Cartridge for electrical pulse incapacitating device

Abstract

The invention relates to a cartridge (200) for an electrically pulsed incapacitating device (100), comprising a cartridge body containing at least two internal cavities (230) opening downstream of said cartridge body, and a pressure chamber (235) arranged upstream of said cavities and communicating with them. The cartridge further comprises a propellant element capable of generating pressure in the pressure chamber, and two electrodes (210), each received in one of said at least two cavities and configured to be propelled out of the cavities under the effect of said pressure. The propellant element comprises a pyrotechnic charge (237) configured to generate said pressure in the pressure chamber directly by its own combustion. (See Figure 6 for abbreviations.)

Description

Title of the invention: Cartridge for an electrical pulse incapacitating device. 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 a cartridge for an electrical pulse incapacitating device. STATE OF THE ART

[0003] It is known from the prior art of cartridge techniques for electrical pulse incapacitating devices, in particular for electric pulse guns.

[0004] Such devices are configured to neutralize a target by propelling at least two electrodes towards the target, and then by passing an incapacitating electrical signal through the electrodes as well as through the target. This method of neutralizing a target at a distance is also called the "probe" method, and the electrodes are said to be "projected".

[0005] The electric current is such that it can reduce the target's ability to control its voluntary movements, such as those leading to walking or running, and / or cause the target a painful sensation that deters it from continuing its movements.

[0006] Electrical pulse incapacitating devices are generally designed to operate with a cartridge that can be inserted into a bay of the device located at the front of it, and which can be replaced with a new cartridge after firing.

[0007] The cartridge includes at least two cavities in which the electrodes are received, and the cartridge is further configured to propel the electrodes forward out of the cavities when the electrical pulse incapacitating device is actuated.

[0008] The electrodes generally each comprise an electrode body and a dart configured to be attached to the target, in particular by penetration into the skin and / or flesh, and an electrical conductor such as an electrical wire, connecting the electrode body to the cartridge and through which the electrical signal is delivered to the electrodes from the electrical pulse incapacitating device, through the cartridge.

[0009] In known devices, the cartridge includes a pressurized gas reservoir, which is released when the device is actuation, so as to propel the electrodes out of the cartridge.

[0010] Such a pressurized gas reservoir is, however, bulky and its integration into a cartridge is complex.

[0011] Furthermore, this technique requires a reservoir percussion device to release the pressurized gas. The presence of this additional element complicates the design of such a cartridge, reduces its reliability, and also adds bulk and weight.

[0012] There is therefore a need for a cartridge for an electrical pulse incapacitating device which is particularly simple in design, compact and lightweight, while exhibiting high electrode projection performance. Description of the invention

[0013] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of the disadvantages of the prior art mentioned above.

[0014] To this end, the invention relates to a cartridge for an electrical pulse incapacitating device, comprising a cartridge body containing at least two internal cavities opening downstream of said cartridge body, and a pressure chamber arranged upstream of said cavities and communicating with them, the cartridge further comprising a propulsion element capable of generating pressure in the pressure chamber, and at least two electrodes each received in one of said at least two cavities and which are configured to be propelled out of the cavities under the effect of said pressure, the propulsion element comprising a pyrotechnic charge configured to generate said pressure in the pressure chamber directly by its own combustion.

[0015] Thus, the cartridge according to the invention makes it possible to generate a suitable pressure for the propulsion of the electrodes, said to be projected, directly by the combustion of the pyrotechnic charge, without requiring an additional element to generate the pressure.

[0016] In particular, no source or reservoir of pressurized gas is required in the cartridge.

[0017] This makes it possible to greatly simplify the design of the cartridge, which is also less bulky and lighter than cartridges known in the art.

[0018] Particularly convenient and advantageous features of the cartridge according to the invention are described below.

[0019] - The pyrotechnic charge is configured to generate a nominal pressure of about 40 bars in the pressure chamber, so as to generate a propulsion force on the electrodes of between about 30 N and about 45 N.

[0020] This ensures adequate propulsion of the electrodes towards the target, with sufficient speed, and allows an impact powerful enough for the electrodes to penetrate and / or hook the target, in order to deliver an incapacitating electrical signal to it.

[0021] - The pyrotechnic charge is configured to generate a pressure increase in the pressure chamber at approximately 30 bars per millisecond, until the nominal pressure is reached.

[0022] This ensures that the pressure rise in the pressure chamber is sufficiently rapid to allow the electrodes to be projected at an adequate speed.

[0023] - The pyrotechnic charge includes black powder.

[0024] The black powder forms at least in part the fuel, or combustible, of the pyrotechnic charge, and is intended to enter into combustion upon activation of the electrical pulse incapacitating device.

[0025] - The pyrotechnic charge is in the form of a capsule comprising a coated container holding a fuel and an ignition component.

[0026] In particular, the capsule is disposed in the pressure chamber.

[0027] - Said at least two cavities are configured to receive the electrodes with an adjustment by tightening, the adjustment being predetermined so as to maintain the electrodes in position each in their cavity during the combustion of the pyrotechnic charge until said nominal pressure is reached.

[0028] - Each electrode comprises a peripheral flange, widening substantially the electrodes, so as to allow adjustment by tightening the electrodes in the cavities.

[0029] In particular, the cavities receiving the electrodes are narrower than the electrodes at the level of their flanges, and this results in a tightening fit.

[0030] Preferably, the electrodes are cylindrical and the flanges extend over the circumference of the electrodes, preferably at the level of a front end of the electrodes.

[0031] Preferably, the collars have a height, i.e. a radial thickness, of about 0.1 millimeter, i.e. they widen the electrodes by about 0.2 millimeter.

[0032] - The cartridge comprises two cavities, each receiving an electrode, the chamber pressure comprising two conduits each communicating with one of the cavities and the pyrotechnic charge being arranged substantially centrally between the two branches.

[0033] - The pressure chamber is substantially V-shaped, each of the branches of the V-shaped, forming a conduit.

[0034] - The V-shaped arms are substantially angled, and the chamber of pressure includes a concavity between the branches of the V shape, oriented towards the pyrotechnic charge, forming a receptacle that can receive debris from the combustion of the pyrotechnic charge.

[0035] This makes it possible in particular to prevent debris from damaging the electrodes, and in particular from damaging an electrical conductor such as a wire or electrical cable connecting the electrodes to the cartridge.

[0036] - The electrodes received in the cavities comprise an electrode body and a electrical conductor connecting the electrode body to the cartridge body, the cartridge body comprising at least two protective fingers, each protective finger projecting into the pressure chamber at an outlet of the pressure chamber, opening onto the cavities, the electrical conductor of an electrode and the protective finger being configured to be at least partially opposite each other, the protective finger being interposed between the pyrotechnic charge and the electrical conductor.

[0037] This avoids exposing the electrical conductor to debris from the combustion of the pyrotechnic charge, and / or to the heat of combustion, which are likely to damage the conductor.

[0038] - The cartridge includes an interface for transferring an electrical signal from the device, the cartridge being configured to receive an electrical signal to trigger the pyrotechnic charge via said transfer interface.

[0039] - The cartridge comprises at least two electrically connected flanges each to one of the said electrodes, the electrical flanges being presented outside the said cartridge at a distance from each other, so as to allow the generation of an electric arc by the circulation of an electric current between the electrical flanges.

[0040] The electrical flanges allow the formation of so-called shock electrodes, adapted to neutralize a target on contact, directly on the cartridge.

[0041] The invention also relates, according to a second aspect, to an incapacitating device with electrical pulses, comprising a cartridge as described above.

[0042] In particular, the electrical pulse incapacitating device is an electrical pulse gun. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0043] 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: • Fig. 1 schematically represents an electrical pulse device comprising a cartridge according to the invention, according to a first embodiment; • [Fig.2] schematically represents an electrical pulse device comprising a cartridge according to the invention, according to a second embodiment; • [Fig.3] is a front perspective view of the cartouche of [Fig.1]; • [Fig.4] is a rear perspective view of the cartouche of [Fig.1]; • Figure 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an electrode of a cartridge according to the invention; • [Fig.6] is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the cartouche in figures 3 and 4; • [Fig.7] is a view similar to that of [Fig.3], but with some elements of the cartouche that are masked; • Fig. 8 represents a graph of pressure rise over time in the pressure chamber of the cartridge according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0044] The present description is given by way of non-limiting grammar, each feature of an embodiment being able to be advantageously combined with any other feature of any other embodiment.

[0045] It should be noted from the outset that the figures are not necessarily to scale.

[0046] Figure 1 represents an electrical pulse device, which is here a gun. electrical impulses.

[0047] The device 100 comprises 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, generally the index finger.

[0048] The body also includes a bridge 103 extending around the trigger 102 and protecting it from accidental actuation.

[0049] The device 100 further includes a safety notch 104 which allows the device 100 to be locked and unlocked, in order to authorize or not its actuation.

[0050] The body contains a cavity or bay (not shown), open at the level of a so-called front end 105 of the body, i.e. intended to be oriented towards a target.

[0051] The device 100 here includes a cartridge 200 which can be inserted into the cavity or bay, as shown in [Fig.1] where the cartridge 200 is inserted into the device 100. In other words, the cartridge 200 is removable from the body of the device 100.

[0052] The cartridge 200 includes a propellant element and at least two first electrodes 210 called "projected" electrodes which are configured to be propelled out of the cartridge in the direction of a target, by means of the triggering of the propellant element.

[0053] Furthermore, as described in more detail later, the cartridge 200 can include at least one pair, and here two pairs, of second electrodes 120 called shock electrodes, which are fixed on the cartridge 200 and spaced apart from each other.

[0054] The second electrodes 120, called shock electrodes, are configured to be applied in contact with a target, on its skin and / or its clothing.

[0055] Figure 2 illustrates a device 100 similar to that of Figure 1, comprising a cartridge 200, according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, the device 100 comprises two second electrodes 120, referred to as shock electrodes, arranged at the front end 105 of the body, directly on the body of the device 100 rather than on the cartridge, and which are fixed and spaced apart. The device 100 may, in particular, comprise a single pair of second electrodes 120, or more. The cartridge 200, however, is devoid of second electrodes 120, referred to as shock electrodes, in this embodiment.

[0056] The device 100 includes an electrical system (not visible), inside the body, which is configured to generate and deliver an electric current to the electrodes 210 called projected and / or to the electrodes 120 called shock, from an electrical energy source embedded in the device 100.

[0057] The first electrodes 210 are configured to deliver an incapacitating electrical signal, comprising a pulse train with a waveform adapted to stimulate the nervous system controlling the muscle movements of the target, in order to enable its neutralization.

[0058] The first electrodes 210, referred to as projected electrodes, here comprise an electrode body 211 and a dart 212 which is intended to anchor itself in the skin and / or clothing of the target, as well as an electrical conductor which is here an electrical cable or wire 213 connecting the dart 212 to the cartridge 200, and thus to the body of the device 100.

[0059] Figures 3 and 4 illustrate the cartridge 200 of [Fig.1] according to perspective views from the front and rear respectively.

[0060] The cartridge 200 includes a cartridge body 220 which is overall rectangular parallelepiped, and which can be inserted into the bay of the device 100.

[0061] Preferably, the cartridge body 220 is symmetrical along a horizontal longitudinal plane, and here also along a vertical longitudinal plane, and is configured to be inserted indifferently in either direction into the bay of the device 100.

[0062] The 220 cartridge body can, for example, be made of molded plastic and take the form of a sheath, open at one of its ends.

[0063] The cartridge body 220 comprises a front wall 221, a rear wall 222 opposite the front wall 221, and side walls 223 connecting the front wall 221 and the rear wall 222.

[0064] The front wall 221 is here substantially more extensive than the rear wall 222 and forms a rim at least in part around the side walls 223.

[0065] The front wall 221 includes expulsion openings 224 (not visible on [Fig.3] but visible on [Fig.1]) through which the first electrodes 210 can be expelled.

[0066] As can be seen in [Fig.3], the cartridge 200 can include covers 240, here two in number, covering the expulsion openings 224, allowing the so-called projected electrodes 210 to be protected from the environment, and vice versa.

[0067] The covers 240 here each include a dome 245, the concavity of which is turned towards the interior of the cartridge 200 and is intended to cover the dart 212 of a first electrode 210 called projected, when it is housed in the cartridge 200.

[0068] The caches 240 may further each include expulsion tabs 246 (described in more detail in connection with [Fig.6]), for example three in number, extending from the dome 245 into the interior of the cartridge 200.

[0069] The covers 240 can be held in the expulsion openings 224 for example by a slight tightening adjustment.

[0070] The cartridge 200 may further include an adhesive label 241 which is itself applied to the covers 240, and which may be used for displaying cartridge identification information, for example, and which may also be used to hold the covers 240 in the expulsion openings 224.

[0071] The cartridge 200 here includes gripping ears 225 which extend from the front wall 221 along two opposing lateral walls 223.

[0072] The gripping ears 225 here include concave recesses 226, adapted to correspond substantially to the shape of a fingertip, allowing easier gripping of the cartridge 200 between two fingers, in particular between the thumb and index finger.

[0073] In addition, the cartridge 200 may include lateral ribs 227, arranged on either side of the cartridge body 220 and extending along two opposing lateral walls 223. The bay of the device 100 includes grooves (not shown) corresponding to the ribs 227. Thus, the correct insertion and positioning of the cartridge 220 in the bay can be ensured.

[0074] The ribs 227 extend here on the same walls as the gripping ears 225, and extend substantially from these to about two-thirds of the length of the cartridge body 220.

[0075] In a first embodiment, the cartridge 200 can further comprise at least one pair of electrical flanges 228 on its front wall 221, and here comprises two pairs of electrical flanges 228 i.e. four electrical flanges 228. The electrical flanges 228 here each have a triangular end, the electrical flanges 228 of a pair thus having points directed towards each other.

[0076] The flanges 228 here form the second electrodes 120 called shock electrodes, according to one embodiment.

[0077] In the illustrated example, the electrical flanges 228 pass through the front wall 221, and emerge from a rear side of it, i.e. from a side oriented towards the bay of the device 100, and also join the interior of the cartridge 200 where they are electrically connected to the so-called projected electrodes 210.

[0078] The bay of the device 100 includes electrical contacts (not shown) configured to make electrical contact with the electrical flanges 228 on the rear side of the front wall 221, so as to conduct an electric current from the device 100 to the cartridge 200.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the electrical contacts presented on the bay of the device 100 can also form second electrodes 120 called shock electrodes when no cartridge is inserted in the bay.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the electrical contacts presented on the bay of the device 100 can be mounted on the body of the device 100 by means of springs, making it possible to ensure good electrical contact with the electrical flanges 228, and also making it possible to promote the ejection of the cartridge 200 out of the bay of the device 100.

[0081] The electrical flanges 228 are configured to allow the flow of an electric current between a pair of flanges, regardless of whether the first electrodes 210 are propelled or not. The flow of the electric current allows the formation of an electric arc between the electrical flanges 228, producing a deterrent effect on a target.

[0082] The cartridge 200 is configured to transmit an electrical signal from the device 100 to the projected electrodes 210, for example via the electrical contact between the bay contacts and the electrical flanges 228 as described above, as well as to receive a trigger signal from the propulsion element.

[0083] For this purpose, the cartridge 200 includes a transfer interface 229, which is configured to transfer an electrical control and / or power signal between the cartridge 200 and the body of the device 100. The body of the device 100 has a corresponding transfer interface (not shown), which is configured to cooperate with the transfer interface 229 when the cartridge 200 is inserted into the device 100.

[0084] In particular when the electric current to the electrodes, i.e. the power electrical signal, is transmitted via the electrical contact between the bay contacts and the electrical flanges 228, the transfer interface 229 can be configured only for the transfer of a control electrical signal, i.e. in particular a low power signal.

[0085] Figure [Fig. 5] illustrates an electrode 210 in a longitudinal sectional view.

[0086] The electrode body 211 is here substantially cylindrical in shape and hollow. The electrode body 211 comprises a first frontal opening 214, as well as a base 215 opposite the first opening 214, the base 215 being provided with a second opening 216.

[0087] The electrode 210 includes a plug 217, which closes the first opening 214. The plug 217 here has the dart 212, which protrudes outside the plug 217.

[0088] The electrode body 211 is for example made of plastic, and the cap 217 is for example made of aluminum.

[0089] The electrical wire 213 is wound inside the electrode body 211, preferably in several layers, and on one side is connected to the plug 217 and thus to the dart 212, and on the other side emerges from the electrode body 211 through the second opening 216, to be connected to the cartridge body 220, and in particular to the electrical flanges 228 when the cartridge 200 is equipped with them.

[0090] In the illustrated example, the dart 212 is equipped with barbs 218.

[0091] In addition, in the illustrated example the electrode body 211 includes, on its outer face at the level of its first opening 214, a collar 219 whose function is described later.

[0092] Preferably, the collar 219 extends over the entire circumference of the electrode body 211.

[0093] For example, the collar 219 may have a height, or radial thickness, of about 0.1 millimeter, that is to say that the electrode body 211 is enlarged by about 0.2 millimeters at the collar 219. In [Fig.5], the collar 219 is intentionally shown enlarged, for better readability.

[0094] Fig. 6 illustrates the cartridge 200 of figures 3 and 4 in a longitudinal sectional view along a vertical plane, with two electrodes 210 which are housed inside the cartridge body 220.

[0095] The cartridge body 220 contains two internal cavities 230, opening, on a so-called downstream side, each of the cartridge body 220 through the front wall 221.

[0096] In the illustrated example, the cartridge body 220 is delimited by the front wall 221, rear wall 222, and side walls 223, thus forming a hollow casing. The cartridge body 220 further comprises an internal block 231 attached to and inserted into the casing thus formed, and in which the internal cavities 230 are formed.

[0097] In particular, the internal block 231 may comprise two substantially symmetrical shells 239, for example a right shell and a left shell, assembled with each other, as is best seen in [Fig.7] which is similar to [Fig.3] but with the cartridge body 220, the covers 240, the adhesive label 241 and the left shell 239 which have been masked.

[0098] In the illustrated example, the right and left shells 239 are inserted into the sheath forming the cartridge body 220.

[0099] According to an alternative embodiment, the cartridge body 220 is monobloc and the internal cavities 230 can be directly formed in it.

[0100] The cartridge body 220 may further include sockets 232 each inserted and held in the internal cavities 230, and which are provided each to accommodate a so-called projected electrode 210.

[0101] The sockets 232 are specifically configured to reduce any risk of short-circuiting the so-called projected electrodes 210.

[0102] The cavities 230, and the sockets 232, are here substantially circular cylindrical.

[0103] As can be seen in Figures 6 and 7, the internal cavities 230 may not be parallel along a longitudinal extension direction of the cartridge 200, but may be arranged substantially angularly along the longitudinal direction, for example by forming an angle between 1° and 3°. Thus, the propulsion directions of the first electrodes 210 diverge, the so-called projected electrodes 210 being able to strike a target with a spacing between the electrodes which is adapted to neutralize the target.

[0104] As can be seen in Figures 6 and 7, the so-called projected electrodes 210 are housed in the sockets 232, in the internal cavities 230, and the electrical cable 213 of each first electrode 210, which emerges from the electrode body 211, is guided out of the cavity 230 towards the front of the cartridge 200, here between the block 231 and the cartridge body 220, is connected to the electrical flanges 228.

[0105] As can be seen more clearly in [Fig. 7], the cartridge 200 here comprises two pairs of electrical flanges 228, a pair of electrical flanges being formed by two facing electrical flanges 228 between which a current can flow. Each pair of electrical flanges 228 here comprises an upper electrical flange and a lower electrical flange, the upper electrical flanges and lower electrical flanges of each pair being connected together.

[0106] The electrical flanges 228 here comprise a first bridge 247 and a second bridge 248 connecting the upper and lower electrical flanges 228, respectively. The electrical cable 213 of a first of the electrodes 210, referred to as the projected electrode, is connected to the first bridge 247, while the electrical cable 213 of a second of the electrodes 210, referred to as the projected electrode, is connected to the second bridge 248.

[0107] The first bridge 247 and the second bridge 248 also allow the mechanical assembly of the hulls 239 to be maintained with each other.

[0108] The cartridge 200 also includes a pressure chamber 235, arranged upstream of the cavities 230, which communicates with the internal cavities 230.

[0109] The cartridge 200 may include an insert 242, which is for example inserted into the block 231, and the pressure chamber 235 may be formed in the insert 242. Alternatively, the pressure chamber 235 is formed directly in the block 231 or directly in the cartridge body 220.

[0110] In the illustrated example, the pressure chamber 235 includes two outlets 236 which each communicate with the bottom 234 of an internal cavity 230, and open onto it.

[0111] In the illustrated example, the pressure chamber 235 has a substantially V-shaped form, each end of the V-shaped branches forming conduits, having an outlet 236.

[0112] Moreover, the V-shaped branches forming conduits here have a substantially circular cross-section.

[0113] Preferably, as shown in [Fig.6], the V-shaped branches are substantially bent, and each has an end portion which opens substantially orthogonally into the cavities 230.

[0114] The propellant element here comprises a pyrotechnic charge 237 which is arranged substantially symmetrically, i.e. centrally, between the two branches of the V-shape. Here, the pyrotechnic charge 237 is arranged at the point of junction of the branches of the V-shape. In other words, the conduits of the pressure chamber 235 lead from the pyrotechnic charge into the internal cavities 230.

[0115] The pressure chamber 235 may also include a receptacle 233, located opposite the pyrotechnic charge 237, which is adapted to receive debris from the explosion of the pyrotechnic charge.

[0116] For example, the receptacle 233 takes the form of a concavity formed in the wall of the pressure chamber 235, between the two branches of the V shape.

[0117] The pyrotechnic charge 237 is further electrically connected to the transfer interface 229, so as to be able to receive an electrical triggering signal enabling the combustion of the pyrotechnic charge 237, generating a gas enabling the propulsion of the first electrodes 210.

[0118] The pyrotechnic charge 237 is here in the form of a substantially spherical capsule 243, comprising an outer coating, and a fuel, for example black powder, as well as an ignition element, inside the coating. The pyrotechnic charge 237 also includes contact tabs 244 connecting the capsule 243 to the transfer interface 229. The pyrotechnic charge 237 is specifically designed to be resistant to high temperatures and relatively insensitive to humidity and low current intensities (e.g., leakage current).

[0119] As described above, the electrical cable 213 emerges from each of the first electrodes 210 through the first opening 214 in the bottom 215, and is connected to the cartridge body 220. As can be seen in Figures 6 and 7, the electrical cable emerges axially from the electrode 210 before joining radially the cartridge body 220, forming substantially a right angle, and then running along the side walls 223 inside the cartridge until it joins one of the electrical flanges 228.

[0120] When the electrodes 210 are stored in the cartridge, the bottom 215 of the first electrodes 210 is located at the outlet 236 of the pressure chamber 235.

[0121] The electrical cable 213 is thus exposed to the pressurized gas diffusing from the pressure chamber 235 into the internal cavities 230.

[0122] In the illustrated example, the cartridge 200 includes, at the level of each internal cavity 230, a first protective finger 238, configured to protect the electrical cable 213 from damage that may be caused by the pressurized gas and whose temperature may be high.

[0123] The protective finger 238 protrudes here into the pressure chamber 235 at the outlet 236 of the pressure chamber 235.

[0124] The electrical cable 213 and the first protective finger 238 are configured to be arranged at least partially opposite each other, that is to say that the electrical cable 213 and the first protective finger 238 come at least partially overlapping each other, and so that the first protective finger 238 is interposed between the pyrotechnic charge 237 and the electrical cable 213.

[0125] The first protective finger 238 may have a longitudinal groove, substantially corresponding to the shape of the electrical cable 213 and configured to receive at least part of it. This provides further protection for the electrical cable from the heat and / or debris caused by the explosion of the pyrotechnic charge 237.

[0126] The first protective finger 238 can be formed in the insert 242, or in a separate insert, if necessary.

[0127] Similarly, the cartridge 200 may optionally include, at each internal cavity 230, a second protective finger (not shown), also configured to protect the electrical cable 213 from damage that may be caused by pressurized gas, in combination with the first protective finger 238.

[0128] The second protective finger protrudes into the cavity 230, at the outlet 236 of the pressure chamber 235, and the first protective finger 238 and the second protective finger are configured to sandwich the electrical cable 213.

[0129] The second protective fingers can for example be formed on the 232 sockets.

[0130] According to a second embodiment, not shown, the cartridge 200 is without electrical flanges 228, and the electrical cable 213 connects a so-called projected electrode 210 to the transfer interface 229 at the rear of the cartridge 200. The transfer interface 229 is then adapted to transfer a power current between the device 100 and the cartridge 200.

[0131] According to an alternative, the cartridge 200 includes electrical flanges 228, but these do not pass through the front wall 221 and are not exposed at the front of the cartridge 200, but only at the rear of it in order to establish an electrical contact with the contacts presented on the body of the device 100. The transfer of power current can then be carried out through the electrical contact of the electrical flanges 228 and the contacts of the device 100.

[0132] The cartridge according to the second embodiment can be used in particular in a device 100 having second electrodes 120 directly formed on the body of the device 100, such as that illustrated in [Fig.2].

[0133] The cartridge according to the second embodiment is, moreover, identical to that of the first embodiment described in connection with figures 3 to 7 in particular.

[0134] The operation of cartridge 200 will now be described.

[0135] The cartridge 200 is inserted into the bay of the device 100, and the transfer interface 229 is connected to the corresponding transfer interface of the device 100.

[0136] The electrical flanges 228 are in contact with the contacts (not shown) of the device bay 100.

[0137] When the trigger 102 is activated, the electrical triggering signal is transmitted by the device 100 to the cartridge 200, which has the effect of triggering the combustion of the pyrotechnic charge 237.

[0138] More specifically, the electric current flows through the contact tabs 244 to the capsule 243, in which the pyrotechnic charge is initiated by the heat produced by the Joule effect in the ignition element (which can, for example (be a portion of electrical wire). The fuel enclosed in capsule 243 begins to burn and ignites, until the explosion results in the generation of a pressurized gas in pressure chamber 235.

[0139] Under the effect of the combustion of the pyrotechnic charge 237, the pressure in the pressure chamber 235 increases according to a pressure rise slope of about 30 bars per millisecond, before reaching a nominal pressure, corresponding to a maximum pressure, of about 40 bars, at which the first electrodes 210 are propelled out of the cavities 230.

[0140] Thus, between the actuation of the trigger 102 and the propulsion of the so-called projected electrodes 210, a short time of about 4 milliseconds can elapse, including the latency time of transmission of the electrical trigger signal until the pyrotechnic charge 237, the melting of the ignition element and the combustion until the nominal pressure of about 40 bar is reached.

[0141] The electrodes are propelled at a speed of approximately 40 meters per second, allowing optimal efficiency of the device 100.

[0142] Fig. 8 schematically illustrates the pressure rise curve over time in the pressure chamber 235.

[0143] In order to obtain such a pressure rise, and in particular so that the so-called projected electrodes 210 are kept in place in the cartridge before the nominal pressure is reached, the cavities 230 are configured to receive the so-called projected electrodes 210 with a clamping fit, the fit being predetermined so as to keep the so-called projected electrodes 210 each in their cavity 230 during the combustion of the pyrotechnic charge 237, until the said nominal pressure is reached.

[0144] For example, the tightening adjustment can be achieved by the flange 219 of the so-called projected electrodes 210, which are inserted into the bushings 232 which are slightly narrower than the electrode bodies 211 at the level of the flange 219. The flanges 219 and the adjustment they allow also have the effect of ensuring the sealing of the pressure chamber 235 during the pressure rise.

[0145] According to an alternative, the sockets 232 may include internal collars, and the electrode bodies 211 may be without collars.

[0146] The adjustment is in particular chosen in such a way that the force generated by the pressurized gas on each of the first electrodes 210, when the nominal pressure is reached, is between 30 Newton (N) and 45 Newton (N).

[0147] In addition, the pyrotechnic charge 237 is selected so as to allow a sufficiently rapid rise in pressure during combustion, and so as to reach a sufficient nominal pressure while being low enough to avoid any degradation of the cartridge.

[0148] For example, the pyrotechnic charge 237 includes black powder, which has the advantage of being able to be initiated with a very small amount of energy.

[0149] When the force exerted on the projected electrodes 210 reaches the threshold necessary for propulsion, the projected electrodes 210 move in the sockets 232 towards the expulsion opening 224. The plug 217 of the electrodes first encounters the expulsion tabs 246 of the shields 240, without the dart 212 coming into contact with the dome 245. Under the force exerted by the projected electrodes 210, the shields 240 are expelled from the expulsion openings 224, then the projected electrodes 210 are also expelled from the expulsion openings 224 and projected towards a target, with substantially divergent trajectories due to the angle formed between the internal cavities 230.

[0150] When the projected electrodes 210 touch the target, preferably with a predefined minimum gap between them, the incapacitating electrical signal is delivered to the target from the device 100, the incapacitating electrical signal being transmitted from the device 100 to the cartridge 200 via the contact between the bay contacts and the electrical flanges 228, or alternatively via the transfer interface 229.

[0151] After or before firing, the device 100 can be actuated to generate an electric arc between the so-called shock electrodes 120.

[0152] In addition, the cartridge 200 may be equipped with non-volatile storage memory, in which manufacturing and expiry data are stored. Furthermore, usage data for the cartridge 200 may be stored there, indicating, for example, when the cartridge 200 was used.

[0153] According to an embodiment not illustrated, the electrical pulse incapacitating device can be a shield, for example of the riot control type or of the ballistic type.

[0154] 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.

[0155] The shield may be equipped with one or more bays on its external face, each of the bays being able to receive a 200 cartridge as described above.

[0156] The shield may, for example, include a handle on its inner face, and include a trigger on the handle.

[0157] Preferably, the shield may include electrical contacts configured to cooperate with the electrical flanges 228, and thus includes so-called shock electrodes, whether or not the cartridge 200 is inserted in the bay.

[0158] The shield's operation is also similar to that of the electric pulse incapacitating gun described above, and allows for neutralization of an individual at a distance via the projected electrodes 210 and preferentially also in contact via the contact electrodes 120.

[0159] According to yet another embodiment not illustrated, the electrical pulse incapacitating device can be a mobile vector, for example an aerial, terrestrial or marine drone.

[0160] In particular, the device can be triggered remotely, the drone having remote communication means for this purpose.

[0161] The mobile vector can also be a vehicle, such as a riot control vehicle.

[0162] It is more generally recalled that the invention is not limited to the examples described and illustrated.

Claims

Demands

1. Cartridge (200) for an electrical pulse incapacitating device (100), comprising a cartridge body (220) containing at least two internal cavities (230) opening downstream of said cartridge body, and a pressure chamber (235) arranged upstream of said cavities and communicating with them, the cartridge further comprising a propellant element capable of generating pressure in the pressure chamber (235), and at least two electrodes (210) each received in one of said at least two cavities (230) and configured to be propelled out of the cavities (230) under the effect of said pressure, the cartridge being characterized in that the propellant element comprises a pyrotechnic charge (237) configured to generate said pressure in the pressure chamber (235) directly by its own combustion.

2. Cartridge (200) according to claim 1, wherein the pyrotechnic charge (237) is configured to generate a nominal pressure of about 40 bar in the pressure chamber, so as to generate a propulsion force on the electrodes of between about 30 N and about 45 N.

3. Cartridge (200) according to claim 2, wherein the pyrotechnic charge (237) is configured to generate a pressure rise in the pressure chamber (235) of approximately 30 bars per millisecond, until the nominal pressure is reached.

4. Cartridge (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the pyrotechnic charge (237) comprises black powder.

5. Cartridge (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the pyrotechnic charge (237) is in the form of a capsule (243) comprising a coating containing a fuel and an ignition element.

6. Cartridge (200) according to claim 2 or according to any one of claims 3 to 5 taken in combination with claim 2, wherein said at least two cavities (230) are configured to receive the electrodes (210) with a clamping fit, the fit being predetermined so as to maintain the electrodes (210) in position each in their cavity (230) during the combustion of the pyrotechnic charge until the said nominal pressure is reached.

7. Cartridge (200) according to claim 6, in which the electrodes (210) each comprise a peripheral collar (219), substantially enlarging the electrodes, so as to allow a clamping adjustment of the electrodes (210) in the cavities (230).

8. Cartridge (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising two cavities (230) each receiving an electrode (210), the pressure chamber (235) comprising two conduits each communicating with one of the cavities (230) and the pyrotechnic charge (237) being disposed substantially centrally between the two conduits.

9. Cartridge (200) according to claim 8, wherein the pressure chamber (235) is substantially V-shaped, each of the branches of the V-shape forming a conduit.

10. Cartridge (200) according to claim 9, wherein the V-shaped arms are substantially bent, and wherein the pressure chamber (235) includes a concavity between the V-shaped arms, oriented towards the pyrotechnic charge (237), forming a receptacle (233) capable of receiving debris from the combustion of the pyrotechnic charge (237).

11. Cartridge (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the electrodes (210) received in the cavities (230) comprise an electrode body (211) and an electrical conductor (213) connecting the electrode body to the cartridge body (220), the cartridge body comprising at least two protective fingers (238), each protective finger projecting into the pressure chamber (235) at an outlet (236) of the pressure chamber, opening onto the cavities (230), the electrical conductor (213) of an electrode and the protective finger (238) being configured to be at least partially opposite each other, the protective finger (238) being interposed between the pyrotechnic charge (237) and the electrical conductor (213).

12. Cartridge (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising an interface (229) for transferring an electrical signal from the device (100), the cartridge (200) being configured to receive an electrical signal to trigger the load pyrotechnic (237) via said transfer interface.

13. Cartridge (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising at least two electrical flanges (228) each electrically connected to one of said electrodes (210), the electrical flanges (228) being presented outside said cartridge at a distance from each other, so as to allow the generation of an electric arc by the flow of an electric current between the electrical flanges (228).

14. An electrical pulse incapacitating device (100) comprising a cartridge (200) according to any one of claims 1 to

15. 13. Device (100) according to claim 14, the electrical pulse incapacitating device being an electrical pulse gun.

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