Pulse Variations of a Conducted Energy Weapon (Similar to the TASER X26 Device): Effects on Muscle Contraction and Threshold for Ventricular Fibrillation

• NCJ Number: 228522
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 54 Issue: 5 Dated: September 2009 Pages: 1113-1118
• Author(s): Charles W. Beason, M.S.; James R. Jauchem, Ph.D.; C. D. Clark III, B.S.; James E. Parker, M.S.; David A. Fines, B.S.
• Date Published: September 2009
• Length: 6 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Test/Measurement; Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

In order to provide information relevant to the development of future conducted-energy weapons (such as the Advanced TASER X26 model), this study used a "Modifiable Electronic Stimulator" (MES) in order to evaluate the effects of changing various parameters of the stimulating pulse on muscle contraction and threshold for ventricular fibrillation.

Abstract

Based on its findings, this study recommends that any future developments of new conducted-energy weapons should place the electrodes a minimum of 20 cm apart, so that the efficiency of the system is not degraded in achieving debilitating muscle contraction. Regarding ventricular fibrillation, the study found that the 50-percent probability of fibrillation level of X26-like pulses ranged from four to five times higher than the X26 itself. Relatively large variations in the X26 operating level were found not to result in fibrillation or asystole. This indicates it is possible to design and build an X26-type device that operates efficiently and safely at levels higher than the X26. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of and to facilitate the improved design of conducted-energy weapons that may be similar to the X26 device, researchers examined the effects of an inhouse-designed and constructed MES. Modifiable parameters of the MES included pulse power, pulse shape, net/gross charge, pulse duration, and pulse repetition frequency. The applied pulse was similar in shape to that of the X26. The study included measurements of the effects of varying electrode spacing on muscle contraction during exposure to the X26. Researchers also investigated the effects of the absence of the preliminary pulse, repetition rate, and power. In order to assess the effective operating margin of potential future devices, the power of the MES was increased until ventricular fibrillation occurred in the anesthetized domestic pigs used in the study. 7 figures, 27 references, appended supplementary information on the statistical analysis