Pulse-powered incapacitating device comprising a high-voltage electric transformation module

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical pulse incapacitating device (100), comprising first electrodes (111) for neutralizing a target at a distance from the device, and second electrodes (120) for neutralizing a target in contact with the device, and further comprising: - a low voltage electrical energy source (131), - a high voltage electrical transformation module (133), configured to transform the low voltage direct current into a so-called high voltage differential voltage, - a first discharge module (140), configured to generate an incapacitating electrical signal from said high voltage differential voltage, and to deliver said incapacitating electrical signal to said first electrodes;- a second discharge module (141), configured to transform the high-voltage differential voltage into an alternating voltage known as very high voltage and to deliver a very high voltage electric current to said second electrodes.;

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The field of the invention is that of electrical pulse devices, configured to neutralize a target by the flow of an electric current through it.

[0002] More specifically, the invention relates to an electrical pulse incapacitating device comprising a high voltage electrical transformation module.

[0003] The invention also relates to a method of electrically discharging such a device. STATE OF THE ART

[0004] We know of electrical pulse devices that are configured to neutralize a target by passing an electric current through it, and in particular through skin tissue.

[0005] The target could, for example, be a human individual or an animal.

[0006] This current can reduce the target's ability to control voluntary movements, such as those involved in walking or running.

[0007] In addition, the current can cause the target a painful sensation that deters it from continuing its movements.

[0008] The current can also cause involuntary contraction of certain muscles in the target, thus reducing its ability to control its own muscle movements, and thus preventing its movement.

[0009] The current delivered by such a device comprises a series of brief electrical pulses, otherwise known as an electrical pulse train, having a specific waveform.

[0010] The so-called incapacitating electrical signal is designed to stimulate the nervous system controlling muscle movements in order to allow neutralization of the target.

[0011] However, the incapacitating electrical signal is also designed to be sufficiently weak, and limited in time to avoid any unwanted electrical stimulation, such as that of the heart muscle and / or any medical device intended to regulate its function.

[0012] For example, such an electrically powered device can be an electrically powered weapon, or CEW in English terminology (for Conducted Electrical Weapon). It could, for example, be an electroshock weapon, also known as a pulsed electric pistol.

[0013] Current can be delivered to the target by means of electrodes on the electrical pulse device. This mode, known as contact mode, involves bringing the device into contact with, or in the immediate vicinity of, the target to deliver an electrical current.

[0014] Current can also be delivered to the target using one or more electrodes, known as "projected" electrodes, connected to the electrical pulse device by cables. This mode, called remote or "probe" mode, allows the device and its user to remain at a distance from the target while delivering an electrical current.

[0015] The devices known in the technique generally only allow operation in one or the other mode, which proves problematic when a user of the electrical pulse device is facing two targets simultaneously.

[0016] There is therefore a need for an electrical pulse device that allows a current to be delivered in a particularly convenient and efficient manner simultaneously to a first target, in particular located at a distance from the device, and to a second target, located in contact with the device. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of the drawbacks of the prior art mentioned above.

[0018] To this end, the invention relates to an electrical pulse incapacitating device, configured to neutralize a target by the flow of an electric current through it, comprising first electrodes configured to be propelled towards a target to neutralize it at a distance from the device, and second electrodes configured to be placed in contact with a target to neutralize it upon contact with the device, and further comprising: an electrical power source configured to provide a direct current voltage referred to as low voltage, a high voltage electrical transformation module, configured to transform the direct current low voltage supplied by the electrical power source into a differential voltage referred to as high voltage, a first discharge module, electrically connected to the high voltage electrical transformation module, configured to generate an incapacitating electrical signal from said high voltage differential voltage, and to deliver said incapacitating electrical signal to said first electrodes; a second discharge module, electrically connected to the high voltage electrical transformation module in parallel with the first discharge module, configured to transform the high voltage differential voltage into an alternating current referred to as very high voltage and to deliver a very high voltage electrical current to said second electrodes.

[0019] In particular, the value of the high-voltage differential voltage is greater than the value of the low-voltage DC voltage.

[0020] In particular, the value of the very high voltage alternating current is greater than the value of the high voltage differential current.

[0021] By transformation into a differential voltage, we mean the supply at the terminals of the high voltage electrical transformation module of an electrical voltage differential between a positive DC voltage with respect to a reference potential and a negative DC voltage with respect to a reference potential.

[0022] In particular, the first discharge module can be configured to deliver said incapacitating electrical signal exclusively to said first electrodes, and the second discharge module can be configured to deliver a very high voltage electrical current exclusively to said second electrodes.

[0023] In particular, the first discharge module and the second discharge module are distinct from each other.

[0024] The first discharge module and the second discharge module are both connected at the input to the high voltage electrical transformation module, which provides the same differential input voltage to the discharge modules.

[0025] In particular, the first discharge module and the second discharge module can be operated independently, for example selectively on command by a user, and this selectively simultaneously or non-simultaneously.

[0026] In other words, the device can be configured to allow the choice of targeted actuation of only one of the discharge modules or of both discharge modules simultaneously.

[0027] The device according to the invention makes it possible to generate both an incapacitating electrical signal intended for the electrodes for the neutralization of a target at a distance, i.e. the projected electrodes, and an electrical current intended for the electrodes for the neutralization of a target in contact, i.e. the contact electrodes.

[0028] The incapacitating electrical current intended to be delivered via the first electrodes is, for example, an incapacitating neuromuscular signal, designed to stimulate the nervous system controlling muscle movements in order to enable neutralization of the target.

[0029] The transmission of such an incapacitating electric current is achieved when the first electrodes are anchored to the target at a minimum distance from each other, for example, about 200 millimeters. For this purpose, the first electrodes can be arranged on the device at an angle to each other, rather than parallel to each other, so that they are projected in substantially divergent directions.

[0030] The electric current intended to be delivered through the second electrodes is a very high voltage electric current, designed to produce an unpleasant sensation to the target, located near the point of contact of the second electrodes on the target.

[0031] When the second electrodes are not in contact with the target, the very high voltage electric current can generate an electric arc between the second electrodes, producing a deterrent effect on the target.

[0032] In particular, thanks to the device according to the invention, the incapacitating signal carried by the projected electrodes and / or the electric current carried by the contact electrodes can be delivered either simultaneously or independently of each other.

[0033] In addition, unlike the known technique, the device allows the incapacitating electrical signal and the electrical current to be generated by means of a differential voltage, which makes it possible to generate an incapacitating electrical signal by means of a more compact device in particular thanks to a smaller dimensioning of the electronic components of the high voltage transformation module as well as the discharge modules, which is thus made possible.

[0034] In the device according to the invention, a single high-voltage electrical transformation module makes it possible to generate both a very high-voltage signal for the shock electrodes and an incapacitating electrical signal for the projected electrodes.

[0035] The differential voltage generated by the high-voltage electrical transformation module allows the construction of the incapacitating electrical signal by means of lower power components, for example by frequency and / or amplitude modulation of the differential voltage, or by any other means.

[0036] The result is a simple electrical pulse device that is easier to design and maintain, more reliable, and less expensive.

[0037] The first electrodes, and possibly second electrodes, may be part of at least one removable cartridge of the device, which is intended to be inserted into a receiving bay of the device, and to remain in place on the device after the projection of the first electrodes, the second electrodes being formed directly on the cartridge and not intended to be projected.

[0038] Thus, the invention also relates to an electrical pulse incapacitating device, configured to neutralize a target by the flow of an electric current through it, the device being configured to receive first electrodes intended to be propelled towards a target to neutralize it at a distance from the device, the first electrodes preferably equipping at least one cartridge and the device preferably being equipped with at least one cartridge receiving bay, and the device either includes second electrodes intended to be placed in contact with a target to neutralize it upon contact with the device, or is configured to receive second electrodes intended to be placed in contact with a target to neutralize it upon contact with the device and the second electrodes preferably equipping at least one cartridge, and the device further comprising: an electrical power source configured to provide a direct current voltage referred to as low voltage, a high voltage electrical transformation module, configured to transform the direct current low voltage supplied by the electrical power source into a differential voltage referred to as high voltage, a first discharge module, electrically connected to the high voltage electrical transformation module, configured to generate an incapacitating electrical signal from said high voltage differential voltage, and to deliver said incapacitating electrical signal to said first electrodes; a second discharge module, electrically connected to the high voltage electrical transformation module in parallel with the first discharge module, configured to transform the high voltage differential voltage into an alternating current referred to as very high voltage and to deliver a very high voltage electrical current to said second electrodes.

[0039] The device is preferably an electric incapacitating gun.

[0040] The device may also be a shield, in particular for ballistic protection, or a mobile vector, for example an aerial, land or marine drone.

[0041] According to another embodiment, the first electrodes can be formed directly on the device rather than on a removable cartridge, and can be arranged at a fixed distance from each other on the device, for example about 200 millimeters apart.

[0042] In other words, the first electrodes can be fixed electrodes designed to neutralize the target on contact with it, rather than being projected towards the target.

[0043] In other words, both the first and second electrodes can be designed to incapacitate the target upon contact with it, the first electrodes being configured to deliver an incapacitating electrical current or signal to the target, i.e., an incapacitating neuromuscular signal, designed to stimulate the nervous system controlling muscle movements in order to enable neutralization of the target, and the second electrodes being configured to deliver a very high voltage current designed to produce an unpleasant sensation to the target, located near the point of contact of the second electrodes on the target.

[0044] Thus, the invention also relates to an electrical pulse incapacitating device, configured to neutralize a target by the flow of an electric current through it, the device comprising first electrodes and second electrodes, each intended to be placed in contact with a target to neutralize it upon contact with the device, the device further comprising: an electrical power source configured to provide a direct current voltage referred to as low voltage, a high voltage electrical transformation module, configured to transform the direct current low voltage supplied by the electrical power source into a differential voltage referred to as high voltage, a first discharge module, electrically connected to the high voltage electrical transformation module configured to generate an incapacitating electrical signal from said high voltage differential voltage, and to deliver said incapacitating electrical signal to said first electrodes; a second discharge module, electrically connected to the high voltage electrical transformation module in parallel with the first discharge module, configured to transform the high voltage differential voltage into an alternating current referred to as very high voltage and to deliver a very high voltage electrical current to said second electrodes.

[0045] In such an embodiment, the device is preferably a shield, in particular a ballistic protection shield.

[0046] Other particularly advantageous features of the device according to the invention, according to any of the aforementioned embodiments or variants, are described below.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the high-voltage electrical transformation module comprises a so-called positive voltage branch and a so-called negative voltage branch; the positive voltage branch, respectively the negative voltage branch, being configured to transform the low-voltage DC voltage into a high-voltage DC voltage of positive polarity, respectively negative polarity; to generate said high-voltage differential voltage between the positive voltage branch and the negative voltage branch.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the positive voltage branch, respectively the negative voltage branch, includes an inverter configured to transform the low voltage DC voltage into a so-called low voltage AC voltage, an electrical transformer configured to transform the low voltage AC voltage into a high voltage AC voltage, and a rectifier bridge configured to transform the high voltage AC voltage into a so-called positive, respectively negative, high voltage DC voltage.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the high-voltage electrical transformation module further includes a direct current-to-direct current converter, disposed between said energy source and said voltage branches.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the first discharge module includes at least one transistor, preferably a field-effect transistor, which is configured to generate the incapacitating electrical signal from said high-voltage differential voltage.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, at least one transistor is configured to form an incapacitating electrical signal comprising a train of electrical pulses, and to adjust the amplitude and / or duration of an electrical pulse of said pulse train according to a command received by at least one transistor.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the device further includes a selection means for selecting an electrical charge to be delivered to the target, and the device is configured to generate said setpoint according to the selected electrical charge.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the selection means associates a target profile with each electrical load, so that the device is configured to generate said setpoint according to a selected target profile and to which a corresponding electrical load is associated.

[0054] For example, the target profile may include weight / body size, and / or height, and / or age (as an exact or approximate value, within a range of values, or qualitatively and not numerically). The target profile may also include the target's gender, and / or their perceived behavior as seen by a user of the device (neutral, aggressive, etc.).

[0055] The selection means may include at least one push button, slider, rotary dial, touch interface, touch screen, etc., configured to allow adjustment of the electrical load, including in an absolute manner or according to the target profile, for example defined according to one or more of the aforementioned criteria.

[0056] Selecting an appropriate charge level, particularly according to the target profile, is especially advantageous as it allows for the delivery of an incapacitating charge tailored to the threat posed by the target, while reducing or eliminating any risk of harm to the target's physical integrity.

[0057] This makes it possible in particular to provide a device that complies with the laws in force in certain States, requiring for example that a user of an incapacitating device with electrical impulses provide a response proportionate to the threat posed by a target.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, wherein the second discharge module includes an electrical transformer, configured to transform said high-voltage differential voltage into said very high-voltage alternating voltage.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the device further comprises an electrical capacitance disposed between, on the one hand, the high voltage electrical transformation module and, on the other hand, the first discharge module and the second discharge module, the electrical capacitance having a nominal voltage at least equivalent to said high voltage differential.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, said low voltage DC voltage is a voltage between 6V and 9V, and / or said high voltage differential voltage is a voltage between + / - 600V and + / - 900V, and / or said very high voltage AC voltage is a voltage between 50kV and 70kV.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the device includes a wireless connection element to a portable computing terminal, preferably a smart phone (smartphone) or a wearable computing terminal (for example, a connected smart watch or connected smart bracelet).

[0062] The invention also relates, according to a second aspect, to a system comprising a device as described above and a portable computer terminal, configured to be wirelessly connected to said device, the portable computer terminal having or forming a selection means for selecting an electrical charge to be delivered to the target, and the device being configured to generate said setpoint according to the selected electrical charge, and preferably, the selection means associates a target profile with each electrical charge, so that the device is configured to generate said setpoint according to a selected target profile and to which a corresponding electrical charge is associated.

[0063] The invention also relates, according to a third aspect, to a method for electrically discharging a device as described above, comprising: a discharge step, via the first discharge module, of an incapacitating electrical signal to the first target; and, a discharge step, via the second discharge module, of a very high voltage electrical current to a second target in contact with the second electrodes of the device.

[0064] The steps can be carried out simultaneously, or successively in any order. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0065] Other advantages, purposes and particular features of the present invention will become apparent from the following non-limiting description of at least one particular embodiment of the devices and methods of the present invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: there figure 1 schematically represents an electrical pulse device according to the invention; the figure 2is a block diagram of an electrical system of the electrical pulse device of the figure 1 ; there figure 3 is a synoptic diagram of a method for generating an incapacitating electrical signal according to the invention, implemented by the electrical pulse device of the Figures 1 And 2 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0066] The present description is given by way of non-limiting attribution, each feature of an embodiment being able to be advantageously combined with any other feature of any other embodiment.

[0067] It should be noted from the outset that the figures are not necessarily to scale.

[0068] There figure 1 represents a 100 electrical pulse device which is here an electrical pulse gun.

[0069] The device 100 includes a body having a handle 101, by which the device 100 can be manipulated with one or two hands, and a trigger 102 by means of which the device 100 can be operated by pressing a finger of the hand.

[0070] The body also includes a bridge 103 extending around the trigger 102 and protecting it from accidental activation.

[0071] Device 100 also includes a safety notch 104 which allows device 100 to be locked and unlocked.

[0072] The body contains at least one cavity (not shown), open at the front end 105 of the body, i.e. intended to be oriented towards a target, and the device 100 includes a removable cartridge 110 which can be inserted into the cavity.

[0073] The cartridge 110 includes at least two first electrodes 111 which are configured to be propelled out of the cartridge in the direction of a target.

[0074] The first electrodes 111 each have, for example, a body 114 and a dart 112 designed to anchor itself in the skin and / or clothing of the target, as well as a cable or electrical wire 113 connecting the dart 112 to the cartridge and thus to the body of the device 100.

[0075] In addition, the device 100 advantageously includes two second electrodes 120, arranged at the front end 105 of the body, which are fixed and spaced apart from each other.

[0076] According to one variant, the second electrodes 120 can be formed on the cartridge 110 rather than on the body.

[0077] The second 120 electrodes, known as shock electrodes, are configured to be applied in contact with a target, on its skin and / or clothing.

[0078] The device 100 includes an electrical system 130, arranged inside the body, which is configured to generate and deliver an electric current to the first electrodes 111 and / or the second electrodes 120, from an electrical power source embedded in the device 100.

[0079] The first 111 electrodes are configured here to deliver an incapacitating electrical signal, presenting a waveform adapted to stimulate the nervous system controlling the muscle movements of the target, in order to enable its neutralization.

[0080] The second 120 electrodes are configured here to deliver a very high voltage electrical current to the target, in a localized manner on the target, in order to cause an unpleasant or painful sensation that deters it from continuing its movements.

[0081] A particularly advantageous embodiment of the electrical system 130 of the device 100 will now be described with reference to the figure 2 which schematically illustrates such a system.

[0082] The electrical system 130 includes an electrical energy source which here is an electrical battery 131, that is to say an electrical accumulator.

[0083] Such a battery 131 is configured to supply a direct current (DC) voltage, for example with a nominal voltage between 7.4 Volts (V) and 8.4 V, and is preferably around 7.4 V, relative to a reference potential which is considered to be 0 V. The direct current voltage supplied by the battery 131 is here referred to as low voltage.

[0084] The capacity of the 131 battery, for example, is between 1100 milliampere-hours (mAh) and 1200 mAh, and is preferably around 1200 mAh.

[0085] The electrical system 130 may advantageously include a direct current-direct current converter 132, called a DCDC converter, located downstream of the battery 131.

[0086] Converter 132 is specifically configured to convert the output voltage of battery 131 into a DC voltage over a range between 6V and 8.4V.

[0087] This makes it possible in particular to compensate for a drop in the voltage delivered by the battery 131 during its discharge, and / or to adjust significantly the voltages of the electrical signals delivered by the electrodes 111 and 120.

[0088] The electrical system 130 includes a high-voltage electrical transformation module 133, configured to transform the low-voltage direct current supplied by the battery 131, or by the converter 132 if necessary, into a differential voltage known as high voltage.

[0089] The differential voltage of high voltage is for example between + / - 600 V and + / - 900 V, and is preferably around + / - 700 V.

[0090] Differential voltage means that the high voltage electrical transformation module 133 provides at output a positive voltage relative to the reference potential and a negative voltage of the same value relative to the reference potential, and that the total potential difference is double this value (peak-to-peak voltage).

[0091] Thus, the peak-to-peak potential difference is, for example, between 1200 V and 1800 V, and is preferentially around 1400 V.

[0092] For this purpose, the high voltage electrical transformation module 133 includes a so-called positive voltage branch 134 and a so-called negative voltage branch 135.

[0093] Each of the voltage branches 134 and 135 includes an inverter 136, which is configured to transform the low voltage direct current, supplied by the battery 131, or by the converter 132 if necessary, into a so-called low voltage alternating current (AC).

[0094] For example, the low voltage alternating current is approximately 20 V.

[0095] Each of the voltage branches 134 and 135 further includes a first electrical transformer 137 configured to transform the low voltage alternating voltage, supplied by the inverter 136, into a high voltage alternating voltage.

[0096] For example, high-voltage alternating voltage is between 600 V and 900 V, and is preferably around 700 V.

[0097] Each of the voltage branches 134 and 135 also includes a rectifier bridge, designated 138 and 138b respectively, configured to transform the high-voltage alternating voltage into a so-called high-voltage direct voltage, respectively negative.

[0098] The rectifier bridge 138a located on the positive voltage branch 134 is configured to rectify the alternating voltage supplied by the first electrical transformer 137 into a direct voltage having a positive potential difference (DC+) with respect to the reference potential, while the rectifier bridge 138b located on the negative voltage branch 135 is configured to rectify the alternating voltage supplied by the first electrical transformer 137 into a direct voltage having a negative potential difference (DC-) with respect to the reference potential.

[0099] This results in a differential voltage, known as high voltage, at the output of the high voltage electrical transformation module 133.

[0100] The electrical system 130 may further include at least one electrical capacitance, which here is a capacitor 139.

[0101] The capacitor 139 has a nominal voltage which corresponds to the differential voltage supplied by the high voltage electrical transformation module 133.

[0102] Preferably, the capacitance of capacitor 139 corresponds to a maximum amount of electrical energy that can be delivered to a target during one actuation cycle of device 100.

[0103] For example, the capacitance of capacitor 139 is between 20 nanofarads (nF) and 150 nF, and is preferably around 100 nF.

[0104] The electrical system 130 here includes a first discharge module 140, and a second discharge module 141 electrically parallel to the first discharge module 140.

[0105] The first discharge module 140 is electrically powered by the capacitor 139, which is configured to provide the high-voltage differential voltage.

[0106] The first discharge module 140 includes a positive line 142 and a negative line 143, each connected to a separate first electrode 111.

[0107] The first discharge module 140 also includes a transistor 144, preferably a field-effect transistor of the MOS type, on each of the lines 142 and 143.

[0108] The 144 transistors are configured to be controlled to build the incapacitating electrical signal from the high-voltage differential voltage, according to a predetermined waveform.

[0109] In particular, the generated incapacitating electrical signal comprises a train of electrical pulses, including a plurality of pulses of given amplitude and duration.

[0110] Preferably, the incapacitating electrical signal can be adjusted in particular in amplitude and duration of electrical pulses, in response to the reception of an adjustment instruction by the transistors 144, as described below.

[0111] The second discharge module 141 also includes a positive line 145 and a negative line 146, each electrically connected to one of the second electrodes 120.

[0112] More specifically, the second discharge module 141 includes a second transformer 147, which is configured to transform the differential voltage supplied by the capacitor 139 into an alternating voltage known as very high voltage.

[0113] For example, the very high voltage alternating voltage is between 50 kV and 70 kV, and is preferably around 60 kV.

[0114] The second discharge module 141 thus directly delivers a very high voltage alternating current to the second electrodes 120.

[0115] When the device 100 is not in contact with a target, and the second electrodes 120 are separated by air, the actuation of the shock electrodes can result in the ionization of the air and the formation of an electric arc.

[0116] When contact with a target is established, and the air layers between the electrodes and the target have been ionized, i.e. the impedance decreases, the voltage established across the electrodes 120 decreases and is on the order of 3 to 4 kilovolts (kV).

[0117] Preferably, the second discharge module 141 may include one or more, for example two, gas tube(s) 148, called GDT for "gas discharge tube" in English terminology, on each of the positive line 145 and negative line 146 upstream of the transformer 147, and which is configured to play a role as a switch.

[0118] For example, the rated voltage of the gas tube 148 is between 1000 and 2000 V. The gas tube(s) 148 conduct current through lines 145 and 146 when the differential voltage across the capacitor is greater than this value.

[0119] The electrical system 130 as described above is thus configured to deliver a high-voltage differential voltage, which allows the simultaneous delivery of an incapacitating electrical signal to the first electrodes 111, and a high-voltage electrical current to the second electrodes 120, and thus simultaneously neutralize a target at a distance and a target in contact with the device 100.

[0120] The incapacitating electrical signal and / or the electric current can be delivered periodically, at a predetermined frequency, and / or with a predetermined intensity.

[0121] For this purpose, the device 100 includes a processing module 160, which may, for example, include a microcontroller or microprocessor and a non-volatile storage memory.

[0122] The processing module 160 is configured to drive the transistors 144 in order to generate the incapacitating electrical signal, delivered by the first electrodes 111, according to an electrical charge setpoint.

[0123] The electrical charge to be delivered can, for example, be manually adjusted by a user of device 100 according to the target's profile, i.e., in particular according to its sex, build, age, behavior, etc.

[0124] For this purpose, the device 100 may include a selection means (not shown), for example of the type push button, slider, rotary dial, touch interface, touch screen, etc., configured to allow adjustment of the electrical load.

[0125] In addition or as an alternative, device 100 may include a wireless connection device (not shown) to a portable computer terminal (not shown).

[0126] For example, the portable computing terminal can be a so-called "smartphone" or a wearable computing terminal, such as a connected smartwatch or connected smart bracelet.

[0127] The handheld computer terminal may include or form the selection means for selecting an electrical charge to be delivered to the target, and the device 100 may be configured to generate the setpoint based on the electrical charge selected via the handheld computer terminal.

[0128] For example, when the portable computer terminal has a touch screen, the electrical charge can be entered via the touch screen of the portable computer terminal.

[0129] Whether the selection means is trained on the device 100 and / or on the portable computer terminal, the selection means can associate a target profile with each electrical load, so that the device 100 is configured to generate the setpoint according to a selected target profile and to which a corresponding electrical load is associated.

[0130] For example, when the portable computer terminal has a touch screen, the selection means can be formed by the display of a textual or graphic input form (e.g., pictograms representing a target's build and / or height and / or sex), the electrical charge being determined by the selection means according to the target profile selected via the touch screen.

[0131] In another embodiment, the electrical charge setpoint can be determined by device 100 essentially without user intervention.

[0132] Device 100 is configured to implement a method 200 for generating an incapacitating electrical signal, schematically illustrated in the figure 3 .

[0133] The process 200 may include a preliminary step 205 of selecting the electrical charge to be delivered to the target, for example through the selection means as described above.

[0134] The process 200 includes a step 220 of constructing an incapacitating electrical signal as a function of the electrical charge to be delivered to the target.

[0135] The incapacitating electrical signal that is generated comprises at least one train of electrical pulses, each of a given amplitude and duration, the signal being configured to stimulate the target's nervous system in such a way as to neutralize it when delivered to it by means of the first electrodes, i.e. to allow neuromuscular neutralization of the target.

[0136] The construction of an incapacitating electrical signal is known in principle from the technique. Various types of pulse waveforms for such a signal, capable of stimulating the nervous system, are known and can be used here to construct the incapacitating electrical signal.

[0137] The selection of the electrical load during step 205 may include the selection of a pulse amplitude and / or a pulse duration and / or a total pulse train duration.

[0138] In particular, construction step 220 may include adjusting the amplitude and / or duration of one or more pulses of the pulse train, depending on the selected electrical load, from a default constructed incapacitating electrical signal, or initial incapacitating electrical signal.

[0139] For example, the default incapacitating electrical signal may consist of a pulse train with a frequency between 15 and 20 Hz, over a period of about 5 seconds, which corresponds to 75 to 100 pulses in the incapacitating electrical signal.

[0140] For example, during step 220, the duration of the pulses, and therefore of the pulse train, can be reduced if the target is relatively small in build, and / or elderly, and / or female, and / or in a calm state. Conversely, it can be increased if the target is relatively large in build, and / or young, and / or male, and / or in an agitated state.

[0141] For example, during step 220, the amplitude of the pulses may be reduced if the target is of relatively small build, and / or old, and / or female and / or in a calm state, and conversely increased if the target is of relatively large build, and / or young, and / or male and / or in an agitated state.

[0142] The process 200 then includes a step 240 of generating the incapacitating electrical signal, previously constructed.

[0143] In particular, the incapacitating electrical signal is generated by the control of transistors 144 by the processing module 160, in response to a setpoint generated by the processing module 160 so as to obtain the incapacitating electrical signal, presenting an adjusted electrical charge where appropriate.

[0144] The incapacitating electrical signal is delivered to the first electrodes 111, which have previously been propelled towards the target, and which are attached to it, either directly on the skin or on its clothing.

[0145] The result is that an incapacitating electrical signal adapted to the profile of the remote target can be delivered remotely to it, and at the same time or not that an electric current is delivered in contact with a target close to the device 100 via the second electrodes 120.

[0146] This allows the capabilities of device 100 to be extended while allowing the transmitted electrical charge to be adapted according to the profile of a distant target.

[0147] According to an embodiment not shown, the electrical pulse incapacitating device can be a shield, for example of the riot control type or of the ballistic type.

[0148] The shield has an inner face, intended to be oriented towards the bearer of the shield, and an outer face, intended to be oriented away from the bearer, for example towards a target.

[0149] The shield may, for example, include a handle on its inner face, and have a trigger on the handle.

[0150] The shield's operation is also similar to the operation of the electric pulse incapacitating gun described above, and allows the neutralization of an individual remotely via the projected electrodes 111 and preferentially also in contact via the contact electrodes 120.

[0151] According to another unillustrated embodiment, the electrical pulse incapacitating device can be a mobile vector, for example an aerial, terrestrial or marine drone.

[0152] In particular, the device can be triggered remotely, as the drone has remote communication capabilities for this purpose.

[0153] The mobile vector can also be a vehicle, such as a riot control vehicle.

[0154] In all the embodiments, illustrated and not illustrated, described above, the device includes first electrodes, configured to deliver an incapacitating electrical signal, i.e. an incapacitating neuromuscular signal, to the target, and second electrodes, configured to deliver a very high voltage electrical current to the target.

[0155] As described above, the first electrodes can be intended to be projected towards a target to neutralize it at a distance from the device, and the second electrodes can be intended to be placed in contact with a target to neutralize it in contact with the device.

[0156] The first and second electrodes can be formed on one or more removable cartridges of the device.

[0157] The first electrodes can be formed on one or more removable cartridges of the device, while the second electrodes can be formed directly on the device and fixed to it.

[0158] The first electrodes and the second electrodes can be formed directly on the device.

[0159] In other embodiments, the first and second electrodes may be intended to be placed in contact with a target to neutralize it upon contact with the device.

[0160] In other words, the first electrodes may not be propelled but fixed on the device, preferably with a minimum distance between them, corresponding for example to about 200 millimeters.

[0161] It should be noted that the invention is not limited to the examples described and illustrated.

Claims

1. Electrical pulse incapacitating device (100), configured to neutralize a target by the flow of an electric current through it, characterized in thatit includes first electrodes (111) configured to be propelled towards a target to neutralize it at a distance from the device, and second electrodes (120) configured to be placed in contact with a target to neutralize it upon contact with the device, and further comprising: - an electrical energy source (131) configured to provide a direct current voltage referred to as low voltage, - a high voltage electrical transformation module (133), configured to transform the direct current low voltage supplied by the electrical energy source (131) into a differential voltage referred to as high voltage, - a first discharge module (140), electrically connected to the high voltage electrical transformation module (133), configured to generate an incapacitating electrical signal from said high voltage differential voltage, and to deliver said incapacitating electrical signal to said first electrodes (111);- a second discharge module (141), electrically connected to the high voltage electrical transformation module (133) in parallel with the first discharge module (140), configured to transform the high voltage differential voltage into an alternating voltage known as very high voltage and to deliver a very high voltage electric current to said second electrodes (120).; 2. Device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first discharge module (140) and the second discharge module (141) are actuable independently, selectively simultaneously or non-simultaneously.

3. Device (100) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the high voltage electrical transformation module (133) comprises a so-called positive voltage branch (134) and a so-called negative voltage branch (135); the positive voltage branch (134), respectively the negative voltage branch (135), being configured to transform the low voltage DC into a high voltage DC of positive polarity, respectively negative polarity; to generate said high voltage differential between the positive voltage branch (134) and the negative voltage branch (135).

4. Device (100) according to claim 3, wherein the positive voltage branch (134), respectively the negative voltage branch (135), comprises an inverter (136) configured to transform the low voltage direct current into a so-called low voltage alternating current, an electrical transformer (137) configured to transform the low voltage alternating current into a high voltage alternating current, and a rectifier bridge (138a, 138b) configured to transform the high voltage alternating current into a so-called positive, respectively negative, high voltage direct current.

5. Device (100) according to any one of claims 3 or 4, wherein the high voltage electrical transformation module (133) further comprises a direct current-direct current converter (132), disposed between said energy source (131) and said voltage branches (134, 135).

6. Device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first discharge module (140) comprises at least one transistor (144), preferably a field-effect transistor, which is configured to generate the incapacitating electrical signal from said high-voltage differential voltage.

7. Device (100) according to claim 6, wherein at least one transistor (144) is configured to form an incapacitating electrical signal comprising a train of electrical pulses, and to adjust the amplitude and / or duration of an electrical pulse of said train of pulses according to a setpoint received by at least one transistor (144).

8. Device (100) according to claim 7, further comprising a selection means for selecting an electrical charge to be delivered to the target, and the device being configured to generate said setpoint according to the selected electrical charge.

9. Device (100) according to claim 8, wherein the selection means associates a target profile with each electrical charge, so that the device is configured to generate said setpoint according to a selected target profile and to which a corresponding electrical charge is associated.

10. Device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the second discharge module (141) comprises an electrical transformer (147), configured to transform said high-voltage differential voltage into said very high-voltage alternating voltage.

11. Device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising an electrical capacitor (139) disposed between, on the one hand, the high voltage electrical transformation module (133) and, on the other hand, the first discharge module (140) and the second discharge module (141), the electrical capacitor (139) having a nominal voltage at least equivalent to said high voltage differential.

12. Device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said low voltage DC voltage is a voltage between 6V and 9V, and / or said high voltage differential voltage is a voltage between + / - 600V and + / - 900V, and / or said very high voltage AC voltage is a voltage between 50kV and 70kV.

13. Device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising a wireless connection element to a portable computing terminal, preferably a smartphone or a wearable computing terminal.

14. System comprising a device (100) according to claim 13 and a portable computer terminal, configured to be wirelessly connected to said device (100), the portable computer terminal comprising or forming a selection means for selecting an electrical charge to be delivered to the target, and the device being configured to generate said setpoint according to the selected electrical charge, and preferably, the selection means associates a target profile with each electrical charge, so that the device is configured to generate said setpoint according to a selected target profile and to which a corresponding electrical charge is associated.

15. Method for electrically discharging a device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising: - a discharge step, via the first discharge module, of an incapacitating electrical signal to the first target; and - a discharge step, via the second discharge module, of a very high voltage electric current to a second target in contact with the second electrodes of the device.

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