Patent Publication Number: US-11644284-B2

Title: Rapid response self-defense system and method

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/140,068 filed on Jan. 2, 2021 (now U.S. Pat. No. 11,287,225 to Bogacz et al.). Further, this application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/955,415, filed on Dec. 31, 2019, entitled “Repellent Spray Holder with Precision Target Grip, Finger(s) Guard, Stream Protecting Channel and Sharp Spike to Collect the DNA Sample of the Offender”; and also claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/955,425, filed on Dec. 31, 2019, entitled “Repellent Spray Holder with Brass Knuckles and Window Glass Breaker.” All of the above-listed applications are hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The embodiments described herein relate to personal safety or self-defense devices, and particularly to personal safety or self-defense devices including repellant spray mechanisms and repellant spray holders. 
     Conventional self-defense devices are known including self-defense devices that include repellant spray mechanisms, which can be highly effective for deterring an attacker or temporarily disabling an attacker and thereby allow a person to escape. However, these self-defense devices include many drawbacks that limit their effectiveness or can delay usage during critical times of need. Some conventional devices include simple handle grips that allow the device to be removed easily from their hands. Further, these simple handle grips can allow the device to be held incorrectly, which can allow the device to easily be misoriented or prevent user activation. As such, the user can spend time struggling to use the device during urgent times of need. Further, these devices allow the user to inadvertently spray themself and become disabled rather than disable the attacker. 
     Some conventional devices include actuator locks to prevent inadvertent actuation during storage, such as while in a user&#39;s purse, or while attempting to grab and hold the device. However, the actuator locks on conventional devices are overly complex and require precious time during an attack to release, such as requiring two finger movements or are designed as an electronic release. 
     Some conventional devices provide firm grips having multiple finger holes. These devices help ensure proper orientation for usage of the device and make it difficult for an attacker to grab or for the user to drop. However, the multiple finger hole grips of conventional devices are difficult to grab quickly and are particularly challenging to grab quickly without viewing, such as when a user reaches into a purse or pocket to grab while keeping their eyes on a potential attacker. 
     Some conventional devices include a target guide for aiming a defensive spray at an attacker. These devices are arranged to have the appearance of gun including a barrel from which a spray can be released from the tip. Although these devices may aid with aiming the spray toward an attacker, such devices encourage escalation of violence by providing the appearance of a gun being pointed at the attacker, which encourages the attacker to escalate the level of violence including responding in kind and potentially shooting the user. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  1   , U.S. Pat. No. 5,629,679 to Cranford et al. (“Cranford Device”), a conventional self-defense device  10  is shown that generally includes a body  12 , an actuation mechanism  40 , and a spray mechanism  50 . The body  12  has the appearance of gun, which an attacker can mistake for an actual gun. In addition, the body includes a grip  20  having a plurality of finger holes  22  and a self-orientation curvature  30 , which can increase the user&#39;s grip of the device, reduce the chance of the device being dropped or knocked out of the user&#39;s hand, and aid with properly orienting the device and aiming at the attacker. However, the overall shape of the body having a plurality of finger holes provide a design that is difficult for a user to quickly grab and properly orient without looking at the device, which can take precious time during an attack and require the user to take their eyes off of the attacker. 
     The Cranford Device further includes a spray mechanism  50  having nozzle  52 , a trigger  44  located in the index finger hole  22 , and a release  42 . In order to actuate the device to spray repellant contained within the body, the user must unlock the spray mechanism by moving the release  42  with their thumb prior to pulling the trigger  44  for spraying the attacker. As such, the Cranford Device relies on a two-step, multi-finger operation for unlocking the spray mechanism and actuating the spray, which adds unnecessary multi-finger complexity to its operation and can waste precious time for use of the device during an attack. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  2  &amp;  3   , U.S. Pat. No. 3,443,333 to Manatos (“Manatos Device”) describes a self-defense device  10 ′ having a body  12 ′, an actuation mechanism  40 ′, and a spray mechanism  50 ′. The body  12 ′ is formed as small palm pistol that includes a grip  20 ′ having a plurality of finger holes  22 ′ extending laterally from a side of the body. The lateral finger hole arrangement can increase the user&#39;s grip of the device, reduce the chance of the device being dropped or knocked out of the user&#39;s hand, and aid with properly orienting the device and aiming at the attacker. However, the overall shape of the body having a plurality of finger holes provide a design that is difficult for a user to quickly grab and properly orient without looking at the device, which can take precious time during an attack and require the user to take their eyes off of the attacker. 
     The Manatos Device further includes a spray mechanism  50 ′ having nozzle  52 ′, a thumb trigger  44 ′ located at a top portion of the body  12 ′, and a release  42 ′ located proximate the thumb trigger on an opposite lateral side of the body. In order to actuate the device to spray repellant contained within the body, the user must unlock the spray mechanism by moving the release  42 ′ with their thumb prior to pressing the thumb trigger  44 ′ for spraying the attacker. As such, the Manatos Device relies on a two-step, multi-planar operation of the thumb unlocking the spray mechanism and actuating the spray, which adds unnecessary complexity to its operation and can waste precious time for use of the device during an attack. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  4   , WO2014/131050 to Laser Energetics, Inc. (“Laser Energetics Device”), another conventional self-defense device  10 ″ is shown that generally includes a body  12 ″, an actuation mechanism  40 ″, and a spray mechanism  50 ″. The body  12 ″ is shaped generally as a rectangle having a longitudinal axis&lt;L, which includes a grip  20 ″ having an overall finger opening  21 ″ at a center portion of the body oriented parallel with the longitudinal axis&lt;L, a plurality of finger contours  23 ″ formed within the overall finger opening  21 ″, and a plurality of spike  62 ″. The shape of the body  12 ″, overall finger opening  21 ″, and plurality of finger contours  23 ″ can increase the user&#39;s grip of the device, reduce the chance of the device being dropped or knocked out of the user&#39;s hand, and aid with properly orienting the device and aiming at the attacker. However, the rectangular design centered about the overall finger opening provides a design that is difficult for a user to quickly grab and properly orient without looking at the device or until encountering spikes  62 ″ against the user&#39;s palm, which can take precious time during an attack and require the user to take their eyes off of the attacker. 
     The Laser Energetics Device further includes a spray mechanism  50 ″ having nozzle  52 ″, a trigger  42 ″ located in the index finger hole contour  23 ″, and a release  44 ″. In order to actuate the device to spray repellant contained within the body, the user must electronically actuate the device via release  42 ″ with their thumb prior to pulling the trigger  44 ″ for spraying the attacker. As such, the Laser Energetics Device relies on a two-step, multi-finger operation for unlocking the spray mechanism and actuating the spray along with waiting for the electronic system to unlock the trigger, which adds unnecessary multi-finger complexity to its operation and can waste precious time for use of the device during an attack. Further, the Laser Energetics Device includes multiple supplemental functions, which add further complexity for operation of the device, which can delay its usage for releasing a repellant spray during the critical period of an attack. 
     Thus, a need exists for overcoming drawbacks and limitations of conventional safety or self-defense mechanisms and devices including repellant spray mechanisms. Further, a need exists for a rapid response self-defense device that a user can readily and firmly grab in a proper orientation and easily activate for effective use without risk of blocking the spray or self-spray. 
     SUMMARY 
     This summary introduces certain aspects of the embodiments described herein to provide a basic understanding. This summary is not an extensive overview of the inventive subject matter, and it is not intended to identify key or critical elements or to delineate the scope of the inventive subject matter. 
     One general aspect includes a self-orienting, rapid-response personal self-defense device having an elongate body, a spray opening, a stream channel, an orientation guide, and a contoured grip. The elongate body has a body wall, a top surface portion, a front region, and a pair of lateral regions. An outer surface portion of the body wall extends about the front and lateral regions, and an opposite inner surface portion of the body wall defines an elongate storage cavity within the body configured to retain an elongate repellant container. The spray opening is defined through the body wall from the storage cavity to the top surface portion. 
     The stream channel is formed at the top surface portion extending from the spray opening to a front end of the spray channel, and the stream channel is oriented in a forward direction aimed at a potential target when in a use condition gripped by a user. The orientation guide is formed in an upper region of the body having a tip portion pointing in the forward direction aimed at the potential target in the use condition gripped by the user, and defines an index finger orientation surface. The orientation surface faces downward in the use condition when gripped by the user, and the orientation surface is configured for readily identifying to the user an intended grip location and device orientation based on contact between the user&#39;s index finger with the orientation surface. 
     The contoured grip is formed between a rear region of the device and the outer surface portion, which has a grip diameter sized for the user. The orientation surface and the contoured grip are configured for rapid self-orientation of the personal self-defense device when grabbed by the user. 
     Other safety and self-defense devices, related systems, components and/or methods according to aspects and features pertaining to inventive concepts described herein will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon review of the following drawings and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional devices, related components, systems, and/or methods included within this description be within the scope of this disclosure. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    is a perspective view of a conventional PRIOR ART self-defense repellant spray device having an integrated brass knuckles type grip. 
         FIG.  2    is a side view of a conventional PRIOR ART repellant spray device having a pair of lateral finger loops and a thumb-activated spray mechanism. 
         FIG.  3    is a front view of the conventional PRIOR ART repellant spray device of  FIG.  2   . 
         FIG.  4    is a side view of a conventional PRIOR ART safety and self-defense device having multiple features including a multi-finger grip, a repellant spray, and offensive contacts at a forward section that can capture DNA of an attacker. 
         FIG.  5 A  is a perspective view of an example rapid response self-defense and repellant spray device in accordance with aspects and features of inventive concepts shown and described herein. 
         FIG.  5 B  is a detail view of an example DNA collector located at a front portion of the self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A  as indicated in  FIG.  5 A . 
         FIGS.  6  and  7    are front and rear perspective views of the self-defense device of FIGURE A. 
         FIG.  8    is an exploded perspective view of the self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A . 
         FIG.  9    is a perspective view of a replaceable repellant spray container in accordance with aspects and features of inventive concepts shown and described herein, which can be configured for use with the self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A . 
         FIG.  10 A  is a top rear perspective view of the body for the example self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A , and  FIG.  10 B  is a top perspective view of the example replaceable repellant spray container of  FIG.  9   . 
         FIG.  11    is a lower front perspective view of the body of  FIG.  10 A , and  FIG.  12    is top front perspective view of the same. 
         FIG.  13    is an upper rear perspective view of the body of  FIG.  10 A , and  FIG.  14    is a rear elevation view of the same. 
         FIG.  15    is a side elevation view of the example self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A  shown in a schematic rapid response grip example held by a user. 
         FIGS.  16  and  17    illustrate hand measurements for determining a firm grip diameter for a user of the self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A . 
         FIG.  18    is a rear elevation view of the example self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A  showing Line A-A and Line B-B indicating top and side cross-sectional view orientations corresponding with  FIGS.  19  and  21    respectively. 
         FIG.  19    is a side cross-sectional view denoted as View A-A according to Line A-A shown in  FIG.  18    of the self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A , which shows curved Line C-C indicating the lower attachment region of Detail View C of  FIG.  22   . 
         FIG.  20    shows a portion of the side cross-sectional view of  FIG.  19    illustrating an example spray stream and showing an optional arrangement for the DNA collector. 
         FIG.  21    is a cross-sectional view from above denoted as Detail View B according to Line B-B shown in  FIG.  18    of the self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A . 
         FIG.  22    is a Detail View C of a lower attachment region according to Line C-C shown in  FIG.  19    of the self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A . 
         FIGS.  23  and  24    are partial perspective views of the body of  FIG.  10 A  highlighting the example shaped, user-protected spray channel of self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A . 
         FIG.  25    is a partial front perspective view of an optional configuration of the self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A  showing an example logo insert that can be embedded in a portion of the body of self-defense device and can optionally provide dual functionality as DNA collector. 
         FIG.  26    is a partial front perspective view of another option configuration of the self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A  without a DNA collector included at a front portion of the device. 
         FIG.  27 A  is a front left perspective view of a further optional configuration for the self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A  showing an optional removal, embedded option for a DNA collector in the self-defense device, and  FIG.  27 B  shows the DNA collector insert. 
         FIG.  28    is a front right perspective view of an optional body configuration for the self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A . 
         FIG.  29    is a front perspective view and  FIGS.  30  to  32    are rear perspective views for a further optional arrangement of the self-defense device of  FIG.  5 A . 
         FIGS.  33  and  35    are side perspective views of the self-defense device of  FIG.  29    showing locked and unlocked positions for the spray actuator, and  FIGS.  34  and  36    show corresponding Detail Views D &amp; E as indicated in  FIGS.  33  &amp;  35   . 
         FIG.  37    is a perspective view of an additional example arrangement of a self-defense device according to aspects and features of inventive concepts described herein. 
         FIGS.  38  to  42    are perspective views of the example self-defense device arrangement of  FIG.  32   . 
         FIGS.  43  and  44    are front and rear exploded perspective views of the self-defense device arrangement of  FIG.  37   . 
         FIGS.  45  and  46    are front and rear perspective views of the body of the self-defense device of  FIG.  37   . 
         FIGS.  47  and  48    are side elevation views of optional example self-defense arrangements for the grip portion for a self-defense device arrangement similar to the device of  FIG.  37   . 
         FIG.  49    is a schematic representation of a method pertaining to aspects and features of inventive self-defense device concepts described herein. 
         FIG.  50    is a perspective exploded view of another example rapid response self-defense and repellant spray device in accordance with aspects and features of inventive concepts shown and described herein. 
         FIGS.  51 - 53    are left side, rear, and front views of the self-defense device of  FIG.  50   . 
         FIG.  54    is a cross-sectional view of the self-defense device of  FIG.  50    showing some retention features for self-defense device as an assembly with a repellant spray container. 
         FIG.  55    shows Detail View G of the retention feature identified in  FIG.  54   . 
         FIG.  56    is a lower rear perspective view of the body of the self-defense device of  FIG.  50    showing an additional view of retention features for the assembly with a repellant spray container. 
         FIG.  57    shows Detail View H of the retention feature identified in  FIG.  56   . 
         FIG.  58    is a side elevation view of the self-defense device of  FIG.  50   . 
         FIG.  59    is a side elevation view of the body of the self-defense device of  FIG.  50   . 
         FIGS.  60  to  69    are perspective views of a further example rapid response self-defense and repellant spray device in accordance with aspects and features of inventive concepts shown and described herein including a further option for a DNA collector. 
         FIGS.  70  to  72    are perspective views of a yet another example rapid response self-defense and repellant spray device in accordance with aspects and features of inventive concepts shown and described herein including an additional option for a DNA collector. 
         FIG.  73    is a perspective view of an additional example rapid response self-defense and repellant spray device including a further option for a DNA collector. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the aspects, features and principles pertaining to the invention and configurations discussed herein, reference will now be made to the example configurations and arrangements illustrated in the drawings along with language describing the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and any additional applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the invention. 
     Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment, different embodiments, or component parts of the same or different illustrated invention. Additionally, reference to the wording “an embodiment,” or the like, for two or more features, elements, etc. does not mean that the features are related, dissimilar, the same, etc. The use of the term “an embodiment,” or similar wording, is merely a convenient phrase to indicate optional features, which may or may not be part of the invention as claimed. 
     Each statement of an embodiment is to be considered independent of any other statement of an embodiment despite any use of similar or identical language characterizing each embodiment. Therefore, where one embodiment is identified as “another embodiment,” the identified embodiment is independent of any other embodiments characterized by the language “another embodiment.” The independent embodiments are considered to be able to be combined in whole or in part one with another as the claims and/or art may direct, either directly or indirectly, implicitly, or explicitly. 
     Further, the fact that the wording “an embodiment,” or the like, does not appear at the beginning of every sentence in the specification, such as is the practice of some practitioners, is merely a convenience for the reader&#39;s clarity. However, it is the intention of this application to incorporate by reference the phrasing “an embodiment,” and the like, at the beginning of every sentence herein where logically possible and appropriate. 
     As used herein, “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” “is,” “are,” “characterized by,” and grammatical equivalents thereof are inclusive or open-ended terms that do not exclude additional unrecited elements or method steps. “Comprising” is to be interpreted as including the more restrictive terms “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of.” 
     As used herein, the term “about” when used in connection with a referenced numeric indication means the referenced numeric indication plus or minus up to 10 percent of that referenced numeric indication. For example, the language “about 50” covers the range of 45 to 55. Similarly, the language “about 5” covers the range of 4.5 to 5.5. 
     As used in this specification and the appended claims, the words “top,” “above,” and “upward” refer to elevation directions pertaining to self-defense device orientations when held generally vertically by a user for typical usage of such devices. As such, the words “bottom,” “below,” “base” and “downward” refer to elevation directions at or towards the ground when self-defense repellant devices are held by a user in substantially vertical orientation. Thus, for example, the top portion of example self-defense devices would be disposed at a distal end of the device farthest from the ground, and the opposite end would be disposed at a proximal base or bottom end of the device. 
     Further, specific words chosen to describe one or more embodiments and optional elements or features are not intended to limit the invention. For example, spatially relative terms—such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” “proximal,” “distal,” and the like—may be used to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as illustrated in the figures. These spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different positions (i.e., translational placements) and orientations (i.e., rotational placements) of a device in use or operation in addition to the position and orientation shown in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures were turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be “above” or “over” the other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” can encompass both positions and orientations of above and below. A device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Likewise, descriptions of movement along (translation) and around (rotation) various axes include various spatial device positions and orientations. 
     Similarly, geometric terms, such as “parallel,” “perpendicular,” “round,” “curvilinear,” “articulated” or “square,” are not intended to require absolute mathematical precision, unless the context indicates otherwise. Instead, such geometric terms allow for variations due to manufacturing or equivalent functions. For example, if an element is described as “round” or “generally round,” a component that is not precisely circular (e.g., one that is slightly oblong or is a many-sided polygon) is still encompassed by this description. 
     In addition, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “includes,” “has,” and the like specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, components, etc., but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, or groups. 
     Unless indicated otherwise, the terms exercise apparatus, device, equipment, systems, and variants thereof, can be interchangeably used. 
     According to aspects and features pertaining to embodiments described herein, revolutionary repellent spray self-defense device configurations and arrangements are provided having multiple highly beneficial features in various combinations, which can include features such as a precision target grip, finger(s) guard, a stream protecting channel, DNA collector(s), and defensive features like a sharp attacker-oriented spike. 
     Further, combinations of aspects and features can cooperate to self-orient the device accurately and quickly in the user&#39;s hand for immediate use with the nozzle directed away and toward an attacker in a use pose. 
     Further, beneficial features such as an ergonomic shape, power grip arrangement, orientating finger guard, and a stream protecting channel can prevent a user&#39;s finger from inadvertently blocking a spray stream, as well as reducing or eliminating risk of self-spray or blow-back. Defensive feature options can include arrangements having one or more fused-in metallic or non-metallic shapes configured to deter an attacker during contact, such as through pain or extreme discomfort when the attacker contacts the device held by the user. In some arrangements, the shape can be arranged as a spike or other force-concentrating shape. Further, such defensive shapes can provide additional benefits including also acting as a DNA collector configured for obtaining and collecting DNA samples from the offender during self-defensive contact, which can significantly aid appropriate authorities to identify, locate and take appropriate actions. It is understood that the shape of a spike is one option and that many other shapes can be used. 
     A repellent spray compartment portion can include a repellent spray anti-rotating boss that can ensure proper orientation of the repellent spray inside the housing. The repellent spray compartment can further include one or more side relief slots that allow for rotating a repellent spray&#39;s trigger to lock it if not used to prevent accidental discharge, and allow for ready rotation of the trigger to the usage position. 
     The holder or body can include a hole for attaching a wrist strap to secure the repellent spray holder to the wrist. The holder can also include retention features for firmly securing the repellent spray container in place, while allowing for removal and replacement of the repellent spray container without damaging the holder or the repellent spray container. The ergonomic design and comfortable fit of the body and handle can allow for continuous holding in hand during physical activities, such as running, walking, rollerblading, etc. The holder can be made out of various metallic and nonmetallic materials, and can be made in many different colors and appearances. 
     In some configurations, the body or repellant holder can mimic the shape of the letter “P,” which can help indicate a purpose of the device as a Pepper Spray Holder and/or to indicate “protection” or “protective device.” The “P” shape configuration can provide the user with a confidence similar to that of holding the gun without having a gun shape, provoking an offender or attacker, or escalating a level of violence. 
     Further, the body or repellant spray holder can be produced with a guard for a single or multiple fingers, but is not limited to these shapes only. Optionally, the body or holder can be made without having a finger guard while including a stream protecting channel. Moreover, the holder can be produced in different sizes that can be customized for the user and size of the hand, and/or to fit with different types of repellent spray containers. 
     In addition, the body or holder and/or a wrist strap can include a logo or other representation of a person, entity or organization including a logo representing a school, college, university, and/or corresponding team logo, as well as names. The representations can be produced in assorted colors and have embedded letters, symbols, and logos of these institutions including having a raised symbol or embedded symbol formed in the body. Optionally, the holder can have the initials of the owner or other representation embedded therein. 
     In some configurations, the self-defense device can include personal safety device in combination with a personal defense weapon, such as a repellant spray holder in combination with a glass window breaker and reinforced finger openings configured with brass-knuckle type components. The finger openings can include one or reinforcement bridges between finger opening, as well as one or more DNA collectors and/or metallic or non-metallic fused-in spikes. Alternatively, the DNA collectors and/or spikes can be configured as selectively replaceable components, such that the user can screw in and out DNA collector and defensive protection spikes and other features as desired. 
     In some configurations, the elongate storage cavity can be configured to generally form a tube for retaining a repellant spray container. A removable plug can lock the repellant spray container within the tubular storage cavity along with providing dual window breaking functionality. A hard sharp point insert can be embedded into the plug and extend downward while held by the user, which can be configured to concentrate forces at the hard point for breaking a glass windows during an emergency. The plug can include removable latch-type features for secure retention of the repellant container along with providing for ready replacement of the container. In some arrangements, the removable latch-type features can be configured as spring-loaded latches. The plug, body and other components of the self-defense device can be made out of various metallic and nonmetallic materials and can also be made in many different colors and appearances. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  5 A to  24   , an example self-orienting, rapid-response personal self-defense device  110  is generally shown according to aspects and preferences pertaining to inventive concepts described herein for self-defense devices. Self-defense device  110  generally includes an elongate body  111  configured to receive a spray repellant container  174 . The elongate body generally includes a body wall  112 , a top surface portion  113 , a front region  114 , and a pair of lateral regions  115 , in which an outer surface portion  116  of the body wall  112  extending about the front region  114  and lateral regions  115 . An opposite inner surface portion  117  of the body wall  112  defines an elongate storage cavity  118  within the body configured to retain an elongate repellant container  174  having a trigger  175  and a nozzle or sprayer  152 . A spray opening is defined through the body wall  112  from the storage cavity  118  to the top surface portion  113 . 
     The self-defense device  110  and body  111  form a stream channel  154  formed at the top surface portion  113  extending from the spray opening  152  to a front end of the stream channel. The stream channel  154  is oriented in a forward direction aimed at a potential target when in a use condition gripped by a user. Further, an orientation guide  130  is formed in the upper region of the body  111  having a tip portion  132  pointing in the forward direction aimed at the potential target in the use condition gripped by the user and defining an index finger orientation surface  134 , in which the orientation surface faces downward in the use condition when gripped by the user. The orientation surface  134  is configured for readily identifying to the user an intended grip location and device orientation based on contact between the user&#39;s index finger with the orientation surface. As such, the orientation guide  130 , the orientation surface  134  and other features readily identify to the user simply by feel the proper grip and orientation for grabbing and using the self-defense device  110 . 
     In addition, a secure contoured grip  120  is formed between a rear region of the device and the assembly with the repellant spray container  174  with the outer surface portion, which has a grip diameter sized for the user as shown and described along with  FIGS.  15 - 17   . The orientation guide can define a single finger opening  136  extending laterally through the orientation guide  130  without defining additional finger openings. The arrangement of a single finger opening  136 , and further a slightly oversize, contoured single finger opening enhances the user&#39;s ability to quickly identify through feel alone the proper orientation for the self-defense device  110  and securely grip the device  110  for rapid usage in the proper orientation. The single finger opening can be configured to receive the user&#39;s index finger, in which the upper inner surface of the finger opening forms the orientation surface  134  noted above. Further, the single finger opening can form a closed loop for enhanced retention of the device during use, and can include a finger contour  138  formed in the outer surface portion below the orientation guide. Although such an arrangement of single finger opening can provide benefits for rapid orientation and firm gripping of the device  110 , it is understood that other device configurations can include different finger opening arrangements as discussed below. 
     As can be seen in  FIG.  15    along with  FIGS.  16  and  17   , the self-defense device  110  can be sized for the user, such that the single finger opening  136  defines an inside diameter that is oversized for an index finger of the user without being overly large. The oversized inside diameter can be configured to enhance rapid self-orienting and firm gripping of the personal self-defense device by the user particularly when combined with a contour  138  formed within the opening and along lateral portions proximate the opening. The inside diameter, when measured in a substantially horizontal direction in a use configuration when gripped by a user, can be about 1.25 to 2 times the user&#39;s index finger diameter. Further, the inside diameter can be about 1.5 times the user&#39;s index finger diameter, which can enhance quick gripping and orienting of the device for use. In addition, when sized to have a diameter less than 2 times the user&#39;s index finger diameter, the finger opening  136  can provide for secure retention of the device during usage. Further, when sized to be less than 1.75 times the user&#39;s index finger diameter secure retention can be further enhanced. Thus, a diameter between 1.25 and 1.75 times the user&#39;s finger diameter, and about 1.5 times the user&#39;s finger diameter, can provide for quick gripping, proper orientation, and firm gripping of the device  110  by a user. 
     As can be seen in  FIGS.  5 A and  5 B , the self-defense device  100  can include an attacker contact  160  attached to the tip portion  132  in the form of a DNA collector  162 . The DNA collector can have an outer surface configured to provide a defensive contact with an attacker and collect a DNA sample from the attacker during the defensive contact. In some configurations, the DNA collector  162  can include a curved shape that defines a dimple  162  within the curved shape. In addition, the DNA collector  162  can include a rim portion  167  defining a sharp collection edge configured to scrape the DNA sample from the attacked during the defensive contact. In some configurations, the dimple can form a closed recess for retaining collected DNA samples. In other configurations shown and discussed below, the dimple can be formed as a through-hole to maximize retaining capacity. 
     Although a single DNA collector is shown for device  110  in the example form shown, it is understood that various types of DNA collector devices can be included in various forms, such as various textures configured to scrape the DNA sample from the attacker during the defensive contact. For example, DNA collectors can include textures such as the tip portion having a knurled surface, a milled surface, a grooved surface, a furrowed surface, a roughened surface, a raised projections surface, and an irregular projections surface. 
     As can be seen in  FIGS.  19 ,  20 ,  23  and  24   , the stream channel  154  can include a base surface  155  oriented in the forward direction aimed at the potential target when in the use condition gripper by the user, in which the base surface is disposed at or below a lower part of the stream opening  153 . The stream channel  154  can further include a pair of opposed side surfaces  156  aligned with the base surface  155  and spaced apart on each side of the base surface, which extend upward from the base surface. As shown, the base surface  155  and the upward extending side surfaces  156  define the stream channel  154  in one configuration as an open top recessed channel. Such a configuration can accurately channel and direct the spray toward the user while reducing opportunities for blow back toward the user. Further, a hood  125  across a rear portion of the channel prevents the user from inadvertently overextending their thumb while depressing the trigger  175  and blocking a portion of the spray. 
     The base surface  155  can have an increasing downward slope in the forward direction from the spray opening toward the distal end of the spray channel, and the pair of opposed side surfaces  156  can have outboard diverging curvatures extending upward from the base surface. These features can cooperate to provide a focused stream aimed at the potential attacker while preventing back spray to the user, which can further act as an aim or target guide  130  for the user along with the tip portion  132  to enable accurately aiming the spray at an offender or attacker. 
     As can be seen, for example, in  FIGS.  10 A,  10 B,  18  and  19   , the inner surface portion  117  can define an inner cylindrical shape for the storage cavity  118  that corresponds with an external shape of the repellant container  174 . The storage cavity  118  can be formed as an elongate opening defined in the rear region oriented parallel with the elongate orientation of the body, which provides access into the cylindrical shaped storage cavity. One or more pairs of flexible retention arms  119  can be formed at the rear region that define edge portions of the elongate opening, in which each pair of the flexible retention arms can be curved to extend about rear portions of the repellant container  174 , and can be configured to flex outward for providing the access and biased to a retention position for securely retaining the repellant container. The pair or pairs of flexible retention arms  119  can be configured to provide snap-in insertion and removal of the repellant container, and the use of two or more pairs of flexible retention arms can make it easier for a user to snap the repellant container in and out for replacement. 
     A bottom support boss  123  can extend across a lower region of the storage cavity that has an engagement surface at an upper side oriented upward into the storage cavity, which can engage a base or bottom portion  177  of the repellant container  174  to further secure retention of the repellant container. Further, the body  111  can include an anti-rotation boss  151  at an upper portion of the storage cavity  118 , which can be configured to mate with lateral anti-rotation surfaces  173  of the repellant spray container ( FIG.  8   ) for preventing rotation of the repellent spray container while retained in the storage cavity  118 . 
     As can be seen in  FIGS.  13  and  14    along with  FIGS.  18  and  19   , the body  111  can define one or more side relief slots  126  at either or both side portions of the trigger  175 . The relief slot or slots  126  can be configured to receive rotation of the trigger of the repellant container to prevent accidental discharge of repellant spray while the trigger is disposed within the at least one side relief slot. Further, such an arrangement allows the user to quickly and easily rotate the trigger to the center location with their thumb for activation. Such an arrangement can permit the user to rotate and depress the trigger in essentially a single slide and depress motion. 
     As can be seen in  FIGS.  6 - 8   , the self-defense device  110  can further include a wrist strap  179  attached to the elongate body  111 , which can allow the user to carry the self-defense device  110  while exercising or walking for easy access. As desired, a logo or sponsor ship indicia can be printed or otherwise placed on the wrist strap. The wrist strap can be connected to the body  111  via a cable or ring  180  extending through one or more holes  178  defined through the body. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  25   , another example configuration of a body  211  for a self-defense device is shown, which generally includes the aspects and features described above for body  111  and device  110  except pertaining to the tip portion  232 . As shown, tip portion  232  includes a raised letter “A”, which is shown as an example logo or other indicia  261  that can be embedded in the body  211 . Further, the indicia  261  can provide a dual purpose and act as a DNA collector  262  via sharp edge portions. The embedded indicia  261  and DNA collectors  262  for body  211  and other example arrangements can be formed as metallic or non-metallic materials. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  26   , another example body  311  is shown, which also includes the aspects and features discussed above, except with respect to inclusion of a DNA collector. As shown, the tip portion  332  shown lacks any DNA collector as an optional configuration for the body and corresponding self-defense device. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  27 A  along with  FIG.  27 B , another example body  411  is shown, which also includes the aspects and features discussed above, except with respect to the DNA collector. As shown, a DNA collector  462  can be configured as a replaceable component that can be screwed into and out of, or otherwise swappable or replaceable with an opening  263  formed at the tip portion  432 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  28   , another example body  511  is shown, which includes the aspects and features discussed above, except for the lack of a closed index finger opening. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  29  to  36   , another example self-defense device  610  is shown, which includes the aspects and preferences of self-defense device  110 , except with respect to the DNA collector  662 . As shown, DNA collector  662  is formed with dimple  666  extending completely through the tip portion  632 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  37   , a further example self-defense device  710  is shown, which includes the aspects and preferences of self-defense device  110 , except with respect to the finger opening  736 . It is understood herein and throughout the specification that like numbers refer to like features. As shown, self-defense device  710  includes a finger opening  736  that is shaped and sized for two of the user&#39;s fingers particularly the index finger and middle finger, and includes finger contours  738  for each finger. In addition, two DNA collectors  762  are disposed on the tip portion of the device. Such an arrangement can further enhance the user&#39;s ability to readily grip and orient the device properly for use and improve the firm grip via two fingers placed through the finger opening  736 . In addition, self-defense device  710  provides a plurality of DNA collectors  762  for enhancing the likelihood for obtaining a useful DNA sample. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  38  to  46   , a further example self-defense device  810  is shown, which includes the aspects and preferences of self-defense device  110 , except with respect to the finger opening  836 , storage cavity  818 , and bottom plug  880 . Like numbers refer to like features. As shown, self-defense device  810  includes a finger opening  836  that is shaped and sized for all four of the user&#39;s fingers, and includes finger contours  838  for each finger. In addition, a plurality of DNA collectors  862  are disposed on the tip portion of the device, which as shown can include four DNA collectors. Such an arrangement can further enhance the user&#39;s ability to readily grip and orient the device properly for use and improve the firm grip via all four fingers placed through the finger opening  836 . In addition, self-defense device  810  provides a plurality of DNA collectors  862  for enhancing the likelihood for obtaining a useful DNA sample. 
     As can be seen, for example, in  FIGS.  43  and  44   , a plug  880  can be received at a lower end of the storage cavity  818  for securely retaining the repellant container  874 . The plug  880  can include flexible a pair of flexible or spring-loaded plug clips  884  configured to mate with corresponding slots in the body  811  for allowing ready removal of the plug  880  for replacing the repellant container  874 . 
     Furthermore, a bottom end of the plug  880  can include a hard window breaker  882 , which can include a hard tip. The window breaker  882  can be formed fully or partially from a metallic material. Notably, a tip portion of the window breaker  882  can concentrate forces at the tip portion for aiding in breaking glass, such as a vehicle window for escaping after an accident. The location of the window breaker  882  at the bottom end of the self-defense device  810  oriented substantially perpendicular to the user&#39;s grip allows the user to apply maximum force in a downward motion for apply breakage force to a window. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  911  and  1011   , additional examples of self-defense body configurations  911  and  1011  are shown, which includes the aspects and preferences of self-defense device  810 , except with respect to the finger openings  936 A &amp;B and  1036 A-D. Like numbers refer to like features. As shown, self-defense device bodies  911  and  1011  include a plurality of finger openings  936 A &amp; B and  1036 A-D that are shaped and sized for either two pairs of the user&#39;s fingers each ( 936 A &amp; B) or for each of the individual user&#39;s fingers ( 1036 A-D) along with including finger contours for each finger. Supplemental frame members are included between the finger openings to reinforce the frame structure. In addition, a plurality of DNA collectors can be disposed on the tip portion of the device. Such arrangements can provide enhanced gripping of the corresponding self-defense device. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  49    along with  FIGS.  15 - 17   , a method  4910  is generally shown for providing rapid and effective self-defense for a user. As shown, the method can generally include a step  4912  of determining size-related ranges of user parameters for a personal self-defense device for enabling rapid self-orientation and firm gripping for users including determining size-related index finger ranges and grip diameter ranges. As discussed above along with  FIGS.  15 - 17   , the size-related ranges can be determined based on a length, L, of the user&#39;s hand from the interface between the palm and wrist to the end of the middle finger. The inventors have determined that a firm grip can be provided via a grip diameter that is 15% to 40% of the length L of the user&#39;s hand and preferably 20% to 35% of the length L, and more preferably 20% to 25% of the length L. Alternatively, the size-related ranges can be determined by measuring the diameter, D, formed by the user forming an “O” shape with their fingers and thumb as shown in  FIG.  17   . Based on typical hand lengths, L, and “O” shaped diameters, D, ranges of self-defense devices  110  can be provided having grip diameters about 20% to 25% of the length of hands and/or for diameters, D, of most user. 
     Further, the size-related ranges can be determined based on the diameter of the user&#39;s index finger. As discussed above along with  FIG.  15   , the size-related ranges can be determined for finger openings  136  for most users, such as a finger opening diameter  137  about 1.5 times the diameter of the user&#39;s fingers. As an alternative, the grip diameter  122  can be determined for most users to be about two times the diameter of the user&#39;s index finger. 
     The method  4910  continues by configuring  4914  the self-defense device for the ranges of user parameters, which can include determining an arrangement for an orientation guide of the self-defense device enabling rapid identification via contact by a single finger of a user of an intended grip location and device orientation (e.g., diameter  137  of finger opening  136 ), and determining a secure grip for the self-defense device for a user according to the rapid identification via contact by the user (e.g., grip diameter  122  based on the index finger diameter and/or hand length, L, and/or “O” shaped diameter, D). The method can further include identifying  4916  a corresponding self-defense device  110  for ranges of index finger size parameters and grip diameter, determining  4918  an index finger size and/or grip diameter for a particular user. The method  4910  can include matching  4920  a rapid self-orientation personal self-defense device with the index finger size and the grip diameter of the particular user, and providing  4920  to the particular user the matched rapid self-orientation personal self-defense device. 
     Optionally, the method  4910  can include, or another method (not shown) can be provided that includes configuring a practice version of the self-defense device for each range of the user parameters. The practice kit can include an inert version of a self-defense device, such as self-defense device  110 , which can include an inert repellant spray container  174 . The inert repellant spray container  174  can include a visible spray lacking any repellant characteristics, such as a water-based, polymeric-based, glycerin-based fluid or the like. In some arrangements, the visible spray can be colored to enhance practice usage by the user. Further, a target (not shown) can be provided for use with practice versions of the self-defense device  110 . Although self-defense device  110  is included along with description of method  4910  and practice methods and kit, it is understood that any defense device configuration and related implementations described herein can be used. 
     The method can further include forming a practice kit for the practice version of the self-defense kit (not shown), matching a practice version of the self-defense device for the particular user, and providing to the particular user the matched practice version of the self-defense device and the practice kit. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  50  to  59   , yet another example of a self-defense device  1110  is shown, which includes the aspects and preferences of self-defense device  110 , except with respect to the attachment of the repellant spray container  1174  with the body  1111 , and corresponding changes for body  1111 . Like numbers refer to like features. As shown, self-defense device  1110  is configured similar to self-defense device  110  for the upper portion of the device including finger opening  1136  and above, but relies upon the body of the repellant spray container  1174  for the lower half. The upper portion of the repellant spray container  1174  is configured to mate with and be retained by body  1111  in a similar or same matter as described above for self-defense device  110  including mating with an anti-rotation boss and being retain by a pair of flex retention arms  1119 . However, body  111  further includes a retainer tab  1128  defined within the storage cavity  1118  that is configured to engage with a medial indentation  1176  formed along the body of the repellant spray container  1174 . 
     As such, self-defense device  1110  can provide a body  1111  of reduced size, which can nonetheless provide benefits and advantages discussed above along with self-defense device  110 , but in an even smaller container. For instance, self-defense device  1110  provide a self-defense device that the user can readily grip and properly orient and aim for accurate usage via feel without taking their eyes of a potential attacker and firmly grip. Although shown without having a DNA collector disposed on the tip portion, it is understood that a DNA collector or alternative DNA collector configurations can be included. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  60  to  66   , a further self-defense body  1211  for a corresponding self-defense device is shown, which generally includes the same aspects and features as described along with self-defense device  110  and self-defense body  1211 , except with respect to the DNA Collector  1262 . As shown, DNA Collector  1262  can be configured as a textured surface  1262 , such as a roughened surface, which can scratch, scrape or otherwise obtain DNA samples from an attacker during contact and retain the same. The example shown for DNA Collector  1262  includes an array of raised, angled rasp-like features  1269  having sharp edge surfaces, which can scrape exposed skin or other DNA samples from an attacked and retain such samples under the raised rasp-like features. It is understood that other types of DNA collector roughened surfaces can be used, and that other arrangements of rasp-like features  1269  or similar features can be used. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  67  to  73   , additional self-defense device bodies  1311  and  1411  are shown, which include the aspects and preferences of self-defense body  1211  except pertaining to the DNA Collector arrangement options represented. As shown in  FIGS.  67 - 72   , a self-defense body  1311  is shown for a corresponding self-defense device, which includes a generally rectangular arrangement of rasp-like features  1369 , which can reduce the likelihood of inadvertently catching against various objects while still functioning to capture DNA samples from an attacker.  FIG.  73    shows a self-defense body  1411  having an arrangement of smaller rasp-like features  1469  along with at least one dimple that can help retain samples. It is understood that various types of raised or roughened features can be used in a different arrangements for obtaining DNA samples during contact with an attacker and retaining the same. 
     The subject matter described above is provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed as limiting. Various modifications and changes may be made to the subject matter described herein without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described, and without departing from the true spirit and scope of the embodiments of the concepts and technologies disclosed herein.