Cardiac Changes Due to Electronic Control Devices? A Computer-Based Analysis of Electrical Effects at the Human Heart Caused by an ECD Pulse Applied to the Body's Exterior

• NCJ Number: 246844
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 59 Issue: 3 Dated: May 2014 Pages: 659-664
• Author(s): Sebastian N. Kunz Ph.D.; Julia Aronshtam Ph.D.; Hans-Rolf Trankler Ph.D.; Sybille Kraus M.D.; Matthias Graw Ph.D.; Oliver Peschel Ph.D.
• Date Published: May 2014
• Length: 6 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Electronic control devices ECDs deliver high-voltage, low-current energy pulses temporarily paralyzing a person.

Abstract

Electronic control devices ECDs deliver high-voltage, low-current energy pulses temporarily paralyzing a person. For the ECD-human interaction, we have developed a computer model using the SEMCAD program within which to simulate the electrical effects throughout the body resulting from the imposition of an ECD pulse at a particular point on the body surface. Our human body models were based on cross-sectional MRIs and CT scans, with the dielectric properties of the various tissues assigned based on previously published values. We simulated the application of a single ECD pulse and calculated the resulting electric field strength and current and charge densities at different body locations. The results were compared with corresponding values obtained by other researchers in similar simulations. Furthermore, we simulated an application of a pulse of 20-millisecond duration equal to the European household current of 50 Hz and to the ventricular fibrillation threshold. The resulting current level indicated at the heart muscle was 1/5 the level considered the threshold for triggering ventricular fibrillation. Abstract published by arrangement with Wiley.