CONDUCTED ELECTRICAL WEAPON WITH ENTANGLING PROJECTILE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a conducted electrical weapon (“CEW”) comprising one or more entangling projectiles by which an electrical stimulus signal may be provided.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The subject matter of the present disclosure is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification. A more complete understanding of the present disclosure, however, may best be obtained by referring to the detailed description and claims when considered in connection with the following illustrative figures. In the following figures, like reference numbers refer to similar elements and steps throughout the figures.

FIG. 1 illustrates a CEW, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIGS. 2A-D illustrate at least one entangling projectile deployed from a CEW in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 3 illustrates an entangling projectile in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 4 illustrates a CEW comprising a deployment unit with an entangling projectile in accordance with various embodiments; and

FIG. 5 illustrates a method of providing different types of interference according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

Elements and/or steps in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been rendered according to any particular sequence. For example, steps that may be performed concurrently or in different order are illustrated in the figures to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description of exemplary embodiments herein makes reference to the accompanying drawings, which show exemplary embodiments by way of illustration. While these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosures, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that logical changes and adaptations in design and construction may be made in accordance with this disclosure and the teachings herein. Thus, the detailed description herein is presented for purposes of illustration only and not of limitation.

The scope of the disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents rather than by merely the examples described. For example, the steps recited in any of the method or process descriptions may be executed in any order and are not necessarily limited to the order presented. Furthermore, any reference to singular includes plural embodiments, and any reference to more than one component or step may include a singular embodiment or step. Also, any reference to attached, fixed, coupled, connected, or the like may include permanent, removable, temporary, partial, full, and/or any other possible attachment option.

In embodiments according to various aspects of the present disclosure, systems, methods, and apparatuses are provided for interfering with voluntary locomotion (e.g., walking, running, moving, etc.) of a target. As further discussed below, interfering with the voluntary locomotion may involve an interaction between the target and one or more projectiles. In some embodiments, interfering with the voluntary locomotion may comprise a combination of mechanical and electrical interference selectively applied via the one or more projectiles.

In some embodiments, interfering with voluntary locomotion may at least comprise mechanically interfering with the locomotion of a target. Mechanical interference may comprise applying a physical force to a portion of a body of the target. For example, an entangling projectile may be configured to wrap around (e.g., entangle, envelop, encircle) the portion of the body of the target. The entangling projectile may firmly envelop the portion of the body such that movement of the portion of the body of the target may be prevented. When the portion of the body comprises a limb of the target, voluntary locomotion of the limb may be prevented. When the portion of the body comprises a limb and another portion of the body, the limb and the other portion of the body may be secured together by an entangling projectile such that the limb is immobile. For example, legs of a body of a target entangled by an entangling projectile may be prevented from being repositioned by the target, thereby preventing the target from walking or performing other locomotion by foot.

In embodiments, an entangling projectile may comprise a two or more weights and at least one tether coupled to the two or more weights. In some embodiments, the entangling projectile may comprise a net-type device. The at least one tether of the net-type device may comprise a plurality of tethers interconnected to form a web structure. The web structure may expand in two perpendicular directions and the two or more weights may be positioned around a periphery of the web structure. In other embodiments, the entangling projectile may comprise a bola-type device. The bola-type device may comprise a pair of weights and the at least one tether may comprise a durable cord that interconnects the pair of weights.

In embodiments, an entangling projectile may be configured to interfere with a target at a remote location. The entangling projectile may comprise a deployable entangling projectile configured to be launched toward the target at the remote location. To cause remote interference, an entanglement device may comprise the deployable entangling projectile and a handle (e.g., launcher) from which the entangling projectile is deployed. Responsive to an activation signal received at the handle, the entangling projectile may be launched toward a remote location. Upon impact with a target at the remote location, the entangling projectile may interfere with locomotion of the target. Such an arrangement may enable a minimum distance to be maintained between a user of the entanglement device and the target.

In embodiments, interfering with voluntary locomotion may comprise electrically interfering with the locomotion of the target. For example, a CEW may be used to deliver a stimulus signal through tissue of a human or animal target. The stimulus signal may comprise a current, pulses of current, and/or pulses of a charge. Although typically referred to as a conducted electrical weapon, as described herein a “CEW” may refer to a conducted electrical weapon, a conducted energy weapon, an electronic control device, and/or another similar device or apparatus configured to provide a stimulus signal through one or more deployed projectiles. A projectile configured to deliver a stimulus signal to a target may comprise an electrode.

To cause electrical interference with locomotion, a stimulus signal carries a charge into target tissue. 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.). The stiffening of the muscles in response to a stimulus signal may be referred to as neuromuscular incapacitation (“NMI”). NMI disrupts voluntary control of the muscles of the target. The inability of the target to control its muscles interferes with locomotion of the target.

In some embodiments, 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, a drive stun, etc.). 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.

In embodiments, a CEW may be configured to interfere with a target at a remote location. Such an arrangement may enable a minimum distance to be maintained between a user of the CEW and the target. To cause interference at the remote location, the CEW may comprise a deployable projectile and a handle (e.g., launcher) from which the projectile is deployed. The projectile may comprise an electrically conductive projectile or electrode. Responsive to an activation signal received at the handle, the projectile may be launched toward a remote location. Upon electrical coupling of the projectile with a target at the remote location, a stimulus signal may be delivered to tissue of the target via the electrode to interfere with locomotion of the target.

In embodiments, a stimulus signal may be delivered through the target via launched projectiles. The two projectiles may enable different charges to be coupled to different locations on a body of a target. The two projectiles may enable different voltages to be applied to the target relative to a reference voltage. Responsive to a difference in electrical charge between the different voltages, the stimulus signal may be provided to the target. Delivery via the launched projectiles may be referred to as a remote delivery (e.g., a remote stun). During a remote delivery, the CEW may be separated from the target by distances such as 15 feet, 20 feet, 30 feet, 40 feet, or greater than 50 feet.

In some embodiments, a handle of a CEW may be coupled to one or more projectiles via at least one tether. As the projectiles travel toward a target, the at least one wire tether may be deployed behind the projectiles. The tether may comprise an electrical conductor. The tether may be electrically coupled to a signal generator in the handle. The tether may be further electrically coupled to the projectiles. The projectiles may electrically couple to the target thereby coupling the signal generator to the target. In response to the projectiles connecting with, impacting on, or being positioned proximate to the target's tissue, current of the stimulus signal may be provided through the target via the projectiles. For example, a circuit may be formed through a first tether and a first projectile, the target's tissue, and a second projectile and a second tether. In other embodiments, and as further discussed below, a tether may electrically couple two projectiles to provide a stimulus signal, separate from a handle of a CEW.

A stimulus signal provided by a CEW may comprise a series of electrical pulses. In some embodiments, 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 ionized air may provide an ionization path between the electrode or terminal and the target. In response to the electrode or terminal being electrically coupled to the target, the low voltage portion of the pulse delivers an amount of charge into the target's tissue via the ionization path. In response to the electrode or terminal being electrically coupled to the target by contact (e.g., touching, spear embedded into tissue, etc.), the high portion of the pulse and the low portion of the pulse both deliver charge to the target's tissue. Generally, the low voltage portion of the pulse delivers a majority of the charge of the pulse into the target's tissue. In various embodiments, 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.

In various embodiments, a signal generator of the CEW may provide the stimulus signal (e.g., current, pulses of current, etc.) at a low voltage. For example, the low voltage may comprise a voltage of less than 2000 volts. The low voltage stimulus signal may not ionize the air in the clothing or the air in the gap that separates the terminal or electrode from the target's tissue. A CEW having a signal generator providing stimulus signals at only a low voltage (e.g., a low voltage signal generator) may require deployed electrodes to be electrically coupled to the target by contact (e.g., touching, spear embedded into tissue, etc.). The stimulus signal at the low voltage may lack a high-voltage portion. In such embodiments, a low-voltage stimulus signal may comprise a series of electrical pulses wherein each pulse comprises a low voltage portion and lacks the high voltage portion disclosed above.

In embodiments, 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). Such a spacing enables current from the stimulus signal to flow through the at least 6 inches of a target's tissue. In various embodiments, the electrodes preferably should be spaced apart at least 12 inches (30.48 centimeters) on the target.

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 pulse may be delivered to a target via two or more electrodes. In response to the electrodes being appropriately spaced as discussed above, 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. In various embodiments, a CEW may be hand-held and use batteries to provide the pulses of the stimulus signal. In response to the amount of charge per pulse being high and the pulse rate being high, 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 a pulse being about 63 microcoulombs. Empirical testing has shown that a pulse rate of 22 pps and 63 microcoulombs per a pulse via a pair of electrodes will induce NMI when the electrode spacing is at least 12 inches (30.48 centimeters).

In various embodiments, a CEW may include a handle and one or more cartridges (e.g., deployment units, etc.). The handle may include one or more bays for receiving the cartridge(s). Each cartridge may be removably positioned in (e.g., inserted into, coupled to, etc.) a respective bay of the one or more bays. Each cartridge may releasably electrically, electronically, and/or mechanically couple to a bay. A deployment of the CEW may launch one or more projectiles from a cartridge of the one or more cartridges and toward a target.

In various embodiments, a cartridge may include one or more projectiles that are launched at a same time. In various embodiments, a cartridge may include a single projectile configured to be launched from the cartridge. In other embodiments, the cartridge may comprise two projectiles. Launching the projectile(s) may be referred to as activating (e.g., firing) a cartridge or projectile. After use (e.g., activation, firing), a cartridge may be removed from the bay and replaced with an unused (e.g., not fired, not activated) cartridge to permit launch of one or more additional projectiles.

In various embodiments, a CEW may comprise a magazine. The magazine may be releasably coupled to a handle of the CEW. The magazine may be received in a bay of the CEW. The magazine may comprise one or more openings (e.g., bays, bores, slots, chambers, etc.) in which a cartridge may be respectively disposed. The one or more openings of the magazine may be sized to receive a respective cartridge. A cartridge may be disposed in each of the opening(s) prior to deployment. After the respective cartridge is deployed, the cartridge may be replaced with an unused cartridge. Each opening of the magazine may be aligned with a respective electrical contact of the handle through which a respective electrical output signal may be applied to a cartridge disposed in the opening.

In some embodiments, a bay of a CEW may comprise an opening of a magazine. Instead of a cartridge being directly received in a fixed bay of a handle of a CEW, the opening of the magazine may receive the cartridge. In turn, the magazine may be removably coupled to the CEW. The magazine may couple the plurality of cartridges to the handle of the CEW at a same time. Along with the opening of the magazine, the bay may further comprise an electrical contact and/or other physical portion of a handle of the CEW disposed opposite an end of the opening from which a projectile may be deployed from the magazine when the magazine is coupled to the handle.

In embodiments, different manners of providing interference may be preferred for different incidents. For example, mechanical interference provided by an entanglement device may be useful for certain targets and incidents, while other types of interference may be useful for other targets and incidents. In certain situations, an entanglement device may provide insufficient interference with a target to prevent movement of the target. For example, an entanglement device may not wrap around a leg, legs, or other part of a body of a target such that movement of the part of the body is prevented. To interfere with locomotion of the target, an additional source of interference may be required.

Embodiments according to various aspects of the present disclosure both provide the benefits and address the deficiencies discussed above. Particularly, embodiments enable different types of interference via same device. The different types of interference may include mechanical interference and electrical interference. By using a same device, extra time, material, and/or accuracy otherwise necessary for delivering different types of interference to a target at a remote location may be avoided. For example, separate projectiles for separate types of interference may be avoided by embodiments according to various aspects of the present disclosure. By using a same device, the type(s) of interference provided to a remote location may be selectively applied responsive to changes in an incident or target.

In various embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 1, a CEW 100 is disclosed. CEW 100 may be similar to, or have similar aspects and/or components with, other CEW(s) discussed herein. CEW 100 may perform the functions of a conducted electrical weapon. CEW 100 may also perform the functions of entanglement device. CEW 100 may comprise a housing 105 and a magazine 134. It should be understood by one skilled in the art that FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of CEW 100, and one or more of the components of CEW 100 may be located in any suitable position within, or external to, housing 105. A system for providing different types of interference according to various aspects of the present disclosure may comprise one or more components of CEW 100.

In various embodiments, housing 105 may comprise various mechanical, electronic, and/or electrical components configured to aid in performing the functions of CEW 100. For example, housing 105 may comprise one or more control interfaces 140, processing circuits 110, power supplies 160, and/or signal generators 120. Housing 105 may include a guard 145. Guard 145 may define an opening formed in housing 105. Guard 145 may be located on a center region of housing 105 (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 1), and/or in any other suitable location on housing 10. Control interface 140 may be disposed within guard 145. Guard 145 may be configured to protect control interface 140 from unintentional physical contact (e.g., an unintentional activation of a trigger of control interface 140). Guard 145 may surround control interface 140 within housing 105. Housing 105 may extend from a grip end 112 of CEW 100 to a distal end 114 of CEW 100. Grip end 112 may be configured to be held in a hand of a user during operation of CEW 100. Distal end 114 may comprise a portion of housing 105 opposite grip end 112. Projectiles 130 may be deployed from distal end 114 during use of CEW 100. During use of CEW 100, distal end 114 may be aimed toward a target at a target location. Distal end 114 may be disposed closest to a remote location during use of CEW 100. In other embodiments, a housing of CEW 100 may comprise other shapes, including those that lack a grip end and/or are configured to be mounted to a stationary or moveable platform. For such embodiments, the moveable platform may comprise an unmanned aerial vehicle and/or a remote-controlled vehicle.

In various embodiments, control interface 140 may include a user control interface. A user control interface may be configured to be manually actuated by a user of CEW 100. A user control interface may include a trigger. A user control interface may be coupled to an outer surface of housing 105. A user control interface may be configured to move, slide, rotate, or otherwise become physically depressed or moved upon application of physical contact. For example, control interface 140 may be actuated by physical contact applied to control interface 140 from within guard 145. Control interface 140 may comprise a mechanical or electromechanical switch, button, trigger, or other actuatable component. For example, control interface 140 may comprise a switch, a pushbutton, and/or trigger. Control interface 140 may be mechanically and/or electronically coupled to processing circuit 110. In response to control interface 140 being actuated (e.g., depressed, pushed, etc. by the user), processing circuit 110 may enable deployment of one or more deployment units 136 from CEW 100 as discussed further herein.

In various embodiments, power supply 160 may be configured to provide power to various components of CEW 100. For example, power supply 160 may provide energy for operating the electronic and/or electrical components (e.g., parts, subsystems, circuits, etc.) of CEW 100 and/or one or more deployment units 136. Power supply 160 may provide electrical power. Providing electrical power may include providing a current at a voltage. Power supply 160 may be electrically coupled to processing circuit 110 and/or signal generator 120. In various embodiments, in response to control interface 140 comprising electronic properties and/or components, power supply 160 may be electrically coupled to control interface 140. In various embodiments, in response to selector circuit 150 comprising electronic properties or components, power supply 160 may be electrically coupled to selector circuit 150. Electrical power from power supply 160 may be provided as a direct current (“DC”) and/or an alternating current (“AC”). Power supply 160 may include a battery. The energy of power supply 160 may be renewable or exhaustible, and/or replaceable. For example, power supply 160 may comprise one or more rechargeable or disposable batteries. In various embodiments, the energy from power supply 160 may be converted from one form (e.g., electrical, magnetic, thermal) to another form to perform the functions of a system.

Power supply 160 may provide energy for performing the functions of CEW 100. For example, power supply 160 may provide the electrical current to signal generator 120 that is provided through a target to impede locomotion of the target (e.g., via one or more deployment units 136). Power supply 160 may provide the energy for a stimulus signal. Power supply 160 may provide the energy for other signals, including an ignition signal and/or an activation signal, as discussed further herein.

In various embodiments, processing circuit 110 may comprise circuitry, electrical components, electronic components, and/or the like configured to perform various operations and functions discussed herein. For example, processing circuit 110 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 a combination thereof. In various embodiments, processing circuit 110 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.). In various embodiments, processing circuit 110 may include data buses, output ports, input ports, timers, memory, arithmetic units, counters, and/or the like.

Processing circuit 110 may be configured to provide and/or receive electrical signals whether digital and/or analog in form. Processing circuit 110 may provide and/or receive digital information via a data bus using one or more protocols. Processing circuit 110 may receive information, manipulate the received information, and provide the manipulated information. Processing circuit 110 may store information and retrieve stored information. Information received, stored, and/or manipulated by processing circuit 110 may be used to perform a function, control a function, and/or to perform an operation or execute a stored program. For example, processing circuit 110 may receive an activation signal from control interface 140 and perform one or more operations based on the activation signal. Processing circuit 110 may comprise a clock (e.g., clock circuit, circuity configured to perform operations of a clock, etc.) and perform one or more operations based on a sequence of current times provided via the clock. In embodiments, the clock may comprise one or more of a timer circuit and a counter circuit configured to generate an output signal representing a sequence of current times from which a period or duration of time may be determined by processing circuit 110. The clock may enable an amount of time that has passed since a previous operation was performed (e.g., elapsed time) to be identified by processing circuit 110.

Processing circuit 110 may control the operation and/or function of other circuits and/or components of CEW 100. Processing circuit 110 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 110 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 110 and other circuits and/or components via any type of bus (e.g., SPI bus) including any type of data/address bus.

In various embodiments, processing circuit 110 may be mechanically and/or electronically coupled to control interface 140. Processing circuit 110 may be configured to detect an activation, actuation, depression, input, etc. (collectively, an “activation event”) at control interface 140. In response to detecting the actuation event, processing circuit 110 may be configured to perform various operations and/or functions, as discussed further herein. Processing circuit 110 may also include a sensor (e.g., a trigger sensor) attached to control interface 140 and configured to detect an activation event of control interface 140. The sensor may comprise a mechanical and/or electronic sensor capable of detecting an activation event at control interface 140 and reporting the activation event to processing circuit 110.

In various embodiments, processing circuit 110 may be mechanically and/or electronically coupled to control interface 140 to receive an activation signal. The activation signal may include one or more of a mechanical and/or electrical signal. For example, the activation signal may include a mechanical signal received by control interface 140 and detected by processing circuit 110 as an activation event. Alternately or additionally, the activation signal may include an electrical signal received by processing circuit 110 from a sensor associated with control interface 140, wherein the sensor may detect an activation event of control interface 140 and provide the electrical signal to processing circuit 110. In embodiments, control interface 140 may generate an electrical signal in accordance with an activation event of control interface 140 and provide the electrical signal to processing circuit 110 as an activation signal.

In embodiments, processing circuit 110 may receive the activation signal from a different electrical circuit or device. For example, the activation signal may be received via a wireless communication circuit. The activation signal may be received from a different electrical circuit or device separate from processing circuit 110 and CEW 100. The activation signal may be received from a different electrical circuit or device external and in communication with processing circuit 110 and CEW 100. For example, the activation signal may be received from a remote-control device in wireless communication with CEW 100 and processing circuit 110 of CEW 100.

In various embodiments, control interface 140 may be repeatedly actuated to provide a plurality of activation signals. For example, a trigger may be depressed multiple times to provide a plurality of activation events of the trigger, wherein an activation signal is detected, received, or otherwise determined by processing circuit 110 each time the trigger is depressed. Each activation signal of the plurality of activation signals may be separately received by CEW 100 via control interface 140.

In various embodiments, control interface 140 may be actuated multiple times over a period of time to provide a sequence of activation signals. Each activation signal of the sequence may be received at a different, discrete time during the period of time. For example, a trigger of CEW 100 may be actuated at a first time during a period of time to provide a first activation signal. The trigger may be actuated again at a second time during the period of time to provide a second activation signal. A sequence of activation signals comprising the first activation signal and the second activation signal may be received by CEW 100 via the trigger during the period of time. CEW 100 may receive the sequence of activation signals via control interface 140 and perform at least one function in response to each activation signal of the sequence.

In embodiments, control interface 140 may be actuated for a duration of time to provide an activation signal for the duration of time. The activation signal may be provided to processing circuit 110 during the duration of time. For example, control interface 140 may be actuated (e.g., depressed) to initiate an activation at a first time and the control interface 140 may continue to be actuated during the duration of time until a second time. Processing circuit 110 may detect the activation signal at the first time in accordance with the actuation of control interface 140. Processing circuit 110 may also detect an end to the activation signal at the second time in accordance with the de-actuation (e.g., release) of control interface 140. During the duration of time, processing circuit 110 may continuously receive the activation signal from control interface 140. During the duration of time, processing circuit 110 may periodically detect the activation signal to confirm that the activation signal continues to be provided during the duration of time. During the duration of time, processing circuit 110 may continuously check (e.g., measure, sample, etc.) a signal received via an electrical connection with control interface 140 to confirm that the signal is consistently received during the duration of time. At the second time, processing circuit 110 may detect the activation signal is no longer received via control interface 140. While the activation signal is received via control interface 140, CEW 100 may be configured to perform at least one function in accordance with receiving and continuing to receive the activation signal for the duration of time. When a first activation signal ends (e.g., is terminated, is no longer detected, is no longer received., etc.) the at least one function may end as well. When a second activation signal is received after the first activation signal, another set of one or more operations may be performed in accordance with receiving the second activation for a second duration of time, different from the first activation signal and a first period of time during which the first activation signal was received. In alternate or additional embodiments, CEW 100 may be configured to automatically perform a plurality of operations, including deploying one or more next projectiles, independent of whether an activation signal continues to be received after CEW 100 deploys a first projectile responsive to initially receiving the activation signal.

In various embodiments, control interface 140 may further comprise one or more user control interfaces. A user control interface may be configured to receive an input from a user of CEW 100 and/or transmit an output to the user of CEW 100. A user control interface may be located in a suitable location on or in housing 105. For example, a user control interface may be coupled to an outer surface of housing 105 or extend at least partially through the outer surface of housing 105. A user control interface may be electrically, mechanically, and/or electronically coupled to processing circuit 110. In various embodiments, in response to a user control interface comprising electronic or electrical properties or components, a user control interface may be electrically coupled to power supply 160. A user control interface may receive power (e.g., electrical current) from power supply 160 to power the electronic properties or components.

In various embodiments, a user control interface of control interface 140 may comprise one or more components configured to receive an input from a user. For example, a user control interface may comprise an audio capturing module (e.g., microphone) configured to receive an audio input. Alternately or additionally, a user control interface may comprise a visual display (e.g., touchscreen, LCD, LED, etc.) configured to receive a manual input. Alternately or additionally, a user control interface may comprise a mechanical interface (e.g., button, switch, etc.) configured to receive a manual input. In various embodiments, a user control interface may comprise one or more components configured to transmit or produce an output. For example, a user control interface may comprise one or more of an audio output module (e.g., audio speaker) configured to output audio, a light-emitting component (e.g., flashlight, laser guide, etc.) configured to output light, a visual display (e.g., touchscreen, LCD, LED, etc.) configured to output a visual, and/or the like.

In various embodiments, processing circuit 110 may be electrically and/or electronically coupled to power supply 160. Processing circuit 110 may receive power from power supply 160. The power received from power supply 160 may be used by processing circuit 110 to receive signals, process signals, and transmit signals to various other components in CEW 100. Processing circuit 110 may use power from power supply 160 to detect an activation event of control interface 140 and generate one or more control signals in response to the detected activation event. The control signal may be based on actuation of control interface 140. The control signal may be an electrical signal.

In various embodiments, processing circuit 110 may be electrically and/or electronically coupled to signal generator 120. Processing circuit 110 may be configured to transmit or provide control signals to signal generator 120 in response to detecting an actuation of control interface 140 (e.g., a trigger of control interface 140). Processing circuit 110 may be configured to transmit or provide control signals to signal generator 120 in response to receiving an activation signal. Multiple control signals may be provided from processing circuit 110 to signal generator 120 in series. In response to receiving the control signal, signal generator 120 may be configured to perform various functions and/or operations, as discussed further herein.

In various embodiments, and with reference again to FIG. 1, signal generator 120 may be configured to receive one or more control signals from processing circuit 110. Signal generator 120 may be configured to perform one or more operations in accordance with different control signals. For example, the one or more operations may include generating an electrical signal and/or adjusting the electrical signal. In some embodiments, the electrical signal may include an ignition signal generated responsive to a first control signal or a stimulus signal generated responsive to a second control signal different from the first control signal. Signal generator 120 may provide an ignition signal to one or more deployment units 136 based on the control signals. Signal generator 120 may provide a stimulus signal to one or more deployment units 136 based on the control signals. Signal generator 120 may be electrically and/or electronically coupled to processing circuit 110 and/or deployment units 136. Signal generator 120 may be electrically coupled to power supply 160.

In embodiments, signal generator 120 may generate an ignition signal. The ignition signal may be provided to a deployment unit. Responsive to the ignition signal, a projectile may be deployed (e.g., ejected, launched, etc.) from the deployment unit. Signal generator 120 may use power received from power supply 160 to generate the ignition signal. For example, signal generator 120 may receive an electrical signal from power supply 160 that has first current and voltage values. Signal generator 120 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 120 may temporarily store power from power supply 160 and rely on the stored power entirely or in part to provide the ignition signal. Signal generator 120 may also rely on received power from power supply 160 entirely or in part to provide the ignition signal, without needing to temporarily store power.

In embodiments, signal generator 120 may generate a stimulus signal. The stimulus signal may be delivered through tissue of a target to cause NMI as discussed above. Signal generator 120 may use power received from power supply 160 to generate a stimulus signal. Signal generator 120 may transform an electrical signal provide from power supply 160 to provide the stimulus signal. Signal generator 120 may comprise one or more capacitances and/or transformers configured to increase a voltage of the electrical signal received from power supply 160. Each of an ignition signal and a stimulus signal may be provided as an output signal from signal generator 120. In embodiments, the ignition signal and the stimulus signal may be provided responsive to same or different control signals from processing circuit 110.

Signal generator 120 may be controlled entirely or in part by processing circuit 110. In various embodiments, signal generator 120 and processing circuit 110 may be separate components (e.g., physically distinct and/or logically discrete). In other embodiments, signal generator 120 and processing circuit 110 may be a single component. For example, a control circuit within housing 105 may at least include signal generator 120 and processing circuit 110. 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.

In embodiments, signal generator 120 may be controlled by the control signals to generate an ignition signal having a predetermined current value or values. For example, signal generator 120 may include a current source. The control signal may be received by signal generator 120 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. For example, signal generator 120 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 120 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 120 may alternatively or additionally be employed, including those that apply a voltage over one or more different resistances to generate signals with different currents. In various embodiments, signal generator 120 may include a high-voltage module configured to deliver an electrical current having a high voltage. In various embodiments, signal generator 120 may include a low-voltage module configured to deliver an electrical current having a lower voltage. The lower voltage may comprise a voltage equal or less than 2,000 volts.

Responsive to receipt of a signal indicating actuation of control interface 140 (e.g., an activation event), a control circuit provides an ignition signal to one or more deployment units 136. For example, signal generator 120 may provide an electrical signal as an ignition signal to first deployment unit 136-1 in response to receiving a control signal from processing circuit 110. In various embodiments, the ignition signal may be separate and distinct from a stimulus signal. For example, a stimulus signal in CEW 100 may be provided to a different circuit within first deployment unit 136-1, relative to a circuit to which an ignition signal is provided. Signal generator 120 may be configured to generate a stimulus signal. In various embodiments, a second, separate signal generator, component, or circuit (not shown) within housing 105 may be configured to generate the stimulus signal. Signal generator 120 may also provide a ground signal path for deployment units 136, thereby completing a circuit for an ignition signal provided to deployment units 136 by signal generator 120. The ground signal path may also be provided to deployment units 136 by other elements in housing 105, including power supply 160.

In embodiments, signal generator 120 may generate an electrical signal comprising at least two output signals 122. The at least two output signals 122 may include at least two different voltages, wherein each different voltage of the at least two different voltages is determined relative to a common reference voltage. The at least two signals may include first output signal 122-1 and second output signal 122-2. The first output signal 122-1 may have a first voltage. The second output signal 122-2 may have a second voltage. The first voltage may be different from the second voltage relative to a common reference voltage. The common reference voltage may include, for example, ground, the first voltage, and/or the second voltage. In some embodiments, either first output signal 122-1 or second output signal 122-2 may be equal to the reference voltage. In other embodiments, both first output signal 122-1 and second output signal 122-2 may be different from the reference voltage. The first output signal 122-1 may comprise a first electric charge. The second output signal 122-2 may comprise a second electric charge different from the first electric charge of the first output signal 122-1. A stimulus signal may be generated in accordance with a difference in voltage and/or electric charge between first output signal 122-1 and second output signal 122-2. The first output signal 122-1 may comprise a first electric potential. The second output signal 122-2 may comprise a second electric potential different from the first electric potential. In some embodiments, one of first output signal 122-1 and second output signal 122-2 may be positive and the other of second output signal 122-2 and first output signal 122-1 may be negative. In some embodiments, an ignition signal generated by signal generator 120 may comprise at least one of first output signal 122-1 and second output signal 122-2.

In embodiments, a selector circuit may selectively couple one or more output signals from a signal generator to one or more deployment units. Selector circuit may receive one or more control signals from a processing circuit. Responsive to the one or more control signals, selector circuit may selectively couple the one or more output signals to the one or more deployment units. For example, selector circuit 150 may couple the first output signal 122-1 and the second output signal 122-2 to different deployment units of deployment units 136. Selector circuit 150 may couple the outputs signals 122 via a conductive interface (not shown) between a handle of CEW 100 and deployment units 136. Selector circuit 150 may be configured to selectively couple output signals 122 to deployment units 136 in accordance with one or more control signals received by selector circuit 150 from processing circuit 110. For example, selector circuit 150 may comprise one or more switches that, in response to one or more controls from processing circuit 110, selectively couple one or more output signals 122 to one or more respective deployment units 136. The at least two output signals 122 may be coupled to separate, respective electrical signal paths within CEW 100. The at least two output signals 122 may be further provided to a remote location via separate, respective electrical signal paths between CEW 100 and the remote location. Coupling of the at least two electrical signals 122 through a load at the remote location may enable an electrical signal to be delivered at the remote location, wherein the electrical signal comprises a current determined in accordance with at least two different voltages of the at least two output signals 122 and a resistance of the load. For example, a stimulus signal may be provided at a remote location in accordance with a first voltage of first output signal 122-1, a second voltage of second output signal 122-1, and a load at the remote location, wherein an amount of current of the stimulus signal is determined in accordance with a resistance of the load and a voltage difference between the first voltage and the second voltage.

In various embodiments, a deployment unit may comprise a housing configured to receive one or more components. The housing may be configured to receive the one or more components prior to at least one of the components being launched from the deployment unit. The housing may comprise an electrical interface that enables one or more electrical signals to be coupled to the components. For example, deployment units 136 may comprise propulsion modules 132 and projectiles 130. Each projectile of projectiles 130 may be physically disposed in a respective deployment unit of deployment units 136 prior to being launched from the respective deployment unit. In some embodiments, each projectile of projectiles 130 may be electrically coupled to other components of CEW 100 via the housing of a respective deployment unit of deployment units 136 prior to launch of the projectile. Each projectile may be electrically coupled to other components of CEW 100 via the housing before and after launch of the projectile from the respective deployment unit.

Each deployment unit of deployment units 136 may comprise a separate propulsion module and projectile. For example, first deployment unit 136-1 may comprise first projectile 130-1 and first propulsion module 132-1; second deployment unit 136-2 may comprise second projectile 130-2 and second propulsion module 132-2; and/or third deployment unit 136-3 may comprise third projectile 130-3 and third propulsion module 132-3. Providing a signal to a projectile may comprise providing the signal to the deployment unit in which the projectile is disposed prior to being deployed. For example, providing an ignition signal or stimulus signal to first projectile 130-1 may comprise providing an output signal of output signals to a housing of first deployment unit 136-1. The signal may be further provided to the projectile via the deployment unit. For example, an ignition signal may be provided to a projectile via a propulsion module, which may transform an electrical signal of the ignition signal to a mechanical signal (e.g., force) of the ignition signal. The mechanical signal may cause the projectile to be deployed from a deployment unit in which the electrode and the propulsion module are included. As another example, a stimulus signal may be electrically coupled via a housing of the deployment unit to the projectile, including after the projectile has been deployed from the deployment unit.

In embodiments, a projectile of projectiles 130 may comprise an entangling projectile. The entangling projectile may be configured to be deployed toward a target at a remote location. The entangling projectile may be configured to wrap around (e.g., entangle, envelop, encircle) the portion of the body of the target. In some embodiments, the entangling projectile may comprise two weights (e.g., weighted elements) and at least one tether. The at least one tether may interconnect the two weights. Upon deployment, the two weights may be launched such that a spacing is provided between the weights. The two weights may be launched toward opposite sides of a portion of a target (e.g., a portion of a body of a target). Upon reaching the target, the at least one tether may first contact the portion of the target. At a time of the first contact, the two weights may remain separated from the target. The two weights may continue to project (fly, sail, careen) beside and beyond the portion of the target at the time of first contact. After the at least one tether contacts the portion of the target, the interconnection of the at least one tether to each of the weights may cause each of the two weights to rotate around the target. The rotation may wrap the tether around the portion of the target until each weight physically contacts the target. Accordingly, the at least one tether may entangle the portion of the target, preventing movement of the portion of the target. The movement may be prevented beyond a circumference established by the wrapped at least one tether. In embodiments, other manners of coupling an entangling projectile to a target may be provided, including those in which one weight and/or the one weight and the at least one tether contact the portion of the target prior to another weight of the entangling projectile.

In some embodiments, a weight of an entangling projectile may comprise at least one barb. The at least one barb may be configured to removably couple the weight to target. The at least one barb may pierce clothing worn by the target at the portion of the target. The at least one barb may extend from the weight. In some embodiments, each barb of the at least one barb may respectively extend from the weight in a direction perpendicular to a direction from which the at least one tether extends from the weight. The at least one barb may comprise at least three barbs, at least four barbs, or four or more barbs.

In embodiments, a conductive electrical weapon may comprise at least one entangling projectile. The conductive electrical weapon may comprise two or more entangling projectiles. For example, first projectile 130-1 may comprise a first entangling projectile and second projectile 130-2 may comprise a second entangling projectile.

In some embodiments, the entangling projectile may be electrically conductive. The entangling projectile may comprise one or more conductive materials configured to electrically couple an electrical signal to a target. The one or more conductive materials may be disposed on one or more surfaces of the entangling projectile. For example, the at least one tether may comprise an electrically conductive material operable to couple an electrical signal from the at least one tether to a portion of the target to which the at least one tether may be coupled. In some embodiments, the at least one tether may comprise an electrically conductive filament. Alternately or additionally, at least one surface of each of one or more weights of the entangling projectile may comprise an electrically conductive material. In accordance with being electrically conductive, the entangling projectile may couple a stimulus signal from a signal generator to a target. For example, first projectile 130-1 may comprise an electrically conductive entangling projectile selectively coupled by selector circuit 150 to signal generator 120 to receive a stimulus signal from signal generator 120.

In some embodiments, an electrically conductive entangling projectile may comprise a at least two tethers. A first tether of the at least two tethers may interconnect the at least two weights of the entangling projectile as discussed above. A second tether may interconnect a handle of a conducted electrical weapon to other components of the entangling projectile. The second tether may be electrically conductive. The second tether may couple to a housing of a deployment unit from which the entangling projectile was deployed. The second tether may couple a stimulus signal from the handle of the conducted electrical weapon to the other components of the entangling projectile. For example, a second tether of first projectile 130-1 may couple a stimulus signal from selector circuit 150 to a first weight of first projectile 130-1. The second tether may be coupled to one or more of a first weight, a second weight, or a first tether of the entangling projectile. In other embodiments, an electrically conductive entangling projectile may be wireless. The wireless entangling projectile may lack a tether between the projectile and a handle of a conducted electrical weapon, including as further discussed below.

In some embodiments, a projectile of projectiles 130 may comprise a direct contact projectile. The direct contact projectile may comprise a single weighted portion. The single weighted portion may comprise an electrode. The direct contact projectile may comprise an electrode and a tether. The direct contact projectile may be configured to be launched directly toward a portion of a target. The direct contact projectile may be configured to mechanically couple to the portion of the target. An electrode of the direct contact projectile may be configured to impact the portion of the target. The direct contact projectile may be configured to remain coupled to a location on the target to which it first impacts. The direct contact projectile may comprise a non-entangling projectile. The direct contact projectile may be configured to impact the target after being deployed. For example, an electrode of a direct contact projectile may be configured to impact a target at a remote location after being deployed. The electrode may be configured to impact the target prior to a tether of the direct contact projectile. In contrast with an entangling projectile in which a tether of the entangling projectile may be arranged to contact a target first, an electrode of a direct contact projectile may be configured to contact the target first. Alternately or additionally, the tether of a direct contact projectile may be deployed behind an electrode. In contrast, a tether of an entangling projectile may be deployed between two weights of the entangling projectile as the entangling projectile travels toward a remote location. A tether of an entangling projectile may be deployed at least partially laterally relative to a weight of the entangling projectile, unlike a tether deployed behind a single weighted portion or electrode of a direct contact projectile.

In some embodiments, the one or more tethers of an entangling projectile may be coupled to at least two weighted portions of the projectile (e.g., bodies, weighted bodies, etc.), while the one or more tethers of a direct contact projectile may be coupled to a single weighted portion of the projectile. The one or more tethers of a direct contact projectile may further comprise a single tether.

In embodiments, a conducted electrical weapon may comprise at least one direct contact projectile. For example, third projectile 130-3 may comprise a direct contact projectile. In embodiments, an electrode of a direct contact projectile may comprise a spear. The spear may extend from a surface of the electrode opposite another surface by which the tether is coupled to electrode. The spear may retain the electrode on a surface of the target upon impact of the electrode with the surface. The spear may removably couple the electrode to the target.

In embodiments, a direct contact projectile may comprise an electrically conductive projectile. The electrically conductive projectile may be configured to provide an electrical signal to a target. The electrically conductive projectile may comprise one or more electrically conductive materials arranged to deliver a stimulus signal to a target. The one or more conductive materials may be disposed on one or more surfaces of the direct contact projectile. For example, a tether of a direct contact projectile may comprise an electrically conductive material operable to couple an electrical signal from the tether to a portion of the target to which the tether may be coupled. In some embodiments, the tether may comprise an electrically conductive filament. The tether may comprise an insulated or non-insulated filament. Alternately or additionally, at least one surface of an electrode of a direct contact projectile may comprise an electrically conductive material. A spear of an electrode may alternately or additionally be electrically conductive. In accordance with one or more of its portions being electrically conductive, the direct contact projectile may couple a stimulus signal from a signal generator to a target. For example, third projectile 130-3 may comprise an electrically conductive direct contact projectile selectively coupled by selector circuit 150 to signal generator 120 to receive a stimulus signal from signal generator 120.

In various embodiments, each projectile of projectiles 130 may be configured to provide at least one conductive signal path between CEW 100 and a remote location upon deployment. In some embodiments, the at least one conductive signal path may comprise a single conductive signal path. For example, each projectile of the projectile s 130 may comprise a single electrical conductor. Further, each projectile of the projectile s 130 may be coupled to CEW 100 via a respective filament. Each filament may further comprise a single conductor. Accordingly, in various embodiments, each projectile of projectiles 130 may be selectively coupled to one of first output signal 122-1 and second output signal 122-2 at a time. For example, at a given time, first projectile 130-1 may be coupled to either first output signal 122-1 or second output signal 122-2; second projectile 130-2 may be coupled to either first output signal 122-1 or second output signal 122-2; and third projectile 130-3 may be coupled to either first output signal 122-1 or second output signal 122-2. In various embodiments, each projectile of projectiles 130 may either be coupled to a first voltage of first output signal 122-1 or a second voltage of second output signal 122-2 at the given time. In embodiments, at least one projectile of projectiles 130 may be decoupled from signal generator 120. For example, at a given time, first projectile 130-1 may be coupled to one of first output signal 122-1 and second output signal 122-2; second projectile 130-2 may be coupled to another of first output signal 122-1 and second output signal 122-2 different from first projectile 130-1; and third projectile 130-3 may be decoupled from both first output signal 122-1 and second output signal 122-2. As noted above, remote delivery of a current, including a current of a stimulus signal, may be determined in accordance with two different voltages provided at a remote location according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

Magazine 134 may be releasably engaged with housing 105. Magazine 134 may include a plurality of openings, where each opening of the openings is configured to receive one deployment unit of deployment units 136. In embodiments, the openings may comprise one or more firing tubes. Magazine 134 may be configured to launch projectiles 130 housed in deployment units 136 installed in each of the plurality of openings of magazine 134. Magazine 134 may be configured to receive a suitable or desired number of deployment units 136. For example, magazine 134 may comprise a respective opening for each of one deployment unit, two deployment units, three deployment units, six deployment units, nine deployment units, or ten deployment units in embodiments according to various aspects of the present disclosure. In other embodiments, a magazine may be omitted and a housing such as housing 105 of CEW 100 may comprise one or more fixed bays in which the one or more deployment units 136 may each be received.

In various embodiments, propulsion modules 132 may be coupled to, or in communication with respective projectiles in deployment units 136. Propulsion modules 132 may comprise any device, such as propellant (e.g., air, gas, etc.), primer, or the like capable of providing propulsion forces in deployment units 136. The propulsion force may include an increase in pressure caused by rapidly expanding gas within an area or chamber. A propulsion force from each of propulsion modules 132 may be applied to respective projectiles 130 in deployment units 136 to cause the deployment of projectiles 130. Propulsion modules 132 may provide the respective propulsion forces in response to respective deployment units 136 receiving one or more respective ignition signals. Accordingly, projectiles 130 in different deployment units 136 may be deployed at different times in accordance with a sequence of ignition signals provided to different deployment units of deployment units 136.

In various embodiments, a propulsion force may be directly applied to a projectile. For example, a first propulsion force may be provided directly to first projectile 130-1 via first propulsion module 132-1. First propulsion module 132-1 may be in fluid communication with first projectile 130-1 to provide the propulsion force. For example, the propulsion force from first propulsion module 132-1 may travel within a housing or channel of first deployment unit 136-1 to first projectile 130-1. In other embodiments, a propulsion force may be indirectly provided to a projectile. For example, a propulsion module may comprise a piston, wad, or other intermediate component physically disposed between a primer or other propellant, wherein the propulsion force is coupled to the projectile via the intermediate component.

In various embodiments, each projectile of deployment units 136 may comprise a projectile configured to physically couple to a target. For example, each projectile of projectiles 130 may include a barb or spear, designed to pierce or otherwise attach proximate a tissue of a target. The barb or spear may provide a conductive electrical path between a weight or an electrode of the projectile and a tissue of the target.

In embodiments, a conducted electrical weapon may comprise multiple deployment units. The multiple deployment units may be received by a handle of the conducted electrical weapon at a same time. Each deployment unit of the deployment units may comprise a same or different type of projectile relative to another of the multiple deployment units. For example, CEW 100 may comprise multiple deployment units 136. First deployment unit 136-1 of deployment units 136 may include first projectile 130-1, second deployment unit 136-2 of deployment units 136 may include second projectile 130-2, and third deployment unit 136-3 of deployment units 136 may include third projectile 130-3. First projectile 130-1 may comprise a first entangling projectile and second projectile 130-2 may comprise a second entangling projectile. Third projectile 130-3 may comprise a direct contact projectile, different from each of the first entangling projectile and the second entangling projectile. Projectiles 130 may be deployed from deployment units 136 in series over time. In embodiments, a single projectile (e.g., first projectile 130-1 or second projectile 130-2 or third projectile 130-3) may be launched in response to a single ignition signal as further discussed herein.

In embodiments, CEW 100 may perform functions of an entanglement device in accordance with receiving a deployment unit that includes an entangling projectile. For example, CEW 100 may perform functions of an entanglement device in accordance with receiving first deployment unit 136-1. The functions may further comprise providing an ignition signal to first propulsion module 132-1 to cause first projectile 130-1 to be deployed.

A communication circuit transmits and/or receives information (e.g., data). A communication circuit may transmit and/or receive (e.g., communicate) information via a wireless link and/or a wired connection. A communication circuit may communicate using wireless (e.g., radio, light, sound, vibrations) and/or wired (e.g., electrical, optical) mediums. A communication circuit may communicate using a wireless (e.g., Bluetooth, Zigbee, WAP, WiFi, NFC, IrDA) and/or wired (e.g., USB, RS-232, Firewire, Ethernet) communication protocols. The wireless protocols may include a short-range wireless communication protocol. A communication circuit may receive information from a processing circuit for transmission. A communication circuit may provide received information to a processing circuit.

A communication circuit in one device (e.g., CEW handle) may communicate with a communication circuit in another device (e.g., smart phone, tablet, projectile). Communications between two devices may permit the two devices to cooperate in performing a function of either device.

A communication circuit enables a CEW to communicate with an electronic device (e.g., smart phone, tablet computer, laptop computer). The communication between the CEW and an electronic device may be wired (e.g., Ethernet, USB, RS-232). The communication between the CEW and an electronic device may be wireless (e.g., Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (“BLE”), WiFi, Zigbee, Near Field Communications (“NFC”). LTE). Information transferred between the CEW and an electronic device may be encrypted (e.g., encoded, enciphered).

The electronic device may exchange (e.g., receive and/or transmit) information with the CEW. The information provided by the CEW may include usage history (e.g., logs), deployment dates and times, device information (e.g., manufacturer, serial number, software version, power supply type), deployment units (e.g., serial numbers) fired, reports, status (e.g., operational state, safety on/off, amount of energy (e.g., charge, current, voltage) used or remaining in the power supply), and configuration information. Information provided to the CEW may provide commands (e.g., instructions), configuration information, and software updates.

In embodiments, CEW 100 may comprise communication circuit 170. Communication circuit 170 may be disposed in a handle or handle portion of CEW 100 defined by housing 105. Communication circuit 170 may be configured to transmit and/or receive information from another device, separate from CEW 100. For example, communication circuit 170 may transmit an activation signal from processing circuit 110 to a deployed projectile. Alternately or additionally, communication circuit 170 may transmit information associated with deployment of a projectile to a computing device. Alternately or additionally, communication circuit 170 may receive information from a deployed projectile.

In embodiments, a conducted electrical weapon configured to provide different types of interference is provided. The different types of interference may be provided sequentially. In some embodiments, the different types of interference may be provided in accordance with different projectiles. For example, and with brief reference to FIGS. 2A-D, a CEW 200 configured to provide different types of interference is provided. In some embodiments, CEW 200 may provide the different types of interference sequentially and/or in accordance with different types of projectiles. CEW 200 may comprise one or more other conducted electrical weapons disclosed herein, including CEW 100 with brief reference to FIG. 1. In various embodiments, CEW 200 may comprise one or more of processing circuit 210, a signal generator 220, control interface 240, a selector circuit 250, one or more projectiles 230, and a communication circuit 270. The one or more projectiles 230 may be deployed toward remote location 260. In embodiments, remote location 260 may comprise a target located at a physical position of remote location 260. Remote location 260 may comprise a target location. The target may be physically positioned at the target location. The one or more projectiles 230 may respectively entangle or directly contact the target at remote location 260. The one or more projectiles 230 may provide a stimulus signal to the target at remote location 260. A system for providing different types of interference according to various aspects of the present disclosure may comprise one or more components of CEW 200.

In embodiments, processing circuit 210 may be configured to control operations of CEW 200. Processing circuit 210 may perform operations of other processing circuits disclosed here, including processing circuit 110 with brief reference to FIG. 1. The operations performed by processing circuit 210 may comprise receiving an input signal. The input signal may comprise an activation signal. The operations performed by processing circuit 210 may comprise providing an output signal. For example, the output signal may comprise a control signal. In embodiments, the control signal may be provided to a signal generator, a selector circuit, a deployment comprising a projectile, and/or a communication circuit.

In embodiments, signal generator 220 may be configured to provide one or more signals for a deployment unit. Signal generator 220 may perform operations of other signal generators disclosed here, including signal generator 120 with brief reference to FIG. 1. Signal generator 220 may receive a control signal. For example, signal generator 220 may receive a control signal from processing circuit 210. Responsive to the control signal, signal generator 220 may generate one or more output signals for one or more deployment units. The one or more output signals may provide a stimulus signal. For example, a stimulus signal may comprise each output signal of two or more output signals generated by signal generator 220. A first output signal of the two or more output signals may comprise a positive electric potential. A second output signal of the two or more output signals may comprise a negative electric potential. At least two of the two or more output signals may have opposite potentials. A stimulus signal may be provided in accordance with the difference in electric potentials of two output signals of the two or more output signals generated by signal generator 220. In other embodiments (not shown), an ignition signal may also be generated by signal generator or, alternately, generated by a processing circuit. A stimulus signal generated by signal generator 220 may be provided to a selector circuit. For example, such a signal may be provided to selector circuit 250. In other embodiments (not shown), such a signal may be directly provided to one or more deployment units.

In embodiments, signal generator 220 may be selectively controlled to prevent generation of a stimulus signal. Signal generator 220 configured to not provide a stimulus signal responsive to a control signal. Generating a stimulus signal may be disabled for signal generator 220 responsive to the control signal. In other embodiments, signal generator 220 may disable generation of a stimulus signal responsive to a control signal not being received. Signal generator 220 may be configured to not generate a stimulus signal in accordance with an absence of a control signal. In accordance with the stimulus signal not being generated, a stimulus signal may not be provided to a deployment unit.

In embodiments, selector circuit 250 may be configured to selectively couple one or more output signals to one or more respective deployment units. Selector circuit 250 may perform operations of other selector circuits disclosed here, including selector circuit 150 with brief reference to FIG. 1. Selector circuit 250 may couple one or more output signals generated by signal generator 220 to one or more deployment units. For example, selector circuit 250 may couple a first output signal comprising a positive electric potential from signal generator 220 to a first projectile of projectiles 230 and a second output signal comprising a negative electric potential from signal generator 220 to a second projectile of projectiles 230. Selector circuit 250 may receive a control signal from a processing circuit. The control signal may indicate one or more deployment units to which a signal from a signal generator should be provided. For example, a control signal received by selector circuit 250 from processing circuit 210 may indicate one or more deployment units to which a stimulus signal received from signal generator 220 should be provided.

In embodiments, selector circuit 250 may be configured to not couple a stimulus signal to a deployment unit in accordance with a control signal. For example, and with brief reference to FIG. 2A, selector circuit 250 may provide an open circuit (e.g., open electrical signal path) between signal generator 220 and deployment units associated with one or more projectiles 230. A switch within selector circuit 250 may be opened in accordance with the control signal. In other embodiments, selector circuit 250 may electrically decouple a deployment unit from a signal generator and/or processing circuit responsive to a control signal. In some embodiments, the deployment unit may be electrically decoupled by selector circuit 250 responsive to a control signal not being received by selector circuit.

In embodiments, CEW 200 may comprise a control interface 240 configured to receive a signal indicating that a projectile of projectiles 230 should be deployed. Control interface 240 may perform operations of one or more control interfaces disclosed herein, including control interface 140 with brief reference to FIG. 1. Control interface 240 may comprise a user control interface. Control interface 240 may be configured to receive a manual input signal from a user. Control interface 240 may be configured to receive one or more activation signals 245. Control interface 240 may be configured to receive (e.g., detect, transform, sense, etc.) each activation signal of the one or more activation signals 245. For example, and with brief reference to FIGS. 2A-2D, control interface 240 may be configured to receive first activation signal 245-1 and second activation signal 245-2. Responsive to receiving an activation signal, control interface 240 may provide each received activation signal for subsequent processing by other circuits of CEW 200. For example, control interface 240 may provide each activation signal of the one or more activation signals 245 for subsequent processing performed by processing circuit 210. In embodiments, activation signals 245 may comprise a sequence of activation signals. Each activation signal of the sequence of activation signals may be provided discretely to the other circuits of CEW 200 by control interface 240.

In embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 2D, a communication circuit 270 may be configured to transmit a stimulus control signal to a projectile. Communication circuit 270 may perform operations of other communication circuits 270 disclosed here, including communication circuit 170 with brief reference to FIG. 1. Communication circuit 270 may be configured to transmit the stimulus control signal to a wireless projectile. Responsive to the stimulus control signal, the wireless projectile may be configured to deliver a stimulus signal to a target. Communication circuit 270 may transmit the stimulus control signal responsive to a control signal received from processing circuit 210. In some embodiments, communication circuit 270 may use one or more short range wireless communication protocols to transmit the stimulus control signal.

In embodiments, a first type of interference may be provided by CEW 200. The first type of interference may comprise mechanical interference. Providing the first type of interference may comprise deploying a first projectile. The first projectile may comprise an entangling projectile. For example, and with brief reference to FIG. 2A, deploying the first type of interference may comprise deploying entangling projectile 230-1 toward remote location 260. Entangling projectile 230-1 may comprise a first entangling projectile of CEW 200. Entangling projectile 230-1 may encircle a target at remote location 260 to mechanically interfere with motion of a target at remote location 260. Deploying the first projectile may comprise providing an ignition signal to a deployment unit in which the first projectile is disposed prior to launch. Deploying the first projectile may comprise deploying the first projectile responsive to a first activation signal 245-1 received via a control interface 240. Providing a first type of interference may comprise one or more operations and/or elements shown with regards to FIG. 2A.

In some embodiments, entangling projectile 230-1 may remain coupled to other components of CEW 200 after being deployed. Projectiles 230, including entangling projectile 230-1, may remain coupled to the other components via one or more tethers 232. Entangling projectile 230-1 may comprise a tethered bola. For example, entangling projectile 230-1 may remain coupled to the other components of CEW 200 via first tether 232-1. First tether 232-1 may further interconnect two weights of entangling projectile 230-1. First tether 232-1 may maintain physical and electrical coupling between entangling projectile 230-1 and a deployment unit from which entangling projectile 230-1 was deployed. The one or more tethers may be electrically conductive. For example, each tether of the one or more tethers may comprise a conductive wire. A tether of the one or more tethers may comprise an insulated tether. For example, each tether of the one or more tethers may comprise an insulated wire. The one or more tethers may enable entangling projectile 230-1 to be electrically coupled to signal generator 220. Each of two weights of entangling projectile 230-1 may be coupled to signal generator 220 by first tether 232-1. By remaining coupled to other components of CEW 200, a stimulus signal may be selectively provided via entangling projectile 230-1. In other embodiments, an entangling projectile may comprise a wireless projectile by which a stimulus signal may yet be selectively provided, including as further discussed below.

In embodiments, a first portion of first tether 232-1 may interconnect a first weighted portion and a second weighted portion of first entangling projectile 230-1. A second portion of first tether 232-1 may couple one or more of the first weighted portion, the second weighted portion, and the first portion of first tether 232-1 to a handle portion of CEW 200. The second portion of first tether 232-1 may electrically couple signal generator 220 and/or selector circuit 250 to first entangling projectile 230-1. In some embodiments, the second portion of first tether 232-1 may comprise multiple tethers respectively coupled between another portion of CEW 200 and one or more of the first weighted portion of first entangling projectile 230-1, the second weighted portion of first entangling projectile 230-1, and the first portion of first tether 232-1 of first entangling projectile 230-1. In other embodiments, separate tethers may be employed to separately couple elements of an entangling projectile to a handle portion of a conducted electrical weapon, as well as interconnect weights of the entangling projectile, rather than different portions of a same, continuous tether as illustrated in FIG. 2A.

In embodiments, entangling projectile 230-1 may enable a stimulus signal to be provided to a target at target location 260. Entangling projectile 230-1 may form part of a complete circuit between signal generator 220 and the target after entangling projectile 230-1 is deployed toward target location 260. Each element of entangling projectile 230-1 and first tether 232-1 may be electrically conductive. For example, a weighted portion and/or barb of entangling projectile 230-1 may be electrically conductive. However, in some embodiments and according to various aspects of the present disclosure, the stimulus signal may not be delivered and/or deliverable until additional operations are performed by CEW 200. Such operations, including as further discussed below, may comprise deploying a second projectile and/or providing a stimulus control signal.

In some embodiments, other projectiles may remain undeployed from CEW 200 when a first type of interference is provided. For example, second projectile 230-2 may remained unlaunched in a deployment unit of CEW 200. In some embodiments, and in accordance with the other projectiles remaining undeployed, CEW 200 may be unable (not configured, precluded from, electrically decoupled, etc.) to provide a second type of interference to a remote location. For example, in accordance with second projectile 230-2 being undeployed to target location 260, an electrical interference may be precluded from being provided to a target at remote location 260. For example, CEW 200 may lack a return path by which a stimulus signal may be provided to remote location when second projectile 230-2 remains physically located at CEW 200. First projectile 230-1, once deployed, may provide a partial, open signal path between signal generator 220 and a target a target location 260. CEW 200 may be unable to deliver a first or second portion of a stimulus signal to remote location 260 in accordance with second projectile 230-2 being undeployed. With such an arrangement, the second type of interference may be selectively provided to remote location, enabling CEW 200 interfere with movement of a target at remote location 260 using only the first type of interference and not the second type of interference in accordance with a force necessary for an incident. Application of the first type of interference alone may reduce an overall amount of force deployed by CEW 200 at the incident. Yet, a second type of interference may remain available for subsequent use as necessary at the incident.

In some embodiments, CEW 200 may selectively provide a second type of interference. The second type of interference may, for example, be provided when a first type of interference is ineffective in reducing movement of a target at remote location 260. The second type of interference may be provided with an insufficient amount of the first type of interference is provided at the remote location. The second type of interference may be provided using one or more same projectiles by which the first type of interference was provided. Such an arrangement may enable both types of interference to be provided via a same CEW, thereby reducing or avoiding a need for separate, additional components for each type of interference. In some embodiments, the second type of interference may comprise electrical interference. CEW 200 may provide a second type of interference in accordance with one or more operations and/or elements as shown in FIGS. 2B-2D.

In embodiments, CEW 200 may comprise a second projectile for providing the second type of interference. The second projectile may enable the second type of interference to be delivered. In various embodiments, the second type of interference may comprise electrical interference. The second projectile may enable a stimulus signal of the second type of interference to be delivered to a target at remote location 260 in order to provide electrical interference of movement of the target at remote location 260. The second projectile may couple a second output signal from a signal generator to a target at remote location 260.

In some embodiments, the second projectile may comprise a different type of projectile relative to the first projectile. For example, the first projectile may comprise an entangling projectile and the second projectile may comprise a direct contact projectile. For example, and with reference to FIG. 2B, the first projectile may comprise first entangling projectile 230-1 and the second projectile may comprise a direct contact projectile 230-2. Direct contact projectile 230-2 may comprise an electrode. Direct contact projectile 230-2 may comprise a spear on a forward surface of a body of direct contact projectile 230-2. The spear may be configured to pierce tissue of the target to mechanically and electrically couple direct contact projectile 230-2 to the target. Direct contact projectile 230-2 may lack components of an entangling projectile necessary to cause the projectile to encircle the target upon contact with the target. For example, direct contact projectile 230-2 may lack a second weight interconnected by a tether to a body of direct contact projectile 230-2.

In some embodiments, direct contact projectile 230-2 may remain coupled to other components of CEW 200 after being deployed. For example, direct contact projectile 230-2 may remain coupled to the other components of CEW 200 via second tether 232-2. Second tether 232-2 may maintain physical and electrical coupling between direct contact projectile 230-2 and a deployment unit from which direct contact projectile 230-2 was deployed. Second tether 232-2 may be electrically conductive. Second tether 232-2 may comprise an insulated or uninsulated tether. For example, second tether 232-2 may comprise an insulated wire or an uninsulated wire. At least one tether of direct contact projectile 230-2 may enable direct contact projectile 230-2 to be electrically coupled to signal generator 220. By remaining coupled to other components of CEW 200, a stimulus signal may be selectively provided via direct contact projectile 230-2. Second tether 232-2 may couple a second output signal from a stimulus signal to direct contact projectile 230-2 to enable a stimulus signal to be provide via direct contact projectile 230-2. The second output signal may be coupled to the target via second tether 232-2 and a second projectile comprising direct contact projectile 230-2, while a first output signal from signal generator 220 may be coupled to the target via first tether 232-1 and a first projectile comprising first entangling projectile 230-1. The stimulus signal may be provided in accordance with the first output signal conducted by first entangling projectile 230-1 and a second output signal conducted by a second projectile comprising direct contact projectile 230-2.

In embodiments, direct contact projectile 230-2 may enable a stimulus signal to be provided to a target at remote location 260. Direct contact projectile 230-2 may form part of a complete circuit between signal generator 220 and the target after direct contact projectile 230-2 is deployed toward remote location 260. Each element of direct contact projectile 230-2 and second tether 232-2 may be electrically conductive. For example, a body portion and/or spear of direct contact projectile 230-2 may be electrically conductive. Upon electrical coupling, and in combination with a deployed first projectile, direct contact projectile 230-2 may provide a complete electrical signal path between CEW 200 and the target. For example, a stimulus signal generated by signal generator 220 of CEW 200 may be coupled to the target via a first path provided selector circuit 250, a deployment unit of entangling projectile 230-1, first tether 232-1, entangling projectile 230-1, tissue of the target, direct contact projectile 230-2, second tether 232-2, a deployment unit of direct contact projectile 230-2 and then a second path provided by selector circuit 250. Each of entangling projectile 230-1 and direct contact projectile 230-2 may couple a respective output signal from signal generator 220 to the target to provide a stimulus signal to the target. Each of entangling projectile 230-1 and direct contact projectile 230-2 may provide a separate electrical signal path between a handle of CEW 200 and a target at target location 260.

In some embodiments, the second projectile may comprise a same type of projectile relative to the first projectile. For example, the first projectile may comprise an entangling projectile and the second projectile may comprise another entangling projectile. For example, and with reference to FIG. 2C, the first projectile may comprise entangling projectile 230-1, also referred to herein as first entangling projectile 230-1, and the second projectile may comprise a second entangling projectile 230-3. Second entangling projectile 230-3 may comprise two weights interconnected via at least one tether. Second entangling projectile 230-3 may comprise a same type of projectile as first entangling projectile 230-1. Second entangling projectile 230-3 may be separate from first entangling projectile 230-1. Second entangling projectile 230-3 may be deployed from a different deployment unit relative to a deployment unit from which first entangling projectile 230-1 is deployed. Second entangling projectile 230-3 may comprise a barb on a side surface of a weighted portion of the second entangling projectile 230-2. The barb may be configured to pierce tissue of the target to mechanically and electrically couple second entangling projectile 230-3 to the target.

In embodiments, a second projectile comprising a second entangling projectile may enable a second amount of a first type of interference to a target at remote location 260. Each of the entangling projectiles may respectively prevent motion of a target at remote location 260. For example, each of first entangling projectile 230-1 and second entangling projectile 230-3 may provide a respective amount of mechanical interference to a target at a target location. Such an arrangement may further enable a second, different type of interference to be provided in accordance with an effectiveness of the applied first type of interference. In some incidents, the second type of interference may not be necessary to be applied to a target in accordance with the first type of interference provided by the first and the second entangling projectiles being effective at preventing locomotion of the target.

In some embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 2C, second entangling projectile 230-3 may remain coupled to other components of CEW 200 after being deployed. Second entangling projectile 230-3 may comprise a wire-tethered projectile, also referred to herein as a tethered projectile. Second entangling projectile 230-3 may remain coupled to the other components via one or more tethers of tethers 232. For example, second entangling projectile 230-3 may remain coupled to the other components of CEW 200 via third tether 232-3. Third tether 232-3 may maintain physical and electrical coupling between second entangling projectile 230-3 and a deployment unit from which second entangling projectile 230-3 was deployed. The one or more tethers may be electrically conductive. The one or more tethers may be insulated or uninsulated. For example, one or more tethers of second entangling projectile 230-2 may comprise an insulated or uninsulated wire. The one or more tethers may enable second entangling projectile 230-3 to be electrically coupled to signal generator 220. By remaining coupled to other components of CEW 200 via third tether 232-3, a stimulus signal may be selectively provided via second entangling projectile 230-3. A first portion of third tether 232-3 may interconnect a first weighted portion and a second weighted portion of second entangling projectile 230-3. A second portion of third tether 232-3 may couple one or more of the first weighted portion, the second weighted portion, and the first portion of third tether 232-3 to a handle portion of CEW 200. The second portion of third tether 232-3 may electrically couple signal generator 220 and/or selector circuit 250 to portions of second entangling projectile 230-3.

In embodiments, second entangling projectile 230-3 may enable a stimulus signal to be provided to a target at remote location 260. Second entangling projectile 230-3 may form part of a complete circuit between signal generator 220 and the target after second entangling projectile 230-3 is deployed toward remote location 260. The complete circuit may comprise another electrical signal path between CEW 200 and the target provided by another deployed projectile. Each of second entangling projectile 230-3 and third tether 232-3 may be electrically conductive. For example, a weighted portion and/or barb of second entangling projectile 230-3 may be electrically conductive. Upon electrical coupling, and in combination with a deployed first projectile, second entangling projectile 230-3 may provide a complete electrical signal path between CEW 200 and the target. For example, a stimulus signal generated by signal generator 220 of CEW 200 may be coupled to the target via a first path provided selector circuit 250, a deployment unit of first entangling projectile 230-1, first tether 232-1, entangling projectile 230-1, tissue of the target, second entangling projectile 230-3, third tether 232-3, a deployment unit of second entangling projectile 230-3, and then a second path provided by selector circuit 250.

In embodiments, third tether 232-3 may couple a second output signal from a stimulus signal to second entangling projectile 230-3 to enable a stimulus signal to be provide via second entangling projectile 230-3. The second output signal may be coupled to the target via third tether 232-3 and a second projectile comprising second entangling projectile 230-3, while a first output signal from signal generator 220 may be coupled to the target via first tether 232-1 and a first projectile comprising first entangling projectile 230-1. The stimulus signal may be provided in accordance with the first output signal conducted by first entangling projectile 230-1 and a second output signal conducted by a second projectile comprising second entangling projectile 230-3. In some embodiments, the first projectile may be deployed after the second projectile, rather than before the second projectile as illustrated in FIGS. 2A-C.

In some embodiments, other types of entangling projectiles may be employed. The other types of entangling projectiles may comprise one or more wireless entangling projectiles. For example, and with reference to FIG. 2D, third entangling projectile 230-4 and fourth entangling projectile 230-5 may be decoupled from other components of CEW 200 after being deployed. A first projectile deployed by CEW 200 may comprise third entangling projectile 230-4. In embodiments, third entangling projectile 230-1 may perform the functions of first entangling projectile 230-1, including by providing a first type of interference. Third entangling projectile 230-4 may be coupled or decoupled from a signal generator of CEW 200 after being deployed. A second projectile deployed by CEW 200 may comprise fourth entangling projectile 230-5. Fourth entangling projectile 230-5 may be deployed after third entangling projectile 230-4. Fourth entangling projectile 230-5 may perform the functions of second entangling projectile 230-3 with brief reference to FIG. 2C, including by providing a second amount of a first type of interference. Each of first entangling projectile 230-1, second entangling projectile 230-3, third entangling projectile 230-4 and fourth entangling projectile 230-5 may comprise two weighted portions interconnected via a tether. However, fourth entangling projectile 230-5 may be physically coupled to another projectile, rather than a handle of CEW 200.

In embodiments, and after being deployed, third entangling projectile 230-4 and fourth entangling projectile 230-5 may be interconnected by fourth tether 232-4. Fourth tether 232-4 may physically and electrically couple fourth entangling projectile 230-4 and second entangling projectile 230-3. Fourth tether 232-4 may provide a physical and electrical coupling between third entangling projectile 230-4 and fourth entangling projectile 230-5 instead of other components of CEW 200. In some embodiments, third entangling projectile 230-4 and fourth entangling projectile 230-5 may be coupled via fourth tether 232-4 before, during, and after launch of each of third entangling projectile 230-3 and fourth entangling projectile 230-5. Fourth tether 232-4 may comprise an insulated or uninsulated wire. After being deployed, third entangling projectile 230-4 and fourth entangling projectile 230-5 may each be decoupled from deployment unit(s) from which these projectiles 230-4, 230-5 were deployed. After being deployed, third entangling projectile 230-4 and fourth entangling projectile 230-5 may be decoupled from signal generator 220 integrated in a housing of CEW 200. In such embodiments, a signal generator for generating a stimulus signal may be disposed in one or more weighted portion and/or other portions of third entangling projectile 230-4, fourth entangling projectile 230-5, and/or fourth tether 232-4.

In some embodiments, communication circuit 270 may be configured to control operation of one or more wireless projectiles deployed by CEW 200. Communication circuit 270 may transmit one or more wireless signals to the one or more wireless projectiles. For example, and with reference to FIG. 2D, communication circuit 270 may transmit a stimulus control signal to third entangling projectile 230-4 and/or fourth entangling projectile 230-5. Responsive to receiving the stimulus signal control signal, third entangling projectile 230-4 and/or fourth entangling projectile 230-5 may generate a stimulus signal. This stimulus signal may be delivered to a target to which third entangling projectile 230-4 and/or fourth entangling projectile 230-5 are electrically coupled to interfere with movement of the target.

In embodiments, a wireless entangling projectile deployed by a CEW may comprise a pair of entangling projectiles that are tethered to each other (e.g., interconnected). For example, a wireless projectile deployed by CEW 200 may comprise third entangling projectile 230-4 and fourth entangling projectile 230-5 tethered via fourth tether 232-4. In other embodiments, a wireless projectile configured to provide a stimulus signal may comprise a single entangling projectile. For example, a wireless entangling projectile may comprise one or more elements of entangling projectile 300 with brief reference to FIG. 3.

In various embodiments, an entangling projectile may be provided. The entangling projectile may be configured to selectively deliver a stimulus signal to a target at a remote location. The entangling projectile may be configured for both mechanically and electrically interfering with movement of the target. The entangling projectile may comprise a wireless entangling projectile. For example, and with brief reference to FIG. 3, entangling projectile 300 may mechanically and electrically couple to a target. In embodiments, entangling projectiles disclosed herein may be comprise one or more components of entangling projectile 300. In embodiments, entangling projectile 300 may comprise two or more weighted portions 310, at least one tether 312, a plurality of contacts 314, a plurality of barbs 316, a signal generator 320, two or more electrical signal paths 340, a power supply 360, and a communication circuit 370.

In embodiments, the two or more weighted portions 310 and tether 312 may be configured to provide a first type of interference. Weighted portions 310 may include first weighted portion 310-1 and second weighted portion 310-2. First weighted portion 310-1 may be coupled to tether 312 opposite second weighted portion 310-2. A weight of each weighted portion of weighted portions 310 may be greater than a weight of tether 312. Upon deployment of entangling projectile 300, tether 312 may be launched toward a target at a remote location, while first weighted portion 310-1 and second weighted portion 310-2 may be launched toward opposite, lateral sides of the target. Impact of the tether 312 with the target may cause each of the weighted portions 310 to wrap around a portion of the target to provide mechanical interference with the portion of the target.

In embodiments, a weighted portion of weighted portions 310 may comprise one or more barbs of a plurality of barbs 316. Each barb of the plurality of barbs 316 may be coupled to an external housing of the weighted portion to which it is coupled. Each barb may extend in a perpendicular direction relative to which a direction in which tether 312 is coupled to the respective weighted portion of weighted portions 310. Each barb may extend from a side surface of the weighted portion to which the barb is attached. As tether 312 wraps around a target, each weighted portion may be drawn closer to a respective surface of the target until the weighted portion contacts the surface of the target. Upon contact, each barb of barbs 316 may pierce the surface to retain the weighted portion to the target. In embodiments, each weighted portion of weighted portions 310 may comprise two or more barbs of barbs 316. For example, first weighted portion 310-1 may be coupled to first barb 316-1 and second barb 316-2, and second weighted portion 310-2 may be coupled to third barb 316-3 and fourth barb 316-4. In some embodiments, each barb of barbs 316 may be electrically conductive.

In embodiments, signal generator 320 may be configured to provide one or more signals for a deployment unit. Signal generator 320 may perform operations of other signal generators disclosed here, including signal generators 120 or 220 with brief reference to FIGS. 1 and 2A-2C. Signal generator 320 may be integrated in the two or more weighted portions of entangling projectile 300. For example, signal generator 320 may be disposed in first weighted portion 310-1. Signal generator 320 may be communicatively coupled to communication circuit 370. Signal generator 320 may receive a control signal. For example, signal generator 320 may receive a control signal from communication circuit 370. Responsive to the control signal, signal generator 320 may generate a stimulus signal. The stimulus signal may comprise a positive charge (e.g., positive charge portion) and a negative charge (e.g., negative charge portion). Signal generator 320 may be further coupled to power supply 360. Signal generator 320 may use electrical power from power supply 360 to generate a stimulus signal. Signal generator 320 may provide the stimulus signal along two or more signal paths 340. In some embodiments, signal generator 320 and/or signal paths 340 may be coupled to a housing of each weighted portion of weighted portions 310 and/or one or more barbs of barbs 316. For example, first barb 316-1 and second barb 316-2 may be coupled to second signal path 342-2, while third barb 316-3 and fourth barb 316-4 may be coupled to first signal path 342-1. Based on such a coupling, a stimulus signal may be further provided to a target via each such housing and/or barb.

In various embodiments, power supply 360 may be configured to provide power to various components of entangling projectile 300. Power supply 360 may perform operations of other power supplied disclosed here, including signal generator 120 with brief reference to FIG. 1. Power supply 360 may provide energy for operating the electronic and/or electrical components (e.g., parts, subsystems, circuits, etc.) of entangling projectile 300. Power supply 360 may provide electrical power. Providing electrical power may include providing a current at a voltage. Power supply 360 may be electrically coupled to communication circuit 370 and/or signal generator 320. Power supply 360 may provide an electrical current at a voltage. Electrical power from power supply 360 may be provided as a direct current (“DC”). Electrical power from power supply 360 may be provided as an alternating current (“AC”). Power supply 360 may include a battery. The energy of power supply 360 may be renewable or exhaustible, and/or replaceable. For example, power supply 360 may comprise one or more rechargeable or disposable batteries. In various embodiments, the energy from power supply 360 may be converted from one form (e.g., electrical, magnetic, thermal) to another form to perform the functions of a projectile.

Power supply 360 may provide energy for performing the functions of entangling projectile 300. For example, power supply 360 may provide electrical current to signal generator 320. Signal generator 320 may further use this electrical current to provide a stimulus signal through a target to impede locomotion of the target (e.g., via one or more contacts 314 and/or barbs 316). Power supply 360 may provide the energy for the stimulus signal generated by signal generator. Power supply 360 may provide the energy for communication circuit 370. Communication circuit 370 may use the electrical power from power supply 360 to detect a wireless communication signal. Communication circuit 370 may use the electrical power from power supply 360 to generate and/or relay a control signal to signal generator 320.

In embodiments, communication circuit 370 may be configured to transmit and/or receive information from another device, separate from entangling projectile 300. For example, communication circuit 370 may receive a stimulus signal control signal from a remote communication circuit. The remote communication circuit may comprise one or more of communication circuits 170 and/or 270 with brief reference to FIGS. 1 and 2D. Communication circuit 370 may relay (e.g., demodulate, decode, transform, etc.) a received stimulus control signal into a control signal. The control signal may be provided to signal generator 320 to cause signal generator to generate a stimulus signal. Alternately or additionally, communication circuit 370 may transmit information associated with entangling projectile 300 to a conducted electrical weapon from which entangling projectile 300. Such information may include a unique identifier of entangling projectile 300, a power supply status of entangling projectile 300, or other information associated with entangling projectile 300 or a state of deployment of entangling projectile 300.

In embodiments, one or more signal paths 340 may be configured to conduct electrical signals within tether 312 of entangling projectile 300. Each signal path of paths 340 may comprise a discrete signal path. Each signal path may be insulated from another path of paths 340. For example, first signal path 342-1 may comprise a first insulated wire and second signal path 342-2 may comprise a second insulated wire. A path of signal paths 340 may be coupled to conduct a portion of stimulus signal. The portion of the stimulus signal may comprise an output signal of signal generator 320. Two or more paths of signal paths 340 may be used to conduct portions of a stimulus signal. The portions may comprise same or different portions of stimulus signal. For example, first signal path 342-1 may be coupled to a positive charge portion of a stimulus signal and second signal path 342-2 may be coupled to a negative charge portion of the same stimulus signal generated by signal generator 320. First signal path 342-1 may conduct a first output signal of a stimulus signal generated by signal generator 320 and second signal path 342-2 may conduct a second output signal of the stimulus signal generated by signal generator 320. Other signal paths of signal paths 340 (not shown) may be provided to conduct signals between components of entangling projectile 300, including control signals or other types of signals between signal generator 320, power supply 360, and communication circuit 370.

In embodiments, one or more electrical contacts 314 may be configured to couple a stimulus signal to a target. Each electrical contact of electrical contacts 314 may comprise an electrically conductive material. For example, electrical contact may comprise copper or a copper alloy. Each electrical contact may conduct the stimulus signal at a predetermined physical position along tether 312. Each electrical contact may comprise a discrete surface portion along tether. For example, each electrical contact may comprise a metal pad by which a stimulus signal may be conducted. An external surface of tether 312 may be non-conductive at physical positions along the tether other than at each contact of the one or more contacts 314.

In embodiments, an electrical contact of electrical contacts 314 may be coupled to a predetermined signal path. The electrical contact may conduct a portion of a stimulus signal coupled to the predetermined signal path. For example, first electrical contact 314-1 may be coupled to first signal path 342-1. First electrical contact 314-1 may further conduct a negative or positive portion of a stimulus signal coupled to first signal path 342-1. In embodiments, multiple electrical contacts of electrical contacts 314 may be coupled to a same signal path. For example, first electrical contact 314-1 and third electrical contact 314-3 may each be coupled to first signal path 342-1. In embodiments, different electrical contacts may be coupled to different signal paths of signal paths 340. For example, first electrical contact 314-1, third electrical contact 314-3, and fifth electrical contact 314-5 may be coupled to first signal path 342-1 and second electrical contact 314-2 and fourth electrical contact 314-4 may be coupled to second signal path 342-2. In some embodiments, electrical contacts 314 may be disposed along an entire length of tether 312. In other embodiments, electrical contacts 314 may be disposed only along a center region of tether 312 or only along each outer region of tether 312 proximate a respective weighted portion of weighted portions 310.

In embodiments, spacings 330 between electrical contacts may be predetermined. For example, contacts of electrical contacts 314 coupled to a common signal path of paths may be disposed at a regular spacing. For example, first spacing 330-1 may be provided between third and fifth electrical contacts 314-3,5 and between second and fourth electrical contacts 324-2,4. First spacing 330-1 may be disposed long a length of tether 312. First spacing 330-1 may be provided along a longest external dimension of tether 312. Such an arrangement may increase likelihood of conductive contact between a contact of electrical contacts 314 and a target, including when entangling projectile 300 physically contacts the target in different orientations and/or along different portions of the target.

In embodiments, a physical position of an electrical contact coupled to one signal path may be offset from a physical position of an electrical contact coupled to another, different signal path. For example, fourth electrical contact 314-4 may be offset from fifth electrical contact 314-5 along a length of tether 312 by a second spacing 330-2. Second spacing 330-2 may be less than first spacing 330-1. For example, second spacing may be half of a distance as first spacing 330-1. In accordance with the offset provided by second spacing, arcing of different charge portions of a stimulus signal between different electrical contacts of electrical contacts 314 may be prevented. Accordingly, a stimulus signal provided via different signal paths of paths 340 may be conducted through a target, rather than in-air or otherwise external to a target in accordance with second spacing 330-2.

In embodiments, a tethered entangling projectile may comprise one or more components of entangling projectile. For example, and with brief reference to FIG. 2A and 3, first entangling projectile 230-1 may comprise one or more signal paths 340, one or more electrical contacts 314, a conductive housing for one or more weighted portions 310, and/or one or more conductive barbs 316. The tethered entangling projectile may lack (e.g., not include, exclude) other portions of entangling projectile. For example, first entangling projectile 230-1 may lack signal generator 320, power supply 360, and communication circuit 370. Instead of using such integrated components, the tethered entangling projectile may employ corresponding components disposed in a handle portion of a CEW. For example, a stimulus signal conducted by first entangling projectile 230-1 may be provided in accordance with operation of signal generator 120 and/or 220 and power supply 160 with brief reference to FIGS. 1 and 2A. The tethered entangling projectile may conduct the stimulus signal via a signal path further provided in a length of a tether between the tethered entangling projectile and the handle portion of the CEW. The tethered entangling projectile may further comprise at least one additional tether or portion of a tether than interconnects the entangling projectile to the handle portion of the CEW.

In embodiments, various projectiles disclosed herein may comprise one or more features of projectile 300. For example, and with brief reference to FIG. 2A and 3, first tether 232-1 of first entangling projectile 230-1 may comprise one or more electrical contacts 314 that enable a portion of a stimulus signal to be coupled to a target. For example, one or more contacts of first tether 232-1 may enable first output signal 122-1 to be electrically coupled to a target. Second output signal 122-2 may be electrically coupled to the target via a different projectile and/or a different portion of first entangling projectile 230-1. For example, direct contact projectile 230-2 and/or second tether 232-2 may provide second output signal 122-2 to a target at remote location 260 to deliver a stimulus signal to the target in combination with first entangling projectile 230-1. In some embodiments, second tether 232-2 may comprise one or more contacts 314.

In alternate or additional embodiments, one or more of the weighted portions of first entangling projectile 230-1 may comprise a respective electrical contact for delivering a stimulus signal. The respective electrical contact may include one or more barbs 316 and/or be provided on one or more surfaces of the weighted portions of first entangling projectile 230-1.

In some embodiments, an electrical contact on each weighted portion of the two weighted portions of first entangling projectile 230-1 may be coupled to different respective output signals provided by a signal generator in order to couple a stimulus signal to a target. For example, a first weight of first entangling projectile 230-1 may conduct a first charge portion or output signal of a stimulus signal and a second, different weight of first entangling projectile 230-1 may conduct a second, different charge portion or output signal of a stimulus signal. In other embodiments, a projectile deployed by a CEW may only conduct a single output signal for a stimulus signal (e.g., one voltage, one electric charge, etc.). In such embodiments at least two projectiles may be required to be deployed in order to provide each portion of a stimulus signal necessary for the stimulus signal to be delivered to a target at a remote location.

In embodiments, a CEW may comprise different configurations for deploying projectiles. The different configurations may comprise deploying the projectiles in different directions from the CEW. Alternately or additionally, the different configurations may comprise deploying the projectiles from different portions of the CEW. In some embodiments, different types of projectiles may be deployed in accordance with the different configurations. In embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 4, a CEW comprising different configurations for deploying projectiles is provided. CEW 400 may comprise a housing 105 having a grip end 112 and a distal end 114. CEW 400 may be configured to deploy one or more projectiles 430 from distal end 114 of CEW 400. CEW 400 may further be configured to deploy at least one projectile of projectiles 430 from grip end 112 of CEW 100. Within housing 105, CEW 400 may further comprise one or more control interfaces 140, processing circuits 110, and/or signal generators 120. Housing 105 may include a guard 145. Guard 145 may define an opening in housing 105 in which control interface 140 is disposed. In embodiments, housing 105, control interface(s) 140, processing circuit(s) 110, signal generator(s) 120, and guard 145 may comprise respective elements of CEW 100 with brief reference to FIG. 1. In embodiments, CEW 400 may perform operations of one or more CEWs disclosed herein, including CEW 100 and/or CEW 200 with brief reference to FIGS. 1 and 2A-D. A system for providing different types of interference according to various aspects of the present disclosure may comprise one or more components of CEW 400. The system may include components of CEW 400 and/or one or more of CEW 100 and CEW 200, as well as projectile 300 according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

CEW 400 may further comprise a removeable magazine 434. Removeable magazine 434 may perform functions of magazine 134 with brief reference to FIG. 1. Removeable magazine 434 may be configured to receive one or more deployment units of deployment units 436.

In embodiments, each deployment unit of the deployment units 436 may comprise a respective projectile of one or more projectiles 430, as well as a respective propulsion module of propulsion modules 432. For example, magazine 434 may receive first deployment unit 436-1 that includes first propulsion module 432-1 and first projectile 430-1, second deployment unit 436-2 that includes second propulsion module 432-2 and second projectile 430-2, and third deployment unit 436-3 that includes third propulsion module 432-3 and third projectile 430-3. Each propulsion module of one or more propulsion modules 432 may be configured to perform operations of one or more propulsion modules 132 with brief reference to FIG. 1.

In embodiments, each deployment unit of deployment units 436 received by magazine 434 may be configured to deploy a same type of projectile. For example, each of first projectile 430-1, second projectile 430-2, and third projectile 430-3 may comprise a respective direct contact projectile. In embodiments, each projectile of one or more projectiles 430 received in magazine 434 may perform operations of third projectile 130-3 with brief reference to FIG. 1. The deployment unit(s) received in removeable magazine 434 may comprise a first set of one or more deployment units 436. The projectile(s) deployed from removeable magazine 434 may comprise a first set of one or more projectiles 430.

In embodiments, CEW 400 may comprise a second magazine 438 configured to deploy a second set of one or more projectiles 430. Each projectile of the second set of one or more projectiles 430 may be deployed from a respective deployment unit of a second set of one or more deployment units 436. For example, second magazine 438 may comprise fourth deployment unit 436-4 of one or more deployment units 436. Fourth deployment unit 436-4 may comprise fourth propulsion module 432-4 and fourth projectile 430-4. Fourth deployment unit 436-4 may be configured to deploy fourth projectile 430-4 when an ignition signal is applied to fourth propulsion module 432-4.

In embodiments, a deployment unit received by second magazine 438 may comprise a different type of projectile than a type of projectile received by magazine 434. For example, fourth projectile 430-4 may comprise an entangling projectile. First projectile 430-1 may comprise a direct contact projectile, different from a type of fourth projectile 430-4. In embodiments, each projectile deployable from second magazine 438 may comprise a different type of projectile relative to a type of projectile received by magazine 434.

In some embodiments, second magazine 438 may be removeable from other portions of CEW 400. Housing 105 may comprise a bay for receiving second magazine 438 at grip end 112. Second magazine 438 may comprise a second housing 465 separable from housing 105. Second housing 465 may be received in the bay for second magazine 438 at grip end 112. Second magazine 438 may comprise one or more locking elements (not shown) configured to selectively couple second magazine to housing 105 of CEW 400. Second housing 465 may be detached from housing 105. Second housing 465 may be detached from housing 105 via selective operation of the locking elements. In accordance with second magazine 438 being removeable, other portions of CEW 400 may remain operable without components of second magazine 438.

In some embodiments, second magazine 438 may comprise other components of CEW 400. For example, second housing 465 may comprise one or more power supplies 460. The one or more power supplies 460 may perform operations of power supply 160 with brief reference to FIG. 1. The one or more operations may be performed when second magazine 438 is communicatively and/or mechanically coupled to housing 105 of CEW 400. The one or more power supplies 460 may provide power to other components of CEW 400. The one or more power supplies 460 may provide power to components integrated in housing 105. Alternately or additionally, second housing 465 may comprise a second control interface 440. Second control interface 440 may be configured to perform one or more operations of control interface 140. Second control interface 440 may be operable to provide one or more activation signals. Second control interface 440 be operable to provide one or more activation signals for a second set of one or more deployment units 436 received in second magazine. In embodiments, power supply 460 and second control interface 440 may enable second magazine 438 to be operated when second magazine 438 is removed from other portions of CEW 400. For example, when housing 105 is decoupled from second housing 465, control interface 440 may be operable to couple an activation signal to fourth deployment unit 436-4 in accordance with power provided by power supply 460. Such an arrangement may enable second magazine 438 to be operated as an entanglement device, separate from the components in housing 105 of CEW 400 and the one or more deployment units 436 of magazine 434. In such an arrangement, the other portions of CEW may be operable upon a separate power supply being received in a bay of housing 105 that is also configured to separately, selectively receive second magazine 438.

In other embodiments, the second set of one or more deployment units 436 may be received in integrated, non-removeable portions of CEW 400. For example, housing 105 may comprise one or more fixed bays for receiving each projectile of the second set of one or more deployment units 436. In such embodiments, CEW 400 may lack second magazine 438 and/or second magazine 438 may be integrated with housing 105 in a manner that prevents separation of housing 105 and second magazine 438. In such arrangements, second magazine 438 may be fixedly integrated with housing 105.

In embodiments, the second set of one or more projectiles 430 may be deployed from a different portion of CEW 400 relative a portion of CEW 400 from which other projectiles of the one or more projectile 430 are deployed. The different portion of CEW 400 may comprise a different end of CEW 400. For example, a first set of one or more projectiles 430 may be launched from distal end 114 of CEW and a second set of one or more projectiles 430 may be launched from grip end 112 of CEW 400. A section of housing 105 may be disposed between the different portions of CEW 400 from which the second set and the first set of one or more projectile 430 may be deployed. For example, a section of housing 105 in which guard 145 is integrated may be disposed along housing 105 between a location from which first projectile 430-4 is deployed from CEW 400 and a second location from which fourth projectile 430-4 is deployed from CEW 400. The different portions of CEW 400 from which the different sets of projectiles 430 may be deployed may be separated by at least three inches, at least four inches, or more than four inches. A minimum separation between removeable magazine 434 and second magazine 438 may comprise at least at least three inches, at least four inches, or more than four inches.

In embodiments, the second set of one or more projectiles 430 may be deployed at a different angle from the first set of one or more projectiles 430. In accordance with the different angle, the second set of projectiles may be oriented toward a preferred portion of a target when housing 105 is oriented toward the target. The different angle may enable the second set of the one or more projectiles 430 to be oriented toward a preferable second portion of a target while the first set of the one or more projectiles 430 are oriented toward a preferable first portion of the target. The different portions of the target may be preferable in accordance with a respective type of projectile of the first set and second sets of one or more projectiles 430. The different portions of the target may be preferable in accordance with a likelihood of effectiveness of the respective type of projectile. For example, first projectile 430-1 of the first set of one or more projectiles 430 may comprise a direct contact projectile. First projectile 430-1 may have a greater likelihood of effectiveness when it contacts an abdominal portion of a target. Fourth projectile 430-4 of the second set of one or more projectiles 430 may comprise an entangling projectile. Fourth projectile 430-4 may have a greater likelihood of effectiveness when it contacts a leg portion of a target.

In embodiments, different set of projectiles 430 deployed by CEW 400 may be deployed in different directions. First projectile 430-1 of the first set of one or more projectiles 430 may be deployed from CEW 400 in a first direction 480-1. Fourth projectile 430-4 of the second set of one or more projectiles 430 may be deployed from CEW 400 at a second direction 480-2 different from first direction 480-1. First direction 480-1 and second direction 480-1 may define a respective angle relative to a same plane. For example, each direction of directions 480 may define an angle relative to a plane along a top surface of housing 105. A first angle defined by first direction 480-1 may be parallel to the plane. A first angle associated with first direction 480-1 may comprise a zero-degree angle. A second angle defined by second direction 480-2 may be non-parallel to the plane. The second angle of second direction 480-2 may comprise a non-zero-degree angle. A second angle of second direction 480-2 may comprise an angle between three and twelve degrees. In some embodiments, a relative angle between first direction 480-1 and second direction 480-2 may comprise an angle between three and twelve degrees. In some embodiments, a relative angle between first direction 480-1 and second direction 480-2 may comprise an angle greater than twelve degrees. In embodiments, first direction 480-1 may be oriented toward an abdominal portion of a target when second direction 480-2 is oriented toward a leg portion of the target. In such embodiments, the target may be located a predetermined distance, or within a predetermined range of distances, away from CEW 400. In accordance with different directions 480, CEW 400 may be enabled to deploy different types of projectiles toward different portions of a target without CEW 400 being repositioned (re-oriented, re-aimed, etc.) between launch of a projectile of the second set of one or more projectiles 430 and launch of another projectile of the first set of one or more projectiles 430.

In embodiments, CEW 400 may comprise selector circuit 450 configured to couple one or more signals to one or more deployment units of deployment units 436. Selector circuit 450 may perform operations of selector circuit 150 with brief reference to FIG. 1. Selector circuit 450 may further coupled one or more signals to a second set of deployment units of one or more deployment units 436. For example, selector circuit 450 may couple an ignition signal to fourth deployment unit 436-4 of second magazine 438. Upon the ignition signal being received by fourth propulsion module 432-4, fourth projectile 430-4 may be launched from fourth deployment unit 436-4. In embodiments, selector circuit 450 may or may not couple a stimulus signal to the second set of one or more deployment units 436 in accordance with a type of deployment unit included in the second set of one or more deployment units 436. In embodiments, selector circuit 450 may couple one or more signals to the second set of one or more deployment units 436 in accordance with one or more control signals provided by processing circuit 110. In embodiments, the one or more signals may be coupled to the second set of one or more deployment units 436 in accordance with one or more signal received via control interface 140.

In embodiments, a method of providing multiple types of interference via a same device may be provided. For example, and with reference to FIG. 5, method 500 for providing different types of interference via a same device is provided. In embodiments, the same device may comprise a conducted electrical weapon as disclosed here. For example, the same device may comprise CEW 100 or CEW 200 or CEW 400 with brief reference to FIG. 1, 2A-D, and 4. The different types of interference may be provided via one or more projectiles. Each projectile of the one or more projectiles may comprise a projectile of projectiles 130, a projectile of projectiles 230, an entangling projectile 300, or a projectile of projectiles 430 with brief reference to FIGS. 1-4.

In embodiments, one or more operations of method 500 may be performed by a component of a CEW. The component may comprise a processor of the CEW. A computer-readable medium may comprise computer-executable instructions that are configured to be executed by a processor to perform one or more processes disclosed herein. For example, one or more operations may be performed by a processing circuit. The processing circuit may comprise processing circuit 110 and/or 210 with brief reference to FIGS. 1, 2A-D, and 4.

In embodiments, method 500 may comprise one or more of detecting a first activation signal 510, deploying a first projectile 520, detecting a second activation signal 530, deploying a second projectile 540, and/or providing a stimulus signal 550. The process flow for method 500 in FIG. 5 depicts one combination of blocks that may be implemented in accordance with one embodiment. Those of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the process flow for method 500 and/or other implementations disclosed herein may utilize additional and/or fewer blocks, components, and/or systems (including those discussed with respect to other figures and/or known in the art). Further, absent expressly indicating otherwise, the ordering of describing various implementations and blocks is merely for illustrative purposes and not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

In embodiments, method 500 may comprise providing a first type of interference. The first type of interference may comprise mechanical interference. In some embodiments, providing the first type of interference may comprise one or more of receiving a first activation signal 510 and/or deploying a first projectile 520.

In embodiments, a first activation signal may be detected. Detecting a first activation signal 510 may comprise detecting, by a processing circuit of a CEW, the first activation signal. The first activation signal may comprise a single activation signal. The first activation signal may be detected from a user control interface in communication with the processing circuit. For example, detecting a first activation signal 510 may comprise a processing circuit of CEW 100 detecting an activation signal via control interface 140 with brief reference to FIG. 1. Alternately or additionally, detecting the first activation signal 510 may comprise detecting first activation signal 245-1 via user control interface 240 brief reference to FIG. 2A.

In embodiments, a first projectile may be deployed. Method 500 may comprise deploying a first projectile 520. Deploying a first projectile 520 may comprise providing an ignition signal to a deployment unit. The ignition signal may be deployed to a deployment unit of the first projectile to deploy the first projectile. For example, and ignition signal may be provided by a processing circuit 110,210 to the deployment unit. Alternately or additionally, deploying the first projectile 520 may comprise providing the ignition signal from signal generator 120 and/or 220 responsive to a control signal with brief reference to FIG. 1, 2A, and/or 4. Deploying the first projectile 520 may comprise deploying an entangling projectile. For example, a first projectile 130 comprising an entangling projectile may be deployed with brief reference to FIG. 1. Alternately or additionally, entangling projectile 230-1 may be deployed with brief reference to FIG. 2A. Alternately or additionally, deploying the first projectile may comprise deploying third entangling projectile 230-4 with brief reference to FIG. 2A. Alternately or additionally, deploying the first projectile 520 may comprise deploying fourth projectile 430-4 with brief reference to FIG. 4. In some embodiments, the first projectile may comprise entangling projectile 300 with brief reference to FIG. 3. Deploying the first projectile 520 may comprise providing an ignition signal to a propulsion module coupled to one or more of projectiles 130-1, 230-1, 230-4, 300, and/or 430-4 with brief reference to FIGS. 1-4. Deploying the first projectile 520 may provide a first type of interference to a target at a remote location.

In embodiments, deploying the first projectile 520 may be performed independent of a stimulus signal. For example, a stimulus signal may not be provided during deployment of the first projectile. Providing the first type of interference may exclude a stimulus signal from being provided. A processing circuit may prevent a stimulus signal from being provided in accordance with receiving first activation signal 510 and/or deploying second projectile 520. For example, an open circuit may be selectively provided between a first projectile and signal generator 220 by selector circuit 250 with brief reference to FIG. 2A. Alternately or additionally, processing circuit 210 may provide a control signal to signal generator 220 to not and/or prevent signal generator 220 from generating the stimulus signal. Alternately or additionally, the first projectile may provide an in sufficient number of electrical signal paths between a signal generator of the CEW and the target, independent of one or more control signals applied or not applied to components of the CEW. The stimulus signal may not be provided until subsequent operation is performed by the CEW. For example, the stimulus signal may not be provided until after one or more of receiving a second activation signal 530 and/or deploying second projectile 540 is performed. In accordance with the first projectile being deployed independent of a stimulus signal, a first type of interference comprising a mechanical interference may be initially provided by devices according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

In embodiments, method 500 may comprise providing a second type of interference. The second type of interference may comprise electrical interference. The second type of interference may be different from a first type of interference previously provided by the CEW. For example, the first type of interference may comprise mechanical interference and the second type of interference may comprise electrical interference. Providing the second type of interference may comprise providing a stimulus signal. In combination with the first projectile, and in some embodiments, the second projectile may provide a closed circuit through which the stimulus signal may be delivered to the target at the remote location 260. The second projectile may provide a second electrical signal path between a conducted electrical weapon and target, along with a first electrical signal path provided by a deployed first projectile. Upon deployment of the second projectile toward a remote location, the second type of interference may be provided to a target at the remote location. The second type of interference may be provided using a projectile by which the first interference was provided. The second type of interference may be provided after the first interference is provided. The second type of interference may be selectively provided in accordance with an effectiveness of the first type of interference. Accordingly, and for some incidents, a second type of interference may not be necessary on order to de-escalate an incident. In some embodiments, providing the second type of interference may comprise one or more of receiving a second activation signal 530, deploying a second projectile 540, and/or providing a stimulus signal 550.

In embodiments, a second activation signal may be detected. Method 500 may comprise detecting a second activation signal 530. Detecting a second activation signal 530 may comprise detecting, by a processing circuit of a CEW, the second activation signal. The second activation signal may comprise another single activation signal. The second activation signal may be detected via a user control interface in communication with the processing circuit. For example, detecting a second activation signal 530 may comprise a processing circuit of CEW 100 detecting an activation signal via control interface 140 with brief reference to FIG. 1. Alternately or additionally, detecting the second activation signal 530 may comprise detecting second activation signal 245-2 via user control interface 240 brief reference to FIGS. 2B-D. In some embodiments, detecting the second activation signal 530 may comprise one or more common characteristics and/or operations of detecting the first activation signal 510 repeated at a second, subsequent time to when the first activation signal is detected.

In embodiments, a second projectile may be deployed. Method 500 may comprise deploying a second projectile 540. Providing the second type of interference may comprise deploying a second projectile 540 after a first projectile has been deployed. Deploying a second projectile 540 may comprise providing an ignition signal to a deployment unit. Deploying the second projectile 540 may comprise providing an ignition signal to a deployment unit in which the second projectile is disposed prior to launch. The second projectile may be deployed at a second point in time relative to a first point in time at which a first projectile is deployed. In some embodiments, the second point of time may be after the first point in time. In other embodiments, the second point of time may be before the first point in time. The ignition signal may be electrically coupled to a deployment unit of the second projectile to deploy the second projectile. For example, and ignition signal may be provided by a processing circuit 110,210 to the deployment unit. Alternately or additionally, deploying the second projectile 540 may comprise providing the ignition signal from signal generator 120 and/or 220 responsive to a control signal with brief reference to FIG. 1 and/or 2B-C. The second projectile may be deployed responsive to a second activation signal being received. For example, the second projectile may be deployed responsive to second activation signal 245-2 being received via control interface 240 with brief reference to FIGS. 2B-D. In embodiments, deploying the second projectile 540 may comprise deploying a tethered projectile. The tethered projectile may enable a stimulus signal to be delivered in part via a wired signal path between the second projectile and other components of the CEW. For example, the second projectile may comprise one or more of direct contact projectile 230-2 coupled to the other components via second tether 232-2 or second entangling projectile 230-3 coupled to the other components via third tether 232-3 with brief reference to FIGS. 2B-C.

In some embodiments, the second projectile may comprise an entangling projectile. The entangling projectile may enable an additional amount of a first type of interference to be provided. For example, the second projectile may comprise second projectile 130-2, second entangling projectile 230-3, and/or fourth projectile 230-5 with brief reference to FIGS. 1 and 2C-D. Deploying the second projectile 540 may comprise providing an ignition signal to a propulsion module coupled to one or more of second projectile 130-2, second entangling projectile 230-3, and/or fourth entangling projectile 230-5 with brief reference to FIGS. 1 and 2B-D.

In some embodiments, deploying the second projectile 540 may comprise deploying a wireless projectile, For example, deploying the second projectile 540 may comprise deploying fourth entangling projectile 230-5 with brief reference to FIG. 2D. The wireless projectile may be untethered to a housing of a CEW from which the wireless projectile is deployed. The wireless projectile may no longer be mechanically coupled to the CEW after the wireless projectile is deployed from the CEW. In some embodiments, the wireless projectile may be tethered to another projectile. For example, fourth entangling projectile 230-5 may be tethered via fourth tether 232-4 to third entangling projectile 230-4 prior to deployment of third entangling projectile 230-4. Fourth entangling projectile 230-5 may remain tethered to third entangling projectile 230-4 after deployment of third entangling projectile 230-4 and prior to deployment of fourth entangling projectile 230-5. Deploying the second projectile 540 may comprise deploying a wireless projectile comprising third entangling projectile 230-4 and fourth entangling projectile 230-5, wherein these projectiles 230-4,230-5 remain coupled to each other after both projectiles 230-4,5 are deployed.

In some embodiments, deploying the second projectile 540 may enable the second type of interference to be provided to a target at a remote location. The CEW may be configured to provide a stimulus signal to the remote location after the second projectile has been deployed For example, the second projectile may provide a second electrical signal path between a signal generator and a remote location. A first electrical signal path may be provided via a previously deployed first projectile, launched toward the remote location upon deploying the first projectile 520. Prior to deploying the second projectile 540, an electrically conductive signal path may not exist between a signal generate configured to provide a stimulus signal and a remote location. The CEW may not be configured to provide the second type of interference to the remote location prior to the second projectile being deployed. The second projectile may complete a circuit between the CEW and a target at the remote location. The CEW may lack a return signal path by which a stimulus signal may be conducted to provide electrical interference prior to deployment of the second projectile. The second projectile may be configured to provide a portion or output signal of the stimulus signal to the remote location.

In embodiments, a first electric charge may be coupled to the first projectile and second electric charge may be coupled to the second projectile for remote delivery of the stimulus signal. The first electric charge may comprise a high or positive charge and the second electric charge may comprise a low or negative charge. Alternately, the second electric charge may comprise a high or positive charge and the first electric charge may comprise a low or negative charge. A current of the stimulus signal may flow through the target in accordance with a voltage difference between the first electric charge and the second electric charge. In embodiments, each of the first and second projectiles and/or tether(s) coupled thereto may comprise a single conductive electrical signal path. Accordingly, each of the first projectile and the second projectile lack the capability to couple both the first electric charge and the second electric charge to a target at remote location. As such, deployment of both the first and second projectiles may be necessary to remotely delivery the second type of interference according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

In embodiments, the second projectile deployed upon deploying the second projectile 540 may establish a complete circuit between a target at a remote location and other components of CEW. The established complete circuit may include the first projectile previously deployed. For example, and with brief reference to FIG. 2B, first tether 232-1, first entangling projectile 230-2, a target at remote location 260, direct contact projectile 230-2, and second tether 232-2 may provide a complete circuit between a housing of a handle portion of CEW 200 and the target by which a stimulus signal may be delivered. Alternately or additionally, and with brief reference to FIG. 2C, first entangling projectile 230-2, a target at remote location 260, second entangling projectile 230-3, and third tether 232-2 may provide a complete circuit between a housing of a handle portion of CEW 200 and the target by which the stimulus signal may be delivered. The complete circuit may be further provided between the target and signal generator 220 via selector circuit 250 according to various aspects of the present disclosure and with brief reference to FIG, 2A-2C.

In some embodiments, deploying the second projectile 540 may be optional. The electrical coupling necessary to provide a stimulus signal to a target at a remote location may have been previously provided. The second type of interference may be provided via a previously deployed projectile. For example, a first projectile deployed in accordance with deploying the first projectile 520 may comprise both first and second electrical signal paths over which a stimulus signal may be delivered to a target. For example, entangling projectile 300 with brief reference to FIG. 3 may provide first and second signal paths such that another projectile is unnecessary to provide a stimulus signal associated with a second type of interference.

In embodiments, a stimulus signal may be provided. Method 500 may comprise providing a stimulus signal 550. The second type of interference may be provided in accordance with the stimulus signal.

In embodiments, providing a stimulus signal 550 may comprise providing a control signal. The control signal may cause a signal generator to generate the stimulus signal. For example, processing circuit 110 may directly provide a control signal to signal generator 120 to cause signal generator 120 generate the stimulus signal. The control signal may be alternately or additionally be provided to a selector circuit. For example, the control signal may be provided to selector circuit 150, 250, and/or 450 to cause electrical signal paths to be closed between a signal generator and the first projectile and the second projectile.

In some embodiments, the control signal may be provided wirelessly. For example, and with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2D, the control signal may be provided via communication circuit 170 or 270. The control signal may be provided to a wireless projectile. For example, control signal may be provided to a wireless projectile 300 and/or a wireless projectile comprising third entangling projectile 230-4 and fourth entangling projectile 230-5 with brief reference to FIG. 2D and 3. The control signal, upon receipt by the wireless projectile, may cause a stimulus signal to be provided via a signal generator integrated with the wireless projectile. For example, communication circuit 370 may receive the control signal. Responsive to the control signal, communication circuit 370 may control signal generator 320. In turn, and responsive to control and/or a control signal from communication circuit 370, signal generator 320 may provide a first portion of the stimulus signal via first signal path 342-1 and a second portion of the stimulus signal via second signal path 342-2.

In some embodiments, one or more components of a CEW may be operated to prevent a stimulus signal from being delivered prior to providing the stimulus signal 550. For example, a selector circuit may be configured to decouple the first and/or second projectile from a signal generator. Alternately or additionally, a signal generator may be disabled and/or otherwise controlled by a processing circuit to not (e.g., prevent, discontinue, etc.) provide a stimulus signal. Upon the deploying the second projectile 540 to a target at remote location, a stimulus signal may be coupled to the target upon generation of the stimulus signal to provide the second type of interference.

In some embodiments, providing a stimulus signal may comprise receiving a third activation signal. The third activation signal may indicate that the second type of interference should be provided. A first type of interference may be provided via first and second projectiles previously deployed. For example, each of first entangling projectile 230-1 and second entangling projectile 230-3 may provide amounts of a first type of interference to a target at a remote location. In some situations, these amounts may be sufficient to de-escalate a situation, such that the second type of interference may not be necessary. In such embodiments, the stimulus signal may be provided upon subsequent receipt of a third activation signal, thereby enabling the second type of interference to be selectively provided. In other embodiments, the stimulus signal may be automatically provided responsive to receiving the second activation signal 530.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a conducted electrical weapon including: a signal generator configured to provide a stimulus signal; an entangling projectile configured to provide mechanical interference at a remote location; and a second projectile, wherein the signal generator is coupled to the entangling projectile and the second projectile to provide the stimulus signal via the entangling projectile and the second projectile.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a conducted electrical weapon, further including a control interface, wherein the entangling projectile is deployed toward the remote location responsive to a first activation signal received via the control interface and the second projectile is deployed toward the remote location responsive to a second activation signal received via the control interface, and wherein the second activation signal is different from the first activation signal.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a conducted electrical weapon, further including a selector circuit, wherein the selector circuit selectively couples the stimulus signal to the entangling projectile after the second projectile is deployed.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a conducted electrical weapon, wherein the entangling projectile includes a tethered entangling projectile.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a conducted electrical weapon, wherein the second projectile includes a second entangling projectile.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a conducted electrical weapon, wherein the second projectile includes a direct contact projectile.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a conducted electrical weapon, wherein the second projectile is tethered to the entangling projectile.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a conducted electrical weapon, wherein the entangling projectile includes two weighted portions and the second projectile includes a single weighted portion.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a conducted electrical weapon, further including a housing that extends from a grip end to a distal end, wherein the entangling projectile is deployed from the grip end and the second projectile is deployed from the distal end.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a conducted electrical weapon, wherein the entangling projectile is deployed in a first direction from a housing of the conducted electrical weapon and the second projectile is deployed in a second direction from the housing different from the first direction.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a conducted electrical weapon, wherein the signal generator is configured to provide the stimulus signal by providing a first output signal including a first electric potential and a second output signal including a second electric potential different from the first electric potential, and wherein the entangling projectile is coupled to the first output signal and the second projectile is coupled to the second output signal.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method performed by a conducted electrical weapon to provide different types of interference at a remote location, the method including: deploying, from the conducted electrical weapon, an entangling projectile toward the remote location to provide a first type of interference; receiving an activation signal after the entangling projectile is deployed; and responsive to the activation signal, providing a second type of interference, wherein providing the second type of interference includes providing a stimulus signal via the entangling projectile.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein providing the second type of interference includes deploying a second projectile toward the remote location, wherein the stimulus signal is provided via the entangling projectile and the second projectile.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein deploying the second projectile includes deploying a second entangling projectile.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein the second entangling projectile is tethered to the entangling projectile.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein the second projectile includes a type of projectile different from the entangling projectile.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein the entangling projectile includes a wireless projectile and providing the second type of interference includes: transmitting a control signal from a first communication circuit integrated in a handle of the conducted electrical weapon to a second communication circuit integrated in the wireless projectile; and responsive to reception of the control signal at the second communication circuit, generating the stimulus signal by a signal generator integrated in the wireless projectile.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system for providing different types of interference at a remote location, the system including: a plurality of deployment units, each deployment unit of the plurality of deployment units including a respective projectile and at least one deployment unit of the plurality of deployment units including an entangling projectile; a signal generator configured to generate a stimulus signal; a control interface; and a processing circuit in communication with the signal generator and the control interface, the processing circuit configured to perform operations including: receiving a first activation signal via the control interface; responsive to the first activation signal, deploying the entangling projectile; receiving a second activation signal via the control interface; responsive to the second activation signal, deploying a second projectile of the plurality of projectiles; and after the entangling projectile is deployed and the second projectile is deployed, providing the stimulus signal via the entangling projectile and the second projectile.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the second projectile includes a tether and electrode.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the entangling projectile includes a first weighted portion, a second weighted portion, a first tether interconnecting the first weighted portion and the second weighted portion, and a second tether interconnecting a deployment unit of the plurality of deployment units from which the entangling projectile was deployed and at least one of the first weighted portion, the second weighted portion, and the first tether.

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described herein with regard to specific embodiments. Furthermore, the connecting lines shown in the various figures contained herein are intended to represent exemplary functional relationships and/or physical couplings between the various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may be present in a practical system. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of the disclosures. The scope of the disclosure is accordingly to be limited by nothing other than the appended claims and their legal equivalents, in which reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless explicitly so stated, but rather “one or more.” Moreover, where a phrase similar to “at least one of A, B, or C” is used in the claims, it is intended that the phrase be interpreted to mean that A alone may be present in an embodiment, B alone may be present in an embodiment, C alone may be present in an embodiment, or that any combination of the elements A, B, and C may be present in a single embodiment; for example, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C.

Systems, methods, and apparatus are provided herein. In the detailed description herein, references to “various embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. After reading the description, it will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art(s) how to implement the disclosure in alternative embodiments. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element is intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for.” As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

	Number	Date	Country
Parent	PCT/US2023/026805	Jun 2023	WO
Child	19008378		US

CONDUCTED ELECTRICAL WEAPON WITH ENTANGLING PROJECTILE

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