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Device provides pulses of electrical energy through streams of high pressured electrolytic fluid to disable electrical components within a vehicle

The U.S. Navy seeks to commercialize U.S. Patent 6,723,225 (Automobile engine disabling device).   

Background

It is estimated that over 7,737 police pursuits occur each year throughout the United States; with approximately 1,123 (25%) ending in crashes, and 694 (9%) of these crashes leading to injuries/death to either an officer, bystander, or suspect. These statistics have fueled the debate on whether high speed pursuits should be restricted or banned altogether.* Current methods employed by law enforcement to immobilize fleeing vehicles consist of road blocks, cargo nets, road spikes, and evasive PIT (precision intervention tactic) maneuvers. While these methods can be effective, they can be easily avoided by a pursued vehicle and may cause damage to unsuspecting persons and/or property.

* 2008 IACP Police Pursuit Database. International Association of Chiefs of Police, Alexandria, Virginia.

SSC Pacific has developed a technology that allows a user to disable a vehicle from a safe distance during high-speed pursuits. The device is composed of a fluid delivery system coupled to an electrical power source, which propels streams of conductive liquid onto a target vehicle. The streams act as tethers creating a closed circuit for pulses of electrical energy to be delivered, disrupting and disabling the vehicle’s electrical systems. The device can be outfitted to various mobile and aerial platforms.

Development Status

For more information on Technology Transfer, please contact us at (619) 553–5118 or email ssc_pac_t2@navy.mil

SD 950. March 2011. SSC Pacific, San Diego, CA 92152–5001. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.