Multi purpose tactical tool

Abstract

A multi-purpose tactical tool comprising an impact arrangement including two or more distinct impact measures having corresponding two or more impact levels, and an indication arrangement including at least two or more distinct indication modes; Each of the two or more distinct indication modes is uniquely associated with one of the two or more distinct impact measure; The indication modes are configured for being sensed at least by a person other than a current user of the multi-purpose tactical tool, located at least at a position at which the multi-purpose tactical tool is directed.

Description

[0001] MULTI PURPOSE TACTICAL TOOL

[0002] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention is in the field of tactical tools, in particular, tactical tools used for people and crowd control.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Tactical tools are used by law enforcement personnel in handling crowds and various perpetrators, in various scenarios and under changing circumstances. Some cases require the mere maneuvering or directing people in a certain direction, others require more assertive measure of control for containing or keeping people in line, and some even require the use of force, sometimes deadly.

[0006] There is a variety of tactical tools on the market, each specifically designed for a given purpose, with varying grades of severity / lethality, e.g. flashlight, pepper spray, rubber bullets etc., and these are chosen and carried by law enforcement personnel according to the anticipated situation.

[0007] Acknowledgement of the above references herein is not to be inferred as meaning that these are in any way relevant to the patentability of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0008] GENERAL DESCRIPTION

[0009] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, there is provided a multi-purpose tactical tool (MPTT) comprising an impact arrangement including two or more distinct impact measures, and an indication arrangement including at least two or more distinct indication modes, wherein each of the two or more distinct indication modes is uniquely associated with one of the two or more distinct impact measure, and wherein the indication arrangement is configured for being sensed at least by a person other than a user of the multi-purpose tactical tool, said indication arrangement. The term ‘current user’ should be understood and interpreted in connection with the present application as a user wielding the MPTT (either holding it or manipulating it), wherein the MPTT is aimed or directed towards a subject other than the ‘current user’.

[0010] The two or more distinct impact measures may have two distinct impact levels, allowing the user of the MPTT to choose the impact measure according to the severity or threat level of the situation in which they are in. For example, if the MPTT is used by law enforcement personnel during a quiet demonstration, they may select an impact measure with a lower impact level (e.g. non-lethal), while when faced with a violent enemy, they may choose an impact measure with a higher level of impact (e.g. capable of causing severe wounds or even being deadly).

[0011] Examples of such impact measures can range anywhere from mild measures such as a blinding light, noise or water spray, to more meaningful measures such as tear gas, pepper spray and blunt force (using the MPTT itself), and even reach deadlier measures such as electric shock, rubber bullets and live ammunition.

[0012] The MPTT may comprise a selector associated with the impact arrangement, and configured for allowing a user to select which of the two or more impact measures to use. The selector may include measures ensuring the safety of the use of the MPTT, clearly indicating to the user the chosen impact measure, thereby preventing accidental use of an undesired measure. Specifically, the indication arrangement may be associated with said impact arrangement and configured to switch between the two or more indication modes based on a selection of the impact measure.

[0013] In accordance with one design configuration, the indication arrangement may comprise visual indication elements located at at least two distinct regions of the tactical tool (e.g. top, bottom, front, rear & sides). For example, said visual indication elements may cover, overall, between 5%-50% of the surface of the tactical tool, more particularly between 10%-40% of the surface of the tactical tool, and even more particularly between 15%-35% of the surface of the tactical tool.

[0014] It should be noted that the indication may be visible by three different sides to a confrontation or given situation: the user of the MPTT (i.e. ‘current user’), any person present next to the user (either an ally or a bystander), and a person threatened by the MPTT (e.g. standing in front of it or person towards which the MPTT is aimed or directed). According to one example, said visual indication elements may be configured for providing a visual indication in at least two different colors on the visible spectrum based on the indication mode. As an example, the impact measure with the higher impact level may be associated with a color closer to the red end of the visible spectrum, giving a clear indication that the user of the weapon is now more dangerous. This color scheme may fit the standard psychological paradigm under which red and yellow signal more danger than blue and green.

[0015] Each of the two or more indication modes may be associated with any one or a combination of a) a color of active visual indication elements (as previously discussed); b) a brightness level of active visual indication elements (e.g. the higher the threat level, the stronger the light); c) active visual indication elements in a specific region of the tactical tool (e.g. the higher the threat level, a region of the MPTT closer to the threatened person lights up); d) the overall number of active visual indication elements (e.g. the higher the threat level, the more elements light up); e) illumination pattern of active visual indication elements (e.g. for a higher threat level, the pattern may be more erratic); and f) a flashing pattern of active visual indication elements (e.g. the higher the threat level, the more frequent the flashing).

[0016] The visual indication elements above may be any light source (e.g. LED), any reflector components (e.g. pattern of reflectors), or any plurality of movable components which can assume a different position based on the chosen impact measure, to thereby signal that a different impact measure has been chosen. The user of the MPTT may control at least some of the parameters of the visual indication elements within a given indication mode in accordance with their preferred scheme.

[0017] In accordance with one design embodiment, the indication arrangement may also be configured, in addition to indications related to the different impact measures, for also providing an independent alert or signal display. For example, the indication arrangement may be used for providing a police signal display similar to police lightbars or a policeman light baton. In addition to the indication means, the MPTT may also include a screen for providing indication to the user, similar to common screens for providing the user with data regarding the MPTT and its use.

[0018] The indication arrangement is not limited to visual elements and may include at least one acoustic component configured to provide an audial indication.

[0019] The MPTT may be configured for being hand-held, to be carried and used by a person (e.g. like a personal tool). Alternatively, it may be configured for mounting onto an installation or a transport vehicle (car, tank, ship, aircraft, UAV, etc.). In the latter case, the installation or transport vehicle may comprise an additional indication arrangement associated with the indication arrangement of the MPTT and configured for operating insync with it. For example, if the MPTT is installed on a wall of a military installation, the wall may include additional indication means (audio or visual) which will signal to assailants (and to the users themselves) that the threat level has gone up / down according to the selection of the impact measure.

[0020] The MPTT may comprise at least one cartridge containing therein at least one of the impact measures. Specifically, this cartridge may comprise two or more impact measures and be replaceable / detachable with respect to the MPTT. For example, the user may decide, based on the mission they’re facing, that the appropriate cartridge should be a shock and rubber bullet cartridge, because the mission is more dangerous. Alternatively, for a safer mission, they may choose a pepper spray and tear gas cartridge. In accordance to one design embodiment, the MPTT may comprise at least one impact measure which is a part of the MPTT (integrated therewith), while one or more of the other impact measures are contained within the cartridge.

[0021] The MPTT may comprise a controller module associated with both said impact arrangement and with said indication arrangement, the controller module being configured for uniquely associating each of the two or more indication modes with one of the two impact measures, respectively. The arrangement may be such that when a cartridge is attached to the MPTT, the cartridge and MPTT can communicate in order to allow the MPTT to identify the impact measure(s) in the cartridge and their respective impact level.

[0022] In accordance with one variation, the MPTT controller may comprise or be associated with a recognition module configured for at least the following: i. receiving data (e.g. visual, audial, thermal etc.) ii. based on said data, identifying an object at which the MPTT is aimed; and iii. based on the identification and analysis of said data, prioritize a measure of the MPTT to be used.

[0023] The object may be a human being, an animal, or a body part thereof (e.g. limbs, abdomen, head etc.), and the recognition module may incorporate Al tools trained to identify and analyze various types of threats and threat parameters (posture, gate, weapons etc.). Specifically, the Al tools may be configured for identifying and classifying any one or a combination of the following: facial recognition - matching an identified individual with a bank of faces (e.g. wanted criminals, terrorists etc.); age - setting certain limits in order to prevent the use of harmful measures against children; gender - preventing the use of harmful measures against women; physical dimensions - taking into account the size of the threat; facial expressions - identifying the targets demeanor and intentions based on the their facial expression (determining aggression, malintent etc.);

[0024] - weapon carriage - identifying if the target is carrying an item which may be a weapon or may be used as a weapon; gestures - identifying gestures and posture, and deciding if they may indicate that a certain target poses a threat; animal / Human - distinguishing between animals and humans; image / Reality - distinguishing between human images (e.g. posters, billboards, images on screens), humanoid robots, and actual human beings; and friendlies / Hostiles - distinction between allies (e.g. fellow combatants wearing a distinguishing mark on their uniform), and enemy combatants.

[0025] The recognition module may be configured for using any of the above-mentioned parameters in order to contribute to the calculation of the threat at which the MPTT is aimed, and subsequently, based on this scoring, to adjust / select the appropriate attack measures in order to ensure the appropriate lethality level for the situation.

[0026] More particularly, the arrangement may be such that, at least in a fully autonomous or semi-autonomous modes, where the decision on the use of an attack measure is at least partially dictated by the threat scoring, the MPTT will be prevented from activation / attack against certain targets, or from activating a certain attack measure against a certain target.

[0027] The recognition module may be especially effective when dealing with large crowds, allowing to minimize, or even completely eliminate, collateral damage and unintentional harm of civilians or bystanders.

[0028] The above arrangement of the recognition module thus functions as a decisionmaking tool, and facilitates operation of the MPTT, as a whole, in various operation modes ranging from fully autonomous to fully manual control modes.

[0029] The MPTT in conjunction with the recognition module may be designed to prioritize minimizing lethal injury to a target of the MPTT (unless otherwise instructed). More particularly, the arrangement may be such that the controller is configured for prioritizing between different measures of the MPTT in order to achieve the minimal lethality level required in order to achieve a desired effect (stopping an assailant, dispersing crowds etc.).

[0030] In accordance with one configuration, the recognition module may be configured to assign an injury severity scoring for certain body parts. For example, the head may be assigned a higher injury severity score than a limb, since the severity of the injury from impact to the head is greater than that to a limb. This injury severity scoring may be associated with the impact level of each of the two or more impact measures of the MPTT, allowing the control module to enable and / or disable certain impact measures based on the injury severity scoring of the recognition module.

[0031] For example, in a given scenario, the recognition module may be able to identifies that the MPTT is aimed at the head of a person, and therefore disable the live ammo or rubber bullet measure of the MPTT and only allow the user of the MPTT to use a shocker or pepper spray. Alternatively, if the recognition module identifies that the MPTT is aimed at a limb of a person, the rubber bullet impact measure may be enabled.

[0032] The object may also be an item carried by a target, e.g. a firearm or a nonthreatening item (e.g. an umbrella, walking cane etc.), whereby the recognition module may also be configured to take into account a threat level of the target and apply it to assign the injury severity scoring.

[0033] For example, if the recognition module identifies that the MPTT is aimed at a limb of a person holding an umbrella, it may still disable the live ammo impact measure. However, if the recognition module identifies that the object in the person’s limb is a hand gun, it may assess the situation as one with a higher threat level, therefore enabling live ammo or rubber bullets.

[0034] In addition, the controller, along with the recognition module may be preprogrammed in a way configured for minimizing undesired injury to certain types of targets. For example, the controller may be pre-programmed to prevent activation of the MPTT if the recognized target at which the MPTT is aimed is a child, a woman, an elderly person etc. However, it should be noted, as in the previously presented example, that certain overrides of these mechanism may be provided, either manually by the user (based on their threat assessment in the field), or based on a recognized threat level from the target (e.g. if the target is carrying a weapon).

[0035] The recognition module may be integral with the MPTT and associated with visual means (e.g. a camera) of the MPTT, and with its controller, it may be an external module configured for being fitted to the MPTT, or it may be completely physically separate from the MPTT controller, but be in communication therewith.

[0036] The recognition module may be configured for receiving data from an acquisition arrangement configured for acquiring visual, audial, thermal, or any other type of data in the area at which the MPTT is used. One example of such an acquisition arrangement may be the MPTT’s own camera. Alternatively, the acquisition arrangement may be constituted by a surveillance system (street cameras, drones etc.) observing the area surrounding the user of the MPTT.

[0037] The MPTT may also include a memory unit configured for recording parameters associated with the tactical tool. Specifically, the memory unit may include any one or a a combination of the following: attack measure parameters - recording the exact attack measures used during the use of the MPTT; decision making - recording the actions performed on the MPTT by the user, and all or part of the recognition module log; scene recording - providing an entire video and audio log from the view point of the MPTT, including time, geolocation, target acquisition & recognition, activation of the MPTT (indicating against whom it was used, and how), etc.; and personalization - monitoring specific preferences used by a specific user, allowing, inter alia, to personalize the preference of the MPTT according to the user.

[0038] The recorded data may be used for future analyses of certain situations and adjusting the operation of the MPTT accordingly. Specifically, the recording of the decision-making log from the recognition module may be cross-referenced with the other data recorded from the scene (audio, video, geolocation etc.), in order to verify the decision making of the MPTT post-factum. In addition, the data recorded by the memory unit may also be used in legal proceeding, insurance cases, investigations, surveillance etc.

[0039] The MPTT may also comprise communication means configured for communication with any one or a combination of the following: other tactical tools, a user of the tactical tool, users of other tactical tools, people facing the tactical tool, and a remote location. As part of this arrangement, the indication arrangement may be synchronized with the indication arrangement of neighboring multi-purpose tactical tools. This may even be done remotely.

[0040] The MPTT may be used as a blunt force tactical tool (e.g. a baton), and may comprise a reinforced or composite structure. In accordance with one example, the reinforced structure may comprise a reinforced tubular body.

[0041] In accordance with another aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a cartridge for being implemented in the MPTT and comprises at least one impact measure configured to being activated by a mechanism of the multi-purpose tool.

[0042] The cartridge may comprise an attachment mechanism configured for allowing said cartridge to be detachable attachable to said multi-purpose tool. Furthermore, the cartridge may comprise at least one interface configured for engaging with a respective interface of said multi-purpose tool in order to indicate to the user of the tool that said cartridge is properly attached.

[0043] The cartridge may comprise at least a first impact measure and a second impact measure, and wherein, when the interface of said cartridge is properly engaged with the interface of said tool, said engagement allows the user to select which impact measure to use. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0045] Figs. 1A and IB are schematic isometric and side views of a person holding an MPTT according to the present application;

[0046] Fig. 2A is a schematic cross section view of the MPTT shown in Fig. 1;

[0047] Fig. 2B is a schematic enlarged view of detail A shown in Fig. 2A;

[0048] Figs. 3A and 3B are schematic views of variations of a selector of the MPTT shown in Figs. 1 to 2B;

[0049] Figs. 4A to 4D are examples of different visual indication patterns associated with different impact measures of the MPTT shown in Figs. 1 to 3;

[0050] Fig. 5A is a schematic isometric section view of a cartridge used in the MPTT shown in Fig. 1 to 4D;

[0051] Fig. 5B is a schematic enlarged view of a detail B shown in Fig. 5A;

[0052] Figs. 6A and 6B are schematic representations of a target of the MPTT shown in Figs. 1 A to 5B, as identified by a recognition module; and

[0053] Fig- 7 is a schematic block diagram of the operation of the recognition module.

[0054] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn accurately or to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity, or several physical components may be included in one functional block or element. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

[0055] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0056] Attention is first drawn to Figs. 1A and IB, in which a Multi-Purpose Tactical Tool (MPTT) generally designated 1 is shown held by a user P. The MPTT 1 has a main body 10 and, in the given example, an attack arrangement 100, including various attack measures 110, 120, 130 (shown in Fig. 2A and onward), and three illumination regions: a top illumination region 20, a bottom illumination region 30 and a front illumination region 40. It should be noted that the top and bottom illumination regions 20, 30, also extend to cover at least a portion of the sides of the main body 10.

[0057] It should be noted that the location of the illumination regions 20, 30 and 40, as shown in the exemplary figures is not limiting, and the application covers various other possible configurations, for example, a left illumination region, a right illumination region, or any combination thereof with each other or with illumination regions 20, 30 and 40.

[0058] In Figs. 1 A and IB, the user P is shown holding the MPTT 1 in a manner similar to holding a baton or a rifle, wherein the front illumination region 40 would be clearly visible to any person standing in front of the user P (e.g. a target to which the MPTT 1 is pointed at or any bystander), at least a portion of the top and bottom illumination regions 20, 30, is clearly visible to anyone standing beside the user P, and at least a portion of the top illumination region 20 is visible to the user P themselves.

[0059] Additional attention is now drawn to Figs. 2A and 2B, in which a longitudinal cross-section of the MPTT 1 is shown, as well as an enlarged view of detail A of the cross-section.

[0060] The main body 10 of the MPTT 1 includes a main shaft 12, a functional midsection 14 and a stock 16. The main shaft 12 is configured for passage of any emitted elements from the MPTT (e.g. gas, pepper spray, shocker modules, ammunition etc.), the functional mid-section 14 includes functional components allowing the user P to operate the MPTT 1, and, in the given example, the stock 16 includes a battery B supplying power to the components of the mid-section 14.

[0061] The functional mid-section 14 houses a control arrangement 50 comprising a processing unit 52, electrical wires 54 both for providing the processing unit 52 with power (via attachment to the battery B) and for the attack arrangement 100 of the MPTT 1, a measure selector 55, a trigger 58 with a safety 59, and an LCD user screen 56 for displaying the type of measure selected and additional useful information (e.g. range, use data, trigger on / off condition etc.).

[0062] The processing unit 52 is configured, on the one hand, for transmitting commands by the user (e.g. firing, selecting a measure etc.) to the corresponding measures of the MPTT 1, and, on the other hand, for providing any required data either to the LCD display 56 or to a memory component (not shown) of the processing unit 52, allowing to store various types of data pertaining to the usage of the MPTT 1. The measure selector 55 allows the user P to determine which attack measure of the attack arrangement 100 to utilize at any given moment. This decision can be based on circumstance such as the expected level of altercation, the current threat to the user etc. The selector 55 is associated with the processing unit 52 such that once the user P selects an attack measure, a corresponding image is displayed on the LCD screen 56.

[0063] The functional mid-section 14 further comprises a set of auxiliary MPTT accessories 60, among which are an HD camera 62, a laser sight or pointer 64, and a microphone 66. These accessories 60 are also connected to the processing unit 52 to be controlled thereby via wires 54, and for receiving power from the battery B. As such, these can also be located at the front of the MPTT 1, and the location is not constrained to the mid-section 14. It should be noted that the location of the illumination regions 20, 30 and 40 can be so chosen in conjunction with at least the camera 62 and laser sight 64, so as not to interfere with each other (for example, so that illumination from the illumination regions 20, 30 and 40 doesn’t blind the camera 62 or impedes the efficiency of the laser sight 64).

[0064] The LCD screen 56 can also provide information on the use of these accessories 60. In accordance with a particular design embodiment, the LCD screen 56 can also receive data at least from the camera 62, thereby serving as a digital sight / scope for the user of the MPTT 1.

[0065] The attack arrangement 100 as shown in the exemplary drawings comprises of an ammunition firing mechanism 110, complete with an electronic shooting action mechanism 112 (shown here to be spring operated), a shooting spring 114 and a hammer slide 116. The firing mechanism 110 further comprises a lethal ammunition cartridge 115 and a non-1 ethal ammunition cartridge 117.

[0066] The attack arrangement 100 further comprises an electric shock module 120 including an electric shocker PCB 122 and electric shocker contacts 124, and a pepper spray module 130 including a compressed gas cylinder 132, an electronic spray nozzle 134 and a spray nozzle 136.

[0067] Each of the attack measures, the firing mechanism 110, the electric shock module 120 and the pepper spray module 130 have a different level of lethality, referred herein as Lth(n), where n denotes the severity. Specifically, the higher the w, the higher the lethality of the attack measure. In the given example, the pepper spray module 130 would be assigned a lethality level Lth(l) (lowest), the electric shock module 120 would be assigned a lethality level Lth(2), the non-lethal ammunition in the cartridge 117 would be assigned a lethality level Lth(3) and the lethal ammunition in cartridge 115 would be assigned a lethality level Lth(4) (highest).

[0068] Turning now to Figs. 3 A and 3B, two variations of the selector of the MPTT 1 are shown. In Fig. 3A, the selector 55’ is shown in the form of a circular ring extending around a shaft of the MPTT 1, wherein rotation of the selector 55’ about a longitudinal axis allows selecting the desired attach measure. This attack measure is then subsequently displayed on the LCD screen 56’. A different variation is shown in Fig. 3B, in which the selector 55” is in the form of a pair of buttons (+ / -) located below the LCD screen 56”. One advantage of this configuration, owing to the proximity between the selector 55” and the LCD screen 56”, is that the selection of the attack measure is immediately visibly via the display on the screen 56”, without the user needing to shift their gaze from the selector to the screen.

[0069] With reference to Figs. 4A to 4D, the processing unit 50 is also associated with each of the illumination regions 20, 30 and 40, and is configured for assigning each of the selections of the user P, and each of the states of the MPTT once an attack measure is selected, a certain unique form of illumination for each of the regions 20, 30 and 40. In the examples shown in Figs. 4A to 4D, the following patterns are demonstrated:

[0070] Fig. 4A - the top illumination surface 20 has running segments 22A of light, progressing in the direction of the arrows towards the distal end of the MPTT 1, The bottom illumination region 30 is fully lit 32A, and the front illumination region 40 is also lit in red color 42A;

[0071] Fig. 4B - only the front portion of the top illumination region is lit 22B, the bottom illumination region 30 is not lit at all, and the front illumination region 40 is lit in a green color 42B;

[0072] Fig. 4C - the top, bottom and front illumination regions 20, 30, 40, are each lit in a checkered patterns 22C, 32C, 42C; and

[0073] Fig. 4D - the top illumination region 20 is unlit, the bottom illumination region 30 is fully lit in blue color 32D, and the front illumination region 40 is also fully lit in blue color 42D.

[0074] Each of these illumination patterns can be used to indicate a different threat level Lth(n), which can be clearly visible by a person towards which the MPTT 1 is pointed / aimed, by any bystanders or fellow combatants, and by the user P themselves. For example, the use of red illumination may correspond to a higher threat level Lth(n), while a blue or green illumination may correspond to a lower threat level Lth(n). Similarly, a more dynamic illumination pattern (like shown in Fig. 4A) may be associated with a higher threat level.

[0075] It is appreciated that various setting of the illumination patterns and regions can be used, including, but not limited to:

[0076] • a color of active visual indication elements;

[0077] • a brightness level of active visual indication elements;

[0078] • active visual indication elements in a specific region of the tactical tool;

[0079] • the overall number of active visual indication elements;

[0080] • illumination pattern of active visual indication elements; and

[0081] • a flashing pattern of active visual indication elements.

[0082] It is appreciated that the psychological effect of this illumination being visible by any people adjacent the user has several potential benefits, including at least the following:

[0083] The person or target at which the MPTT 1 is pointed at (i.e. the person facing the user P) immediately gets a sense of how serious the user P of the MPTT 1 is, and how intent they are on using and applying a certain attack measure. One example may be during a demonstration where the police or security detail initially set their MPTTs 1 to a lower lethality setting owing to the calm nature of the demonstration, where their blue or green illumination signals to the protesters that the situation is calm. If the demonstration becomes more hectic and police fears it might get out of hand, the users P may switch to a more lethal attack measure, whereby their MPTTs, flashing in bright red, automatically alert the public that they are more intent on using lethal force to restrain the crowd;

[0084] Any person in the vicinity of the user P also gets an indication of the threat level and, inter alia, of the seriousness of the situation, which may prompt them to step away or leave the area (in case of bystanders), or become coordinated with the user (in case of fellow combatants / police etc.). In the above example, when such a bystander observes the MPTTs of the police switching from calm green to flashing red, they will be prompted to leave the scene, while any fellow police would automatically become more alert; and The user themselves get a clear indication of the selected attack measure, contributing to safety and preventing any undesired misfiring of the wrong attack measure.

[0085] It is also appreciated that the processing unit 52 can also have a designated illumination pattern which provides indication to the user regarding any malfunction of the MPTT 1, the condition of the safety (on / off) etc. Specifically, with additional reference to Figs. 3 A-3B, the LCD screen 56 operates in complete synchronicity with the illumination regions 20, 30, 40, to provide the user P a clear indication of the selected attack measure (in this example pepper spray module 130).

[0086] Turning now to Figs. 5A and 5B, the MPTT 1 is shown including a cartridge 200 which comprises at least some of the functional components required for operating the various attack measures, as well as the front illumination region 40. In this specific example, the cartridge 200 includes the electric shocker contacts 124 of the electric shocker module 120, and the spray valve 134 and the spray nozzle 136 of the pepper spray module 130.

[0087] The cartridge 200 comprises a connector 202 which is configured for being received within a corresponding cavity 15 formed in the distal end 13 of the main body 10, to secure the cartridge 200 in place. In addition, the cartridge 200 comprises a cartridge controller unit (CCU) 210, which, once the cartridge 200 is properly attached to the main body 10, interfaces with contacts 17 leading to the processing unit 52. This interface allows for two things:

[0088] Identification of the cartridge 200, its attack measures and proper insertion into the main body 10 by the processing unit 52; and

[0089] Control of the cartridge 200 via the processing unit 52.

[0090] In the given example, once the cartridge 200 is inserted into the MPTT 1, the processing unit 52 identifies that the inserted cartridge include shocker module 120, and a pepper spray module 130, and can adjust the required LCD display and illumination regions and patterns accordingly.

[0091] This configuration of an external cartridge with at least one attack measure allows for modularity and versatility, whereby a user P may have their own MPTT 1, but, before going into the field, may choose different cartridges based on the expected threat / danger level of the situation in the field. Attention is now drawn to Figs. 6A and 6B, in which two representations of a target of the MPTT are shown. In Fig. 6A, the target is a person 300 holding an umbrella U, while in Fig. 6B, the person 300’ is holding a firearm F (handgun).

[0092] With reference to Fig. 6A, the recognition module 150 identifies the target 300, and parses it by body parts - the arms 310, the legs 320, the abdomen 330, the chest 340 and the head 350. The recognition module further parses the target by identifying the upper arms 312 and forearms 314, and the thighs 322 and shins 324.

[0093] The control module 50 identifies that the MPTT is aimed at the abdomen 330 of the person 300, which is assigned with a high injury severity scoring (e.g. 4 / 5). In addition, the recognition module further identifies the object carried by the target 300 as an umbrella U, which is a non-threatening object, and therefore assigns a low threat level scoring (e.g. 1 / 5) to the target 300.

[0094] This data is communicated to the control module 50, whereby, based on the low threat level and the high injury severity scoring, the control module 50 disables the live ammo and rubber ammo impact measures of the MPTT, in order to minimize the injury to the target 300.

[0095] Alternatively, with reference to Fig. 6B, the control module 50 identifies that the MPTT is aimed at the chest 340 of the person 300’, which is assigned with a high injury severity scoring (e.g. 5 / 5). Following the previous example, this should lead to the control module 50 disabling any lethal impact measures of the MPTT (e.g. live ammo). However, since the recognition module further identifies the object carried by the target 300’ as a firearm F, it assigns a high threat level scoring (e.g. 1 / 5) to the target 300.

[0096] This data is communicated to the control module 50, whereby, based on the high threat level and the high injury severity scoring, the control module 50 does enable lethal impact measures of the MPTT such as the live ammo and rubber ammo, prioritizing them over the less lethal impact measures (e.g. pepper spray) in order to neutralize the threat as quickly as possible.

[0097] It should be appreciated that various combinations of threat level scoring and injury severity scoring may occur during the use of the MPTT, for each of which the control module 50 is configured for determining which impact measures to enable / disable.This system provides, on the one hand, making sure that lethal impact measures are not applied to non-threatening targets, and, on the other hand, still allow a user of the MPTT to apply lethal measures against targets who are considered an immediate threat.

[0098] Additional parameters which may be taking into account when assigning the threat level and injury severity scoring are the denomination of the person (age, gender etc.), level of protection (e.g. is the person wearing an armor vest), innocent bystanders and proximity to the target etc.

[0099] Turning now to Fig. 7, a block diagram of the operation of the recognition module 150 and control module 50 is shown. The recognition module 150 first identifies the target 300 at which the MPTT is aimed 410, and parses it to body parts and threats as previously shown in Figs. 6A and 6B. The recognition module 150 then communicates with the control module 50 to identify at which area of the target the MPTT is aimed at 412. Based on 410 and 412, the recognition module 150 assigns an injury severity level 416.

[0100] Additionally, based on the identification of the target, the recognition module 150 also assigns a threat level 414 to the target.

[0101] The threat level 414 and injury severity level 416 are provided to the control module 50 which determines, at 418, based on these two parameters, which impact measure / s of the MPTT are appropriate for handling the situation, while minimizing unnecessary injury to the target.

[0102] This control module 50 then sends a signal to the MPTT, enabling and / or disabling the appropriate impact measures at 420, and also issues an alert at 422 to the user of the MPTT to inform them of the enabled / disabled impact measures.

[0103] Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains will readily appreciate that numerous changes, variations, and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention, mutatis mutandis.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A multi-purpose tactical tool comprising an impact arrangement including two or more distinct impact measures having corresponding two or more distinct impact measures, and an indication arrangement including two or more distinct indication modes, wherein each of the two or more distinct indication modes is uniquely associated with one of the two or more distinct impact measures, and wherein said indication modes are configured for being sensed at least by a person other than a current user of the multipurpose tactical tool, located at least at a position at which the multi-purpose tactical tool is directed.

2. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 1, wherein said two or more impact measures are chosen from a group including at least: an electric shocker, pepper spray, flashlight, projectiles, and blunt force instrument or component.

3. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein said tactical tool comprises a selector associated with the impact arrangement, and configured for allowing a user to select which of the two or more impact measures to use.

4. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein said indication arrangement is associated with said impact arrangement and is configured to switch between the two or more indication modes based on a selection of the impact measure.

5. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, wherein said indication arrangement comprises visual indication elements.

6. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 5, wherein said visual indication elements are located at at least two distinct regions of the tactical tool.

7. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 5 or 6, wherein said visual indication elements cover between 5%-50% of the surface of the tactical tool, more particularly between 10%-40% of the surface of the tactical tool, and even more particularly between 15%-35% of the surface of the tactical tool.

8. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 5, 6 or 7, wherein said visual indication elements are configured for providing a visual indication in at least two different colors on the visible spectrum based on the indication mode, and wherein an impact measure with a higher impact level is associated with a color closer to the red end of the visible spectrum.

9. A multi-purpose tool according to any one of Claims 5 to 8, wherein at least a part of said visual indication is clearly visible to any one or combination of the following: (a)a user of the tool; (b) a person laterally adjacent to said user; and (c) a person at whom the tool is directed.

10. A multi-purpose tool according to any one of Claims 5 to 9, wherein each of the two or more indication modes is associated with any one or a combination of: a) a color light indication of active visual indication elements; b) a brightness level of active visual indication elements; c) active visual indication elements in a specific region of the tactical tool; d) the overall number of active visual indication elements; e) illumination pattern of active visual indication elements; and f) a flashing pattern of active visual indication elements.

11. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 5 to 10, wherein a user of the tactical tool can control the parameters of the visual indication elements within a given indication mode.

12. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 5 to 11, wherein the indication arrangement is configured for providing an independent alert or signal display, in addition to indications related to the different impact measures.

13. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 12, wherein the indication arrangement provides police lightbars display or a policeman light baton display.

14. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 13, wherein said tool further comprises a screen for providing indication to the user.

15. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 14, where the screen is configured for receiving a feed from a camera, allowing it to function as a digital scope.

16. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 14 or 15, wherein said screen is any one of the following: an LCD, OLED, AMOLED or equivalent.

17. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 16, wherein said indication arrangement comprises at least one acoustic component configured to provide an audial indication.

18. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 17, wherein said tactical tool is configured for being hand-held.

19. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 18, wherein at least one of the impact means of said impact arrangement is contained within a cartridge removable from the multi-purpose tool.

20. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 19, wherein said tactical tool comprises a controller module associated with both said impact arrangement and with said indication arrangement, the controller module being configured for uniquely associating each of the two or more indication modes with each of the two impact measures, respectively.

21. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 20, when dependent on Claim 13, wherein said controller is further configured for identifying the impact measure(s) in the cartridge and their respective impact level.

22. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 21, wherein said tactical tool further comprises a memory unit configured for recording parameters associated with the tactical tool.

23. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 22, wherein said tactical tool comprises communication means configured for communication with any one or a combination of the following: a) other tactical tools; b) a user of the tactical tool; c) users of other tactical tools; d) people facing the tactical tool; and e) a remote location f) people in the vicinity of the tool.

24. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 23, wherein said indication arrangement can be synchronized with the indication arrangement of neighboring multipurpose tactical tools.

25. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 23 or 24, wherein said indication arrangement can be synchronized remotely.

26. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 23, 24 or 25, wherein said indication arrangement provides indication to the user regarding a choice of an impact measure.

27. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 26, wherein said indication arrangement is configured for providing the user of the tactical tool with information regarding the condition of the tactical tool.

28. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 27, wherein the tactical tool itself is configured for use as an impact measure.

29. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 28, wherein said tactical tool is configured for being used as a baton or police club.

30. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 28 or 29, wherein said tactical tool comprises a reinforced structure.

31. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 30, wherein said reinforced structure comprises a reinforced tubular or composite body.

32. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 31, wherein the impact measures include both lethal and non-lethal measures.

33. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 32, where the multi-purpose tactical tool further includes a noise reduction component.

34. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 33, wherein the noise reduction component is a silencer or a muffler.

35. A cartridge for the use in a multi-purpose tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 34, wherein said cartridge comprises at least one impact measure configured to being activated by a mechanism of the multi-purpose tool.

36. A cartridge according to Claim 35, wherein said cartridge comprises an attachment mechanism configured for allowing said cartridge to be detachable attachable to said multi-purpose tool.

37. A cartridge according to Claim 35 or 36, wherein said cartridge comprises at least one interface configured for engaging with a respective interface of said multi-purpose tool in order to indicate to the user of the tool that said cartridge is properly attached.

38. A cartridge according to Claim 37, wherein engagement of the interfaces is also configured for indicating to the user of the tool which impact measure is carried by the cartridge.

39. A cartridge according to Claim 37 or 38, wherein said cartridge comprises at least a first impact measure and a second impact measure, and wherein, when the interface of said cartridge is properly engaged with the interface of said tool, said engagement allows the user to select which impact measure to use.

40. A cartridge according to Claim 37, 38 or 39, wherein said interface comprises at least one communication and control arrangement, electrical / electromagnetic contact.

41. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 1 to 34, comprising a recognition module configured for at least the following: i. receiving data from an area surrounding the MPTT;ii. based on said data, identifying an object at which the MPTT is aimed; and iii. based on the identification and said data, determine a measure of the MPTT to be used.

42. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 41 , wherein the obj ect is any one of the following: a person or a body part thereof, an animal or a body part thereof, and an object held or carried by a person or animal.

43. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 41 or 42, wherein the MPTT is designed to prioritize minimizing lethal injury to a target of the MPTT.

44. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 43, wherein the recognition module is configured to assign an injury severity scoring for the obj ect, and enable / disable at least one of said two or more impact measures based on said injury severity scoring.

45. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 44, wherein the recognition module is configured to assess a threat level of the target of the MPTT based on identification of the object, and apply it to the injury severity scoring.

46. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 41 to 45, wherein the recognition module is pre-programmed in a way configured for minimizing undesired injury to certain types of targets.

47. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 46, wherein the MPTT comprises a manual override for the pre-programming.

48. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 46 or 47, wherein the recognition module is one of: integral with the MPTT; an external module configured for being fitted to the MPTT; and completely physically separate from the MPTT controller, but be in communication therewith.

49. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 48, wherein the recognition module is configured for receiving data from an acquisition arrangement.

50. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to Claim 49, wherein the acquisition arrangement is one of the following: a camera of the MPTT; and at least part of a surveillance system covering the area at which the MPTT is used.

51. A multi-purpose tactical tool according to any one of Claims 46 to 50, wherein the recognition module employs Al tools trained to identify and analyze various types of threats.

52. A tactical tool comprising: at least one attack measure; a controller associated with said at least one attack measure and effective for operation thereof; a recognition module associated with the controller and configured for: i. receiving data from an area surrounding the MPTT; ii. based on said data, identifying an object at which the MPTT is aimed; and iii. based on the identification and said data, determine a threat level of said target; and iv. communicate with the controller to restrict use of said at least one attack measure based on said threat level.

53. A tactical tool according to Claim 52, wherein said recognition module is preprogrammed to minimize injury to specific types of targets.

54. A tactical tool according to Claim 52 or 53, wherein the recognition module employs Al tools trained to identify and analyze various types of threats.

55. A tactical tool according to Claim 54, wherein the Al tools are configured for identifying, classifying and distinguishing based on any one or a combination of the following: facial recognition, age, gender, physical dimensions, facial expressions, weapon carriage, Animal / Human, Image / Reality, and Friendlies / Hostiles.

56. A tactical tool according to Claim 55, wherein the recognition module is configured for using any one or a combination of the above mentioned parameters in order to calculate a threat scoring, and, based on this scoring, to adjust / select the appropriate attack measures.

57. A tactical tool according to Claim 54, 55 or 56, wherein, at least in a fully autonomous or semi-autonomous modes, where the decision on the use of an attack measure is at least partially dictated by the threat scoring, the MPTT is prevented from activation / attack against a certain target.

58. A tactical tool according to Claim 22, wherein the memory unit is configured for recording any one or a combination of the following: attack measure parameters, decision making, scene recording, and personalization.

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