US 5,685,636 A · Eye safe laser security device

Abstract

This invention provides a fixed or portable non-lethal laser security device and method for use of such device as a non-damaging weapon and security system to provides warning and visual impairment upon an intruder. At a predetermined laser wavelength and intensity, this invention utilizes laser light in the visible portion of the wavelength spectrum to create temporary visual impairment, hesitation, delay, distraction, and reductions in combat and functional effectiveness through the effects of glare, flashblind, and psychological impact. The preferred embodiment of the laser security device in the present invention involves the use of laser technology with a remotely operated security system. The device should have a housing structure to protect the internal components from damage or destruction, the ability to produce and transmit visible laser light over various wavelengths and intensities, a power source to drive the laser light, a collimating lens to focus the laser light, and should also be capable of coupling and communicating with an existing security device such as a remote-control closed circuit television camera mounted upon a pan and tilt head. Upon detection of an intruder, the laser security device is capable of visually warning the intruder of the detection. If the intruder further intrudes, the laser security device impairs the intruder's visual capabilities by the effects of flashblind and glare, allowing security forces time to respond to the intrusion and intercept the intruder.

Claims34

Dependent claims

A self contained, portable device to reduce or temporarily impair the visual ability of a human by either glare or flashblinding without long-term visual impairment, said device comprising:

(a) a single housing;
(b) a laser positioned in said housing, said laser being a low energy laser, when energized said laser producing a beam of visible laser light having an intensity of up to 0.0583 watts/cm.sup.2 at a range of 3-1000 meters;
(c) a lens positioned in said housing for altering the spread and, therefore, the intensity of said laser beam;
(d) a power source positioned in said housing;
(e) a switch positioned in said housing;
and
(f) a power source circuit positioned in said housing, interconnecting said power supply and said switch with said laser, said circuit limiting the power output of said laser to a level of intensity at which significant glare and flashblinding effects occur but below the threshold intensity for permanent eye damage.

4 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Eye safe laser security device

Life of this patent

Eye safe laser security device

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims34