US20170045338A1

US20170045338A1 - Three-dimensional target for conducted electrical weapons

Info

Publication number: US20170045338A1
Application number: US14/826,816
Authority: US
Inventors: James McGovern
Original assignee: Raptor Enterprises Inc
Current assignee: Raptor Enterprises Inc
Priority date: 2015-08-14
Filing date: 2015-08-14
Publication date: 2017-02-16
Also published as: WO2017062098A2

Abstract

A humanoid-shaped target for a conducted electrical weapon includes a target body having a three-dimensional shape that represents a corresponding portion of a human body. The target body is configured to receive and stop incoming projectiles from the conducted electrical weapon and to retain the incoming projectiles at least partially within an interior volume of the target body. The target body includes an electrically-conductive material configured to conduct an electric current provided by the conducted electrical weapon between the incoming projectiles when the incoming projectiles are retained at least partially within the interior volume of the target body. In some embodiments, the target body includes multiple target zones arranged adjacent to each other along an outer surface of the target body. The multiple target zones may have differing material properties (e.g., differing densities and/or differing electrical conductivities).

Description

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates generally to a practice target for conducted electrical weapons. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a three-dimensional humanoid-shaped target that conducts electric current for use in training with conducted electrical weapons.
Conducted electrical weapons (sometimes called electroshock weapons, electronically controlled weapons, or electronically controlled devices) are incapacitant weapons that can incapacitate a subject without causing significant harm. Examples of conducted electrical weapons include TASERS, stun guns, electric shock prods, stun shields, and the like. Conducted electrical weapons generally work by delivering an electric shock to the subject which disrupts superficial muscle functions. This effect is known as neuromuscular incapacitation.
The human nervous system communicates using electrical impulses. The central nervous system (e.g., the brain and spinal cord) processes information from the body and makes decisions. The peripheral nervous system includes sensory nerves and motor nerves. Sensory nerves carry sensory information (e.g., temperature, touch, etc.) from the body to the central nervous system. Motor nerves carry commands from the central nervous system to the muscles to control movement, which can be an involuntary response to sensory information. For example, a person may have an involuntary reaction to pull his or her hand away from a hot object. Conducted electrical weapons typically cause neuromuscular incapacitation by stimulating both the sensory and motor nerves. This causes a subject to be unable to control muscle functions, thereby incapacitating the subject. Neuromuscular incapacitation is not dependent upon pain and is effective on subjects with a high level of pain tolerance.
Some conducted electrical weapons (e.g., TASERS) include a handheld housing that contains an energy source (e.g., a battery) and can be used to fire tethered projectiles toward a subject. When the projectiles embed in the subject, the subject's body completes the electric circuit. High voltage, low current, electric pulses are then delivered to the subject through thin flexible wires. The electric current flows into the subject through one of the wires and then back to the energy source through the other wire. If the tethered projectiles miss the subject, the electric current may arc between the projectiles rather than flowing through the subject's body. Some conducted electrical weapons emit a sound or tone when a successful hit is achieved, which is measured by the electrical resistance between the tethered projectiles. The electrical resistance will be low if a hit is successful (since the electric current will flow through the subject's body) and high if the hit is unsuccessful (since the electric current will arc through the air).
Training with a conducted electrical weapon can be difficult since conventional training targets are not electrically conductive. Therefore, even when a successful hit on a training target is achieved, the conducted electrical weapon may not register a hit and the electric current may arc through the air. Some two-dimensional training targets include a flexible sheet of electrically conductive material behind a paper sheet. However, such two-dimensional training targets do not adequately represent an actual human subject.

SUMMARY

One implementation of the present disclosure is a humanoid-shaped target for a conducted electrical weapon. The target includes a target body having a three-dimensional shape that represents a corresponding portion of a human body. The target body is configured to receive and stop incoming projectiles from the conducted electrical weapon and to retain the incoming projectiles at least partially within an interior volume of the target body. The target body includes an electrically-conductive material configured to conduct an electric current provided by the conducted electrical weapon between the incoming projectiles when the incoming projectiles are retained at least partially within the interior volume of the target body.
In some embodiments, the target body is a three-dimensional molding of the corresponding portion of the human body. In some embodiments, the electrically-conductive material is a urethane foam.
In some embodiments, the target body includes a torso portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents a human torso. In some embodiments, the target body further includes one or more arm portions having three-dimensional shapes that represent human arms. The arms portions may be releasably coupled to the torso portion and repositionable relative to the torso portion. In some embodiments, the target body further includes a head portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents a human head. The head portion may be releasably coupled to the torso portion and repositionable relative to the torso portion. In some embodiments, the target body further includes a legs portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents human legs, the legs portion may be releasably coupled to the torso portion and repositionable relative to the torso portion.
In some embodiments, the target body represents an entirety of the human body. The target body may include a torso portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents a human torso, one or more arm portions having three-dimensional shapes that represent human arms, a head portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents a human head, and a legs portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents human legs.
In some embodiments, the target body includes multiple target zones arranged adjacent to each other along an outer surface of the target body. Each of the target zones may include one or more layers that extend into the interior volume of the target body. The multiple target zones may have differing material properties (e.g., differing densities and/or differing electrical conductivities).
In some embodiments, the target includes a support structure coupled to the target body and configured to maintain the target body in an upright position during use. The support structure may include one or more stakes that penetrate at least partially into the interior volume of target body.
Another implementation of the present disclosure is a target for a conducted electrical weapon. The target includes a target body having a three-dimensional shape. The target body is configured to receive and stop incoming projectiles from the conducted electrical weapon and to retain the incoming projectiles at least partially within an interior volume of the target body. The target body includes an electrically-conductive material configured to conduct an electric current provided by the conducted electrical weapon between the incoming projectiles when the incoming projectiles are retained at least partially within the interior volume of the target body.
In some embodiments, the target body includes multiple overlapping layers having differing electrical conductivities. The multiple layers may include a first layer that includes the electrically-conductive material and is configured to conduct the electric current provided by the conducted electrical weapon. The multiple layers may further include a second layer that does not comprise the electrically-conductive material and is not configured to conduct the electric current provided by the conducted electrical weapon. In some embodiments, the target body includes multiple overlapping layers having differing densities.
In some embodiments, the target body includes multiple target zones arranged adjacent to each other along an outer surface of the target body. Each of the target zones may include one or more layers that extend into the interior volume of the target body. The multiple target zones may have differing material properties (e.g., differing densities and/or differing electrical conductivities).
In some embodiments, the multiple target zones have differing electrical conductivities. The multiple target zones may include a first target zone that includes the electrically-conductive material and is configured to conduct the electric current provided by the conducted electrical weapon. The multiple target zones may further include a second target zone that does not include the electrically-conductive material and is not configured to conduct the electric current provided by the conducted electrical weapon.
In some embodiments, the first target zone includes multiple overlapping layers having differing electrical conductivities. The multiple layers may include a first layer that includes the electrically-conductive material and is configured to conduct the electric current provided by the conducted electrical weapon. The multiple layers may further include a second layer that does not comprise the electrically-conductive material and is not configured to conduct the electric current provided by the conducted electrical weapon.
In some embodiments, the multiple target zones have differing densities. In some embodiments, at least one of the multiple target zones includes multiple overlapping layers having differing densities.
In some embodiments, the target body has a humanoid shape that represents a corresponding portion of a human body. The target body may include at least one of a torso portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents a human torso, one or more arm portions having three-dimensional shapes that represent human arms, a head portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents a human head, and a legs portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents human legs.
The foregoing is a summary and thus by necessity contains simplifications, generalizations, and omissions of detail. Consequently, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other aspects, inventive features, and advantages of the devices and/or processes described herein, as defined solely by the claims, will become apparent in the detailed description set forth herein and taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a humanoid-shaped three-dimensional target for a conducted electrical weapon, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the humanoid-shaped target of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a rear elevation view of the humanoid-shaped target of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of another humanoid-shaped three-dimensional target for a conducted electrical weapon, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a front elevation view of the humanoid-shaped target of FIG. 4 with the head removed, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a front elevation view of the humanoid-shaped target of FIG. 4 with the head and arms removed, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another humanoid-shaped three-dimensional target for a conducted electrical weapon with multiple target zones, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of the humanoid-shaped target of FIG. 7, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a rear elevation view of the humanoid-shaped target of FIG. 7, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a front elevation view of another humanoid-shaped three-dimensional target for a conducted electrical weapon with multiple target zones, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a front elevation view of the humanoid-shaped target of FIG. 10 with the head removed, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a front elevation view of the humanoid-shaped target of FIG. 10 with the head and arms removed, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a single-layer material which may be used in the humanoid-shaped targets of FIGS. 1-12, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the single-layer material taken along the line A-A in FIG. 13, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a dual-layer material which may be used in the humanoid-shaped targets of FIGS. 1-12, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the dual-layer material taken along the line B-B in FIG. 15, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a triple-layer material which may be used in the humanoid-shaped targets of FIGS. 1-12, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the triple-layer material taken along the line C-C in FIG. 17, according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring generally to the FIGURES, a three-dimensional target for conducted electrical weapons is shown, according to various exemplary embodiments. The target may have a humanoid shape or represent a portion of a human body. For example, the target may include a three-dimensional representation (e.g., a foam molding) of a human torso, legs, arms, head, and/or other parts of a human body. In some embodiments, the target includes multiple three-dimensional pieces (e.g., a torso piece, leg pieces, arm pieces, a head piece, etc.) that can be assembled to form the humanoid-shaped target or a portion thereof. The pieces may be configured to attach to each other in multiple different orientations to allow the target to be arranged in different postures or positions. The target may be free-standing or may be coupled to a support structure (e.g., a stand that rests on the ground, a stake inserted into the ground, etc.) to maintain the target in an upright position.
Advantageously, the target is configured for training with conducted electrical weapons. For example, the target may be made of an electrically-conductive material (e.g., a urethane foam) that conducts an electric current provided by a TASER or other conducted electrical weapon. The electrical conductivity of the target may allow the conducted electrical weapon to register a successful hit and may allow the electric current to flow through the body of the target rather than arcing through the air. The target may be configured to receive and quickly stop incoming projectiles from the conducted electrical weapon and may allow the projectiles to be removed without requiring any sort of lubricant or removal device. The density of the target may be similar to the density of one or more parts of an actual human so as to closely simulate projectile penetration on a human subject. The target may be outfitted with clothing or other accessories (e.g., belts, helmets, armor, etc.) to more closely simulate an actual human subject.
In some embodiments, the target is made entirely of the same electrically-conductive material. In other embodiments, the target includes multiple layers or zones that vary in material density and/or electrical conductivity. For example, the target may include a core made of a conductive and dense material (e.g., configured to simulate human tissue) and an outer layer made of a non-conductive and relatively less dense material (e.g., configured to simulate clothing). In other embodiments, the core is made of a non-conductive material and the outer layer is made of a conductive material. In some embodiments, the target includes three or more layers. For example the target may include an inner core, a middle layer, and an outer layer. Each of the layers may be made of a different material or combination of materials with different densities, electrical conductivities, and/or other material properties. In some embodiments, the outer layer is made of a self-healing material (e.g., small cell cellular plastic or rubber, open cell styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) foam, open cell styrene, etc.).
In some embodiments, the target includes a plurality of target zones at different locations along the target. For example, a first target zone may be located at the upper torso of the target and a second target zone may be located at the thighs of the target. Different zones may be made of different materials and/or different layers of materials that have different material properties. Some of the target zones may be electrically-conductive, whereas other target zones may be non-conductive. Advantageously, this feature allows the conducted electrical weapon to register a hit only when the tethered projectiles successfully strike an electrically-conductive zone. In some embodiments, the locations of the electrically-conductive zones correspond to locations of a human subject at which a conducted electrical weapon would be most effective (e.g., upper chest, thighs, upper back, calves, forearms, etc.), whereas the locations of the non-conductive zones correspond to locations at which a conducted electrical weapon would be less effective or which would typically be blocked by clothing or other accessories (e.g., feet, knees, belt, lower torso, etc.). These and other features of the target are described in greater detail below.
Before discussing further details of the target, it should be noted that references to “front,” “back,” “rear,” “upper,” “bottom,” “right,” “left,” and the like are used in this description to identify the sides and/or surfaces of the target as they are oriented in the FIGURES. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the approximate center of the target and/or designated parts thereof. These terms are not meant to limit the elements which they describe, as the elements may be oriented differently in various implementations.
Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, a three-dimensional target 10 for conducted electrical weapons is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Target 10 is shown having a humanoid shape and may be the approximate size of a human (e.g., between five and six feet tall). According to the embodiment illustrated, target 10 has been formed into the approximate size and shape of an adult male human. In other embodiments, target 10 may be formed into the approximate size and shape of an adult female human, an adolescent human, a small human, or any other humanoid shape and/or size. According to various alternative embodiments, target 10 may have an animal shape (e.g., a deer, a wolf, a bear, a dog, etc.) or may have any of a variety of geometric shapes and/or sizes (e.g., a cube, a sphere, a cylinder, etc.).
Target 10 is shown to include a torso portion 12, a right arm portion 14, a left arm portion 16, a head portion 18, and a legs portion 20. In some embodiments, portions 12-20 are integrally formed as a one-piece unitary body. For example, the entirety of target 10 may be a unitary piece of molded foam (e.g., urethane foam). In other embodiments, target 10 may be formed from a plurality of sections that can be coupled together to define the overall shape of target 10. For example, torso portion 12, right arm portion 14, left arm portion 16, head portion 18, and legs portion 20 may be separate sections that are molded separately and configured to attach to one another. In some embodiments, one or more of portions 12-20 may be omitted or target 10 may include more or different body sections than portions 12-20.
In some embodiments, portions 12-20 can attach to one another in a multiple different orientations to allow target 10 to be arranged in different postures or positions. For example, arm portions 14-16, head portion 18, and/or legs portion 20 may be configured to pivot relative to torso portion 12 and/or may be coupled to torso portion 12 in multiple different orientations. In some embodiments, target 10 includes joints that allow portions 12-20 to move or rotate relative to each other in a manner that simulates movement of an actual human body. For example, legs portion 20 may rotate relative to torso portion 12 at hip joints and may bend at knee joints (e.g., hinge joints). Arm portions 14-16 may pivot relative to torso portion 12 at shoulder joints (e.g., ball and socket joints) and may bend at elbow joints (e.g., hinge joints). Head portion 18 may rotate relative to torso portion 12 at a neck joint. Target 10 may include fasteners or other coupling features configured to secure arm portions 14-16, head portion 18, and legs portion 20 in a particular position or orientation relative to torso portion 12.
Portions 12-20 may be coupled together using any known or otherwise suitable manner. For example, mechanical fasteners, adhesives, welding, a dovetail and/or a tongue-and-groove type coupling arrangement may be provided. In some embodiments, portions 12-20 are held in place by an interference fit, one or more fasteners or one or more support rods which extend through two or more of portions 12-20. For example, portions 12-20 may be held in place by one or more removable support rods which extend through support rod apertures formed in portions 12-20. Such support rods may extend entirely through one or more of portions 12-20 or only partially into portions 12-20. Such support rods may be hollow or solid, and made of any appropriate rigid or semi-rigid material, such as plastic. Forming the support rods of a material such as a low density polyethylene may provide the desired rigidity while not damaging a projectile should the penetrate into target 10 to such a depth as to contact the support rods. Further, such support rods may be pointed, or slightly pointed, at one end thereof, to facilitate inserting the support rods through the support rod apertures.
Target 10 is shown to include a structure that assists in supporting target 10 in a desired (e.g., upright, etc.) use position. In some embodiments, the support structure includes one or more mounting rods or stakes 24. Stakes 24 may extend from the bottom of legs portion 20 or may otherwise be coupled to legs portion 20 (e.g., fastened to the sides of legs portion 20). Stakes 24 may be tubular members made of a strong rigid material, such as metal (e.g., aluminum, steel, etc.) and may be molded into legs portion 20 during the process of forming legs portion 20. Target 10 may be mounted in position for use by driving stakes 24 into the ground or by driving separate stakes into the ground and attaching stakes 24 thereto (e.g., by placing open ends of stakes 24 over exposed ends of the stakes that have been inserted into the ground, etc.). In other embodiments, stakes 24 may be secured to a support panel 22 that rests on top of the ground, as shown in FIGS. 1-3.
Advantageously, target 10 is configured specifically for use with a conducted electrical weapon 30 (e.g., a TASER, a stun gun, an electric shock prod, a stun shield, etc.). For example, target 10 may be made of an electrically-conductive material (e.g., a urethane foam) that conducts an electric current provided by conducted electrical weapon 30. Of course, other suitable foam or other electrically-conductive materials may be used to form target 10. Target 10 may be configured to receive and quickly stop incoming projectiles 34 from conducted electrical weapon 30 and may allow projectiles 34 to be removed without requiring any sort of lubricant or removal device. The density of target 10 may be similar to the density of one or more parts of an actual human so as to closely simulate the penetration of projectiles 34 on a human subject. The humanoid shape of target 10 allows target to be outfitted with clothing or other accessories (e.g., belts, helmets, armor, etc.) to more closely simulate an actual human subject.
In FIG. 1, conducted electrical weapon 30 is shown as a handheld TASER, as may be sold by TASER International, Inc. Conducted electrical weapon 30 may include a handheld housing that contains an energy source (e.g., a battery) and can be used to fire tethered projectiles 34 toward target 10. When projectiles 34 embed in target 10, the electrically-conductive material from which target 10 is formed may complete the electric circuit. High voltage, low current, electric pulses may be delivered to target 10 through thin flexible wires 32. The electric current flows into target 10 through one of wires 32, through target 10, and back to conducted electrical weapon 30 through the other wire 32. The electrical conductivity of target 10 may allow conducted electrical weapon 30 to register a successful hit and may allow the electric current to flow through the body of target 10 rather than arcing through the air.
In some embodiments, target 10 includes multiple layers or that vary in material density and/or electrical conductivity. For example, target 10 may include a core made of a conductive and dense material (e.g., configured to simulate human tissue) and an outer layer made of a non-conductive and relatively less dense material (e.g., configured to simulate clothing). In other embodiments, the core is made of a non-conductive material and the outer layer is made of a conductive material. In some embodiments, target 10 includes three or more layers. For example target 10 may include an inner core, a middle layer, and an outer layer. Each of the layers may be made of a different material or combination of materials with different densities, electrical conductivities, and/or other material properties. In some embodiments, the outer layer is made of a self-healing material (e.g., small cell cellular plastic or rubber, open cell styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) foam, open cell styrene, etc.). Several examples of layered and non-layered materials from which target 10 may be constructed are described in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 13-18.
Referring now to FIGS. 4-6, another three-dimensional target 110 for conducted electrical weapons is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Target 110 may include some or all of the features of target 10, as described with reference to FIGS. 1-3. For example, target 110 is shown having a partial humanoid shape and may have components that are approximately the same size as an average-sized human. According to the embodiment illustrated, target 110 has been formed into the approximate size and shape of the upper body of an adult male human (i.e., shaped like a human torso, head, and/or arms). In other embodiments, target 110 may be formed into the approximate size and shape of the upper body of an adult female human, an adolescent human, a small human, or any other humanoid shape and/or size. According to various alternative embodiments, target 110 may have an animal shape (e.g., a deer, a wolf, a bear, a dog, etc.) or may have any of a variety of geometric shapes and/or sizes (e.g., a cube, a sphere, a cylinder, etc.).
Target 110 is shown to include a torso portion 112, a right arm portion 114, a left arm portion 116, and a head portion 118. In some embodiments, portions 112-118 are integrally formed as a one-piece unitary body. For example, the entirety of target 110 may be a unitary piece of molded foam (e.g., urethane foam). In other embodiments, target 110 may be formed from a plurality of sections that can be coupled together to define the overall shape of target 110. For example, torso portion 112, right arm portion 114, left arm portion 116, and head portion 118 may be separate sections that are molded separately and configured to attach to one another. In some embodiments, one or more of portions 112-118 may be omitted or target 110 may include more or different body sections than portions 112-118. For example, FIG. 4 shows target 110 with head portion 118 omitted and FIG. 5 shows target 110 with both head portion 118 and arm portions 114-116 omitted.
In some embodiments, portions 112-118 can attach to one another in a multiple different orientations to allow target 110 to be arranged in different postures or positions. For example, arm portions 114-116 and/or head portion 118 may be configured to pivot relative to torso portion 112 and/or may be coupled to torso portion 112 in multiple different orientations. In some embodiments, target 110 includes joints that allow portions 112-118 to move or rotate relative to each other in a manner that simulates movement of an actual human body. For example, arm portions 114-116 may pivot relative to torso portion 112 at shoulder joints (e.g., ball and socket joints) and may bend at elbow joints (e.g., hinge joints). Head portion 118 may rotate relative to torso portion 112 at a neck joint. Target 110 may include fasteners or other coupling features configured to secure arm portions 114-116 and head portion 118 in a particular position or orientation relative to torso portion 112.
Portions 112-118 may be coupled together using any known or otherwise suitable manner. For example, mechanical fasteners, adhesives, welding, a dovetail and/or a tongue-and-groove type coupling arrangement may be provided. In some embodiments, portions 112-118 are held in place by an interference fit, one or more fasteners or one or more support rods which extend through two or more of portions 112-118. For example, portions 112-118 may be held in place by one or more removable support rods which extend through support rod apertures formed in portions 112-118. Such support rods may extend entirely through one or more of portions 112-118 or only partially into portions 112-118. Such support rods may be hollow or solid, and made of any appropriate rigid or semi-rigid material, such as plastic. Forming the support rods of a material such as a low density polyethylene may provide the desired rigidity while not damaging a projectile should the penetrate into target 110 to such a depth as to contact the support rods. Further, such support rods may be pointed, or slightly pointed, at one end thereof, to facilitate inserting the support rods through the support rod apertures.
Target 110 is shown to include a structure that assists in supporting target 110 in a desired (e.g., upright, etc.) use position. In some embodiments, the support structure includes one or more mounting rods or stakes 124. According to the embodiment illustrated, a stake 124 may extend from the bottom of torso portion 112 or may otherwise be coupled to torso portion 112 (e.g., fastened to the side or back of torso portion 112). Stake 124 may be a tubular member made of a strong rigid material, such as metal (e.g., aluminum, steel, etc.) and may be molded into torso portion 112 during the process of forming torso portion 112. Target 110 may be mounted in position for use by driving stake 124 into the ground or by driving a separate stake into the ground and attaching stake 124 thereto (e.g., by placing an open end of stake 124 over an exposed ends of the stake that have been inserted into the ground, etc.). In other embodiments, stake 124 may be secured to a support panel 122 that rests on top of the ground, as shown in FIGS. 4-6.
Advantageously, target 110 is configured specifically for use with a conducted electrical weapon (e.g., a TASER, a stun gun, an electric shock prod, a stun shield, etc.). For example, target 110 may be made of an electrically-conductive material (e.g., a urethane foam) that conducts an electric current provided by a conducted electrical weapon (e.g., conducted electrical weapon 30, shown in FIG. 1). Of course, other suitable foam or other electrically-conductive materials may be used to form target 110. Target 110 may be configured to receive and quickly stop incoming projectiles 34 from conducted electrical weapon 30 and may allow projectiles 34 to be removed without requiring any sort of lubricant or removal device. The density of target 110 may be similar to the density of one or more parts of an actual human so as to closely simulate the penetration of projectiles 34 on a human subject.
When projectiles 34 embed in target 110, the electrically-conductive material from which target 110 is formed may complete the electric circuit. High voltage, low current, electric pulses may be delivered to target 110 through thin flexible wires 32. The electric current flows into target 110 through one of wires 32, through target 10, and back to conducted electrical weapon 30 through the other wire 32. The electrical conductivity of target 110 may allow conducted electrical weapon 30 to register a successful hit and may allow the electric current to flow through the body of target 110 rather than arcing through the air. The humanoid shape of target 110 allows target to be outfitted with clothing or other accessories (e.g., belts, helmets, armor, etc.) to more closely simulate an actual human subject.
In some embodiments, target 110 includes multiple layers or that vary in material density and/or electrical conductivity. For example, target 110 may include a core made of a conductive and dense material (e.g., configured to simulate human tissue) and an outer layer made of a non-conductive and relatively less dense material (e.g., configured to simulate clothing). In other embodiments, the core is made of a non-conductive material and the outer layer is made of a conductive material. In some embodiments, target 110 includes three or more layers. For example target 110 may include an inner core, a middle layer, and an outer layer. Each of the layers may be made of a different material or combination of materials with different densities, electrical conductivities, and/or other material properties. In some embodiments, the outer layer is made of a self-healing material (e.g., small cell cellular plastic or rubber, open cell styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) foam, open cell styrene, etc.). Several examples of layered and non-layered materials from which target 110 may be constructed are described in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 13-18.
Referring now to FIGS. 7-9, another three-dimensional target 210 for conducted electrical weapons is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Target 210 may include some or all of the features of target 10, as described with reference to FIGS. 1-3. For example, target 210 is shown having a humanoid shape and may be the approximate size of a human (e.g., between five and six feet tall). According to the embodiment illustrated, target 210 has been formed into the approximate size and shape of an adult male human. In other embodiments, target 210 may be formed into the approximate size and shape of an adult female human, an adolescent human, a small human, or any other humanoid shape and/or size. According to various alternative embodiments, target 210 may have an animal shape (e.g., a deer, a wolf, a bear, a dog, etc.) or may have any of a variety of geometric shapes and/or sizes (e.g., a cube, a sphere, a cylinder, etc.).
Target 210 is shown to include a torso portion 212, a right arm portion 214, a left arm portion 216, a head portion 218, and a legs portion 220. In some embodiments, portions 212-220 are integrally formed as a one-piece unitary body. For example, the entirety of target 210 may be a unitary piece of molded foam (e.g., urethane foam). In other embodiments, target 210 may be formed from a plurality of sections that can be coupled together to define the overall shape of target 210. For example, torso portion 212, right arm portion 214, left arm portion 216, head portion 218, and legs portion 220 may be separate sections that are molded separately and configured to attach to one another. In some embodiments, one or more of portions 212-220 may be omitted or target 210 may include more or different body sections than portions 212-220.
In some embodiments, portions 212-220 can attach to one another in a multiple different orientations to allow target 210 to be arranged in different postures or positions. For example, arm portions 214-216, head portion 218, and/or legs portion 220 may be configured to pivot relative to torso portion 212 and/or may be coupled to torso portion 212 in multiple different orientations. In some embodiments, target 210 includes joints that allow portions 212-220 to move or rotate relative to each other in a manner that simulates movement of an actual human body. For example, legs portion 220 may rotate relative to torso portion 212 at hip joints and may bend at knee joints (e.g., hinge joints). Arm portions 214-216 may pivot relative to torso portion 212 at shoulder joints (e.g., ball and socket joints) and may bend at elbow joints (e.g., hinge joints). Head portion 218 may rotate relative to torso portion 212 at a neck joint. Target 210 may include fasteners or other coupling features configured to secure arm portions 214-216, head portion 218, and legs portion 220 in a particular position or orientation relative to torso portion 212.
Portions 212-220 may be coupled together using any known or otherwise suitable manner. For example, mechanical fasteners, adhesives, welding, a dovetail and/or a tongue-and-groove type coupling arrangement may be provided. In some embodiments, portions 212-220 are held in place by an interference fit, one or more fasteners or one or more support rods which extend through two or more of portions 212-220. For example, portions 212-220 may be held in place by one or more removable support rods which extend through support rod apertures formed in portions 212-220. Such support rods may extend entirely through one or more of portions 212-220 or only partially into portions 212-220. Such support rods may be hollow or solid, and made of any appropriate rigid or semi-rigid material, such as plastic. Forming the support rods of a material such as a low density polyethylene may provide the desired rigidity while not damaging a projectile should the penetrate into target 210 to such a depth as to contact the support rods. Further, such support rods may be pointed, or slightly pointed, at one end thereof, to facilitate inserting the support rods through the support rod apertures.
Target 210 is shown to include a structure that assists in supporting target 210 in a desired (e.g., upright, etc.) use position. In some embodiments, the support structure includes one or more mounting rods or stakes 224. Stakes 224 may extend from the bottom of legs portion 220 or may otherwise be coupled to legs portion 220 (e.g., fastened to the sides of legs portion 220). Stakes 224 may be tubular members made of a strong rigid material, such as metal (e.g., aluminum, steel, etc.) and may be molded into legs portion 220 during the process of forming legs portion 220. Target 210 may be mounted in position for use by driving stakes 224 into the ground or by driving separate stakes into the ground and attaching stakes 224 thereto (e.g., by placing open ends of stakes 224 over exposed ends of the stakes that have been inserted into the ground, etc.). In other embodiments, stakes 224 may be secured to a support panel 222 that rests on top of the ground, as shown in FIGS. 7-9.
Advantageously, target 210 is configured specifically for use with a conducted electrical weapon (e.g., a TASER, a stun gun, an electric shock prod, a stun shield, etc.). For example, target 210 may be made of an electrically-conductive material (e.g., a urethane foam) that conducts an electric current provided by a conducted electrical weapon (e.g., conducted electrical weapon 30, shown in FIG. 1). Of course, other suitable foam or other electrically-conductive materials may be used to form target 210. Target 210 may be configured to receive and quickly stop incoming projectiles 34 from conducted electrical weapon 30 and may allow projectiles 34 to be removed without requiring any sort of lubricant or removal device. The density of target 210 may be similar to the density of one or more parts of an actual human so as to closely simulate the penetration of projectiles 34 on a human subject.
When projectiles 34 embed in target 210, the electrically-conductive material from which target 210 is formed may complete the electric circuit. High voltage, low current, electric pulses may be delivered to target 210 through thin flexible wires 32. The electric current flows into target 210 through one of wires 32, through target 10, and back to conducted electrical weapon 30 through the other wire 32. The electrical conductivity of target 210 may allow conducted electrical weapon 30 to register a successful hit and may allow the electric current to flow through the body of target 210 rather than arcing through the air. The humanoid shape of target 210 allows target to be outfitted with clothing or other accessories (e.g., belts, helmets, armor, etc.) to more closely simulate an actual human subject.
In some embodiments, target 210 includes multiple layers or that vary in material density and/or electrical conductivity. For example, target 210 may include a core made of a conductive and dense material (e.g., configured to simulate human tissue) and an outer layer made of a non-conductive and relatively less dense material (e.g., configured to simulate clothing). In other embodiments, the core is made of a non-conductive material and the outer layer is made of a conductive material. In some embodiments, target 210 includes three or more layers. For example target 210 may include an inner core, a middle layer, and an outer layer. Each of the layers may be made of a different material or combination of materials with different densities, electrical conductivities, and/or other material properties. In some embodiments, the outer layer is made of a self-healing material (e.g., small cell cellular plastic or rubber, open cell styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) foam, open cell styrene, etc.). Several examples of layered and non-layered materials from which target 210 may be constructed are described in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 13-18.
Still referring to FIGS. 7-9, target 210 is shown to include a plurality of target zones 230-242. Target zones 230-242 are shown to include an upper chest target zone 230, brachial plexus target zones 232, forearm target zones 234, pelvic target zone 236, thigh target zones 238, an calf target zones 240, and an upper back target zone 242. In some embodiments, target zones 230-242 are visually distinguishable from each other and/or from the remainder of target 210. For example, target zones 230-242 may be visually separated by markings (e.g., solid or broken lines) along an outer surface of target 210 or may have a different color, pattern, or other visual characteristic relative to each other and/or the remainder of target 210. The markings may be formed by painting or otherwise applying a mark to the outer surfaces of target 210 or by molding or otherwise forming a three-dimensional ridge or groove in target 210 to define the markings. In some embodiments, one or more of target zones 230-242 is provided with a bulls eye or other target mark.
Target zones 230-242 may be made of different materials and/or different layers of materials that have different material properties (e.g., density, electrical conductivity, etc.) relative to each other and/or relative to the remainder of target 210. In some embodiments, one or more of target zones 230-242 is electrically-conductive (i.e., includes an electrically-conductive material or layer), whereas the remainder of target 210 is not electrically-conductive (i.e., does not include an electrically-conductive material or layer). Advantageously, this feature allows conducted electrical weapon 30 to register a hit only when the tethered projectiles 34 successfully strike an electrically-conductive target zone. In some embodiments, the locations of the electrically-conductive target zones correspond to locations of a human subject at which conducted electrical weapon 30 would be most effective (e.g., upper chest, brachial plexus, forearms, pelvis, thighs, calves, etc.), whereas the locations of the non-conductive zones correspond to locations at which conducted electrical weapon 30 would be less effective or locations that would typically be blocked by clothing or other accessories (e.g., feet, knees, belt, lower torso, etc.).
In some embodiments, the density of target 210 is substantially constant throughout target 210. In other embodiments, the density of target 210 varies in different locations. For example, target zones 230-242 may have different densities relative to each other and/or relative to the remainder of target 210. In some embodiments, target zones 230-242 are made of a relatively more dense material relative to the remainder of target 210. Advantageously, this feature allows target zones 230-242 to be more durable and deteriorate less rapidly relative to the remainder of target 210.
In some embodiments, one or more of target zones 230-242 is configured to be removable from target 210. For example, one or more of target zones 230-242 may be repositionable and/or replaceable target inserts, similar to the target insert described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/447,786, filed Apr. 16, 2012, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. As such, after a target zone becomes excessively damaged (e.g., due to repeated projectile strikes), the damaged target zone may be replaced with a new target zone. Advantageously, this feature allows target 210 to be restored to a useful condition without requiring replacement of the entire target 210.
Referring now to FIGS. 10-12, another three-dimensional target 310 for conducted electrical weapons is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Target 310 may include some or all of the features of target 110, as described with reference to FIGS. 1-3. For example, target 310 is shown having a partial humanoid shape and may have components that are approximately the same size as an average-sized human. According to the embodiment illustrated, target 310 has been formed into the approximate size and shape of the upper body of an adult male human (i.e., shaped like a human torso, head, and/or arms). In other embodiments, target 310 may be formed into the approximate size and shape of the upper body of an adult female human, an adolescent human, a small human, or any other humanoid shape and/or size. According to various alternative embodiments, target 310 may have an animal shape (e.g., a deer, a wolf, a bear, a dog, etc.) or may have any of a variety of geometric shapes and/or sizes (e.g., a cube, a sphere, a cylinder, etc.).
Target 310 is shown to include a torso portion 312, a right arm portion 314, a left arm portion 316, and a head portion 318. In some embodiments, portions 312-318 are integrally formed as a one-piece unitary body. For example, the entirety of target 310 may be a unitary piece of molded foam (e.g., urethane foam). In other embodiments, target 310 may be formed from a plurality of sections that can be coupled together to define the overall shape of target 310. For example, torso portion 312, right arm portion 314, left arm portion 316, and head portion 318 may be separate sections that are molded separately and configured to attach to one another. In some embodiments, one or more of portions 312-318 may be omitted or target 310 may include more or different body sections than portions 312-318. For example, FIG. 11 shows target 310 with head portion 318 omitted and FIG. 12 shows target 310 with both head portion 318 and arm portions 314-316 omitted.
In some embodiments, portions 312-318 can attach to one another in a multiple different orientations to allow target 310 to be arranged in different postures or positions. For example, arm portions 314-316 and/or head portion 318 may be configured to pivot relative to torso portion 312 and/or may be coupled to torso portion 312 in multiple different orientations. In some embodiments, target 310 includes joints that allow portions 312-318 to move or rotate relative to each other in a manner that simulates movement of an actual human body. For example, arm portions 314-316 may pivot relative to torso portion 312 at shoulder joints (e.g., ball and socket joints) and may bend at elbow joints (e.g., hinge joints). Head portion 318 may rotate relative to torso portion 312 at a neck joint. Target 310 may include fasteners or other coupling features configured to secure arm portions 314-316 and head portion 318 in a particular position or orientation relative to torso portion 312.
Portions 312-318 may be coupled together using any known or otherwise suitable manner. For example, mechanical fasteners, adhesives, welding, a dovetail and/or a tongue-and-groove type coupling arrangement may be provided. In some embodiments, portions 312-318 are held in place by an interference fit, one or more fasteners or one or more support rods which extend through two or more of portions 312-318. For example, portions 312-318 may be held in place by one or more removable support rods which extend through support rod apertures formed in portions 312-318. Such support rods may extend entirely through one or more of portions 312-318 or only partially into portions 312-318. Such support rods may be hollow or solid, and made of any appropriate rigid or semi-rigid material, such as plastic. Forming the support rods of a material such as a low density polyethylene may provide the desired rigidity while not damaging a projectile should the penetrate into target 310 to such a depth as to contact the support rods. Further, such support rods may be pointed, or slightly pointed, at one end thereof, to facilitate inserting the support rods through the support rod apertures.
Target 310 is shown to include a structure that assists in supporting target 310 in a desired (e.g., upright, etc.) use position. In some embodiments, the support structure includes one or more mounting rods or stakes 324. According to the embodiment illustrated, a stake 324 may extend from the bottom of torso portion 312 or may otherwise be coupled to torso portion 312 (e.g., fastened to the side or back of torso portion 312). Stake 324 may be a tubular member made of a strong rigid material, such as metal (e.g., aluminum, steel, etc.) and may be molded into torso portion 312 during the process of forming torso portion 312. Target 310 may be mounted in position for use by driving stake 324 into the ground or by driving a separate stake into the ground and attaching stake 324 thereto (e.g., by placing an open end of stake 324 over an exposed ends of the stake that have been inserted into the ground, etc.). In other embodiments, stake 324 may be secured to a support panel 322 that rests on top of the ground, as shown in FIGS. 10-12.
Advantageously, target 310 is configured specifically for use with a conducted electrical weapon (e.g., a TASER, a stun gun, an electric shock prod, a stun shield, etc.). For example, target 310 may be made of an electrically-conductive material (e.g., a urethane foam) that conducts an electric current provided by a conducted electrical weapon (e.g., conducted electrical weapon 30, shown in FIG. 1). Of course, other suitable foam or other electrically-conductive materials may be used to form target 310. Target 310 may be configured to receive and quickly stop incoming projectiles 34 from conducted electrical weapon 30 and may allow projectiles 34 to be removed without requiring any sort of lubricant or removal device. The density of target 310 may be similar to the density of one or more parts of an actual human so as to closely simulate the penetration of projectiles 34 on a human subject.
When projectiles 34 embed in target 310, the electrically-conductive material from which target 310 is formed may complete the electric circuit. High voltage, low current, electric pulses may be delivered to target 310 through thin flexible wires 32. The electric current flows into target 310 through one of wires 32, through target 10, and back to conducted electrical weapon 30 through the other wire 32. The electrical conductivity of target 310 may allow conducted electrical weapon 30 to register a successful hit and may allow the electric current to flow through the body of target 310 rather than arcing through the air. The humanoid shape of target 310 allows target to be outfitted with clothing or other accessories (e.g., belts, helmets, armor, etc.) to more closely simulate an actual human subject.
In some embodiments, target 310 includes multiple layers or that vary in material density and/or electrical conductivity. For example, target 310 may include a core made of a conductive and dense material (e.g., configured to simulate human tissue) and an outer layer made of a non-conductive and relatively less dense material (e.g., configured to simulate clothing). In other embodiments, the core is made of a non-conductive material and the outer layer is made of a conductive material. In some embodiments, target 310 includes three or more layers. For example target 310 may include an inner core, a middle layer, and an outer layer. Each of the layers may be made of a different material or combination of materials with different densities, electrical conductivities, and/or other material properties. In some embodiments, the outer layer is made of a self-healing material (e.g., small cell cellular plastic or rubber, open cell styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) foam, open cell styrene, etc.). Several examples of layered and non-layered materials from which target 310 may be constructed are described in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 13-18.
Still referring to FIGS. 10-12, target 310 is shown to include a plurality of target zones 330-334. Target zones 330-334 are shown to include an upper chest target zone 330, brachial plexus target zones 332, and forearm target zones 334. In some embodiments, target 310 further includes an upper back target zone (not shown). In some embodiments, target zones 330-334 are visually distinguishable from each other and/or from the remainder of target 310. For example, target zones 330-334 may be visually separated by markings (e.g., solid or broken lines) along an outer surface of target 310 or may have a different color, pattern, or other visual characteristic relative to each other and/or the remainder of target 310. The markings may be formed by painting or otherwise applying a mark to the outer surfaces of target 310 or by molding or otherwise forming a three-dimensional ridge or groove in target 310 to define the markings. In some embodiments, one or more of target zones 330-334 is provided with a bulls eye or other target mark.
Target zones 330-334 may be made of different materials and/or different layers of materials that have different material properties (e.g., density, electrical conductivity, etc.) relative to each other and/or relative to the remainder of target 310. In some embodiments, one or more of target zones 330-334 is electrically-conductive (i.e., includes an electrically-conductive material or layer), whereas the remainder of target 310 is not electrically-conductive (i.e., does not include an electrically-conductive material or layer). Advantageously, this feature allows conducted electrical weapon 30 to register a hit only when the tethered projectiles 34 successfully strike an electrically-conductive target zone. In some embodiments, the locations of the electrically-conductive target zones correspond to locations of a human subject at which conducted electrical weapon 30 would be most effective (e.g., upper chest, brachial plexus, forearms, back, etc.), whereas the locations of the non-conductive zones correspond to locations at which conducted electrical weapon 30 would be less effective or locations that would typically be blocked by clothing or other accessories (e.g., feet, knees, belt, lower torso, etc.).
In some embodiments, the density of target 310 is substantially constant throughout target 310. In other embodiments, the density of target 310 varies in different locations. For example, target zones 330-334 may have different densities relative to each other and/or relative to the remainder of target 310. In some embodiments, target zones 330-334 are made of a relatively more dense material relative to the remainder of target 310. Advantageously, this feature allows target zones 330-334 to be more durable and deteriorate less rapidly relative to the remainder of target 310.
In some embodiments, one or more of target zones 330-334 is configured to be removable from target 310. For example, one or more of target zones 330-334 may be repositionable and/or replaceable target inserts, similar to the target insert described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/447,786. As such, after a target zone becomes excessively damaged (e.g., due to repeated projectile strikes), the damaged target zone may be replaced with a new target zone. Advantageously, this feature allows target 310 to be restored to a useful condition without requiring replacement of the entire target 310.
Referring now to FIGS. 13-18, several examples of layered and non-layered materials 400-600 from which targets 10, 110, 210, and 310 may be constructed are shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Materials 400-600 may be used for some or all of targets 10, 110, 210, and 310. In some embodiments, targets 10, 110, 210, and 310 are constructed from a single layered or non-layered material 400-600. In other embodiments, different portions and/or target zones of targets 10, 110, 210, and 310 are constructed from different materials 400-600. For example, target zones 230-242 and 330-334 may be constructed from one of materials 400-600, whereas the remainder of targets 210 and 310 may be constructed from a different material 400-600. As another example, some portions of targets 10, 110, 210, and 310 (e.g., torso, head, arms, legs, etc.) may be constructed from one of materials 400-600, whereas other portions of targets 10, 110, 210, and 310, may be constructed from a different material 400-600. It is contemplated that materials 400-600 may be combined in any manner to form targets 10, 110, 210, and 310.
Referring particularly to FIGS. 13-14, a non-layered material 400 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of material 400, whereas FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of material 400 taken along line A-A shown in FIG. 13. Material 400 is shown to include a single layer 402 which extends from the surface 410 of material 400 inward. In some embodiments, layer 402 is made of an electrically-conductive material such as urethane foam. Of course, other suitable foam or other electrically-conductive materials may be used to form layer 402. In some embodiments, material 400 is configured to absorb moisture from the air (i.e., through surface 410) and retain the moisture within layer 402. Retaining moisture within layer 402 may improve the electrical conductivity of layer 402 and may facilitate an electric current passing through layer 402.
As shown in FIG. 14, material 400 may receive incoming projectiles 34 from a conducted electrical weapon. Material 400 be configured to quickly stop projectiles 34 and may allow projectiles 34 to be pulled out or otherwise removed from material 400 without requiring any sort of lubricant or removal device. For example, material 400 may have a density sufficient to stop projectiles 34 prior to leads 36 fully penetrating surface 410 such that the wide ends of barbs 38 do not penetrate surface 410. This may allow projectiles 34 to be pulled out of material 400 without causing barbs 38 to tear or create a larger hole in surface 410.
Referring now to FIGS. 15-16, a layered material 500 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of material 500, whereas FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of material 500 taken along line B-B shown in FIG. 15. Material 500 is shown to include an inner layer 502 and an outer layer 504 between layer 502 and surface 510. Layers 502-504 may be made of materials that have different densities and/or electrical conductivities. In some embodiments, inner layer 502 is made of an electrically-conductive material (e.g., as urethane foam), whereas outer layer 504 is made of a non-electrically-conductive material. Such a configuration may allow the conducted electrical weapon 30 to register a successful hit only if leads 36 penetrate sufficiently to make electrical contact with inner layer 502. In other embodiments, outer layer 504 is made of an electrically-conductive material, whereas inner layer 502 is made of a non-electrically-conductive material. Such a configuration may allow most of the target (i.e., inner layer 502) to be made of a non-conductive material (which may be less expensive or more durable than urethane foam) while still providing an electrically-conductive layer 504 for use with a conducted electrical weapon. In some embodiments, layers 502-504 are both electrically-conductive.
In some embodiments, material 500 is configured to absorb moisture from the air (i.e., through surface 510) and retain the moisture within one or more of layers 502-504. In some embodiments, inner layer 502 is treated with moisture when material 500 is fabricated such that the moisture is absorbed within inner layer 502. Outer layer 504 may then be applied to seal in the moisture and to prevent the moisture from escaping material 500. In some embodiments, outer layer 504 is made of a self-healing material (e.g., small cell cellular plastic or rubber, open cell styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) foam, open cell styrene, etc.). For example, outer layer 504 may be a coated liner having self-healing properties, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/891,930, filed May 10, 2013, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.
In some embodiments, layers 502-504 are made of materials that have different densities. For example, inner layer 502 may be more or less dense than outer layer 504. In some embodiments, inner layer 502 is made of a dense material (e.g., configured to simulate human tissue), whereas outer layer 504 is made of a relatively less dense material (e.g., configured to simulate clothing). In other embodiments, outer layer 504 is made of a dense material, whereas inner layer 502 is made of a relatively less dense material.
As shown in FIG. 16, material 500 may receive incoming projectiles 34 from a conducted electrical weapon. Material 500 be configured to quickly stop projectiles 34 and may allow projectiles 34 to be pulled out or otherwise removed from material 500 without requiring any sort of lubricant or removal device. For example, one or more of layers 502-504 may have a density sufficient to stop projectiles 34 prior to leads 36 fully penetrating surface 510 such that the wide ends of barbs 38 do not penetrate surface 510. This may allow projectiles 34 to be pulled out of material 500 without causing barbs 38 to tear or create a larger hole in surface 510.
Referring now to FIGS. 17-18, a layered material 600 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 17 is a perspective view of material 600, whereas FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of material 600 taken along line C-C shown in FIG. 17. Material 600 is shown to include an inner layer 602, a middle layer 604, and an outer layer 606. Layers 602-606 may be made of materials that have different densities and/or electrical conductivities. In some embodiments, one or more of inner layer 602 and middle layer 604 is made of an electrically-conductive material (e.g., as urethane foam), whereas outer layer 606 is made of a non-electrically-conductive material. Such a configuration may allow the conducted electrical weapon 30 to register a successful hit only if leads 36 penetrate sufficiently to make electrical contact with inner layer 602 and/or middle layer 604. In other embodiments, only middle layer 604 is made of an electrically-conductive material, whereas inner layer 602 and outer layer 606 are made of non-electrically-conductive materials. Such a configuration may allow most of the target to be made of a non-conductive material (which may be less expensive or more durable than urethane foam) while still providing an electrically-conductive layer 604 for use with a conducted electrical weapon. It is contemplated that any combination of electrically-conductive and non-electrically-conductive layers may be provided.
In some embodiments, material 600 is configured to absorb moisture from the air (i.e., through surface 610) and retain the moisture within one or more of layers 602-606. In some embodiments, inner layer 602 and/or middle layer 604 is treated with moisture when material 600 is fabricated such that the moisture is absorbed within inner layer 602 and/or middle layer 604. Outer layer 606 may then be applied to seal in the moisture and to prevent the moisture from escaping material 600. In some embodiments, outer layer 606 is made of a self-healing material (e.g., small cell cellular plastic or rubber, open cell styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) foam, open cell styrene, etc.). For example, outer layer 606 may be a coated liner having self-healing properties, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/891,930.
In some embodiments, layers 602-606 are made of materials that have different densities. In some embodiments, inner layer 602 is made of a dense material (e.g., configured to simulate human tissue), middle layer 604 is made of a relatively less dense material (e.g., configured to simulate human skin), and outer layer 606 is made of a cloth or fabric material (e.g., configured to simulate clothing). In other embodiments, outer layer 606 is made of a dense material, whereas inner layer 602 and middle layer 504 are made of relatively less dense materials. It is contemplated that any combination of material densities may be used for layers 602-606.
As shown in FIG. 18, material 600 may receive incoming projectiles 34 from a conducted electrical weapon. Material 600 be configured to quickly stop projectiles 34 and may allow projectiles 34 to be pulled out or otherwise removed from material 600 without requiring any sort of lubricant or removal device. For example, one or more of layers 602-606 may have a density sufficient to stop projectiles 34 prior to leads 36 fully penetrating surface 620 such that the wide ends of barbs 38 do not penetrate surface 610. This may allow projectiles 34 to be pulled out of material 600 without causing barbs 38 to tear or create a larger hole in surface 610.
The construction and arrangement of the target as shown in the exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few implementations of the present disclosure have been described in detail, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the described subject matter. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements. The elements and assemblies may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. All such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the described subject matter.
While this description contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any disclosures or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to the exemplary embodiments described herein. In certain instances, well-known or conventional details are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description.
References to “some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “an exemplary embodiment,” and/or “various embodiments” in the present disclosure can be, but not necessarily are, references to the same embodiment. Such references should be interpreted to mean at least one of the embodiments. Certain features that are described in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination may in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.
Alternative language and synonyms may be used for anyone or more of the terms discussed herein. No special significance should be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein. Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examples anywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussed herein is illustrative only, and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification.
As used herein, the term “exemplary” means an example, instance, or illustration. Any implementation or design described as exemplary is not necessarily preferred or advantageous over other implementations or designs. Rather, use of the term exemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete manner.
As used herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the invention as recited in the appended claims.
As used herein, the term “coupled” means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or moveable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable, releasable, or reversible in nature.

Claims

1. A humanoid-shaped target for a conducted electrical weapon, the target comprising:

a target body having a three-dimensional shape that represents a corresponding portion of a human body;

the target body configured to receive and stop incoming projectiles from the conducted electrical weapon and to retain the incoming projectiles at least partially within an interior volume of the target body;

the target body comprising a target zone having an outer surface made of an electrically-conductive material such that substantially an entire surface area of the target zone is electrically-conductive, wherein the electrically-conductive material is configured to conduct an electric current provided by the conducted electrical weapon between the incoming projectiles when the incoming projectiles strike substantially any location along the outer surface of the target zone and are retained at least partially within the interior volume of the target body.

2. The humanoid-shaped target of claim 1, wherein the target body is a three-dimensional molding of the corresponding portion of the human body.

3. The humanoid-shaped target of claim 1, wherein the electrically-conductive material is a urethane foam.

4. The humanoid-shaped target of claim 1, wherein the target body comprises a torso portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents a human torso.

5. The humanoid-shaped target of claim 4, wherein the target body further comprises one or more arm portions having three-dimensional shapes that represent human arms, the arm portions being releasably coupled to the torso portion and repositionable relative to the torso portion.

6. The humanoid-shaped target of claim 4, wherein the target body further comprises a head portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents a human head, the head portion being releasably coupled to the torso portion and repositionable relative to the torso portion.

7. The humanoid-shaped target of claim 4, wherein the target body further comprises a legs portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents human legs, the legs portion being releasably coupled to the torso portion and repositionable relative to the torso portion.

8. The humanoid-shaped target of claim 1, wherein the target body represents an entirety of the human body, the target body comprising:

a torso portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents a human torso;

one or more arm portions having three-dimensional shapes that represent human arms;

a head portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents a human head; and

a legs portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents human legs.

9. The humanoid-shaped target of claim 1, wherein the target body comprises multiple target zones arranged adjacent to each other along an outer surface of the target body, each of the target zones comprising one or more layers that extend into the interior volume of the target body;

wherein the multiple target zones have differing material properties comprising at least one of differing densities and differing electrical conductivities.

10. The humanoid-shaped target of claim 1, further comprising a support structure coupled to the target body and configured to maintain the target body in an upright position during use.

11. The humanoid-shaped target of claim 10, wherein the support structure comprises one or more stakes that penetrate at least partially into the interior volume of target body.

12. A target for a conducted electrical weapon, the target comprising:

a target body having a three-dimensional shape;

13. The target of claim 12, wherein the target body comprises multiple target zones arranged adjacent to each other along an outer surface of the target body, each of the target zones comprising one or more layers that extend into the interior volume of the target body;

14. The target of claim 13, wherein the multiple target zones have differing electrical conductivities, the multiple target zones comprising:

a first target zone that comprises the electrically-conductive material and is configured to conduct the electric current provided by the conducted electrical weapon; and

a second target zone that does not comprise the electrically-conductive material and is not configured to conduct the electric current provided by the conducted electrical weapon.

15. The target of claim 14, wherein the first target zone comprises multiple overlapping layers having differing electrical conductivities, the multiple layers comprising:

a first layer that comprises the electrically-conductive material and is configured to conduct the electric current provided by the conducted electrical weapon; and

a second layer that does not comprise the electrically-conductive material and is not configured to conduct the electric current provided by the conducted electrical weapon.

16. The target of claim 13, wherein the multiple target zones have differing densities.

17. The target of claim 16, wherein at least one of the multiple target zones comprises multiple overlapping layers having differing densities.

18. The target of claim 12, wherein the target body comprises multiple overlapping layers having differing electrical conductivities, the multiple layers comprising:

19. The target of claim 12, wherein the target body comprises multiple overlapping layers having differing densities.

20. The target of claim 12, wherein the target body has a humanoid shape that represents a corresponding portion of a human body, the target body comprising at least one of:

a torso portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents a human torso;

a legs portion having a three-dimensional shape that represents human legs.