Modernization of Handcuffs

*Please note the ISC Website will be available on May 11, 2021 at 14:00 EDT

This Challenge Notice is issued under the Innovative Solutions Canada Program (ISC) Call for Proposals 003 (EN578-20ISC3). For general ISC information, Bidders can visit the ISC website.

Please refer to the Solicitation Documents which contain the process for submitting a proposal.

Steps to apply:

Step 1: read this challenge

Step 2: read the Call for Proposals

Step 3: propose your solution here

Challenge title: Modernization of Handcuffs

CHALLENGE SPONSOR: Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)

Funding Mechanism: Contract

MAXIMUM CONTRACT VALUE:

Multiple contracts could result from this Challenge.

The maximum funding available for any Phase 1 Contract resulting from this Challenge is $150,000.00 CAD (plus tax) including shipping, travel and living expenses, as applicable.

Estimated number of Phase 1 contracts: 2

The maximum funding available for any Phase 2 Contract resulting from this Challenge is $1,000,000.00 CAD (plus tax) including shipping, travel and living expenses, as applicable. Only eligible businesses that have completed Phase 1 could be considered for Phase 2.

Estimated number of Phase 2 contracts: 1

This disclosure is made in good faith and does not commit Canada to contract for the total approximate funding. Final decisions on the number of Phase 1 and Phase 2 awards will be made by Canada on the basis of factors such as evaluation results, departmental priorities and availability of funds.

Travel

Not anticipated, but may be necessary as part of development.

Kick-off meeting

Teleconference/videoconference

Progress Review Meeting(s)

Teleconference/videoconference

Final Review Meeting

Teleconference/videoconference

All other communication can take place by telephone, videoconference, and WebEx.

Problem Statement

The challenge is to design handcuffs with a double locking mechanism that is easy to engage even when a "client" is struggling or being non-compliant with officer direction. The current handcuffs in use by the RCMP utilise an intricate double lock. The double lock is enabled once the handcuffs are placed on a client to prevent possible injury from self-tightening when in use. The lock is engaged by flipping a very small lever inside the key hole of the handcuffs using the opposite end of the handcuff key (referred to as a double lock tip or actuator). The locking mechanism is often difficult or not possible to engage when officer apprehension involves a struggle leading to difficulties in placing a client in handcuffs.

Desired outcomes and considerations

Essential (mandatory) Outcomes

The solution must:

1. Ensure there are no sharp or rough edges
2. Ensure the handcuffs, once locked, cannot be tampered with
3. Ensure the handcuffs and locking mechanism can be easily removed by police officers 
4. Fit a broad range of wrists for application speed and accuracy
5. Ensure a lock can easily or automatically be engaged safely to prevent further tightening once applied 
6. Ensure quality material in construction
7. The material used must be rust and corrosion resistant
8. All materials used must be non-toxic and not cause immediate or long-term harm to the operator or client.
9. The total weight of the handcuffs should not weigh more than 1 pound.

Additional Outcomes

The solution should:

1. Consider using recycled materials as long as the safety, strength and efficiency of the innovation is not compromised by doing so
2. Fit onto the officer’s duty belt without interference of other essential tools
3. Fit well into a broad range of general pouches used for carrying handcuffs
4. Be an ergonomic design for ease of use by police officers / law enforcement officials (e.g., size and shape should not impede officer's ability to handle handcuffs as required)

Background and Context

RCMP officers are trained in the use of the current handcuffs including how to apply and remove them from clients. Certain situations or clients present greater challenges to engaging the intricate double locking system which can result, on occasion, in injury to the individual police officer, the client, or both. The RCMP is exploring options for a modernized handcuff design that will reduce and/or prevent these types of situations moving forward.

ENQUIRIES

All enquiries must be submitted in writing to TPSGC.SIC-ISC.PWGSC@tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca no later than ten calendar days before the Challenge Notice closing date. Enquiries received after that time may not be answered.