PAYLOAD DELIVERY AND DISPERSAL PROJECTILE

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 63/471,437 filed Jun. 6, 2023, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a projectile launcher.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a projectile launcher, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a projectile launcher, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 3A is a front perspective view of a projectile launcher magazine, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 3B is a rear perspective view of a projectile launcher magazine, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 4 is a cross section view of a projectile for a projectile launcher, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 5A is a cross section view of a projectile for a projectile launcher in a first state, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 5B is a cross section view of a projectile for a projectile launcher in a second state, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 5C is a cross section view of a projectile for a projectile launcher in a third state, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a cross section view of a projectile for a projectile launcher, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 7A is a cross section view of a first projectile that deploys a projectile payload, in accordance with various embodiments;

FIG. 7B is a cross section view of a second projectile that deploys a projectile payload, in accordance with various embodiments; and

FIG. 7C is a cross section view of a third projectile that deploys a projectile payload, in accordance with various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description of exemplary embodiments herein makes reference to the accompanying drawings, which show exemplary embodiments by way of illustration. While these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosures, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that logical changes and adaptations in design and construction may be made in accordance with this disclosure and the teachings herein. Thus, the detailed description herein is presented for purposes of illustration only and not of limitation.

The scope of the disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents rather than by merely the examples described. For example, the steps recited in any of the method or process descriptions may be executed in any order and are not necessarily limited to the order presented. Furthermore, any reference to singular includes plural embodiments, and any reference to more than one component or step may include a singular embodiment or step. Also, any reference to attached, fixed, coupled, connected, or the like may include permanent, removable, temporary, partial, full, and/or any other possible attachment option. Surface shading lines may be used throughout the figures to denote different parts but not necessarily to denote the same or different materials.

Systems, methods, and apparatuses may be used to interfere with voluntary locomotion (e.g., walking, running, moving, etc.) of a target. For example, a projectile launcher may be configured as a conducted electrical weapon (“CEW”) may be used to deliver a current (e.g., stimulus signal, pulses of current, pulses of charge, etc.) through tissue of a human or animal target. Although generally referred to as a CEW, as described herein, the term CEW may refer to a conducted electrical weapon, a conducted energy weapon, and/or any other similar device or apparatus configured to provide a stimulus signal through one or more deployed projectiles (e.g., electrodes).

Systems, methods, and apparatuses may be used to interfere with, prevent, and/or otherwise disincentivize escalation and/or further interaction during an event. For example, a projectile launcher may be utilized to deploy a deterrent and/or other substance to a human or animal target that disincentivizes further interaction. Additionally, the projectile launcher may be utilized to deploy an identifying substance and/or device to a human or animal target that enables the human or animal target to be identified at a different location and/or a later time removed from the event. The deterrent, identifying substance, and/or other substances may be referred to as a projectile payload.

A projectile payload may comprise a substance selected to induce a desired response and/or enable further interaction at a safe location and appropriate time. The substance may be stored and/or provided to the targeted human and/or animal as a gas, liquid, powered solid, fluid, and/or an otherwise dispersible state. Where the projectile payload comprises a deterrent, the projectile launcher may launch a projectile to disperse the projectile payload in proximity to a human or animal target. During dispersal, the deterrent may contact and/or otherwise interact with the human or animal target to cause pain, discomfort, confusion, disorientation, and/or otherwise deter the human or animal target from continuing a course of action. Where the projectile payload comprises other substances, the projectile launcher may launch the projectile to disperse and/or otherwise deploy the projectile payload in proximity to and/or in contact with the human or animal target.

A magazine may be a housing and/or structural component that receives one or more projectiles and/or cartridges. The magazine may be configured to receive and/or secure the one or more projectiles (and/or cartridges) within one or more firing tubes. Additionally, the magazine may be configured to fit within and/or couple with a handle of a projectile launcher. In some embodiments, each projectile may be directly received in a magazine. For example, the magazine may receive a respective projectile within the one or more firing tubes prior to deployment. After a projectile is deployed, another projectile may be inserted in the magazine to permit launch of another projectile. Projectiles may be inserted within the magazine while the magazine is associated with the handle or when the magazine is unassociated with the handle. Alternately or additionally, the magazine may receive one or more cartridges that each include one or more projectiles. Similar to the respective projectile above, the magazine may receive a respective cartridge within the one or more firing tubes prior to deployment.

In various embodiments, a magazine may include two or more projectiles (e.g., a cartridge containing two or more projectiles, two or more projectiles are launched directly from two or more firing tubes of the magazine, etc.) that are launched at the same time. In various embodiments, a magazine may include two or more projectiles that may each be launched individually at separate times. In various embodiments, a magazine may include a single projectile configured to be launched from the magazine. Launching the projectiles may be referred to as activating (e.g., firing) a magazine and/or a bay of the handle. After use (e.g., activation, firing), a magazine may be removed from the bay and replaced with an unused (e.g., not fired, not activated) magazine to permit launch of additional projectiles.

A cartridge may be configured as an external housing comprised of a single projectile. For example, a CEW cartridge may comprise a single electrode. Alternatively, a payload cartridge may comprise a single projectile having a single payload. The single projectile may be individually deployed from the cartridge and the magazine in which the cartridge is received. Alternately, a cartridge may comprise two or more projectiles that are launched at the same time. Launching or deploying a projectile may be referred to as activating (e.g., firing) a cartridge. After use (e.g., activation, firing), at least a portion of a cartridge may remain in the magazine. After the use, the portion of the cartridge may be removed from the magazine and replaced with an unused (e.g., not fired, not activated) cartridge to permit launch of an additional projectile or projectiles.

In various embodiments, a projectile launcher may include a handle and one or more magazines (e.g., deployment units, etc.). The handle may include one or more bays for receiving the magazine(s). Each magazine may be removably positioned in (e.g., inserted into, coupled to, etc.) a bay. Each magazine may releasably electrically, electronically, and/or mechanically couple to a bay. A deployment of the projectile launcher may launch one or more projectiles from the magazine toward a target to remotely deliver a projectile payload.

In various embodiments, a projectile may include a handle and one or more bays for receiving one or more projectiles (e.g., electrodes, pepper projectiles, marker projectiles, etc.). Each projectile may be removably positioned in (e.g., inserted into, coupled to, etc.) a bay. Each projectile may releasably electrically, electronically, and/or mechanically couple to a bay. A deployment of the projectile launcher may launch one or more projectiles from one or more bays of the handle and toward a target to remotely deliver the stimulus signal and/or the projectile payload.

In various embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 1, a projectile launcher 100 is disclosed. Projectile launcher 100 may be similar to, or have similar aspects and/or components with, any projectile launcher discussed herein. Projectile launcher 100 may comprise a housing 102 and a magazine 104. The housing 102 of projectile launcher 100 may further comprise a magazine receiver 106, a trigger 108, a control interface 110, a handle end 112, and a deployment end 114. It should be understood by one skilled in the art that FIGS. 3A and 3B are schematic representations of projectile launcher 100. It should be further noted that any of the one or more components of projectile launcher 100 may be located in any suitable position within, or external to, housing 102.

Housing 102 may be configured to house various components of projectile launcher 100 that are configured to enable deployment of magazine 104, provide an electrical current to magazine 104, and otherwise aid in the operation of projectile launcher 100, as discussed further herein. Although depicted as a firearm in FIG. 1, housing 102 may comprise any suitable shape and/or size. Housing 102 may comprise a handle end 112 opposite a deployment end 114. A deployment end 114 may be configured, sized, and shaped to receive one or more magazine 104 via a magazine receiver 106. A handle end 112 may be sized and shaped to be held in a hand of a user. For example, a handle end 112 may be shaped as a handle to enable hand-operation of projectile launcher 100 by the user. In various embodiments, a handle end 112 may also comprise contours shaped to fit the hand of a user, for example, an ergonomic grip. A handle end 112 may include a surface coating, such as, for example, a non-slip surface, a grip pad, a rubber texture, and/or the like. As a further example, a handle end 112 may be wrapped in leather, a colored print, and/or any other suitable material, as desired.

In various embodiments, housing 102 may comprise various mechanical, electronic, and/or electrical components configured to aid in performing the functions of projectile launcher 100. For example, housing 102 may comprise one or more triggers 108, control interfaces 110, processing circuits 202, user interfaces 204, power supplies 206, and/or signal generators 208. Housing 102 may include a guard (e.g., trigger guard). A guard may define an opening formed in housing 102. A guard may be located on a center region of housing 102 (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 1), and/or in any other suitable location on housing 102. Trigger 108 may be disposed within a guard. A guard may be configured to protect trigger 108 from unintentional physical contact (e.g., an unintentional activation of trigger 108). A guard may partially and/or fully surround trigger 108 within housing 102.

Magazine 104 may comprise and/or be associated with one or more propulsion modules 210 and/or one or more projectiles P. For example, a magazine 104 may comprise and/or be associated with a single propulsion module 210 configured to deploy a single projectile P. As a further example, a magazine 104 may comprise and/or be associated with a single propulsion module 210 configured to deploy a plurality of projectiles P. As an additional example, a magazine 104 may comprise and/or be associated with a plurality of propulsion modules 210 and a plurality of projectiles P, with each propulsion module 210 configured to deploy one or more projectiles P. In various embodiments, and as depicted in FIG. 2, magazine 104 may be associated with a propulsion module 210 configured to deploy a first projectile P0, a second projectile P1, a third projectile P2, and additional projectile(s) Pn. In additional embodiments, and as depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B, magazine 104 may be associated with a first propulsion module 210-1 configured to deploy a first projectile P0, a second propulsion module 210-2 configured to deploy a second projectile P1, a third propulsion module 210-3 configured to deploy a third projectile P2, and an additional propulsion module 210-n configured to deploy an additional projectile Pn. Each series of propulsion modules and projectiles may be associated with and/or contained in the same and/or separate magazines.

In various embodiments, a magazine receiver 106 of housing 102 may be configured to receive and/or couple with one or more magazine 104. Magazine receiver 106 may be configured as and/or include a channel that secures one or more magazine 104 within and/or to the magazine receiver 106. Magazine receiver 106 may be configured to receive at least a portion of magazine 104 to passively (i.e., one or more static structures that secure magazine 104) and/or actively (i.e., one or more dynamic structures that secure magazine 104 by switching from a first state to a second state) secure magazine 104 to housing 102. For example, magazine receiver 106 may be shaped to comprise an opening in deployment end 114 of housing 102 that permits insertion of magazine 104 within magazine receiver 106. Alternatively, or in addition, magazine receiver 106 may comprise one or more flanges, rails, ridges, or raised components that guide and/or secure a portion of magazine 104 within magazine receiver 106. In further examples, magazine receiver may include one or more components that engage magazine 104 based at least in part on magazine 104 being inserted, wherein the one or more components actively secure magazine 104 in response to the insertion. Generally, magazine receiver 106 may comprise one or more mechanical features configured to removably couple one or more magazine 104 within the magazine receiver 106 and in association with projectile launcher 100. The magazine receiver 106 may be configured to receive a single magazine, two magazines, three magazines, nine magazines, or any other number of magazines.

In various embodiments, a magazine receiver 106 of housing 102 may be configured as a bay that receives one or more magazine 104. The bay may comprise an opening at an end of housing 102 sized and shaped to receive one or more magazine 104. The bay may include one or more mechanical features configured to removably couple one or more magazine 104 within the bay. The bay of housing 102 may be configured to receive a single magazine, two magazines, three magazines, nine magazines, or any other number of magazines.

In various embodiments, magazine 104 may comprise a magazine interface that is configured to couple with a housing interface associated with housing 102. Magazine interface and housing interface may be configured to communicate signals, indicators, electrical currents, propellants, and information between magazine 104 and housing 102. For example, inserting magazine 104 into magazine receiver 106 may enable launching of one or more projectiles P by processing circuit 202. Additionally, magazine interface and housing interface may comprise one or more devices, sockets, plugs, connectors, nozzles, and other coupling components that enable the communication of signals, substances, and/or information.

In various embodiments, magazine 104 may comprise a plurality of magazine interfaces and a plurality of housing interfaces associated with housing 102. Individual magazine interfaces and individual housing interfaces may be configured to communicate at least one of signals, electrical currents, propellants, and information between magazine 104 and housing 102. For example, inserting magazine 104 into magazine receiver 106 may enable launching one or more projectiles P by processing circuit 202. The plurality of magazine interfaces and the plurality of housing interfaces may couple when magazine 104 is inserted into housing 102, forming one or more communication pathways that enable one or more projectiles P to be launched by control circuit 202.

Magazine 104 may comprise one or more propulsion modules 210 and one or more projectiles P. For example, a magazine 104 may comprise and/or be associated with a single propulsion module 210 configured to deploy a single projectile P. As a further example, a magazine 104 may comprise and/or be associated with a single propulsion module 210 configured to deploy a plurality of projectiles P. As a further example, a magazine 104 may comprise and/or be associated with a plurality of propulsion modules 210 and a plurality of projectiles P, with each propulsion module 210 configured to deploy one or more projectiles P. In various embodiments, and as depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, magazine 104 may be associated with propulsion module 210 configured to deploy a first projectile P0, a second projectile P1, a third projectile P2, and one or more additional projectiles Pn. Alternatively, propulsion module 210 may comprise a plurality of submodules such that a first propulsion submodule is configured to deploy the first projectile P0, a second propulsion submodule is configured to deploy the second projectile P1, a third propulsion submodule is configured to deploy the third projectile P2, and one or more additional propulsion submodules are configured to deploy the one or more addition projectiles Pn. Each series of propulsion modules and projectiles may be associated with and/or contained in the same and/or separate magazines.

In various embodiments, a propulsion module 210 may be coupled to, or in communication with one or more magazine 104. In particular, propulsion module 210 may be coupled to, or in communication with magazine 104 such that one or more projectiles P within magazine 104 may be launched, propelled, and/or otherwise driven towards a target. A propulsion module 210 may comprise any device, propellant (e.g., air, gas, etc.), primer, or the like capable of providing a propulsion force in magazine 104 and/or to one or more projectiles P. The propulsion force may include an increase in pressure caused by rapidly expanding gas within an area or chamber. The propulsion force may be directed from the propulsion module to one or more projectiles P in magazine 104 to cause the deployment of the one or more projectiles P. For example, housing 102 and magazine 104 may be in communication via magazine interface and housing interface. Magazine interface and housing interface may be configured to form a connection that provides propulsion force from propulsion module 210 associated with the housing 102 to one or more projectiles P associated with magazine 104. The propulsion force may be directed from the propulsion module 210, via the connection formed between magazine interface and housing interface, to cause the deployment of the one or more projectiles P.

In various embodiments, a propulsion module 210 may be coupled to, or in communication with one or more projectiles P in magazine 104. In various embodiments, magazine 104 may comprise a plurality of propulsion modules 210, with each propulsion module 210 coupled to, or in communication with, one or more projectiles P. As noted above, propulsion module 210 may provide a propulsion force in magazine 104. The propulsion force may include an increase in pressure caused by rapidly expanding gas within an area or chamber that causes deployment of the one or more projectiles P. Similar to examples discussed above, the propulsion force may be directed from the plurality of propulsion modules 210 to one or more projectiles P via one or more connections formed by magazine interface and housing interface.

In various embodiments, the propulsion force may be directly applied to one or more projectiles P. For example, a propulsion force from propulsion module 210 may be provided directly to first projectile P0. A propulsion module 210 may be in fluid communication with one or more projectiles to provide the propulsion force. For example, a propulsion force from propulsion module 210 may travel within a fluid channel associated with housing 102 and magazine 104 to first projectile P0. The propulsion force may travel via a manifold in housing 102 and/or magazine 104.

In various embodiments, the propulsion force may be provided indirectly to one or more projectiles P. For example, the propulsion force may be provided to a secondary source of propellant within propulsion module 210. The propulsion force may launch the secondary source of propellant within propulsion module 210, causing the secondary source of propellant to release propellant. A force associated with the released propellant may in turn provide a force to one or more projectiles P. A force generated by a secondary source of propellant may cause the one or more projectiles P to be deployed from the magazine 104 and projectile launcher 100.

In various embodiments, each projectile P0, P1, P2, . . . , and Pn may each be configured to provide a payload to a target. For example, a payload associated with one or more projectiles P may be or include an electrode (e.g., an electrode dart), an entangling projectile (e.g., a tether-based entangling projectile, a net, etc.), a solid substance, a liquid substance, gas substance, or the like. A projectile P may include a spear portion, designed to pierce and/or attach proximate to a tissue of a target in order to provide a conductive electrical path between the electrode and the tissue, as previously discussed herein. Alternatively, or in addition, a projectile P may include a contact portion, designed to slow, mitigate, and/or reduce an impact force of the projectile P on the target.

In various embodiments, trigger 108 (e.g., projectile launcher trigger, handle trigger, etc.) may be coupled to an outer surface of housing 102, and may be configured to move, slide, rotate, or otherwise become physically depressed or moved upon application of physical contact. For example, trigger 108 may be actuated by physical contact applied to trigger 108 from within a guard. Trigger 108 may comprise a mechanical or electromechanical switch, button, trigger, or the like. For example, trigger 108 may comprise a switch, a pushbutton, and/or any other suitable type of trigger. Trigger 108 may be mechanically and/or electronically coupled to processing circuit 202. In response to trigger 108 being activated (e.g., depressed, pushed, etc. by the user), processing circuit 202 may enable deployment of (or cause deployment of) one or more magazine 104 from projectile launcher 100, as discussed further herein.

Control interface 110 (e.g., projectile launcher control interface, handle control interface, etc.) of projectile launcher 100 may comprise, or be similar to, any control interface disclosed herein. In various embodiments, control interface 110 may be configured to control selection of firing modes in projectile launcher 100. Controlling selection of firing modes in projectile launcher 100 may include disabling firing of projectile launcher 100 (e.g., a safety mode, etc.), enabling firing of projectile launcher 100 (e.g., an active mode, a firing mode, an escalation mode, etc.), controlling deployment of magazine 104, and/or similar operations, as discussed further herein. In various embodiments, control interface 110 may also be configured to perform (or cause performance of) one or more operations that do not include the selection of firing modes. For example, control interface 110 may be configured to enable the selection of operating modes of projectile launcher 100, selection of options within an operating mode of projectile launcher 100, or similar selection or scrolling operations, as discussed further herein.

Control interface 110 may be located in any suitable location on or in housing 102. For example, control interface 110 may be coupled to an outer surface of housing 102. Control interface 110 may be coupled to an outer surface of housing 102, proximate to trigger 108, and/or a guard of housing 102. Control interface 110 may be electrically, mechanically, and/or electronically coupled to processing circuit 202. In various embodiments, in response to control interface 110 comprising electronic properties or components, control interface 110 may be electrically coupled to power supply 206. Control interface 110 may receive power (e.g., electrical current) from power supply 206 to power the electronic properties or components.

Control interface 110 may be electronically or mechanically coupled to trigger 108. For example, and as discussed further herein, control interface 110 may function as a safety mechanism. In response to control interface 110 being set to a “safety mode,” projectile launcher 100 may be unable to launch projectile(s) P from magazine 104. For example, control interface 110 may provide a signal (e.g., a control signal) to processing circuit 202 instructing processing circuit 202 to disable deployment of projectile(s) P from magazine 104. As a further example, control interface 110 may electronically or mechanically prohibit trigger 108 from activating (e.g., prevent or disable a user from depressing trigger 108; prevent trigger 108 from launching a projectile(s) P; etc.).

Control interface 110 may comprise any suitable electronic or mechanical component capable of enabling selection of firing modes. For example, control interface 110 may comprise a fire mode selector switch, a safety switch, a safety catch, a rotating switch, a selection switch, a selective firing mechanism, and/or any other suitable mechanical control. As a further example, control interface 110 may comprise a slide, such as a handgun slide, a reciprocating slide, or the like. As a further example, control interface 110 may comprise a touch screen, user interface or display, or similar electronic visual component.

The safety mode may be configured to prohibit deployment of a projectile P from magazine 104 in projectile launcher 100. For example, in response to a user selecting the safety mode, control interface 110 may transmit a safety mode instruction to processing circuit 202. In response to receiving the safety mode instruction, processing circuit 202 may prohibit deployment of a projectile P from magazine 104. Processing circuit 202 may prohibit deployment until a further instruction is received from control interface 110 (e.g., a firing mode instruction). As previously discussed, control interface 110 may also, or alternatively, interact with trigger 108 to prevent activation of trigger 108. In various embodiments, the safety mode may also be configured to prohibit deployment of a stimulus signal from signal generator 208, such as, for example, a local delivery.

The firing mode may be configured to enable deployment of one or more projectiles P from magazine 104 in projectile launcher 100. For example, and in accordance with various embodiments, in response to a user selecting the firing mode, control interface 110 may transmit a firing mode instruction to processing circuit 202. In response to receiving the firing mode instruction, processing circuit 202 may enable deployment of a projectile P from magazine 104 by propulsion module 210. In that regard, in response to trigger 108 being activated, processing circuit 202 may cause the deployment of one or more projectiles P. Processing circuit 202 may enable deployment until a further instruction is received from control interface 110 (e.g., a safety mode instruction). As a further example, and in accordance with various embodiments, in response to a user selecting the firing mode, control interface 110 may also mechanically (or electronically) interact with trigger 108 of projectile launcher 100 to enable activation of trigger 108.

In various embodiments, processing circuit 202 may comprise any circuitry, electrical components, electronic components, software, and/or the like configured to perform various operations and functions discussed herein. For example, processing circuit 202 may comprise a processing circuit, a processor, a digital signal processor, a microcontroller, a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device, logic circuitry, state machines, MEMS devices, signal conditioning circuitry, communication circuitry, a computer, a computer-based system, a radio, a network appliance, a data bus, an address bus, and/or any combination thereof. In various embodiments, processing circuit 202 may include passive electronic devices (e.g., resistors, capacitors, inductors, etc.) and/or active electronic devices (e.g., op amps, comparators, analog-to-digital converters, digital-to-analog converters, programmable logic, SRCs, transistors, etc.). In various embodiments, processing circuit 202 may include data buses, output ports, input ports, timers, memory, arithmetic units, and/or the like.

In various embodiments, processing circuit 202 may include signal conditioning circuity. Signal conditioning circuitry may include level shifters to change (e.g., increase, decrease) the magnitude of a voltage (e.g., of a signal) before receipt by processing circuit 202 or to shift the magnitude of a voltage provided by processing circuit 202.

In various embodiments, processing circuit 202 may be configured to control and/or coordinate operation of some or all aspects of projectile launcher 100. For example, processing circuit 202 may include (or be in communication with) memory configured to store data, programs, and/or instructions. The memory may comprise a tangible non-transitory computer-readable memory. Instructions stored on the tangible non-transitory memory may allow processing circuit 202 to perform various operations, functions, and/or steps, as described herein.

In various embodiments, the memory may comprise any hardware, software, and/or database component capable of storing and maintaining data. For example, a memory unit may comprise a database, data structure, memory component, or the like. A memory unit may comprise any suitable non-transitory memory known in the art, such as, an internal memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), solid state drive (SSD), etc.), removable memory (e.g., an SD card, an XD card, a CompactFlash card, etc.), or the like.

Processing circuit 202 may be configured to provide and/or receive electrical signals whether digital and/or analog in form. Processing circuit 202 may provide and/or receive digital information via a data bus using any protocol. Processing circuit 202 may receive information, manipulate the received information, and provide the manipulated information. Processing circuit 202 may store information and retrieve stored information. Information received, stored, and/or manipulated by processing circuit 202 may be used to perform a function, control a function, and/or to perform an operation or execute a stored program.

Processing circuit 202 may control the operation and/or function of other circuits and/or components of projectile launcher 100. Processing circuit 202 may receive status information regarding the operation of other components, perform calculations with respect to the status information, and provide commands (e.g., instructions) to one or more other components. Processing circuit 202 may command another component to start operation, continue operation, alter operation, suspend operation, cease operation, or the like. Commands and/or status may be communicated between processing circuit 202 and other circuits and/or components via any type of bus (e.g., SPI bus) including any type of data/address bus.

In various embodiments, processing circuit 202 may be mechanically and/or electronically coupled to trigger 108. Processing circuit 202 may be configured to detect an activation, actuation, depression, input, etc. (collectively, an “activation event”) of trigger 108. In response to detecting the activation event, processing circuit 202 may be configured to perform various operations and/or functions, as discussed further herein. Processing circuit 202 may also include a sensor (e.g., a trigger sensor) attached to trigger 108 and configured to detect an activation event of trigger 108. The sensor may comprise any suitable sensor, such as a mechanical and/or electronic sensor capable of detecting an activation event in trigger 108 and reporting the activation event to processing circuit 202.

In various embodiments, processing circuit 202 may be mechanically and/or electronically coupled to control interface 110. Processing circuit 202 may be configured to detect an activation, actuation, depression, input, etc. (collectively, a “control event”) of control interface 110. In response to detecting the control event, processing circuit 202 may be configured to perform various operations and/or functions, as discussed further herein. Processing circuit 202 may also include a sensor (e.g., a control sensor) attached to control interface 110 and configured to detect a control event of control interface 110. The sensor may comprise any suitable mechanical and/or electronic sensor capable of detecting a control event in control interface 110 and reporting the control event to processing circuit 202.

In various embodiments, processing circuit 202 may be electrically and/or electronically coupled to power supply 206. Processing circuit 202 may receive power from power supply 206. The power received from power supply 206 may be used by processing circuit 202 to receive signals, process signals, and transmit signals to various other components in projectile launcher 100. Processing circuit 202 may use power from power supply 206 to detect an activation event of trigger 108, a control event of control interface 110, or the like, and generate one or more control signals in response to the detected events. The control signal may be based on the control event and the activation event. The control signal may be an electrical signal.

In various embodiments, power supply 206 may be configured to provide power to various components of projectile launcher 100. For example, power supply 206 may provide energy for operating the electronic and/or electrical components (e.g., parts, subsystems, circuits, etc.) of projectile launcher 100 and/or one or more magazine 104. Power supply 206 may provide electrical power. Providing electrical power may include providing a current at a voltage. Power supply 206 may be electrically coupled to processing circuit 202 and/or signal generator 208. In various embodiments, in response to a control interface comprising electronic properties and/or components, power supply 206 may be electrically coupled to the control interface 110. In various embodiments, in response to trigger 108 comprising electronic properties or components, power supply 206 may be electrically coupled to trigger 108. Power supply 206 may provide an electrical current at a voltage. Electrical power from power supply 206 may be provided as a direct current (“DC”). Electrical power from power supply 206 may be provided as an alternating current (“AC”). Power supply 206 may include a battery. The energy of power supply 206 may be renewable or exhaustible, and/or replaceable. For example, power supply 206 may comprise one or more rechargeable or disposable batteries. In various embodiments, the energy from power supply 206 may be converted from one form (e.g., electrical, magnetic, thermal) to another form to perform the functions of a system.

Power supply 206 may provide energy for performing the functions of projectile launcher 100. For example, power supply 206 may provide the electrical current to signal generator 208 that is provided through a target to impede locomotion of the target (e.g., via magazine 104). Power supply 206 may provide the energy for a stimulus signal. Power supply 206 may provide the energy for other signals, including an ignition signal, as discussed further herein.

In various embodiments, processing circuit 202 may be electrically and/or electronically coupled to signal generator 208. Processing circuit 202 may be configured to transmit or provide control signals to signal generator 208 in response to detecting an activation event of trigger 108. Multiple control signals may be provided from processing circuit 202 to signal generator 208 in series. In response to receiving the control signal, signal generator 208 may be configured to perform various functions and/or operations, as discussed further herein.

In various embodiments, signal generator 208 may be configured to receive one or more control signals from processing circuit 202. Signal generator 208 may provide an ignition signal to magazine 104 and/or propulsion module 210 based on the control signals. Signal generator 208 may be electrically and/or electronically coupled to processing circuit 202, propulsion module 210, and/or magazine 104. Signal generator 208 may be electrically coupled to power supply 206. Signal generator 208 may use power received from power supply 206 to generate an ignition signal. For example, signal generator 208 may receive an electrical signal from power supply 206 that has first current and voltage values. Signal generator 208 may transform the electrical signal into an ignition signal having second current and voltage values. The transformed second current and/or the transformed second voltage values may be different from the first current and/or voltage values. The transformed second current and/or the transformed second voltage values may be the same as the first current and/or voltage values. Signal generator 208 may temporarily store power from power supply 206 and rely at least in part on the stored power to provide the ignition signal. Signal generator 208 may also rely at least in part on received power from power supply 206 to provide the ignition signal, without needing to temporarily store power.

Signal generator 208 may be controlled at least in part by processing circuit 202. In various embodiments, signal generator 208 and processing circuit 202 may be separate components (e.g., physically distinct and/or logically discrete). Signal generator 208 and processing circuit 202 may be a single component. For example, a control circuit within housing 102 may at least include signal generator 208 and processing circuit 202. The control circuit may also include other components and/or arrangements, including those that further integrate corresponding function of these elements into a single component or circuit, as well as those that further separate one or more functions into separate components or circuits.

Signal generator 208 may be controlled by the control signals to generate an ignition signal having a predetermined current value or values. For example, signal generator 208 may include a current source. The control signal may be received by signal generator 208 to activate the current source at a current value of the current source. An additional control signal may be received to decrease a current of the current source. For example, signal generator 208 may include a pulse width modification circuit coupled between a current source and an output of the control circuit. A second control signal may be received by signal generator 208 to activate the pulse width modification circuit, thereby decreasing a non-zero period of a signal generated by the current source and an overall current of an ignition signal subsequently output by the control circuit. The pulse width modification circuit may be separate from a circuit of the current source or, alternatively, integrated within a circuit of the current source. Various other forms of signal generators 208 may alternatively or additionally be employed, including those that apply a voltage over one or more different resistances to generate signals with different currents. In various embodiments, signal generator 208 may include a high-voltage module configured to deliver an electrical current having a high voltage. In various embodiments, signal generator 208 may include a low-voltage module configured to deliver an electrical current having a lower voltage, such as, for example, 2,000 volts.

Responsive to receipt of a signal indicating activation of trigger 108 (e.g., an activation event, an activation signal, etc.), processing circuit 202 may provide an ignition signal to magazine 104, a projectile P in magazine 104, and/or a propulsion module 210 associated with magazine 104. For example, signal generator 208 may provide an electrical signal as an ignition signal to magazine 104 in response to receiving a control signal from processing circuit 202. In various embodiments, the ignition signal may be separate and distinct from a stimulus signal. For example, a stimulus signal in projectile launcher 100 may be provided to a different circuit within magazine 104, relative to a circuit to which an ignition signal is provided. Signal generator 208 may be configured to generate a stimulus signal. In various embodiments, a second, separate signal generator, component, or circuit (not shown) within housing 102 may be configured to generate the stimulus signal. Signal generator 208 may also provide a ground signal path for magazine 104, thereby completing a circuit for an electrical signal provided to magazine 104 by signal generator 208. The ground signal path may also be provided to magazine 104 by other elements in housing 102, including power supply 206.

In various embodiments, projectile launcher 100 may deliver a stimulus signal via a circuit that includes signal generator 208 positioned in the handle and/or handle end 112 of projectile launcher 100. An interface (e.g., cartridge interface, magazine interface, etc.) mounted on and/or associated with each magazine 104 inserted into housing 102 and/or magazine receiver 106 electrically couples to an interface (e.g., handle interface, housing interface, etc.) in the handle of housing 102. Signal generator 208 couples to each magazine 104, and thus to electrodes associated with one or more projectiles P, via the handle interface and the magazine interface. A first filament may couple to magazine interface and to a first electrode associated with a first projectile P0. A second filament may couple to the magazine interface and to a second electrode associated with a second projectile P1. The stimulus signal travels from signal generator 208, through the first filament and the first electrode, through target tissue, and through the second electrode and second filament back to signal generator 208.

In various embodiments, projectile launcher 100 may further comprise one or more user interfaces 204. A user interface 204 may be configured to receive an input from a user of projectile launcher 100 and/or transmit an output to the user of projectile launcher 100. User interface 204 may be located in any suitable location on or in housing 102. For example, user interface 204 may be coupled to an outer surface of housing 102 or extend at least partially through the outer surface of housing 102. User interface 204 may be electrically, mechanically, and/or electronically coupled to processing circuit 202. In various embodiments, in response to user interface 204 comprising electronic or electrical properties or components, user interface 204 may be electrically coupled to power supply 206. User interface 204 may receive power (e.g., electrical current) from power supply 206 to power the electronic properties or components.

In various embodiments, user interface 204 may comprise one or more components configured to receive an input from a user. For example, user interface 204 may comprise one or more of an audio capturing module (e.g., microphone) configured to receive an audio input, a visual display (e.g., touchscreen, LCD, LED, etc.) configured to receive a manual input, a mechanical interface (e.g., button, switch, etc.) configured to receive a manual input, and/or the like. In various embodiments, user interface 204 may comprise one or more components configured to transmit or produce an output. For example, user interface 204 may comprise one or more of an audio output module (e.g., audio speaker) configured to output audio, a light-emitting component (e.g., flashlight, laser guide, etc.) configured to output light, a visual display (e.g., touchscreen, LCD, LED, etc.) configured to output a visual, and/or the like.

In various embodiments, and with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, a magazine 300 for a projectile launcher is disclosed. Magazine 300 may be similar to any other magazine, deployment unit, or the like disclosed herein (e.g., magazine 104).

Magazine 300 may comprise a housing 302 sized and shaped to be inserted into a magazine receiver of a projectile launcher housing, as previously discussed. Housing 302 may comprise a first end 304 (e.g., a deployment end, a front end, etc.) opposite a second end 306 (e.g., a loading end, a rear end, etc.). Magazine 300 may be configured to permit launch of one or more projectiles from first end 304 (e.g., projectiles are launched through first end 304). Magazine 300 may be configured to permit loading of one or more electrodes from second end 306. Second end 306 may also be configured to permit provision of stimulus signals from the signal generator of the projectile launcher to the one or more projectiles. In some embodiments, magazine 300 may also be configured to permit loading of one or more electrodes from first end 304.

In various embodiments, housing 302 may define one or more bores 308. A bore 308 may comprise an axial opening through housing 302, defined and open on first end 304 and/or second end 306. Each bore 308 may be configured to receive a projectile (or cartridge containing a projectile). Each bore 308 may be sized and shaped accordingly to receive and house a projectile (or cartridge containing a projectile) prior to and during deployment of the projectile from magazine 300. Each bore 308 may comprise any suitable deployment angle. One or more bores 308 may comprise similar deployment angles. One or more bores 308 may comprise different deployment angles. Housing 302 may comprise any suitable or desired number of bores 308, such as, for example, two bores, five bores, nine bores, ten bores (e.g., as depicted), and/or the like.

In various embodiments, housing 302 may be configured to receive one or more cartridges 310. A cartridge 310 may comprise a body 312 housing a projectile and/or one or more components utilized to deploy the projectile from body 312. For example, cartridge 310 may comprise a projectile and a propulsion module. The projectile may be similar to any other electrode, projectile, or the like disclosed herein. The propulsion module may be similar to any other propulsion module, primer, or the like disclosed herein.

In various embodiments, cartridge 310 may comprise a cylindrical outer body 312 defining a hollow inner portion. The hollow inner portion may house a projectile (e.g., an electrode, a spear, filament wire, projectile payload, projectile head, etc.). The hollow inner portion may house a propulsion module configured to deploy the electrode from a first end of the cylindrical outer body 312. Cartridge 310 may include a piston positioned adjacent to a second end of the projectile. The propulsion module within cartridge 310 may be positioned such that the piston is located between the projectile and the propulsion module. Cartridge 310 may also have a wad positioned substantially adjacent to the piston, where the wad is located between the propulsion module and the piston.

In various embodiments, a cartridge 310 may comprise a contact 314 on an end of body 312. Contact 314 may be configured to allow cartridge 310 to receive an electrical signal from a signal generator or processing circuit associated with a projectile launcher. For example, contact 314 may comprise an electrical contact configured to enable the completion of an electrical circuit between cartridge 310 and the signal generator of the projectile launcher. In that regard, contact 314 may be configured to transmit (or provide) a stimulus signal from the projectile launcher to an electrode within the projectile. As a further example, contact 314 may be configured to transmit (or provide) an electrical signal (e.g., an ignition signal) from the signal generator and/or processing circuit of the projectile launcher to a propulsion module within the cartridge 310. For example, contact 314 may be configured to transmit (or provide) the electrical signal to a conductor of the propulsion module, thereby causing the conductor to heat up and ignite a pyrotechnic material inside the propulsion module. Ignition of the pyrotechnic material may cause the propulsion module to deploy (e.g., directly or indirectly) the electrode from the cartridge 310.

In operation, a cartridge 310 may be inserted into a bore 308 of a magazine 300. The magazine 300 may be inserted into the magazine receiver of the projectile launcher. The projectile launcher may be operated to deploy a projectile from the cartridge 310 in magazine 300. Magazine 300 may be removed from the bay of the projectile launcher handle. The cartridge 310 (e.g., a used cartridge, a spent cartridge, etc.) may be removed from the bore 308 of magazine 300. A new cartridge 310 may then be inserted into the same bore 308 of magazine 300 for additional deployments. The number of cartridges 310 that magazine 300 is capable of receiving may be dependent on a number of bores 308 in housing 302. For example, in response to housing 302 comprising ten bores 308, magazine 300 may be configured to receive ten cartridges 310 at the same time. As a further example, in response to housing 302 comprising two bores 308, magazine 300 may be configured to receive two cartridges 310 at the same time.

In various embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 4, projectile launcher 100 may be configured to launch a projectile 400. Projectile 400 may be similar to, or have similar aspects and/or components with, any projectile discussed herein (e.g., one or more projectiles P). Projectile 400 may comprise a projectile housing 402, a first end 404, a second end 406, and an internal channel 408. The first end 404 of projectile 400 may be configured to receive a launch force from projectile launcher 100. The second end 406 of projectile 400 may be configured to impact a target after launch and cause projectile payload 410 to be dispersed proximate to the target. Internal channel 408 of projectile 400 may comprise a volume defined by projectile housing 402. Additionally, internal channel 408 may secure projectile payload 410, first stopper 412, primer assembly 414, second stopper 416, and impact absorber 418. It should be noted that any of the one or more components of projectile 400 may be located in any suitable position within, or external to, projectile housing 402.

In various embodiments, a projectile housing may be a structural component that is configured to define a projectile and/or contain various internal components of the projectile. A first end of the projectile housing may be referred to and utilized as a projectile base. A second end of the projectile, opposite the first end, may be referred to and utilized as a projectile tip and/or a projectile head. The projectile base may be configured to receive a driving force, a launch force, and/or another force that launches the projectile from a projectile launcher. The projectile tip may be configured to contact a target. Additionally, the projectile housing may be configured to rupture, break, open, and/or otherwise permit a payload of the projectile to disperse and/or be deployed from within the projectile housing in response to at least the projectile impacting a target.

In various embodiments, projectile housing 402 may be configured to substantially contain internal components of projectile 400. Projectile housing 402 may be disposed substantially adjacent to first end 404 and second end 406. Alternatively, or in addition, first end 404 may comprise a first portion of projectile housing 402 and/or second end 406 may comprise a second portion of projectile housing 402. First end 404 may be configured as a projectile base that receives a force from a propulsion module to launch projectile 400 from projectile launcher 100. Second end 406 may be configured as a projectile head that contacts a target. The first portion of projectile housing 402 may define and/or be included in first end 404 to receive the force from the propulsion module and direct the force such that projectile 400 is deployed, launched, and/or otherwise accelerated towards the target. The second portion of projectile housing 402 may define, support, and/or be attached to second end 406 to receive an additional force from the second end 406. Additionally, projectile housing 402 may comprise an internal surface that defines internal channel 408, internal channel 408 extending at least partially between the first end 404 to the second end 406. Projectile housing 402 may comprise an external surface that enables projectile 400 to be inserted into at least a magazine and/or cartridge. Additionally, the external surface of projectile housing 402 may enable projectile 400 to be launched from projectile launcher 100. It should be noted that while various embodiments of projectile 400 and other projectiles being formed as cylinders, projectile 400 and other projectiles may be configured as any three-dimensional shape capable of defining internal channel 408 and being launched from projectile launcher 100.

Projectile housing 402 may be configured such that projectile payload 410 may be dispersed and/or otherwise deployed upon impact at a target. For example, projectile housing 402 may be configured to break, shatter, open, rupture, and/or otherwise deploy projectile payload 410. Projectile housing 402 may be formed from a material selected to contain projectile payload 410 prior to contact with the target. Additionally, projectile housing 402 may deploy, release, and/or otherwise permit dispersal of projectile payload 410 in response to primer assembly 414 activating. For example, primer assembly 414 may comprise pyrotechnic material that is ignited in response to projectile 400 contacting the target and emits gases that deploy projectile payload 410 from within projectile housing 402. Alternatively, or in addition, primer assembly 414 may comprise a propellant source that emits gases to deploy projectile payload from within projectile housing 402. It should be noted that primer assembly 414 may be configured to break, shatter, rupture, and/or otherwise open projectile housing 402 to deploy projectile payload 410 and/or cause projectile payload 410 to be dispersed from within projectile housing 402.

First end 404 of projectile 400 may be configured as a projectile base that receives the launch force generated by a propulsion module of projectile launcher 100. The launch force applied to first end 404 may accelerate projectile 400 and cause projectile 400 to launch from projectile launcher 100. Launching projectile 400 from projectile launcher 100 may cause projectile 400 to travel towards the target. First end 404 may comprise a first diameter D1 and a first opening associated with internal channel 408. Additionally, first stopper 412 may be located proximate to and/or within first end 404. First stopper may be configured to substantially prevent projectile payload 410 from leaking, spilling, and/or otherwise exiting projectile 400 via first end 404. As noted above, and in various embodiments, first end 404 may include a portion of projectile housing 402 that is configured to secure components of projectile 400 associated with the first end 404. Further, the portion of projectile housing 402 included in first end 404 may provide some functionality of first end 404. For example, the portion of projectile housing 402 included in first end 404 may receive at least an amount of the launch force.

Second end 406 of projectile 400 may be configured as a projectile head and/or a projectile tip that impacts the target after launch. Second end 406 may be further configured to contain and/or secure at least primer assembly 414, second stopper 416, and impact absorber 418. Additionally, second end 406 may comprise a second diameter D2 and a second opening associated with internal channel 408. Primer assembly 414 and/or second stopper 416 may be secured by projectile housing 402 proximate to and/or within the second end 406. Second stopper 416 and/or primer assembly 414 may be configured to substantially prevent projectile payload 410 from leaking spilling and/or otherwise leaving projectile 400 via second end 406. As noted above, and in various embodiments, second end 404 may include a portion of projectile housing 402 that is configured to secure components of projectile 400 associated with second end 406. Further, the portion of projectile housing 402 included in second end 406 may provide some functionality of second end 406. For example, the portion of projectile housing 402 included in second end 406 may receive at least an amount of an applied force received by impact absorber 418 in response to second end 406 contacting the target.

In various embodiments, projectile housing 402 may define at least a portion of projectile 400, first end 404, and/or second end 406. Projectile housing 402 may include one or more steps, slopes, ridges, and/or other variations in internal and/or external diameter. First diameter D1 may be greater than, equal to, and/or less than second diameter D2 based at least on a configuration of a magazine, a cartridge, and/or other portion of projectile launcher 100. For example, a cartridge associated with projectile 400 may be configured such that first diameter D1 is less than second diameter D2 and projectile housing 402 comprises a step where the diameter of projectile housing 402 transitions from first diameter D1 to second diameter D2. Alternatively, projectile housing 402 may comprise a step that changes a thickness of projectile housing 402. Further, projectile housing 402 may be configured such that first diameter D1 is substantially equal to second diameter D2 (as depicted by FIG. 4).

In various embodiments, projectile housing 402 may comprise an external housing surface and an internal housing surface. The external housing surface may be configured to be disposed proximate to an internal surface of a bore, firing tube, or other recess associated with a magazine and/or cartridge. Additionally, the external housing surface may permit projectile 400 to be launched from the magazine and/or the cartridge by projectile launcher 100. The internal housing surface may be configured to secure, couple with, and/or otherwise enable various components of projectile 400 to be disposed within projectile housing 402.

First end 404 may comprise first stopper 412, wherein first stopper 412 may be configured to contain projectile payload 410. Additionally, first stopper 412 may be configured to bound and/or define an interior of projectile 400, wherein the interior of projectile 400 contains projectile payload 410 and primer assembly 414. First stopper 412 may be partially disposed and/or fully disposed within projectile housing 402. First stopper 412 may be permanently and/or removably coupled to an internal surface of projectile housing 402. For example, first stopper 412 may be configured to remain substantially static relative to projectile house 402 upon launch of projectile 400 and upon impact of projectile 400 with the target. Alternatively, or in addition, first stopper 412 may be integrated with projectile housing 402.

In various embodiments, first stopper 412 may be configured for installation within internal channel 408. First stopper 412 may share a central axis with internal channel 408 and extend radially out from the central axis to contact an internal surface of projectile housing 402. First stopper 412 may be coupled with the internal surface by an adhesive, a mechanical component, and/or other coupling component. Alternatively, or in addition, first stopper 412 may be secured in a first stopper position within internal channel 408 by the internal surface of projectile housing 402 by an adhesive, a mechanical component, a size of first stopper 412, a diameter of internal channel 408, and/or other configuration of first stopper 412. Additionally, a substantially fluid-tight seal may be formed between first stopper 412 and the internal surface to substantially prevent the projectile payload from passing between first stopper 412 and the internal surface.

In various embodiments, first stopper 412 may be configured to modulate, control, and/or otherwise manage acceleration of projectile 400. For example, primer assembly 414 may be configured such that sudden acceleration and/or deceleration may activate, trigger, and/or otherwise cause primer assembly 414 to disperse projectile payload 410. First stopper 412 may be configured to manage accelerating forces during launch of projectile 400 from projectile launcher 100 by extending an acceleration period through compression, decompression, and other deformations of first stopper 412. Extension of the acceleration period may substantially prevent early, inadvertent, and/or accidental triggering of primer assembly 414.

In various embodiments, first stopper 412 may be configured as a substantially static structure that does not experience compression and/or deformation during acceleration. First stopper 412 may be configured to remain substantially static such that acceleration of projectile 400 is modulated, controlled, and/or otherwise managed by a propulsion module associated with projectile launcher 100. Further, primer assembly 414 may be configured such that activation of primer assembly 414 is dependent on at least deceleration of projectile 400 after launch from projectile launcher 100.

Second end 406 may comprise primer assembly 414, second stopper 416, and impact absorber 418, wherein primer assembly 414 may be configured to contain projectile payload 410. Additionally, primer assembly 414, second stopper 416, and/or impact absorber 418 may be configured to bound and/or define portions of projectile 400. Second stopper 416 may be partially disposed and/or fully disposed within projectile housing 402. Second stopper 416 may be permanently and/or removably coupled to an internal surface of projectile housing 402. Similarly, impact absorber 418 may be permanently and/or removably coupled to the internal surface of projectile housing 402. Primer assembly 414 may be transiently coupled and/or associated with the internal surface of projectile housing 402. For example, primer assembly 414 may be configured to remain substantially static relative to projectile housing 402 upon launch of projectile 400 and translate within projectile housing 402 upon impact with the target. Second stopper 416 may be configured to remain substantially static relative to projectile housing 402 upon launch of projectile 400 and upon impact of projectile 400 with the target. Impact absorber 418 may be configured to remain substantially static upon launch of projectile 400 and to compress upon impact of projectile 400 with the target.

Internal channel 408 may be defined by the internal surface of projectile housing 402. Portions of internal channel 408 may be separated and/or bounded by the internal components of projectile 400. For example, a first portion of internal channel 408 may be defined by a first opening in projectile housing 402 and first stopper 412. The first portion of internal channel 408 and first stopper 412 may be configured to receive the launch force from a propulsion module associated with projectile launcher 100. Similarly, a second portion of internal channel 408 may be defined by first stopper 412 and primer assembly 414, wherein the second portion contains projectile payload 410 prior to impact of projectile 400 upon the target. A third portion of internal channel 408 may be defined by primer assembly 414 and second stopper 416. The primer assembly 414 may be configured to translate within the third portion upon impact with the target to contact ignition pin 428, wherein ignition of primer charge 426 may cause expanding gases within at least the third portion to rupture projectile housing 402. Rupture of projectile housing 402 may further cause projectile payload 410 to be dispersed from the second portion of internal channel 408.

Projectile payload 410 may be fluid, powder, and/or other substance that dispersed upon impact of projectile 400 upon the target. Projectile payload 410 may at least partially fill the second portion of the internal channel between first stopper 412 and primer assembly 414. Additionally, projectile payload 410 may comprise a substance selected for disincentivizing the target from a course of action (e.g., pepper projectiles may disincentivize a person from escalating/continuing a conflict), marking the target for later identification (e.g., an ink may enable vehicles, individuals, and/or property to be identified), and/or otherwise interacting with the target. Further, projectile payload 410 may be substantially contained within internal channel 408 prior to impact upon the target and dispersed from internal channel 408 after impact upon the target.

In various embodiments, a primer assembly may be a component of a projectile that causes a projectile payload to be deployed proximate to a target of the projectile. The primer assembly may be configured to reside within the projectile and activate upon contact with the target. In response to contacting the target, the primer assembly may cause the projectile payload to be deployed from the projectile such. The primer assembly may be configured as primer assembly 414. Primer assembly 414 may comprise primer securing ring 420, primer wall 422, primer igniter 424, and primer charge 426. Primer assembly 414 may be configured to remain substantially static relative to projectile housing 402 and projectile payload 410 during launch of projectile 400 from projectile launcher 100. Additionally, primer assembly 414 may be configured to activate upon impact of projectile 400 upon the target. For example, primer assembly 414 may be disposed in a rest state, an initial state, an assembled state, and/or other first state when projectile 400 is associated with projectile launcher 100. Further, primer assembly 414 may be configured to substantially remain the first state prior to impact of projectile 400 upon the target independent of additional handling and/or management of projectile 400. In response to impact upon the target, primer assembly may transition from the first state to an activated state, a triggered state, and/or other second state. Transition from the first state to the second state may result in primer assembly 414 dispersing projectile payload 410 and/or causing projectile payload 410 to be dispersed by projectile 400.

In various embodiments, primer assembly 414 may be configured to activate in response to projectile 400 impacting the target. Primer assembly 414 may be activated by momentum, kinetic energy, decelerating forces, and/or other projectile dynamics associated with a launched projectile 400. Activation of primer assembly 414 may cause primer assembly 414 to translate within internal channel 408 in response to impact with the target. For example, primer securing ring 420 may be configured to substantially prevent translation of primer assembly 414 by applied forces less than a force threshold. Impact of projectile 400 upon the target may cause projectile 400 and primer assembly 414 to experience a decelerating force. The decelerating force is applied to primer assembly 414 by contact between projectile housing 402 and primer securing ring 420. Where the decelerating force exceeds the force threshold, primer assembly 414 may translate within internal channel 408. Translation of primer assembly 414 may cause primer igniter 424 to contact ignition pin 428, wherein contact between primer igniter 424 and ignition pin 428 ignites primer charge 426.

In various embodiments, a primer lock may be configured to secure a primer assembly in place prior to impact of a projectile upon a target. The primer lock may secure the primer assembly via mechanical components, friction, and/or other securing components. Additionally, the primer lock may be configured to release the primer assembly in response to the projectile impacting the target. Further, the primer lock may be configured to secure the primer assembly such that the primer assembly remains substantially static, affixed, attached, and/or other secured in association with the projectile prior to impact upon the target. The primer lock may be a component of the projectile that secures the primer assembly to the projectile. Alternatively, the primer lock may be a component of the primer assembly that secures the primer assembly to the projectile. Alternatively, the primer lock may be a separate component that secures the primer assembly to the projectile.

In various embodiments, a primer lock may be configured as primer securing ring 420. Primer securing ring 420 may be configured as a ring that is disposed radially outward from primer wall 422 and radially within projectile housing 402. Additionally, primer securing ring 420 may be configured to contact the internal surface of projectile housing 402 and the external surface of primer wall 422. Primer securing ring 420 may space primer wall 422 from projectile housing 402. Contact with projectile housing 402 and primer wall 422 may enable primer securing ring 420 to substantially prevent translation of primer assembly 414 relative to projectile housing 402 prior to projectile 400 contacting the target. For example, primer securing ring 420 may be formed from a plastic, elastomeric, polymeric, and/or other suitable material for securing primer assembly 414 prior to impact and releasing primer assembly 414 in response to impact upon the target. It should be noted that suitability of material may be associated with primer securing ring 420 being configured to have a force threshold that substantially prevents accidental, uninitiated, and/or otherwise undesired deployment of projectile payload 410 and/or enables release of primer assembly in response to contact with the target.

Primer securing ring 420 may be associated with a force threshold. For an applied force and/or applied forces less than the force threshold, primer securing ring 420 may substantially prevent translation of primer assembly 414 relative to projectile housing 402. For an additional applied force and/or additional applied forces greater than the force threshold, primer securing ring 420 may release primer assembly 414 and/or permit primer assembly 414 to translate relative to projectile housing 402. The force threshold may be determined by the force of friction between at least two of projectile housing 402, primer assembly 414, and/or primer securing ring 420. Similarly, the applied force(s) and/or the additional applied force(s) may be associated with projectile acceleration, projectile deceleration, projectile handling, and/or other forces experienced by projectile 400. Alternatively, the force threshold may be determined by a shear strength, tensional strength, and/or other material property associated with an adhesive and/or mechanical component coupling primer securing ring 420 to projectile housing 402 and/or primer assembly 414.

In various embodiments, a primer wall may be used to contain a dispersal mechanism for a projectile payload. The primer wall may be configured to contain the dispersal mechanism prior to and during translation between a rest position (e.g., a first position, an assembled position, an initial position, etc.) and an activation position (e.g., a second position, an activated position, a dispersal position, etc.). The primer wall may be configured as primer wall 422 and may be configured to contain primer igniter 424 and primer charge 426. For example, primer wall 422 may be configured as a hollow cylinder that primer igniter 424 and primer charge 426 are disposed within. Primer igniter 424 and/or primer charge 426 may be coupled to, secured by, and/or otherwise contained within primer wall 422.

Primer wall 422 may comprise one or more ring stops 430 disposed on the radially outward surface of primer wall 422. One or more ring stops 430 may be configured as a ridge, raise flange, recess, and/or other mechanical component that substantially prevents disassociation of primer assembly 414 and primer securing ring 420 prior to impact with the target. Ring stop(s) 430 may be further configured such that at least a portion of ring stop 430 extends radially outward beyond a radially internal portion primer securing ring 420. Additionally, the portion of ring stop 430 may be disposed within internal channel 408 such that translation of primer assembly 414 causes ring stop 430 to contact primer securing ring 420. Ring stop 430 may be configured to substantially prevent translation of primer assembly 414 for applied forces less than the force threshold associated with primer securing ring 420. Similarly, ring stop 430 may be configured to cause primer securing ring 420 to translate with primer assembly 414 for applied forces greater than the force threshold. Alternatively, ring stop 430 may be configured to translate past ring stop 430 and permit translation of primer assembly 414 for applied forces greater than the force threshold.

In various embodiments, a primer activator may be configured to initiate dispersion of the projectile payload in response to the projectile contacting the target. The primer activator may be configured to activate the dispersal mechanism and/or initiate dispersion of the projectile payload in response to proximity with an activator contact, impact with the activator contact, by completion of an activator circuit, and/or other action that causes the dispersal mechanism to disperse the projectile payload. For example, the primer activator may be configured as primer igniter 424 and dispersal mechanism may be configured as primer charge 426. Additionally, activator contact may be configured as ignition pin 428. Primer igniter 424 and ignition pin 428 may be configured to cause primer charge 426 to combust and disperse projectile payload 410 from projectile housing 402.

An activator pin may be a component that is secured within a projectile that is configured to at least partially initiate dispersion of a projectile payload in response to the projectile contacting a target. For example, the activator pin may be configured to contact a dispersion mechanism within the projectile in response to contact with the target. The dispersion mechanism may be ignited, compressed, punctured, ruptured, and/or otherwise activated by contact with the activator pin. Additionally, the activator pin may be configured to remain substantially static relative to the projectile upon impact at the target such that the dispersion mechanism translating within the projectile contacts the activator pin. Alternatively, the activator pin may be configured to translate within the projectile, in response to the projectile impacting the target, to contact the dispersion mechanism. For example, the activator pin may be configured as ignition pin 428 that is contacted by the dispersion mechanism configured as the primer assembly 414 and initiates combustion of primer charge 426.

Primer igniter 424 and ignition pin 428 may be configured to collide upon impact of projectile 400 with a target. Primer securing ring 420 may release primer wall 422 in response to impact and permit primer wall 422, primer igniter 424, and/or primer charge 426 to translate towards primer pin 428. Primer igniter 424 may be associated with sufficient energy (e.g., kinetic energy) to contact primer pin 428 and/or compress primer charge 426 between primer igniter 424 and primer pin 428. Collision of primer igniter 424 and primer pin 428 may ignite primer charge 426. Alternatively, or in addition, compression of a portion of primer charge 426 by primer igniter 424 and primer pin 428 may ignite primer charge 426.

Primer pin 428 may be at least partially secured by second stopper 416 and/or impact absorber 428. For example, primer pin 428 may extend at least partially through second stopper 416 and/or impact absorber 418. Primer pin 428, second stopper 416, and/or impact absorber 418 may be configured to maintain primer pin 428 in a substantially static position before and after projectile 400 impacts the target. Additionally, second stopper 416 may comprise a pin channel that receives and/or secures primer pin 428. Further, impact absorber 418 may comprise a pin recess that receives and/or secures primer pin 428.

A projectile tip associated with a projectile may be configured to contact a target and decelerate the projectile. Additionally, the projectile tip may be configured to disperse an impact pressure of the projectile to mitigate harm and/or injury of the target. The projectile tip may be configured to compress, radially expand, and/or otherwise deform in response to impacting the target. The projectile tip may be configured as impact absorber 418, wherein impact absorber 418 is configured to decelerate projectile 400 and cause primer assembly 414 to activate.

In various embodiments, impact absorber 418 may be coupled to an end of housing 402. In various embodiments, impact absorber 418 may be partially received in housing channel 408. Impact absorber 418 may comprise a first portion disposed at least partially within projectile housing 402 and a second portion coupled to the first portion that is disposed external to housing 402. The second portion of impact absorber 418 may be configured to contact the target and receive the applied force that decelerates projectile 400. In various embodiments, the first portion of impact absorber 418, the second portion of impact absorber 418, and/or projectile housing 402 may be formed as and/or integrated into a single component. In various embodiments, a diameter of impact absorber 418 at a second end 406 of projectile 400 may be greater than a first diameter D1 of first end 404. In various embodiments, impact absorber 418 may be configured to compress, spread, and/or otherwise deform to mitigate the applied force of impact at the target. In particular, a travel velocity of projectile 400 may be decelerated over a duration that may be managed via the impact absorber 418. The impact absorber 418 may be configured to substantially resist deformation such that the deceleration of projectile 400 is accomplished over a short duration. The impact absorber 418 may be configured to deform such that the deceleration of projectile 400 is accomplished over a long duration. The duration length may be managed through the deformation ability of impact absorber 418 and may result in impact absorber 418 being configured such that the applied force satisfies the force threshold associated with primer assembly 414 and activates primer assembly 414.

In various embodiments, projectile 400 may comprise a plurality of portions that are combined to disperse the projectile payload in proximity to the target. For example, a first portion 432 of projectile 400 may comprise a projectile base that receives the launch force from the projectile launcher. Additionally, a second portion 434 of projectile 400 may comprise projectile payload 410 and/or other projectile payload contained by projectile 400. Further, a third portion 436 of projectile 400 may comprise a primer assembly 414 that is configured to activate based at least in part on impact absorber 408 contacting the target. A fourth portion 438 of projectile 400 may comprise a projectile tip that contacts the target and transfers an applied force to projectile 400. It should be noted that the plurality of portions may comprise duplicates of individual portions discussed above and one or more additional portions with other functionality.

In various embodiments, the first portion 432 (e.g., projectile base portion, base portion, etc.) may reference and/or comprise one or more components of projectile 400 discussed above. First portion 432 may comprise the projectile base, first end 404, first stopper 412, and other components of projectile 400. First portion 432 may be configured as a section of projectile 400 that receives the launch force and causes projectile 400 to be accelerated to a travel velocity towards the target. Additionally, and upon impact at the target, first portion 432 may be configured to at least partially direct the dispersal of projectile payload 410 and/or substantially preventing projectile payload 410 from exiting projectile 400 via first end 404.

In various embodiments, the second portion 434 (e.g., projectile payload portion, payload portion, storage portion, etc.) may reference and/or comprise one or more components of projectile 400 discussed above. Second portion 434 may comprise projectile payload 410, first stopper 412, an additional stopper, one or more faults associated with projectile housing 402, and/or other components for dispersing projectile payload 410. Second portion 434 may be configured as a section of projectile 400 that enables primer assembly 414 to disperse projectile payload 410 from projectile 400. Additionally, second portion 434 may be configured to substantially prevent projectile payload 410 from being dispersed prior to the projectile tip contacting the target. Further, second portion 434 may comprise one or more faults that are configured to enable dispersal of projectile payload 410 based at least in part on the one or more faults causing projectile housing 402 to rupture.

In various embodiments, second portion 434 may be configured to include a segment of projectile housing 402. For example, second portion 434 may comprise a segment of projectile housing 402 that is configured to contain projectile payload 410, preserve projectile payload 410, disperse projectile payload 410, and/or otherwise secure projectile payload 410 prior to contact with a target. Second portion 434 may be associated with the segment of projectile housing 402 that is configured to contain projectile payload 410. For example, projectile housing 402 may be formed to contain projectile payload 410 and substantially prevent degradation of projectile payload 410 prior to dispersal (e.g., fluid resistant material where projectile payload 410 is a fluid, substantially fluid tight seal between the segment of projectile housing 402 and a stopper where projectile payload 410 is a fluid, nonreactive material where projectile payload may be degraded if exposed to reactive materials, etc.). Additionally, the segment of projectile housing 402 may be formed to preserve projectile payload 410 during storage of projectile 400 and prior to dispersal proximate to the target (e.g., second portion 434 may be formed to substantially prevent projectile payload 410 from contacting air and substantially prevent oxidation of projectile payload 410). Further, the segment of projectile housing 402 may be formed to include one or more faults that enable dispersal of projectile payload from within second portion 434.

In various embodiments, the third portion 436 (e.g., primer assembly portion, primer portion, dispersing portion, etc.) may reference and/or comprise one or more components of projectile 400 discussed above. Third portion 436 may comprise primer assembly 414, second stopper 416, ignition pin 428, and/or other components for dispersing projectile payload 410. Third portion 436 may be configured as a section of projectile 400 that comprises primer assembly 414 and activates primer assembly 414 in response to the projectile tip contacting the target. Additionally, third portion 436 may be configured to substantially prevent primer assembly 414 from activating prior to the projectile tip contacting the target.

In various embodiments, third portion 436 may be configured to include a segment of projectile housing 402. The segment of projectile housing 402 may be configured to enable functionality of third portion 436 and/or may be shared with second portion 434. For example, third portion 436 may comprise a segment of projectile housing 402 that is configured to secure primer assembly 414 prior to contact with a target, enable activation of primer assembly 414 based at least in part on contacting the target, enable primer assembly 414 to disperse projectile payload 410 from within second portion 434 proximate to the target, and/or otherwise cause projectile payload 410 to be dispersed from within projectile 400. Third portion 436 may comprise a segment of projectile housing 402 that is configured to secure primer assembly 414 via primer securing ring 420. For example, the segment of projectile housing 402 may be configured to couple with primer securing ring 420 such that primer assembly 414 is substantially secured in a first position prior to contact with the target. Alternatively, or in addition, the segment of projectile housing 402 may comprise a channel that at least a portion of primer securing ring 420 extends within to substantially secure primer assembly in the first position. Further, the segment of projectile housing 402 may be configured to decouple and/or otherwise permit translation of primer securing ring 420 based at least on projectile 400 contacting the target. Similar to second portion 434, third portion 436 may be associated with a segment of projectile housing 402 that comprises one or more faults that enable projectile payload 410 to be dispersed from second segment 434.

In various embodiments, the fourth portion 438 (e.g., projectile tip portion, impact portion, contact portion, etc.) may reference and/or comprise one or more components of projectile 400 discussed above. Fourth portion 438 may comprise the projectile tip, second stopper 416, impact absorber 418, and/or other components of projectile 400. Fourth portion 438 may be configured as a projectile tip of projectile 400 that contacts the target and transfers an applied force to the projectile 400.

In various embodiments, the plurality of portions may be configured for functions that operate sequentially and/or in parallel to disperse projectile payload 410 in proximity to the target. Additionally, individual components of projectile 400 may be utilized by one or more portions of projectile 400 during dispersal of projectile payload 410. For example, second stopper 416 may be configured to secure ignition pin 428 and impact absorber 418, as depicted by FIG. 4. Second stopper 416 may be considered a component within third portion 436 as ignition pin 428 is contacted by and activates primer assembly 414. Additionally, second stopper 416 may be considered a component within fourth portion 438 as second stopper 416 is substantially secured by projectile housing 402. In response to impact absorber 418 contacting the target, second stopper 416 may receive at least a portion of the applied force of impact at the target that decelerates projectile 400. Accordingly, the plurality of portions may overlap such that individual components of projectile 400 are included in one or more portions. Alternatively, or in addition, individual portions may comprise duplicate components (e.g., second stopper 416 is configured as two stoppers so that a single hopper is associated with the third portion 436 and the fourth portion 438).

In various embodiments, the plurality of portions may be arranged to disperse projectile payload 410 from within projectile housing 402. Generally, the first portion 432 and the fourth portion 438 will be disposed at first end 404 and second end 406, respectively. Additionally, one or more second portions 434 and/or one or more third portions 436 may be included in an example arrangement. For example, a first end of an example projectile may be configured as a first portion 432. A second portion 434 may be disposed substantially adjacent to the first portion 432. A third portion 436 may be disposed substantially adjacent to the second portion 434. An additional second portion 434 may be disposed substantially adjacent to the third portion 436 opposite the second portion 434. A fourth portion 438 may be disposed adjacent to the additional second portion 434 substantially opposite the third portion 436 and be configured as the second end of the example projectile. Alternatively, the plurality of portions may be arranged as depicted by FIG. 4. Additionally, the plurality of portions may be arranged various combinations that enable primer assembly 414 to disperse projectile payload 410 from within projectile housing 402. Further, the plurality of portions may be arranged substantially coaxially to form the projectile 400 and/or other example projectile.

In various embodiments, and with reference to FIGS. 5A-5C, a projectile launcher 100 may be configured to launch projectile 400 at a target. Projectile 400 may be similar to, or have similar aspects and/or components with, any propulsion module discussed herein (e.g., one or more projectiles P, projectile 400 as depicted by FIG. 4, etc.). Projectile 400 may comprise a projectile housing 402, a first end 404, a second end 406, and an internal channel 408 that are substantially similar to those described with reference to FIG. 4. Similarly, primer assembly 414 may comprise primer securing ring 420, primer wall 422, primer igniter 424, and primer charge 426 that are substantially similar to those described with reference to FIG. 4.

It should be noted that projectile 400 may be associated with a series of projectile states based at least in part on whether projectile 400 has contacted the target. For example, a first state of projectile 400, as depicted by FIG. 5A, may be referenced as a rest state, a flight state, a launch state, an inactive state, an inert state, and/or other state where internal components of projectile 400 remain substantially static. Additionally, a second state of projectile 400, as depicted by FIG. 5B, may be referenced as an impact state, a transition state, an activating state, and/or other state where primer assembly 414 initiates dispersion of projectile payload 410. Further, a third state of projectile 400, as depicted by FIG. 5C, may be referenced as a dispersion state, a deployed state, an activated state, and/or other state where projectile payload 410 is dispersed in proximity to the target.

In the first state, projectile 400 may be disposed within a magazine of projectile launcher 100, within a cartridge, in flight to a target, in the process of being launched, and/or otherwise disassociated with a target surface 502. Additionally, the first state may be associated with internal housing surface 504 contacting external ring surface 506 and securing primer securing ring 420 relative to projectile housing 402. Securing primer securing ring 420 relative to projectile housing 402 may comprise primer assembly 414 remaining substantially static in position within projectile housing 402. Contact between internal housing surface 504 and external ring surface 506 may be further associated with a contact force that results from the primer securing ring 420 being disposed between projectile housing 402 and primer wall 422. Primer securing ring 420 may separate primer assembly 414 from an inner surface of projectile housing 402. Primer securing ring 420 may establish a spacing around an external circumference of primer assembly 414 and projectile housing 402. Additionally, primer securing ring 420 may be configured to fit within one or more channels associated with projectile housing 402 (e.g., a channel associated with the inner surface of projectile housing), primer assembly 414 (e.g., a channel associated with the external surface of primer wall 422), and/or other internal component of projectile 400. At least one of the external ring surface 506 and the internal ring surface 514 may be configured to permit translation of primer assembly 414 based at least on the force threshold being satisfied by an applied force (e.g., impact absorber 418 contacting the target). Further, an axial thickness of primer securing ring 420 (e.g., a thickness of primer securing ring 420 substantially parallel to a central axis of projectile 400) may be configured to provide a force threshold. For example, the axial thickness may be utilized to manage an amount of force that satisfies the force threshold and deform primer securing ring 420 to enable primer assembly to translate within third portion 436.

Primer securing ring 420 may be configured to have a rest thickness (e.g., a distance between external ring surface 506 and an internal ring surface 514 while primer securing ring 420 does not experience compressive force(s)) that is compressed when placed between projectile housing 402 and primer wall 422. Compression of primer securing ring 420 may be used to determine and/or establish a force threshold associated with activation of the primer assembly 414. For example, compression of primer securing ring 420 may result in the application of a contact force between at least internal housing surface 504 contacting external ring surface 506. The contact force may function as at least a portion of a normal force (e.g., a force perpendicular to internal housing surface 504 contacting external ring surface 506 that results from the two surfaces being pressed together). The contact force may correlate with the force threshold for initiating translation of primer assembly 414.

In various embodiments, the contact force may result in the force threshold comprising at least a static frictional force that is overcome to permit translation of primer assembly 414. In response to an applied force exceeding the static frictional force, and/or any additional forces securing primer assembly 414, primer assembly 414 may initiate translation within internal channel 408. Additionally, the applied force may be an external force that is applied to an object (e.g., an accelerating force or decelerating force) or an innate force that is associated with the object (e.g., inertia causing an object to resist changes in motion of the object). It should be noted that a decelerating force (e.g., impact absorber 418 causing projectile 400 to stop upon contacting target 502) applied by projectile housing 402 to primer assembly 414 may cause inertia of primer assembly 414 to overcome the force threshold and initiate translation of primer assembly 414 within internal channel 408.

In various embodiments, the first state may be associated with a first surface 508 of primer igniter 424 at least partially bounding projectile payload 410. First surface 508 may be a base of primer igniter 424. Additionally, projectile payload 410 may be bounded by at least first surface 508 and first stopper 412. In the first state, projectile payload 410 may substantially fill the portion of internal channel 408 between first surface 508 and first stopper 412. For example, projectile payload 410 may be a powder that is disposed, placed, packed, and/or otherwise contained by at least first surface 508 and first stopper 412. Further, first surface 508 and first stopper 412 may be configured to substantially prevent shifting of projectile payload 410 during flight of projectile 400, uneven dispersal of projectile payload 410, uneven distribution of projectile payload around a central axis A, and/or other inconsistencies that may impact performance of projectile 400.

In various embodiments, the first state may be associated with ring face 510 of primer securing ring 420 contacting and/or being disposed proximate to stop face 512 of ring stop 430. Ring face 510 may be configured to substantially prevent stop face 512 from translating towards second stopper 416. Additionally, ring face 510 may be configured to permit stop face 512 translated towards second stopper 416 under an applied force greater than the force threshold associated with the primer securing ring 420. For example, the force threshold may be associated with an applied force capable of causing ring face 510 and primer securing ring 420 to compress, break, deform, and/or otherwise permit stop face 512 and primer wall 422 to translate towards second stopper 416.

In various embodiments, stop face 512 may be configured to cause deformation of ring face 510 and primer securing ring 420. Stop face 512 may comprise a sloped face that applies the applied force to ring face 510, the applied force causing primer securing ring 420 to compress and/or deform. Where the applied force exceeds the force threshold, primer securing ring 420 may compress and/or deform to permit ring stop 430 to pass radially within internal ring surface 514. Alternatively, or in addition, the applied force may cause primer securing ring 420 to break, rupture, tear, and/or otherwise permanently deform. Independent of whether primer securing ring 420 compresses, deforms, permanently deforms, and/or otherwise is modified by the applied force, primer securing ring 420 may release primer assembly 414 in response the applied force causing stop face 512 translating into and/or past ring face 510.

In various embodiments, projectile 400 may transition from the first state illustrated by FIG. 5A to the second state illustrated by FIG. 5B in response to impact absorber 418 contacting target 502. Impact absorber 418 may contact target 502 and substantially arrest projectile 400 (e.g., substantially stopping the forward movement of projectile 400), wherein arresting projectile 400 comprises impact absorber 418 to apply a decelerating force to primer assembly 414. Impact absorber 418 may apply the decelerating force substantially parallel to central axis A from the second end 406 towards the first end 404. The decelerating force applied by impact absorber 418 may cause various components of projectile 400 to cease movement towards target 502. For example, the decelerating force applied by impact absorber 418 may substantially arrest at least projectile housing 402, first stopper 412, second stopper 416, and ignition pin 428.

In various embodiments, the decelerating force applied by impact absorber 418 may initiate translation of primer assembly 414 within internal channel 408. For example, and based at least on forward momentum and/or inertia of primer assembly 414 after launch of projectile 400, the decelerating force may cause external wall surface 516 to translate past internal ring surface 514. As noted above, an applied force (e.g., the decelerating force) exceeding the force threshold associated with primer securing ring 420 may cause ring face 510 to contact stop face 512, cause primer securing ring 420 to be compressed, and permit external wall surface 516 to translate past internal ring surface 514 towards second stopper 416. Additionally, the force threshold may be associated with at least a static frictional force and a compressive force that are overcome to permit translation of primer assembly 414.

In various embodiments, the decelerating force applied by impact absorber 418 may initiate translation of primer assembly 414 within internal channel 408. For example, and based at least on forward momentum of primer assembly 414 after launch of projectile 400, the decelerating force may cause external ring surface 506 to translate past internal housing surface 504. As noted above, an applied force (e.g., the decelerating force) exceeding the force threshold associated with primer securing ring 420 may cause primer assembly 414 to translate towards second stopper 416. Contact between ring face 510 and stop face 512 may cause external ring surface 506 to translate past internal housing surface 504 towards second stopper 416. Additionally, the force threshold may be associated with at least a static frictional force that is overcome to permit translation of primer assembly 414.

In response to the force threshold being overcome, primer assembly 414 (optionally with primer securing ring 420) may translate towards and contact ignition pin 428. Contact surface 518 of primer igniter 424 may be aligned with ignition pin 428 such that translation of primer assembly 414 causes contact surface 518 to contact ignition pin 428. Additionally, contact surface 518 and ignition pin 428 may be disposed within projectile housing 402 at and/or parallel to central axis A. Alignment to and/or parallel to central axis A may enable translation of primer assembly 414 to impact ignition pin 428. Further, contact surface 518 and ignition pin 428 may be configured to initiate combustion of primer charge 426, wherein combustion is initiated by contact surface 518 impacting ignition pin 428.

In various embodiments, FIG. 5B illustrates projectile 400 impacting target 502. As noted above, impact with target 502 causes impact absorber 418 to substantially arrest projectile 400, wherein deceleration of projectile 400 causes primer assembly 414 to initiate translation. Primer assembly 414, primer securing ring 420, and/or projectile housing 402 may be configured such that deceleration of projectile 400 causes primer assembly 414 to translate towards ignition pin 428. Translation of primer assembly 414 may be associated with sufficient kinetic energy that collision of contact surface 518 with ignition pin 428 activates primer charge 426 (e.g., ignites primer charge 426). More specifically, primer assembly 414 may be associated with sufficient kinetic energy to overcome an activation energy of primer charge 426. The activation energy may be associated with ignition of combustible material, puncturing an external wall of a cannister, compression of a pressure ignited material, and/or otherwise activating primer charge 426.

In various embodiments, projectile 400 may transition from the second state illustrated by FIG. 5B to the third state illustrated by FIG. 5C in response to contact surface 518 of primer assembly 414 colliding with and/or compressing primer charge 426 against ignition pin 428. For example, activation of primer charge 426 may initiate dispersion of projectile payload 410 from within projectile housing 402. The transition from the second state to the third state may be characterized by projectile housing 402 being opened and projectile payload 410 being released proximate to target 502. Additionally, opening of projectile housing 402 may include projectile housing 402 being separated into a plurality of projectile housing portions (e.g., projectile housing portion 520-1, projectile housing portion 520-2, projectile housing portion 520-3, projectile housing portion 520-n, etc.). Further, release of projectile payload 410 may result in a dispersed payload 522 proximate to target 502.

In various embodiments, a dispersion mechanism may be configured to disperse a projectile payload proximate to a target in response to a projectile contacting the target. For example, the dispersion mechanism may utilize chemical reactions, compressed fluids, mechanical drives, and/or other mechanisms to open (e.g., break, rupture, burst, shatter, etc.) a projectile housing and disperse the projectile payload. Additionally, the dispersion mechanism may activate in response to a collision, impact, and/or other contact with an activator pin and/or other activation device. The activation device may initiate the chemical reaction (e.g., ignites a combustible material or a pyrotechnic material such that expanding gas(es) disperse the projectile payload), puncture a container of pressurized fluid (e.g., punctures a compressed air cannister so that compressed air disperses the projectile payload), and/or otherwise cause the projectile payload to be dispersed.

Primer assembly 414 may be configured to initiate dispersion of projectile payload 410 via primer charge 426 igniting and outputting an amount of expanding gas(es) sufficient to rupture projectile housing 402. The ignition of primer charge 426 may release an amount of expanding gases, thermal energy, and/or other force capable of opening projectile housing 402. Additionally, ignition of primer charge 426 may cause the amount of expanding gases, thermal energy, and/or other force to disperse projectile payload 410 into dispersed payload 522. Alternatively, or in addition, dispersion of projectile payload 410 into dispersed payload 522 may be achieved by opening of projectile housing 402 via primer charge 426 in proximity to target 502. For example, opening of projectile housing 402 may cause powders, liquids, gases, and/or other payloads to splash, spread, spill, diffuse and/or otherwise disperse proximate to target 502.

Projectile housing 402 may be configured to separate into a plurality of projectile housing portions 520. For example, projectile housing 402 may be formed of a material that shatters, breaks, and/or otherwise separates into projectile housing portions 520-1 through 520-n in response to primer charge 426 activating. Activation of primer charge 426 may at least increase an internal pressure of projectile 400 from a rest pressure (e.g., substantially atmospheric pressure) to an activated pressure, wherein the activated pressure is greater than a pressure threshold associated with projectile housing 402. In response to the activated pressure exceeding the pressure threshold, projectile housing 402 may separate into the plurality of projectile housing portions 520-1 through 520-n.

In various embodiments, projectile housing 402 may be configured to separate into at least first housing portion 520-1, second housing portion 520-2, third housing portion 520-3, and/or additional housing portion 520-n. Projectile housing 402 may be formed, etched, scored, and/or otherwise modified such that first housing portion 520-1, second housing portion 520-2, third housing portion 520-3, and/or additional housing portion 520-n are separated by faults. Activation of primer assembly 414 causes projectile housing 402 to separate into the plurality of projectile housing portions 520-1 through 520-n, wherein projectile housing 402 opens along the faults. Further, primer charge 426 may be configured such that the activated pressure generated by primer charge 426 is sufficient to cause projectile housing 402 to open along the faults. It should be noted that faults may reference to weakened portions of projectile housing 402 created by formation, etching, scoring, and/or modification of projectile housing 402.

In various embodiments, projectile housing 402 may be configured to separate into at least first housing portion 520-1, second housing portion 520-2, third housing portion 520-3, and/or additional housing portion 520-n. Separation of projectile housing 402 into the plurality of housing portions 520-1 through 520-n and the number of housing portions formed may be at least partially dependent on primer charge 426. For example, primer charge 426 may generate the activated pressure sufficient to open projectile housing 402 and separate projectile housing 402 into the plurality of housing portions 520-1 through 520-n. Additionally, the activated pressure may form the plurality of housing portions 520-1 through 520-n at random (e.g., activated pressure rupturing and breaking projectile housing 402) and/or at pseudorandom (e.g., ruptures and breaks in projectile housing 402 tend to occur proximate to primer assembly 414). Projectile housing 402 may separate into the plurality of housing portions 520-1 through 520-n in response to distributed weak points associated with projectile housing 402 that occur during formation of projectile housing 402.

Primer assembly 414 may be configured to disperse projectile payload 410 into dispersed payload 522. As noted above, activation of primer charge 426 may cause an amount of expanding gases, thermal energy, and/or other force to be generated by primer assembly 414. The force generated by primer charge 426 may cause projectile payload 410 to disperse into dispersed payload 522 in addition to opening projectile housing 402. Additionally, ignition of primer charge 426 may cause the amount of expanding gases, thermal energy, and/or other force to disperse projectile payload 410 into dispersed payload 522. Alternatively, or in addition, dispersion of projectile payload 410 into dispersed payload 522 may be achieved by opening of projectile housing 402 via primer charge 426 in proximity to target 502. For example, opening of projectile housing 402 may cause powders, liquids, gases, and/or other payloads to splash, spread, spill, diffuse and/or otherwise disperse proximate to target 502.

In various embodiments, projectile 400 may be launched from projectile launcher 100 towards target 502 in the first state depicted by FIG. 5A. The launch force may be applied by projectile launcher 100 to at least first end 406 of projectile 400 and/or first stopper 412. The launch force may accelerate projectile 400 to a flight velocity. It should be noted that the launch force may be applied to at least one of projectile housing 402, first end 406, and/or first stopper 412 via a mechanical component (e.g., a puncher, piston, and/or other mechanical drive), an expanding fluid (e.g., compressed gas being released, chemical reaction emitting expanding gases, etc.), and/or other launch components.

In various embodiments, and as depicted by FIG. 5A, the internal components of projectile 400 may remain substantially static within internal channel 408. Primer securing ring 420 may remain static relative to projectile housing 402 based at least in part on contact between internal housing surface 504 and external ring surface 506. Similarly, primer assembly 414 may remain static relative to projectile housing 402 based at least in part on contact between ring face 510 and stop face 512. Additionally, primer assembly 414 may remain static relative to projectile housing based at least on part on contact between first surface 508 and projectile payload 410 (e.g., primer assembly is substantially prevented from moving toward first stopper 412 by projectile payload 410).

In various embodiments, and as depicted by FIG. 5B, projectile 400 may contact target 502 after launch by projectile launcher 100. Contact with target 502 may substantially arrest movement of projectile housing 402, first stopper 412, second stopper 416, impact absorber 418, and ignition pin 428. Additionally, primer securing ring 420 may compress, break, stretch, and/or otherwise deform such that primer assembly 414 is released. Primer assembly 414 may translate within internal channel such that primer igniter 424 and/or primer charger 426 collide with ignition pin 428, wherein collision with ignition pin 428 ignites and/or otherwise activates primer charger 426. Alternatively, primer securing ring 420 may translate within internal channel 408 with primer assembly 414, wherein ring external surface 506 translates substantially adjacent to internal housing surface 504 to permit translation of primer assembly 414.

In various embodiments, an as depicted by FIG. 5C, projectile payload 410 may be released and/or dispersed from within projectile 400. Activation of primer charge 426 may cause projectile housing 402 to open, releasing and/or dispersing projectile payload proximate to target 502. Alternatively, or in addition, activation of primer charge 426 may cause first stopper 412 to exit first end 404 and second stopper 416 to exit second end 406, wherein first stopper 412 and second stopper 416 exiting internal channel 408 may cause projectile payload 410 to be released and/or dispersed proximate to target 502. Accordingly, projectile 400 may be launched by projectile launcher 100, impact target 502, and release projectile payload 410 to create dispersed payload 522 proximate to target 502.

In various embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 6, projectile launcher 100 may be configured to launch a projectile 600. Projectile 600 may be similar to, or have similar aspects and/or components with, any projectile discussed herein (e.g., one or more projectiles P, projectile 400, etc.). It should be noted that various components of projectile 600 may also be similar to, or have similar aspects and/or subcomponents with, the various components of projectile 400. For example, and similar to projectile 400, projectile 600 may comprise a projectile housing, a first end, a second end, and an internal channel. The first end of projectile 600 may be configured to receive a launch force from projectile launcher 100. The second end of projectile 600 may be configured to impact a target after launch and cause projectile payload 620 to be dispersed proximate to the target. Additionally, projectile housing 602 may secure first stopper 604, primer assembly 608, activation pin 616, second stopper 618, and/or impact absorber 622. It should be noted that any of the one or more components of projectile 600 may be located in any suitable position within, or external to, projectile housing 602. Primer assembly 608 may be similar to, or have similar aspects and/or components with, primer assembly 414. Primer assembly 608 may be associated with primer securing ring 606 and comprise primer wall 610, primer activator 612, and primer charge 614.

A first end of projectile 600 may contain first stopper 604, primer securing ring 606, primer assembly 608, activation pin 616, and second stopper 618. First stopper 604 may be permanently and/or removably coupled to an internal surface of projectile housing 602 to substantially prevent a launch force from activating primer assembly 608. For example, first stopper 604 may be configured to remain substantially static relative to projectile housing 602 upon launch of projectile 600 from projectile launcher 100. Alternatively, or in addition, first stopper 604 may be integrated with projectile housing 602. Further, first stopper 604 may be coupled with projectile housing 602 to form a substantially fluid-tight seal.

The first end of projectile 600 may be configured such that activation of primer assembly 608 causes projectile payload 620 to be deployed from projectile 600. For example, and in response to projectile 600 impacting a target, primer assembly 608 may translate within projectile housing 602 and collide with activation pin 616. Primer activator 612 may collide with activator pin 616 and cause primer charge 614 to deploy and/or disperse projectile payload 620 from within projectile housing 602. In some embodiments, first stopper 604 and second stopper 618 may be secured within projectile housing 602 such that projectile housing 602 opens to permit deployment of projectile payload 620. Alternatively, or in addition, first stopper 604 may be secured within projectile housing 602 such that at least one of activator pin 616 and/or second stopper 618 is released, dislodged, moved, and/or decoupled within projectile housing 602 to at least partially cause projectile payload 620 to be deployed and/or dispersed.

In various embodiments, second stopper 618 may be coupled with, attached to, and/or otherwise secured by projectile housing 602. Second stopper 618 may be secured by projectile housing 602 such that primer assembly 608 may translate within projectile housing 602 and collide with activator pin such that primer charge 614 is activated. Primer charge 614 may be associated with an activation threshold that is associated with an amount of energy for activating primer charge 614, the amount of energy being provided by primer activator 612 contacting activator pin 616, primer activator 612 compressing primer charge 614 against activator pin 616, and/or otherwise applying kinetic energy from primer assembly 608 to primer charge 614. Second stopper 618 may be configured to remain secured by projectile housing 602 and enable primer charge 614 to be activated by collision of primer assembly 608 and activator pin 616. It should be noted that second stopper 618 may be configured to remain substantially static under initial contact of primer assembly 608 and activator pin 616.

In various embodiments, second stopper 618 may be coupled with, attached to, and/or otherwise secured by projectile housing 602. Second stopper 618 may be secured by projectile housing 602 such that primer assembly 608 may translate within projectile housing 602 and collide with activator pin 616 such that primer charge 614 is activated. Primer charge 614 may be associated with an activation threshold that is associated with an amount of energy for activating primer charge 614, the amount of energy being provided by primer activator 612 contacting activator pin 616, primer activator 612 compressing primer charge 614 against activator pin 616, and/or otherwise applying kinetic energy from primer assembly 608 to primer charge 614. Second stopper 618 may be configured to remain secured by projectile housing 602 and enable primer charge 614 to be activated by collision of primer assembly 608 and activator pin 616. It should be noted that second stopper 618 may be configured to remain substantially static under initial contact of primer assembly 608 and activator pin 616.

In various embodiments, second stopper 618 may secure activator pin 616. For example, activator pin 616 may be coupled with, attached to, and/or otherwise secured within a recess associated with second stopper 618. Similar to the discussion above, activator pin 616 may be secured by second stopper to contact primer activator 612 during translation of primer assembly 608. Activator pin 616 may be configured to remain secured by second stopper 618 and collide with primer activator 612. It should be noted that activator pin 616 may be configured to remain substantially static under initial contact of primer activator 612. Alternatively, projectile housing 602 may secure activator pin 616 during translation of primer assembly 608 to collide with primer activator 612. Activator pin 616 and primer activator 612 may be disposed co-axially with projectile housing 602 or parallel to a central axis of projectile housing 602.

In various embodiments, second stopper 618 may be removably secured within projectile housing 602. As noted above, second stopper 618 may be secured such that primer charge 614 is activated in response to primer activator 612 contacting activator pin 616. Additionally, second stopper 618 may be secured within projectile housing 602 such that the activation of primer charge 614 dislodges second stopper 618. For example, activation of primer charge 614 may cause primer charge 614 to release an amount of expanding gases. The expanding gases may exert pressure on second stopper 618 sufficient to dislodge second stopper 618 from a first stopper position secured by projectile housing 602. Further, the expanding gases may exert pressure on projectile payload 620 in contact via pressure applied to second stopper 618.

In various embodiments, activator pin 616 may be removably secured by at least one of projectile housing 602 and/or second stopper 618. As noted above, activator pin 616 may be secured such that primer activator 612 may contact activator pin 616 to activate primer charge 614. Additionally, activator pin 616 may be dislodged after activation of primer charge 614 by pressure exerted by expanding gases released by primer charge 614. The expanding gases may exert pressure on activator pin 616 sufficient to dislodge activator pin 616 from a first pin position.

In various embodiments, expanding gases (or another pressure source) emitted by primer charge 614 may exert pressure upon at least one of activator pin 616 and/or second stopper 618 sufficient to deploy projectile payload 620 from projectile housing 602. As noted above, pressure exerted by primer charge 614 may dislodge, decouple, detach, and/or otherwise move activator pin 616 and/or second stopper 618 within projectile housing 602. Translation of activator pin 616 and/or second stopper 618 may cause projectile payload to rupture, open, and/or otherwise deploy from withing projectile housing 602. Alternatively, or in addition, activator pin 616 and/or second stopper 618 may be displaced within projectile housing 602 such that expanding gases emitted by primer charge 614 apply pressure directly to projectile payload 620.

In various embodiments, and independent of whether pressure and/or force is applied directly or indirectly to projectile payload 620, primer charge 614 may cause housing fault 624 to rupture, break, shatter, dislodge, and/or otherwise open to deploy projectile payload 620. In particular, projectile payload 620 may be a fluid or a solid with fluid-like properties (e.g., a powdered solid) such that pressure applied by primer charge 614 exerts pressure on at least projectile housing 602, impact absorber 622, and/or housing fault 624. Housing fault 624 may be a portion of projectile housing 602 that is configured to have a failure threshold associated with an applied pressure and/or force less than that of projectile housing 602 and/or impact absorber 622. Primer charge 614 may apply a pressure, optionally via projectile payload 620, sufficient to exceed the failure threshold of housing fault 624. In response, housing fault 624 may open and permit projectile payload 620 to be deployed from projectile 600 by primer charge 614.

In various embodiments, and with reference to FIGS. 7A-7C, projectile 600 may be configured to deploy projectile payload 620 from within projectile housing 602 in response to impact absorber 622 contacting target 702. Primer assembly 608 may be configured to deploy projectile payload 620 by dislodging activator pin 616 from a stopper channel 704, dislodging second stopper 618, opening projectile housing 602, and/or otherwise applying a deploying force to projectile payload 620.

In various embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 7A, primer assembly 608 may be configured to deploy, disperse, and/or otherwise release projectile payload 620 from within projectile housing 602 into dispersed payload 706. As noted above, primer assembly 608 may be configured to activate in response to impact absorber 622 contacting target 702. Activation of primer assembly 608 may cause a deployment force to be applied to at least one of projectile housing 602, activation pin 616, second stopper 618, and/or projectile payload 620. The deployment force may dislodge activator pin 616 from second stopper 618 and cause projectile payload 620 to be dispersed into dispersed payload 706. Further, the deployment force, when applied to at least the projectile payload 620, may cause a portion of projectile housing 602 (e.g., housing fault 624) to open. The deployment force may create one or more housing openings 708 to enable deployment of dispersed payload 706.

In various embodiments, and as noted above, one or more housing openings 708 may be created by the deployment force opening one or more portions of projectile housing 602. For example, the one or more portions of projectile housing 602 may be weakened such that the deployment force may open one or more housing openings 708 for deployment of dispersed payload 706 proximate to target 702. As projectile 600 (and other projectiles discussed herein) are formed to deliver projectile payloads for an effect upon target 702, projectile housing 602 and primer assembly 608 may be formed to mitigate ineffective deployment of dispersed payload 706 (e.g., deployment of dispersed payload 706 away from target 702). Alternatively, or in addition, projectile 600 and components of projectile 600 may be formed to cause dispersed payload 706 to contact at least a portion of the target 702. For example, dispersed payload 706 may be deployed from the one or more housing openings 708 at least radially outward from projectile 600.

In various embodiments, one or more housing faults 624 may be located proximate to impact absorber 622 and/or a projectile tip. Alternatively, or in addition, one or more housing faults 624 may be disposed at one or more locations on projectile housing 602 (e.g., housing faults may be formed proximate to the projectile tip, the projectile base, and/or elsewhere on the projectile housing 602). Accordingly, the deployment force may create one or more housing openings 708 at a set of one or more housing faults 624. For example, one or more housing faults 624 may be disposed proximate to impact absorber 622. In response to impacting target 702, primer assembly 608 may generate the deployment force and open one or more housing faults 624 may open to form one or more housing openings 708. Additionally, the deployment force may disperse projectile payload 620 to form dispersed payload 706 proximate to and/or contacting target 702.

In various embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 7B, primer assembly 608 may be configured to activate and deploy, disperse, and/or otherwise release projectile payload 620 from within projectile housing 602 into dispersed payload 706. Activation of primer assembly 608 may cause a deployment force to be applied to at least one of projectile housing 602, activation pin 616, second stopper 618, projectile payload 620, and/or impact absorber 622. The deployment force may dislodge activator pin 616 from second stopper 618. Alternatively, the deployment force may dislodge activator pin 616 and second stopper 618 from projectile housing 602. Additionally, and based at least in part on activator pin 616 and/or second stopper 618 being dislodged, the deployment force may cause projectile payload 620 to be deployed to form dispersed payload 706. Further, and based at least in part on activator pin 616 and/or second stopper 618 being dislodged, the deployment force may cause projectile housing 602 to separate from impact absorber 622. The deployment force may create opened end 710 to enable deployment of dispersed payload 706.

In various embodiments, the deployment force may cause impact absorber 622 to be separated from projectile housing 602 to enable deployment of projectile payload 620. For example, and at a first time (e.g., during flight of projectile 600), projectile housing 602 and impact absorber 622 may be coupled at external absorber surface 712 and housing internal surface 714. Additionally, and at a second time, the deployment force may be applied to at least impact absorber 622 such that external absorber surface 712 is decoupled from housing internal surface 714. Decoupling external absorber surface 712 from housing internal surface 714 may enable the deployment force to separate impact absorber 622 from projectile housing 602 and projectile payload 620 to be deployed from opened end 710.

External absorber surface 712 and housing internal surface 714 may be removably coupled prior to launch from projectile launcher 100, during launch from projectile launcher 100, and during a flight of projectile 600 between projectile launcher 100 and target 702. External absorber surface 712 and housing internal surface 714 may be coupled via mechanical couplings (e.g., threading, ridges, latches, etc.), adhesives, and/or other coupling mechanisms. Additionally, external absorber surface 712 and housing internal surface 714 may be decoupled by an applied force satisfying a force threshold. For example, impact absorber 622 may be dislodged from projectile housing 602 in response to the deployment force, applied by primer assembly 608, exceeds the force threshold and decouples external absorber surface 712 from housing internal surface 714.

In various embodiments, decoupling external absorber surface 712 from housing internal surface 714 may remove impact absorber 622 from projectile housing 602. Removal of impact absorber 622 from projectile housing 602 may enable projectile payload 620 to be deployed from within projectile housing 602 via open end 710. It should be noted that while open end 710 refers to the projectile tip after impact absorber 622 has been removed, an open end may refer to first end 404 after removal of first stopper 412, second end 406 after removal of second stopper 416, a projectile base after one or more stoppers have been removed, and/or a projectile tip after one or more stoppers have been removed. Additionally, removal of impact absorber 622 (and/or one or more stoppers disposed within projectile housing 602) may reference external absorber surface 712 translating within internal housing surface 714 such that at least a portion of impact absorber 622 is no longer radially within projectile housing 602.

In various embodiments, projectile payload 620 may be deployed from within projectile housing 602 via open end 710. For example, and after impact absorber 622 has been separated and/or removed from projectile housing 602, the deployment force may cause projectile payload 620 to translate within projectile housing 602 and through open end 710. Translation of projectile payload 620 through open end 710 may form dispersed payload 706.

In various embodiments, primer assembly 608 may apply the deployment force to first stopper 604, activator pin 616, second stopper 618, and/or other components of projectile 600. The deployment force may be configured to cause at least impact absorber and projectile payload 620 to be deployed from within projectile housing 602. The deployment force may be configured to cause projectile housing 602 to translate away from target 702 such that impact absorber 622 is separated from projectile housing 602. Additionally, the deployment force may be applied to projectile payload 620 and impact absorber 622 via second stopper 618. Where projectile payload 620 and impact absorber 622 are substantially prevented from movement by target 702, the deployment force may be applied to projectile housing 602 via first stopper 604. Application of the deployment force to first stopper may initiate translation of projectile housing 602 away from target 702. Translation of projectile housing 602 away from target 702 may cause impact absorber 622 to be separated from projectile housing 602 and deploy projectile payload 620 into dispersed payload 706.

In various embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 7C, primer assembly 608 may be configured to activate and rupture projectile housing 602 to deploy projectile payload 620 into dispersed payload 706. The deployment force may cause projectile housing 602 to rupture and/or otherwise open to release projectile payload 620. As noted above, with reference to FIGS. 5A-5C, rupturing projectile housing 602 may cause projectile housing 602 to split, break, and/or otherwise separate into one or more housing portions 716. Separation of projectile housing 602 into one or more housing portions 716 may further cause projectile payload to be dispersed and/or deployed to form dispersed payload 706.

Projectile housing 602, first stopper 604, activator pin 616, and/or second stopper 618 may be configured such that the deployment force causes projectile housing 602 to rupture. For example, first stopper 604 and second stopper 618 may be secured within projectile housing 602 such that activation of primer assembly 608 causes projectile housing 602 to separate into housing portions 716. Additionally, activation of primer assembly 608 may generate the deployment force via expanding gases that are substantially contained within projectile housing 602 by first stopper 604 and second stopper 618. Under the deployment force generated by the primer assembly 608, projectile housing 602 may rupture to permit the expanding gases to be released and alleviate pressure buildup associated with the deployment force. Release of the expanding gases may further cause projectile payload 620 to be deployed into dispersed payload 706.

In various embodiments, a projectile may be formed to be launched from a projectile launcher. The projectile may comprise a projectile housing, a projectile payload, a primer assembly, and a primer activator. The projectile housing may extend between a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The projectile housing may define a housing channel extending at least partially between the first end and the second end. Additionally, the projectile payload may be disposed within the housing channel of the projectile housing. Similarly, the primer assembly may be disposed within the housing channel. The primer assembly may be comprised of a primer charge, the primer charge configured to deploy the projectile payload from the projectile housing. The primer activator may be disposed within the housing channel and configured to activate the primer charge based at least in part on the first end of the projectile contacting a target.

In various embodiments, the projectile may be launched from the projectile launcher by a launch force towards the target to disperse the projectile payload proximate to the target. For example, the first end of the projectile may be an impact absorber that contacts the target and disperses an impact force on the target. Similarly, the second end of the projectile may receive a launch force from the projectile launcher, the launch force causing the impact absorber to contact the target. The primer assembly may be configured to translate from a first position to a second position based at least in part on the first end contacting the target. It should be noted that the first position of the primer assembly is associated with a primer lock securing the primer assembly within the housing channel. Additionally, the second position of the primer assembly may be associated with the primer charge being activated. Further, the primer lock may be associated with a release threshold that enables the primer assembly to translate from the first position to the second position.

In various embodiments, the primer lock may transition from a first state to a second state based at least on the primer assembly satisfying a release threshold. The first state of the primer lock may secure the primer assembly in the first position. The second state of the primer lock may permit the primer assembly to translate from the first position to the second position. The release threshold may be satisfied by a decelerating force generated by the first end contacting the target. Additionally, the primer assembly may translate from the first position associated with the first state to the second position based at least in part on the projectile housing being substantially arrested by contact between the first end and the target. For example, the primer assembly may be associated with and/or receive an amount of kinetic energy based at least in part on the launch force. Further, the amount of kinetic energy may cause the primer assembly to translate from the first position to the second position and activate the primer charge in the second position. The release threshold may be satisfied by the amount of kinetic energy in response to the first end contacting the target and cause the primer lock to transition from the first state to the second state. For example, the primer lock may be configured as a securing ring disposed radially outside the primer assembly that deforms, based at least in part on the release threshold being satisfied, to permit translation of the primer assembly radially within the securing ring.

In various embodiments, the primer assembly may comprise a primer activator, wherein the primer assembly translates from a first position to a second position such that the primer activator activates the primer charge in the second position. Translation of the primer assembly from the first position to the second position may cause the primer activator to collide with an activation pin to ignite the primer charge. It should be noted that activation of the primer charge may rupture at least a portion of the projectile housing to deploy the projectile payload. Alternatively, or in addition, activation of the primer charge dislodges a projectile stopper from the projectile housing to deploy the projectile payload. Additionally, the primer charge may be configured as an amount of pyrotechnic material that generates a deployment force that, when applied to the projectile payload, causes the projectile payload to be deployed from within the projectile housing.

In various embodiments, the projectile may be comprised of one or more portions that are arranged to form the projectile. For example, a first portion may comprise the first end of the projectile, wherein the first portion is a projectile base that receives a launch force and applies the launch force to at least the projectile housing. Additionally, a second portion may comprise the projectile payload, the second portion containing the projectile payload at a first time and permitting the projectile payload to be dispersed at a second time. Further, a third portion may comprise the primer assembly, the third portion containing primer assembly at a first position at the first time and at a second position at the second time. Similarly, a fourth portion may comprise the second end, the fourth portion comprising an impact absorber that causes the primer assembly to translate within the third portion from the first position to the second position. It should be noted that the projectile may comprise one or more additional portions that are configured to further augment the projectile. The first portion may be disposed at the first end of the projectile, the second portion may be disposed substantially adjacent to the first portion, the third portion may be disposed substantially adjacent to the second portion opposite the first portion, and the fourth portion may be disposed substantially adjacent to the third portion opposite the second portion. Alternatively, the first portion may be disposed at the first end, the third portion is disposed substantially adjacent to the first portion, the second portion is disposed substantially adjacent to the third portion opposite the first portion, and the fourth portion is disposed substantially adjacent to the second portion opposite the third portion. It should be noted that the projectile may comprise one or more of each the above portions (e.g., a second portion may be disposed between the first portion and the third portion and an additional second portion may be disposed between the third portion and the fourth portion).

In various embodiments, the projectile housing may comprise one or more faults that enable the primer assembly to disperse the projectile payload from within the projectile housing. Activation of the primer assembly may rupture the projectile housing at the one or more faults and may cause the projectile housing to break into one or more projectile housing portions. The primer charge may cause the projectile housing to split along the one or more faults and form the one or more projectile housing portions. Alternatively, or in addition, one or more faults may be disposed proximate to the second end of the projectile and enable the projectile payload to be dispersed from within the projectile housing proximate to the target via one or more openings, in the projectile housing, formed at the one or more faults.

In various embodiments, a primer portion of a projectile may be configured to deploy a payload from a projectile. The primer portion may comprise a primer charge, a primer activator, a primer wall, and a primer lock. The primer charge may be associated with a rest state and an active state, the active state causing the primer charge to rupture the projectile and deploy the payload from within the projectile. The primer activator may be configured to utilize an amount of kinetic energy to transition the primer charge from the rest state to the active state. The primer wall may be configured to translate between a first position and a second position. Additionally, the primer charge may be secured substantially adjacent to primer activator by the primer wall. Further, the first position may be associated with the rest state and the second position may be associated with the active state. The primer lock may be disposed between the primer wall and a projectile housing and selectively couple the primer wall to the projectile housing. Further, the primer lock may couple with the primer wall in the first position and decouple from the primer wall and/or the projectile housing to permit translation from the first position to the second position.

In various embodiments, the primer lock may secure the primer wall in the first position at a first time and permits the primer wall to translate to the second position at a second time. The primer lock may permit the primer wall to translate from the first position to the second position based at least in part on the projectile impacting a target. Additionally, the primer lock may be configured as a friction lock that secures the primer wall in the first position via contact with the primer wall and a housing of the projectile. Further, the primer lock may be associated with a force threshold that causes the primer lock to permit translation of the primer wall based at least on the amount of kinetic energy exceeding the force threshold.

In various embodiments, an amount of kinetic energy may be associated with at least the primer activator during a flight of the projectile. The amount of kinetic energy may be applied to the primer charge by the primer activator based at least in part on the projectile impacting a target, wherein application of the amount of kinetic energy may cause the primer charge to transition from the rest state to the active state. Based at least on the primer charge being activated, the primer charge may rupture the projectile housing by creating one or more openings in the projectile housing proximate to a target. Additionally, the primer charge, in the active state, may generate a dispersal force that causes the payload to disperse proximate to the target through the one or more openings. Alternatively, or in addition, the primer charge may cause an impact absorber associated with the projectile to be dislodged from the projectile housing and form an open end of the projectile housing, Further, the primer charge, in the active state, may generate a dispersal force that causes the payload to disperse through the open end.

In various embodiments, the primer wall may comprise a lock stop that substantially prevents translation from the first position to the second position. The lock stop may permit translation from the first position to the second position based at least in part on the lock stop receiving the amount of kinetic energy.

In various embodiments, a projectile launcher may be configured to launch a projectile and cause a projectile payload to be deployed, dispersed, and/or otherwise released proximate to the target. For example, the projectile launcher may launch the projectile towards a target, the projectile being associated with an amount of kinetic energy and a flight velocity. The projectile launcher may cause the projectile to impact the target, wherein an impact absorber of the projectile substantially arrests the flight velocity of the projectile. Additionally, the projectile launcher may cause, based at least on the amount of kinetic energy, a primer assembly of the projectile to activate. Further, the projectile launcher may cause a projectile payload to be dispersed proximate to the target, wherein activation of the primer assembly disperses the projectile payload from the projectile.

In various embodiments, the projectile launcher may cause the primer assembly to activate, wherein activation of the primer assembly may cause the primer assembly to translate between a first position and a second position within the projectile. Activation of primer assembly may cause the primer assembly to contact an activation pin and emit an amount of gas that disperses the projectile payload from within the projectile. Additionally, the amount of kinetic energy provided during launch of the projectile may cause the primer assembly to translate within the projectile based at least on the impact absorber substantially arresting the flight velocity. The amount of kinetic energy may result in a collision and/or contact between the primer assembly and an activation pin. The primer assembly and the activator pin may contact in the second position such that the primer assembly releases an amount of gas that disperses the projectile payload. It should be noted that the amount of kinetic energy provided by the projectile launcher may be determined to cause the primer assembly to translate from the first position to the second position in response to the impact absorber substantially arresting the projectile. Similarly, the amount of kinetic energy provided by the projectile launcher may be determined to activate the primer assembly in the second position.

In various embodiments, the projectile launcher may cause, based at least in part on the amount of kinetic energy provided during launch of the projectile, the primer assembly to activate and emit an amount of gas. Additionally, the projectile launcher may cause, based at least in part on the amount of gas released by the primer assembly, a projectile housing to rupture and disperse the projectile payload. Alternatively, or in addition, the primer assembly may activate and generate a dispersal force that causes the projectile payload to be dispersed from within the projectile housing and/or ruptures the projectile housing. Rupture of the projectile housing may cause the projectile housing to split into, break into, and/or otherwise form one or more projectile housing portions. Alternatively, rupture of the projectile housing may form one or more openings in projectile housing that enables the projectile payload to be dispersed proximate to the target.

In various embodiments, a deployment of a projectile from a projectile launcher may cause a projectile payload to be dispersed proximate to a target of the projectile launcher. For example, the projectile may receive a launch force from a propulsion module of a projectile launcher. The projectile may traverse and/or travel a distance towards the target at a flight velocity. Additionally, the projectile may contact the target with an impact absorber, wherein the impact absorber substantially arrests a projectile housing of the projectile. Further, the projectile impacting the target may cause, based at least in part on the impact absorber arresting the projectile housing, a primer assembly to translate from a first position to a second position. Translation from the first position to the second position may activate the primer assembly. In response to activation of the primer assembly, a projectile payload may be dispersed proximate to the target.

In various embodiments, the primer assembly may translate from the first position to a second position. Translation of the primer assembly within the projectile may cause the primer assembly in the second position to contact an activation pin. In response to the primer assembly contacting the activation pin, the primer assembly may apply a dispersal force to the projectile payload. For example, contact between the primer assembly and the activation pin may ignite a primer charge and causes the primer charge to generate the dispersal force. Alternatively, or in addition, contact between the primer assembly and the activation pin converts an amount of kinetic energy associated with the flight velocity of the projectile into an amount of activation energy for the primer charge. The dispersal force may be applied to the projectile housing such that the dispersal force creates one or more housing openings associated with the projectile housing. Additionally, the dispersal force may cause the projectile payload to be dispersed via the one or more housing openings. Further, the dispersal force may be applied to an internal stopper to decouple the internal stopper from the projectile housing. The dispersal force may be applied to the projectile payload via the internal stopper and cause the projectile payload to exit the projectile housing.

In various embodiments, the launch force may be applied to an internal stopper coupled to the projectile housing such that the propulsion module causes at least the projectile housing to accelerate from a rest state to the flight velocity. The flight velocity may be associated with an amount of kinetic energy that satisfies an activation threshold associated with the primer assembly. Additionally, the activation threshold may be associated with an amount of energy that causes the primer assembly to translate from the first position to the second position. Further, the activation threshold may be associated with an additional amount of energy that causes the projectile payload to be dispersed.

In various embodiments, the impact absorber may apply a decelerating force to arrest the projectile housing. Additionally, the impact absorber, based at least in part on application of the decelerating force, may cause the primer assembly to translate from the first position to the second position. Further, a primer lock may secure the primer assembly in the first position at a first time, the first time associated with the projectile housing having the flight velocity. The primer lock may decouple from the primer assembly to permit translation from the first position to the second position at a second time, the second time associated with the impact absorber arresting the projectile housing.

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described herein with regard to specific embodiments. Furthermore, the connecting lines shown in the various figures contained herein are intended to represent exemplary functional relationships and/or physical couplings between the various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may be present in a practical system. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of the disclosures. The scope of the disclosure is accordingly to be limited by nothing other than the appended claims and their legal equivalents, in which reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless explicitly so stated, but rather “one or more.” Moreover, where a phrase similar to “at least one of A, B, or C” is used in the claims, it is intended that the phrase be interpreted to mean that A alone may be present in an embodiment, B alone may be present in an embodiment, C alone may be present in an embodiment, or that any combination of the elements A, B, and C may be present in a single embodiment; for example, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C.

Systems, methods, and apparatus are provided herein. In the detailed description herein, references to “various embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. After reading the description, it will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art(s) how to implement the disclosure in alternative embodiments. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element is intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for.” As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.