CONFORMAL AUTOMATED WRIST RESTRAINT AND METHOD OF USE

Abstract

An automated wrist restraint system providing a safe and simple means to immobilize a suspect. A conformal flexible band is employed in a loop configuration, to allow, in the open position, the entry of the largest sized hand encountered in the field. In the closed position the band conforms to the geometry of the wrist to minimize contact forces and prevent wrist injury. Additionally, a microprocessor, controlled servomechanism opens, closes and slackens the band to further prevent wrist injury. A simply activated, holster worn, radio transmitter allows the operator to remotely activate the system, while maintaining a safe distance from the suspect. Among the many possibilities contemplated, the system may be fitted to a law enforcement vehicle, or a robot.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to automated means of temporarily restraining a person and methods of applying such means.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The restraining of a person by use of a manually applied restraint device, such as a handcuff or manacle, is well known. These restraint devices are used, for instance by a law officer, in order to render a suspect harmless. These restraint devices and method of application have inherent deficiencies. They require the officer to have his hands free (of weapons, searchlight, etc.) in order to successfully apply the restraint device. During this time, the officer's attention must be focused on the task and taken away from other activities, such as monitoring and controlling other suspects at the scene. Additionally, the close proximity of the officer to the suspect, gives the suspect the opportunity to make contact with the officer to inflict injury.

An appendage restraint device has been disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,545,237 by Thompson. This device uses conventionally shaped arcuate, metal manacles that are mechanically positioned in an opened and closed state by an electric motor, gear, and clutch mechanism. In the closed position, the manacles contact the suspect's wrists and apply a constant compression force. This is not a currently approved method of restraint, due to possible wrist injury.

Further, the manacles are operated by switches located near the manacles. Although this distance provides some protection from assault, it restricts the proper positioning and movement of the officer, which increases the risk for assault by the suspect or may facilitate his escape. This restraint device is described as being mounted to the outside of a police vehicle, where it is unprotected with respect to environmental contaminants. Ingress of dirt, water, snow or ice would thus impede its operation. Additionally, the arcuate manacles do not readily lend themselves to being covered by a protective bellows or boot.

Another appendage restraint system, disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,000,439 by DiDimenico, provides for a manacle closed by magnetic attraction. That magnetic closure means introduces several distinct disadvantages. The magnetic forces are relatively weak in the initial closing position (pole pieces are far apart) and produce an extremely high closing force in the closed position. This force would be sufficient to cause wrist injury. Additionally, the fixed wrist aperture width would not restrain the smallest hand, when dimensioned to allow the passage of the largest hand that would be encountered in the field. In some instances, continuous contact with the wrist would be made and this would be in violation of commonly accepted handcuffing safety protocol. This restraint mechanism is also slated to be affixed to an outside of a vehicle and exposed to environmental contaminants. Its structure does not readily allow the use of a protective covering.

A bladder system and inflation means embodiment is also contemplated to alleviate some of these problems, in that the height and width dimensions of the aperture are now adjustable, but contact with the wrist must still be made and maintained in order to provide restraint. Additionally, the fluid filled bladders do not provide sufficient rigidity in the pullout direction, to prevent escape. A radio transmitter link is an improvement to the Thompson patent for obvious reasons. It is, however, unnecessarily complex with a plurality of control buttons, thus making it difficult and distracting to operate effectively, by the officer in the field.

Further, the restraint system described by DiDimenico, as there is no fault detection inherent in the design, requires a direct monitoring and action by the operator or officer, who is typically at a remote location. He thus is unable, in most circumstances, to carefully monitor each stage of the restraint activity. A fault condition may occur during opening or closing of the restraint and remedial action, by the operator may, be delayed or not occur, which may be injurious to the suspect.

In view of the foregoing, it is clear that there is still a need to provide an improved wrist restraint device, which can restrain and release an individual's wrists of various sizes, without injury, with minimal operator interaction, with adaptability to various restraint, and release methods and maintain its functionality in harsh environments.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One or more embodiments of the present claimed invention comprises several components to accomplish a, safe, easy to use, adaptable and, environmentally protected, automated wrist restraint. One component is an electromechanical mechanism that provides noninjurious restraint to wrists of various sizes, typically of human beings, encountered in the field. More than one such mechanism may be employed in the restraint system, to restrain multiple wrists. Electronic controls are included comprising a microprocessor and a regulated electric power supply, which provide a controlled opening and closing of said restraint mechanism, to prevent injury. A radio receiver, activated by an easy to use portable transmitter, is connected to the system to provide remote activation with minimal operator interaction. Bellows, boots, an housing, and an enclosure are included to prevent the deleterious effects of environmental contamination on the various internal components.

As used herein, the term “conformal” means a surface contour created by a low force distortion of the band, in response to contact with the wrist's peripheral geometry. As used herein, such terms as “retracted, wound, and closed” are used to indicate a state of the conformal band, when causing restraint. As used herein, such terms as “extended, unwound, and opened” are used to indicate a state of the conformal band, when not causing restraint. As used herein, the term “longitudinal”, refers to a direction parallel to a length of the band. As used herein, the term “transverse”, refers to a direction parallel to a width of the band. As used herein the term “normal”, refers to a direction parallel to a thickness of the band. As used herein, the phrase law officer is used to denote the operator of the restraint device, in some circumstances. The operator may also be referred to as an officer, meaning any official. As used herein, the term “suspect” is used to describe a human being who is to be restrained. In at least one embodiment of a restraint and release method and/or apparatus, multiple suspects may be restrained. As used herein, the term “loop” is used to describe the open space formed and bounded by the portion of a band, external to the restraint device, which is arched, between the wrist receiving saddle's wrist contacting surfaces. The position, motion and speed of a loop is that of the arched band portion of said loop.

It is understood that the restraint of a wrist is accomplished by the fact that the wrist of a suspect has a smaller characteristic diameter than the hand of that suspect. In the preferred embodiments of the present invention, a flexible band, is employed to surround and restrain the wrist of a suspect. The use of such a flexible band, allows a loop to be created of a diameter necessary to pass the largest hand, with the ability to reduce the loop diameter to prevent removal of the smallest hand, encountered in the field. Another advantage of the band is that it is inherently flexible (conformal) in the normal direction, while relatively inflexible in the transverse (pullout) direction, thus preventing unwanted removal of the wrist. An electric motor driven reel subassembly is designed to create a loop of varying diameters of said band, as well as, provide a compact storage of said band. Additionally, the reel's rotary angular position is absolutely encoded to provide feedback, to a microprocessor, to achieve the required loop diameters during operation. The microprocessor and program determine the loop's fully opened, fully closed and intermediate (slack) positions.

Another aspect of one or more embodiments of the claimed invention is the elimination of wrist injury. This may be accomplished by several means. First, is the inherent conformal nature of the band. During operation, the band is retracted, until the loop contacts the wrist. The band conforms to the particular wrist shape, including any interfering objects, such as a wrist watch. This conformation distributes the closing force, uniformly, and eliminates force concentrations and pinch points, which could cause wrist injury. In conjunction with this effect, the controlled limitation of motor drive torque, limits tightening forces, so they are noninjurious to the suspect.

Yet another means employed by one or more embodiments of the claimed invention, to eliminate wrist injury, is real time sensing of the moment of impingement of the loop against the wrist. Such sensing is achieved by monitoring the angular position of the reel subassembly and detecting a “low reel speed” condition. This occurs when the tightening force, around the wrist, is near the controlled limit of the driving motor torque. When “low reel speed” is detected, by the microprocessor, a reverse signal is applied to the motor, subsequently reversing the reel direction and increasing the loop diameter a preset amount (slack), such that the loop is not in intimate contact with the wrist.

A further advantage of flexible bands for use in one or more embodiments of the present invention is that it readily allows the use of a protective bellows and boot, thus rendering the entire mechanism water resistant and easily cleared of mud, snow, or ice.

Yet another aspect of one or more embodiments of the claimed invention is a radio transmitter, which may be small, portable and may have one system control button, which is depressed by an operator, as each step in a restraint and release method, in accordance with one or more embodiments is taken. A simple control method in accordance with one or more embodiments allows complete operator's attention to be paid to the suspect, as well as, allowing defensive and offensive enforcement devices (weapons, searchlight) to be operated concurrently.

Yet another aspect of one or more embodiments of the claimed invention is an apparatus with a readily adaptable physical configuration and compact design, such that it can be mounted on and utilized with a robot, such as a law enforcement robot or military automated guided vehicle. It is currently known that a robot can be used for remote surveillance, communication and can also deploy lethal and non-lethal weapons. Presently, however, when a suspect is to be restrained, previously protected personnel are typically used to apply standard handcuffs, exposing them to the dangers of such activities, as mentioned above.

Yet another aspect of one or more embodimetns of the claimed invention is the use of a microprocessor to control and monitor the restraint and release of a suspect or suspects. This allows a restraint device of one or more embodiments of the claimed invention to be readily adaptable to various restrain and release methods, including restraining and releasing multiple suspects, at the same time or coordinating activities of a restraint device of one or more embodiments to the movement and activities of a robot, all with minimal human operator interaction and distraction. Another advantage of using a microprocessor to control the operation of restraint mechanisms of one or more embodiments of the present invention is that all steps in a restraint and release method in one or more embodiments can be monitored in real time, by the microprocessor, for fault conditions and immediate remedial action can be taken to minimize or prevent injury to a suspect.

Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of one or more embodiments of the claimed invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of one or more embodiments, including one or more preferred embodiments of the claimed invention, along with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front, right side, top perspective view of an outside of a restraint device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, wherein protective bellows and boots, are not shown; and an enclosure cover is opened to reveal internal components;

FIG. 2 is a front, bottom, right side perspective view of part of the restraint device of FIG. 1, and various internal subassemblies of the restraint device of FIG. 1, wherein a housing is shown transparently (by dotted lines), boots covering wrist receiving saddles and one end cap are not shown and a cut through view of one of the bellows to show inlying band is drawn;

FIG. 3 is a detailed perspective view of a reel, flanges, wiper, worm wheel and absolute position encoder for use with the restraint device of FIG. 1

FIG. 4A is a front, elevational view of a wrist receiving saddle for use with the restraint device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4B is a bottom, elevational view indicating a cross section of FIG. 4C, of the wrist receiving saddle of FIG. 4A for use with the restraint device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4C is a cross sectional view of the wrist receiving saddle of FIG. 4A for use with the restraint device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5A is a side, elevational view, indicating a cross sectional view of FIG. 5C, of an emergency release cam, for use with the restraint device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5B is a side, elevational view of the emergency release cam of FIG. 5A for use with the restraint device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5C is a is a partly cross-sectional, front elevational view of the emergency release cam of FIG. 5A for use with the restraint device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5D is a front, perspective view of the emergency release cam of FIG. 5A, mounting plate and mounting plate aperture for use with the restraint device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5E is a rear, perspective view of the emergency release cam of FIG. 5A, mounting plate and mounting plate aperture for use with the restraint device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a side, elevational view of a preferred mounting position of the restraint device of FIG. 1 in a vehicle;

FIG. 6A is an elevational view of a preferred mounting position of the restraint device of FIG. 1 on a vehicle rear door;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an apparatus including a robot and the restraint device of FIG. 1, with the restraint device mounted on the robot; and

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an apparatus for use with a power and control system, method, and apparatus of one or more embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/458,044, filed Nov. 17, 2010, inventor and applicant Burt H. Shulman, is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

The following detailed description of one or more embodiments of the claimed invention, including the preferred embodiment, is intended to provide a full disclosure of the claimed invention to individuals skilled in the art.

FIG. 1 shows a restraint device 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, wherein protective bellows 19a and 19b and their associated bottom portions i.e. boots are not shown, and an enclosure cover 10b is separated from the rest of the restraint device 1 to reveal some internal components of the restraint device 1.

The restraint device 1 includes bands 20a and 20b, each forming a loop. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention each of the bands 20a and 20b may be a timing belt. Timing belts are readily available in many lengths, widths, and tooth profiles. In this case, a timing belt, preferably fiberglass reinforced neoprene, with a width of 0.590 inch and a tooth profile known as “5 mm” (millimeter) Powergrip GT (trademarked) provides the needed characteristics, in at least one embodiment for each of bands 20a and 20b.

The restraint device 1 further includes receiving saddles 26a and 26b. Central locations of the wrist receiving saddles 26a and 26b may be separated by a distance of L1 which may be six to eight inches, which may be the typical separation between centers of wrists for known handcuffs. The restraint device 1, further includes a housing 12. The housing 12 provides mounting surfaces for one or more of electromechanical assemblies therein. In addition to this function, the housing structure 12 provides protection for these assemblies from externally applied forces, and providing an environmental barrier from environmental contaminants. The preferred embodiment for the housing of this structure 12 is an aluminum rectangular tube with a wall thickness which may range from 0.100 to 0.125 inches. The housing 12 may be closed at each end by commercially available plastic end caps, for the end caps 11a and 11b. End caps 11a and 11b, are attached to the housing 12, such that they can only be removed by service personnel.

The restraint device 1, further includes a tubular structure 4 located beneath the housing 12. The tubular structure 4 may be flexible and typically provides an adaptable mounting between the housing 12 and a power control enclosure base 10a. The tubular structure 4 is preferably made from fabric reinforced rubber tube, which provides flexibility to allow possible movement of a human being's suspect's arms and wrists, during restraint and sufficient strength to prevent the housing 12 from being separated from the power control enclosure base 10a, by a human suspect

Included in the preferred embodiment of the restraint device 1 and located beneath the tubular structure 4, is a power control enclosure 10 in FIG. 1 which includes 10a and 10b, which may be clamshell shaped and which typically comprises a base portion 10a and a cover portion 10b. Said enclosure 10 provides protection for various electronic components mounted therein, from environmental contamination and external forces. The base portion 10a, also provides a mounting surface for the tubular structure 4, and provides a perpendicular mounting surface used to mount the restraint device 1 to a flat inner door panel replacement in, for instance, a police vehicle or automobile, such as vehicle 600 shown in FIG. 6. The structural strength of a clamshell shape for use for enclosure 10, when made preferably from about 0.125 inch thickness aluminum, is sufficient to maintain the attachment of the restraint device 1, to a vehicle door of an automobile, such as automobile or vehicle 600 in FIG. 6, under the external forces that may be imposed on it, by a suspect. A wire gland 101, shown in FIG. 1, is located on and penetrates through the enclosure base portion 10a, such that it can convey the various electrical wires and cables from the restraint device 1 into the interior of the rear door, of the vehicle 600, where said cables and wires may connect to the vehicle's electrical system. Another embodiment may provide an alternate mounting means and locate said enclosure and its internal components remotely from the housing 12.

The restraint device 1 further include a receiver 5, which may be a radio frequency (RF) radio receiver, mounted to the housing base portion 10a. The receiver 5 is used to link the restraint device 1 to a transmitter 9. The receiver 5, may be electrically connected to a radio antennae (not shown), which is typically mounted outside the power control enclosure 10 and situated for suitable reception of an RF control signal or other type of control signal such as optical, or sonic, from a transmitter 9.

The restraint device 1 further includes the transmitter 9, which may be a radio frequency (RF) radio transmitter, wherein the transmitter 9 may be a remote transmitter control which is activated by a control button 9a. Said transmitter 9 may be worn and operated by, for instance a law officer. The combination of said transmitter 9 and said receiver 5 provides a useful communication range of preferably, at least fifty feet.

The restraint device 1 further includes an audible alarm device 6. The audible alarm device 6, is typically controlled by and in communication with a microprocessor 8, and is provided to emit an audible confirmation, to a human operator, that the restraint device 1 is performing a restraint operation, a release operation or is malfunctioning, when a visual determination is not available.

The restraint device 1, of FIG. 1, further includes a power supply 7, mounted to the housing base portion 10a, that supplies a regulated voltage and limited current to drive motors 13a and 13b, shown in FIG. 2, for bidirectional motion of the motors 13a and 13b. The operation of the power supply 7 is typically controlled by the microprocessor 8.

The restraint device 1 further includes the computer processor or computer microprocessor 8, mounted to the housing base portion 10a. The microprocessor 8 may include a computer memory. The computer memory of the microprocessor 8 may include a stored computer program, which is executed by the microprocessor 8. In operation, when a momentary control signal, such as an RF control signal, from the transmitter 9, is received by the receiver 5, the microprocessor 8 is temporarily powered and program execution begins, latching power on from power supply 7, to the various circuits. In at least one embodiment, receiver 5 may be the only constantly powered component in the restraint device 1, so that quiescent power is kept to a low value of twenty milliamps, for the entire restraint device 1, to preserve a vehicle battery of an automobile, when the restraint device 1 is not in use. The restraint device 1, may be powered by power supply 7 which may be a vehicle or automobile battery, such as a battery of vehicle 600 of FIG. 6.

FIG. 2 shows part of the restraint device 1, with housing 12, shown as a transparent component (dotted lines), so that various inner components can be seen. Referring to FIG. 2, the restraint device 1, includes the motor 13a, the motor 13b, a tongued drive shaft 14a (for motor 13a, and there is also a tongued drive shaft for motor 13b, not shown), a worm 15a, a worm 15b, a bushing 16a, a bushing 16b, a worm wheel 17b (for reel 24b, and there is also a worm wheel 17a, not shown, for reel 24a), an idler roller 18a, an idler roller 18b, an axle 58a, an axle 58b, an axle 54a, an axle 54b, a bellows 19a (shown in part), a bellows 19b (shown cut through), a mounting plate 21, an emergency release cam 22, with a recess 22a, a chock 23a, a chock 23b, a reel 24a (with a flange 27a shown and opposing flange not shown), a reel 24b (with a flange 27b shown and opposing flange not shown), a grooved drive shaft 25a (for worm 15a and there is also a grooved drive shaft for worm 15b, not shown). FIG. 2 also includes a wrist receiving saddle 26a, a wrist receiving saddle 26b (both shown without their respective boot covering). FIG. 2 also shows, the band 20a, and the band 20b. In FIG. 2, the end cap 11b is not shown to reveal a front wall 12a and a rear wall 12b of housing 12.

In FIG. 2, the preferred embodiment of the restraint device 1, employs the bands 20a and 20b. In at least one embodiment, each of the bands 20a and 20b are flexible in the normal direction N (conformal), relatively non flexible in the transverse direction T, while providing high breaking strength and low stretch in the longitudinal direction L, shown in FIG. 2. Please note that each of the two bands 20a and 20b are driven and controlled in identical fashion, so that the description, below, pertains to both “sides” of the restraint device 1, whether explicitly stated or not. Band 20a is driven by motor 13a and band 20b is driven by a separate motor 13b, so that the band 20a is driven separately from the band 20b.

In at least one embodiment, it is preferred that motor 13a is a DC (direct current), permanent magnet, carbon brush, motor, having a rated stall torque, of about three in.-oz. at four volts direct current (vdc). The tongued motor drive shaft 14a is typically affixed to the motor shaft 25a and engages with the grooved worm drive shaft 25a. This allows for minor misalignment between these parts. The drive shaft 25a spins in typical flanged bushings 16a, preferably made of Teflon (trademarked) and a second such bushing (not shown) located on the far end of the worm drive shaft 25a. Both the bushings 16a and the second set of bushings on the far end of the worm drive shaft 25a (second set of bushings not shown) receive radial and thrust loads, as the restraint operates. The worm 15a is typically locked to the drive shaft 25a. The worm 15a is preferably stainless steel, forty-eight pitch and has a 3.58 degree lead angle. Such a lead angle, creates a non-backdriveable gear train, to prevent motion, should forces, from the wrist, be applied to the band, in any direction.

The mounting plate 21 holds components parts 13a, 13b, 14a (and drive shaft for motor 13b not shown), 15a, 15b, 16a, 16b and 25a (and drive shaft, for worm 16b, not shown) in alignment and the mounting plate 21 is preferably made of steel. The mounting plate 21 is typically slideably mounted to the rear inner wall 12b of housing 12 by fasteners (not shown) and is mounted so to allow sliding in the vertical (normal, N) directions and minimal sliding in the horizontal (longitudinal) directions. Emergency release cam 22 extends between the walls of the housing 12. One end of cam 22 extends completely through the front housing wall 12a, while the other end of cam 22 rotates in a blind hold (not shown) in the rear wall 12b. The exposed end of the cam 22 has a recess 22a, which is shaped to receive and engage a standard handcuff key.

Emergency release cam 22 slides mounting plate 21 to two vertical positions: an engaged upper vertical position, and a disengaged lower vertical position. When the mounting plate 21 is a the engaged upper vertical position, as shown in FIG. 2, the worms 15a and 15b, the mounting plate 21 carries are properly meshed with their corresponding worm wheels 17a (not shown) and 17b. The worm wheel 17a or 17b rotates when the corresponding motor 13a or 13b rotates the worm 15a or 15b and cannot be rotated when the corresponding motor 13a or 13b, is not rotating. When the mounting plate 21 is in the disengaged lower vertical position, the worm wheel 17a or 17b is not meshed with the worm 15a or 15b and is free to rotate. This is the condition that allows the wrists to be manually released from the restraint device 1, should a malfunction occur.

Referring further to FIG. 2, the worm wheel 17b, preferably bronze, provides a 50:1 speed reduction, when driven by worm 15b. The worm wheel 17b is typically concentrically attached to the reel 24b, and is preferably an aluminum timing belt pulley with a mating tooth profile that matches the bands' tooth profile, as described above. The reel 24a is supported by radial bearings (not shown) and a stainless steel axle 240a, which extends through opposite walls 12a and 12b of the housing 12 (similarly, for reel 24b and axle 240b). One end of band 20a is attached to the circumference of the reel 24a at a location similar or identical to location 38b on reel 24b, shown in FIG. 3. Band 20a is then routed between Teflon (trademarked) idler roller 18a, which is supported by axle 58a (and similarly for band 20b, Teflon (trademarked) roller 18b and axle 58b) and the toothed circumference of the reel 24a. The idler roller 18a, in conjunction with the smooth side of band 20a allows the band 20a to be wound around the circumference of the reel 24a, when the reel 24a is driven, in a counterclockwise direction. More importantly, when unwinding band 20a, the arrangement of the idler roller 18a in contact with the smooth side of band 20a, and the toothed reel 24a in engagement with the toothed side of band 20a, provides sufficient directional stability and no relative slippage between the band and it's mating reel, as to extend band 20a and thus enlarge the loopeven under encountered resisting forces.

The band 20a, after passing the idler roller 18a, is routed through an aperture (not shown) in the housing 12 and through a mating aperture 402 in wrist receiving saddle portion 2c in the wrist receiving saddle member 26a, said wrist receiving saddle being shown, in detail, in FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C. The band 20a then is looped back to the wrist receiving saddle portion 2a, where the band 20a enters through aperture 401 and an aperture, in housing 12 (not shown) and is attached to the upper inner wall of the housing 12 by the chock 23a. The chock 23a is preferably steel and has a linear matching tooth profile to create a mounting, which is secure even at the band 20a (or 20b) breaking strength of one thousand lbsf (pounds of force).

The band 20a is protected from the environment by bellows 19a, shown in part, in FIG. 2. The bellows 19a is preferably neoprene with a wall thickness of preferably 0.018 inch. The configuration of the bellows 19a in conjunction with wall thickness and material selection, provides an environmental barrier, without introducing excessive resistance, to motion, during loop opening and closing, even when operating at thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit (F). The bellows 19a also has a boot portion, (not shown), which completely covers the wrist receiving saddle member 26a for optimal environmental contaminant resistance. Similarly, the bellows 19b has a boot portion (not shown), which completely covers the wrist receiving saddle member 26b.

FIG. 3 shows the reel 24b, the worm wheel 17b, an absolute position encoder 36b, reel flanges 27b and 33b, a band attachment hole 38b, and fasteners 31b and 32b, for use with the restraint device 1. The reel 24b includes a wiper 37b, which projects from reel 24b and has an angular location B1. The reel 24a would also include a worm wheel, similar to or identical to 17b, an encoder similar to or identical to 36b, and a wiper similar or identical to 37b, reel flanges similar to or identical to 27b and 33b, a band attachment hole similar or identical to 38b, and fasteners similar or identical to 31b and 32b. There would be a corresponding angular location of the wiper in reel 24a, similar or identical to angle B1 in reel 24b. The angle B1 is an angle between lines L2 and L3 and angle B1 is chosen so that when the band 20b is in a fully retracted position (wrapped around reel 24b), the wiper 37b contacts the absolute encoder 36b, such that the output of said encoder 36b is at a maximum (or minimum) value. A similar or identical configuration applies to band 20a, reel 24a, absolute encoder 36a and wiper 37a.

Further, referring to FIG. 3, absolute encoder 36b is arranged parallel to the front face of reel 24b and is attached to the front inner wall 12a of housing 12. The wiper 37b, attached to the reel 24b, mechanically contacts the absolute encoder 36b and thus the angular position of the reel 24b is converted to a varying resistance and can thus be interpreted by the microprocessor 8, shown in FIG. 8. The absolute encoder 36b, preferably a membrane potentiometer and its associated wiper 37b, are supplied by Hoffmann + Krippner (trademarked).

Referring now to FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C, the portions 2a, 2b and 2c, may form one wrist receiving saddle 26a. Portion 2a is separated from portion 2c by a distance D1, preferably two inches. The combination of portions similar or identical to 2a, 2b and 2c, and to the distance D1 may form a second wrist receiving saddle structure 26b. The wrist receiving saddle 26a thus formed provides a visual and tactile target for the suspect, in order to aid him in placing his wrists in a proper and safe position for restraint. Portion 2b provides such a target, as flat surface 404, upon which, the suspect's places the bottom of his wrist. In addition, the wrist receiving saddle structure 26a thus formed provides continued accurate lateral positioning for various sized wrists during restraint. The wrist receiving saddle 26a accomplishes this by employing side surfaces 403 and 405. Side 403 is canted outward, from the horizontal, at an angle A2, preferably about 117 degrees. Side 405 is canted outward, from the horizontal, at an angle A3, preferably about 104 degrees. In at least one embodiment these angular dimensions are critical to provide the proper comfort for human wrists of various sizes. Wrist receiving saddle 26b is a mirrored construction of wrist receiving saddle 26a.

The wrist receiving saddle 26a, includes a band passageway 401. Said passageway allows access to the interior of housing 12 (in conjunction with a mating aperture in housing 12, not shown) for the fixed end of band 20a. Said passageway is canted at angle A1, preferably about 54 degrees. The wrist receiving saddle 26a, includes band passageway 402. Said passageway is canted at angle A4, preferably about 78 degrees. Said passageway allows access to the interior of housing 12 (in conjunction with a mating aperture in housing 12, not shown) for the moving end of band 20a. Said outwardly canted passageways create a path between the said passageways for band 20a, such that said band forms a relatively circular loop shape, when in the extended position. The wrist receiving saddle 26b would also include band passageways similar or identical to 401 and 402 and mounting hole pattern similar or identical to mounting hole pattern 406. The wrist receiving saddles (such as the combination of portions 2a, 2b, 2c) are constructed from a rigid material, preferably aluminum.

Now referring to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, and 5E, showing various views of the emergency release cam 22, the cam 22 travels through an aperture in mounting plate 21, which causes the mounting plate 21 to have a certain upper vertical position (engaged upper vertical position), within the housing 12 (not shown), when the mounting plate aperture upper wall 22a is supported by cam lobe 52. When a standard handcuff key is inserted into recess 22a and the cam 22 is turned about sixty degrees, clockwise by the operator, the supporting cam lobe 52 moves, so it no longer supports the mounting plate 21. Mounting plate 21, is then forced to move to a certain lower vertical position (disengaged lower vertical position), by contact with pin 51, which pushes downward, on the mounting plate aperture lower wall 21b.

FIG. 6 shows an apparatus 600, including a typical police vehicle 601, and the restraint device 1 mounted to a rear door 603 of the vehicle 601, preferably located on the inside of said door, as shown in FIG. 6A. The mounting position of the restraint device 1, inside the vehicle 601, protects the restraint device 1 from environmental contaminants such as water snow, ice and mud. In addition, the temperature stability maintained inside the operating vehicle 601, facilitates the operation of the restraint device 1, during adverse temperature conditions outside the vehicle 601. Moreover, the mounting position shown in FIG. 6, locates the bands 20a and 20b of the restraint device 1, so they are accessible through the opened (electrically operated) vehicle window 602 and are at a height H1, preferably about thirty-three to thirty-seven inches, which facilitates entry of the suspect's wrists.

FIG. 6A, shows a view, from inside the vehicle, of an apparatus 600, including a typical police vehicle 601, and with the restraint device 1 mounted to the rear door 603, where a portion of said inside rear door, such as a fascia portion of a typical known automobile door, has been replaced by a flat replacement panel 604. The replacement panel 604 is preferably a commercially available steel panel produced by Havis Shields Equipment Corp. (trademarked).

FIG. 7, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, shows an apparatus 200 including a robot, robotic platform or automated guided vehicle 202, with the restraint device 1 attached to a stalk member or post 204 which is fixed to the robot 202. The restraint device 1 has been shown with the power and control enclosure 10 (and internal components, al shown in FIG. 1) incorporated within the robot control system 208 in FIG. 7, but may be as previously described with reference to FIGS. 1-6. The stalk member 204 holds the restraint device 1 at a proper height for restraining the wrists of a suspect, who is in a standing position. For a typical adult suspect, the height H2, shown in FIG. 7 from a ground surface 206 may be preferably thirty-three to thirty-seven inches. These dimensions are considered critical in at least one embodiment of the present invention to provide a proper height for the restraint device 1. The stalk member or post 204 may be detachable from the robot 202 to allow the robot 202 to be easily transported. The electronic power and control system, for apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 8, not including the transmitter 9, may be integrated into the robot's existing systems. Typically, the transmitter 9 would be separate from the robot 202 and used to operate the restraint device 1 remotely. The transmitter 9 may not be considered part of the restraint device 1, in one or more embodiments, but rather may be considered to be controlling the restraint device 1. In other embodiments the transmitter 9 may be described as being part of the restraint device 1. In another embodiment, remote operation of the restraint device 1 may be implemented through the robot's existing communications link.

FIG. 8. is a block diagram of an apparatus 100 for use with a power and control system, apparatus, and method of one or more embodiments of the present invention. The apparatus 100 includes the receiver 5, the alarm device 6, the power supply 7, the processor or microprocessor 8, the transmitter 9, control button 9a, the motors 13a and 13b, the encoders 36a and 36b, a window relay 29, and a window switch 30. The microprocessor 8 may be electrically connected to, may communicate with, and may control receiver 5, transmitter 9, window switch 30, window relay 29, alarm 6, power supply 7, motors 13a and 13b, and encoders 36a and 36b. All actions of the microprocessor 8 are executed by a computer program, which resides in the microprocessor's memory, as is typical.

A restraint and release method of one or more embodiments of the present invention, such as a preferred embodiment starts, when a first control signal, such as a first RF transmission control signal is sent, such as by an operator depressing control button 9a. The control signal typically travels through the airwaves and is received by receiver 5 (typically as an RF received signal which may be the transmitted signal modified by noise and/or clutter). The received signal may be used by the microprocessor 8 to cause power to be applied to the microprocessor 8 from the power supply 7. In at least one embodiment, the microprocessor 8 is programmed by a computer program, to activate vehicle window relay 29 in response to the received control signal, opening an electrically operated vehicle window 602 (shown in FIG. 6). A state of “window open” is detected by, preferably a, magnetic switch 30, which communicates this to microprocessor 8 by another signal.

The microprocessor 8, is programmed by a computer program to send a signal to the power supply 7 to apply power to one motor, such as one of motors 13a or 13b to open the associated loop of either band 20a or 20b, in response to the signal from the magnetic switch 30. Loop position of either band 20a or 20b is monitored by the microprocessor 8 and when the particular loop is fully opened, as detected by one or more signals received by the microprocessor 8, power to the motors 13 or 13b is stopped by the microprocessor 8. The microprocessor 8 then opens the other loop (of either 20a or 20b), in a similar fashion. The microprocessor 8 then waits for the next control signal to be received by the receiver 5. During this wait time, while bands 20a and 20b are in an open state as shown in which FIG. 6A, the officer commands the suspect to “place his hands through the loops of bands 20a and 20b, wrists down”. He then depresses control button 9a, which by way of a similar chain of events, as described above, closes both loops of bands 20a and 20b, virtually simultaneously.

However, note that each band 20a and 20b is controlled and retracted separately by separate motors 13a and 13b. In order to accomplish virtually “simultaneous” closure of bands 20a and 20b, the microprocessor 8, is programmed to command the power supply 7 to drive both motors 13a and 13b in the closing direction, while monitoring the electrical representation of the loop positions as produced by the absolute encoders 36a and 36b. The loops of bands 20a and 20b continue to close, until each either contacts its respective human suspect wrist or until each reaches a full closed position (no wrist being present in a loop, shown in FIG. 1 for band 20a. During band closure, the microprocessor 8 monitors loop speed which is mathematically determined by the microprocessor 8 by applying a programmed mathematical formal to loop position information provided by absolute encoders 36a and 36b (described above). The mathematical formula may be stored in computer memory of the microprocessor 8 and may be a formula used in known control systems for determining generally the speed of a loop, which typically is proportional to the angular velocity, rotational velocity, or angular speed of the corresponding reel 24a or 24b. When wrist contact is made, the loop speed drops below a programmed threshold value, stored in computer memory of the microprocessor 8, and the microprocessor 8 senses this drop in speed, compares it to a stored threshold value and then power to that motor (of motors 13a and 13b) is stopped by the microprocessor 8. Alternatively, if the particular position encoder (of encoders 26a and 26b) provides a signal or signals to the microprocessor 8 to show the loop of band 20a or 20b to be at full closed position (no wrist present), power is stopped by the microprocessor 8 to that motor (of motors 13a and 13b).

When a loop of band 20a or 20b closes and is stopped from further movement by a wrist, the microprocessor 8 immediately and automatically reverses the corresponding drive motor (of 13a and 13b) at low speed and opens the particular loop a predetermined amount, based on a predetermined value stored in computer memory of the microprocessor. The resulting slack reduces contact forces on the person's wrist to nearly zero. Once the wrists are thus restrained, the next step in this restraint and release method of at least one or more embodiments of the present invention, is releasing the wrists. When the suspect's wrists are to be released from the restraint, the operator depresses control button 9a, which by way of a similar chain of events, as described above, causes the microprocessor 8, to delay activity for a certain specified amount of time, based on a predetermined value stored in computer memory of the microprocessor 8, such as preferably two seconds, in at least one embodiment, allowing the operator time to refocus his attention on the suspect. In this particular restraint and release method, after the delay, the microprocessor 8 is programmed to apply power to one of the motors 13a or 13b, opening the corresponding loop, releasing the suspect's corresponding wrist. During a loop opening step, the microprocessor 8 monitors the position of the band, in a manner similar to that described above and stops power to the corresponding motor, when the loop is fully opened, as shown in FIG. 1 for band 20b The operator is then able to place the free wrist, brought behind the suspect, into a standard handcuff. The operator then depresses control button 9a for the last time in this restraint and release method of at least one or more embodiments of the present invention, which by way of a similar chain of events, as described above, causes microprocessor 8, to respond by similarly delaying activity and then opening the other loop, to release the suspect's other wrist for similar placement into the standard handcuff. After all the above steps are completed, the microprocessor 8, is programmed to close the loops, after a predetermined time, preferably fifteen seconds, which may be determined by a value stored in computer memory of the microprocessor. The microprocessor 8, then depowers itself, to reduce quiescent power requirements.

Each time the officer depresses button 9a and before each step of a restraint and release method performed by the restraint device 1, in at least one embodiment, the microprocessor 8 activates an audible alarm 6 and an audible alert is issued to confirm reception of a control signal from the transmitter 9 received by receiver 5, and indicates impending restraint device 1 action. Additionally, the microprocessor 8, may be programmed to detect various fault conditions during each step in the operation of the restraint device 1 and also to perform fault testing before the initiation of any restraint device 1 action. For instance, loop closure or opening of bands 20a or 20b is normally performed in about five hundred milliseconds. If this time is exceeded, due to a fault, in at least one embodiment, the microprocessor 8 interrupts power to the motors 13a and 13b immediately and activates audible alarm 6, to alert the remotely located operator of a fault, so that he may take immediate remedial action to prevent injury to the suspect.

Many other restraint and release methods may be envisioned, utilizing the programming flexibility and adaptability of the microprocessor 8. Thus, specific embodiments of a conformal automated wrist restraint apparatus and method have been disclosed. It should be apparent, however, to those skilled in the art that many more modifications, besides those already described, are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the disclosure. Moreover, in interpreting the disclosure, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced.

Although the invention has been described by reference to particular illustrative embodiments thereof, many changes and modifications of the invention may become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to include within this patent all such changes and modifications as may reasonably and properly be included within the scope of the present invention's contribution to the art.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising a first motor;a second motor;a first band;a second band;a first housing;wherein the first band is connected to the first motor so that the first band forms a first loop;wherein the second band is connected to the second motor so that the second band forms a second loop;wherein the first motor and the second motor are fixed to the first housing;wherein the first band is connected to the first motor so that the first loop is adaptable to be varied by the first motor without varying the second loop; andwherein second band is connected to the second motor so that the second loop is adaptable to be varied by the second motor without varying the first loop.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a computer processor which is programmed to control the first motor and the second motor.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a transmitter;a receiver;wherein the receiver is fixed to the first housing;wherein receiver communicates with the first motor;and wherein the receiver is configured to receive a first received control signal due to a first transmitted control signal transmitted from the transmitter; andwherein the first motor is configured to be controlled to cause varying of the first loop without varying of the second loop by the first received control signal.

4. The apparatus of claim 3 wherein the receiver is configured to receive a second received control signal due to a second transmitted control signal transmitted from the transmitter; andwherein the second motor is configured to be controlled to cause varying of the second loop without varying of the first loop by the second received control signal

5. The apparatus of claim 3 wherein the transmitter is a radio frequency transmitter; andthe receiver is a radio frequency receiver.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a first reel; anda second reel; andwherein the first band is attached to a first reel, and the second band is attached to a second reel.

7. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a first wrist receiving saddle fixed to the first housing;a second wrist receiving saddle fixed to the first housing;wherein the first wrist receiving saddle and the second wrist receiving saddle are spaced apart along a line;wherein a first end of the first band is inserted through a first end of the first wrist receiving saddle and a second end of the first band is inserted through a second end of the first wrist receiving saddle;wherein a first end of the second band is inserted through a first end of the second wrist receiving saddle and a second end of the second band is inserted through a second end of the second wrist receiving saddle; andwherein the first motor is configured to vary the first loop and the second motor is configured to vary the second loop so that a first wrist of an individual can be inserted into a first space bounded by the first band and the first wrist receiving saddle, while a second wrist of the individual can be inserted into a second space bounded by the second band and the second wrist receiving saddle.

8. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the first reel has a perimeter and a first plurality of teeth on its perimeter;the second reel has a perimeter and a second plurality of teeth on its perimeter;wherein the first band has an interior and a third plurality of teeth on its interior;wherein the second band has an interior and a fourth plurality of teeth on its interior;wherein the first plurality of teeth of the first reel interlock with the third plurality of teeth of the first band;wherein the second plurality of teeth of the first reel interlock with the third plurality of teeth of the first band;and wherein rotation of the first reel in a first direction causes the first loop to extend further beyond the first housing, and rotation of the first reel in a second direction, opposite the first direction, causes the first loop to retract closer to the first housing; andand wherein rotation of the second reel in a third direction causes the second loop to extend further beyond the first housing, and rotation of the second reel in a fourth direction, opposite the third direction, causes the second loop to retract closer to the first housing.

9. The apparatus of claim 6 further comprising a first device for indicating a first angular orientation of the first reel; anda second device fo indicating a second angular orientation of the second reel.

10. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a second housing; anda flexible tube mounting member;wherein the flexible tube mounting member connects the first housing to the second housing.

11. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a device for manually controlling the first loop and the second loop.

12. A method comprising inserting an individual's right wrist into a first space bounded by a first loop and a first wrist receiving saddle of a restraint device;inserting the individual's left wrist into a second space bounded by a second loop and a second wrist receiving saddle of the restraint device;wherein the restraint device comprises: a first motor;a second motor;a first band;a second band;a first housing;wherein the first band is connected to the first motor so that the first band forms the first loop;wherein the second band is connected to the second motor so that the second band forms the second loop;wherein the first motor and the second motor are fixed to the first housing;wherein the first band is connected to the first motor so that the first loop is adaptable to be varied by the first motor without varying the second loop; andwherein second band is connected to the second motor so that the second loop is adaptable to be varied by the second motor without varying the first loop.

13. The method of claim 12 wherein the restraint device further comprises a computer processor which is programmed to control the first motor and the second motor.

14. The method of claim 12 wherein the restraint device further comprises: a transmitter; anda receiver;wherein the receiver is fixed to the first housing;wherein receiver communicates with the first motor;and wherein the receiver is configured to receive a first received control signal due to a first transmitted control signal transmitted from the transmitter; andwherein the first motor is configured to be controlled to cause varying of the first loop without varying of the second loop by the first received control signal.

15. The method of claim 14 wherein the receiver is configured to receive a second received control signal due to a second transmitted control signal transmitted from the transmitter; andwherein the second motor is configured to be controlled to cause varying of the second loop without varying of the first loop by the second received control signal

16. The method of claim 14 wherein the transmitter is a radio frequency transmitter; andthe receiver is a radio frequency receiver.

17. The method of claim 12 wherein the restraint device is further comprised of: a first reel; anda second reel; andwherein the first band is attached to a first reel, and the second band is attached to a second reel.

18. The method of claim 12 wherein the restraint device is further comprised of a first wrist receiving saddle fixed to the first housing;a second wrist receiving saddle fixed to the first housing;wherein the first wrist receiving saddle and the second wrist receiving saddle are spaced apart along a line;wherein a first end of the first band is inserted through a first end of the first wrist receiving saddle and a second end of the first band is inserted through a second end of the first wrist receiving saddle;wherein a first end of the second band is inserted through a first end of the second wrist receiving saddle and a second end of the second band is inserted through a second end of the second wrist receiving saddle; andwherein the first motor is configured to vary the first loop and the second motor is configured to vary the second loop so that a first wrist of an individual can be inserted into a first space bounded by the first band and the first wrist receiving saddle, while a second wrist of the individual can be inserted into a second space bounded by the second band and the second wrist receiving saddle.

19. The method of claim 18 wherein the first reel has a perimeter and a first plurality of teeth on its perimeter;the second reel has a perimeter and a second plurality of teeth on its perimeter;wherein the first band has an interior and a third plurality of teeth on its interior;wherein the second band has an interior and a fourth plurality of teeth on its interior;wherein the first plurality of teeth of the first reel interlock with the third plurality of teeth of the first band;wherein the second plurality of teeth of the first reel interlock with the third plurality of teeth of the first band;and wherein rotation of the first reel in a first direction causes the first loop to extend further beyond the first housing, and rotation of the first reel in a second direction, opposite the first direction, causes the first loop to retract closer to the first housing; andand wherein rotation of the second reel in a third direction causes the second loop to extend further beyond the first housing, and rotation of the second reel in a fourth direction, opposite the third direction, causes the second loop to retract closer to the first housing.

20. The method of claim 18 wherein the restraint device further comprises: a first device for indicating a first angular orientation of the first reel; anda second device fo indicating a second angular orientation of the second reel.

21. The method of claim 12 wherein the restraint device further comprises a second housing; anda flexible tube mounting member;wherein the flexible tube mounting member connects the first housing to the second housing.

22. The method of claim 12 wherein the restraint device further comprises a device for manually controlling the first loop and the second loop.