WO2021101604A1 - Électrode de pénétration d'article - Google Patents

Électrode de pénétration d'article Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2021101604A1
WO2021101604A1 PCT/US2020/046489 US2020046489W WO2021101604A1 WO 2021101604 A1 WO2021101604 A1 WO 2021101604A1 US 2020046489 W US2020046489 W US 2020046489W WO 2021101604 A1 WO2021101604 A1 WO 2021101604A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
electrode
deployment
deployment unit
cew
processing circuit
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2020/046489
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Patrick W. Smith
Steven N.D. Brundula
Luke Salisbury
Original Assignee
Axon Enterprise, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Axon Enterprise, Inc. filed Critical Axon Enterprise, Inc.
Publication of WO2021101604A1 publication Critical patent/WO2021101604A1/fr

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41—WEAPONS
    • F41H—ARMOUR; ARMOURED TURRETS; ARMOURED OR ARMED VEHICLES; MEANS OF ATTACK OR DEFENCE, e.g. CAMOUFLAGE, IN GENERAL
    • F41H13/00—Means of attack or defence not otherwise provided for
    • F41H13/0012—Electrical discharge weapons, e.g. for stunning
    • F41H13/0025—Electrical discharge weapons, e.g. for stunning for remote electrical discharge via conducting wires, e.g. via wire-tethered electrodes shot at a target
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41—WEAPONS
    • F41A—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS COMMON TO BOTH SMALLARMS AND ORDNANCE, e.g. CANNONS; MOUNTINGS FOR SMALLARMS OR ORDNANCE
    • F41A19/00—Firing or trigger mechanisms; Cocking mechanisms
    • F41A19/58—Electric firing mechanisms
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
    • F42B12/00—Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material
    • F42B12/02—Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect
    • F42B12/36—Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect for dispensing materials; for producing chemical or physical reaction; for signalling ; for transmitting information
    • F42B12/362—Arrows or darts

Definitions

  • Embodiments of the present invention relate to an electrode for use in a conducted electrical weapon (“CEW”).
  • CEW conducted electrical weapon
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a conducted electrical weapon, in accordance with various embodiments
  • FIG. 2A illustrates a schematic diagram of a first control interface for use in a conducted electrical weapon, in accordance with various embodiments
  • FIG. 2B illustrates a schematic diagram of a second control interface for use in a conducted electrical weapon, in accordance with various embodiments
  • FIG. 3 illustrates front view of a deployment unit for a conducted electrical weapon, in accordance with various embodiments
  • FIGs. 4A-4C illustrate process flows for methods of controlling a CEW using control interfaces, in accordance with various embodiments
  • FIGs. 5 A-5E illustrate an article penetrating electrode for use in a conducted electrical weapon, in accordance with various embodiments
  • FIG. 6 illustrates an article penetrating electrode comprising a resistance coating with a plurality of exposed surfaces, in accordance with various embodiments; and [0010]
  • FIG. 7 illustrates an article penetrating electrode comprising an aerodynamic feature, in accordance with various embodiments.
  • any of the method or process descriptions may be executed in any order and are not necessarily limited to the order presented.
  • any reference to singular includes plural embodiments, and any reference to more than one component or step may include a singular embodiment or step.
  • any reference to attached, fixed, coupled, connected, or the like may include permanent, removable, temporary, partial, full, and/or any other possible attachment option.
  • any reference to without contact (or similar phrases) may also include reduced contact or minimal contact. Surface shading lines may be used throughout the figures to denote different parts but not necessarily to denote the same or different materials.
  • Systems, methods, and apparatuses may be used to interfere with voluntary locomotion (e.g., walking, running, moving, etc.) of a target.
  • a conducted electrical weapon e.g., “CEW,” conducted energy weapon, conductive electrical weapon, etc.
  • a current e.g., stimulus signal, pulses of current, pulses of charge, etc.
  • the stimulus signal may interfere with voluntary locomotion of the target.
  • the stimulus signal may cause pain.
  • the pain may also function to encourage the target to stop moving.
  • the stimulus signal may cause skeletal muscles of the target to become stiff (e.g., lock up, freeze, etc.).
  • NMI neuromuscular incapacitation
  • a stimulus signal may be delivered through the target via terminals coupled to the CEW. Delivery via terminals may be referred to as a local delivery (e.g., a local stun). During local delivery, the terminals are brought close to the target by positioning the CEW proximate to the target. The stimulus signal is delivered through the target’s tissue via the terminals. To provide local delivery, the user of the CEW is generally within arm’s reach of the target and brings the terminals of the CEW into contact with or proximate to the target.
  • a local delivery e.g., a local stun
  • a stimulus signal may be delivered through the target via one or more (typically at least two) wire-tethered electrodes. Delivery via wire-tethered electrodes may be referred to as a remote delivery (e.g., a remote stun).
  • a remote delivery e.g., a remote stun
  • the CEW may be separated from the target up to the length (e.g., 15 feet, 20 feet, 30 feet, etc.) of the wire tether.
  • the CEW launches the electrodes towards the target.
  • the wire tether electrically couples the CEW to the electrode.
  • the electrode may electrically couple to the target thereby coupling the CEW to the target.
  • the current may be provided through the target via the electrodes (e.g., a circuit is formed through the first tether and first electrode, the target’s tissue, and the second tether and second electrode).
  • Terminals or electrodes that contact or are proximate to the target’s tissue deliver the stimulus signal through the target.
  • Contact of a terminal or electrode with the target’s tissue establishes an electrical coupling (e.g., circuit) with the target’s tissue.
  • Electrodes may include a spear that may pierce the target’s tissue to contact the target.
  • a terminal or electrode that is proximate to the target’s tissue may use ionization to establish an electrical coupling with the target’s tissue. Ionization may also be referred to as arcing.
  • a terminal or electrode may be separated from the target’s tissue by the target’s clothing or a gap of air.
  • a signal generator of the CEW may provide the stimulus signal (e.g., current, pulses of current, etc.) at a high voltage (e.g., in the range of 40,000 to 100,000 volts) to ionize the air in the clothing or the air in the gap that separates the terminal or electrode from the target’s tissue. Ionizing the air establishes a low impedance ionization path from the terminal or electrode to the target’s tissue that may be used to deliver the stimulus signal into the target’s tissue via the ionization path.
  • the ionization path persists (e.g., remains in existence, lasts, etc.) as long as the current of a pulse of the stimulus signal is provided via the ionization path.
  • a threshold e.g., amperage, voltage
  • the ionization path collapses (e.g., ceases to exist) and the terminal or electrode is no longer electrically coupled to the target’s tissue.
  • the impedance between the terminal or electrode and target tissue is high.
  • a high voltage in the range of about 50,000 volts can ionize air in a gap of up to about one inch.
  • a CEW may provide a stimulus signal as a series of current pulses.
  • Each current pulse may include a high voltage portion (e.g., 40,000 - 100,000 volts) and a low voltage portion (e.g., 500 - 6,000 volts).
  • the high voltage portion of a pulse of a stimulus signal may ionize air in a gap between an electrode or terminal and a target to electrically couple the electrode or terminal to the target.
  • the low voltage portion of the pulse delivers an amount of charge into the target’s tissue via the ionization path.
  • the high portion of the pulse and the low portion of the pulse both deliver charge to the target’s tissue.
  • the low voltage portion of the pulse delivers a majority of the charge of the pulse into the target’s tissue.
  • the high voltage portion of a pulse of the stimulus signal may be referred to as the spark or ionization portion.
  • the low voltage portion of a pulse may be referred to as the muscle portion.
  • a signal generator of the CEW may provide the stimulus signal (e.g., current, pulses of current, etc.) at only a low voltage (e.g., less than 2,000 volts).
  • a CEW having a signal generator providing stimulus signals at only a low voltage may require deployed electrodes to be electrically coupled to the target by contact (e.g., touching, spear embedded into tissue, etc.).
  • a CEW may include at least two terminals at the face of the CEW.
  • a CEW may include two terminals for each bay that accepts a deployment unit (e.g., cartridge). The terminals are spaced apart from each other.
  • the high voltage impressed across the terminals will result in ionization of the air between the terminals.
  • the arc between the terminals may be visible to the naked eye.
  • the current that would have been provided via the electrodes may arc across the face of the CEW via the terminals.
  • the likelihood that the stimulus signal will cause NMI increases when the electrodes that deliver the stimulus signal are spaced apart at least 6 inches (15.24 centimeters) so that the current from the stimulus signal flows through the 6 or more inches of the target’ s tissue.
  • the electrodes preferably should be spaced apart at least 12 inches (30.48 centimeters) on the target. Because the terminals on a CEW are typically less than 6 inches apart, a stimulus signal delivered through the target’s tissue via terminals likely will not cause NMI, only pain.
  • a series of pulses may include two or more pulses separated in time. Each pulse delivers an amount of charge into the target’s tissue.
  • the likelihood of inducing NMI increases as each pulse delivers an amount of charge in the range of 55 microcoulombs to 71 microcoulombs per pulse.
  • the likelihood of inducing NMI increases when the rate of pulse delivery (e.g., rate, pulse rate, repetition rate, etc.) is between 11 pulses per second (“pps”) and 50 pps. Pulses delivered at a higher rate may provide less charge per pulse to induce NMI. Pulses that deliver more charge per pulse may be delivered at a lesser rate to induce NMI.
  • a CEW may be hand-held and use batteries to provide the pulses of the stimulus signal.
  • the CEW may use more energy than is needed to induce NMI. Using more energy than is needed depletes batteries more quickly.
  • Empirical testing has shown that the power of the battery may be conserved with a high likelihood of causing NMI in response to the pulse rate being less than 44 pps and the charge per pulse being about 63 microcoulombs.
  • Empirical testing has shown that a pulse rate of 22 pps and 63 microcoulombs per pulse via a pair of electrodes will induce NMI when the electrode spacing is about 12 inches (30.48 centimeters).
  • a CEW may include a handle and one or more deployment units.
  • the handle may include one or more bays for receiving the deployment units.
  • Each deployment unit may be removably positioned in (e.g., inserted into, coupled to, etc.) a bay.
  • Each deployment unit may releasably electrically, electronically, and/or mechanically couple to a bay.
  • a CEW may include a bay configured to receive a magazine comprising one or more electrodes.
  • a deployment (e.g., launch) of the CEW may launch one or more electrodes toward a target to remotely deliver the stimulus signal through the target.
  • a deployment unit may include two or more electrodes that are launched at the same time.
  • a deployment unit may include two or more electrodes that may be launched at separate times. Launching the electrodes may be referred to as activating (e.g., firing) a deployment unit. After use (e.g., activation, firing), a deployment unit may be removed from the bay and replaced with an unused (e.g., not fired, not activated) deployment unit to permit launch of additional electrodes.
  • CEW 1 may be similar to, or have similar aspects and/or components with, the CEWs previously discussed herein. It should be understood by one skilled in the art that FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of CEW 1, and one or more of the components of CEW 1 may be located in any suitable position within, or external to, housing 10.
  • CEW 1 may comprise a housing 10 and one or more deployment units 20 (e.g., cartridges).
  • Housing 10 may be configured to house various components of CEW 1 configured to enable deployment of the deployment units 20, provide an electrical current to the deployment units 20, and otherwise aid in the operation of CEW 1, as discussed further herein.
  • housing 10 may comprise any suitable shape and/or size.
  • Housing 10 may comprise a handle end 12 opposite a deployment end 14.
  • Deployment end 14 may be configured, and sized and shaped, to receive one or more deployment units 20.
  • Handle end 12 may be sized and shaped to be held in a hand of a user.
  • handle end 12 may be shaped as a handle to enable hand-operation of the CEW by the user.
  • handle end 12 may also comprise contours shaped to fit the hand of a user, for example, an ergonomic grip.
  • Handle end 12 may include a surface coating, such as, for example, a non-slip surface, a grip pad, a rubber texture, and/or the like.
  • handle end 12 may be wrapped in leather, a colored print, and/or any other suitable material, as desired.
  • housing 10 may comprise various mechanical, electronic, and electrical components configured to aid in performing the functions of CEW 1.
  • housing 10 may comprise one or more triggers 40, control interfaces 45, processing circuits 50, power supplies 60, and/or signal generators 70.
  • Housing 10 may include a guard 30.
  • Guard 30 may define an opening formed in housing 10.
  • Guard 30 may be located on a center region of housing 10 (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 1), and/or in any other suitable location on housing 10.
  • Trigger 40 may be disposed within guard 30.
  • Guard 30 may be configured to protect trigger 40 from unintentional physical contact (e.g., an unintentional activation of trigger 40).
  • Guard 30 may surround trigger 40 within housing 10.
  • trigger 40 be coupled to an outer surface of housing 10, and may be configured to move, slide, rotate, otherwise become physically depressed upon application of the physical contact.
  • trigger 40 may be actuated by physical contact applied to trigger 40 from within guard 30.
  • Trigger 40 may comprise a mechanical or electromechanical switch, button, trigger, or the like.
  • trigger 40 may comprise a switch, a pushbutton, and/or any other suitable type of trigger.
  • Trigger 40 may be mechanically and/or electronically coupled to processing circuit 50. In response to trigger 40 being activated (e.g., depressed, pushed, etc. by the user), processing circuit 50 may enable deployment of one or more deployment units 20 from CEW 1, as discussed further herein.
  • power supply 60 may be configured to provide power to various components of CEW 1.
  • power supply 60 may provide energy for operating the electronic and/or electrical components (e.g., parts, subsystems, circuits) of CEW 1 and/or one or more deployment units 20.
  • Power supply 60 may provide electrical power.
  • Providing electrical power may include providing a current at a voltage.
  • Power supply 60 may be electrically coupled to processing circuit 50 and/or signal generator 70.
  • control interface 45 comprising electronic properties and/or components
  • power supply 60 in response to control interface 45 comprising electronic properties and/or components, power supply 60 may be electrically coupled to control interface 45.
  • trigger 40 comprising electronic properties or components, power supply 60 may be electrically coupled to trigger 40.
  • Power supply 60 may provide an electrical current at a voltage.
  • Electrical power from power supply 60 may be provided as a direct current (“DC”). Electrical power from power supply 60 may be provided as an alternating current (“AC”). Power supply 60 may include a battery. The energy of power supply 60 may be renewable or exhaustible, and/or replaceable. For example, power supply 60 may comprise one or more rechargeable or disposable batteries. In various embodiments, the energy from power supply 60 may be converted from one form (e.g., electrical, magnetic, thermal) to another form to perform the functions of a system.
  • DC direct current
  • AC alternating current
  • Power supply 60 may include a battery.
  • the energy of power supply 60 may be renewable or exhaustible, and/or replaceable.
  • power supply 60 may comprise one or more rechargeable or disposable batteries.
  • the energy from power supply 60 may be converted from one form (e.g., electrical, magnetic, thermal) to another form to perform the functions of a system.
  • Power supply 60 may provide energy for performing the functions of CEW 1.
  • power supply 60 may provide the electrical current to signal generator 70 that is provided through a target to impede locomotion of the target (e.g., via deployment unit 20).
  • Power supply 60 may provide the energy for a stimulus signal.
  • Power supply 60 may provide the energy for other signals, including an ignition signal and/or an integration signal, as discussed further herein.
  • processing circuit 50 may comprise any circuitry, electrical components, electronic components, software, and/or the like configured to perform various operations and functions discussed herein.
  • processing circuit 50 may comprise a processing circuit, a processor, a digital signal processor, a microcontroller, a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device, logic circuitry, state machines, MEMS devices, signal conditioning circuitry, communication circuitry, a computer, a computer-based system, a radio, a network appliance, a data bus, an address bus, and/or any combination thereof.
  • ASIC application specific integrated circuit
  • processing circuit 50 may include passive electronic devices (e.g., resistors, capacitors, inductors, etc.) and/or active electronic devices (e.g., op amps, comparators, analog-to-digital converters, digital-to-analog converters, programmable logic, SRCs, transistors, etc.).
  • processing circuit 50 may include data buses, output ports, input ports, timers, memory, arithmetic units, and/or the like.
  • a CEW may comprise a memory configured to store data, instructions, programs, or the like.
  • the memory may comprise a tangible non-transitory computer- readable memory.
  • Processing circuit 50 may comprise or be in communication with the memory.
  • Processing circuit 50 may communicate with the memory to access, retrieve, and/or transmit data, instructions, and/or programs to the memory. Instructions stored on the tangible non-transitory memory may allow processing circuit 50 to perform various operations, functions, and/or steps, as described herein.
  • processing circuit 50 may communicate with signal generator 70 and/or deployment unit 20 to deploy a number of projectiles, a type of projectiles, or the like, as discussed further herein.
  • processing circuit 50 may execute the instructions in response to operation of control interface 45, second control interface 245, and/or trigger 40, as discussed further herein.
  • Processing circuit 50 may be configured to provide and/or receive electrical signals whether digital and/or analog in form. Processing circuit 50 may provide and/or receive digital information via a data bus using any protocol. Processing circuit 50 may receive information, manipulate the received information, and provide the manipulated information. Processing circuit 50 may store information and retrieve stored information. Information received, stored, and/or manipulated by processing circuit 50 may be used to perform a function, control a function, and/or to perform an operation or execute a stored program.
  • Processing circuit 50 may control the operation and/or function of other circuits and/or components of CEW 1.
  • Processing circuit 50 may receive status information regarding the operation of other components, perform calculations with respect to the status information, and provide commands (e.g., instructions) to one or more other components.
  • Processing circuit 50 may command another component to start operation, continue operation, alter operation, suspend operation, cease operation, or the like.
  • Commands and/or status may be communicated between processing circuit 50 and other circuits and/or components via any type of bus (e.g., SPI bus) including any type of data/address bus.
  • Processing circuit 50 may be electrically and/or electronically coupled to deployment unit 20. Processing circuit 50 may be configured to determine one or more deployment unit characteristics associated with deployment unit 20.
  • a deployment unit characteristic may include data indicating various characteristics of the deployment unit.
  • a deployment unit characteristic may include a deployment unit type, a projectile type, a projectile position, a deployment instruction, and/or any other suitable or desired information relating to a deployment unit, a projectile, the CEW, or deployment of projectiles from the deployment unit.
  • a deployment unit type may comprise data regarding a type of the deployment unit, such as, for example, a training deployment unit, a mixed-projectile deployment unit (e.g., a deployment unit have a plurality of projectile types, such as both low penetrating projectiles and article penetrating projectiles), a same-projectile deployment unit, a low penetrating projectile deployment unit (e.g., a deployment unit comprising only low penetrating projectiles), an article penetrating projectile deployment unit (e.g., a deployment unit comprising only article penetrating projectiles), and/or the like.
  • a type of the deployment unit such as, for example, a training deployment unit, a mixed-projectile deployment unit (e.g., a deployment unit have a plurality of projectile types, such as both low penetrating projectiles and article penetrating projectiles), a same-projectile deployment unit, a low penetrating projectile deployment unit (e.g.,
  • a projectile type may comprise data regarding a type of each projectile in the deployment unit, such as for example, a low penetrating projectile, an article penetrating projectile, an other less-lethal projectile, or the like.
  • the projectile type may also comprise data regarding a number of projectiles in the deployment unit and/or a number of each projectile type in the deployment unit (e.g., 6 low penetrating projectiles, 3 article penetrating projectiles, etc.).
  • a projectile position may comprise data indicating a position of one or more projectiles in the deployment unit.
  • a deployment unit may be configured to house any suitable number of projectiles (e.g., 2, 3, 6, 9, etc.), with each projectile positioned in a bore prior to launch.
  • the projectile position may comprise data indicating which bore one or more projectiles is housed in. For example, low penetrating projectile 1 in bore 1, low penetrating projectile 2 in bore 2, etc.
  • a deployment instruction may comprise data indicating instructions for the deployment of one or more projectiles from the deployment unit.
  • the deployment instruction may comprise an order of projectile deployment, a number of projectiles deployed for each activation, or the like.
  • a deployment instruction may comprise: first trigger activation: deploy projectile 1 and projectile 2; second trigger activation: deploy projectile 3; third trigger activation: deploy projectile 4; etc.
  • a deployment instruction may comprise: first trigger activation: deploy projectile 1; second trigger activation: deploy projectile 2; third trigger activation: deploy projectile 3; etc.
  • a deployment instruction may comprise: first trigger activation: deploy three projectile; second trigger activation: deploy one projectile; third trigger activation: deploy one projectile; etc.
  • the deployment unit characteristic may be stored in a memory of deployment unit 20.
  • the memory may comprise any suitable type of memory, and may be configured to store and maintain data using any suitable process.
  • processing circuit 50 may communicate with the memory to transmit and retrieve data from the memory.
  • a memory of deployment unit 20 may store a unique identifier (e.g., a deployment unit identifier, etc.).
  • the unique identifier may uniquely identify deployment unit 20, and/or uniquely be associated with characteristics of deployment unit 20.
  • Processing circuit 50 may comprise, or be in communication with, a memory configured to store a list, table, or the like of unique identifiers and associated deployment unit characteristics. In that regard, processing circuit 50 may communicate with the memory of deployment unit 20 to retrieve the unique identifier. Processing circuit 50 may communicate with the memory of processing circuit 50 to determine the deployment unit characteristics based on the unique identifier. [0044] In various embodiments, processing circuit 50 may be mechanically and/or electronically coupled to trigger 40.
  • Processing circuit 50 may be configured to detect an activation, actuation, depression, input, etc. (collectively, an “activation event”) of trigger 40. In response to detecting the activation event, processing circuit 50 may be configured to perform various operations and/or functions, as discussed further herein. Processing circuit 50 may also include a sensor (e.g., a trigger sensor) attached to trigger 40 and configured to detect an activation event of trigger 40. The sensor may comprise any suitable mechanical and/or electronic sensor capable of detecting an activation event in trigger 40 and reporting the activation event to processing circuit 50.
  • a sensor e.g., a trigger sensor
  • processing circuit 50 may be mechanically and/or electronically coupled to control interface 45.
  • Processing circuit 50 may be configured to detect an activation, actuation, depression, input, etc. (collectively, a “control event”) of control interface 45. In response to detecting the control event, processing circuit 50 may be configured to perform various operations and/or functions, as discussed further herein.
  • Processing circuit 50 may also include a sensor (e.g., a control sensor) attached to control interface 45 and configured to detect a control event of control interface 45.
  • the sensor may comprise any suitable mechanical and/or electronic sensor capable of detecting a control event in control interface 45 and reporting the control event to processing circuit 50.
  • processing circuit 50 may be electrically and/or electronically coupled to power supply 60.
  • Processing circuit 50 may receive power from power supply 60.
  • the power received from power supply 60 may be used by processing circuit 50 to receive signals, process signals, and transmit signals to various other components in CEW 1.
  • Processing circuit 50 may use power from power supply 60 to detect an activation event of trigger 40, a control event of control interface 45, or the like, and generate one or more control signals in response to the detected events.
  • the control signal may be based on the control event and the activation event.
  • the control signal may be an electrical signal.
  • processing circuit 50 may be electrically and/or electronically coupled to signal generator 70.
  • Processing circuit 50 may be configured to transmit or provide control signals to signal generator 70 in response to detecting an activation event of trigger 40. Multiple control signals may be provided from microprocessor 50 to signal generator 70 in series. In response to receiving the control signal, signal generator 70 may be configured to perform various functions and/or operations, as discussed further herein.
  • control interface 45 may be configured to control selection of firing modes in CEW 1. Controlling selection of firing modes in CEW 1 may include disabling firing of CEW 1 (e.g., a safety mode), controlling deployment of deployment units 20, and/or similar operations, as discussed further herein. Control interface 45 may be located in any suitable location on or in housing 10. For example, control interface 45 may be coupled to an outer surface of housing 10. Control interface 45 may be coupled to an outer surface of housing 10 proximate trigger 40 and/or guard 30. Control interface 45 may be electrically, mechanically, and/or electronically coupled to processing circuit 50. In various embodiments, in response to control interface 45 comprising electronic properties or components, control interface 45 may be electrically coupled to power supply 60. Control interface 45 may receive power (e.g., electrical current) from power supply 60 to power the electronic properties or components.
  • power e.g., electrical current
  • Control interface 45 may be electronically or mechanically coupled to trigger 40.
  • control interface 45 may function as a safety.
  • CEW 1 may be unable to deploy deployment units 20.
  • control interface 45 may provide a signal (e.g., a control signal) to processing circuit 50 instructing processing circuit 50 to disable deployment of deployment units 20.
  • control interface 45 may electronically or mechanically prohibit trigger 40 from activating (e.g., prevent or disable a user from depressing trigger 40).
  • Control interface 45 may comprise any suitable electronic or mechanical component capable of enabling selection of firing modes in CEW 1.
  • control interface 45 may comprise a fire mode selector switch, a safety switch, a safety catch, a rotating switch, a selection switch, a selective firing mechanism, and/or any other suitable mechanical control switch.
  • control interface 45 may comprise a touch screen or similar electronic component.
  • control interface 45 may comprise a slide, pistol slide, reciprocating slide, or the like.
  • control interface 45 may enable selection of a safety mode 47, a firing mode 48, and/or a penetrating mode 49.
  • FIG. 2A and the present description describe each mode as a “safety mode,” a “firing mode,” and a “penetrating mode,” similar words and phrases, symbols, or the like may be used to impart similar functionalities.
  • control interface 45 may also enable selection of any other suitable or desired mode, including, for example, selection of non-lethal or less-lethal [0052]
  • control interface 45 may transmit instructions to processing circuit 50 based on the selection.
  • Safety mode 47 may be configured to prohibit deployment of deployment units 20 from CEW 1.
  • control interface 45 may transmit a safety mode instruction to processing circuit 50.
  • processing circuit 50 may prohibit deployment of a deployment unit 20 from CEW 1.
  • processing circuit 50 may prohibit deployment until a further instruction is received from control interface 45.
  • control interface 45 may interact with trigger 40 to prevent activation of trigger 40.
  • Firing mode 48 may be configured to enable deployment of one or more deployment units 20, or one or more projectiles 90, 95 from a deployment unit 20, from CEW 1.
  • firing mode 48 may function as a selective firing control enabling the firing of deployment units 20, or projectiles 90, 95, having certain characteristics.
  • a deployment unit 20 may comprise projectiles 90, 95 having the same characteristics.
  • a deployment unit 20 may comprise only low penetrating electrodes (e.g., electrodes other than article penetrating electrodes discussed further herein, a non-article penetrating electrode, an electrode configured to penetrate at a depth less than an article penetrating electrode, etc.).
  • a deployment unit 20 may comprise only article penetrating electrodes.
  • a deployment unit 20 may comprise projectiles 90, 95 having different characteristics.
  • a deployment unit 20 may comprise one or more low penetrating electrodes and one or more article penetrating electrodes.
  • firing mode 48 may be configured to enable the firing of low penetrating electrodes, but prevent or prohibit the firing of article penetrating electrodes from CEW 1.
  • a next fired electrode may be a low penetrating electrode in firing mode 48 when CEW 1 includes both the low penetrating electrode and a penetrating electrode.
  • control interface 45 may transmit a firing mode instruction to processing circuit 50.
  • processing circuit 50 may enable the deployment of deployment units 20 having only low penetrating electrodes.
  • Processing circuit 50 may also selectively enable the deployment of deployment units 20 having both low penetrating electrodes and article penetrating electrodes.
  • Processing circuit 50 may enable selective deployment of a deployment unit 20 having only low penetrating electrodes or at least one low penetrating electrode prior to another deployment unit 20 that includes only penetrating electrodes or one or more penetrating electrodes. Processing circuit 50 may disable the deployment of article penetrating electrodes. For example, in response to trigger 40 being activated, processing circuit 50 may cause the deployment of one or more low penetrating electrodes. In response to multiple activations of trigger 40, processing circuit 50 may cause the one or more low penetrating electrodes from deployment units 20 to be deployed prior (e.g., first, earlier in sequence) to deployment (if any) of one or more penetrating electrodes from deployment units 20.
  • the one or more low penetrating electrodes may include all low penetrating electrodes in deployment units 20 and/or the one or more penetrating electrodes may include all penetrating electrodes in deployment units 20.
  • the one or more low penetrating electrodes may be deployed in response to one or more first activations of trigger 40 and the one or more penetrating electrodes may be deployed in response to one or more second activations of trigger 40, the one or more second activations received subsequent to the one or more first activations of the trigger 40.
  • Penetrating mode 49 may be configured to enable deployment of any deployment unit 20, or any projectile 90, 95 from a deployment unit 20, from CEW 1. In that respect, regardless of whether a deployment unit 20 comprise low penetrating electrodes, article penetrating electrodes, or a combination thereof, all electrodes may be deployed from CEW 1.
  • control interface 45 may transmit a penetrating mode instruction to processing circuit 50.
  • processing circuit 50 may enable the deployment of any deployment unit 20.
  • processing circuit 50 may cause the deployment of one or more electrodes, including low penetrating electrodes and/or article penetrating electrodes.
  • Processing circuit 50 may also selectively enable the deployment of deployment units 20 having both low penetrating electrodes and article penetrating electrodes.
  • Processing circuit 50 may alternately disable the deployment of low penetrating electrodes, such that only article penetrating electrodes are enabled to be deployed in penetrating mode 49.
  • a next fired electrode may be a penetrating electrode in penetrating mode 49 when CEW 1 includes both the penetrating electrode and another type of electrode, such as a low penetrating electrode.
  • processing circuit 50 may cause the deployment of one or more penetrating electrodes.
  • processing circuit 50 may cause the one or more penetrating electrodes from deployment units 20 to be deployed prior (e.g., first, earlier in sequence) to deployment (if any) of one or more low penetrating electrodes from deployment units 20.
  • the one or more penetrating electrodes may include all penetrating electrodes in deployment units 20 and/or the one or more low penetrating electrodes may include all low penetrating electrodes in deployment units 20.
  • the one or more penetrating electrodes may be deployed in response to one or more first activations of trigger 40 and the one or more low penetrating electrodes may be deployed in response to one or more second activations of trigger 40, the one or more first activations preceding the one or more second activations in a sequence of multiple activations of trigger 40.
  • Processing circuit 50 may contain logic, or logic may be supplied by a similar processor or firmware on deployment unit 20 in CEW 1, configured to selectively control the deployment of electrodes from deployment unit 20 (e.g., electrode deployment logic).
  • a deployment unit 20 may comprise a plurality of projectiles, such as a first projectile 92-1, a second projectile 92-2, a third projectile 92-3, a fourth projectile 92-4, a fifth projectile 92-5, a sixth projectile 92-6, a seventh projectile 92-7, an eighth projectile 92-8, and/or a ninth projectile 92-9.
  • Each projectile 92 may comprise a low penetrating electrode or an article penetrating electrode.
  • One or more projectiles 92 may comprise similar or different deployment angles (e.g., a wide angle for short-range deployments, a small angle for long-range deployments, etc.).
  • first projectile 92-1, second projectile 92-2, third projectile 92-3, and/or fifth projectile 92-5 may comprise low penetrating electrodes
  • fourth projectile 92-4, sixth projectile 92-6, seventh projectile 92-7, eighth projectile 92-8, and/or ninth projectile 92-9 may comprise article penetrating electrodes.
  • processing circuit 50 may selectively cause deployment of the projectiles 92.
  • CEW 1 may comprise a control interface 245 (e.g., a second control interface).
  • Second control interface 245 may be similar to, or have similar characteristics or components with, control interface 45 (e.g., a first control interface). Second control interface 245 may be in electrical, electronic, and/or mechanical communication with processing circuit 45, trigger 40, control interface 45, and/or power supply 60. Second control interface 245 may comprise a separate control interface from control interface 45. For example, and in accordance with various embodiments, control interface 45 may comprise a safety switch, or mechanical interface. Second control interface 245 may comprise a separate user interface. Second control interface 245 may comprise a subcomponent or selectable subset of control interface 45. For example, and in accordance with various embodiments, control interface 45 may comprise a touchscreen user interface. Second control interface 245 may be selectable within control interface 45.
  • control interface 45 may display second control interface 245 enabling selection and input of a mode available on second control interface 245 (e.g., fire one mode 248-1, fire two mode 248-2, fire three mode 248-3, fire “N” mode, etc.).
  • a mode available on second control interface 245 e.g., fire one mode 248-1, fire two mode 248-2, fire three mode 248-3, fire “N” mode, etc.
  • second control interface 245 may transmit instructions to processing circuit 50 based on the selection.
  • Fire one mode 248-1 may be configured to enable deployment of a single projectile responsive to an activation of a trigger.
  • second control interface 245 may transmit a fire one selection (e.g., fire one instruction, fire one mode, etc.) to processing circuit 50.
  • processing circuit 50 may selectively enable the deployment of projectiles, one projectile for each trigger activation.
  • processing circuit 50 may cause the deployment of one projectile.
  • processing circuit 50 may cause subsequent deployments of a single projectile for each activation.
  • Fire two mode 248-2 may be configured to enable deployment of two projectiles responsive to an activation of a trigger.
  • second control interface 245 may transmit a fire two selection (e.g., fire two instruction, fire two mode, etc.) to processing circuit 50.
  • processing circuit 50 may selectively enable the deployment of projectiles, two projectiles for each trigger activation.
  • processing circuit 50 may cause the deployment of two projectiles.
  • processing circuit 50 may cause subsequent deployments of two projectiles for each activation.
  • processing circuit 50 may cause deployment of the one projectile for a last activation.
  • Fire three mode 248-3 may be configured to enable deployment of three projectiles responsive to an activation of a trigger.
  • second control interface 245 may transmit a fire three selection (e.g., fire three instruction, fire three mode, etc.) to processing circuit 50.
  • processing circuit 50 may selectively enable the deployment of projectiles, three projectiles for each trigger activation.
  • processing circuit 50 may cause the deployment of three projectiles.
  • processing circuit 50 may cause subsequent deployments of three projectiles for each activation. In various embodiments, in response to multiple activations of trigger 40, processing circuit 50 may cause subsequent deployments of one or two projectiles for each activation based (e.g., after a first activation, each subsequent activation causes deployment of one projectile or two projectiles). In response to a deployment unit having only one or two projectiles ready for deployment, processing circuit 50 may cause deployment of the one or two projectile for a last activation.
  • signal generator 70 may be configured to receive one or more control signals from processing circuit 50. Signal generator 70 may provide an ignition signal to deployment unit 20 based on the control signals. Signal generator 70 may be electrically and/or electronically coupled to processing circuit 50 and/or deployment unit 20. Signal generator 70 may be electrically coupled to power supply 60. Signal generator 70 may use power received from power supply 60 to generate an ignition signal. For example, signal generator 70 may receive an electrical signal from power supply 60 that has first current and voltage values. Signal generator 70 may transform the electrical signal into an ignition signal having second current and voltage values. The transformed second current and/or the transformed second voltage values may be different from the first current and/or voltage values.
  • the transformed second current and/or the transformed second voltage values may be the same as the first current and/or voltage values.
  • Signal generator 70 may temporarily store power from power supply 60 and rely on the stored power entirely or in part to provide the ignition signal. Signal generator 70 may also rely on received power from power supply 60 entirely or in part to provide the ignition signal, without needing to temporarily store power.
  • Signal generator 70 may be controlled entirely or in part by processing circuit 50.
  • signal generator 70 and processing circuit 50 may be separate components (e.g., physically distinct and/or logically discrete).
  • Signal generator 70 and processing circuit 50 may be a single component.
  • a control circuit within housing 10 may at least include signal generator 70 and processing circuit 50.
  • the control circuit may also include other components and/or arrangements, including those that further integrate corresponding function of these elements into a single component or circuit, as well as those that further separate certain functions into separate components or circuits.
  • Signal generator 70 may be controlled by the control signals to generate an ignition signal having a predetermined current value or values.
  • signal generator 70 may include a current source.
  • the control signal may be received by signal generator 70 to activate the current source at a current value of the current source.
  • An additional control signal may be received to decrease a current of the current source.
  • signal generator 70 may include a pulse width modification circuit coupled between a current source and an output of the control circuit.
  • a second control signal may be received by signal generator 70 to activate the pulse width modification circuit, thereby decreasing a non-zero period of a signal generated by the current source and an overall current of an ignition signal subsequently output by the control circuit.
  • the pulse width modification circuit may be separate from a circuit of the current source or, alternatively, integrated within a circuit of the current source.
  • Various other forms of signal generators 70 may alternatively or additionally be employed, including those that apply a voltage over one or more different resistances to generate signals with different currents.
  • signal generator 70 may include a high-voltage module configured to deliver an electrical current having a high voltage.
  • signal generator 70 may include a low-voltage module configured to deliver an electrical current having a lower voltage, such as, for example, 2,000 volts.
  • a control circuit Responsive to receipt of a signal indicating activation of trigger 40 (e.g., an activation event), a control circuit provides an ignition signal to deployment unit 20.
  • signal generator 70 may provide an electrical signal as an ignition signal to deployment unit 20 in response to receiving a control signal from processing circuit 50.
  • the ignition signal may be separate and distinct from a stimulus signal.
  • a stimulus signal in CEW 1 may be provided to a different circuit within deployment unit 20, relative to a circuit to which an ignition signal is provided.
  • Signal generator 70 may be configured to generate a stimulus signal.
  • a second, separate signal generator, component, or circuit (not shown) within housing 10 may be configured to generate the stimulus signal.
  • Signal generator 70 may also provide a ground signal path for deployment unit 20, thereby completing a circuit for an electrical signal provided to deployment unit 20 by signal generator 70. The ground signal path may also be provided to deployment unit 20 by other elements in housing 10, including power supply 60.
  • a deployment unit 20 may comprise a propulsion system 80 and a plurality of projectiles, such as, for example, a first projectile 90 and a second projectile 95.
  • Deployment unit 20 may comprise any suitable or desired number of projectiles, such as, for example two projectiles, three projectiles, nine projectiles (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 3, with deployment unit 20 comprising projectiles 92-1, 92-2, 92-3, 92-4, 92-5, 92-6, 92-7, 92-8, 92-9), twelve projectiles, eighteen projectiles, and/or any other desired number of projectiles.
  • housing 10 may be configured to receive any suitable or desired number of deployment units 20, such as, for example, one deployment unit, two deployment units, three deployment units, etc.
  • propulsion system 80 may be coupled to, or in communication with, each projectile in deployment unit 20.
  • deployment unit 20 may comprise a plurality of propulsion systems 80, with each propulsion system 80 coupled to, or in communication with, one or more projectiles.
  • Propulsion system 80 may comprise any device, propellant (e.g., air, gas, etc.), primer, or the like capable of providing a propulsion force in deployment unit 20.
  • the propulsion force may include an increase in pressure caused by rapidly expanding gas within an area or chamber.
  • the propulsion force may be applied to projectiles 90, 95 in deployment unit 20 to cause the deployment of projectiles 90, 95.
  • Propulsion system 80 may provide the propulsion force in response to deployment unit 20 receiving the ignition signal.
  • the propulsion force may be directly applied to one or more projectiles 90, 95.
  • the propulsion force may be provided directly to first projectile 90 or second projectile 95.
  • Propulsion system 80 may be in fluid communication with projectiles 90, 95 to provide the propulsion force.
  • the propulsion force from propulsion system 80 may travel within a housing or channel of deployment unit 20 to one or more projectiles 90, 95.
  • the propulsion force may travel via a manifold in deployment unit 20.
  • the propulsion force may be provided indirectly to first projectile 90 and/or second projectile 95.
  • the propulsion force may be provided to a secondary source of propellant within propulsion system 80.
  • the propulsion force may launch the secondary source of propellant within propulsion system 80, causing the secondary source of propellant to release propellent.
  • a force associated with the released propellant may in turn provide a force to one or more projectiles 90, 95.
  • a force generated by a secondary source of propellent may cause projectiles 90, 95 to be deployed from the deployment unit 20 and CEW 1.
  • each projectile 90, 95 may comprise any suitable type of projectile.
  • one or more projectiles 90, 95 may be or include an electrode (e.g., an electrode dart).
  • An electrode may include a spear portion, designed to pierce or attach proximate a tissue of a target in order to provide a conductive electrical path between the electrode and the tissue, as previously discussed herein.
  • projectiles 90, 95 may each include a respective electrode. Projectiles 90, 95 may be deployed from deployment unit 20 at the same time or substantially the same time. Projectiles 90, 95 may be launched by a same propulsion force from a common propulsion system 80.
  • Projectiles 90, 95 may also be launched by one or more propulsion forces received from one or more propulsion systems 80.
  • Deployment unit 20 may include an internal manifold configured to transfer a propulsion force from propulsion system 80 to one or more projectiles 90, 95.
  • each projectile 90, 95 may comprise any suitable type of electrode.
  • a low penetrating electrode may be wire-tethered to deployment unit 20 to enable electrical current (e.g., the stimulus signal) to pass from signal generator 70, to deployment unit 20, to each respective tether wire, and through each respective electrode. As the electrodes travel toward the target, their respective wire tethers deploy behind the electrodes.
  • a low penetrating electrode may be configured to penetrate a target’s tissue at a maximum penetration depth of 13 millimeters (0.039 inches) or less. The maximum penetration depth may be determined based on medical or safety studies to at least partially reduce injuries in the target caused by penetration of the electrode into the target’ s tissue.
  • a low penetrating electrode may comprise a spear that may pierce the target’s tissue to connect the target with the electrode.
  • the spear may have a length of 13 millimeters or less to ensure that the electrode does not penetrate the target’s tissue at a depth greater than a maximum penetration depth.
  • a low penetrating electrode may also include an electrode body configured to couple at a first end to the spear and at a second end to the respective wire tether.
  • the electrode body may comprise a width greater than the spear.
  • a width or diameter of the electrode body may be greater or substantially greater than a width or diameter of the spear (e.g., twice the width of the spear, three times the width of the spear, four or more times the width of the spear, etc.).
  • the electrode body may house the wire tether prior to deployment of the electrode.
  • the electrode body may also be configured to prevent the spear from penetrating the target’s tissue at a depth greater than a maximum penetration depth. For example, the greater width of the electrode body may contact the target’s tissue and decrease velocity of the electrode and the ability of the spear to further penetrate the target’s tissue.
  • low penetrating electrodes may be unable to establish a connection with a target’s tissue in response to the target wearing one or more articles (e.g., clothes, winter clothes, body armor, etc.).
  • articles e.g., clothes, winter clothes, body armor, etc.
  • FIGs. 4A-4C the process flows depicted are merely embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.
  • the steps recited in any of the method or process descriptions may be executed in any order and are not limited to the order presented.
  • one or more steps recited in any of the method or process descriptions may be omitted.
  • Method 401 for controlling a conducted electrical weapon (CEW) using a (first) control interface is disclosed.
  • Method 401 may allow for selective deployment of one or more projectiles from a deployment unit.
  • Method 401 may also allow for selective deployment of different types of projectiles from a single deployment unit.
  • the CEW may determine a deployment unit characteristic (step 402).
  • a deployment unit characteristic may include data indicating various characteristics of the deployment unit.
  • a deployment unit characteristic may include a deployment unit type, a projectile type, a projectile position, a deployment instruction, and/or any other suitable or desired information relating to a deployment unit, a projectile, the CEW, or deployment of projectiles from the deployment unit.
  • a deployment unit type may comprise data regarding a type of the deployment unit, such as, for example, a training deployment unit, a mixed-projectile deployment unit (e.g., a deployment unit have a plurality of projectile types, such as both low penetrating projectiles and article penetrating projectiles), a same-projectile deployment unit, a low penetrating projectile deployment unit (e.g., a deployment unit comprising only low penetrating projectiles), an article penetrating projectile deployment unit (e.g., a deployment unit comprising only article penetrating projectiles), and/or the like.
  • a type of the deployment unit such as, for example, a training deployment unit, a mixed-projectile deployment unit (e.g., a deployment unit have a plurality of projectile types, such as both low penetrating projectiles and article penetrating projectiles), a same-projectile deployment unit, a low penetrating projectile deployment unit (e.g.,
  • a projectile type may comprise data regarding a type of each projectile in the deployment unit, such as for example, a low penetrating projectile, an article penetrating projectile, an other less-lethal projectile, or the like.
  • the projectile type may also comprise data regarding a number of projectiles in the deployment unit and/or a number of each projectile type in the deployment unit (e.g., 6 low penetrating projectiles, 3 article penetrating projectiles, etc.).
  • a projectile position may comprise data indicating a position of one or more projectiles in the deployment unit.
  • a deployment unit may be configured to house any suitable number of projectiles (e.g., 2, 3, 6, 9, etc.), with each projectile positioned in a bore prior to launch.
  • the projectile position may comprise data indicating which bore one or more projectiles is housed in. For example, low penetrating projectile 1 in bore 1, low penetrating projectile 2 in bore 2, etc. As a further example, article penetrating projectile 1 in bore 1, article penetrating projectile 2 in bore 2, etc. As a further example, low penetrating projectile 1 in bore 1, article penetrating projectile 1 in bore 2, etc.
  • a deployment instruction may comprise data indicating instructions for the deployment of one or more projectiles from the deployment unit.
  • the deployment instruction may comprise an order of projectile deployment, a number of projectiles deployed for each activation, or the like.
  • a deployment instruction may comprise: first trigger activation: deploy projectile 1 and projectile 2; second trigger activation: deploy projectile 3; third trigger activation: deploy projectile 4; etc.
  • a deployment instruction may comprise: first trigger activation: deploy projectile 1; second trigger activation: deploy projectile 2; third trigger activation: deploy projectile 3; etc.
  • a deployment instruction may comprise: first trigger activation: deploy three projectile; second trigger activation: deploy one projectile; third trigger activation: deploy one projectile; etc.
  • the CEW may determine the deployment unit characteristic using any suitable process.
  • a memory of a deployment unit e.g., deployment unit memory, a first memory, etc.
  • a processing circuit of a CEW may communicate with the memory of the deployment unit to retrieve and determine the deployment unit characteristic.
  • a memory of a deployment unit may store a unique identifier (e.g., a deployment unit identifier, etc.).
  • a memory of a CEW may store a list, table, or the like of unique identifiers and associated deployment unit characteristics.
  • a processing circuit of the CEW may communicate with the memory of the deployment unit to retrieve the unique identifier.
  • the processing circuit may communicate with the memory of the CEW to determine the deployment unit characteristics based on the unique identifier.
  • the CEW may receive a control mode selection (step 404).
  • the control mode selection may comprise a safety mode selection (step 404-1), a firing mode selection (step 404-2), or a penetrating mode selection (step 404-3).
  • the control mode selection may also comprise any other suitable or desired control mode.
  • the control mode selection may be received before determining the deployment unit characteristic.
  • the control mode selection may be received after determining the deployment unit characteristic.
  • the deployment unit characteristic may be determined responsive to the control mode selection.
  • the safety mode selection may be configured to prohibit deployment of projectiles from a deployment unit of the CEW.
  • the firing mode selection may be configured to enable deployment of deployment units or projectiles from the CEW.
  • the firing mode selection may also enable deployment of select projectiles, such as, for example, low penetrating projectiles by not article penetrating projectiles.
  • the penetrating mode selection may be configured to enable deployment of all deployment units or projectiles from the CEW, regardless of projectile type.
  • the CEW may receive the control mode selection using any suitable process.
  • a control interface of the CEW may receive the control mode selection.
  • the control interface may transmit the control mode selection to a processing circuit of the CEW.
  • the processing circuit may be configured to detect a control mode selection on the control interface.
  • the processing circuit may detect and receive the control mode instruction from the control interface.
  • the CEW may receive a trigger activation (step 406).
  • the trigger activation may be received by a trigger of the CEW.
  • a processing circuit of the CEW may be configured to detect the trigger activation received by the trigger.
  • the trigger in response to receiving the trigger activation the trigger may transmit the trigger activation to the processing circuit.
  • the CEW may instruct, or cause instruction to, a signal generator based on at least one of the control mode selection and the deployment unit characteristic (step 408).
  • the CEW may instruct the signal generator in response to receiving the trigger activation.
  • a processing circuit of the CEW may instruct the signal generator in response to receiving the trigger activation.
  • the signal generator may be configured to provide one or more ignition signals to the deployment unit to cause deployment of one or more projectiles.
  • the instructions transmitted to the signal may be based on at least one of the control mode selection and the deployment unit characteristic to cause selective deployment of one or more projectiles.
  • the CEW in response to the control mode selection being a safety mode selection (step 404-1), may not instruct the signal generator to provide an ignition signal. In that regard, activation of the trigger may not cause a subsequent activation of a projectile from the deployment unit.
  • the CEW in response to the control mode selection being a firing mode selection (step 404-2), the CEW may instruct the signal generator to selectively provide an ignition signal to one or more deployment units or projectiles to cause deployment of one or more projectiles.
  • the firing mode selection deployment of low penetrating projectiles may be enabled while deployment of article penetrating proj ectiles may be disabled.
  • the CEW may instruct the signal generator to selectively provide the ignition signal to cause deployment of one or more low penetrating projectiles.
  • a selection of one or more projectiles to be deployed may also be based on the deployment unit characteristic.
  • the CEW (via the processing circuit) may instruct the signal generator to provide the ignition signal to one or more projectiles based on the deployment unit type, the projectile type, the projectile position, the deployment instruction, and/or the like.
  • the CEW in response to the deployment instructions comprising instructions to deploy projectile 1, projectile 2, and projectile 3 in response to a trigger activation, the CEW may instruct the signal generator to provide the ignition signal to cause deployment of projectile 1, projectile 2, and projectile 3.
  • the CEW may instruct the signal generator to only provide the ignition signal to cause deployment of the projectile 1, projectile 2, and/or projectile 3 that is not an article penetrating projection, and/or may instruct the signal generator to provide the ignition signal to cause deployment of additional projectiles such that three total non-article penetrating projectiles are deployed.
  • the CEW may not instruct the signal generator to provide an ignition signal. In that regard, activation of the trigger may not cause a subsequent activation of a projectile from the deployment unit.
  • the CEW in response to the deployment unit being unable to deploy a projectile based on the control mode selection and/or deployment unit characteristics, the CEW may notify the operator (e.g., via a sound, warning, user display, or the like).
  • the CEW may instruct the signal generator to selectively provide an ignition signal to one or more deployment units or projectiles to cause deployment of one or more projectiles.
  • deployment of low penetrating projectiles and article penetrating projectiles may be enabled.
  • the CEW may instruct the signal generator to selectively provide the ignition signal to cause deployment of one or more low penetrating projectiles and/or article penetrating projectiles.
  • a selection of one or more projectiles to be deployed may also be based on the deployment unit characteristic.
  • the CEW may instruct the signal generator to provide the ignition signal to one or more projectiles based on the deployment unit type, the projectile type, the projectile position, the deployment instruction, and/or the like.
  • the CEW may instruct the signal generator to provide the ignition signal to cause deployment of projectile 1, projectile 2, and projectile 3.
  • the CEW may instruct the signal generator to provide the ignition signal to cause deployment of two article penetrating electrodes.
  • the CEW may instruct the signal generator to provide the ignition signal to cause deployment of one article penetrating electrode and two low penetrating electrodes.
  • Method 421 for controlling a CEW using a (second) control interface is disclosed.
  • Method 421 may allow for selective deployment of one or more projectiles from a deployment unit.
  • method 421 may enable the selection of one, two, three, or any other suitable number of projectiles for deployment.
  • the CEW may determine a deployment unit characteristic (step 422).
  • a deployment unit characteristic may include data indicating various characteristics of the deployment unit.
  • a deployment unit characteristic may include a deployment unit type, a projectile type, a projectile position, a deployment instruction, and/or any other suitable or desired information relating to a deployment unit, a projectile, the CEW, or deployment of projectiles from the deployment unit. The deployment unit characteristic is discussed in more detail in method 401, with reference to FIG. 4A.
  • the CEW may determine the deployment unit characteristic using any suitable process.
  • the CEW may determine the deployment unit characteristic similar to determining the deployment unit characteristic in step 404, with brief reference to FIG. 4A.
  • a memory of a deployment unit e.g., deployment unit memory, a first memory, etc.
  • a processing circuit of a CEW may communicate with the memory of the deployment unit to retrieve and determine the deployment unit characteristic.
  • a memory of a deployment unit may store a unique identifier (e.g., a deployment unit identifier, etc.).
  • a memory of a CEW may store a list, table, or the like of unique identifiers and associated deployment unit characteristics.
  • a processing circuit of the CEW may communicate with the memory of the deployment unit to retrieve the unique identifier.
  • the processing circuit may communicate with the memory of the CEW to determine the deployment unit characteristics based on the unique identifier.
  • the CEW may receive a control mode selection (step 424).
  • the control mode selection may comprise a fire one selection (step 424-1), a fire two selection (step 424-2), or a fire three selection (step 424-3).
  • the control mode selection may also comprise any other suitable or desired control mode.
  • the control mode selection may be received before determining the deployment unit characteristic.
  • the control mode selection may be received after determining the deployment unit characteristic.
  • the deployment unit characteristic may be determined responsive to the control mode selection.
  • the control mode selection may also be data from the deployment unit characteristic.
  • the fire one selection may be configured to enable a single deployment of a projectile from a deployment unit, in response to a trigger activation.
  • the fire two selection may be configured to enable a deployment of two projectiles from a deployment unit, in response to a trigger activation.
  • the fire three selection may be configured to enable a deployment of three projectiles from a deployment unit, in response to a trigger activation.
  • the CEW may receive the control mode selection using any suitable process.
  • a control interface of the CEW may receive the control mode selection.
  • the control interface may transmit the control mode selection to a processing circuit of the CEW.
  • the processing circuit may be configured to detect a control mode selection on the control interface.
  • the processing circuit may detect and receive the control mode instruction from the control interface.
  • the CEW may receive a trigger activation (step 426).
  • the CEW may receive the trigger activation similar to receiving a trigger activation in step 406, with brief reference to FIG. 4 A.
  • the trigger activation may be received by a trigger of the CEW.
  • a processing circuit of the CEW may be configured to detect the trigger activation received by the trigger.
  • the trigger in response to receiving the trigger activation the trigger may transmit the trigger activation to the processing circuit.
  • the CEW may instruct, or cause instruction to, a signal generator based on at least one of the control mode selection and the deployment unit characteristic (step 428).
  • the CEW may instruct the signal generator in response to receiving the trigger activation.
  • a processing circuit of the CEW may instruct the signal generator in response to receiving the trigger activation.
  • the signal generator may be configured to provide one or more ignition signals to the deployment unit to cause deployment of one or more projectiles.
  • the instructions transmitted to the signal may be based on at least one of the control mode selection and the deployment unit characteristic to cause selective deployment of one or more projectiles.
  • the CEW in response to the control mode selection being a fire one selection (step 424-1) the CEW may instruct the signal generator to selectively provide an ignition signal to one deployment unit or projectile to cause deployment of a single projectile.
  • the CEW in response to the control mode selection being a fire two selection (step 424-2) the CEW may instruct the signal generator to selectively provide an ignition signal to one or two deployment units or projectiles to cause deployment of two projectiles.
  • the CEW in response to the control mode selection being a fire three selection (step 424-3) the CEW may instruct the signal generator to selectively provide an ignition signal to one, two, or three deployment units or projectiles to cause deployment of three projectiles.
  • a selection of one or more projectiles to be deployed may also be based on the deployment unit characteristic.
  • the CEW (via the processing circuit) may instruct the signal generator to provide the ignition signal to one or more projectiles based on the deployment unit type, the projectile type, the projectile position, the deployment instruction, and/or the like.
  • the CEW in response to the deployment unit characteristics comprising instructions to deploy certain projectiles, or an order of projectiles, in response to a trigger activation, the CEW may instruct the signal generator to provide the ignition signal to cause deployment of projectiles based on the instructions to deploy certain projectiles or the order of projectiles.
  • the deployment unit characteristics may define the three projectiles to be deployed.
  • the deployment unit characteristics may define deployment of projectiles 92-2, 92-5, and 92-8 in response to a first trigger activation (e.g., a line deployment).
  • the deployment unit characteristics may define deployment of projectiles 92-2, 92-7, and 92-9 in response to a first trigger activation (e.g., a triangle deployment).
  • the deployment unit characteristics may also define any other arrangement, number, or order of deployment of projectiles, independently or based on each control mode selection.
  • the processing circuit in response to a control mode selection defining a number of projectiles to be deployed that is greater than a number of projectiles available for deployment in the deployment unit, the processing circuit may instruct the signal generator to provide an ignition signal to cause deployment of all remaining projectiles in the deployment unit. In various embodiments, the processing circuit may also notify the operator (e.g., via a sound, warning, user display, or the like).
  • Method 441 for controlling a CEW using a first control interface and a second control interface is disclosed.
  • Method 441 may allow for selective deployment of one or more projectiles from a deployment unit.
  • Method 401 may also allow for selective deployment of different types of projectiles from a single deployment unit.
  • the CEW may determine a deployment unit characteristic (step 442).
  • a deployment unit characteristic may include data indicating various characteristics of the deployment unit.
  • a deployment unit characteristic may include a deployment unit type, a projectile type, a projectile position, a deployment instruction, and/or any other suitable or desired information relating to a deployment unit, a projectile, the CEW, or deployment of projectiles from the deployment unit. The deployment unit characteristic is discussed in more detail in method 401 with reference to FIG. 4 A, and method 421 with reference to FIG. 4B.
  • the CEW may determine the deployment unit characteristic using any suitable process.
  • a memory of a deployment unit e.g., deployment unit memory, a first memory, etc.
  • a processing circuit of a CEW may communicate with the memory of the deployment unit to retrieve and determine the deployment unit characteristic.
  • a memory of a deployment unit may store a unique identifier (e.g., a deployment unit identifier, etc.).
  • a memory of a CEW (e.g., a CEW memory, a second memory, etc.) may store a list, table, or the like of unique identifiers and associated deployment unit characteristics.
  • a processing circuit of the CEW may communicate with the memory of the deployment unit to retrieve the unique identifier.
  • the processing circuit may communicate with the memory of the CEW to determine the deployment unit characteristics based on the unique identifier.
  • the CEW may receive a first control mode selection (step 444).
  • the control mode selection may comprise a safety mode selection (step 444-1), a firing mode selection (step 444-2), or a penetrating mode selection (step 444-3).
  • the CEW may receive a first control mode selection similar to receiving a control mode selection in method 401, with brief reference to FIG. 4A.
  • the CEW may receive the first control mode selection using any suitable process.
  • a first control interface of the CEW may receive the first control mode selection.
  • the first control interface may transmit the first control mode selection to a processing circuit of the CEW.
  • the processing circuit may be configured to detect a first control mode selection on the first control interface.
  • the processing circuit may detect and receive the first control mode instruction from the first control interface.
  • the CEW may receive a second control mode selection (step 446).
  • the control mode selection may comprise a fire one selection (step 446-1), a fire two selection (step 446-2), or a fire three selection (step 446-3).
  • the CEW may receive a second control mode selection similar to receiving a control mode selection in method 421, with brief reference to FIG. 4B.
  • the CEW may receive the second control mode selection using any suitable process.
  • a second control interface of the CEW may receive the second control mode selection.
  • the second control interface may transmit the second control mode selection to a processing circuit of the CEW.
  • the processing circuit may be configured to detect a second control mode selection on the second control interface.
  • the processing circuit may detect and receive the second control mode instruction from the second control interface.
  • the first control mode selection, the second control mode selection, and the deployment unit characteristic may be received and determined in any suitable or desired order.
  • the first control mode selection and/or the second control mode selection may be received before determining the deployment unit characteristic.
  • the first control mode selection and/or the second control selection may be received after determining the deployment unit characteristic.
  • the deployment unit characteristic may be determined responsive to the first control mode selection and/or the second control mode selection.
  • the CEW may receive a trigger activation (step 448).
  • the CEW may receive the trigger activation similar to receiving a trigger activation in step 406, with brief reference to FIG. 4 A.
  • the trigger activation may be received by a trigger of the CEW.
  • a processing circuit of the CEW may be configured to detect the trigger activation received by the trigger.
  • the trigger in response to receiving the trigger activation the trigger may transmit the trigger activation to the processing circuit.
  • the CEW may instruct, or cause instruction to, a signal generator based on at least one of the first control mode selection, the second control mode selection, and the deployment unit characteristic (step 450).
  • the CEW may instruct the signal generator in response to receiving the trigger activation.
  • a processing circuit of the CEW may instruct the signal generator in response to receiving the trigger activation.
  • the signal generator may be configured to provide one or more ignition signals to the deployment unit to cause deployment of one or more projectiles.
  • the instructions transmitted to the signal may be based on at least one of the first control mode selection, the second control mode selection, and the deployment unit characteristic to cause selective deployment of one or more projectiles. Examples of deployments based on the first control mode selection are discussed in more detail in method 401, with brief reference to FIG. 4A.
  • Examples of deployments based on the second control mode selection are discussed in more detail in method 421, with brief reference to FIG. 4B.
  • Examples of deployments based on deployment unit characteristics are discussed in more detail in both method 401 and method 421, with reference to FIGs. 4A and 4B. Further examples of deployments based on one or more of the first control mode selection, the second control mode selection, and the deployment unit characteristic are provided below.
  • the CEW may selectively enable the deployment of a single low penetrating projectile with each trigger activation.
  • the CEW may selectively enable the deployment of two projectiles for each trigger activation, where each of the projectiles may be a low penetrating projectile or an article penetrating projectile.
  • the CEW may further selectively enable the deployment of the two projectiles in accordance with the deployment unit characteristic.
  • an electrode 100 (e.g., an article penetrating electrode) is disclosed. Electrode 100 may be configured to penetrate articles worn by a target to ensure that electrode 100 is able to establish a connection with the target’s tissue. In that respect, electrode 100 may increase penetrability and connectivity to a target’s tissue in contrast to low penetrating electrodes. Electrode 100 may be configured to penetrate articles worn by the target, such as, for example, thick clothing, layered clothing, winter clothing, and the like. Electrode 100 may be configured to penetrate body armor (e.g., bullet proof vests, etc.) up to a National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Level IIIA classification standard (and including NIJ Levels below IIIA). Penetration capabilities of electrode 100 may be a function of the size, shape, weight, and deployment velocity of electrode 100, in addition to other variables.
  • NIJ National Institute of Justice
  • electrode 100 may be deployed from a deployment unit of a CEW at a greater velocity in comparison to low penetrating electrodes. For example, electrode 100 may be deployed at a greater velocity to aid electrode 100 in penetrating one or more articles. In various embodiments, electrode 100 may also be provided a greater electrical charge (or stimulus signal) from a signal generator of a CEW in comparison to low penetrating electrodes. For example, electrode 100 may be provided with an electrical charge comprising 100 microcoulombs per pulse, whereas another electrode may be provided with an electrical charge comprising 70 microcoulombs per pulse.
  • electrode 100 may comprise a body 101 having a contact end 105 opposite a tether end 107.
  • Body 101 may comprise any suitable size and shape configured to aid (or not prevent) electrode 100 in penetrating articles.
  • Body 101 may comprise a length greater than a length of low penetrating electrodes and/or spears of electrodes (e.g., wherein length is defined as the distance between contact end 105 and tether end 107 of electrode 101).
  • Body 101 may comprise a length greater than a length of a low penetrating electrode configured to comply with a maximum penetration depth.
  • body 101 may comprise a length greater than 13 millimeters (0.039 inches).
  • Body 101 may comprise a shape configured to minimize tissue damage in a target’s tissue, in response to electrode 100 penetrating the target’s tissue.
  • Body 101 may comprise an aerodynamic shape.
  • Body 101 may comprise an elongated shape, such as a needle shape, a pin shape, a cylindrical shape, or the like.
  • a width or diameter of body 101 may not change between contact end 105 and tether end 107 or may change by less than ten percent, less than twenty percent, less than thirty percent, less than forty percent, or less than fifty percent between contact end 105 and tether end 107.
  • the width or diameter of body 101 may not change or may change by less than such percentages along at least fifty percent, at least sixty percent, at least seventy percent, at least eighty percent, or at least ninety percent of a length of body 101 between contact end 105 and tether end 107, perpendicular to the width or diameter of body 101.
  • Body 101 may comprise any suitable material having electrically conductive properties.
  • body 101 may comprise a material having a greater weight in comparison to materials used by low penetrating electrodes. The weight may aid electrode 100 in maintaining velocity, stability, and accuracy in response to being deployed from a CEW.
  • body 101 may comprise a tungsten metal material.
  • body 101 may comprise or be coupled to a wide portion proximate tether end 107.
  • the wide portion may be sized and shaped to at least partially prevent tether end 107 and tether 110 from entering target tissue.
  • the wide portion may be sized and shaped to at least partially stop momentum of electrode 100 after electrode 100 has contacted the target and pierced target tissue.
  • the wide portion may also be configured to increase flight stability of electrode 101, and/or increase deployment velocity of electrode 101 (e.g., by acting as a wad).
  • Contact end 105 may be configured to penetrate articles and connect electrode 100 with a target’s tissue.
  • Contact end 105 may comprise a sharp or pointed end configured to aid electrode 100 in penetrating articles and connecting with a target’s tissue.
  • Contact end 105 may be configured to aid in retaining electrode 100 in a target’s tissue in response to electrode 100 connecting with the target’s tissue.
  • contact end 105 may comprise or be coupled to an electrode attachment 220.
  • Electrode attachment 220 may also be located at any other location on body 101 suitable to aid in retaining electrode 100 in the target’s tissue.
  • Electrode attachment 220 may comprise any suitable component or material configured to aid retention of electrode 100.
  • electrode attachment 220 may comprise a barbed hook, a protrusion, an angled protrusion, or the like.
  • electrode attachment 220 may comprise a dissolvable material configured to dissolve (fully or partially) in response to electrode attachment 220 penetrating a target’s tissue.
  • the dissolvable material may aid in minimizing damage to the target’s tissue upon removal of electrode 100 from the target’s tissue (e.g., post-dissolution of the electrode attachment).
  • Electrode attachment 220 may comprise any material dissolvable in a liquid solvent (e.g., a water-soluble material, a biodegradable material, etc.).
  • electrode attachment 220 may comprise a salt material.
  • the rate of dissolution may be based on operational factors such as temperature.
  • the rate of dissolution may also be configurable based on factors such as the amount of dissolvable material used to form electrode attachment 220.
  • the factors may be adjusted such that the dissolvable material dissolves (fully or partially) at a dissolving time.
  • the dissolving time may enable electrode 100 to be retained in the target’s tissue for a period of time before the material dissolves to allow the electrode to be removed with minimized damage to the target’s tissue.
  • the dissolving time may comprise any suitable or desired time or range of times, such as, for example, one minute, one to two minutes, etc.
  • electrode attachment 220 may be located at any position on electrode 100 between contact end 105 and tether end 107.
  • electrode attachment 220 may be located on a midpoint of body 101. Electrode attachment 220 may therefore be configured to allow contact end 105 to pierce the target prior to electrode attachment 220 contacting the target or the tissue of the target to at least partially aid in retaining electrode 100 in the target or tissue of the target.
  • electrode attachment 220 may also be sized and shaped to at least partially reduce momentum in response to electrode attachment 220 contacting the target or target tissue. In that regard, electrode attachment 220 may be configured to allow contact end 105 to pierce the target prior to electrode attachment 220 contacting the target or the tissue of the target to reduce momentum of the electrode.
  • tether end 107 may be configured to couple body 101 to a tether 110.
  • Tether 110 may be configured to electrically couple electrode 100 to a deployment unit of a CEW (e.g., deployment unit 20 of CEW 1, with brief reference to FIG. 1).
  • Tether 110 may comprise any suitable electrically conductive materially capable of completing the electrical coupling.
  • Tether 110 may couple to body 101 using any suitable method, such as, for example, laser welding, crimping, or the like.
  • electrode 100 in contrast to low penetrating electrodes having a spear coupled to a body, and a wire tether coupled to the body, electrode 100 may comprise a single monolithic structure coupled directly to tether 110.
  • tether 110 may also be configured to aid in removal of electrode 100 from a target’s tissue.
  • tether 110 may comprise a first tether portion 315-1 (e.g., an electrode attaching portion) and a second tether portion 315-2 (e.g., a deployment unit attaching portion).
  • first tether portion 315-1 may be configured to allow a user to retrieve an electrode 100 from the target’s tissue by pulling on first tether portion 315-1.
  • First tether portion 315-1 may comprise a material having a greater tensile strength in comparison to second tether portion 315-2.
  • Second tether portion 315-2 may comprise a filament wire.
  • First tether portion 315-1 may be coupled at a first end to body 101 and at a second end to second tether portion 315-2.
  • Second tether portion 315-2 may be coupled at a first end to first tether portion 315-1 and at a second end to a deployment unit. In that regard, electrical charge may pass from the deployment unit to second tether portion 315-2, from second tether portion 315-
  • tether 110 may also comprise any number of tether portions, with one or more of the tether portions having different tensile strengths.
  • body 101 may comprise any suitable or desired surface coating.
  • a surface coating may aid in retaining electrode 100 in a target’s tissue.
  • a surface coating such as a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) based material (e.g., TEFLON ® offered by the DuPont Company), may be degraded (e.g., deformed, scratched, roughened, etc.). The degraded surface may increase friction against the target’s tissue to aid in retaining electrode 100 in the target’s tissue.
  • PTFE polytetrafluoroethylene
  • a surface coating may also be configured to control the discharge of electrical current from electrode 100 to the target’s tissue.
  • body 101 may comprise a resistance coating 440.
  • Resistance coating 440 may comprise one or more materials offering electrical resistance at varying levels.
  • Resistance coating 440 may comprise any suitable insulating material and/or material comprising high electrical resistance.
  • resistance coating 440 may comprise a PTFE based material.
  • Resistance coating 440 may be configured to control the discharge of electrical current from electrode 100.
  • an electrical charge traveling from tether 110 into body 101 may discharge into a target’s tissue at a path of least resistance.
  • resistance coating 440 located on, or proximate to, contact end 105 on body 101 may comprise a greater resistance than resistance coating 440 located on, or proximate to, tether end 107 on body 101. Therefore, varying the level of resistance across body 101 may allow electrode 100 to control the discharge of electrical current, as discussed further herein.
  • resistance coating 440 may comprise one or more coating areas on body 101, with each coating area having a varied level of electrical resistance.
  • FIG. 5E depicts a resistance coating 440 having a first resistance coating 440-1, a second resistance coating 440-2, a third resistance coating 440-3, and an “Nth” resistance coating 440-n (e.g., as depicted with cross-hatchings in FIG. 5E).
  • Resistance coating 440 may also comprise any other number of distinct coating areas on body 101, or may comprise a resistance decreasing at any rate from contact end 105 to tether end 107.
  • First resistance coating 440-1 may comprise a resistance greater than second resistance coating 440-2, third resistance coating 440-3, and Nth resistance coating 440-n.
  • Second resistance coating 440-2 may comprise a resistance greater than third resistance coating 440-3 and Nth resistance coating 440-n, but less than first resistance coating 440-1.
  • Third resistance coating 440- 3 may comprise a resistance greater than Nth resistance coating 440-n, but less than first resistance coating 440-1 and second resistance coating 440-2.
  • Nth resistance coating 440-n may comprise a resistance less than first resistance coating 440-1, second resistance coating 440-2, and third resistance coating 440-3.
  • first resistance coating 440-1 may be insulated at 500 volts
  • second resistance coating 440-2 may be insulated at 400 volts
  • third resistance coating 440- 3 may be insulated at 200 volts
  • Nth resistance coating 440-n may not be insulated.
  • an electrical charge may pass through electrode 100 to complete an electrical circuit with a second electrode coupled to the target’s tissue.
  • the electrical charge may pass through a portion of body 101 of electrode 100 having the least resistance to complete the electrical circuit.
  • the electrical charge may pass through Nth resistance coating 440-n to complete the electrical circuit.
  • resistance coating 440 may further minimize damage to a target’s tissue (or a target’s organs), by limiting the electrical charge from being discharged in the target’s body at a depth deeper than necessary to complete the electrical circuit.
  • a level of resistance across a body of an electrode 100 may be controlled by selectively exposing area of the electrode’s body (e.g., a surface area of the electrode body not covered by a resistance coating).
  • an electrode 100 may comprise a body 101 having a resistance coating 540 (e.g., depicted with cross-hatching in FIG. 6).
  • Resistance coating 540 may be similar to resistance coating 440, with brief reference to FIG. 5E.
  • resistance coating 540 may comprise one or more materials offering electrical resistance.
  • Resistance coating 540 may comprise any suitable insulating material and/or material such as, for example, a PTFE based material.
  • Resistance coating 540 may also comprise any other number of distinct coating areas on body 101, or may comprise a resistance decreasing at any rate from contact end 105 to tether end 107.
  • Resistance coating 540 may comprise a plurality of exposed surfaces 550. Exposed surfaces 550 may be configured to control the discharge of electrical current from electrode 100.
  • resistance coating 540 may comprise a first exposed surface 550-1, a second exposed surface 550-2, a third exposed surface 550-3, a fourth exposed surface 550-4, a fifth exposed surface 550-5, a sixth exposed surface 550-6, a seventh exposed surface 550-7, an eighth exposed surface 550-8, a ninth exposed surface 550-9, and/or any other number of exposed surfaces 550 suitable to control the discharge of electrical current from electrode 100.
  • Each exposed surface 550 may comprise a portion of body 101 that is not covered by resistance coating 540 (e.g., each exposed surface may define a void through resistance coating 540). In various embodiments, one or more exposed surfaces 550 may be formed by not applying a resistance coating 540 to the surface area defined by an exposed surface 550. In various embodiments, one or more exposed surfaces 550 may be formed by removing a resistance coating 540 on a portion of resistance coating 540 defined by an exposed surface 550. Each exposed surface 550 may comprise any suitable length, width, dimensions, shape, surface area, and the like.
  • Exposed surfaces 550 may vary in physical properties and number such that an amount of surface area (e.g., a first surface area, a high resistance surface area, etc.) exposed on or proximate to contact end 105 of body 101 is less than an amount of surface area (e.g., a second surface area, a low resistance surface area, etc.) exposed on or proximate to tether end 107 of body 101.
  • an amount of surface area e.g., a first surface area, a high resistance surface area, etc.
  • an amount of surface area e.g., a second surface area, a low resistance surface area, etc.
  • an amount of exposed surface area may ascend from contact end 105 to tether end 107 (e.g., descend from tether end 107 to contact end 105).
  • resistance coating 540 may be separated into one or more portions having varying amounts of exposed surface areas. The portions may overlap or may comprise distinct areas of body 101.
  • a first portion of resistance coating 540 may comprise first exposed surface 550-1
  • a second portion of resistance coating 540 may comprise second exposed surface 550-2
  • a third portion of resistance coating 540 may comprise third exposed surface 550-3 and fourth exposed surface 550-4
  • a fourth portion of resistance coating 540 may comprise fifth exposed surface 550- 5
  • a fifth portion of resistance coating 540 may comprise sixth exposed surface 550-6
  • a sixth portion of resistance coating 540 may comprise seventh exposed surface 550-7
  • a seventh portion of resistance coating 540 may comprise eighth exposed surface 550-8
  • an eighth portion of resistance coating 540 (or a portion of body 101 having no resistance coating 540) may comprise ninth exposed surface 550-9, and/or any combination thereof.
  • the first portion may comprise an exposed surface area smaller than the second portion, the third portion, the fourth portion, the fifth portion, the sixth portion, the seventh portion, and the eighth portion.
  • the second portion may comprise an exposed surface area greater than the first portion, but smaller than the third portion, the fourth portion, the fifth portion, the sixth portion, the seventh portion, and the eighth portion.
  • the third portion may comprise an exposed surface area greater than the first portion and the second portion, but smaller than the fourth portion, the fifth portion, the sixth portion, the seventh portion, and the eighth portion.
  • the fourth portion may comprise an exposed surface area greater than the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion, but smaller than the fifth portion, the sixth portion, the seventh portion, and the eighth portion.
  • the fifth portion may comprise an exposed surface area greater than the first portion, the second portion, the third portion, and the fourth portion, but smaller than the sixth portion, the seventh portion, and the eighth portion.
  • the sixth portion may comprise an exposed surface area greater than the first portion, the second portion, the third portion, the fourth portion, and the fifth portion but smaller than the seventh portion and the eighth portion.
  • the seventh portion may comprise an exposed surface area greater than the first portion, the second portion, the third portion, the fourth portion, the fifth portion, and the sixth portion but smaller than the eighth portion.
  • the eighth portion may comprise an exposed surface area greater than the first portion, the second portion, the third portion, the fourth portion, the fifth portion, the sixth portion, and the seventh portion.
  • an electrical charge traveling from tether 110 into body 101 may discharge into a target’s tissue at a path of least resistance.
  • an electrical charge may pass through electrode 100 to complete an electrical circuit with a second electrode coupled to the target’s tissue.
  • the electrical charge may pass through a portion of body 101 of electrode 100 having the least resistance to complete the electrical circuit.
  • the path of least resistance may be controlled via the exposed surfaces 550.
  • the electrical charge traveling from body 101 may discharge from electrode 100 into the target’s tissue at a location in contact with the largest conductive surface area of body 101.
  • the electrical charge may pass through ninth exposed surface 550-9 to complete the electrical circuit (e.g., the largest conductive surface area in contact with the target’s tissue).
  • the electrical charge may pass through third exposed surface 550-3 and/or fourth exposed surface 550-4 to complete the electrical circuit.
  • resistance coating 540 having exposed surfaces 550 may further minimize damage to a target’s tissue (or a target’ s organs), by limiting the electrical charge from being discharged into the target’ s body at a depth deeper than necessary to complete the electrical circuit.
  • body 101 may comprise one or more materials configured to control a discharge of electrical current from electrode 100 to the target’s tissue.
  • body 101 may comprise a carbon fiber composite material, and/or any other similar composite material comprising similar properties. Electricity may experience greater electrical resistance when flowing through a composite material. Composite materials can also be designed to have a range of electrical conductivity. Body 101 may comprise a composite material configured to comprise an electrical conductivity less than that of the human body (e.g., target tissue). Electrical current flowing from tether end 107 (e.g., via tether 110) to contact end 105 in a body 101 comprising the composite material may be discharged at the earliest portion of body 101 proximate tether end 107 that is in contact with the target’s tissue.
  • tether end 107 e.g., via tether 110
  • the electrical current may be discharged proximate tether end 107, and not discharged proximate contact end 105.
  • the electrical current may be discharged proximate contact end 105.
  • body 101 comprising a composite material may further minimize damage to a target’s tissue (or a target’s organs) by limiting the electrical charge from being discharged into the target’s body at a depth deeper than necessary to complete the electrical circuit.
  • body 101 may comprise a plurality of materials with at least one material comprising a different electrical resistance than a second material. Materials comprising different electrical resistances may be interspersed in body 101 to control discharge of electrical current from body 101. For example, materials comprising a higher electrical resistance may be placed proximate contact end 105, and materials comprising a lower electrical resistance may be placed proximate tether end 107.
  • body 101 may comprise a metal material interspersed with a resistive material.
  • the resistive materials may comprise a conductive plastic or similar material, or may comprise a material comprising insulative properties. The resistive material may be interspersed in body 101 to control the discharge of electrical current.
  • electrode 100 may comprise one or more features, mechanical structures, or the like configured to increase stability of flight of electrode 100, aid in deployment of electrode 100, and/or the like.
  • electrode 100 may comprise one or more aerodynamic features, such as a first aerodynamic feature 660 and a second aerodynamic feature 670.
  • Aerodynamic features 660, 670 may comprise any suitable feature, structure, component, material, or the like configured to at least partially aid in increasing stability of flight, aerodynamic characteristics, accuracy of deployment, and/or deployment velocity of electrode 100.
  • Aerodynamic features 660, 670 may comprise a rigid structural feature. Aerodynamic features 660, 670 may comprise a flexible or semi-flexible feature. Aerodynamic features 660, 670 may be coupled to an outer surface of body 101. Aerodynamic features 660, 670 may be coupled to body 101 at any suitable location. Aerodynamic features 660, 670 may be coupled to body 101 proximate tether end 107.
  • aerodynamic features 660, 670 may each comprise one or more aerodynamic fins.
  • An aerodynamic fin may comprise any suitable size or shape.
  • each aerodynamic fin may be sized and shaped to at least partially aid in increasing stability of flight, aerodynamic characteristics, accuracy of deployment, and/or deployment velocity of electrode 100.
  • an aerodynamic fin may comprise an elliptical fin shape.
  • an aerodynamic fin may comprise a trapezoidal shape, a square shape, a rectangular shape, a slipped delta shape, and/or any other suitable or desired shape.
  • An aerodynamic fin may be oriented in any suitable direction on body 101, and may be oriented in a fixed plane or may be displaced relative to the surface of body 101.
  • aerodynamic features 660, 670 may also comprise an aerodynamic stabilization device, such as or similar to an arrow fletching.
  • the aerodynamic stabilization device may be configured to stabilize electrode 100 during flight by causing electrode 100 to spin after deployment. The spin may at least partially aid in the flight path of electrode 100 while also preserving velocity, accuracy, and impact force of electrode 100.
  • an outer surface of body 101 may also comprise one or more aerodynamic features.
  • body 101 may comprise one or more grooves configured to increase aerodynamic characteristics.
  • the one or more grooves may be oriented in any direction and may comprise any suitable shape or characteristics.
  • body 101 may comprise one or more ridges configured to increase aerodynamic characteristics.
  • the one or more ridges may be oriented in any direction, and may comprise any suitable size, shape, or characteristic.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Radar, Positioning & Navigation (AREA)
  • Remote Sensing (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • User Interface Of Digital Computer (AREA)
  • Electrotherapy Devices (AREA)

Abstract

Une électrode de pénétration d'article peut être utilisée dans une arme à conduction électrique ("CEW"). L'électrode de pénétration d'article peut être configurée pour pénétrer à travers des articles portés par une cible, telle qu'un vêtement et un vêtement blindé. L'électrode de pénétration d'article peut avoir un corps allongé ou une forme d'aiguille configurée pour aider l'électrode de pénétration d'article à pénétrer dans l'article. Le corps allongé peut avoir une extrémité de contact opposée à une extrémité d'attache. L'électrode de pénétration d'article peut comprendre une attache couplée directement à l'extrémité d'attache et configurée pour fournir un courant électrique à l'électrode de pénétration d'article.
PCT/US2020/046489 2019-08-14 2020-08-14 Électrode de pénétration d'article WO2021101604A1 (fr)

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EP2457056B1 (fr) * 2009-07-23 2017-09-06 Axon Enterprise, Inc. Arme électronique munie d une électrode à étalement d intensité de courant
CN107238318A (zh) * 2017-04-11 2017-10-10 苏力 一种组合式连发电子武器
WO2018029465A1 (fr) * 2016-08-09 2018-02-15 Brydges Price Richard Ian Projectile à nez comportant un sac de gaz s'agrandissant en cas d'impact pour réduire la vélocité

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US20140233146A1 (en) * 2009-06-12 2014-08-21 Taser International, Inc. Apparatus And Methods For A Wire-Tethered Electrode For An Electronic Weapon
EP2457056B1 (fr) * 2009-07-23 2017-09-06 Axon Enterprise, Inc. Arme électronique munie d une électrode à étalement d intensité de courant
WO2018029465A1 (fr) * 2016-08-09 2018-02-15 Brydges Price Richard Ian Projectile à nez comportant un sac de gaz s'agrandissant en cas d'impact pour réduire la vélocité
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