected from contamination. When the electrode is deployed, the electrode pulls the wire tether from the wire reservoir so that the wire tether falls from the back of the electrode to the weapon while flying.

Conventional cartridges may be configured to provide a suitable range of effective distances. The range of effective distances ranges from an electrode (e.g., about 6 inches (15) when impacting the target when the target is at a certain range of distance from the weapon (e.g. Cm) to spread properly.

According to various aspects of the present invention, an electronic weapon system supports the use of a set of cartridges, each having a different range of effective distances, in part due to cartridges (or magazines) each providing various indicia of their performance to the weapon. . Cartridges, clips, and magazines are specific examples of devices referred to herein generally as deployment units. The electronic weapon system may be operable to launch a specific cartridge (or a specific electrode set of a cartridge having several sets of electrodes) suitable for the specific application of the remote impact function.

Greater utility and / or improved accuracy as discussed above is achieved by an electronic weapon system constructed and operated in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. For example and for clarity of explanation, consider the electronic weapon system 100 of FIGS. 1-15. Electronic weapon system 100 includes launch device 102 that cooperates with cartridge set 104 (or a plurality of cartridges). The cartridge 104 may be a separate unit or a mechanical combination of cartridges. In either configuration, the majority is referred to herein as deployment unit 104. The deployment unit 104 comprises a set of cartridges 105, 106, which are mounted individually or as a set, for example, to the launch device 102 as one or more clips or magazines. May be Deployment unit 104 may include two or more cartridges (eg, three, four, five, six or more). As each cartridge is consumed, the cartridge may be replaced individually. The cartridges in deployment unit 104 may be the same or different (eg, in particular, capacity, manufacturer, date of manufacture).

The launch device includes any device that operates one or more deployment units. The launch device may be packaged as a contact impact device, baton, shield, impact gun, pistol, rifle, mortar, grenade, projectile, mine, or area protection device. For example, a gun type launch device may be a handheld device in which an operator operates one or more cartridges simultaneously from a magazine or set of cartridges. Land mine launch devices (also referred to as regional defense devices) may be remotely operated (or actuated by a sensor, such as a lasso wire) to launch one or more cartridges substantially simultaneously. The grenade launch device may be activated from a timer to launch one or more cartridges substantially simultaneously. The projectile launch device may be operated from a timer or target sensor to launch a plurality of electrode sets to a plurality of targets. The functionality of these various launching devices may be understood from the functional block diagrams operable with these launching devices. For example, the functional block diagram of FIG. 1 includes a control unit 120, a display 122, a data communication unit 124, an application-specific function unit 126, a processing circuit 130, and a deployment unit control unit 140. It shows a launch device 102 comprising a. The deployment unit control unit 140 includes a configuration reporting function 142 (eg, having one or more detectors), a launch control function 144, and a stimulus signal generator 146 having a detection function 143. ). The components of the launch device 102 help to provide all of the functions described above. Other combinations of less than all of these functions may be implemented in accordance with the present invention. Deployment unit 104 of an implementation in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure may include one or more cartridges, one or more magazines, and / or one or more clips of cartridges. The weapon system according to various aspects of the present invention may include one or more physically separate deployment units, for example for redundancy, backup, or for arrays covering areas.

Launch device 102 communicates with each cartridge 105, 106 of deployment unit 104 via electrical interface 107. By the interface 107, the launch device 102 may provide a power, launch control signal, and stimulus signal to each cartridge. Various of these signals may be common (or preferably) unique to each cartridge. Each cartridge 105, 106 may provide a signal to the launch device 102 that delivers, for example, performance indicia as discussed above and further described below.

Various types of firing devices 102 as described above may be applied to a target (eg, area rejection device), an operator (eg, pistol type device), or timing or sensor circuitry (eg, grenades type device). It includes a control unit operated by. The control includes any conventional manual or automatic interface circuit, such as a manually operated switch or relay. The control unit may be implemented using a graphical user interface (eg, a graphical display, a pointing device, or a touch screen display).

In a pistol-type device, the controller 120 may include any one or more safety controls, trigger controls, range priority controls, and stimulus controls. The safety control (eg, binary switch) may be read by the processing circuit 130 and may perform overall enablement or disabling of the trigger and stimulation circuits 144, 146. The trigger control may be read by the processing circuit 130 to perform the operation 144 of the propeller 116 in the particular cartridge 105. The range priority control may operate in response to the next operation of the trigger control in accordance with the range of effective distances for the intended application indicated by the range priority control by reading out by the processing circuit 130 and executing a selection by the processor of the cartridge. have. The stimulus control, when actuated, may initiate another transmission of one or more stimulus signals for the local stun function via a terminal (not shown) of the launch device 102 or through the contactor 118 of the cartridge 105. . The contactor 118 may transmit additional stimulus signals through the terminals for the local stun function or through the terminals for the remote stun function.

The control unit may be implemented using any initiator / detector discussed herein. Such an implementation may facilitate maintaining a hermetic seal of the launch device. For example, a safety device, trigger, range priority, and / or stimulus control may be a reed switch located inside a hermetic seal of a firing device that detects the position and / or movement of the moving magnet and its magnet using the manual movement of the control. It may be implemented using.

The display may provide for the presentation of the information and further present the control icons as described above. Any conventional display may be used. For example, display 122 receives information from processing circuit 130, presents the information to an operator of launch device 102 and reports back to processing circuit 130 (eg, a touch screen). Function).

The data communication function uses wired and / or wireless data transmission and reception using any conventional protocol and circuit. Through data communication, the processing circuit 130 is updated to describe the software to be performed by the processing circuit 130, the presentation for the display 122, the launching device 102 and / or the deployment unit 104. Configuration information and data collected by the processing circuit 130 may be received.

The application specific function is in communication with the processing circuit 130 to facilitate more efficient use of the launch device 102 in a particular application or a particular type of application. The application specific function 126 may provide software to the processing circuit 130 and include sensors and I / O devices. Alert, local stun, and remote stun functions are mentioned herein as main functions.

Processing circuitry includes any circuitry for performing a function in accordance with a stored program. For example, processing circuit 130 may include a processor and memory, and / or a conventional sequential machine that executes microcode or assembly language instructions from memory. The processing circuit may include one or more microprocessors, microcontrollers, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors, programmable gate arrays, or programmable logic devices.

The configuration reporting function includes any function that collects information describing the operating conditions and configuration of the electronic weapon system. The information collected may be the result of a functional test performed by a configuration reporting function or by another circuit or processor. The collected information may be reported by the configuration reporting function or to the configuration reporting function for another function (eg, data communication function 124, processing circuit 130, memory 114). It may simply be available. For example, the configuration report function 142 of the deployment unit 140 cooperates with the indicator (s) or the indicator of the deployment unit (eg, the indicators of the cartridges 105 and 106) ( And a detector 143 for performing data communication with and reporting the result to the processing circuit 130. Processing circuit 130 may use these results to properly perform any alert, local shock, and remote shock functions using appropriate portions of one or more deployment units 104. The processing circuit 130 may also interact with the data communication function 124 and / or the deployment unit control function 140 to transfer the collected information to the memory of another system or deployment unit.

For example, the description of the configuration of the launch device 102 and the description of the currently installed deployment unit (s) may be appropriately collected using the functional test results and immediately prior to the deployment of the cartridge 105 or May be stored in memory 114 immediately thereafter. The same collection information may be associated with the performance of certain key functions (eg, specific day, time, operator, and / or location) in combination with audio, video, and other data, and the data communication function 124 (Eg, at the end of the operator's shift) may be delivered immediately or at an appropriate time.

The detector is in communication with one or more indicators as described above. For example, the detector 143 may include an independent sensor that detects each indicator 112 of each cartridge of the deployment unit. In one embodiment, the detector 143 includes a circuit with a lead repeater to sense the presence of a magnet (flux circuit) of appropriate polarity and / or strength at one or more locations close to the cartridge 105. The location may be read by the processing circuit 130 defining the code as described above detected by the detector 143 and managing the operation of the electronic weapon system 100. The deployment unit may have multiple indicators (eg, one set of indicators for each cartridge). The detector may have a corresponding plurality of sensors (eg, lead repeaters).

The launch control function provides a signal sufficient to activate the propellant. For example, the launch control function 144 provides an electrical signal for the operation of the electrical combustion spark ignition. The interface 107 may be connected to each propellant 116 (eg, pin) and the body of the propellant 116, the body of the cartridge 105, and / or the return electrical path through the body of the launch device 102. It may also be implemented using one conductor.

The stimulus signal generator includes circuitry for generating a stimulus signal for passing current through tissue of the target for pain compliance and / or to interfere with the operation of the skeletal muscle by the target. Any conventional stimulus signal may be used. For example, in one embodiment stimulus signal generator 146 delivers 19 pulses per second for about 5 seconds, with each pulse delivering a charge of 100 microcoulombs through the tissue at about 100 microseconds. In another embodiment, stimulus signal generator 146 provides a stimulus program as described below. Stimulus signal generator 146 may have a common interface in parallel for all cartridges of deployment unit 104, or may have individual independent operating interfaces for each cartridge 105, 106 (shown). It may be.

Launching device 102 in accordance with various aspects of the present invention launches any one or more electrodes of deployment unit 104 and provides a stimulus signal to any combination of electrodes for a remote stun function. For example, the launch control function 144 may provide a unique signal to each of the various interfaces 107, each to a cartridge of a deployment unit having one independently operated interface 107. Stimulus signal generator 146 may provide a unique signal to each of the various sets of electrodes, each to a cartridge of a deployment unit having one set of independently operated terminals. In one embodiment, launch device 102 provides a local stun function to any one or more terminals located on the surface of the launch device by coupling stimulus signal generator 146. According to various aspects of the present invention, these terminals also cooperate with the wired reservoir of the cartridge to activate the electrodes of the cartridge for the remote stun function.

Operation of an electronic weapon system with such a launch device and deployment unit facilitates multiple function operation. For example, after a set of electrodes is first deployed for a remote stun function, a set of terminals (e.g., a cartridge that has not been consumed) can be listened to for local stun function or an arc (eg, audible and And / or as a visible warning). When more than one set of electrodes is deployed for the remote stun function, the remote stun function may be performed on a selected target or multiple targets (eg, a stimulus provided in a rapid sequence between the electrodes or simultaneously provided to multiple electrodes). signal).

The cartridge includes one or more wire tether electrodes, a wire reservoir for each electrode, and a propellant. Thin wires are sometimes called filaments. When installed in the launch device 102 of a deployment unit with a cartridge, the launch device 102 determines the capabilities of one or more cartridges of the deployment unit, preferably the capabilities of one or more cartridges of the deployment unit. Determine. Launch device 102 may record information to be stored by the cartridge (e.g., among others, identity of launch device, ID of operator, configuration of launch device, and GPS location of launch device, Date / time, key function performed).

Upon operation of the control unit 120 of the launch device 102, the launch device 102 provides a stimulus signal for the local stun function. In operation of the other control 120 of the firing device 102, the firing device 102 provides a firing signal to one or more cartridges of the deployment unit 104 to be launched and provides a stimulus signal to each of the remote shock functions to be used. It can also be provided in the cartridge. The determination of which cartridge (s) to fire may be accomplished by the firing device 102 in connection with the performance of the installed cartridge and / or the operation of control by the operator. According to various aspects of the invention, the firing signal has a voltage substantially lower than the voltage of the stimulus signal; The firing signal and the stimulus signal may be provided simultaneously or independently according to the control unit 120 of the firing device 102 and / or depending on the configuration of the firing device 102.

As discussed above, the cartridge includes any extensible package having one or more wire tethered electrodes. As such, a magazine or clip is a type of cartridge. According to various aspects of the present invention, the cartridges 105, 106 of FIG. 1 include an interface 107, an indicator 112, a memory 114, a propellant 116, and a contactor 118. In another embodiment, the indicator 112 is omitted and the memory 114 performs the function of providing any or all of the indications discussed below with respect to the indicator 112. In another embodiment, memory 114 is omitted to reduce cost and complexity of the cartridge.

Interface 107 supports communication as discussed herein in any conventional manner. The interface 107 may include a mechanical and / or electrical configuration for communication. The communication may include conducting electrical signals (eg, connectors, spark gaps), supporting magnetic circuits, and passing optical signals.

Indicators include any device that provides information to a launch device. The indicator cooperates with the launch device for automatic communication of the indicia carrying information from the indicator to the launch device. The information may be communicated in any conventional manner, including sourcing the signal by the indicator or modulating the signal sourcing by the launch device. The information may be carried by any conventional property of the communicated signal. For example, indicator 112 may be a passive electrical, magnetic, or optical circuit that affects the charge, current, electric field, magnetic field, magnetic flux, or radiation (eg, light) sourced by launch device 102. It may also include. The presence of charge, current, field, flow rate, or radiation at a particular time or times may be used to convey information through interface 107. The relative position of the indicator relative to the detector within launch device 102 may carry information. In various embodiments, the indicator may include one or more of resistors, capacitances, inductances, magnets, magnetic classifiers, resonant circuits, filters, optical fibers, reflective surfaces, and memory devices.

In one embodiment, the indicator 112 includes a conventional passive radio frequency identification tag circuit (eg, having an antenna or operating as an antenna). In another embodiment, the indicator 112 includes a mirrored surface or lens that converts the light generated by the firing device 102 to a predetermined location of the detector or a reaction area within the firing device 102. In another embodiment, the indicator 112 includes a magnet such that its position and polarity are detected by the launch device 102 (eg, via one or more reed switches). In yet another embodiment, the indicator 112 includes one or more portions of the magnetic circuit, the presence and / or relative position of which is detectable by the rest of the magnetic circuit in the launch device 102. In another embodiment, the indicator 112 is connected to the launch device 102 by conventional connectors (eg, pins and sockets). Indicator 112 may include an impedance through which the current provided by launch device 102 passes. This latter approach is preferred for simplicity but may be less reliable in contaminated environments.

Indicator 112 in various embodiments includes any combination of the above communication techniques. Indicator 112 may communicate using analog and / or digital technology. When more than one bit of information is conveyed, the communication may be serial, time multiplexed, frequency multiplexed, or parallel communication (eg, multiple technologies or multiple channels of the same technology).

The information indicated by indicator 112 may be communicated in a coded manner (eg, analog values carry numeric codes, and communication values are indexed into tables in the launch device that more fully describe the meaning of the codes). Haul). The information may include a description of the deployment unit and / or cartridge 105, the description of which usage amount (eg, one, multiple, remaining amount) available from this cartridge, is valid for each remote shock use. Range of distances, whether the cartridge is ready for the next remote shock use (indication of a fully consumed cartridge), the manufacturer of the cartridge, the date of manufacture of the cartridge, the performance of the cartridge, the cartridge's inability, the cartridge model identifier, the cartridge's serial number, Compatibility with the model of the launch device, installation orientation of the cartridge (e.g., installation directions in which multiple directions may be used using different performance (e.g., effective distance) in each orientation), And / or any value (s) stored in memory 114 (eg, a value stored at the manufacturer, for a particular launch device). Value stored by any launch device at the time of installation of the cartridge.

The memory includes any analog or digital information storage device. For example, the memory 114 may include any conventional nonvolatile semiconductor, magnet, or optical memory. The memory 114 may include any information as discussed above and may further include any software to be performed by the launch device 102. The software may include a driver for this particular cartridge to facilitate proper (eg, plug and plus) operation of indicator 112, propellant 116, and / or contactor 118. Such functionality may include a stimulus signal. For example, one launch device is compatible with four types of cartridges: military, law enforcement, commercial security, general civil protection, and specific launch control or stimulus signals, depending on software read from memory 114. May be applied.

The propellant pushes the electrode towards the target away from the launch device. For example, the propellant 116 may include a compressed gas container that opens to drive the electrode by inflating gas that leaks out of the container from the cartridge 105 toward a target (not shown). Propellant 116 may additionally or alternatively include conventional flame gas generation capabilities (eg, gunpowder, lead free pistol powder). Preferably, the propellant 116 includes an electrically operated flame primer that operates at a relatively low voltage (eg, less than about 1500 volts) compared to the stimulus signal transmitted through the contactor 118. .

The contactor brings the stimulus signal into proximity or contact with tissue of the target (eg, animal or human). Contactor 118 may perform both a local stun function and a remote stun function as described above. In the remote stun function, the contactor 118 includes an electrode propelled by the propellant 116 away from the cartridge 105. The contactor 118 provides an electrically conductive state between the stimulus signal generator 146 in the launch device 102 and the terminal for the local stun function. The contactor 118 also provides an electrical conduction state between the stimulus signal generator 146 in the launch device 102 and the captive terminal of the wire tether for each electrode for the remote stun function. The contactor 118 may further include a stimulus signal generator to receive a stimulus control signal from the interface 107 (eg, to supplement or replace the stimulus signal generator 146 of the launch device 102).

The signal of the interface 107 between the launch device 102 and one or more deployment units (eg, magazines or cartridges) is the same as the communication between the launch device and the cartridge, as described above with reference to FIG. 1, May be substantially similar or similar.

Another embodiment of an electronic weapon system according to various aspects of the present invention operates with a magazine as described above. The magazine may include a package having multiple cartridges or a package having the function of multiple cartridges without a package of each cartridge as a detachable unit. The magazine may also provide some functionality common to all electrodes in the magazine (eg, a joint propulsion system, indicator, or memory function).

The magazine may also provide mechanical support and further provide communication supporting a plurality of cartridges. The cartridge for use of the magazine may be identical in function and structure to the cartridge 105 described above, except that the indicator 112 and the memory 114 are omitted. The indicator and memory functions described above may be accomplished by a magazine such that all cartridges are part of the magazine. Magazine indicators and / or memories may store or convey information regarding multiple installations, magazines, and uses. Since these magazines may load, install / remove / reinstall cartridges to multiple launch devices, the date of the cartridge when a change is detected or at an appropriate time (eg, recorded when using for remote impact functionality). May be detected, displayed, stored, and / or recalled. Usage may be recorded to facilitate periodic maintenance, coverage, failure analysis, or replacement.

According to various aspects of the present invention, an electronic weapon system may include a separate electrical interface for launch device and stimulus signaling. The launch control interface to a single shot cartridge may include one shot and ground. The launch control signal may be a relatively low voltage binary signal. The stimulus signal may be available independently of the local stun function with the cartridge and without the cartridge installed in the launch device. The stimulus signal may be available for the remote stun function after the cartridge propellant has been activated.

The deployment unit may comprise several (two or more) sets of terminals for the warning function and / or a local stun function, and several (two or more) sets of electrodes for the remote stun function, respectively. The set may include two or more terminals or electrodes. The firing of the electrodes may be individual (eg fast continuous or simultaneous) or in sets (for effective displacement for proper separation when the electrode is blown when the target is too close). In one embodiment, the set of terminals and the set of electrodes are packaged in a cartridge, and the deployment unit comprises several such cartridges. Before the electrode of the cartridge is fired, the terminal set of the electronic weapon (eg, part of the firing device or part of the cartridge) may perform a display (eg, warning) function or a local stun function. In one embodiment, after firing, only the remote stun function is performed from the spent cartridge; Other cartridges become available for local shock or display functions. Since the deployment unit includes one or more cartridges each having a standalone interface or interfaces, the deployment unit facilitates multiple functions as discussed herein.

For example, after the first cartridge of such a deployment unit is deployed toward the first target, the stimulus signal generator 146 is configured to provide a warning function or a local stun function with the other terminals of the deployment unit. It may work. The second target may be interlocked with respect to the second remote stun function. Subsequently, other terminals of the deployment unit may be used for other warning functions or local shock functions. The deployment unit is intended for warning and / or local shock functions independently of the cartridge configuration (e.g. not installed at all, partially installed, or all installed; not consumed at all, partially consumed, or all consumed). It may also include a terminal.

Electronic weapon systems in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure provide an operator interface to facilitate the use of multiple functions of the system. The operator interface includes a processor performed by an operator and a method performed by a method. For example, the processing circuit 130 of FIG. 1 performs a state change method for the operator interface 200 of FIG. 2A. In the state change method, only one state is started simultaneously, as shown by an ellipse. To progress from one state to another, the criteria specified in the appropriate arrows must be met to leave the current state and reach the next state. In other words, when the criteria are met, the state of the method changes to the next state. Operation specific to a particular state may be performed when the method is currently in that particular state. Control sensed by the processing circuit 130 includes a safety device (on / off), a trigger (on / off), a stimulus (on / off), and a warning (on / off).

In one embodiment, the stimulus and warning controls are implemented together as one control and the terminals for the local stun function serve as warning devices. The terminal intended for the local stun function will display a visible arc with loud popping sound when the target is not adjacent to the terminal. Combined stimuli and alerts, when set, control to activate both alerts and stimuli, and when off, to deactivate both alerts and stimuli.

In response to detecting the application of power (eg, battery power connection), the operator interface starts in a sleep state 202 as performed by the processing circuit 130. At a minimum, only important functions are performed in the sleep state 202 to save battery power (eg, maintaining time and date, maintaining the contents of volatile memory, detecting specific controls). Important functions may be performed without activating the processor of the processing circuit 130. When the safety device detects the use of the off control, the operator interface 200 proceeds to the reporting state 204. Any various information connectable or retained to the processing circuit 130 may be reported to the operator in state 204. The operator may operate other conventional controls (eg, hypertext links or menu items) to receive additional or different reports and / or specify new or changed configuration preferences. The reporting phase may continue in state 204 until the completion or change of the safety control is detected. If the operator indicates that the reporting phase has completed or if the time period has elapsed without additional control change, the operator interface 200 returns to the sleep state 202.

In response to detecting an active data communication signal of the data communication function 124 or detecting a change in the installation or removal of a deployment unit for which data communication (eg, an indicator or a memory) is desired, the operator interface 200 You may leave the sleep state 202 and proceed to the data transfer state 205. The transfer of data according to any suitable protocol may continue in state 205 until completion or until a change in safety control is detected. When new software is received, the configuration of the electronic weapon system may be automatically changed to install and / or execute the received software. The operator interface 200 may be modified or replaced by the operation of the received software. Assuming there is no such modification or replacement, the operator interface 200 returns to the sleep state when the data communication is abandoned or completed, or when the interval of time has no additional control change.

In response to the safety control detection in the “off” condition, the operator interface 200 proceeds from state 202, 204, or 205 to armed state 206. Any major function may be initiated from the armed state 206. The performance of the electronic weapon system may be displayed sequentially or as requested by conventional operator control (eg, remaining battery capacity, range of cartridges available or selected for the next remote shock operation).

In response to the warning control setting detection, the operator interface 200 proceeds from the armed state 206 to the warning state 207. Any suitable audible or visible warning circuit may be active while in state 207. In one embodiment, the audible warning is, "Stop! Drop your weapon! Raise your hands over your head!" Issues a command such as As mentioned above, the stimulus signal generator may provide loud, visual arcing between terminals intended for the local stun function as a warning. The operator interface 200 returns to the warning state when the warning control is released.

In response to detecting the trigger control setting, the operator interface 200 proceeds from the armed state to the firing state 208 and prior to entering the firing state 208 one or more cartridges as listed by the configuration of the electronic weapon system. Immediately launch one or more electrodes from there. When the trigger control is released quickly, the operator interface 200 proceeds from the firing state 208 to the running state 209. Otherwise (eg, when the appropriate interval has elapsed and the trigger control is not released), the operator interface 200 proceeds 210 from the firing state 208 to the stretch state.

In another embodiment, the processing circuit 130 of FIG. 1 performs a state change method for the operator interface 250 of FIG. 2B. The operator interface 250 includes a sleep state 202, a launch state 208, and an execution state 209 as described above. The interface 250 may further include a reporting state 204, a data transfer state 205, a warning state 207, and a stretch state 210 as described above (not shown). Uniquely, operator interface 250 includes armed state 252 for firing, armed state 254 for stimulation, execution state 256, and execution state 258. Execution states 256 and 258 provide functionality as described above in connection with execution states 209 except that different state transitions are provided to / from execution states 256 and 258 as described below. To perform.

In response to the safety control detection in the “off” condition, the operator interface 250 proceeds from the sleep state 202 to the armed state 252 for firing. In response to detecting the trigger control setting, operator interface 250 advances from armed state 252 to firing state 208 for firing and then the electrode is fired as discussed herein; When the trigger control is released, the operation continues in the run state 209 and then a stimulus current is generated to be conducted through the tissue of the target until completion. Upon completion of the execution function of state 209, operator interface 250 proceeds to armed state 254 for stimulation.

During the armed state 254 for stimulation, the operation of stimulus control proceeds to an operational state 258 for execution. When in armed state 254 for stimulation, the operation of the trigger control provides subsequent execution operation in state 256, but when the execution operation of state 256 is complete, operator interface 250 is configured for stimulation. Return to armed state 254. Subsequent firing can occur only after the activation of one or more stimulus controls. The method is accomplished by proceeding in response to the actuation of stimulus control from either state 254 or state 256 to execution state 258.

In run state 258, when run run state 258 is completed, operator interface 250 proceeds to armed state 252 for firing.

In execution state 258, when trigger control is set, operator interface 250 proceeds to launch state 208.

If safety control is detected in the "on" state, the operator interface 250 proceeds from the armed state 252 or the run state 258 to the sleep state 202 (as shown); Proceed to sleep state 202 from another state (not shown), including execution state 256, execution state 209, and armed state 254 for firing.

The stimulus signal in accordance with various aspects of the present invention is intended to ensure resilience by a target by reinforcing the operator of the electronic weapon system. According to various aspects of the present invention, the multi-functional weapon provides the operator with facilities to ensure resilience in different applications with different stimulus signals. Elasticity may be due to the pain felt by the target and / or the interference of the target's use of its skeletal muscle. As a first embodiment, the force on the target to gain elasticity may be relatively greater than the force on the client to maintain elasticity. A stimulus signal suitable for this first embodiment may include a strike step followed by many hold steps. The energy consumption of the hold phase may be less than the energy consumption for the strike phase. As a second embodiment, the initial force against the target may be significantly less than the subsequent force against the target that is determined to resist following. A stimulus signal suitable for this second embodiment may include many hold steps followed by one or more strike steps. Strike and hold stages of varying energy consumption may be available to the operator for various applications. For example, the duration of a step may be adjusted by the operator during that step.

As discussed above, the duration of a step may be extended in stretch state 210 from an initial duration to a maximum duration, unless trigger control is released. The initial duration may be a factory setting, a user configurable setting, or a recently stretched duration. The display may report the remaining duration including the extension and count when the trigger control is held without release. For example, an operator who wants to extend a step for 25 seconds may release trigger control after watching a display that lasted from 5 to 25 seconds. Any strike or hold step may be extended. As shown in Fig. 2, the first step performed after firing is extended by the operation of the trigger control.

In other embodiments in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, different controls than trigger control may be used, and the type of step to be extended may be specified by the operator and / or the step (current, or future) identified is for expansion. Can be identified. For example, with the reconstruction by the operator, the nth step (eg, first, second, third) may be selected for expansion regardless of type. In other embodiments, all stages of a particular type are extended (eg, all hold stages after the initial strike stage). To allow the target to breathe more efficiently, the electronic weapon system according to various aspects of the present invention may introduce a resting step that does not include sufficient stimulation to interfere with the breathing of the target (eg, regardless of operator control). have. In suitable applications, expansion may be negated to achieve a reduction in the duration of the identified or predetermined phase of the stimulus signal.

In response to detecting release of the trigger control, the operator interface 200 proceeds from the stretch state 210 or the fire state 208 to the run state 209, as described above. In run state 209, the duration of the strike and hold phase is metered and the stimulus signal generator is controlled to achieve the desired duration of the strike, hold, and rest phases. When achieved, operator interface 200 proceeds from run state 209 to armed state 206. The execution state 209 may be interrupted in response to the safety control detection of the “on” condition, and the operator interface 200 may proceed from the execution state to the reporting state 204 (not shown).

In response to the stimulus control setting, the operator interface 200 may proceed from armed state 206 to execution state 209. As a result, the predetermined duration of the strike, hold, and rest phases are metered in the running state 209 as described above (as opposed to the stretched duration).

According to various aspects of the present invention, the launch device may support a multi-function operator configurable set selected from an open set of functions. The open set of functions may include programmable control of the stimulus signal generator. The operator configuration of the selected function may include field installation of a set of modules in communication with the processor of the launch device. Operator selection may be based on meeting the expected mix of applications for the electronic weapon system as described above. When multiple units of an electronic weapon system are involved in tactical operation, a mixture of electronic weapon system configurations may be used to achieve tactical operation more efficiently. In order to achieve some or all of these functional capabilities, the launch device according to various aspects of the present invention includes an interface that accommodates the absence of an open set of functions. The interface supports the transfer of software from the member to the processing circuit 130 to support the member function and integrate it into the operation of the electronic weapon system.

For example, the launch device 300 of FIG. 3 may include a structure that performs all of the functions described above with respect to the launch device 102 and further facilitates a multi-functional electronic weapon system. The launch device 300 includes a built-in function 310 connected to the processing circuit 130, a tactical function bus 306 connected to the processing circuit 130, a deployment unit I / O function 332, and Processing circuit 130. The tactical function bus 306 provides power and communication signals between the processing circuit 130, the open set 328 of auxiliary functions, the memory 326, and the stimulus signal generator 330. Since the processing circuit 130 and the stimulus signal generator 330 are coupled to the bus 306, the secondary function coupled to the bus 306 may be configured to obtain a state, report a state, or make adjustments to the configuration. Both processing circuit 130 and stimulus signal generator 330 may be accessed for the purpose of including executing, and executing control. Launch device 300 constitutes a platform for application specific electronic weapons and multiple application electronic weapons. A plurality of units (and possibly a unique set of auxiliary functions) having the function of the launch device 300 may be used cooperatively, and may cooperate automatically to achieve the tactical purpose.

Built-in function 310 includes control 312, display 314, audio I / O 316, data I / O 318, and rechargeable subassembly 321. The components of the built-in function 310 may communicate with the processing circuit 130 using conventional circuitry and software. Control 312 and display 314 execute operator interface 200 (120, 122) described above. In various other implementations in accordance with the present invention, the built-in function 310 is one of the functions discussed with respect to the auxiliary function 328 and / or any of the functions of the rechargeable subassembly discussed with respect to the rechargeable subassembly 321. It may include anything or all.

Audio I / O 316 includes conventional microphones and conventional speakers with digital conversion suitable for use by processing circuit 130. The audio output is the operator of launch device 300 (e.g., at a volume level similar to a cellular phone), and the other operator (e.g., tactical and reinforcement personnel) (e.g., at a volume level similar to police radio). Or may be directed to a target and a potential target (eg, at a volume level similar to a public address system). The speaker may be omitted in the implementation where recording is desired without audio output. Audio input may be delivered (eg, live streaming) and / or stored (eg, for later download, delivery, or analysis).

Data I / O 318 implements data communication function 124 as described above. Data I / O 318 may include a buffer memory for holding received information that queues messages to be sent when data communication links become available and awaits access by processing circuit 130. Data I / O 318 may monitor the availability of a potential communication link and automatically receive and / or send queued messages.

Rechargeable subassembly 321 includes a memory 320, a battery 322, a camera 324, each of which is coupled to a bus 304. Components of the rechargeable subassembly 321 may communicate with the bus 304 using the processing circuit 130. Since the rechargeable subassembly 321 may often be removed or replaced for recharging, the bus 304 creates a mechanical and electrical reliable interconnection between the rechargeable subassembly 321 and the processing circuit 130. . Bus 304 includes a communication signal and a power signal. Appropriate transmitter and receiver circuitry may be used for launch device 300 and chargeable subassembly 321 when bus 304 coupling includes wireless coupling. In one embodiment, the power signal is coupled to launch device 300 using a magnetic circuit (eg, inductive coupling) for wireless transfer of energy. When the rechargeable subassembly 321 is removed from the firing device 300 and positioned in a charging cradle (not shown), the inductive coupling is from the cradle to the battery 322 to recharge the battery 322. Support the wireless transfer of energy. The communication signal may be coupled by magnetic, electrostatic, wireless, and / or optical circuitry from the bus 304 to either the launch device 300 or the cradle. For the operation of launch device 300 and rechargeable subassembly 321 in harsh environments with the risk of dust and liquid contamination, magnetic coupling of power signals and wireless communication of communication signals are desirable.

The deployment unit I / O 332 each includes a magazine having an indicator and / or a memory as described above and / or including a plurality of cartridges each having an indicator and / or a memory as described above. Cooperate with the above deployment unit. The deployment unit I / O 332 executes the launch control function and configuration report of the deployment unit control unit 140 described above. The deployment unit I / O 332 includes circuitry and software or firmware that periodically determines the configuration of the installed deployment unit, reports the latest results of the determination, or makes the processing circuit 130 accessible. It may also include.

The assist function includes any function that improves the effectiveness of the launch device with any tactical operation. For example, the launch device 300 may include a bus 306 and various ports provided by the bus such that any auxiliary function packaged as a module may be installed in one of the various ports. A preferred set of operators may be installed in the auxiliary module to cooperate with and cooperate with the launch device 300 as described above. Auxiliary functions form an open set so that new modules may be designed to be accommodated in one or more ports in the future to perform additional auxiliary functions.

In one embodiment, the launch device 300 provides one port to the bus 306. One or more auxiliary functions are executed in each set of operator replaceable modules. Any one module is attached to the port. Each module may provide a subsequent port for receiving other modules in the set.

The location system function is an auxiliary function that determines the physical location of the module and consequently the physical location of the launch device. For example, a conventional Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver may be integrated into the position system module 328 with suitable port interface circuitry and software. Cooperation between the processor and the GPS module 328 facilitates the inclusion of a physical location at a specific date and time (eg, when a major function is performed) in collaboration with data stored or communicated by the processing circuit 130. You can also The cooperation of the GPS module 328, the processing circuit 130, and the stimulus signal generator 330 may be based on the presence of an arc in which there is a cause of fire present in a portion of the facility, which is in the physical location (eg, within the scope of jurisdiction). To facilitate the tailoring of the stimulus signal program. The cooperation of the GPS module 328, the processing circuit 130, and the data I / O function 318 or the RF link assistance module 328 facilitates the use of a particular communication channel, technology, or transmit signal power suitable for the physical location. You can also

The user identification function is an auxiliary function that determines the information that contributes to identifying the operator of the launch device. For example, conventional personal identification techniques may be incorporated into a User Identification (UID) module 328 with suitable port interface circuitry and software. Personal identification techniques include thumb fingerprints, retinal scans, speech recognition, and other biological sensor technologies. In other embodiments, conventional bar code, badge, and RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) tag technologies may be used. RFID tags can be used for jewelry (eg, rings, bracelets, necklaces, watches), clothes (eg, badges, patches, buttons, belt buckles, belts, gloves, helmets), or personal electronic devices (eg, Cellular telephones, police radios, emergency alerts). The tag may be passive or include a transmitter or transponder. In one embodiment, data I / O 318 further includes a receiver and / or a transmitter used to detect indicia of operator identification.

The cooperation of the UID module 328, the processing circuit 130, and the stimulus signal generator 330 may be based on user identification (eg, training, consumption, security, law enforcement, and military applications may be different). Tailoring the signal. In other words, the same launch device may be fired at different users and each may automatically generate the appropriate stimulus program.

Cooperation of the UID module 328 and the stimulus signal generator function may perform disabling of stimulus signal generation in the absence of an authenticated UID. The authenticated UID may be stored (eg, in memory 320 and / or 326) for comparison with the detected UID. Detection of attempted operation in the absence of an authenticated UID stores and / or transmits audio, video, and / or data (eg, time, date, location by GPS) (eg, via an RF link). May be initiated. Storage and / or transmission helps to authenticate by tracking the handling of the launch device by unauthorized persons.

Memory (or memory 326 or 320) that is part of the UID module 328 may be used to list registered user identification. Registration may be accomplished via software loaded via the operator interface or from memory 320. Registration may be individual or general (eg, all members of the police force are allowed to use the firing device on any other member of the police force). If an attempt to use the launch device 300 is made by an unregistered user (eg, no user identification is detected by the UID module 328 or a mismatch occurs), the launch device 300 is sent to the operator. It may also advise and block some or all functions (for example, block all major functions but enable data communication over the RF link or otherwise authorize reporting of location and user identification (if any)).

The RF link function is an auxiliary function for communication between launch devices, for communicating with a conventional RF accessible information system, or for wireless data communication in cooperation with data I / O 318 as described above. For example, conventional wireless transmitters and receivers may be integrated into the auxiliary module 328 with appropriate port interface circuitry and software. The RF link module 328 may facilitate the exchange of information between the launch device and any server or user on the Internet.

Data that may be sent from launch device 300 may include a broadcast or an answer to a question. Data includes user identification, launch device identification, time and date, operation of controls (e.g., setting and disabling safety, trigger, stimulus, range priority), control of auxiliary functions (e.g., camera on / off, Laser field of view on / off), and / or device device (eg, battery capacity, deployment unit residual performance). Data communication by means of an RF link may serve to synchronize time and date in launch device 300 having privileged master authority over time and date (eg, station headquarters, tactical lead launch device, Remote tactics headquarters, cellular telephone network, wireless-based authorization (GPS, WWV)). Communication over the RF link may serve to enable and / or disable the use of certain functions of the launch device 300.

The cooperation of one or more RF links, processing circuits 130, and audio I / O functions 316, particularly if the RF link performance has a multi-directional antenna used in accordance with conventional ad hoc network technology, launch device 300 ) All conventional cordless phones, network terminals, and network node functions (e.g., wireless dispatch, secure voice communications, public cellular telephones, emergency communications network terminals or nodes, ad hoc network terminals or nodes between launch devices, And a hub such as a cell phone tower).

The RF link is capable of porting audio I / O to / from a remote headset or helmet having a microphone and / or speaker functionally replacing the microphone and speaker of the audio I / O function 316 for recording by the launch device 300. Higher quality audio input and / or audio output from more appreciable launch device 300.

The camera function is an auxiliary function for video video recording. Video recording may be associated with the use of key functions. For example, a conventional video camera may be integrated into camera module 328 with appropriate port interface circuitry and software. The cooperation of the camera module 328, the processing circuit 130, and the memory 320 or 326 share the same functionality that is available in the camera 324 when the rechargeable subassembly 321 is executed without the camera 324. It may be easy. The camera 324 may operate simultaneously with the camera module 328, eg, for different fields of view or viewing angles and / or for different sensitivity (eg, infrared, visible, polarized, filtered). The camera function 324, 328 cooperates with the RF link function 328 to perform the broadcasting of the recorded video in live or any conventional format (eg, file transfer, live streaming). Broadcasting may facilitate use by other launching devices (eg, due to live viewing). Broadcast to the tactical station may facilitate live viewing, analysis, and / or recording. Broadcast or download to the archive station may form or maintain a record of force usage.

The use of a force recorder (or transmitter) may omit the deployment unit 332 and stimulus signal generator 330 functions, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. For example, use of a force recorder (or transmitter) may include audio and / or video recording and download (or transmission) capability. In other implementations, the use of a force recorder (transmitter) may include audio I / O 316, processing circuit 130, cameras 324, 328, RF links 328, illumination 328, as discussed herein. And a range finder function.

The illumination function is an auxiliary function that illuminates the desired target or area by the operator (eg, map reading light). Conventional illuminators may be integrated into the illumination module 328 with appropriate port interface circuitry and software. The light directed by the processing circuit 130 is aimed at the electronic weapon system towards the target, bright flash of light, emergency light signaling as required for improved use of the camera 324 or camera module 328. It may also be easy to confuse it with, and / or lighting.

Other auxiliary functions (not shown) include range finder functions and target identification functions. The range finder estimates the distance from a particular cartridge (or firing unit) to a particular target. Processing circuit 130 may provide a description of a particular cartridge via bus 306. The particular cartridge may be identified by the user, according to application / tactical operation, or according to the result (eg, circularly) of the rangefinder function. If all cartridges are in one position, identification of a particular cartridge may be omitted. The range finder function may include any conventional range sensing and measurement technique. For example, pulse energy (e.g., audio, radio, or laser light) may be reflected by the target and the distance determined from the propagation delay from the transmitted pulse is transmitted to the received reflected input signal. Output the signal. The target may be identified by the processing circuit 130 (eg, using a camera and / or illumination function) or by a rangefinder function (eg, a conventional laser spot on the target).

The processing circuit may include a conventionally stored program machine executed by conventional circuitry, firmware, and operating system software. For example, processing circuit 130 may be implemented as a single microprocessor or microcontroller. Processing circuit 130 performs methods for configuration management, primary and / or secondary function enablement / disable, cartridge selection for primary function, stimulus tailoring, data recording, and data communication.

The method for configuration management performed by the processing circuit 130 in accordance with various aspects of the present invention includes, in any practical order, the following one or more operations: (a) determining a functional description of the operational stimulus signal generator 330; (b) determining a functional description of the operational assistance function 328; (c) determining a functional description of the operational deployment unit; (d) software that supports the actuation signal generator, actuation assistance functions, and / or actuation deployment units may include memory 320, 326, memory of processing circuit 130 (not shown), For data communications buffered or available via memory and data I / O 318, determining whether they are available and recent; (e) updating the software in the program memory accessible to the processing circuit 130 as required; (f) performing a non-destructive functional test on any or all functions of the launch device 300; (g) storing the function description information in any of the memories 320, 326 and the memory of the deployment unit; And (h) communicating data buffered or available via the memory 320, 326, the memory of the deployment unit, and the data I / O 318.

The method for enabling / disabling primary and / or secondary functions performed by the processing circuit 130 in accordance with various aspects of the present invention may, in any practical order, comprise one or more of the following operations: (a) Determining (eg, to reduce the likelihood of equalization control during the enabled primary function); (b) environmental factors (e.g., temperature, presence of humidity, humidity) to determine whether the environment is suitable for the primary or secondary function to be performed (or adjustments may be made for the intended function). Determining; (c) advising the operator of the enabled function and the function available to be enabled as directed by the operator; (d) advising the operator of the disabled function and the disabled function as directed by the operator; And (e) executing a method for an operator interface that determines whether an operator designation function has been requested to be performed.

The method for cartridge selection performed by the processing circuit 130 in accordance with various aspects of the present invention includes the following one or more operations in any practical order: (a) determining a description of all operating cartridges; (b) determining operator preferences for remote impact capability performance (eg, range of effective distance, selection of electrode type suitable for the target's clothing); (c) advising the operator when the operator's preferences are not met (eg, when the operator wants a long effective distance but all the cartridges in operation have a short effective distance capability); (d) determining the firing order for the cartridge being operated according to the description of the cartridge being operated, the operator's preference, and the firing order policy; And (e) cooperating with the deployment unit to activate the cartridge during a particular operation. The firing order policy may be executed in program logic. The firing order policy may rely on the presence of appropriate operator preferences or may be intended to resolve ambiguities in exceptional cases (eg, operators prefer medium effective distances but only short and long distance cartridges are operating, When the effective distance cartridge is used). Operator preference may be indicated in any conventional manner and / or in a "range" preference control as discussed herein.

Stimulus signals in accordance with various aspects of the present invention may include stimulus signals having one or more stimulus subprograms, compliance signal groups, and / or compliance signals. For purposes of example and clarity of presentation, consider the stimulus program 420 and component parts shown in FIGS. 4A-4D. In FIG. 4A, two stimulus programs 402, 404 are shown.

The stimulus program 402 constitutes a warning step. The stimulus program 402 may perform the operation of warning control. The warning step of one embodiment does not electrically stimulate the target. Nevertheless, the warning step eliminates the need for an additional warning function circuit using a stimulus signal generator to provide an arc across the terminals of the electronic weapon system 100 for the warning function as described above. The warning step of the first embodiment does not provide a current through the tissue of the target (eg, the warning function terminal is not located on the open surface of the electronic weapon system 100). The warning step of another embodiment provides a warning function and also provides a local shock function with current flowing through the tissue of the target. In a preferred embodiment, the stimulus signal generator is used to provide a warning function and is suitable for a warning arc and as a local impact function for conducting strike or hold phase current through the target's tissue.

The stimulation program 404 consists of five steps in sequence: the strike stage (time T1 to time T2), the rest stage (time T2 to time T3), the hold stage (time T3 to time T4), the other stage of rest (time T4). To time T5), and the hold step (time T5 to time T6). Stimulus program 404 may perform the operation of trigger control. As mentioned above, the relative duration of a step may not be as shown and some may be extended in duration 406.

An advice step is shown in the following stimulus program 404 to illustrate the ad hoc step.

The stimulus program includes any suitable sequence of stimulus subprograms. According to various aspects of the present invention, a library of stimulus subprograms may be defined and stored in the memory of the electronic weapon system 100. For example, the library of stimulus subprogram 420 may include a warning subprogram 422, a strike1 subprogram 424, a strike2 subprogram 426, and a hold1 HOLD1. Subprogram 428, Hold2 (HOLD2) Subprogram 430, Hold3 (HOLD3) Subprogram 432, Advice1 (ADVISE1) Subprogram 434, and Advice2 (ADVISE2) Subprogram 436 It includes. Each subprogram (eg, 422) includes one or more compliance signal groups (eg, 440).

The compliance signal group (eg, 442) includes a plurality of compliance signals (eg, 460). For example, when all compliance signals are the same and are regularly separated in chronological order, the compliance signal group (eg, 442, 444) may be characterized by repeatability. In other embodiments, the compliance signal group may be characterized by the diversity of different compliance signals (e.g., for different purposes, such as primarily to cause pain and / or primarily to interfere with skeletal muscle), and the variety of separation (e.g., increased) , Decrease, increase and decrease, random).

The compliance signal (eg, 462) may be sufficient to ionize the air in the interposed air gap, cause pain that the target will feel, and / or interfere with control of one or more of its skeletal muscles of the target. When the compliance signal causes pain and / or causes contraction of skeletal muscle, the duration of pain and / or contraction may define a period of time referred to as the effective duration of the compliance signal. The effective duration may be defined based on the waveform of the compliance signal entering the model of the organization of the standard target. Standard targets may have an average characteristic of a population of typical targets. The inventor has found that a resistance (RB) of about 400 ohms is a suitable model for adult targets with good health and not under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

The compliance signal may have a waveform that matches the resonant circuit response that drives the load. The resonant circuit driving the load may provide a waveform of a type known as underdamping 462, a waveform known as critical attenuation 464, or a type of waveform known as transient attenuation 466. The change in appearance between these types is likely to depend on the resonant circuit and the load. In the model of the organization of the standard targets described above, the waveform provided by the circuits disclosed herein is generally underdamped.

The waveform across the RB may include a series of portions that each appear as underdamped, critically damped, and overdamped. Coupling (eg, shaped) waveforms may be applied to a first circuit configuration (according to FIG. 8A with a closed switch SWA) to generate an arc to complete a circuit that conducts a stimulus current through the target's tissue. due to; And a second circuit arrangement (eg according to FIG. 8B with a closed switch SWB) to maintain the stimulus current flow. The source impedance and load of the first configuration may be different from the source impedance and load of the second configuration. In addition, the tissue of the target object may exhibit load changes (eg, different resistances) as a function of current, charge, and / or local heating generated by the current. As a result, the waveform may appear under-damped, critically damped, or over-damped during operation of the first configuration and may appear under-damped, critically damped, or over-damped during the second configuration. The configuration may change in response to any switching technique (eg, spark gap, semiconductor switch) disclosed herein.

In general, the compliance signal group (eg, 442) achieves the purpose of the step (eg, strike, hold, advice). The compliance signal (eg, 462) may be tailored at an intensity (eg, amount, ratio, or amplitude of energy, current, voltage, or charge). As a result, the compliance signal group 440 may include a uniform compliance signal 444 or a series of different compliance signals 442, 446. In general, stronger compliance signals result in higher energy consumption from the launch device. Relatively higher intensity compliance signals may be suitable for stopping the target. The relatively low intensity compliance signal may be sufficient to advise the target to follow the operator of the launch device through anxiety and / or pain as opposed to being sufficient to significantly interfere with the use of that skeletal muscle of the target. One or more compliance signal groups of a stimulus subprogram may be the same or may form a series of different compliance signal groups. Changes in compliance signal 460, compliance signal group 440, stimulus subprogram 420, and stimulus program 440 may respond to estimated battery capacity to maintain battery capacity.

The compliance signal may be interleaving or serial. For example, a higher and lower intensity compliance signal 446 may be delivered to the same target. As another example, a series of compliance signals may be delivered simultaneously to multiple targets. As another example, a series of compliance signals may be delivered to several targets, each target receiving a series of subsequent compliance signals. For example, a compliance signal received by each target (eg, one pulse per target) may have pulse repeatability, and as a result, a series of pulse repeatability results in multiple pulses each received by the target. It may also be repeatability.

The method of stimulus tailoring performed by the processing circuit 130 in accordance with various aspects of the present invention includes the following one or more operations in any practical order: (a) determining the operator's privileges regarding the right to specify tailoring of the stimulus signal; (b) determining a description of all cartridges in operation; (c) determining operator preferences for local stun function performance; (d) determining an operator preference for remote impact capability performance; (e) determining the operating performance of the launch device; (f) advising the operator when the operator's preferences cannot be satisfied (eg, when the operator prefers a stimulus greater than the performance of the cartridge being operated or a stimulus greater than the launch device performance); (g) tailored stimulus programs, stimulus subprograms, compliance subprograms, compliance signal groups with uniform compliance signals, and / or compliance signals of varying intensity (e.g., linear decrease, linear increase, high Determining a compliance signal group having an intersection of intensity and low intensity, and specifying a small intensity profile; Storing and / or communicating a description of the tailored stimulus program in association with the identification of the operator; And giving control to a stimulus signal generator to achieve a tailored stimulus program.

The method of data recording performed by the processing circuit 130 in accordance with various aspects of the present invention may comprise, in any substantial order, one or more of the following operations: (a) outputting an audible prompt to the operator regarding information from the operator; (b) receiving a voice response by the operator; (c) storing or communicating the voice response; (d) determining a symbol corresponding to the voice response; And (e) storing or communicating the symbol. Data recording may be desirable for so-called 'use of force' reporting associated with the operation of the launch device. The prompt may be a shortened hint of the entire request for information presented with a written instruction sheet used by the operator to achieve 'use of force' reporting. When the prompt is a complete request for information, the written command sheet does not need to be used. A similar operator interface may be implemented to allow for review and editing of voice responses in connection with some of the conventional reporter's memo recorders. Communication of the voice response or symbolic voice response may be buffered as described above. The storing and / or communication may include associating an operator's identification with information to be stored or communicated.

The method of data communication performed by the processing circuit 130 in accordance with various aspects of the present invention may comprise, in any substantial order, one or more of the following operations: (a) determining an identification of an operator of the launch device; (b) determining an identification of the launch device; (c) determining the physical location of the launch device; (d) determining whether the link is available for communication; (e) receiving a request for information from the communication link; (f) preparing information including identification of one or more (or all) operators, identification of the launch device, and physical location of the launch device; And (g) transmitting the information on the link. To determine whether a link is available for communication, the launch device 300 may be used with a cradle (not shown) that links the optical I / O of the cradle with the optical I / O of the display 314. Bus 304 provides a wireless link for data communication with a cradle (not shown) that also provides energy recharging for battery 322 without removing rechargeable subassembly 321 from launch device 300. It may be extended.

The launch device according to various aspects of the present invention includes an operator controller positioned for convenient and intuitive use by the operator. For example, the pistol-type firing device 500 of FIGS. 5 and 6 includes a body 501, a handle 502, a safety control 504, a trigger control 506, a stimulus control 508, an operator preference control ( 510, menu control 512, cartridge ejection control 514, laser target illuminator 516, a plurality of cartridges 522, 524, 526 installed on the front 520 of the firing device 500, handle 502 A rechargeable subassembly 532 installed at the bottom 530 of the module, a module bay 540 having a port for installation of the module (such as the lighting module 542 shown), and a display 602 (FIG. 6). In Figure 5, cartridges 522, 524, and 526 are shown without a front cover for each cartridge. As a result, a circular delivery tube and an elliptical wire reservoir for the electrode can be seen. If all three cartridges have been consumed, the device 500 appears as shown with one filament wire extending from each elliptical wire reservoir. Each cartridge 522, 524, and 526 has two terminals (not shown), one for each wire reservoir to support the arc with two respective terminals of the launch device 500 as shown. do. Terminals 535 and 536 of launch device 500 are symmetrically positioned with respect to cartridge 526 and support an arc for cartridge 526. The terminals for the cartridges 522, 524 are symmetrically located for analogue function.

According to various aspects of the present invention, the safety control 504 may be implemented as two position turning levers next to each side of the main body 501. By placing a small magnet inside each lever, and by placing a reed relay inside the body 501 at the edge of the rotational movement of each lever, detection of the position of the lever without including the hermetic seal of the body 501 May be achieved. In another embodiment, the levers next to each other are mechanically connected to each other and move like a single body, with the magnetic component omitted for one of the levers.

According to various aspects of the present invention, the lever may perform one or more controls. For example, the position of the lever 504 may implement a combination of functions for safety control 504 and operator preference control 510. For example, the operator preference function may indicate a “range” (effective distance) preference of the type discussed with respect to control 510. The three positions are as follows: (1) safety on; (2) locations with short safety off and range preferences; And (3) safety off and range preference may be the same. Control 510 may be omitted or used for different preferences (eg, stimulus tailoring preferences, lighting preferences, radio link preferences) or for different controls (eg, separation of alert function from stimulus functions as described above). It may be.

Trigger control 506 in accordance with various aspects of the present invention may be implemented as a two position rotary lever pivoted to an axis in body 501 and equipped with a spring return to mimic the feel of a conventional pistol. The removable portion of the trigger control unit 506 may include a magnet in the body 501 for activation of the lead relay, so that detection of the position of the lever may be achieved without including an airtight seal of the body 501. The operator sets the control by pulling the trigger lever toward the handle 502 and releases the control by releasing the trigger lever.

The magnetic pole control unit 508 according to various aspects of the present invention is implemented as a spring return button in two positions with a magnet in the removable portion and a lead relay in the body 501 to not include an airtight seal of the body 501. Detection of the position of the button may be achieved without. Operationally, the stimulus control unit 508 is thought of as a momentary contact switch normally open to the operator. The operator presses the button toward the main body 501 to set the control and releases the button to release the control.

The operator preference control 510 according to various aspects of the present invention is implemented as a spring return button in two positions with a magnet in the removable portion and a lead relay in the body 501 to include an airtight seal of the body 501. Detection of the position of the button may be achieved. The operator presses the button toward the main body 501 to set the control and releases the button to release the control.

The menu control 512 may be executed in a similar manner as the operator preference control 510.

The cartridge ejection control unit 514 (e.g., release button) mechanically releases the cartridge retaining latches for all cartridges of the front side 520. The operator may choose to remove the cartridge (eg, spent cartridge 522) or replace and reinstall the cartridge (eg, replacing short-range cartridge 524 with a long-range cartridge).

Target illumination may be provided by laser or general illumination (eg, concentrated light, floodlight). For example, laser illumination to identify a particular target (for tactical adjustment, launch aiming, and / or to provide context for video recording that other law enforcement officials can see) is provided by the laser target illuminator 516. And / or auxiliary lighting functions 328, 540. Laser target illumination 516, 540 may cooperate with the distance finder function described above. For example, any suitably modulated illumination may be provided by the laser 516 for approval by the photo detector of the auxiliary module in the bay 540.

The handle 502 has a cavity for receiving a rechargeable subassembly 532 above the bottom 530 of the handle. In one embodiment, the rechargeable assembly includes a camera (not shown) having a lens facing the target.

Display 602 displays any of the information described above (eg, operational information, configuration information, status, battery capacity, test results, visual prompts, information to display and for selecting and reviewing and / or modifying configuration settings to modify). menu). Display 602 may be used as an optical I / O transmitter and / or receiver for data communication function 124, 318 as described above.

The microphone transmits or receives audio from an operator's voice (e.g., an impromptu tactical conversation, a response to a prompt, audio directed to a target), an ambient sound, or a voice from a target's command. You can also record One or more microphones (not shown) may be located on one or both of the surfaces 604 symmetrically arranged above the display 602. A microphone (not shown) may be positioned on the front side 520 that reacts sensitively along an axis towards the target.

The speaker may provide an audio prompt to the operator, to the tactical assistant for the operator, or to a target (eg, a warning or public speaking). Surface 604 or 606 may include one or more speakers (not shown) (eg, symmetric about the center of body 501). The first or one or more additional speakers may be located later in the module bay 540, on the side of the body 501 under the stimulus control unit 508, or on the underside of the body 501. Conventional omni-directional audio radiators may be used at any of the above locations for the transmission and reception of sound directed at the operator, target, or both.

Deployment unit control provides circuitry to interact with the digital control from processing circuit 130 and circuitry to interact with one or more deployment units having indicators and cartridges. The interface between the processing and deployment unit control function may include a charge control signal, a stimulus control signal, and a firing signal. For example, by including a charge control signal 724 that is functionally independent of the stimulus control signal 726, the compliance signal 460, the compliance signal group 440, the stimulus subprogram 420, and the stimulus program 410. The stimulus program tailoring is facilitated by the processing circuit 130 including the specification of a parameter that defines or modifies one or more of According to various aspects of the present invention, the deployment unit control unit 140 of FIGS. 1 and 7 may include a charging function unit 702, a storage function unit 704, a discharge function unit 706, a launch circuit 708, And a detector 710. Launch circuit 708 may provide a signal 730 and operate as described above with respect to launch control 144. Detector 710 may provide signal 732 and operate as described above with respect to detector 143. The charging function 702, the storage function 704, and the discharge function 706 may cooperate to execute the stimulus signal generator as described above. Processing circuit 130 is a digital (eg, due to analog digital conversion) feedback signal (not shown) from charging function 702, storage function 704, and / or discharge function 706. May be received. Processing circuit 130 receives other feedback information, including cartridge status 730, 732.

According to various aspects of the present invention, the charging function receives battery power and provides energy to the energy store at a voltage higher than the battery power without exceeding the current and voltage capacity of the battery. The circuitry performing the charging function may provide the duty cycle, pulse repeatability, and energy of the pulse with each pulse amplitude. These parameters may be uniform through charging or may be adjusted by the processing circuit in response to the detected state of the battery and the detected state of the storage function. Charging in response to the charging command meaning of the charging control signal may be accomplished for one of the compliance signals or for a set of compliance signals. In one embodiment, charging function 702 receives battery power signal 722 and charging control signal 724 to provide energy to storage function 704. The charge control signal 724 may include one or more digital and / or analog signals to convey the specification to the charging function 702.

According to various aspects of the present invention, the storage function receives the energy to be stored from the charging function and accumulates the received energy for discharging. Storage may be accomplished using inductive or capacitive components. For example, storage function 704 includes one or more capacitors, collectively referred to as capacitance.

According to various aspects of the present invention, the discharge function receives energy from the storage function and provides energy in response to one or more compliance signals for the deployment unit for the stimulus control signal, the local stun function or the remote stun function. . The circuitry performing the discharge function may provide a compliance signal as specified by a stimulus program, stimulus subprogram, compliance signal group, or processing circuit. The parameters of the stimulus program, stimulus subprogram, compliance signal group, and compliance signal may be delivered to the discharge function by the stimulus control signal. For example, the processing circuit 130 having information of the voltage and capacitance of the storage 704 (eg, by software configuration settings, by feedback signal) may be the amplitude and / or amplitude of one or more compliance signals. The duration may be specified and this specification may be communicated to the discharge function 706 via the stimulus control signal 726. The discharge control signal 726 may include one or more digital and / or analog signals for conveying the specification to the discharge function 706. The amplitude and duration of one embodiment is sufficient to transfer about 100 microcoulombs of charge per compliance signal into the target's tissue when desired to interfere with control of its skeletal muscle of the target. The compliance signal group may be characterized by repeatability of the compliance signal of about 15 to 19 per second for a duration of about 5 to 10 seconds when desired to interfere with the control of its skeletal muscle of the target. Less charge transferred per compliance signal, less compliance signal per second, and / or shorter duration of the compliance signal group may constitute an appropriate compliance (eg, warning) that affects the target.

The compliance signal couples energy from the first capacitance of the storage 704 at a first voltage suitable for building one or more arcs to complete the circuit through the target, and after sufficient time has elapsed for arc formation, It may be generated by the discharge function 706 by coupling energy from the second capacitance at a second voltage that is a voltage lower than the first voltage to convey the remainder of the compliance signal. Discharge in response to the discharge command meaning of the discharge control signal may be achieved for one of the compliance signals or for a set of compliance signals.

Each compliance signal when applied to a target may exhibit underdamped, critically damped, or overdamped electrical waveform characteristics. 8A and 8B show simplified electrical models of the storage and discharge functions 800, 801 connected by a deployment unit to a target for remote impact functionality. The components of FIGS. 8A and 8B are electrically perfect as are typical for circuitry for modeling electrical phenomena. In FIG. 8A, the primary circuit 802 includes a capacitance CA of a storage function coupled via a switch SWA to a main part of a step-up transformer model TD having a primary winding resistance RP. . Capacitance CA stores energy at voltage VA according to equation 0.5 * CA * VA ² . The secondary circuit 804 is a filament of a deployment unit modeled as a secondary transformer (TD), a resistor (RF) and a capacitance (CF) with a secondary winding resistance (RS) (e.g., Tether wire connecting the discharge function to the electrode stabbing the skin), and target resistance modeled as RB. Terminals E1 and E2 correspond to electrodes which are launched toward the target and finally stop near or within the target. At the voltage and current of a suitable compliance signal, the human body has little electrical resistance, but the value of RB differs in amplitude, waveform, and repeatability. The coupling effect of all the gaps to be bridged before transferring charge to the target is shown as the model spark gap (G). The energy stored for the delivery of the compliance signal is dispersed in the resistor RB rather than as a whole; Note that the voltage across RB is the result of voltage dividers including RS, RF, and RB. The model of FIG. 8B shows the electrical state after the spark gap has performed the formation of a complete circuit through the tissue of the target. Here, the capacitance model CD of the storage function is coupled via the switch model SWB via the secondary winding of the transformer model TD. Capacitance CD stores energy at voltage VD according to equation 0.5 * CA * VA ² . The compliance signal waveform may have an underdamped, critically damped, or overdamped waveform modeled in the secondary circuit 804, which is different from the overdamped, critically damped, or underdamped waveform modeled in the circuit 806. Pay attention. As before, the stored energy for the transfer of the rest of the compliance signal is distributed in the resistor RB rather than as a whole.

8A and 8B may be applied to the local impact function with omission of the resistance and capacitance of the filament wire to the electrode. In particular, RF and CF may be omitted. Terminals E1 and E2 of the model corresponding to the terminal correspond to terminals reaching or touching the target.

In accordance with various aspects of the present invention, the deployment unit controller may be implemented as described above using the circuit technique shown in FIGS. 9-16. The deployment unit control of FIG. 9 includes a charging function unit 702, a storage function unit 704, and a discharge function unit 706. The discharge function 706 provides a plurality of pairs of conductors 911, 912 (not shown) 916, which are part of the interface 107, to one or more deployment units 104 as described above. In FIG. 9, storage function 704 is implemented with three capacitances each having a different plate-plate voltage. In one embodiment, the windings W1, W2, and W3 have respective nominal voltage specifications of 2000, 1000, and 2000 volts with the winding W3 on the opposite pole relative to the windings W1 and W2. Windings W1 and W2 in series provide charge pulses with amplitude (s) up to about 3000 volt peak to charge capacitance C6 up to about 3000 volts. Windings W2 and W3 in series provide charge pulses with amplitude (s) up to about -3000 volt peak to charge capacitance C5 up to about -3000 volts. Winding W2 provides a charge pulse with amplitude (s) up to about 1000 volt peak to charge capacitance C4 up to about 1000 volts. The voltages of capacitances C4, C5, and C6 are sampled and fed back to the processing circuit 130. The validity of the charging may be determined by the processing circuit 130. The prediction of the brown-out state of the battery 322 may be calculated by the processing circuit 130. As a result, adjustment of the charge pulse amplitude, stimulus program, stimulus subprogram, compliance signal group, or compliance signal strength may reduce the risk of potential voltage drops. In addition, a policy may be followed instead of operator preference; Notification to the operator may be provided when no operator preference follows.

The launch control circuit in accordance with various aspects of the present invention may provide indicia of readiness 730 for each of the various cartridges and respond to the digital launch control signal 728 for each launch. For example, the launch control circuit 1000 of FIG. 10 includes a digital feedback circuit and a plurality of deployment circuits A through N 1002.

Any conventional digital feedback circuit may include a comparator (eg, a window or threshold between limits), an A / D converter 1004 (shown), or an A / D, D / A, and / or comparator function. It may also be used to provide launch data (including cartridge status, such as stress indicia), including a containing microcontroller.

Each deployment circuit has a current (e.g., less than about 1000 volts, preferably about 300, of sufficient current to activate a conventional flame primer (modeled as R _{PRIMER -A} to R _{PRIMER -N)} as described above. Provide a relatively low voltage pulse (with a peak voltage amplitude of less than volts, such as about 150 volts). The processing circuit 130 has independent control of each flame A to N. The processing circuit 130 may monitor the resistance of each primer to identify whether each primer is ready, whether it has been consumed, and / or identify the functional performance of the cartridge (eg, the electrical characteristics may be Or an indicator 112 describing the cartridge as discussed herein).

In other embodiments in accordance with various aspects of the present embodiments, the detection characteristics of the primer provide both firing and indicator functions. For example, R _PRIMER may be an impedance Z _PRIMER having electrical characteristics that serve as indicator 112 as described above. Electrical characteristics may be determined using impulse, pulse, frequency, or frequency sweep waveforms. Conventional detector 143 in terms of amplitude, phase, or frequency may be used to determine indicia associated with the cartridge or magazine in which Z _PRIMER is located. Memory 320, 326 may include a table that cross-references electrical characteristics with suitable description of the cartridge.

Stimulus control circuitry in accordance with various aspects of the present invention may provide a relatively high voltage compliance signal as detected by processing circuit 130. For example, the stimulus control signal 1100 of FIG. 11 responds to a plurality of stimulus control signals that are for each pair of terminals or electrodes. Stimulus control circuit 1100 includes a plurality of stimulus circuits 1102, each supporting a pair of terminals or electrodes for local or remote stun function. Each stimulation circuit 1104, 1106 has a step-up transformer TD1106, TD1126 having a primer winding and a pair of secondary windings. Each primer winding is in series with an independent SCR Q1106, Q1126 that acts like a switch. The gate of each SCR is driven by respective stimulus control signals A to N amplified by transistor circuits composed of Q1102 and R1102 to provide gate signals SCA (Q1104 and R1104 which provide SCN). Each secondary circuit includes a secondary winding of a transformer coupled to a source of stored energy (eg, capacitance C5 or C6) from one side and coupled to a terminal or an electrode from the other. As a result, for example, when the stimulus control signal STIMULUS CONTROL _A is insisted, SCR Q1106 causes a third source of stored energy (eg, capacitance C4) to discharge through one primer winding. As a result of the initial discharge, a high voltage pulse (eg, about 50,000 volts) is available across the terminal or electrode 911 to ionize air in any air gap in series with the terminals or electrode. After ionization, capacitances C5 and C6 pass discharge current through the ionized air and through the target. Note that the same set of capacitors may be reused for each desired stimulus circuit signal (eg, 911 and / or 916). As a result, providing stimuli to several targets is achieved by insisting a stimulus control signal for each target in turn. The compliance signal group or stimulus subprogram may be interleaved.

In other stimulus control circuits in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, several sets of terminals and electrodes 910 may simultaneously perform independent stimulus signals. For example, the stimulus control circuit 1200 of FIG. 12 simultaneously provides to each of the N pair terminals or electrodes of electrically independent stimulus signals, in response to one stimulus control signal, SCA, as described above. Ionization is achieved simultaneously for all pairs of terminals or electrodes from a single energy source stored in series with all major windings. Each secondary circuit includes an independent energy store that supports current through each target after ionization. As shown, the secondary circuit of transformer TD1202 includes capacitors C1202 and C1204; The secondary circuit of transformer TD1222 includes capacitors C1222 and C1224.

In other stimulus control circuits in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, the operation of the terminals and electrodes 910 may be independent (eg, processing circuit 1100) or may be independent (eg, like circuit 1200). . For example, the stimulus control circuit 1300 of FIG. 13 includes a plurality of 1302 (N) stimulus circuits 1304, each responsive to each stimulus control signal SCA to SCN (as described above with reference to FIG. 11). To 1306). Each stimulation circuit includes a transformer having a primary winding and a secondary winding for each terminal or electrode (two secondary shown). Each secondary circuit includes a capacitance that persists current through the ionization target.

The transformer may support a pair of terminals or electrodes as shown in FIGS. 11, 12, and 13. In other stimulus control circuits in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, the transformer may support a plurality of pairs of terminals or electrodes. As in the first embodiment, the transformer (TD1402 in FIG. 14) may be replaced with any transformer in any particular stimulus circuit of FIGS. 11, 12, and 13 to support three pairs of terminals or electrodes for that particular stimulus circuit. It may be. Transformer TD1402 has a secondary winding (one side coupled to a first storage capacitance (eg C6) for providing current through the target after ionization and the other coupled to a first terminal or electrode). W1402). Transformer TD1402 further includes a secondary winding W1404 coupled to the first terminal of the second terminal or electrode 911 and coupled to the third terminal or electrode. Transformer TD1402 further includes a secondary winding W1406 coupled to the second pair of fourth terminals or electrodes 912 and coupled to the fifth terminal or electrodes. In addition, the transformer TD1402 is coupled to a sixth terminal or electrode of the third pair 916 and provides a first side connected to a second storage capacitance (eg, C5) to provide current through the target after ionization. Further includes a secondary winding (W1408) having a. The technique shown in FIG. 14 may be extended to support more than three pairs of terminals or electrodes.

As a second embodiment, the transformer TD1502 of FIG. 15 may replace any transformer of any particular stimulation circuit of FIGS. 11, 12, and 13 to support two pairs of terminals or electrodes for that particular stimulation circuit. have. Transformer TD1502 has a secondary winding W1502 on one side coupled to a first storage capacitance (e.g., C6) for providing current through the target after ionization and the other coupled to a first terminal or electrode. ) Transformer TD1502 further includes a shunt from the second terminal or electrode of the first pair 911 to the third terminal or electrode. Transformer TD1502 further includes a secondary winding W1504 coupled to the fourth terminal or electrode of the second pair 916 and coupled to a second storage capacitance (eg, C5). The technique shown in FIG. 15 may be extended to support more than two pairs of terminals or electrodes.

In other stimulus control circuits in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, several energy sources are available for the primary circuit. For example, the circuit 1600 of FIG. 16 includes capacitances C1602 and C1604 charged to a common voltage (eg, about 2000 volts). The primary circuit further includes spark gaps G1602 and G1604 having about 2000 volt breakdown voltages, respectively. When the capacitor is charging or charged, the gap G1602 rarely has a voltage through it even if there is. When charged above the breakdown voltage of gap G1604, terminal or electrode 916 acts to form a current passing through the target from the charge stored in capacitors C1614 and C1615. Immediately after conduction by gap G1602, the voltage across gap G1602 rises and then causes conduction of gap G1602. Upon conduction of gap G1602, terminal or electrode 911 acts to form a current passing through the target from the charge stored in capacitors C1612 and C1613. One benefit of the circuit 1600 is that if the terminal or electrode 916 is inadequate (eg, inefficient with respect to the target), the charge for the current with respect to the terminal or electrode 911 is reduced to the terminal or electrode ( From capacitors C1614 and C1615 for 916, since it is provided by a pair of different and insulated capacitors C1612 and C1613, subsequent firing or use of terminal or electrode 911 will not be affected.

A switch (e.g., SWA or SWB in Figures 8A and 8B) may be implemented for operation or control by a relatively high voltage (e.g. spark gaps G1602 and G1604 in Figure 16) or by a relatively low voltage. It may be. In some embodiments, semiconductor switches (eg, operated by signals SCA, SCN) of FIGS. 11-15 may be desirable. For cost and reliability, the circuit 1700 of FIG. 17 may be used as the switch in place of any of the switches of the circuit discussed herein. In operation of circuit 1700, capacitor C1702 is greater than the break voltage of gap G1712 and the combined breakdown voltage of gaps G1712 (eg 1000 volts) and G1714 (eg 300 volts) It is charged to a voltage less than (eg 1000 volts). Spark gap G1712 will conduct when semiconductor FET Q1704 is activated to pull the voltage VN of the node between the gaps near zero volts. As current flows into that node, the voltage VN increases rapidly enough to cause conduction of the gap G1714. Thereafter, the energy of capacitor C1702 is mainly discharged through the series circuit of gaps G1712 and G1714, and any series load (not shown), such as a transformer winding. In fact, the relatively low voltage signal, the gate discharge start voltage (VF (eg, about 10 volts or less)) controls when capacitor C1702 discharges through the load. Resistor R1712 and R1714 reduce the charge trapped between the spark gap when the spark gap stops conducting and overrides the leakage current of the FET.

Apparatus according to various aspects of the present invention creates contraction of skeletal muscle of a target to hinder movement by the target. The device is used with a provided deployment unit that deploys an electrode away from the device. The electrode conducts current through the target. The apparatus includes a stimulus signal generator for determining a current; And a detector for detecting indicia from the deployment unit that describes the deployment unit.

Another device, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, produces contractions of skeletal muscle of a target to hinder movement by the target. The device is used with a provided deployment unit that deploys an electrode away from the device. The electrode conducts current through the target. The device comprises a terminal; Generating means for generating an electric arc to warn the target without conducting a current through the target; Conducting means for conducting current in series through the terminal and through the target; Initiation means for initiating deployment of the electrode; And an operator interface. Prior to the deployment of the electrodes, the operator interface also facilitates repeated operation of either or both of the generating means and the conducting means. After deployment of the electrode, the operator interface also facilitates repeated operation of either or both of the conducting means and the initiating means, with each actuation of the initiating means having a respective additional electrode of the deployment unit. .

Another device, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, produces contractions of skeletal muscle of a target to hinder movement by the target. The device is used with a provided deployment unit that deploys an electrode away from the device. The electrode conducts current through the target. The apparatus includes a stimulus signal generator and a circuit. The stimulus signal generator determines the current. The stimulus signal generator includes an energy storage device. The circuit starts deployment of the electrode without reducing the energy stored by the energy storage device.

Another device, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, produces contractions of skeletal muscle of a target to hinder movement by the target. The apparatus is used with a provided deployment unit that deploys a plurality of sets of electrodes removed from the apparatus. Each set of electrodes includes a plurality of respective electrodes. Each set of electrodes conducts a respective stimulus current through the skeletal muscle. The device includes an energy storage circuit and a discharging step. The energy storage circuit is charged to provide a first current, a second current, and a third current. The first current is provided at the first peak voltage magnitude. The second current is provided at a second peak voltage magnitude greater than the first magnitude. The third current is also provided at a third peak voltage magnitude that is greater than the first magnitude. The second and third voltage magnitudes are opposite polarities. The inversion step provides each individual stimulus current. The discharging step includes a respective transformer for each set of electrodes. Each transformer has a respective main winding for the main circuit that reacts to the first current. Each transformer has a respective secondary winding for the secondary circuit where each stimulus current provides each electrode of its set. One or more respective secondary circuits conduct a second current. One or more other respective secondary circuits conduct a third current. The fourth voltage between any two specific electrodes of the set in response to the first current is sufficient to ionize air to complete the series current through the skeletal muscle. The fifth voltage between the particular electrode responsive to the second current and the third current provides a stimulus current through the series circuit at a voltage less than the fourth voltage.

Another device, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, produces contractions of skeletal muscle and interferes with movement. The apparatus is used with a provided deployment unit that deploys a plurality of sets of electrodes away from the apparatus. Each set of electrodes includes a plurality of respective electrodes. Each set of electrodes conducts a respective stimulus current through the skeletal muscle. The apparatus includes a stimulus signal generator, an interface to the deployment unit, a detector, four passive operational controls, and a controller. The stimulus signal generator provides a stimulus current. The interface to the deployment unit includes means for coupling each signal and stimulus signal generator to a set of fired electrodes for each of the electrodes to fire a set. The detector detects indicia of each effective distance for each set of electrodes of the deployment unit. The third and fourth controls have no effect without the operation of the first control. The controller selects a set of electrodes and deploys according to the operation of the second control and the detected indicia. The selected signal of the interface is assumed in response to the controller for deployment of the selected set of electrodes in accordance with the operation of the third control. The controller controls the stimulus signal generator to provide a stimulus signal to at least the deployed set of electrodes in accordance with the operation of the fourth control.

The method according to various aspects of the present invention is performed by an apparatus that produces contractions of skeletal muscles and impedes movement of the target. The device is used with a deployment unit that deploys an electrode away from the device. The electrode conducts current through the target. The method comprises (a) storing the time of deployment performed by the device in a memory of the device; (b) receiving a wireless signal indicating whether the reader is within communication range of the device; And (c) transmitting the identification of the device over the wireless link in any order according to the indicia of the time of deployment.

Another device, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, produces contractions of skeletal muscle of a target to hinder movement by the target. The device is used with a provided deployment unit that deploys an electrode away from the device. The electrode conducts current through the target. The method comprises (a) storing the time of deployment performed by the device in a memory of the device; And (b) transmitting the identification of the device in relation to the indicia of the time of deployment via the optical signal in any order.

Another device, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, produces contractions of skeletal muscle of a target to hinder movement by the target. The device is used with a provided deployment unit that deploys an electrode away from the device. The electrode conducts current through the target. The device is a bus; A plurality of ports, and a controller. Each port couples the module to the bus. The controller is coupled to the bus to communicate with each module, each determining the description of the module.

Another device, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, produces contractions of skeletal muscle of a target to hinder movement by the target. The device is used with a provided deployment unit that deploys an electrode away from the device. The electrode conducts current through the target. The apparatus includes a stimulus signal generator for determining a current, and a controller instructing the stimulus signal generator to provide a stimulus signal generator of a first type and a second type of subsequent stimulus signal according to the deployment of the electrode to the electrode after deployment. do.

Another device, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, produces contractions of skeletal muscle of a target to hinder movement by the target. The device is used with a provided deployment unit that deploys an electrode away from the device. The electrode conducts current through the target. The apparatus provides a prompt on the output device to the operator of the apparatus, including a memory, a microphone, an output device, and a controller, and records indicia of the reply to the prompt received through the microphone in memory.

Any substantial combination of the foregoing structures and methods may be implemented in a device for local stun function without remote stun capability. For example, a shielded device that is not equipped with a remote impact function may include all of the functions discussed in connection with the launch device 102 with the following omission. The configuration report function 142 and the launch control function 144 may be omitted from the deployment unit control 140. The indicator 112, memory 114, and propellant 116 functions may be omitted from the cartridge 105. The interface 107 may be simplified to keep only the signal for the terminal of the contactor 118. The operator interface 200 or 250 may be implemented without the firing state 208. And the launch control function may be omitted in the deployment unit I / O 332.

The foregoing description discusses preferred embodiments of the invention that may be changed or modified without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. For clarity of explanation, various specific embodiments of the invention have been described, but the scope of the invention is intended to be evaluated by the claims as set forth below.

Claims (26)

A first control unit for starting a firing function; A second control unit which does not initiate any firing function; And And in response to the second control, a signal generator that performs at least one of impacting a target and providing an arc to alert the target. The method of claim 1, And the signal generator is configured to impact the target in response to the second control unit. The method of claim 2, And the signal generator to impact the target by stopping movement by the target. The method of claim 2, And the signal generator is responsive to the second control unit to provide a current passing through the target to impact the target. The method of claim 2, The signal generator, in response to the first control, to impart the current passing through the target to impact the target. The method of claim 2, The apparatus further comprises a processing circuit coupled between the second control and the signal generator; The processing circuit, in response to the second control unit, controls the signal generator to provide a current determined by the processing circuit; And the signal generator provides a current through the target to impact the target. The method of claim 2, The apparatus further comprises a terminal for accessing the target; The signal generator impinging the target by providing a current passing through the terminal and through the target. The method of claim 2, And the signal generator performs a local stun function to impact the target. The method of claim 2, And the signal generator performs a remote stun function to impact the target. The method of claim 2, The device further comprises an electrode launched from the device in response to the first control; The signal generator impinging the target by providing a current passing through the electrode and through the target. The method of claim 2, The apparatus cooperates with a provided deployment unit; The deployment unit includes a terminal for accessing the target and includes an electrode fired from the target in response to the first control; Prior to firing of the electrode, the signal generator is responsive to the second control to provide a current through the terminal and through the target to impact the target without firing the electrode. The method of claim 2, The apparatus further comprises a deployment unit; The deployment unit includes a terminal and includes an electrode fired from the target in response to the first control; Prior to the firing of the electrode, the signal generator, in response to the second control, provides a current through the terminal to alert the target without firing the electrode. The method of claim 2, And the first control unit comprises a trigger. The method of claim 2, And the first controller comprises a user action trigger. The method of claim 2, And the second control portion comprises a user actuated switch. The method of claim 2, The apparatus cooperates with a provided deployment unit; The deployment unit comprises a first electrode and a second electrode; In a first operation the first controller initiates firing of the first electrode towards a first target; In a second operation the first controller initiates firing of the second electrode towards a second target; The signal generator, in response to an operation of the second control unit, provides a first current through the first electrode to impact the first target and provide a second current through the second electrode to provide the And impacting the second target. As a method performed by a device, The method, In response to a first control, initiating the firing of an electrode of the device towards a target; Shocking the target by providing a current to pass through the electrode and through the target without further responding to the second control and initiating any firing function. The method of claim 17, The current passing through the target stops movement by the target. The method of claim 17, Further responsive to the first control, the signal generator provides a second current through the electrode to impact the target. The method of claim 17, Shocking the target by providing a second current through the terminal of the device for a local stun function also in response to the second control and initiating any firing function. The method of claim 20, Providing the second current is performed prior to the step performed in response to the first control. The method of claim 17, For each of the plurality of operations of the second control unit, repeatedly providing the respective currents to repeatedly impact the target. The method of claim 17, Providing an arc to alert the target without further responding to the second control and initiating any firing function. The method of claim 17, And the first control is operated by the target. The method of claim 17, Further responsive to the first control, initiating firing of the second electrode of the device towards a second target; Providing the current further comprises providing a second current passing through the second electrode and passing through the second target to impact the second target. The method of claim 25, The current includes a first plurality of pulses, the second current includes a second plurality of pulses, Providing the second current comprises interleaving the second plurality of pulses in synchronization with the first plurality of pulses.

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