Stretchable grounding strap having redundant conductive sections
US4639825A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 2, 1985 |
| Grant date | Jan 27, 1987 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 2, 2005 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S57/901
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A stretchable grounding strap for additional reliability in grounding the wearer's body through the use of two or more separate sections of conductive material, each of which is connected to ground by a separate grounding line. Circuitry utilized in connection with the strap senses loss of electrical contact between the strap and ground and provides visual and aural notification that contact is lost as well as visual notification when the strap is grounded. According to one group of embodiments, the strap utilizes a stretchable material having two or more sections of longitudinally oriented electrically conductive fibers on its inner surface. Face yarns on its outer surface may form letters, words, logos or other pleasing or commercially attractive designs. Elastic yarns allow the material to stretch easily and comfortably. According to another group of embodiments, the strap comprises at least two sections of metal links. One or more clasps, which may be adjustable, are attached to the material, and fittings are mounted on the clasps, one fitting corresponding to each section of conductive material and for receiving one grounding cord.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.