Camera-Integrated CEW Electrode Spacing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conducted electrical weapons (CEWs) lack effective targeting mechanisms to ensure that electrodes are spaced appropriately on a target to achieve neuromuscular incapacitation (NMI), which can result in inconsistent outcomes.
Innovation Solution
Integration of cameras with CEWs to detect likely locations of impact of electrodes on a target, using laser sights and image processing algorithms to determine the distance between electrode impacts and classify body parts as suitable or unsuitable for electrode placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional CEW without camera integration is used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision of electrode spacing cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the camera system with the CEW device, integrating image capture, laser sighting, and electrode launch control into a single unified system. This combination enables precise measurement of target distance and positioning, ensuring accurate 6-18 inch electrode spacing while maintaining operational simplicity through integrated controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual estimation and mechanical measurement methods with optical-based camera and laser systems for determining target distance and electrode placement positioning. This substitution enables precise digital measurement and calculation of electrode spacing, achieving consistent 6-18 inch separation without complex mechanical measurement tools.
2Reliability
If manual electrode targeting is used, then device complexity is minimized, but reliability of NMI outcome deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through the camera system that captures target imagery, measures distance, and provides real-time information about target positioning and electrode trajectory. This feedback loop enables the operator to adjust aiming and launch parameters to ensure correct 6-18 inch electrode spacing, significantly improving NMI outcome reliability through verified precise placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by using the camera and laser system to pre-measure target distance, pre-position the electrodes, and pre-verify the 6-18 inch spacing geometry before actual electrode launch. This preliminary targeting and verification ensures that electrodes will be placed at optimal spacing for reliable NMI, eliminating guesswork and improving outcome consistency.
3Measurement precision
If camera integration with laser sights and image processing is implemented, then measurement precision of electrode impact locations is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the camera system to perform multiple functions: capturing target imagery for identification, measuring distance to target, tracking electrode trajectory, and determining impact location positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized devices, achieving high measurement precision while managing overall system complexity through integrated multi-purpose components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The camera-CEW system significantly increases the likelihood of achieving NMI by ensuring electrodes are spaced 7 or more inches apart on the target, thereby improving the effectiveness and consistency of CEW operations.
Implementation Method 1
A CEW uses a laser sight to project a beam of light for each of the one or more electrodes to be launched by the CEW
Implementation Method 2
A camera may detect the one or more spots created by the laser beams on the target at the likely locations of impact
Data Source
AI summary
Police officers use conducted electrical weapons (“CEWs”) and cameras. A camera and a CEW may cooperate to improve the performance and use of the CEW and evidence collection by the camera. A camera and a CEW may also cooperate to improve the safety of the user and the target. Improvements may include improving targeting of the CEW, identifying and classifying body parts of the target as suitable or unsuitable for electrode deployment, adjusting electrode trajectory prior to launch, and automating electrode launch. Evidence collection may be improved by recording placement of electrodes on the target. Safety of the target may be improved by monitoring the movements of the target and altering characteristics of the delivered stimulus signal if potential harm to the target may occur.