Nonlethal Or Deterrent Patents (Class 102/502)
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Publication number: 20030116051Abstract: An anti-personnel projectile launched from a weapon shell required at impact to have a low lethality consequence, in which the projectile is fitted in the shell in a shape characterized by a blunt end in the direction of flight and maintained in this shape by oppositely directed air resistance and propelling forces to obviate a change of shape during flight that might cause a serious injury.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2002Publication date: June 26, 2003Inventors: Jacob Kravel, Michael Brunn
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Publication number: 20030094113Abstract: A neuromuscular disrupter gun and associated projectile. The projectile contains a capacitor, having either its dielectric or its plates made from liquid. The gun charges the projectile prior to discharge from the gun of the projectile. The projectile holds the charge in flight and discharges on impact. To provide appropriate contact points, the projectile either carries contact wires or is designed to open and emit the liquid upon impact.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2001Publication date: May 22, 2003Applicant: Southwest Research InstituteInventors: Thomas J. Warnagiris, Drew L. Goodlin
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Patent number: 6553913Abstract: A weapon system and projectile are disclosed. The projectile incorporates a rheological fluid, the viscosity of which is adjustable in the presence of an appropriate field of energy. The weapon system includes a launching device (e.g., a gun) for firing the projectile and an energy field generator coupled to the launching device. The energy field generator provides the appropriate field of energy about the projectile to increase the viscosity of the rheological fluid. The projectile can be non-lethal when the rheological fluid has not been subjected to the field of energy and can be made more lethal when the rheological fluid has been subjected to the field of energy.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2001Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Michael J. Wardlaw
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Patent number: 6546874Abstract: Projectile systems are provided herein employing an inhibiting and/or marking substance for impairing/marking a living target, such as a human or animal target. The projectile systems provide effectiveness by impacting the target with sufficient force to cause the target to move into a simultaneously radially dispersing inhibiting/marking substance contained within a capsule of the projectile system. In preferred embodiments, the projectile system includes a generally spherical frangible projectile that is optimally filled to greater than about 50%, more preferably about 75% to 99% of its total volume, most preferably to about 90% of capacity, with the substance to be delivered to the target. One or more frangible projectiles are configured to fit with a shell casing configured to fit within a delivery device.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2002Date of Patent: April 15, 2003Assignee: Jaycor Tactical Systems, Inc.Inventors: Edward J. Vasel, Scott C. Nunan, Gregory A. Niederhaus, Peter G. Coakley
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Patent number: 6543365Abstract: A non-lethal projectile system for non-lethally inhibiting a living target, multi-functional launching devices for delivering the non-lethal projectile systems to a target, methods of assembling the non-lethal projectiles, and tactical methods of the use of the non-lethal projectile, the non-lethal projectile consists of a projectile body to be impacted with a living target and an inhibiting substance within the projectile body, wherein upon impact with the target, the inhibiting substance is dispersed on and about the target. In a variation, the projectile body ruptures upon impact releasing the substance. In another variation, the inhibiting substance is a powdered substance comprising a powdered pepper derived substance, for example, oleoresin capsicum or capsaicin.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2000Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Assignee: Jaycor Tactical Systems, Inc.Inventors: Edward J. Vasel, Scott C. Nunan, Gregory A. Niederhaus, Peter G. Coakley, Eric Wenaas, Roger Behrendt
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Publication number: 20030047105Abstract: A non-lethal projectile system for non-lethally inhibiting a living target, multi-functional launching devices for delivering the non-lethal projectile systems to a target, methods of assembling the non-lethal projectiles, and tactical methods of the use of the non-lethal projectile, the non-lethal projectile consists of a projectile body to be impacted with a living target and an inhibiting substance within the projectile body, wherein upon impact with the target, the inhibiting substance is dispersed on and about the target. In a variation, the projectile body ruptures upon impact releasing the substance. In another variation, the inhibiting substance is a powdered substance comprising a powdered pepper derived substance, for example, oleoresin capsicum or capsaicin.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2002Publication date: March 13, 2003Applicant: Jaycor Tactical Systems, Inc.Inventors: Edward J. Vasel, Scott C. Nunan
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Patent number: 6530962Abstract: The invention herein provides for an improved dye composition for encapsulation in casing structures adapted for projectile motion and rupture upon contact with a target surface, such as paint balls. The dye composition adapted for use in an impact-rupturable capsule of the invention comprises a water-soluble dye and a lipophilic carrier having an oil and an emulsifier, said emulsifier comprising ethoxylated mono- and diglycerides. The invention further provides for an impact-rupturable capsule containing the dye composition. Advantages of the dye composition of the invention include improved consistency and reduced separation of ingredients; greater viscosity and thickness; greater “smearability” and splattering of dye on target surface upon impact and rupture of the casing; and greater water solubility and improved machine washability.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2001Date of Patent: March 11, 2003Assignee: R.P. Scherer Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Frederick R. Stolz
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Patent number: 6499407Abstract: A method of packaging a multiplicity of infrared decoy foils into a canister having an aft end and a drive screw extending therein. The present method allows for the controlled dispensing and dispersal of the decoy foils from within the canister and comprises the initial step of assembling the decoy foils into at least one stack. The stack is advanced into the canister, with a preload being applied to at least a portion of the stack through the use of at least one separator plate cooperatively engaged to the drive screw. The preload applied to the decoy foils is of a force greater than or equal to that required to dispense the decoy foils from the canister.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Meggitt Defense SystemsInventor: Roger D. Brum
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Patent number: 6470805Abstract: Munitions are dropped from military aircraft to quickly combat large area fires within vast threatened regions. Each munition has a shell-shaped case having a chamber containing an air-bag power module and fire retardant. A lid closes one end of the chamber, and switches on the case provide signals for the air-bag power module to suddenly forcefully displace the lid from the chamber by the air-bag module and suddenly forcefully eject the fire retardant from the chamber and out of the case by the air-bag module. Munitions containing fire retardant can be targeted accurately at single hot spots, isolated structures, and along fire lines or can be quickly and accurately dropped to create a protected zone behind an area that has been made not to burn by munitions to protect fire fighters trapped in the path of runaway fires. Munitions are deployed from aircraft by military crewmen without requiring additional training.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2001Date of Patent: October 29, 2002Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Robert Woodall, Felipe Garcia, Chris Doyle
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Patent number: 6453819Abstract: A paint ball grenade includes a base having a chamber for holding a compressed gas, an outer housing mounted on the base, the outer housing including guides through which fluid communication is provided between an interior and exterior of the outer housing, each guide releasably holding a paint ball, a valve arrangement for blocking fluid communication between the chamber and the interior of the housing in a first position and for permitting fluid communication between the chamber and the interior of the housing in a second position, an actuator for opening the valve arrangement to provide fluid communication between the chamber and the interior of the housing to eject the paint balls from the guides, and a reed valve separately associated with each guide for substantially preventing further supply of the compressed gas through each guide after the paint ball therein has been ejected.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2000Date of Patent: September 24, 2002Inventor: Paul R. Coates
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Publication number: 20020129728Abstract: Projectile systems are provided herein employing an inhibiting and/or marking substance for impairing/marking a living target, such as a human or animal target. The projectile systems provide effectiveness by impacting the target with sufficient force to cause the target to move into a simultaneously radially dispersing inhibiting/marking substance contained within a capsule of the projectile system. In preferred embodiments, the projectile system includes a generally spherical frangible projectile that is optimally filled to greater than about 50%, more preferably about 75% to 99% of its total volume, most preferably to about 90% of capacity, with the substance to be delivered to the target. One or more frangible projectiles are configured to fit with a shell casing configured to fit within a delivery device.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2002Publication date: September 19, 2002Applicant: Jaycor Tactical Systems, Inc., a Delaware corporationInventors: Edward J. Vasel, Scott C. Nunan, Gregory A. Niederhaus, Peter G. Coakley
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Publication number: 20020088367Abstract: An air-burst detonation ballistic (10) for grenade launchers. The ballistic (10) can be fired from an unmodified grenade launcher, such as M-79, M-203, Granatpistole, and Mk 19 grenade launchers. The less-than-lethal ballistic (10) comprises a concussion element (13), a phosphorescent (13), and a chemical irritant (11). The nose of the ballistic comprise an energy-absorbing cavity (20) and a switch (21) preventing detonation of the ballistic (10) on impact.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2001Publication date: July 11, 2002Inventors: Gregory B. MacAleese, Jerry Hausner
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Patent number: 6393992Abstract: Projectile systems are provided herein employing an inhibiting and/or marking substance for impairing/marking a living target, such as a human or animal target, which projectile systems are optimized to provide maximum effectiveness by impacting the target with sufficient force to cause the target to move into a simultaneously radially dispersing inhibiting/marking substance contained within a capsule of the projectile system. In preferred embodiments, the projectile system includes a generally spherical capsule that is optimally filled to greater than about 50%, more preferably about 75% to 99% of its total volume, most preferably to about 90% of capacity, with the substance to be delivered to the target. The capsule is preferably formed as two about equal halves.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 1999Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: Jaycor Tactical Systems, Inc.Inventors: Edward J. Vasel, Scott C. Nunan, Gregory A. Niederhaus, Peter G. Coakley
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Patent number: 6374742Abstract: An anti-personnel projectile launched from a 37 mm or 40 mm weapon shell required at impact to have a low lethality consequence, in which the projectile is fitted in the shell in a shape characterized by a blunt end in the direction of flight and maintained in this shape by oppositely directed air resistance and propelling forces to obviate a change of shape during flight that might cause a serious injury.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2000Date of Patent: April 23, 2002Inventors: Michael Brunn, Jacob Kravel
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Patent number: 6371028Abstract: The invention provides a combination of a gun having a barrel and a propellant for launching a projectile from the barrel; and a non-lethal projectile; characterized in that the non-lethal projectile comprises a hollow outer casing formed from a resiliently deformable material, and a plurality of balls within the casing, the outer casing being deformed as it travels along the gun barrel under pressure from the propellant but being sufficiently resilient to resile to a substantially undeformed state upon leaving the gun barrel.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 1998Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Inventor: Michael Ernest Saxby
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Publication number: 20010054367Abstract: A control agent delivery system useful for dispersing a pesticide, herbicide, fungicide or other biocide around a target or target area that is not directly accessible or that is hazardous to the user. The system includes a separable, two-part projectile containing a control agent disposed in a powder, liquid or gel dispersal medium, together with a gas-propelled, projectile launching device. A method of use of the subject system that causes the projectile to perform differently, depending upon the manner of launch, is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2001Publication date: December 27, 2001Inventors: Robert Clarence Pearce, Dale Vilmer Kiplinger
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Patent number: 6305290Abstract: The present invention is for a method of making a dummy ammunition round for a firearm which includes the steps of selecting a new or used metal casing of a used cartridge having a base end and an open end and then cutting an aperture in the base of the selected new or used metal casing. A polymer insert member is then formed having two end portions and shaped to fit into the selected metal casing with one end of the insert member having a protrusion sized to fit into the aperture cut through the casing base and the other end portion having a generally bullet shape for protruding from the open end of the metal casing.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2000Date of Patent: October 23, 2001Inventors: James S. Stimmell, Marshall F. Todd
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Patent number: 6302028Abstract: A very highly deformable projectile comprising at least one envelope that is fine, flexible, and elastic, filled with a divided solid substance, deformation thereof occurring only on impact, and of a diameter that is sufficient to limit penetration on impact with energy being rapidly spread out by instantaneous enlargement.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 1999Date of Patent: October 16, 2001Assignee: Isher (S.A.R.L.)Inventors: Richard Guillot-Ulmann, Gerard Hamy
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Patent number: 6298788Abstract: A modular crowd control munition 10 fires a large number of non-lethal soft pellets into a crowd 100 using an explosive charge. The munition 10 contains a pellet matrix 22 that houses the soft pellets 40, and uses a low energy explosive sheet material 50 at the back of the munition 10 to disperse the soft pellets 40. The munition 10 is used for close-in, “last resort”, crowd control to replace the necessity of using deadly force.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2000Date of Patent: October 9, 2001Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: John W. Woods, Brian Edward Fuchs, Gerard I. Gillen, Gary G. Fairbanks
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Patent number: 6298787Abstract: A non-lethal kinetic energy system comprises a propellant means in mechanical communication with the combination of a personnel target proximity detection means, an air bag carried in an uninflated condition, and a means to inflate the air bag responsive to a signal provided by the proximity detection means as the system approaches a personnel target. The system may include a delay element for selective adjustment of the kinetic energy delivered to the personnel target. The invention also provides a method of operating a non-lethal kinetic energy system comprising the steps of deploying the system toward a personnel target, sensing the proximity of the target, sending a signal to an air bag inflation means at a predetermined distance from the target, and inflating the air bag before impacting the target.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 1999Date of Patent: October 9, 2001Assignee: Southwest Research InstituteInventor: Thomas J. Warnagiris
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Patent number: 6295933Abstract: The present invention relates to a non-lethal projectile for a firearm composed of a novel, soft and elastic, composite material comprising a polymeric organic matrix and a pulverulent metallic filler, with a relative density of between 4 and 22, dispersed in the polymeric matrix. The composite material has a relative density of between 1.0 and 2.9 and a Shore A hardness of between 2 and 30. The polymeric organic matrix is a crosslinked polybutadiene comprising polybutadiene chains with a mass of between 500 and 10,000 connected by bridges. The projectile according to the invention makes it possible to neutralize an animal or a person without endangering his life and without inflicting serious injuries, even when firing at a short range of less than 5 m.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1999Date of Patent: October 2, 2001Assignee: SNPEInventors: Bernard Dubocage, Jacques Maucourt
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Patent number: 6289815Abstract: A device for dispersing birds in airport areas, including a self-propelled projectile with a delayed firing element (15, 18, 27, 29) and a sound-effect charge (9) designed to scare birds away and housed in said projectile.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1999Date of Patent: September 18, 2001Assignee: Etienne Lacroix Tous Artifices S.A.Inventors: Raymond Tougeron, Daniel Casenave
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Patent number: 6283037Abstract: The present invention is a non-lethal shot gun round. The round includes an outer plastic hull inserted into a metal base to form a round casing. Inside the base is a propellent charge. Positioned over the propellent charge is a wad. Above the wad is an elastomeric bag filled with a packed particulate load. In addition a dye may be added into the elastomeric bag to allow marking of the targeted object.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1999Date of Patent: September 4, 2001Inventor: Procopio J. Sclafani
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Patent number: 6269726Abstract: An armored, motorized unit incorporating a gimbaled gun sighted video camera and an attached multi-shot TASER® cartridge firing system to remotely fire one cartridge at a time at a remotely selected target. A remotely located operator rotates the unit in azimuth and elevation to aim at a target within the range of the firing system. The firing system has multiple cartridges that can be rotated into a boresight position, one at a time, and armed, one at a time, for firing a pair of wire-tethered contacts such as darts at the selected target.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1999Date of Patent: August 7, 2001Inventor: James F. McNulty, Sr.
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Patent number: 6257146Abstract: A projectile for firing from an ammunition shell. The projectile includes an elongated hollow body of a resilient material, the hollow body further having a trailing end, a mid-portion, and a leading end, the leading end being closed and the trailing end having an aperture providing access to the interior surface. A propellant is included near the leading end of the hollow body and against the interior surface of the elongated hollow body, so that the interior surface of the hollow body between the trailing end of the hollow body and the mid-portion of the hollow body defines a hollow space. The projectile is adapted for placement within the ammunition shell to allow firing of the projectile from a shotgun or the like.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 1998Date of Patent: July 10, 2001Assignee: Stoneco, Inc.Inventor: Christopher P. Stonebraker
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Patent number: 6253680Abstract: A diversionary device has a housing having at least one opening and containing a non-explosive propellant and a quantity of fine powder packed within the housing, with the powder being located between the propellant and the opening. When the propellant is activated, it has sufficient energy to propel the powder through the opening to produce a cloud of powder outside the housing. An igniter is also provided for igniting the cloud of powder to create a diversionary flash and bang, but at a low enough pressure to avoid injuring nearby people.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 1999Date of Patent: July 3, 2001Assignee: Sandia CorporationInventor: Mark C. Grubelich
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Patent number: 6230630Abstract: An aerodynamic projectile, preferably a non-lethal projectile, including a projectile shell having an aerodynamic structure and a controlled center of gravity which exhibits improved aerodynamics and resulting accuracy and which fractures in a predetermined pattern to disperse a fill contained therein. A method of making an aerodynamic projectile.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 1999Date of Patent: May 15, 2001Assignee: Perfect Circle Paintball, Inc.Inventors: Gary E. Gibson, Michael A. Varacins
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Patent number: 6213024Abstract: A projectile with an Air Pressure Wave Generator, a battery, fuze, safe and arm system, detonator system, and ancillary circuitry. The Air Pressure Wave Generator contains a supersonic or subsonic nozzle, an ogive, and a secondary propellant chamber, which contains a conventional high explosive and is consistent with the “form-fit” of the weapon rifling system, and designed so as to produce the desired Air Pressure Wave impulse on the target. The projectile also has chemical agent(s) and marker(s) inside the secondary propellant chamber, and/or inside the Air Pressure Wave Generator section that is located intermediate between the nozzle and projectile housing. The types and amounts of chemical agent(s) and marker(s) are consistent with the Air Pressure Wave Generator design to entrap the chemical agent(s) and marker(s) in the core or central section of the APW packet.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1998Date of Patent: April 10, 2001Assignee: United States of AmericaInventors: Louis J. Jasper, Jr., George K. Lucey, Jr., Thomas J. Gher, Louis E Jasper
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Patent number: 6209461Abstract: The present invention relates to a non-lethal projectile. The projectile (1) comprises a longitudinal body (5) having internally a longitudinal striker (55) suitable for perforating a container (47) of fluid under pressure in controlled manner, in particular by impact of the projectile (1) on a target. The striker (55) has an internal passage (59) opening to the outside of the body (5) via channels (60) made through a rigid wall (35) secured to the body (5) such that the outlet offered to the fluid under pressure remains disengaged even if the impact is accompanied by the deformation of the container (47). The fluid contained in the container (47) can thus escape and spread over the target even in such a case.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 1999Date of Patent: April 3, 2001Assignee: Etienne Lacroix Tous Artifices S.A.Inventors: Régis Riffet, Walter Simonella, Guy Valembois
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Patent number: 6202562Abstract: An anti-personnel projectile launched from a 12 gauge shotgun shell required at impact to have a low lethality consequence, in which the projectile is fitted in the shell in a shape characterized by a blunt end in the direction of flight and maintained in this shape by oppositely directed air resistance and propelling forces to obviate a change of shape during flight that might cause a serious injury.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 1999Date of Patent: March 20, 2001Inventors: Michael Brunn, Jacob Kravel
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Patent number: 6164209Abstract: An ammunition cartridge has a tube extending along a central longitudinal axis from an aft end to a fore end. The tube has an interior surface and an exterior surface. A metallic head has a sleeve portion secured to the tube along an aft section of the tube and has a centrally-apertured web portion spanning the sleeve portion so as to form a base of the cartridge. A basewad is contained within the tube and is separately formed therefrom. The basewad is located proximate the aft end of the tube. The basewad has a generally cylindrical exterior surface engaging the interior surface of the tube, an aft surface contacting the metal head, an interior surface. The interior surface extends from a generally forward-facing inner portion, forward and outward to a generally inward-facing fore portion so as to define a skirt portion of the basewad between the exterior surface and interior surface. At least one projectile is carried within a fore volume of the tube. A propellant charge is located aft of the projectile.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1999Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Assignee: Olin CorporationInventors: Gregory C. Best, Scott H. Mayfield, Brian B. Belknap, Morris C. Buenenmann, Jr., Robert J. Gardner, Alan J. Corzine
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Patent number: 6145441Abstract: A frangible payload-dispensing projectile has a spherical capsule filled h a dispersible fill material. The exterior surface of the capsule has a plurality of spaced-apart dimples formed therein. Thickness at the base of each dimple is insufficient to withstand impact forces delivered thereto upon contact with a target whereas thickness between dimples is sufficient to withstand launch forces.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1998Date of Patent: November 14, 2000Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Robert Woodall, Felipe Garcia
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Patent number: 6065404Abstract: A re-usable simulated grenade is provided that may be utilized by soldiers training with a multiple integrated laser engagement system (MILES). The simulated grenade includes a central core having a blast chamber that contains a non-lethal quantity of an explosive detonated by a manually actuatable detonator mechanism. The core has a plurality of omni-directional passages containing a filer which is ejected to simulate the blast pattern of an actual grenade. A plurality of transducers such as infrared LED's, acoustic transducers or RF transducers are located on the core for emitting signals detectable by a plurality of sensors worn by a player within a predetermined proximity of the simulated grenade. A circuit including a pressure sensitive switch is located in the core and is connected to the transducers for energizing the same when the explosive is detonated. A player identification code (PID) is encoded onto the signals emitted by the transducers.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 1998Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Assignee: Cubic Defense Systems, Inc.Inventors: Allen E. Ripingill, Jr., Larry W. Lind
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Patent number: 6041712Abstract: The invention is a non lethal weapon cartridge comprising a projectile and means for propelling the projectile through a weapon barrel. A munition of this type can be employed by soldiers during operations-other-than-war, such as riot control during humanitarian missions, or by law enforcement personnel when a lethal response is not warranted. The projectile comprises a full-bore projectile body fitted with a compliant nose. The projectile is designed to be spin-stabilized such that it will fly, and impact, nose first, while describing a ballistic trajectory. The projectile is intended to be launched from a rifled weapon tube. The rifling imparts the spin necessary to achieve dynamic stability. The propulsion system utilizes a modern smokeless propellant in combination with a high-low technique to produce consistent interior ballistics.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1997Date of Patent: March 28, 2000Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: David H. Lyon
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Patent number: 6012395Abstract: A baton projetile comprises a case (1) of low density polyethylene, and a core (2) of a soft material such as a thermoplastic gel modified rubber. An air gap (4) is optionally formed at the front end of the baton projectile between the core (2) and the case (1). Upon impact with a target at acceptable forces the air pocket (4) reduces the speed of sound of the impact shockwave to reduce the risk of unaccepeablc bone injury to the target. At higher than acceptable impact forces, the case (1) ruptures and the core (2) spreads out to radially disperse the excess impact energy and to present a larger impact area to the target so that the risk of unacceptable penetration and trauma injury to the target is reduced.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1998Date of Patent: January 11, 2000Assignee: Constantia (International) LimitedInventor: Michael Ernest Saxby
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Patent number: 5996504Abstract: The present invention provides a viable, practical and useful alternative to conventional metal barbed wire that is both portable and easily deployed and has a long storage shelf life. This alternative is a cost effective alternative to metal barbed wire that is reusable, recyclable and unaffected by climactic conditions. There present invention also provides a means for rapid deployment of a permanent or temporary barrier for situations as varied as repairing a breach in a fenced enclosure or providing a no-cross zone in event of civil disturbance. This means is a self-deploying storage canister for the plastic barbed wire which uses a explosive charge for deployment.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 1998Date of Patent: December 7, 1999Inventor: Samuel R. Lowery
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Patent number: 5996503Abstract: A reusable gas-powered hand grenade is provided. A hand-held housing defi one or more launch tubes. A projectile is loaded in each launch tube with an obturator being positioned therein between the projectile and the launch tube's muzzle end. A sealed reservoir is maintained in the housing for storing a gas under pressure. A rupturing device is mounted in the housing for breaking the reservoir's seal upon impact therewith. A triggering mechanism coupled to the rupturing device maintains separation between the rupturing device and the seal until the triggering mechanism is activated. Once activated, the triggering mechanism moves the rupturing device to impact the seal so that gas pressure propels the projectile and obturator from the launch tube.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 1998Date of Patent: December 7, 1999Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Robert Woodall, Felipe Garcia
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Patent number: 5988036Abstract: A ballistically deployed restraining net system including a cartridge receivable within a barrel, the cartridge having a base and an opposing open end. There is a restraining net packaged in the cartridge and a set of weights attached to the restraining net and packaged within the cartridge between the base of the cartridge and the restraining net. A deployment charge ejects the restraining net and the set of weights out of the barrel and out of the cartridge and a spreader charge deploys the weights after the net and the set of weight exit the cartridge so that the weights overtake the net in flight.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 1999Date of Patent: November 23, 1999Assignee: Foster-Miller, Inc.Inventors: Arnis Mangolds, Michael David Farinella, Daniel Rene Deguire, Robert Lee Cardenas
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Patent number: 5965839Abstract: A power device includes at least two power conversion circuits respectively having at least one of switching elements, at least one of which switching elements in these conversion circuits being used in common as an element constituting the at least two different power conversion circuits, a control device providing at least a period in which at least one of currents flowing from at least one of the different power conversion circuits to the commonly used switching element has a polarity inverse to at least the other one of the currents flowing from at least the other one of the power conversion circuits, so as to cancel each other, and a unit for detecting the state of the respective conversion circuits. The operation of the switching elements is thereby made modifiable in accordance with a lowering in the resistance of a load of the device, and the withstand voltage of the elements can be prevented effectively from rising even upon any fluctuation in the load.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 1996Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Assignee: JaycorInventors: Edward J. Vasel, Scott C. Nunan, Gregory A. Niederhaus, Peter G. Coakley
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Patent number: 5962806Abstract: An projectile and method of using same employ a projectile body; an electric circuit housed within the projectile body; a plurality of electrodes, coupled to the electric circuit, for delivering an electrical shock to the target; and attachment means, coupled to the projectile body, for attaching the projectile to the target.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1996Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignee: JaycorInventors: Peter G. Coakley, Edward J. Vasel, Scott C. Nunan, Gregory A. Niederhaus, Norbert C. Wild, Jr., Charles E. Mallon, Raymond Denson
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Patent number: 5936190Abstract: An improved, precision shooting, safety oriented, high speed projectile (10) comprising a non-toxic, soft, hollow, capsule (12) formed of a plurality of portions joined together at at least one seam line (14), said seam line (14) being the weakest point of the capsule (12), with the greatest length of the capsule (12) alignable along the length of a gun barrel, whereby said capsule (12) will generally consistently impact on an essentially predetermined portion of the capsule (12) relative to the centerline of the initial direction of flight of the capsule and a colored, non-toxic, fill material disposed in said capsule (12) for ejection therefrom, the angle of at least one seam line (14) being generally consistent relative to the centerline of the initial direction of flight, upon rupture of said capsule (12) at at least one seam line (14) upon impact of said projectile (10) on a soft solid target. The capsule (12) is preferably elastic gelatin.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 1995Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Inventor: Steven Craig Buzick
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Patent number: 5915694Abstract: An aerial decoy comprising a fuselage having forward and aft ends. Disposed within the fuselage are a plurality of decoy discs. Rotatably connected to the forward end of the fuselage is a ram air turbine which is cooperatively engaged to the decoy discs such that the rotation of the ram air turbine facilitates the dispensation of the decoy discs from the aft end of the fuselage.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 1998Date of Patent: June 29, 1999Inventor: Roger D. Brum
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Patent number: 5898125Abstract: A ballistically deployed restraining net system including a cartridge receivable within a barrel, the cartridge having a base and an opposing open end. There is a restraining net packaged in the cartridge and a set of weights attached to the restraining net and packaged within the cartridge between the base of the cartridge and the restraining net. A deployment charge ejects the restraining net and the set of weights out of the barrel and out of the cartridge and a spreader charge deploys the weights after the net and the set of weight exit the cartridge so that the weights overtake the net in flight.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 1997Date of Patent: April 27, 1999Assignee: Foster-Miller, Inc.Inventors: Arnis Mangolds, Michael David Farinella, Daniel Rene Deguire, Robert Lee Cardenas
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Patent number: 5880398Abstract: A dual-purpose bullet is provided consisting of a thermoplastic body, a base cap, and a pressed powder core. The bullet in the preferred embodiment can either penetrate destroying and disrupting large volumes of human tissue or not penetrate the human tissue delivering a strong shock event and creating a thermal nuisance. The lethal mode is achieved by a high-velocity launch of the bullet without ignition of the igniter mixture and pressed powder core. The less-than-lethal mode is achieved by a low-velocity launch with ignition of first the pressed powder core and softening of the plastic projectile body.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 1997Date of Patent: March 9, 1999Assignee: Scientific Solutions Inc.Inventors: Michael Gerard Crilly, Maurice Edward Grudza, David Charles Jann, Hugh Harper Gibbs
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Patent number: 5852254Abstract: Protective device for protection of rapidly moving objects such as aircraft or the like against homing heads that react to radiation, in particular infrared radiation, emitted by the aircraft, and that have a destructive charge. The protective device has at least one dispenser arranged on the object to be protected, and at least one effective body (flare), such as a spot flare or the like, that can be launched therefrom. The effective body has at least one decoy charge that can be at least partially ignited at a distance from the object and which, upon decomposition, temporarily forms an apparent target body that spectrally simulates, in a way relevant to the homing head, the target signature of the object to be protected.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1996Date of Patent: December 22, 1998Assignee: Buck Werke GmbH & Co.Inventor: Norbert Wardecki
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Patent number: 5831199Abstract: An immobilization weapon of the type which imparts an electrical voltage across a live target using a projectile launched toward the target from a distance, employs a projectile having two connecters. One such connecter extends from the projectile in fixed relation thereto. The other such connecter is launched from the projectile at or near the target to assure proper spacing between the connecters irrespective of the distance to the target. In the preferred embodiment, the secondarily launched connecter is actuated by current through the target when the projectile is in proximity to the impact surface of the target.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 1997Date of Patent: November 3, 1998Assignee: James McNulty, Jr.Inventors: James McNulty, Jr., John F. Chudy, II
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Patent number: 5821450Abstract: An incapacitating composition, for example of the type containing at least one incapacitating active ingredient is described, characterised in that it contains, as the active ingredient, a synergistic mixture of a piperidide, such as the piperine extracted from certain peppers, and of capsaicinoids extracted from certain capsicums. The composition is in the form of a solution, or combined with a powder, optionally diluted in an immiscible diluent The composition spraying device comprises an aerosol or a spray lance for the solution or the powder, or pyrotechnic or smoke-producing systems, weapons using ammunition comprising capsules of the powder or liquid containing the incapacitating composition, which ammunition is intended to be fired and to explode on the target or in the space surrounding the target.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1997Date of Patent: October 13, 1998Assignee: Societe Mediterranneenne D'AerosolsInventor: Jose Fedida
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Patent number: 5817970Abstract: A projectile, particularly for nonlethal active components. The projectile has a disintegratable shell with pyrotechnic means. The projectile has two or more shell layers made of explosive foil, each alternating with another shell layer made of supportive foil material, between a radially outer shell layer made of supportive foil material and a radially inner protective shell. The different layers made of explosive foil can be ignited sequentially when viewed radially from the outside to the inside.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1997Date of Patent: October 6, 1998Assignee: Daimler-Benz Aerospace AGInventor: Johannes Feierlein
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Patent number: 5814753Abstract: The present invention pertains to a device with nonlethal interference active bodies for combating aircraft, which violate or do not heed flight bans, etc., and can be forced to land due to vibrations and interferences in the air current on the aerodynamic surfaces. A series of embodiments are described and depicted in the figures of the drawing.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 1995Date of Patent: September 29, 1998Assignee: Daimler-Benz Aerospace AGInventor: Ulrich Rieger
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Patent number: 5789694Abstract: An impulse generating tool for breaking up rock has a barrel, a breech body for a cartridge (50) loaded with gas producing propellant (70) and a firing mechanism for firing the cartridge. A hole is drilled in the rock and filled with water. The barrel is passed down the hole and the cartridge is fired. Shockwaves break up the rock. A firing pin (42) of the firing mechanism is off-set (56) from a centerline (54) of the breech body, and the cartridge, which is of a shotgun type, has a rim-fire percussion cap (63) complemental to the off-set of the firing pin. Conventional shotgun ammunition cannot be fired with the tool, and cartridges for the tool cannot be fired by a conventional shotgun.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Denel (Proprietary) LimitedInventor: Johann Mey