Systems and Methods for Delivering a Dosage of a Drug to a Target

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for delivering a dosage of a drug to a target use an electrode that may deliver the drug and/or a current through the target to impede locomotion of the target. Delivery of a dosage may be accomplished by selecting one or more electrodes from a plurality of electrodes to deliver the drug or by metering deliver of the drug from one or more electrodes. Delivery of the current may be accomplished by one or more, preferably two electrodes. The electrodes that deliver the current through the target may also cooperate to deliver the dosage of the drug to the target.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention relate to electrodes (e.g., darts, syringes) for providing a dosage of a drug and/or a current to a target to inhibit locomotion of the target.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Electrodes (e.g., darts, syringes) may be used to provide a current and/or a drug to a human or animal target to impede locomotion of the target. Electrodes capable of delivering a drug may benefit from the capability of selecting a dosage (e.g., amount) of the drug for delivery into a target. Electrodes capable of delivering a current through a target may benefit by using the current to deliver a drug into the target.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

Embodiments of the present invention will now be further described with reference to the drawing, wherein like designations denote like elements, and:

FIG. 1 is a function block diagram of an electrode for delivering a drug into a target and/or a current through the target in accordance with various aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of cartridge that includes at least one of the electrodes of FIG. 1 and a launch device for launching the electrodes and providing a current;

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a projectile that includes at least one electrode of FIG. 1 and a launch device for launching the projectile;

FIG. 4 is a side plan view of the electrode of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a cross-section of the electrode of FIG. 4 at 5-5 in accordance with one implementation;

FIG. 6 is a cross-section of the electrode of FIG. 4 at 5-5 in accordance with another implementation; and

FIG. 7 is a cross-section of the electrode of FIG. 4 at 5-5 in accordance with a further implementation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A current may be provided (e.g., delivered, sent, conducted) through a human or animal target to impede locomotion of the target. A current may impede locomotion of a target by causing pain in the target such that the target voluntarily stops locomotion. A current may impede locomotion of a target by causing contractions of the skeletal muscles of the target thereby halting voluntary locomotion of the target.

A drug may be provided (e.g., injected, introduced, delivered, implanted) into a human or animal target to impede locomotion of the target. A drug may sedate (e.g., tranquilize, anesthetize) a target thereby impeding locomotion of the target. A drug may reduce motivation and/or ability of a target to move thereby slowing locomotion of a target. A drug may cause a target to become unconscious thereby halting locomotion of the target. Drugs that may impede locomotion of a target may include barbiturates (e.g., amobarbital, pentobarbital, secobarbital, phenobarbital), benzodiazepines (e.g., clonazepam, diazepam, estazolam, flunitrazepam, lorazepam, midazolam, nitrazepam, oxazepam, triazolam, temazepam, chlordiazepoxide, alprazolam), and nonbenzodiazepines (e.g., eszopiclone, zaleplon, zolpidem, zopiclone).

An electrode (e.g., dart, syringe) may provide a current through a target and/or a drug into a target. An electrode may be in or proximate to target tissue to deliver a current through the target. Air in a gap between an electrode and target tissue may be ionized to establish an electrical path through a target to deliver the current through the target. An electrode that is in or near target tissue may electrically couple to the target and may deliver a current through the target. An electrode that is in (e.g., embedded into, inserted into) target tissue may deliver a drug into the target. An electrode may deliver a drug subcutaneously into the target. An electrode that is proximate to target tissue may deliver a drug to the surface of target tissue. An electrode may deliver a drug topically to an outer surface of target tissue.

A current may be provided through a target via a circuit formed using one or more electrodes. A circuit formed using one electrode may include a first terminal of a signal generator, a wire from the first terminal to an electrode, and a path from the electrode through target tissue to ground. A second terminal of the signal generator is also grounded to complete the circuit for providing a current through the target. A current provided by the signal generator travels from the first terminal, through the wire, through the electrode, and through target tissue to ground thereby completing the circuit or visa versa.

A circuit formed using two or more electrodes includes a first terminal of a signal generator, a wire from the first terminal to a first electrode, a path from the first electrode through target tissue to a second electrode, and a wire from the second electrode to a second terminal of the signal generator. A circuit may be completed through any two of the two or more electrodes. A current provided by the signal generator travels the circuit in either direction (e.g., first terminal to second terminal, second terminal to first terminal).

As discussed above, forming a circuit whether using one or two or more electrodes, may include ionizing air in a gap to complete the circuit. A gap may exist, for example, between a terminal and target tissue, a wire and an electrode, and portions of an electrode.

A current and/or a drug may be delivered to a remote (e.g., within tether range, within projectile range) target. A launch device may launch one or more electrodes toward a target to deliver the current and/or the drug to the target. A launch device may be oriented toward a target. A launch device may launch one or more electrodes to deliver a current and/or a drug to the target. A human operator may operate the launch device. A machine (e.g., computer, controller) may partially or fully operate a launch device.

A launch device may include Electronic Control Device (“ECD”) handles produced by TASER International, Inc. such as the ECD handle for the X2 or X3 brand ECDs. A launch device may further include a shotgun.

An electrode may be tethered to a launch device. Launch of an electrode deploys (e.g., extends, pulls) a conductive wire (e.g., filament, tether) between the launch device and the electrode at the target. A launch device may provide a current through the target via the wire and the electrode. A launch device may further provide an instruction (e.g., signal, command) via the wire to the electrode to accomplish deliver of a dosage of the drug into the target. The current provided by a launch device to impeded locomotion of a target may operate to accomplish delivery or initiation of delivery of a dosage of the drug into the target.

A projectile may include one or more electrodes. A launch device may launch a projectile toward a target. A projectile is not tethered to the launch device after launch. A range of deliver of a projectile may be greater than a range of deliver of a tethered electrode. An electrode of a projectile that contacts target tissue may deliver a current through the target. A power supply (e.g., battery, signal generator) may provide the current for delivery through the target via the electrode. An electrode that is on or in target tissue may deliver a dosage of a drug to the target. A projectile may provide an instruction (e.g., signal, command) to the electrode to accomplish deliver of a dosage of the drug into the target.

A dosage includes an amount of a drug sufficient to accomplish the purpose of providing the drug to the target. A dosage may include an amount of a drug sufficient to impede locomotion of a target. A dosage may be selected in accordance with a characteristic (e.g., size, mass, sex, species, level of activity, physical condition, health) of a target. A human operator of a launch device may provide information (e.g., data) to a launch device regarding one or more characteristics of a target. For example, the size of a target may be described as small, medium, large. The sex of a target may be described as male or female. The physical condition of a target may be described as normal, overweight, or obese. A human operator of a launch device may provide information regarding characteristics of a target via a user interface. A launch device and/or a projectile may determine (e.g., select, calculate) a dosage in accordance with a characteristic of a target. A launch device and/or a projectile may perform an operation to deliver the selected dosage to a target.

Dosage selection may be accomplished by electrode selection and/or metering drug delivery. Dosage selection accomplished by electrode selection includes selecting a set of electrodes from a plurality of electrodes and launching the electrodes of the set toward the target to deliver the drug. Each electrode of a plurality of electrodes may include an amount of a drug. The electrodes of the plurality may include a same amount of the drug, a different amount of the drug, and/or a different concentration (e.g., molarity, effective amount, mass) of the drug. Electrodes are selected for the set such that the total amount of the drug of the electrodes selected for the set is substantially equal (e.g., close) to the desired dosage for delivery to the target. Delivery of the electrodes of the set to the target delivers the dosage of the drug to the target. A launch device may cooperate in selecting the set of electrodes for launching toward the target.

Electrode selection may be further be used to select a type of drug for delivery. Electrodes of a plurality of electrodes may include an amount of different drugs. Electrodes may be selected that deliver a dosage of one type of drug or a combination of drugs.

Dosage selection by metering (e.g., measuring, regulating) delivers of an amount of a drug from a reservoir in an electrode into a target such that the amount delivered is the desired dosage. Metering delivery of a drug includes detecting an amount of the drug delivered and/or an amount remaining in the reservoir and ceasing delivery when the amount delivered is substantially equal to the dosage. Delivering a dosage of the drug may include delivering only a fraction of the total amount of the drug available in the reservoir. A launch device may cooperate in selecting an amount of the drug to be metered to the target.

According to various aspects of the present invention, the electrode of FIGS. 1-4 and 7 may meter delivery of a drug to provide a dosage of the drug.

According to various aspects of the present invention, the cartridge and projectile of FIGS. 2-3 in cooperation with their respective launch devices may select a set of electrodes for providing a dosage of a drug to a target. A dosage may be delivered by some electrodes of a selected set delivering all of the drug of their respective reservoirs while other electrodes of the selected set meter delivery of the drug from their reservoir.

To provide a better understanding of the systems and methods of the invention, various implementations of electrodes are discussed to provide an understanding of the delivery of a drug and/or a current from (e.g., via) an electrode to a target. Such electrodes may meter delivery of the drug or may deliver an entire amount of a drug stored in its reservoir. Further, the current provided through the target via the electrode may cooperate to deliver or initiate delivery of the drug from the electrode into the target.

As discussed above, an electrode may deliver a drug to and/or a current through a target. An electrode may be launched by a launch device toward a target to deliver the drug and/or the current. An electrode may be wire tethered to a launch device or part of a projectile.

For example, electrode 100 may perform the functions of an electrode discussed above. Electrode 100 may include spear 110, reservoir 112, plunger 114, mover 116, detector 120, processing circuit 130, switch 140, and power supply 160. Electrode 100 may be coupled to a launch device (not shown) via wire 104. Electrode 100 may be positioned via launching in or near target 150 to deliver a current through target 150. A current may be delivered to target 150 from a launch device via tether wire 104. Electrode 100 may be positioned via launching proximate or in target tissue of target 150 to deliver a drug to target 150. A current may be delivered to electrode 100 to accomplish and/or initiate delivery of the drug to target 150. An electrode may include an aerodynamic shape for accurate and repeatable delivery toward a target.

A power supply may provide energy for performing a function of an electrode, a launch device, a projectile, and/or a cartridge. A power supply may store energy. A power supply may receive energy for storing. A power supply may provide energy. Energy may include electrical energy (e.g., potential, voltage, current). A power supply may provide energy to a processing circuit. A processing circuit may use energy to perform the functions of a processing circuit. A power supply may provide energy to a switch. A power supply may at times (e.g., prior to launch of electrode) receive energy via a switch. A switch may direct energy from a power supply to a mover and/or a spear. A power supply may provide energy to a detector. A detector may use energy to perform the functions of a detector. A power supply may provide energy to a signal generator. A signal generator may use energy to perform the functions of a signal generator. A power supply may provide energy for providing a current through a target to impede (e.g., halt) locomotion of a target. A power supply may include a battery. A power supply may include charged capacitor. A capacitor that provides energy may be charged before or during launch. A power supply may be insulated from electrical couplings prior to launch to preserve the energy of the power supply. Before or during launch and/or at impact with a target, the insulation between a power supply and the components of an electrode or projectile may be removed to establish electrical couplings to provide energy from the power supply.

For example, power supply 160 and 770 (e.g., 160/770) provide energy to processing circuits 130 and 720 respectively (e.g., 130/720), detectors 120 and 750 respectively (e.g., 120/750) if needed, and switches 140 and 730 respectively (e.g., 140/730). Processing circuit 130/720 uses the electrical energy (e.g., voltage, current) from power supply 160/770 to perform the functions of a processing circuit as discussed herein. For example, processing circuit 130/720 may control the operation (e.g., switching) of switch 140/730. Switch 140/730 may provide energy from power supply 160/770 to mover 116/760. Mover 116/760 may use the energy provided by power supply 160/770 to move plunger 114/740. Detector 120/750 may use energy from power supply 160/770 to perform the functions of a detector as discussed herein. Detector 120/750, depending on implementation, may or may not use energy from power supply 160/770 to perform the functions of detector 120/750. Power supply 380 provides energy to processing circuit 350 and signal generator 380. Processing circuit 350 uses the electrical energy from power supply 380 to perform the functions of a processing circuit as discussed herein. Signal generator 340 uses the energy from power supply 380 to perform the functions of a signal generator as discussed herein.

A spear may puncture (e.g., penetrate) target clothing and/or tissue. A spear may lodge (e.g., rest, stick, embed, grasp) proximate to target tissue. A spear may lodge in target clothing. A spear may contact (e.g., touch, rest against) and/or puncture (e.g., penetrate, enter) target tissue. A spear may lodge in target tissue. A spear may deliver a current and/or a drug to a target. A spear may be oriented toward a target during travel of the electrode toward a target. A spear may be formed at least in part of a conductive material for conducting a current through a target. A spear may include a channel (e.g., duct, bore, hollow) for delivering a drug into a target. A spear may have fluid communication with a reservoir. A spear may act as a conduit for transferring a drug from a reservoir to target tissue.

For example, spear 420 is positioned on a forward (e.g., with respect to a direction of travel) portion of spear 400. Spear 420 includes sharp end portion 422 for piercing clothing and/or target tissue. Spear 420 includes barb 424 for lodging in target clothing and/or tissue. Barb 424 resists removal of spear 420 from target clothing and/or tissue. Walls 520 of spear 420 may be formed of a conductive material. Spear 420 may include channel 522. Spear 420 may be in fluid communication with reservoir 550. Drug 552 from reservoir 550 may traverse (e.g., travel) channel 552 to transfer all or part of drug 552 from reservoir 550 to target tissue.

A means for delivering includes a spear. A means for delivering may perform the functions of a spear discussed herein.

A reservoir may store a drug (e.g., agent, active ingredient) for delivery to a target. A reservoir may store a drug in any physical state (e.g., solid, gas, liquid, viscous liquid). A reservoir may include compartments for separately storing constituents of a drug. A reservoir may provide a drug for delivery to a target. Providing a drug may include mixing constituents of the drug to provide the drug. Delivery may include transforming the drug from one physical state to another physical state. A reservoir may retain a drug before, during, and/or after impact of an electrode or a projectile that carries an electrode with a target. A reservoir may deliver a drug into a target responsive to a force of impact. A reservoir may deliver a drug responsive to operation of a plunger. A reservoir may establish fluid communication with a spear. A reservoir may establish fluid communication with a spear responsive to a force of impact and/or an operation of a plunger. Once a reservoir establishes fluid communication with a spear, the reservoir may provide a drug for delivery to a target via a channel of the spear. A reservoir may be formed of a stiff material and/or a resilient (e.g., flexible, springy, elastic, flexible) material.

For example, reservoir 550 is positioned in body 410 of electrode 500. Reservoir 550 stores drug 552. Reservoir 550 may establish fluid communication with spear 420. Reservoir 550 may provide drug 552 for delivery to a target through channel 522.

A means for storing includes a reservoir. A means for storing may perform the functions of a reservoir discussed herein.

A plunger may penetrate (e.g., enter, move into, pierce) a reservoir. A plunger may apply a force on a reservoir. A plunger may apply a force on a drug stored in a reservoir. A plunger may compress a reservoir and/or a drug. Applying a force to a reservoir may force a drug from the reservoir. A plunger may penetrate a reservoir to force a drug from the reservoir to deliver the drug to a target. A plunger may include a seal. A seal may prevent (e.g., stop, limit, reduce) an escape of a drug from the reservoir. A seal may prevent escape of a drug from a reservoir as the plunger penetrates and/or compresses the reservoir. A seal may direct (e.g., steer, channel, regulate, guide) movement of a drug from the reservoir. A seal may direct a drug to exit a reservoir via a channel in a spear. A plunger may continue to apply a force on a reservoir until the reservoir is substantially depleted (e.g., empty). A force provided by a plunger may establish fluid communication between a reservoir and a channel. A plunger may penetrate a reservoir before, during, and/or after impact of an electrode or a projectile that carries an electrode with a target. A plunger may penetrate a reservoir responsive to a force of impact. A plunger may penetrate a reservoir responsive to a force provided by a mover. A plunger may be formed of a magnetic material (e.g., natural magnet).

For example, plunger 540 is positioned in body 410 of electrode 500. Plunger 540 includes seal 542. Seal 542 prevents an escape of drug 552 in a direction of plunger 540. Plunger 540 penetrates reservoir 550 to force drug 552 from reservoir 550 into channel 522 of spear 420. Movement of plunger 540 to penetrate reservoir 550 applies a force on reservoir 550. The force applied by plunger 540 may establish fluid communication between reservoir 550 and channel 522 of spear 420. Reservoir 550 may include a seal (not shown) between reservoir 550 and channel 522. A force applied by plunger 540 may rupture (e.g., break, pierce) the seal between reservoir 550 and channel 522 to establish fluid communication between reservoir 550 and channel 522. Plunger 540 may penetrate (e.g., move to right on page) reservoir 550 until substantial all of drug 552 is delivered out of reservoir 550 into a target via channel 522.

A means for pushing includes a plunger. A means for pushing may perform the functions of a plunger as discussed herein. A means for pushing may further perform the functions of a seal as discussed herein.

A mover may apply a force on a plunger. A mover may apply a force on a plunger to move the plunger. A mover may apply a force on a plunger so that the plunger penetrates a reservoir. A mover may provide a force that results from a release of any type of energy (e.g., kinetic, magnetic, electrical, chemical, potential, inertia, gravitational, recoil). A plunger may cooperate with a mover to translate the force provided by the mover into movement of the plunger. A force provided by a mover may be initiated (e.g., started, begun), controlled, and/or stopped. A force provided by a mover may be initiated at any time. A force provided by a mover may be initiated responsive to a force of impact. A force provided by a mover may be initiated with respect to an elapse of time (e.g., from launch, from impact, from provision of a current through a target). A force provided by a mover may be initiated by a current. A force provided by a mover may be stopped at any time. A force provided by a mover may be stopped responsive to a detector and/or a processing circuit.

For example, a mover may include pyrotechnic charge 530, controller 620 and pyrotechnic charge 530, and/or coil 760.

A pyrotechnic charge includes any composition that when burned provides a rapidly expanding gas. A pyrotechnic charge may include any conventional gunpowder. A pyrotechnic charge may be ignited using any conventional method for igniting a conventional pyrotechnic charge. For example, pyrotechnic charge 530 may be ignited using an electrical spark. In one implementation, electrode 500 provides a current through a target to impede locomotion of the target. The current may be provided (e.g., by a signal generator) to electrode 500 by a launch device via wire 430 as discussed above. Wire 430 is electrically coupled to conductive body 512. A gap 516 of air (e.g., spark gap) is positioned between conductive body 512 and conductive body 514. Providing a current through a target requires that air in gap 516 be ionized to establish a conductive path between conductive body 512 and conductive body 514. Ionization of air in gap 516 provides a spark that ignites pyrotechnic charge 530. The force of the rapidly expanding gas provided by pyrotechnic 530 applies a force on plunger 540 that causes plunger 540 to penetrate reservoir 550 and to provide drug 550 to a target. In this implementation, provision of a current through a target initiates providing a drug into the target.

Wire 430 may couple to a signal generator of a launch device to tether electrode 500 to a launch device. Wire 430 may couple to a projectile and/or a signal generator of a projectile.

A pyrotechnic charge may cooperate with a controller to provide a force to move a plunger. A controller may include an igniter, a timer, a fuse, an impact detector, and/or a current detector. An igniter may ignite pyrotechnic charge 530 responsive to an event. An event may include delivery of a current via wire 430, launch of electrode 600 toward a target, and impact of electrode 600 with a target. A fuse and/or a timer may cause a delay between detecting the event and igniting pyrotechnic charge 530. A current provided via wire 430 may be for delivery through a target to impede locomotion of the target and/or for igniting pyrotechnic charge 530. For example, controller 620 operates to ignite pyrotechnic 530. Controller 620 may perform the functions of an igniter, a timer, a fuse, an impact detector, and/or a current detector as discussed above.

A coil includes a conductor (e.g., wire) formed into a coil (e.g., spiral, helix). Responsive to a current, a coil provides (e.g., generates, forms) a magnetic field. A magnetic field may provide a force to move a plunger to penetrate a reservoir. For example, coil 760 of electrode 700 encircles plunger 740. Plunger 740 is formed of a magnetic material (e.g., permanent, ferromagnetic, ferrimagnetic). Providing a current to coil 760 causes the resultant magnetic field on an interior of coil 760 to move plunger 740. Plunger 740 may be moved by the magnetic field of coil 760 toward or away from reservoir 550. Control of the current through coil 760 may control a physical position of plunger 740. A magnet field produced by coil 760 may be established and subsequently eliminated to move plunger 740 a distance. A distance of movement of plunger 740 by the magnetic field of coil 760 may correspond to an amount of drug 550 provided from reservoir 550 to a target. Controlled movement of a plunger by a magnetic force provided by a coil is discussed below.

A means for moving includes a mover. A means for moving may perform the functions of a mover discussed herein.

A detector detects a physical property (e.g., intensive, extensive, isotropic, anisotropic). A detector may detect a change in a physical property. A detector may detect a physical property and/or a change in a physical property directly and/or indirectly. A detector may detect a physical property and/or a change in a physical property of an object. A detector may provide information. A detector may provide information regarding a physical property and/or a change in a physical property. A detector may provide information using any conventional techniques (e.g., physical, electrical) for providing information. A detector may provide information to a processing circuit. A detector may provide information responsive to a request for information. A detector may provide information in an analog format and/or a digital (e.g., discrete) format. A detector may provide information continuously and/or at intervals. A detector may cooperate to provide a dosage of a drug to a target.

For example, detector 750 may detect a position of plunger 740. Detector 750 may detect movement of plunger 740. Detector 750 may directly detect movement of plunger 740 by detecting an initial position of plunger 740 and one or more subsequent positions of plunger 740. Detector 750 may detect other physical properties that may provide information regarding a position of plunger 740. Information regarding other physical properties may be provided to a processing circuit to determine the position and/or movement of plunger 740. For example, detector 750 may detect a current provided through coil 760. As discussed above, a current through coil 760 produces a magnetic field that moves magnetic plunger 740. Information regarding an amount of the current provided through coil 760 may be used to determine a position of plunger 740. Detector 750 may detect a magnitude of a magnetic field produced by coil 760. Information regarding a magnitude of a magnetic field may be used to determine a position of plunger 740. Detector 750 may detect passage of time (e.g., duration). Detector 750 may detect duration of a current through coil 760 or duration of the magnetic field produced by coil 760. Information regarding duration may be used to determine a position of plunger 740.

Detecting movement of a plunger may be used to detect an amount of a drug provided to a target. Control of movement of a plunger may be used to deliver a dosage of a drug to a target.

A means for detecting includes a detector. A means for detecting may perform the functions of a detector discussed herein.

A processing circuit performs an operation, controls performance of an operation, and/or detects a result of an operation of a device such as electrode 100, launch device 250, launch device 360, projectile 300, and electrode 720.

A processing circuit may include any conventional electronic device and/or program (e.g., firmware, software) for performing an operation and/or controlling an operation. A processing circuit may be implemented with a conventional microprocessor that executes a stored program, logic gates, programmable logic gates, electronic components (e.g., op amps, analog to digital converters, digital to analog converters, resistors, capacitors, inductors, latches, flip-flops), a signal processor, and/or data buses. A processing circuit may cooperate with a memory to receive program instructions to perform an operation and/or to control an operation. A processing circuit may provide information to a memory for storage. A processing circuit may receive state (e.g., position, time, magnitude, status) information from and/or regarding a component of a system (e.g., detector, plunger, switch, reservoir, user interface, launch control signal generator, sensor). A processing circuit may convert information from one format (e.g., analog) to another format (e.g., digital). A processing circuit may perform calculations (e.g., addition, multiplication, division, subtraction, integration, averaging). A processing circuit may provide information regarding other components of a system and/or a result of a calculation. A processing circuit may use information received from a component of a system and/or a calculation to perform a function and/or control an operation.

A memory may include any conventional storage device (e.g., Flash, RAM, ROM, optical, magnetic). A memory may receive information (e.g., data) for storage. A memory may provide access to information. A memory may provide access to information responsive to a request. A memory may store information permanently (e.g., non-volatile) and/or temporarily (e.g., volatile). A memory may store information in any conventional organization. A memory may provide information in any conventional organization. A memory may provide information in parallel and/or in serial.

A processing circuit may perform some or all of the functions of a detector discussed above.

For example, processing circuit 130 of electrode 100 may perform and/or control an operation of electrode 100. For example, processing circuit 130 may control switch 140, detector 12, and/or mover 116. Processing circuit 130 may receive information from detector 120. Processing circuit 130 may perform an operation in accordance with information provided by detector 120. Processing circuit 130 may control mover 116 to move plunger 114 in accordance with information provided by detector 120. Processing circuit 130 may control an operation (e.g., reporting, detecting, initializing) of detector 120.

Processing circuits 254 and 364 may perform and/or control an operation of launch devices 250 and 360 respectively. Processing circuit 350 may perform and/or control an operation of projectile 300. Processing circuit 254/364 may receive information from a user via user interface 252/362. Processing circuit 254/350 may control deployment (e.g., launch, extension) of electrodes 212/312, 222/322, and 232/332 of cartridge 200/projectile 300 via launch control 260/deployer 310-330. Processing circuit 254/350 may control delivery of a current from signal generator 258/340 to electrodes 212/312, 222/322, and 232/332 and to a target via electrodes 212/312, 222/322, and 232/332. Processing circuit 254 may receive information (e.g., electrode range, drug concentration per electrode, electrodes not launched) from cartridge 200 via indicator 240 and sensor 256. Processing circuit 364 may control launch of projectile 300 via launch control 366. If electrodes 312, 322, and 332 are of the type that can meter delivery of a drug, processing circuit 364 may receive target characteristics from user interface 362 and provide information regarding target characteristics to processing circuit 350. A launch device may provide target characteristics information to processing circuit 720 via interface 702. Processing circuits 350 and 720 may use target characteristics information to instruct (e.g., program) electrodes 312, 322, 332 and 700 respectively to deliver a dosage of the drug to a target.

A means for processing includes a processing circuit. A means for processing may perform the functions of a processing circuit and a memory discussed herein.

A switch may direct (e.g., switch, divert, steer) an electrical signal (e.g., voltage, current) from a source terminal (e.g., input) of the switch to one or more of a plurality of output terminals of the switch. A switch may perform the function of directing in accordance with a control signal. A control signal may select which output terminal receives the electrical signal provided at the input terminal. A processing circuit may provide a control signal.

For example, Switch 140/730 may be controlled by processing circuit 130/720. Switch 140/730 may direct an electrical potential to mover 116/760 or spear 110/480. Switch 140/730 may receive energy for switching from power supply 160/770 and/or wire 104/430. Switch 140 of electrode 100 may direct the electrical potential of power supply 160 to mover 116 and/or spear 110. Switch 730 of electrode 700 may direct the electrical energy received via wire 430 and/or from power supply 770 to spear 420 via conductive frame 710 and conductor 732. Switch 730 of electrode 700 may direct the electrical energy received via wire 430 and/or from power supply 770 to coil 760 via conductors 734 and 736.

For example, to provide a current through coil 760, switch 730 may couple one terminal of power supply 770 to conductor 734 and the other terminal of power supply 770 to conductor 736. A current from power supply 770 traverses the circuit formed by switch 730, conductor 734, coil 760, and conductor 736. In a further example, switch 730 may couple wire 430 to conductor 734 and conductor 736 to conductor 732. A current from a launch device or a projectile traverses the circuit formed by conductor 430, conductor 734, coil 760, conductor 736, conductor 732, conductive frame 710, spear 420 and either ground through a target or a second electrode through the target.

Processing circuit 130/720 may direct an electrical energy to mover 116/760 or spear 110/480 via switch 140/730 in any order and/or at any time. For example, processing circuit 130/720 may direct an electrical energy first to spear 110/420 to determine whether spear 110/420 is embedded in target tissue. If spear 110/420 is embedded in target tissue, processing circuit 130/720 may control switch 140/730 to direct the electrical potential to mover 116/760 to move plunger 114/740 to provide a drug to the target. In the absence of wire 104/430 (e.g., broken, shorted), processing circuit 130/720 may control switch 140/730 to provide electrical energy to mover 116/760 and spear 110/420.

A switch may direct an electrical potential to a mover to operate (e.g., move, stop) the mover. A switch may direct an electrical potential to a spear to provide a current through a target to impede locomotion of the target.

A means for switching includes a switch. A means for switching may perform the functions of a switch discussed herein.

Different implementations of an electrode may include all of the components of electrode 100 or only a portion of the components of electrode 100.

In one implementation, an electrode includes spear 110, reservoir 112, plunger 114, mover 116, detector 120, processing circuit 130, and switch 140. Detector 120 may directly or indirectly detect an amount of a drug provided to target 150 and processing circuit 130 may stop mover 116 from delivering additional drug once a dosage has been delivered to target 150. Detector 120 and processing circuit 130 permit delivery of the drug to be metered as discussed above.

For example, electrode 700 includes spear 420, reservoir 550, plunger 740 with seal 542, coil 760, detector 750, processing circuit 720, switch 730, and power supply 770. As discussed above, switch 730 and processor 720 cooperate with power supply 770 or wire 430 and coil 760 to move plunger 740 to deliver drug 552 to a target. Detector 750 cooperates with processing circuit 720 and switch 730 to meter delivery of a dosage of drug 550 to a target.

To accomplish metering, as discussed above, detector 750 may detect movement of plunger 740, an amount of drug 552 remaining in reservoir 550, a magnitude of a magnetic field produced by coil 760, an amount of charge provided to coil 760, a magnitude of a current provided to coil 760, and/or an elapse of time. Detector 750 may provide information regarding a detected physical property to processing circuit 720. Processing circuit 720 may use information regarding a relationship (e.g., formula) between the physical property and/or a magnitude of the physical property detected by detector 750 to determine an amount of drug 552 delivered to a target. Processing circuit 720 may halt delivery of drug 552 to a target when an amount of drug delivered to the target is approximately (e.g., substantially, about) equal to a dosage. Processing circuit 720 may halt delivery of drug 552 to a target by instructing switch 730 to cease providing a current through coil 760 thereby halting movement of plunger 740.

In another implementation, an electrode includes spear 110, reservoir 112, plunger 114, mover 116, detector 120, processing circuit 130, and power supply 160. Current may be provided to mover 116 and spear 110 without switching between them. For example, power supply 160 may be omitted and the current from wire 104 provided to mover 116 and spear 110. Current from wire 104 may be provided to spear 110 while current from power supply 160 may be provided to mover 116. The current provided to mover 116 may provide energy for moving plunger 114 to deliver a drug. Movement of mover 116 may further be controlled by processing circuit 130 such that processing circuit 130 may disable movement of mover 116 even while a current is provided to mover 116. Detector 120 may detect an amount of a drug provided to target 150 and processing circuit 130 may stop (e.g., disable) mover 116 from delivering additional drug once a dosage has been delivered to target 150. Detector 120 and processing circuit 130 cooperate to perform the operation of metering deliver of the drug as discussed above.

In another implementation, an electrode includes spear 110, reservoir 112, plunger 114, mover 116, processing circuit 130, and power supply 160. In this implementation, processing circuit 130 performs the functions of controller 620 as discussed above, such that processing circuit may perform the functions of an igniter, a timer, a fuse, an impact detector, and/or a current detector. Because this implementation does not include a detector, delivery of the drug cannot be metered, so the entire amount of the drug in reservoir 112 is delivered to target 150.

For example with respect to electrode 600, wire 430 provides a current to spear 420 and controller 620 via conducting frame 610. Upon detecting the current, controller 620 may perform an operation to ignite charge 530 to move plunger 540 and seal 542 to push drug 552 from reservoir 550 and out spear 420 via channel 522. Operations of controller 620 may include igniting charge 530, delaying for a time prior to igniting charge 530, detecting impact of electrode 600 prior to igniting charge 530, detecting delivery of the current to a target one or more times prior to igniting charge 530, and/or detecting a combination of impact and delivery of current prior to igniting charge 530.

In another implementation, an electrode includes spear 110, reservoir 112, plunger 114, and mover 116. Because this implementation does not include a detector, delivery of the drug cannot be metered, so an entire amount of the drug in reservoir 112 is delivered to target 150. For example, electrode 500, as discussed above, performs the functions of this implementation. Electrode 500 delivers the entire amount of drug 552 from reservoir 550 once plunger 540 starts delivery.

Another reason that electrode 500 delivers the entire amount of drug 552 of reservoir 550 is because plunger 540 and seal 542 are moved by pyrotechnic charge 530. Metered delivery is best accomplished by starting movement of a plunger and then stopping movement of a plunger in accordance with an amount of the drug delivered. Once a pyrotechnic is ignited, it is difficult to stop the generation of the rapidly expanding gas to stop movement of the plunger, so the entire amount of drug 552 is delivered from reservoir 550. Delivery of current through a target, as discuss above with respect to one or more electrodes, ionizes air in gap 516 to ignite pyrotechnic 530 to move plunger 540 to deliver drug 552 to a target.

As discussed above, dosage selection may be accomplished by selecting a set of electrodes for launching toward a target and/or metering deliver of an amount of a drug to a target. Electrodes that deliver an entire amount of a drug from a reservoir are suitable for use in dosage selection by selection of a set of electrodes for launch. Electrodes that meter delivery of an amount of a drug are suitable for use in dosage selection by metering and/or dosage selection by selection of a set of electrodes.

Cartridge 200 and projectile 300 include two or more electrodes. The electrodes of cartridge 200 and projectile 300 may include electrodes that are suitable for electrode selection and/or metering to deliver a dosage. A cartridge and a projectile may be launched toward a target by a launch device. As discussed above, a launch device for cartridge 200 may include handles for the TASER brand ECDs. A launch device for projectile 300 may include a shotgun.

Cartridge 200 includes electrodes 212, 222, and 232; wire 214, 224, and 234; propellant 210, 220, and 230; and indicator 240. Electrodes 212, 222, and 232 may perform the functions of an electrode as discussed above. Electrodes 212, 222, and 232 may include any of the implementations of an electrode discussed above. Implementations of electrodes 212, 222, and 232 include implementations that deliver an entire amount of the drug stored by the electrode and metering delivery of the drug stored by the electrode.

A propellant may launch an electrode. A propellant may provide a rapidly expanding gas to propel an electrode away from a cartridge toward a target. A propellant may include a pyrotechnic that burns and/or a container of compressed gas that is pierced to provide a rapidly expanding gas. A propellant may provide a rapidly expanding gas responsive to a signal (e.g., current, voltage, digital, analog). A launch device may provide a signal to a propellant to launch an electrode. A signal to launch may be separate from a current for impeding locomotion of a target. Provision of a current to impede locomotion may provide a signal to launch.

A wire electrically couples the launch device to an electrode. Upon launch, a wire deploys from cartridge 200 to extend from cartridge 200 such that the electrode remains tethered to cartridge 200 by the wire. During use of an electrode to provide a drug and/or a current to a target, cartridge 200 remains coupled to launch device 250, so that upon deployment wire 214, 224, and/or 234 extend from launch device 250 to their respective electrode at or near the target. A launch device may provide a current through the target via the wire and the electrode. The electrical coupling between a launch device, a wire, and an electrode may include gaps of air that are ionized to establish a circuit to provide the current as discussed above.

An indicator provides information to a launch device. An indicator may provide information to a launch device while the cartridge is coupled to the launch device. An indicator provides information (e.g., data) about the cartridge. Information may include a length (e.g., reach, extent) of a wire, a total number of electrodes available in the cartridge, a number of electrodes launched, a drug type stored by each electrode, an amount of drug stored by each electrode, and a concentration of a drug stored by each electrode. An indicator may provide (e.g., send, transmit) information in any conventional manner (e.g., digital, analog, parallel, serial, synchronous, asynchronous).

Launch device 250 includes user interface 252; processing circuit 254; launch control 260; signal generator 258; and sensor 256.

A user interface enables a human user to provide information for the operation of a launch device. A user interface may receive information from a user. A user interface may provide information (e.g., data, signal) to a processing circuit to perform an operation in accordance with the information. A user interface may control performance of an operation in accordance with information provided by a user. A user interface may include components (e.g., switches, touch screens, triggers) for manipulation by a user to provide information. A user may operate a component of the user interface or a combination of components to provide information as to an operation for performance by the launch device. Components of a user interface may be of a size suitable for manual manipulation by a human (e.g., a trigger, buttons, switches, touch screen). A user interface may receive information in one form (e.g., digital, analog, physical position, magnetic, electrical, mechanical) and provide information in another form.

A launch control may control the launch of one or more electrodes. Control of a launch may include providing a signal to a propellant so that the propellant propels one or more electrodes. A launch controller may control the launch of one or more electrodes of a cartridge. A launch controller may control launch of each electrode of a cartridge individually, groups of electrodes, or all electrodes at substantially the same time. A launch controller may launch electrodes in accordance with an operation of a processing circuit. A launch controller may launch electrodes selected by a processing circuit for launch. A launch controller may launch a set of electrodes selected from the electrodes of a cartridge.

A signal generator provides an electrical potential (e.g., current, voltage). A signal generator may provide one or more pulses of current to a target via an electrode. A signal generator may be electrically coupled to an electrode after launch of the electrode toward the target. A signal generator may remain in a launch device after launch of an electrode and provide a current to the electrode via a wire. A signal generator may be launched toward a target in a projectile to provide a current through a target.

A signal generator may be control by a processing circuit. Control of a signal generator may include specifying a voltage magnitude, an amount of current, a characteristic (e.g., high time, low time, start time, end time, maximum voltage, minimum voltage) of a pulse of current, and a repetition rate (e.g., period) of pulses of current. A processing circuit may provide information to a signal generator. A signal generator may provide a current in accordance with the information. A signal generator may provide information to a processing circuit. For example, a signal generator may monitor delivery of a current to a target and provide information to the processing circuit regarding delivery. A processing circuit may use information provided by a signal generator for controlling a subsequent delivery of a current by the signal generator. A signal generator may include circuits that operate responsive to a processing circuit to provide a current having desired characteristics.

A signal generator may include a power supply (e.g., battery, charged capacitor) for providing a current.

A sensor may receive information (e.g., data, signal, mechanical, magnetic). A sensor may receive information from an indicator. A sensor may receive information regarding (e.g., describing, about) a cartridge. Information received by a sensor about a cartridge may include such information as provided by an indicator about a cartridge as discussed above. A sensor may receive information in any conventional manner. A sensor may convert information from one form (e.g., digital, analog, physical position, magnetic, electrical) to another form. A sensor may provide information to a processing circuit. A sensor may provide information in any conventional manner.

Processing circuit 254 may perform the functions of a processing circuit discussed herein. Processing circuit 254 may include any of the components and/or implementations of a processing circuit discussed herein.

A processing circuit may control the operation of a launch device. A processing circuit may receive information from a user interface. A processing circuit may perform and/or control an operation of a launch device in accordance with information received from a user interface. A processing circuit may control operation of a launch controller as discussed above. A processing circuit may select (e.g., identify) electrodes for launch by a launch controller. A processing circuit may identify a set of electrodes selected from the electrodes of a cartridge for launch by a launch controller. A processing circuit may control the operation of a signal generator as discussed above. A processing circuit may receive information from a sensor as discussed above. A processing circuit may perform and/or control an operation of a launch device in accordance with information received by a sensor.

For example, launch device 250 may cooperate with cartridge 200 to launch electrodes 212, 222, and/or 232 toward a target to provide a current through and/or a drug to the target. A human user may provide information via user interface 252 to affect a performance of launch device 250. A human user may pull a trigger of user interface 252 to indicate a desire to launch electrodes toward a target. User interface 252 provides information regarding a trigger pull to processing circuit 254. Responsive to processing circuit 254, launch control 260 provides a signal to one or more or propellant 210, 220, and 230 to launch one or more of electrodes 212, 22, or 232. Electrodes selected for launch are propelled by their respective propellant 210, 220, or 230 toward a target. During flight, electrodes 212, 22, and 232 pull wires 214, 224, and 234 respectively behind them. Once the launched electrodes establish electrical contact with the target, signal generator 258 may provide a current through the target via the wires of the launched electrodes to impede locomotion of the target. Processing circuit 254 controls provision of the current by signal generator 258 such that the current is provided as a series of current pulses. A drug may also be provided from the launched electrodes responsive to the current provided by signal generator 256.

Sensor 256 receives information about cartridge 200 as discussed above. Sensor 256 receives information regarding an amount of drug stored by each electrode. Sensor 256 provides such information to processing circuit 254. A user may operate controls of user interface 252 to provide information regarding a target characteristic as discussed above. For example, a human user may operate a control (e.g., rotary switch, one or more switches, touch screen) of user interface 252 to indicate a size (e.g., mass) of a target. Selections of size may include small size, medium size, and large size. User interface 252 provides such information to processing circuit 254. Processing circuit 254 uses the information regarding the characteristics of the target and the information regarding the amount of drug stored by each electrode to determine the number of electrodes to launch to provide a dosage of the drug to the target. If the concentration of the drug stored in electrodes 212, 22, and 232 is different, sensor 256 may provide such information to processing circuit 254 and processing circuit may use the information to select specific electrodes from electrodes 212, 22, and 232 to provide a dosage of the drug to the target.

When selecting electrodes for providing a drug to the target, a processing circuit may consider the number of electrodes (e.g., one, two, more) that will be launched to establish a circuit through the target to deliver a current through the target.

In the implementation of cartridge 200, electrodes 212, 22, and 232 may be the type of electrodes that delivers the entire amount of stored drug without metering. Processing circuit 254 selects the amount of drug required to deliver a dosage by selecting the number of electrodes and/or specific electrodes for launch toward the target. Processing circuit 254 selects a set of electrodes for launch from electrodes 212, 222, and 232 so that combined amount of drug of the selected electrodes of the set is about equal to a dosage of the drug to be delivered to the target. The set of electrodes for launch may include one or more, up to all, of the electrodes 212, 222, and 232. When selecting a set of electrodes, processing circuit 254 may further consider the concentration of the drug of each electrode. If launch device 250 determines that two electrodes must be launched to establish a circuit through the target for delivery of a current through the target, the amount of drug that will be delivered to the target will be as close to a dosage as possible considering that two electrodes need to be launched.

After a set of electrodes is selected for launch, processing circuit 254 provides information to launch control 260 so that launch control 260 launches the electrodes of the set of electrodes to deliver the dosage of the drug to the target. Signal generator 258 may further provide the current that actuates the mover of the selected electrodes to deliver the drug stored by each electrode and to provide a current through the target.

Projectile 300 includes electrodes 312, 322, and 332; deployer 310, 320, and 330; signal generator 340; and processing circuit 350. Electrodes 312, 322, and 332 may perform the functions of an electrode as discussed above. Electrodes 312, 322, and 332 may include any of the implementations of an electrode discussed above. Implementations of electrodes 312, 322, and 332 include implementations that deliver an entire amount of the drug stored by the electrode and metering delivery of the drug stored by the electrode.

Signal generator 340 performs the functions of a signal generator as discussed above. Signal generator 340 may be controlled by a processing circuit (e.g., processing circuit 350) as discussed above. Signal generator 340 may include a source of energy (e.g., power supply 380) for providing a current through a target via electrodes 312, 322, and/or 332.

A deployer deploys an electrode. A deployer moves an electrode. A deployer moves an electrode toward a target. A deployer may move an electrode responsive to an event. An event may include a force of impact of the projectile with a target, a force of recoil after the projectile impacts a target, expiration of a timer, a release of a holding mechanism (e.g., latch), and a force of launching the projectile. A deployer may move an electrode to establish an electrical coupling with a target. A deployer may move an electrode to contact and/or embed into target tissue. A deployer may use any force (e.g., pyrotechnic, gravity, spring, launch, recoil, movement of target) to move an electrode toward a target. A deployer may use any conventional structure for moving an electrode.

Processing circuit 350 performs the functions of a processing circuit as discussed herein. Processing circuit 350 may control operation of a deployer. Processing circuit 350 may enable a deployer to use a force to move an electrode. Processing circuit 350 may inhibit a deployer from using a force to move an electrode. Processing circuit 350 may control signal generator 340 as discussed above.

A processing circuit maybe programmed with information regarding the electrodes of a cartridge or a projectile. A processing circuit may communicate (e.g., transmit, send, receive) with an electrode to receive information regarding an electrode. Information regarding an electrode may include drug information (e.g., amount, concentration), electrode capability (e.g., capable of metering delivery of a drug, not capable of metering a drug) information, and electrode status (e.g., drug delivered, drug partially delivered, drug not delivered). A processing circuit may provide delivery information (e.g., amount of drug to deliver) to an electrode.

Because processing circuit 350 has or may receive information regarding electrodes 312, 322, and 332, projectile 300 may deliver a dosage to a target using (1) electrode selection; (2) metered deliver; or (3) electrode selection and metered delivery. In an implementation in which processing circuit may receive information from electrodes, processing circuit 350 may query each electrode 312, 322, and 332 to determine information regarding the electrode. If all electrodes are capable of delivering only the entire amount of drug stored in the respective electrodes, processing circuit 350 may select a set of electrodes for launching at a target to deliver a dosage of the drug. Electrodes 312, 322, and 332 may provide processing circuit 350 with information as to their drug delivery capability (e.g., entire amount, metered) and concentration. Processing circuit 350 selects a set of electrodes whose combined amount of drug is substantially equal to a dosage. In an implementation that forms a circuit through a target using two or more electrodes, the set of selected electrodes includes at least two electrodes to establish a circuit through the target to deliver a current through the target. Processing circuit 350 may control deployer 310, 320, and/or 330 to deploy the selected darts toward the target to deliver the dosage.

In the event that one or more of electrodes 312, 322, and 332 are capable of metering delivery of a drug and have sufficient drug stored, processing circuit 350 may provide a selected electrode with information as to an amount of drug to be provided to a target. The electrode meters delivery of the drug so as to deliver the amount of the drug as instructed by processing circuit 350. If only the drug is to be delivered to the target and not a current, a single electrode may be selected for deployment and delivery of a dosage. In an implementation where two or more electrodes form a circuit to deliver a current through a target, the darts that form the circuit may be programmed by processing circuit 350 to deliver a dosage of the drug. One electrode may deliver the entire dosage or the two or more electrodes may cooperate to each provide a portion of the dosage.

In the event that some of electrodes deliver the full amount of drug carried by the electrode and some electrodes are capable of metering delivery of the drug, processing circuit 350 may select a set of electrodes that includes both types of electrodes for providing a dosage to a target. Selected electrodes that can only deliver the full amount of the drug that they carry will deliver their full amount. Selected electrodes that can meter delivery may be instructed by processing circuit 350 on the amount of drug that should be delivered. The combination of the amount of drug from all electrodes is substantially equal to a dosage.

Launch device 360 includes user interface 362, processing circuit 364; launch control 366; and propellant 368.

Processing circuit 364 may perform the functions of a processor discussed herein. Processing circuit 364 may control a launch controller as discussed herein.

Launch controller 366 may perform the functions of a launch controller discussed herein. Launch controller 366 may control an operation of a propellant (e.g., propellant 368) as discussed herein.

Propellant 368 may perform the functions of a propellant as discussed herein; however, operation of propellant 368 operates to propel projectile 300 as opposed to an electrode (e.g., electrodes 312, 322, or 332). Launch of projectile 300 launches all components of projectile toward a target including deployers 310, 320, and 330; electrodes 312, 322, and 332; signal generator 340, processing circuit 350, and power supply 380. Operation of propellant 368 may be controlled by launch control 366. After launch, projectile 300 is not tethered to launch device 360.

User interface 362 may perform the functions of a user interface as discussed herein. User information 362 may provide information regarding a characteristic of a target to processing circuit 364. Processing circuit 364 may provide such information to processing circuit 350 prior to launch of projectile 300 so that processing circuit 350 may use the information about the characteristics of the target to calculate how (e.g., electrode selection, metering) to provide a dosage of the drug to the target.

The foregoing description discusses preferred embodiments of the present invention, which may be changed or modified without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims. Examples listed in parentheses may be used in the alternative or in any practical combination. As used in the specification and claims, the words ‘comprising’, ‘including’, and ‘having’ introduce an open ended statement of component structures and/or functions. In the specification and claims, the words ‘a’ and ‘an’ are used as indefinite articles meaning ‘one or more’. While for the sake of clarity of description, several specific embodiments of the invention have been described, the scope of the invention is intended to be measured by the claims as set forth below.

Claims

1. A cartridge for launching two or more electrodes toward a human or animal target, the electrodes for providing a dosage of a drug and a current to the target, the cartridge for cooperating with a provided launch device, the cartridge comprising:

at least two electrodes, each electrode comprises a respective amount of the drug;

a respective wire for each one electrode that electrically couples the electrode to the launch device; wherein: responsive to an instruction from the launch device, the cartridge deploys two or more electrodes toward the target to establish a circuit through the target; via the wires of the launched electrodes the launch device provides a current through the target to impede locomotion of the target; the launched electrodes provide the dosage of the drug to the target to impede locomotion of the target.

2. The cartridge of claim 1 further comprising a respective propellant for each one of the at least two electrodes whereby each electrode may be launched individually.

3. The cartridge of claim 1 wherein the respective amount of the drug of each one electrode is different than the amount of the drug of the other electrodes.

4. The cartridge of claim 1 wherein the respective amount of the drug of each one electrode is substantially the same as the amount of the drug of the other electrodes.

5. The cartridge of claim 1 wherein:

a user provides indicia regarding a characteristic of the target to the launch device via a user interface; and

the instruction from the launch device to launch one or more electrodes is formed in accordance with the indicia.

6. The cartridge of claim 1 further comprising an indicator, wherein the indicator provides information about the cartridge to the launch device for forming the instruction to launch.

7. The cartridge of claim 1 further comprising an indicator, wherein:

a user provides indicia regarding a characteristic of the target to the launch device via the user interface;

the indicator provides indicia regarding the cartridge to the launch device; and

the instruction from the launch device to launch two or more electrodes is formed in accordance with the indicia of the characteristic and the indicia of the cartridge.

8. An electrode for providing an amount of a drug to a human or animal target and a current through the target to impede locomotion of the target, the electrode launched toward the target by a provided launch device, the electrode comprising:

a spear for entering target tissue;

a reservoir coupled to the spear, the reservoir for holding the amount of the drug;

a plunger for pushing the drug from the reservoir through the spear into target tissue;

a charge; and

a conductive wire that extends between the launch device and the electrode after the electrode is launched toward the target, the wire electrically coupled to the spear and the charge; wherein: the current provided by the launch device via the wire ignites the charge to move the plunger to push the amount of the drug in the reservoir into target tissue.

9. The electrode of claim 8 wherein the current ionizes air in a gap to ignite the charge.

10. An electrode for providing an amount of a drug and a current to a human or animal target to impede locomotion of the target, the electrode launched toward the target by a provided launch device, the electrode comprising:

a spear for entering target tissue;

a reservoir coupled to the spear, the reservoir for holding the amount of the drug;

a plunger for pushing the drug from the reservoir through the spear into target tissue; and

a conductive wire that extends between the launch device and the electrode after the electrode is launched toward the target, the wire for providing a current from the launch device through the target to impede locomotion of the target; wherein

responsive to the current, the plunger pushes the drug from the reservoir to the target to impede locomotion of the target.

11. The electrode of claim 10 wherein the current ignites a pyrotechnic to move the plunger to push the drug.

12. The electrode of claim 10 further comprising a fuse, wherein the current activates the fuse to ignite a pyrotechnic to move the plunger to push the drug from the reservoir to the target.

13. The electrode of claim 10 further comprising a timer, wherein the timer delays ignition of a pyrotechnic to move the plunger to push the drug from the reservoir to the target.

14. The electrode of claim 10 further comprising a coil, wherein the current creates a magnetic field in the coil that moves the plunger to push the drug from the reservoir to the target.