Abstract: The present invention provides automated systems for performing electrostatic discharge (ESD) device efficacy verification and recording the results for an ESD auditing program. Systems of the present invention comprise at least one ESD device testing unit. The testing unit may include sensors and circuits for identifying particular worker who are performing the test. The testing unit includes a testing circuitry for periodic verification of the efficacy of the ESD device. A communication system allows the testing unit to communicate with a central computer which collects, stores and allows the manipulation of the test data. Systems of the present invention are therefore useful in testing the ESD devices, documenting their performance, and controlling access to particular work areas based on testing results.

Abstract: An area ionization system which includes a first set of positive emitters and a second set of negative emitters for providing a supply of positive and negative ions to a work area. A control circuit or computerized control system simultaneously provides high voltage to the positive emitters and to the negative emitters. This "steady state DC" system has been found to be superior to previous systems which provide alternating current or pulsed direct current to emitters. The steady, balanced supply of positive and negative ions allows faster charge decay rates within the work area as well as reduced foreign material contamination. The system also distributes power to the emitters throughout the work area via low voltage lines. The low voltage is stepped up in the emitter arrays in order to supply 8-12 kilovolts to the emitters.

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.

Abstract: Clasps for conductive grounding straps. Clasps according to the present invention allow the strap material to exit the clasp with its conductive side facing the wearer rather than being exposed. The resulting closure decreases the possibility of accidental contact of conductive sections of the strap with high voltage or other dangerous electrical potential that can result in injury or death to the wearer. Because the material exits the clasp with its conductive side not exposed, the free position of the material extending beyond the clasp need not be cut for safety reasons. The strap may thus be adjusted to accomodate various wrist sizes and be used by various wearers.

Abstract: A device for connecting a person to electrical ground comprising a stretchable grounding strap which may be worn on the arm or leg and has two or more sections of conductive material; one or more conductors connecting each section of conductive material to ground and circuitry to actuate warning indicators if any of the sections of conductive material are not contracting the wearer or if the connection between any section of conductive material and ground is open. The circuitry may also actuate an indicator if a safety resistor between a section of conductive material and ground is shorted.

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.

Abstract: A woven strap that may be comfortably worn on the wrist to drain or wick static electrical charges from the wearer. Conductive fibers on the inside surface of the strap contact the skin and conduct electrical charges to a grounding cord attached to the strap. Face yarns exposed on the outer surface may be woven to form designs. The woven fabric material of the strap is attached to a clasp allowing the strap to be adjustable in size. Because of the woven nature of the fabric material and the adjustable clasp, the strap is more comfortable than other conductive elastic wrist straps. The woven fabric material is particularly advantageous because it stretches easily, it is inexpensive, and it does not roll over onto itself as it is being drawn over the hand.