Nonlethal Or Deterrent Patents (Class 102/502)
  • Patent number: 11835322
    Abstract: The inventive subject matter is directed to systems and apparatuses that are designed to work in cooperation with a firearm such that the firearm can fire a less lethal projectile. Systems can include a mounting device that clips onto a firearm, where that mounting device also include mounting posts. The mounting posts protrude from an end of the mounting device, and the mounting posts are designed to couple with mounting holes on an associated slug. Slugs of the inventive subject matter thus feature mounting holes and a center-bored hole that is designed to capture a bullet that is fired from a firearm that the system is coupled to. When a bullet is captured by a slug, an inelastic collision takes place that causes the slug to leave the firearm at around 20% of the bullet's original speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: Alternative Ballistics Corporation
    Inventors: Christian Ellis, Benjamin Weinrib
  • Patent number: 11566876
    Abstract: The inventive subject matter is directed to systems and apparatuses that are designed to work in cooperation with a firearm such that the firearm can fire a less lethal projectile. Systems can include a mounting device that clips onto a firearm, where that mounting device also include mounting posts. The mounting posts protrude from an end of the mounting device, and the mounting posts are designed to couple with mounting holes on an associated slug. Slugs of the inventive subject matter thus feature mounting holes and a center-bored hole that is designed to capture a bullet that is fired from a firearm that the system is coupled to. When a bullet is captured by a slug, an inelastic collision takes place that causes the slug to leave the firearm at around 20% of the bullet's original speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Assignee: Alternative Ballistic Corporation
    Inventors: Christian Ellis, Benjamin Weinrib
  • Patent number: 11371810
    Abstract: An entangling projectile includes a pair of pellets and a tether connecting the pellets. The pellets each have a head portion and a tail portion. At least one gasket is carried by the head portion of at least one of the pellets. The gasket is operable to provide a sealed interface between the head portion of the at least one pellet and a socket within which the at least one pellet is fired from a launcher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Assignee: Wrap Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Elwood Norris, John Bailey, Jerry Hardy
  • Patent number: 11371811
    Abstract: According to one embodiment an electric shock self-defence cartridge is provided that includes a distal body in which one or more application means is housed, and a proximal body in which a wire is housed. The proximal body includes coupling means and electric connection means for being joined with the electric shock self-defence device. Compression means is arranged between the distal body and the proximal body for keeping the distal body shifted towards a rest position. The application means is housed in the distal body, such that in use, when the distal body is in contact with an assailant, the distal body shifts with respect to the proximal body from the rest position towards an actuation position in which the application means projects from the distal body to be adhered to the assailant's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Inventor: Mircea Chirila
  • Patent number: 11346639
    Abstract: A deployment unit for use with a handle of a conducted electrical weapon (“CEW”). The deployment unit includes wire-tethered electrodes for launching toward a human or animal target for providing a current through the target to impede locomotion of the target. The deployment unit includes a barrier that prior to use with the handle protects the deployment unit from electrostatic discharge. Prior to use of the deployment unit, the barrier may further protect the deployment unit from ingress of dirt and/or moisture into the deployment unit. While the deployment unit is inserted into a handle, the barrier shields conductors of the handle and the deployment unit to facilitate delivery of a launch signal from the handle to the deployment unit to launch the wire-tethered electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: Axon Enterprise, Inc.
    Inventors: Aleksander Petrovic, Albert Lavin, Magne Nerheim, Milan Cerovic
  • Patent number: 11287226
    Abstract: A near-range launcher assembly for at least temporarily detaining a subject includes a primary launcher carrying a first projectile, the first projectile including a pair of pellets and a tether connecting the pellets. A secondary launcher is coupled to the primary launcher, the secondary launcher carrying a second projectile. At least one power source is associated with one or both of the primary and secondary launchers. At least one control system is operable to activate the power source. At least one user input is operable to communicate with the control system to activate the at least one power source to expel one or both of the first projectile and the second projectile from the launchers toward the subject. Each of the primary launcher and the secondary launcher carry an independent power source, such that each of the primary and secondary launchers can be independently initiated by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: Wrap Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Elwood Norris
  • Patent number: 11280576
    Abstract: A rifled barrel having splines. A projectile has at least one inner fin. A method to spin a projectile to render its shell and its fluid to spin at the approximately the same rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Inventor: David Alan Williams
  • Patent number: 11280598
    Abstract: A color marker projectile, which is intended as a non-lethal projectile to mark a hit with color, is located in the projectile itself and is poured over the target on impact. The projectile is launched from a conversion kit (new barrel and bolt) of a real weapon. The color marker projectile includes a front part, a rear part, an inserted element and a color filler. The front part is formed as a semicircular cylindrical part with vertical ribs. The inserted element is positioned to complete the concluded cylindrical part of the front part. The color filler and the inserted element are positioned on the inside of the front part. The color filler is located at the contact point between the front part and the rear part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: AREX PROIZVODNJA ORODIJ, NAPRAV IN STORITVE D.O.O. S̆ENTJERNEJ
    Inventor: Ivan Kralj
  • Patent number: 11231255
    Abstract: A cartridge for coupling to a conducted electrical weapon to launch electrodes toward a target to provide a current through the target to impede locomotion of the target. The cartridge includes a cover that covers a forward portion of the cartridge. The cover may be over molded on the forward portion of the cartridge. The cover includes a frangible portion. The frangible portion may surround the perimeter of a door or be positioned between flaps. The frangible portion may be broken to separate the door from the cover or to disengage the flaps so they can move. The electrode may launch through a door opening or between the flaps to travel toward the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: Axon Enterprise, Inc.
    Inventors: Albert Lavin, Luke Salisbury, Milan Cerovic
  • Patent number: 11187504
    Abstract: A system for a practice electrode (e.g. dart) for a conducted electrical weapon (“CEW”). An officer issued a CEW is required to practice with the CEW in order to maximize its safe and effective use in a stressful situation. Preferably, training is performed using equipment as similar as possible to the equipment an officer uses in the field. Training with a CEW against a live target may be improved, at least from the perspective of the target, by using a practice dart that is similar in weight and flight to a conventional electrode, but that does not pierce target clothing or tissue or deliver a high voltage current through the target. A practice dart may be similar to a conventional electrode but include additional structure (e.g. cap) that prevents piercing. The additional structure and/or a non-conductive filament may reduce a likelihood of or preclude delivery a current through the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: Axon Enterprise, Inc.
    Inventors: Luke A. Salisbury, Michael E. Gish, Kevin Brian Terence Coles
  • Patent number: 10942012
    Abstract: A conducted electrical weapon includes a housing, a laser aiming mechanism, a catapult, and an ejection switch mechanism. The laser aiming mechanism is fixed on the chute of the housing. The catapult is embedded in the housing and the ejection switch mechanism is mounted inside the housing. The catapult includes an elastic clip including a first latch and a second latch. The housing includes a first slot and a second slot. The first latch and the second latch of the elastic clip separately catch the first slot and the second slot of the housing. The ejection switch mechanism includes an ejection switch including a first locating hole and a second locating hole, a first thrust spring, and a second thrust spring. The housing further includes a first locating column and a second locating column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Inventors: Jingbin Sun, Zhan'en Liao, Wenyu Su, Zhuoyue Sun
  • Patent number: 10890419
    Abstract: A near-range launcher assembly for at least temporarily detaining a subject includes a primary launcher carrying a first projectile. The first projectile includes a pair of pellets and a tether connecting the pellets and is capable of at least temporarily detaining a subject. A secondary launcher is coupled to the primary launcher and carries a second projectile that is capable of at least temporarily detaining a subject. A power source is associated with one or both of the primary and secondary launchers. A control system is operably coupled to the at least one power source and is operable to activate the power source. A user input is operably coupled to the at least one control system to communicate with the control system to activate the at least one power source to expel one or both of the first projectile and the second projectile toward the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: Wrap Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Elwood Norris
  • Patent number: 10731950
    Abstract: A projectile round for intercepting an incoming threat to a vehicle or the like is provided. The projectile round may include an explosive layer, which upon detonation, may cause a the fracturing of one or more material layers into one or both of shrapnel and chaff while simultaneously causing the distortion and/or destruction of a piezoelectric material contained within the projectile round. The distortion and/or destruction of this piezoelectric material may further cause the release of an electromagnetic pulse. The projectile round may be part of a countermeasure system against guided munition threats, including those posed by man-portable air defense systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Assignee: BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration Inc.
    Inventor: Michael N. Mercier
  • Patent number: 10359260
    Abstract: A conducted electrical weapon (“CEW”) impedes locomotion of a human or animal target by providing a stimulus signal through the target via one or more electrodes. The CEW includes a propulsion system. The propulsion system provides a force that launches the one or more electrodes toward the target to deliver the stimulus signal. The propulsion system includes a canister of pressurized gas, an anvil, and a manifold. The canister releases the pressurized gas. The manifold delivers the pressurized gas to the electrodes to launch the electrodes. The manifold may be formed of flexible material. The manifold may be formed as a single piece. A single-piece manifold reduces loss of pressurized air. The housing of the deployment unit supports the manifold against structural failure of the manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2019
    Assignee: AXON ENTERPRISE, INC.
    Inventors: Luke Salisbury, Albert Lavin, Milan Cerovic, Magne Nerheim
  • Patent number: 10143277
    Abstract: The self defense umbrella forms a defensive shield that blocks and deflects offensive projectiles directed at a person using the self defense umbrella. The self defense umbrella comprises a shield and a control system. The shield forms a physical barrier that blocks and deflects offensive projectiles directed at the person using the self defense umbrella. The control system: 1) captures images of the environment of the person using the self defense umbrella; 2) determines the GPS coordinates of the person using the self defense umbrella; 3) transmits the captured images and the GPS coordinates to an appropriate authority; 4) illuminates the environment of the person using the self defense umbrella; and, 5) operates a defensive firearm incorporated into the self defense umbrella.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Inventor: Howard Ross
  • Patent number: 10101135
    Abstract: Ammunition for a conductive energy weapon. A receptacle includes a cavity accessible through each of a first opening in a first face of the receptacle, a second opening in the first face of the receptacle, a third opening in a second face of the receptacle and a fourth opening in a third face of the receptacle. A propellant unit is included within the cavity proximate the second opening and a projectile is included within the cavity proximate the second opening. A housing is coupled to at least the second face and the third face of the receptacle and is further configured to couple to the conductive energy weapon. The propellant unit releases a propellant into the cavity, in a direction substantially opposite the projectile's direction of flight, in response to a trigger pull of the conductive energy weapon, and the cavity directs the propellant in the projectile's direction of flight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: Leonidas IP, LLC
    Inventors: Steven Abboud, Chi-Myin Chang
  • Patent number: 9989336
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a projectile device for the nonlethal immobilization of threats. The invention includes a plurality of grappling-type hooking assemblies attached by a flexible means to a projectile core, a means for the dispersal of the hooking assemblies on or just prior to impact on a target, and a means for ballistically deploying the device from a 12 gauge shotgun, a 35 mm flare gun, a 40 mm grenade launcher, or other suitable launching device. In particular, the hooking assemblies disperse and adhere to the target, while the flexible attachment means entangle and either limit the motion of or immobilize the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Inventor: James W. Purvis
  • Patent number: 9940805
    Abstract: A marking and identification system and method includes a dispersing device configured to disperse marker therefrom when in an activated mode. An activating device is configured to arm the dispersing device from an inactivated mode wherein the dispensing device does not disperse marker to the activated mode. A triggering device is configured to operate the dispersing device and disperse marker when in the activated mode. The marker can be identified at a later time to positively identify a person that triggered the marking and identification system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Inventor: Todd Mona
  • Patent number: 9638498
    Abstract: A cartridge of a non-lethal weapon includes a housing in a launching device and including an internal space, a piercing member on a rear end of the space, a channel through the piercing member to communicate the space with at least one projectile, a metal sleeve at a front end of the space, and internal threads on an inner surface of the sleeve wherein the sleeve, the piercing member, and the housing are formed integrally; a high-pressure air canister in the space; a cap including two front through holes, external threads adjacent to the through holes, an internal primer between the through holes, and at least one spacer between the primer and the air canister wherein the cap is in the sleeve with the external threads and the internal threads secured together; and a first washer sandwiched by and between the cap and the inner surface of the space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Hong Yih Chang
  • Patent number: 9404721
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a less lethal munition including a ring airfoil projectile. The flight trajectory of the projectile has increased accuracy resulting from the aerodynamic stabilization of the projectile. In some embodiments, the projectile is both aerodynamically stabilized and spin stabilized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Inventor: Kimball Rustin Scarr
  • Patent number: 9354026
    Abstract: An electronic weapon with an installed deployment unit, from which at least one tethered electrode is launched, provides a stimulus current through a target to inhibit locomotion by the target. The wire tether, also called a filament, conducts the stimulus current. The one or more electrodes, according to various aspects of the present invention, perform one or more of the following functions in any combination: binding the filament to the electrode, deploying the filament from the deployment unit, coupling the electrode to the target, and distributing a current density with respect to a volume of target tissue. An electrode may include a spear comprising a material with integrated conductive and insulative substances (e.g., conductive fibers in insulative composite material) and a geometry to dissipate kinetic energy after impact with the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: TASER International, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark A. Hanchett
  • Patent number: 9329007
    Abstract: Charged projectile assemblies include a housing and an electronic assembly configured to produce an electric field about at least a portion of the housing of the projectile. Cartridge assemblies for use with firearms include charged projectiles. Methods of charging a projectile include forming an electric field about at least a portion of a projectile and extending the electric field at least partially between a forward portion of the projectile and an aft portion of the projectile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: ORBITAL ATK, INC.
    Inventors: Otto S. Krauss, John W. Westbrook, III
  • Patent number: 9103639
    Abstract: According to the invention, the marking device has a shape of revolution and comprises a casing (1) with a conical bottom (8) closed off by an obturator (2), fixed in a sealed manner to said casing (1). Inside said marking device there is a block (15) of compacted marking product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: MBDA France
    Inventors: Patrick Barthelemy, Nicolas Sibilaud, Marc Ferrat, Laurent Carton, Philippe Dubois, Hervé Vuillermoz
  • Patent number: 9094821
    Abstract: A software upgrade application can be downloaded to a handset to selectively enable enhanced functionality physical layer circuitry. In a particular implementation, an OFDM handset or other portable modem includes selectively enabled time domain channel estimation circuitry. An upgrade application within the handset is activated. The handset is checked to confirm compatibility with the enhanced functionality and the upgrade application is checked to confirm its authenticity. The upgrade application then activates the enhanced functionality within the physical layer of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: Acorn Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven J. Caliguri, Steven C. Thompson
  • Publication number: 20150144018
    Abstract: This invention relates to a non-lethal projectile to be fired using a paintball gun, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to an aerodynamic non-lethal projectile which is used for marking, inhibiting or administering medicinal or other chemical substances to live targets. According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a projectile comprising a body shaped to receive a capsule containing a substance, the body having a stabilising member connected thereto for stabilising the projectile in flight when the projectile is discharged from a weapon, and an annular member connected to the stabilising member at a rear end of the projectile for positioning the projectile relative to the weapon and relative to other projectiles to be discharged by the weapon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventor: Andre Johann BUYS
  • Patent number: 9022620
    Abstract: The present invention provides a tactical light configured such that it can be propelled toward a predetermined location. The tactical light includes a housing that defines an interior space. An effects assembly is configured to be positioned within the interior space defined by the housing. The effects assembly is rotatably connected to the housing by a rotary connector. The effects assembly is configured such that it has a center of gravity that is offset from an axis defined by the rotary connectors. In this regard, a light source positioned on the effects assembly is configured to illuminate a predetermined area relative to the effects assembly and its center of gravity and independent of the position of the surface of the housing relative to effects assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: George Walter Hulak Brinzey
  • Patent number: 9021959
    Abstract: A less than lethal cartridge for a projectile which when fired has a velocity which will not kill an individual struck by the projectile. The less than lethal cartridge has a rim which is deeper or thicker than a rim on a conventional lethal cartridge. The caliber of the cartridge is also selected so that regular lethal ammunition is not available in this caliber. The preferred caliber of the less than lethal cartridge is .490. The less than lethal cartridge contains a polymeric projectile or alternatively, a sealed filled polymeric pouch containing shot therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Brejon Holdings (BVI), Ltd.
    Inventor: John Hayes
  • Patent number: 9021957
    Abstract: A gun-launched, non-lethal, anti-personnel projectile includes a variable thrust, solid propellant rocket motor. The rocket motor has a variable thrust profile that maintains a substantially constant kinetic energy of the projectile below a lethal threshold from a range of about 5 meters to about 400 meters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Anthony P. Farina, Brian Wong
  • Patent number: 9016888
    Abstract: A to a non-combustible, tactical flash device includes a non-spherical hollow main housing having a plurality of flat surfaces, adapted to hold internal functional components. The internal functional components include: (i.) an externally exposed activation component located on the main housing; (ii.) a power connected to the activation component and to a control chip; (iii.) the control chip also being connected to at least one speaker and at least one light source, the control chip including capabilities for delay of processing of other commands upon initiation of the activation component, and for subsequent processing of other commands including sound delivery to at least one speaker and/or light activation to at least one light source. Optionally, a beacon transmitter may also be included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Jersey Tactical Corp.
    Inventors: Kenneth P. Glynn, Nicholas Klementowicz, III, John A. Dapkins, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140373745
    Abstract: A non-lethal projectile having a shear-thinning fluid within an interior cavity. The shear-thinning fluid having a greater apparent viscosity at low shear rates to spin-stabilize the non-lethal projectile during flight and a lower apparent viscosity at a high shear rate corresponding with the shear-thinning fluid shearing against the frangible cap upon the non-lethal projectile striking the target, with the low viscosity of the shear-thinning fluid allowing proper dispersal upon impact with the target. The shear-thinning fluid can comprise a marking media and be in the form of an emulsion with less than about 50% liquid by volume to effectively disperse upon impact with the target.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: Erik K. Carlson, Joshua L. Edel
  • Patent number: 8915191
    Abstract: A spin stabilized and drag-stabilized, blunt impact, non-lethal projectile is provided, having a rigid base and rigid windscreen, with a compressible body therebetween, thereby enabling use thereof in high pressure/compression firing mechanisms, but yet operable to compress/deform upon impact with a target. In particular, a spin stabilized, blunt impact, non-lethal projectile is provided having a rigid windscreen and base, with a compressible body therebetween which compresses/deforms upon impact with a target. In addition, a drag-stabilized version thereof is provided, having canted fins thereon so as to control flight of the projectile via the imposition of drag thereon. Additionally, the projectile is capable of carrying agents, such as crowd control and marking agents, in an agent reservoir, and ejecting same onto a target upon impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Jones
  • Patent number: 8904940
    Abstract: A grenade device produces a delayed bang upon coupling to a pressurized canister containing gas. The device includes an annular housing, an awl, a sleeve, a diaphragm, a base and a cap. The housing has first and second axial ends and an internal bulkhead disposed therebetween with a choke flow-through orifice. The awl extends axially outward from the bulkhead. The sleeve connects to the housing at the first axial end. The diaphragm is disposed between the sleeve and the housing to form an annular chamber. The cap inserts into the housing at the second axial end and receives the canister facing the awl. The base connects to the housing at the second axial end. When the canister is compressed towards the device the awl punctures the canister to release the gas, which flows through the choke orifice to pressurize the chamber, and the diaphragm ruptures upon exceeding a pressure threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Sokha Pann, Samuel R. Koski, John F. Busic
  • Patent number: 8896982
    Abstract: A deployment unit for an electronic control device (ECD) used as a weapon provides a current from a signal generator of the ECD through tissue of a human or animal target. The deployment unit includes a housing, an interface, a filament, and an electrode. The interface couples the housing to the signal generator. The filament includes a first end coupled to the interface for receiving the current and comprises a second end. The filament conducts the current for inhibiting voluntary movement by the target. The electrode, stored in the housing prior to deployment, mechanically couples the filament to the target when deployed. The electrode includes an assembly of a first part and a second part that after assembly cooperate to bind the second end of the filament to the electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: TASER International, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas W. Beechey, Michael J. Campbell, Mark A. Hanchett
  • Patent number: 8888908
    Abstract: Disclosed are improved colorant compositions that are suitable for encapsulation in an impact-rupturable casing that is adapted for intact projectile motion and rupture upon contact with a target surface. In many embodiments, the colorant compositions comprise (a) a carrier comprising: (i) a metathesized unsaturated polyol ester; and (ii) a polyol ester; and (b) a colorant. The colorant compositions are useful in paint balls for use in conjunction with projectile devices, such as paint ball markers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Elevance Renewable Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy A. Murphy, Brent A. Aufdembrink
  • Patent number: 8881654
    Abstract: Ammunition which includes a bullet having an effective caliber that is larger than its nominal caliber, comprised of a bullet body with a longitudinal cavity in the forward end, and one or more bores extending from the cavity to bore openings on the exterior of the bullet. In use, target media is gathered in the cavity and ejected under force through the bore openings, increasing the damage done by the bullet. Optional embodiments include filled, irritant payload, and jacketed embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: LWS Ammunition LLC
    Inventor: Lueder Seecamp
  • Patent number: 8875634
    Abstract: An aerodynamic projectile is provided having a shell with an aerodynamic structure and a controlled center of gravity, and which exhibits improved aerodynamics and resulting accuracy, and which is suitable for less lethal uses. The projectile shell has a closed front cavity housing a payload, such as a marking agent, therein. The projectile shell also has an open rear portion to provide access to the open rear cavity, and to decrease the weight of the projectile and appropriately locate the center of gravity. The projectile shell also includes a plurality of fins on a sidewall member to enhance the accuracy of the projectile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: PC IP Group, LLC
    Inventors: Gary E. Gibson, Michael A. Varacins
  • Patent number: 8844444
    Abstract: A reusable test projectile may be used for spinning and non-spinning shots in a soft catch system. The projectile may include a body having an integrally formed base and a removable nose. The body may define a generally cylindrical open area between the nose and the base. A generally circular cargo retaining ring may be disposed in the open area, normal to a longitudinal axis of the projectile. A cargo area is defined between the cargo retaining ring and the base. The solid bulkhead includes a front surface that forms a rear end of the cargo area and a rear concave surface. A driving band seat can be added on the exterior surface of the body at the bulkhead, for each repeated launch of the projectile, as may be desired. A slipped obturator seat may be formed on the exterior surface of the base rearward of the driving band seat, as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Ryan Hooke, Tyler Myers
  • Publication number: 20140261045
    Abstract: A remote treatment system may include a syringe assembly and a cone assembly. The syringe assembly may further include a cannula that has a solid bevel tip and an exit port on a longitudinal side of the cannula. The cone assembly may include a fore-end ring at the cone assembly apex and a base ring at a center of the cone assembly base. The fore-end ring and base ring may carry the cannula and the fore-end ring may be shiftable along the longitudinal axis of the cannula between an extended first position and a retracted second position. The fore-end ring may be in a sealing relation with the cannula exit port in the extended first position, while the exit port may be unsealed in the retracted second position. In response to an impact between the cone assembly and a target, the fore-end ring may shift to its second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Alastair Gordon Scott
  • Publication number: 20140245918
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a less lethal munition including a ring airfoil projectile. The flight trajectory of the projectile has increased accuracy resulting from the aerodynamic stabilization of the projectile. In some embodiments, the projectile is both aerodynamically stabilized and spin stabilized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Inventor: Kimball Rustin Scarr
  • Publication number: 20140230680
    Abstract: A less than lethal projectile comprising a shell body made of elastic material and accommodating a plurality of separate pellets encapsulated therewithin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: UFB TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    Inventor: Yehuda Meller
  • Publication number: 20140216290
    Abstract: Systems and methods described herein provide for the protection of personnel within vehicles and structures from rocket-propelled grenades and other incoming threats. According to one aspect of the disclosure provided herein, a countermeasure system includes an interceptor vehicle configured to stow and launch an expandable countermeasure. The countermeasure may have a flexible body with attached deployment mechanisms that expand the flexible body into the path of an incoming threat to capture the threat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventor: THE BOEING COMPANY
  • Patent number: 8794155
    Abstract: A system includes an incomplete cartridge for a firearm and a field-selectable capsule for the cartridge. The capsule contains a product that may tag a person for tracing, induce sleep, cause disease, or have other effects. Capsules are preferably removably adhered to a strip with each strip of capsules potentially serving a different purpose. The incomplete cartridge includes a bullet that has an opening at the payload end. The opening receives and retains a capsule upon insertion. The capsule is made of a frangible material that releases the product upon impact. The capsule may be formed with a snap-in ridge extending from its exterior wall, which snaps into a complementary recess in the bullet opening. Alternatively, the capsule may be coated with a contact adhesive so that it sticks to the bullet wall defining the opening. A peel-off covering atop the strip shields the contact adhesive from contamination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: HP Associates
    Inventor: S. Mill Calvert
  • Patent number: 8783185
    Abstract: A liquid missile for being projected from a launching device which includes a liquid charge combined with a non-rigid flight integrity component. The flight integrity component allows the liquid charge to be launched at increased speeds and distances by inhibiting substantial break-up of the liquid charge during flight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jacobsen, Fraser M. Smith
  • Patent number: 8733251
    Abstract: Ammunition for a conductive energy weapon. A receptacle includes a cavity accessible through each of a first opening in a first face of the receptacle, a second opening in the first face of the receptacle, a third opening in a second face of the receptacle and a fourth opening in a third face of the receptacle. A propellant unit is included within the cavity proximate the second opening and a projectile is included within the cavity proximate the second opening. A housing is coupled to at least the second face and the third face of the receptacle and is further configured to couple to the conductive energy weapon. The propellant unit releases a propellant into the cavity, in a direction substantially opposite the projectile's direction of flight, in response to a trigger pull of the conductive energy weapon, and the cavity directs the propellant in the projectile's direction of flight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventors: Steven Abboud, Chi-Myin Chang
  • Publication number: 20140109790
    Abstract: A less lethal weapon projectile having an overall cylindrical shape and including a front end (4) shaped as an at least approximately spherical cap and a rear end (2) includes: a core (6) made from aluminium foam, having an overall cylindrical shape and including a front end (16) and a rear end (13) with a rear face (14), the front end (16) shaped as an at least substantially spherical cap; a base (5) assembled with the rear end (13) of the core (6) and including a front wall (9), arranged transversely and covering the rear face (14) of the core (6); and an outer case (7) covering at least the front end (16) of the core (6). The center of gravity and the center of thrust correspond perfectly, so that the projectile has good external ballistics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: NOBEL SPORT
    Inventors: Marwan Dannawi, Jean-François Jacquet
  • Publication number: 20140083402
    Abstract: A crowd control projectile includes a payload carrier, an incapacitating agent inside the payload carrier, and an activating mechanism for activating the incapacitating agent. The activating mechanism includes a sensor and a timer. The timer delays the activation until a predetermined delay after the sensor senses that the projectile has been launched. Alternatively, the activating mechanism includes a receiver for receiving an activation signal after the projectile has been launched. Preferably, the projectile has the shape of a clay pigeon. A launcher of such a projectile includes a communication mechanism for transmitting a timing signal or an activation signal to the projectile and an arm for launching the projectile by direct contact. To control a crowd, the projectile is launched over the crowd by direct contact with a solid arm and the activating mechanism is used to activate the incapacitating agent when the projectile is above the crowd.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: L.H.B. LTD.
    Inventors: Ofer Fridman, Yariv Ben Yehuda
  • Patent number: 8671841
    Abstract: The invention relates to a ballistic ammunition or projectile that is non-lethal or has controlled effects, of small or medium caliber. An internal structure is provided, made of a low-density cellular material with an elongation at break of less than 10%. An external casing encases the structure. The casing is made of a low hardness material with an elongation at break in excess of 100%. The casing is attached to the structure. The projectile may contain at least one cavity containing a different material from that of the structure and may also contain a payload.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Securinov SA
    Inventors: Cyrille Raquin, Richard Guillot
  • Publication number: 20140063679
    Abstract: A unitary projectile for an immobilization weapon and tethered by two electrical wires, has a plurality of electrical contacts including several contacts dispersed in a spaced pattern around the projectile after target impact. The pattern of several contacts substantially increases the probability that if the projectile hits the target, an immobilization circuit through the target will be completed. The deployment of the contacts occurs as a result of the sudden deceleration of the projectile when it impacts the target. This simplifies the deployment as well as the projectile configuration and likely reduces the risk of misactivation or an ill-timed activation of the second contacts. In a preferred version of the disclosed embodiments, there are preferably four contacts dispersed in a symmetrical arrangement around the projectile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: Yong S. Park
  • Patent number: 8661983
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a less lethal munition including a ring airfoil projectile. The flight trajectory of the projectile has increased accuracy resulting from the aerodynamic stabilization of the projectile. In some embodiments, the projectile is both aerodynamically stabilized and spin stabilized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Kimball Rustin Scarr
  • Publication number: 20140026778
    Abstract: The invention provides a marker projectile a hollow body (4) having an opening at the front; a marker substance (3) disposed within the hollow body (4); and an expelling member (5) within the hollow body (4) behind the marking substance (3); the hollow body (4) and expelling member (5) being configured such that upon impact of the projectile with a target, the momentum of the expelling member (5) relative to the hollow body (4) carries the expelling member (5) forwardly to expel the marking substance (3) through the opening, a separator (1) extending at least partly over the front opening, the separator (1) defining two or more spaces through which the marker substance (3) may pass when expelled through the opening and characterised by a deformable closing member (2) positioned between the marking substance (3) and the separator (1), the closing member (2) configured to deform under the impact of the travelling expelling member (5) whereby to release the marking substance (3) from the hollow body (4).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: UTM IP LIMITED
    Inventor: Michael Ernest Saxby