ASSEMBLY FOR DEPLOYMENT OF CALTROP SYSTEMS

Abstract

A system for launching a caltrop line including one or more caltrops at a target, such as a vehicle, from a distance. The system may include a launcher system and a deployment system. The deployment system may include a tug coupled to a deployment cord including the caltrop line. In some cases, the launcher system may propel or launch the tug causing the tug to pull the caltrop line at the target.

Claims

1. An assembly for deployment of caltrops comprising: a launcher system, the launcher system comprising a launch tube and a trigger mechanism; and a caltrop system releasably coupled to the launcher system, the caltrop system including a deployment cord and a deployment tube, the deployment cord configured to be propelled at a target from the launcher system in response to an activation of the trigger mechanism.

2. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of claim 1, wherein the deployment cord further comprises a tug configured to be received into the launch tube.

3. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of claim 2, wherein the deployment cord further comprises: a caltrop line having a first end coupled to the tug and a second end, the caltrop line including one or more caltrops; a breakaway line coupled to the second end of the caltrop line at a first end and having a second end, the breakaway line configured to decouple from the caltrop line in response to a force being applied to the caltrop line; and a ribbon line coupled to the second end of the breakaway line at a first end and having a second.

4. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of claim 3, wherein the caltrop line is formed from approximately an inch thick Kevlar rope.

5. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of claim 3, wherein: the caltrop line is between approximately 7 feet and approximately 11 feet in length; and the caltrop line includes between 6 and 10 caltrops.

6. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of claim 3, wherein the caltrop line is formed from approximately an inch thick Kevlar rope.

7. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of claim 3, wherein: the breakaway line is formed from between approximately 50-pound test line and approximately 150-pound test line; and the breakaway line is between approximately 2 inches and approximately 10 inches in length.

8. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of claim 3, wherein: the ribbon line is formed from approximately an inch thick Kevlar rope; and the ribbon line is between approximately 4 feet and approximately 120 feet in length.

9. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of claim 3, wherein: the deployment tube comprises a tubular portion, a front cap releasably coupled to the tubular portion at a first end, and an end cap fixedly coupled to the tubular portion at a second end opposite the first end, the end cap including a reel bracket; and the ribbon line is wound around a spool, the spool is releasably coupled to the reel bracket via a temporary tie.

10. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of claim 1, further comprising a bracket system, the bracket system including: an upper bracket having a first aperture and forming an upper half of a second aperture, the first aperture configured to receive and couple to the launch tube of the launcher system; and a lower bracket forming the second half to the second aperture, the lower bracket coupled to the upper bracket via a hinge and a clasp system, the second aperture to releasably couple to the deployment tube.

11. A caltrop system comprising: a deployment cord including at least one caltrop; a tug configured to be received into a launch tube of a launcher system, a first portion of a deployment cord coupled to a first end of the tug; a deployment tube for housing a second portion of the deployment cord; a removable front cap coupled to a first end of the deployment tube; and an end cap coupled to a second end of the deployment tube, the second end opposite the first end.

12. The caltrop system of claim 11, wherein; the first portion of the deployment cord is a caltrop line including the at least one caltrop; the second portion of the deployment cord is a ribbon line wound around a spool within the deployment tube; and the deployment cord includes a breakaway line coupled between the caltrop line and the ribbon line, the breakaway line configured to decouple the caltrop line from the ribbon line during use.

13. The caltrop system of claim 12, wherein: the caltrop line is formed from approximately an inch thick Kevlar rope; the breakaway line is formed from approximately 100-pound test line; and the ribbon line is formed from approximately an inch thick Kevlar rope.

14. The caltrop system of claim 12, wherein: the deployment tube comprises an end cap; and a reel bracket for receiving the spool.

15. The caltrop system of claim 14, wherein: the ribbon line is releasably coupled to the spool via a bread tie; or the spool is releasably coupled to the reel bracket via the bread tie.

16. The caltrop system of claim 12, wherein: the caltrop line is approximately 9 feet in length; the breakaway line is approximately 8 inches in length; and the ribbon line is approximately 120 feet in length.

17. The caltrop system of claim 11, wherein the caltrop system is releasable coupled to a launcher system via a bracket coupling the deployment tube to a launch tube of the launcher system.

18. A deployment cord for use with a caltrop system comprising: a caltrop line having a first end coupled to a tug and a second end, the caltrop line including one or more caltrops; a breakaway line coupled to the second end of the caltrop line at a first end and having a second end; and a ribbon line coupled to the second end of the breakaway line at a first end and having a second.

19. The deployment cord of claim 18, wherein the breakaway line configured to decouple from the caltrop line in response to a force being applied to the caltrop line.

20. The deployment cord of claim 18, wherein: the caltrop line is formed from approximately an inch thick Kevlar rope; the breakaway line is formed from approximately 100-pound test line; the ribbon line is formed from approximately an inch thick Kevlar rope; the caltrop line is approximately 9 feet in length; the breakaway line is approximately 8 inches in length; and the ribbon line is between approximately 4 feet and approximately 120 feet in length.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The use of the same reference numbers in different figures indicates similar or identical components or features.

[0004] FIG. 1 is an example block diagram of an assembly for deployment of a caltrop system, according to some implementations.

[0005] FIG. 2 is another example block diagram of the assembly for deployment of a caltrop system, according to some implementations.

[0006] FIG. 3 is an example block diagram of a bracket for securing a deployment tube to the assembly, according to some implementations.

[0007] FIG. 4 is an example block diagram of an upper portion of the bracket for securing the deployment tube to the assembly, according to some implementations.

[0008] FIG. 5 is an example block diagram of a lower portion of the bracket for securing the deployment tube to the assembly, according to some implementations.

[0009] FIG. 6 is an example block diagram of an example caltrop for use in conjunction with the assembly, according to some implementations.

[0010] FIG. 7 is an example block diagram of an end cap for use on the deployment tube, according to some implementations.

[0011] FIG. 8 is an example block diagram of the end cap receiving a spool for controlling the flight of the caltrop system during a deployment period, according to some implementations.

[0012] FIG. 9 is an example block diagram of a front cap for use on the deployment tube, according to some implementations.

[0013] FIG. 10 is another example block diagram of the front cap for use on the deployment tube, according to some implementations.

[0014] FIG. 11 is an example block diagram of a tug associated with the caltrop system, according to some implementations.

[0015] FIG. 12 is an example pictorial diagram of an officer engaged with the assembly and preparing to launch the deployment cable, according to some implementations.

[0016] FIG. 13 is an example pictorial diagram of a wheel of a vehicle engaged with the caltrop line, according to some implementations.

[0017] FIG. 14 is an example pictorial diagram of a front of a vehicle engaged with the caltrop line, according to some implementations.

[0018] FIG. 15 is a flow diagram illustrating an example process associated with the deployment of the caltrop system via the assembly of FIGS. 1-14, according to some implementations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Discussed herein are assemblies and systems for a ranged deployment of a caltrop belt, rope, or system. For example, traditionally caltrop belts are deployed manually by an officer. For instance, traditionally an officer may grip or hold one end of the caltrop belt and run in front of an approaching vehicle attempting to drag the caltrop belt to a position on the roadway that the vehicle is unable to avoid and thereby engages the caltrops into the tires or wheels causing deflation of the tires or wheels. However, the officer, traditionally, deploys the caltrop belt at a time proximate to the vehicle approaching the deployment location. This often places the officer in harms way as the driver may lose control of the vehicle or attempt to evade the caltrops. Accordingly, the traditional deployment method poses high risk and danger to any officer arraying the belt on the roadway.

[0020] The assembly and system, discussed herein, includes a launcher system or firearm. The launcher system may include a hollow launch tube configured to propel a tug in a desired direction upon activation (e.g., triggering by an officer). For instance, the launch tube may form a barrel housing propellant (e.g., typical firearm propellants). An officer may then insert, into the barrel of the launch tube, a tug associated with the caltrop system. The officer may then launch the tug by triggering or activating the propellant via a control (e.g., leveler, button, or other triggering mechanism) associated with the launcher system.

[0021] In some examples, the launcher system may also include a base or shoulder stock configured to engage a shoulder or chest portion of the officer during use to assist the officer in channeling or controlling recoil associated with the triggering of the propellant and launching the tug. The launcher system may also include a magazine well for receiving and securing a magazine including multiple rounds of propellant, a handle for allowing an officer to hold and control the launcher system, a scope for assisting the officer in aiming the launcher system, and a trigger mechanism for allowing the officer to ignite or activate the propellant. In some cases, the launcher system may also include a trigger guard to prevent unintended deployment and improve the safety of the overall assembly.

[0022] In some implementations, a caltrop system may be loaded with respect to the launcher system. The caltrop system may include a tug, deployment cord coupled to the tug, and a deployment tube for housing the deployment cord prior to activation or launch. The assembly may also include a bracket that couples the deployment tube to the launch tube of the launcher system.

[0023] In some examples, the tug secured to a deployment cord (e.g., a high tensile rope). As discussed above, the tug may be inserted or loaded into the launch tube or barrel of the launcher assembly. The tug may be coupled to a first end of a first portion (caltrop line or portion) of the deployment line. The first portion or the caltrop line may be formed of approximately inch Kevlar rope. The first portion or the caltrop line may be between approximately 5 feet and approximately 11 feet long, such as approximately 9 feet long. The first portion or the caltrop line may also be coupled to one or more caltrops (e.g., between 4 and 10 caltrops, such as 8 caltrops). Individual caltrops may be secured to the caltrop line via one or more eyelets integral to the caltrop. For example, the caltrop line may be threaded through a first eyelet of individual caltrops and then doubled back and threaded through at least a second eyelet of the individual caltrops. Accordingly, the first portion or caltrop line may be a double thick line.

[0024] A second end of the first portion or the caltrop line may be coupled to a first end of a second portion or breakaway line of the deployment cord. The second portion or the breakaway line may be configured to decouple from the caltrop line, such as when the caltrops become engaged with a wheel or tire. In this manner, only the portion of the deployment cord that is associated with the caltrop line engages with wheels, tires, axels, and/or other components of the vehicle preventing additional cord from trailing behind the intended target (e.g., the targeted vehicle). This improves the overall safety of the assembly by preventing other vehicles (such as a vehicle traversing the roadway behind or adjacent to the target vehicle) from becoming engaged with other portions of the deployment cord and, thereby, preventing the deployment cord from impeding the operation of the additional vehicle(s). In some examples, the second portion or breakaway line may be formed from approximately 100 pound test line that is doubled up to form an approximately 200 pound test line. In some cases, the breakaway line may be approximately 4 inches in length. However, in various implementations, the breakaway line may be between approximately 2 and approximately 12 inches in length, such as 8 inches long.

[0025] A second end of the second portion or breakaway line may be coupled to a first end of a third portion or ribbon line of the deployment cord. The ribbon line may be wound around a spool that is coupled to an end cap of the deployment tube. In some cases, the ribbon line may be coupled to the spool via a bread tie or twist tie or other releasably coupling means. The ribbon line may be between approximately 4 feet and approximately 12 feet long, such as approximately 9 feet. In other examples, the ribbon line may be between approximately 4 feet and approximately 120 feet long. In some cases, the ribbon line may be configured and/or included to assist with maintain a trajectory of flight of the tug and caltrop line during deployment.

[0026] In some implementations, the majority of the deployment line may be housed in a deployment tube prior to launch. The deployment tube may include a front cap at a first end and an end cap at a second end opposite the first end. The end cap may be secured to the deployment tube via various means, such as a threaded screw assembly, various adhesives, soldering or welding, and/or other mechanical couplings. In other examples, the end cap may be integral to the exterior of the deployment tube, such as via a molded assembly process. The end cap may also include a coupling mechanism for engaging a spool wound with the ribbon line and secured via the bread tie, as discussed above.

[0027] The front cap may be releasably coupled to the launching tube and configured to be removed prior to deployment. For instance, the officer may remove the font cap from the deployment tube prior to launching the deployment cable at an oncoming vehicle. In various examples, the front cap may provide for a safety mechanism preventing a caltrop from harming an officer or other user. Likewise, the end cap may prevent dust or debris from entering the deployment tube and impairing any launch or use of the assembly.

[0028] The deployment tube may be releasably coupled to the launcher system via a bracket system. The bracket system may include an upper bracket assembly that maybe clamped or secured to the launch tube or barrel of the launcher. The bracket system may also include a lower bracket that may be coupled to the upper bracket via a hinge. In this manner, the officer or user may open the bracket by releasing a clasp of the bracket system to allow the lower bracket to swing open via the hinge. The deployment tube may then be fitted into the opening and engaged against a surface of the upper bracket. The officer or user may then close the bracket by engaging a surface of the lower bracket against the deployment tube and re-engaging the clasp to close the bracket.

[0029] FIG. 1 is an example block diagram of an assembly 100 for deployment of a caltrop system 102, according to some implementations. In the current example, the assembly 100 includes the caltrop system 102 and a launcher system or firearm 104. The launcher system 104 may include a hollow launch tube 106 configured to propel a tug 108 in a desired direction upon activation (e.g., triggering by an officer). For instance, the launch tube 106 may form a barrel housing propellant (e.g., typical firearm propellants). An officer may then insert, into the barrel of the launch tube 106, the tug 108. The officer may then launch the tug 108 by triggering or activating the propellant via a control 110 (e.g., lever, button, or other triggering mechanism) associated with the launcher system 104.

[0030] In the current example, the launcher system 104 may also include a base or shoulder stock 112 configured to engage a shoulder or chest portion of the officer during use to assist the officer in channeling or controlling recoil associated with the triggering of the propellant and launching the tug 108. The launcher system 104 may also include a magazine well 114 for receiving and securing a magazine 116 including multiple rounds of propellant, a handle 118 for allowing an officer to hold and control the launcher system 104, and the trigger mechanism 110 for allowing the officer to ignite or activate the propellant. In some cases, the launcher system 104 may also include a trigger guard to prevent unintended deployment and improve the safety of the overall assembly and a scope for assisting the officer in aiming the assembly 100.

[0031] In the current example, the caltrop system 102 may be loaded with respect to the launcher system 104. The caltrop system 102 may include the tug 108, a deployment cord 120 coupled to the tug 108, and a deployment tube 122 for housing the deployment cord 120 prior to activation or launch. The assembly 100 may also include a bracket 124 that couples the deployment tube 122 to the launch tube 106 of the launcher system 104. In some examples, the tug 108 may be secured to a multi-line deployment cord 120. In this example, the tug 108 has already been inserted or loaded into the launch tube 106 and the magazine 116 is loaded into the magazine well 114 of the launcher system 104.

[0032] In the current example, the majority of the deployment line 120 may be housed in the deployment tube 122, such as when the assembly 100 is prepared for launch. The deployment tube 122 may include a front cap (not shown) at a first end 126 and an end cap 128 at a second end 130 opposite the first end 126. The end cap 128 may be secured to the deployment tube 122 via various means, such as a treaded screw assembly, various adhesives, soldering or welding, and/or other mechanical couplings. In other examples, the end cap 128 may be integral to the exterior of the deployment tube 122, such as via a molded assembly process.

[0033] The front cap may be releasably coupled to the launching tube 122 and configured to be removed prior to deployment, such as illustrated in the current example. For instance, the officer may remove the font cap from the deployment tube 122 prior to launching the deployment cable 120 at an oncoming vehicle. In various examples, the front cap may provide for a safety mechanism preventing a caltrop from harming an officer or other user. Likewise, the end cap may prevent dust or debris from entering the deployment tube 122 and impairing any launch or use of the assembly 100.

[0034] The deployment tube 122 may be releasably coupled to the launcher system 104 via the bracket system 124. The bracket system 124 may include an upper bracket 132 assembly that maybe clamped or secured to the launch tube 106 of the launcher system 104. The bracket system 124 may also include a lower bracket 134 that may be coupled to the upper bracket 132 via a hinge. In this manner, the officer or user may open the bracket by releasing a clasp 136 of the bracket system 124 to allow the lower bracket 134 to swing open via the hinge. The deployment tube 122 may then be fitted into the opening and engaged against a surface of the upper bracket 132. The officer or user may then close the bracket 124 by engaging a surface of the lower bracket 134 against the deployment tube 122 and re-engaging the clasp 136 to close the bracket.

[0035] FIG. 2 is another example block diagram of the assembly 100 for deployment of a caltrop system 102, according to some implementations. In the current example, the deployment cord 122 is shown fired or launched from the launcher system 104. In this example, the tug 108 has exited the launch tube 106. In this example, the deployment cord 120 is illustrated with three portions or lines, generally indicated by 202-206. For example, the tug 108 may be coupled to a first end of a first portion or a caltrop line 202 of the deployment line 108. The first portion or the caltrop line 202 may be formed of approximately inch Kevlar rope. The first portion or the caltrop line 202 may be between approximately 5 feet and approximately 11 feet long, such as approximately 9 feet long. In other example, the caltrop line 202 may be formed from between and inch Kevlar rope.

[0036] The caltrop line 202 may also be coupled to one or more caltrops 208. In the current example, the caltrop line 202 includes 8 caltrops 208. However, it should be understood that in other examples, the caltrop line 202 may include various numbers of caltrops 208, such as between 2 and 12, between 6 and 10 caltrops, and/or the like.

[0037] In some cases, individual caltrops 208 may be secured to the caltrop line 202 via one or more eyelets integral to the caltrop 208, as discussed in more detail below with respect to FIG. 6. For example, the caltrop line 202 may be threaded through a first eyelet of individual caltrops 208 and then doubled back and threaded through at least a second eyelet of the individual caltrops 208. Accordingly, the first portion or caltrop line 202 may be a double thick line.

[0038] A second end of the caltrop line 202 may be coupled to a first end of a second portion or breakaway line 204 of the deployment cord 120. The breakaway line 204 may be configured to decouple from the caltrop line 202, such as when the caltrops 208 become engaged with a wheel or tire. In this manner, only the portion of the deployment cord 120 that is associated with the caltrop line 202 engages with wheels, tires, axles, and/or other components of the vehicle preventing additional cord from trailing behind the intended target (e.g., the targeted vehicle). This improves the overall safety of the assembly 100 by preventing other vehicles (such as a vehicle traversing the roadway behind or adjacent to the target vehicle) from becoming engaged with other portions of the deployment cord 120 and, thereby, preventing the deployment cord 120 from impeding the operation of the additional vehicle(s).

[0039] In some examples, the breakaway line 204 may be formed from approximately 100 pound test line that is doubled up to form an approximately 200 pound test line. In some cases, the breakaway line may be approximately 4 inches in length. However, in various implementations, the breakaway line may be between approximately 2 and approximately 12 inches in length, such as approximately 8 inches in length. In other examples, the breakaway line 204 may be formed from between 50 pound and 250 pound test line.

[0040] A second end of the breakaway line 204 may be coupled to a first end of a third portion or ribbon line 206 of the deployment cord 120. The ribbon line 206 may be wound around a spool that is coupled to an end cap 128 of the deployment tube 122. In some cases, the ribbon line 206 may be coupled to the spool via a bread tie or twist tie or other releasably coupling means. The ribbon line 206 may be between approximately 4 feet and approximately 12 feet long, such as approximately 9 feet. In other examples, the ribbon line may be between approximately 4 feet and approximately 120 feet long. In some cases, the ribbon line 206 may be configured and/or included to assist with maintain a trajectory of flight of the tug 108 and caltrop line 202 during deployment. In some cases, the ribbon line 206 may be formed from approximately an inch Kevlar rope. In other example, the ribbon line 206 may be formed from between 1/16 and inch Kevlar rope.

[0041] FIG. 3 is an example block diagram of a bracket system 124 for securing a deployment tube to the launch system of the assembly, according to some implementations. FIG. 4 is an example block diagram of the upper portion 132 and FIG. 5 is an example block diagram of the lower portion 134 of the bracket 124 for securing the deployment tube to the assembly, according to some implementations.

[0042] As discussed herein, a deployment tube of the assembly 100 may be releasably coupled to the launcher system via a bracket system 124. The bracket system 124 may include an upper bracket 132 assembly that maybe clamped or secured to the launch tube or barrel of the launcher system via a first aperture or opening 302. In some cases, the launch tube may be guided through the first aperture 302 and then the first aperture 302 may be tightened via one or more screws or tightening components 402 to secure the launch tube to the upper bracket 132.

[0043] The bracket system 124 may also include a lower bracket 134 that may be coupled to the upper bracket 132 via a hinge 304. For example, the upper bracket 132 may include a female portion 304(A) of the hinge 304 and the lower bracket 134 may include a male portion 304(B) of the hinge 304, such that a rod or pin may be used to secure the female portion 304(A) to the male portion 304(B) forming the hinge 304.

[0044] The bracket system 124 may also include a clasp or securing component 306. For example, the upper bracket 132 may include a male portion 304(A) of the securing component 306 and the lower bracket 134 may include a female portion 306(B) of the securing component 306 as illustrated. In this manner, the officer or user may open the bracket 124 by releasing a securing component 306 of the bracket system 124 to allow the lower bracket 134 to swing open via the hinge 304. In this example, when the lower bracket 134 is engaged to the upper bracket 132, the bracket system 124 forms a second aperture 308 for securing the deployment tube to the assembly, as discussed herein.

[0045] FIG. 6 is an example block diagram of an example caltrop 208 for use in conjunction with the assembly 100, according to some implementations. In the illustrated example, the caltrop 208 includes two hooks or latches 602 for engaging with a tire or wheel of a vehicle. In other examples, the caltrop 208 may include various number of hook or latches 602, such as in the range of 2 to 8. Additionally, in the current example, hooks 602 are illustrated on a single side of the caltrop 208.

[0046] It should be understood, that the hooks 602 may be arranged in various angles and directions associated with the body of the caltrop 208. For example, at least one hook may extend in an opposing direction from the hooks 602 illustrated in the current example. In other cases, a double caltrop may be formed by coupling the caltrop 208 with a second caltrop, such as via opening 604 in the bottom. In this manner, the double caltrop may be formed from two caltrop 208 facing in opposite directions, such that the double caltrop has 4 hooks with 2 hooks in a first direction and 2 hooks in a second direction opposite the first direction.

[0047] As discussed above, the caltrop 208 may be secured to the caltrop line via one or more eyelets 206 integral to a body of the caltrop 208. For example, the caltrop line May be threaded through a first eyelet 606 and then doubled back and threaded through at least a second eyelet 606 of the caltrop 208.

[0048] FIG. 7 is an example block diagram of the end cap 128 for use on the deployment tube 122 and FIG. 8 is an example block diagram of the end cap 128 receiving a spool 802 for controlling the flight of the deployment line during a deployment period, according to some implementations. In the current example, the end cap 128 may include a spool holder, thread stand, reel bracket, and/or the like 702 to engage with a spool 802 holding the ribbon line of the deployment cord, as discussed herein. The end cap 128 may also include threads 704 for engaging with the deployment tube. In some examples, the spool 802 and/or the ribbon line may be secured to the end cap 128 via a bread tie, twist tie, or other releasable clasp in order to allow the spool 802 and/or the ribbon line to disengage or decouple from the end cap 128 during deployment.

[0049] FIGS. 9 and 10 are example block diagram of a front cap 900 for use on the deployment tube, according to some implementations. In the current example, the front cap 900 includes a notch or opening 902 for allowing the deployment cable to exit the front cap 900 at the first end coupled to the tug, as discussed above. In this manner, the tug may be outside of the deployment tube while the front cap 900 is still in place. This allows for the tug to be inserted into the launch tube and the deployment tube to be coupled to the launching system via the bracket while the front cap 900 remains in place, thereby improving safety of the assembly.

[0050] The front cap 900 may also include a pull 904 to allow an officer or user to grasp the front cap 900 and remove the front cap 900 from the deployment tube prior to launching the tug. In the current example, the pull 904 may include an opening 906 to allow a finger of an office or user to more easily grasp the front cap 900 for removal from the deployment tube.

[0051] FIG. 11 is an example block diagram of tug 108 associated with the caltrop system, according to some implementations. In the current example, the tug 108 is substantially cylindrical and may include a first portion or bottom portion 1104 to be inserted into the launch tube of the caltrop system. The tug 108 may also include a second portion 1106 that may extend outside of the launch tube and allow the deployment cable to couple to the tug 108.

[0052] In the current example, the tug 108 may also include an opening 1106 for receiving and securing the deployment cord. In some cases, the opening 1106 may extend from the front end 1110 of the tug 108 to a back end 1112 of the tug 108 to allow the deployment cord to be secured to the back end of the tug 108, such as via a plate, washer, knot, pommel, and/or the like.

[0053] FIG. 12 is an example pictorial diagram of an officer engaged with the assembly 100 and preparing to launch the deployment cable, according to some implementations. In the current example, the shoulder stock 112 of the caltrop deployment assembly 100 is engaged with the officer 1202. Likewise, the officer 1202 is holding the handle 118 and his finger is engaged with the trigger mechanism 110. In the current example, two bracket systems 124 have been used to secure the deployment tube 122 to the launch tube 106.

[0054] FIG. 13 is an example pictorial diagram of a wheel or tire 1302 of a vehicle 1304 engaged with the caltrop line 202, according to some implementations. In the current example, the tire 1302 is deflated by the caltrops 208 that have embedded into the tire 1302 and the axle 1306 has been impaired by the caltrop line 202. Further, as illustrated, the tug 108 is shown still attached to the caltrop line 202 following deployment and impairment of the vehicle 1304.

[0055] FIG. 14 is an example pictorial diagram of a front of a vehicle 1302 engaged with the caltrop line 202, according to some implementations. Similar to the example of FIG. 13, the axel 1306 has been impaired by the caltrop line 202. Further, as illustrated, the tug 108 is shown still attached to the caltrop line 202 following deployment and impairment of the vehicle 1304.

[0056] FIG. 15 is a flow diagrams illustrating example processes associated with the system discussed herein. The processes are illustrated as a collection of blocks in a logical flow diagram, which represent a sequence of operations, some or all of which can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In the context of software, the blocks represent computer-executable instructions stored on one or more computer-readable media that, which when executed by one or more processor(s), perform the recited operations. Generally, computer-executable instructions include routines, programs, objects, components, encryption, deciphering, compressing, recording, data structures and the like that perform particular functions or implement particular abstract data types.

[0057] The order in which the operations are described should not be construed as a limitation. Any number of the described blocks can be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the processes, or alternative processes, and not all of the blocks need be executed. For discussion purposes, the processes herein are described with reference to the frameworks, architectures and environments described in the examples herein, although the processes may be implemented in a wide variety of other frameworks, architectures or environments.

[0058] FIG. 15 is a flow diagram illustrating an example process 1500 associated with the deployment of the caltrop system via the assembly of FIGS. 1-14, according to some implementations. In some cases, an officer may desire to deploy or launch multiple caltrop lines at an oncoming vehicle (such as in a situation where the first caltrop line fails to impair the vehicle) or multi-vehicle chases or evasion are in process. Accordingly, the caltrop deployment assembly 100 may include a process 1500 for reloading, as discussed herein.

[0059] At 1502, an officer (or other user) may deploy the caltrop line via the caltrop deployment assembly including the launcher system and deployment system discussed above. For example, the officer may engage a trigger on the launcher system to cause the propellant in the magazine to ignite and propel the tug at the desired target (e.g. such as an oncoming vehicle). The tug may then fly towards the target pulling the deployment cord including the caltrop line, breakaway line, and ribbon line at the target. In some cases, this may leave the deployment tube empty.

[0060] At 1504, the officer may decouple a lower bracket from an upper bracket. As discussed above, the caltrop system may include a bracket system coupled to launch tube via the first aperture and the deployment tube via a second aperture. In this example, the officer may decouple the clasp holding the lower bracket to the upper bracket allowing the deployment tube to be removed from the launcher system.

[0061] At 1506, the officer may remove the spent or emptied deployment tube from the caltrop assembly including the launcher system. For example, once the lower bracket is decoupled from the upper bracket, the officer may pull the spent deployment tube from the remainder of the assembly placing or discarding the spent deployment tube on, for instance, the ground.

[0062] At 1508, the officer may attach a new deployment tube to the assembly and, at 1510, couple the lower bracket to the upper bracket to secure the new deployment tube to the assembly. For example, the officer may place the new deployment tube into the second aperture and move the lower bracket up via the hinge between the lower and upper bracket. The officer may then close the clasp of the bracket system to secure the new deployment tube to the assembly.

[0063] At 1512, the officer may insert the tug into the launch tube. For example, the officer may take the tug and place it into the barrel of the launch tube ensuring that the deployment cable is extending outward from the tug to the deployment tube.

[0064] At 1514, the officer may remove the front cap from the deployment tube. For example, using the pull the officer may apply a force to the front cap to remove the front cap from the deployment tube preparing the assembly for launch.

[0065] Although the discussion above sets forth example implementations of the described techniques, other architectures may be used to implement the described functionality and are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as exemplary forms of implementing the claims.

EXAMPLE CLAUSES

[0066] A. An assembly for deployment of caltrops comprising: a launcher system, the launcher system comprising a launch tube and a trigger mechanism; and a caltrop system releasably coupled to the launcher system, the caltrop system including a deployment cord and a deployment tube, the deployment cord configured to be propelled at a target from the launcher system in response to an activation of the trigger mechanism. [0067] B. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of A, wherein the deployment cord further comprises a tug configured to be received into the launch tube. [0068] C. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of B, wherein the deployment cord further comprises: a caltrop line having a first end coupled to the tug and a second end, the caltrop line including one or more caltrops; a breakaway line coupled to the second end of the caltrop line at a first end and having a second end, the breakaway line configured to decouple from the caltrop line in response to a force being applied to the caltrop line; and a ribbon line coupled to the second end of the breakaway line at a first end and having a second. [0069] D. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of C, wherein the caltrop line is formed from approximately an inch thick Kevlar rope. [0070] E. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of C, wherein: the caltrop line is between approximately 7 feet and approximately 11 feet in length; and the caltrop line includes between 6 and 10 caltrops. [0071] F. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of C, wherein the caltrop line is formed from approximately an inch thick Kevlar rope. [0072] G. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of C, wherein: the breakaway line is formed from between approximately 50-pound test line and approximately 150-pound test line; and the breakaway line is between approximately 2 inches and approximately 10 inches in length. [0073] H. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of C, wherein: the ribbon line is formed from approximately an inch thick Kevlar rope; and the ribbon line is between approximately 5 feet and approximately 120 feet in length. [0074] I. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of C, wherein: the deployment tube comprises a tubular portion, a front cap releasably coupled to the tubular portion at a first end, and an end cap fixedly coupled to the tubular portion at a second end opposite the first end, the end cap including a reel bracket; and the ribbon line is wound around a spool, the spool is releasably coupled to the reel bracket via a temporary tie. [0075] J. The assembly for deployment of caltrops of A, further comprising a bracket system, the bracket system including: an upper bracket having a first aperture and forming an upper half of a second aperture, the first aperture configured to receive and couple to the launch tube of the launcher system; and a lower bracket forming the second half to the second aperture, the lower bracket coupled to the upper bracket via a hinge and a clasp system, the second aperture to releasably couple to the deployment tube. [0076] K. A caltrop system comprising: a deployment cord including at least one caltrop; a tug configured to be received into a launch tube of a launcher system, a first portion of a deployment cord coupled to a first end of the tug; a deployment tube for housing a second portion of the deployment cord; a removable front cap coupled to a first end of the deployment tube; and an end cap coupled to a second end of the deployment tube, the second end opposite the first end. [0077] L. The caltrop system of K, wherein; the first portion of the deployment cord is a caltrop line including the at least one caltrop; the second portion of the deployment cord is a ribbon line wound around a spool within the deployment tube; and the deployment cord includes a breakaway line coupled between the caltrop line and the ribbon line, the breakaway line configured to decouple the caltrop line from the ribbon line during use. [0078] M. The caltrop system of L, wherein: the caltrop line is formed from approximately an inch thick Kevlar rope; the breakaway line is formed from approximately 100-pound test line; and the ribbon line is formed from approximately an inch thick Kevlar rope. [0079] N. The caltrop system of L, wherein: the deployment tube comprises an end cap; and a reel bracket for receiving the spool. [0080] O. The caltrop system of claim N, wherein: the ribbon line is releasably coupled to the spool via a bread tie; or the spool is releasably coupled to the reel bracket via the bread tie. [0081] P. The caltrop system of L, wherein: the caltrop line is between approximately 9 feet in length; the breakaway line is between approximately 8 inches in length; and the ribbon line is between approximately 9 feet in length. [0082] Q. The caltrop system of K, wherein the caltrop system is releasable coupled to a launcher system via a bracket coupling the deployment tube to a launch tube of the launcher system. [0083] R. A deployment cord for use with a caltrop system comprising: a caltrop line having a first end coupled to a tug and a second end, the caltrop line including one or more caltrops; a breakaway line coupled to the second end of the caltrop line at a first end and having a second end; and a ribbon line coupled to the second end of the breakaway line at a first end and having a second. [0084] S. The deployment cord of R, wherein the breakaway line configured to decouple from the caltrop line in response to a force being applied to the caltrop line. [0085] T. The deployment cord of R, wherein: the caltrop line is formed from approximately an inch thick Kevlar rope; the breakaway line is formed from approximately 100-pound test line; the ribbon line is formed from approximately an inch thick Kevlar rope; the caltrop line is between approximately 9 feet in length; the breakaway line is between approximately 8 inches in length; and the ribbon line is between approximately 4 feet and 120 feet in length.

[0086] While the example clauses described above are described with respect to one particular implementation, it should be understood that, in the context of this document, the content of the example clauses can also be implemented via a method, device, system, a computer-readable medium, and/or another implementation. Additionally, any of examples A-T may be implemented alone or in combination with any other one or more of the examples A-T.

CONCLUSION

[0087] While one or more examples of the techniques described herein have been described, various alterations, additions, permutations and equivalents thereof are included within the scope of the techniques described herein. As can be understood, the components discussed herein are described as divided for illustrative purposes. However, the operations performed by the various components can be combined or performed in any other component. It should also be understood that components or steps discussed with respect to one example or implementation may be used in conjunction with components or steps of other examples.

[0088] In the description of examples, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, which show by way of illustration specific examples of the claimed subject matter. It is to be understood that other examples can be used and that changes or alterations, such as structural changes, can be made. Such examples, changes or alterations are not necessarily departures from the scope with respect to the intended claimed subject matter. While the steps herein may be presented in a certain order, in some cases the ordering may be changed so that certain inputs are provided at different times or in a different order without changing the function of the systems and methods described. The disclosed procedures could also be executed in different orders. Additionally, various computations that are herein need not be performed in the order disclosed, and other examples using alternative orderings of the computations could be readily implemented. In addition to being reordered, the computations could also be decomposed into sub-computations with the same results.