Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for managing bi-directional authentication among two or more users comprising at least one server which distributes security protocol information. The security protocol information may include digital certificates which permit authentication of users. The system and method allow for distribution of security protocol information regarding multiple users to multiple selected users directly from the server. Thus, users do not need to exchange information individually among themselves. The distribution of information may include updates, such as the addition of a new user or the change in the status or protocol information of an existing user. New users with proper privileges may receive protocol information for multiple existing users from a single source.

Abstract: An electrostatic discharge foot grounding device made from a unitary piece of essentially planar conductive sheet material so that it includes, integrally connected, first and second leg portions and a connecting portion. The two leg portions form substantially a 90.degree. angle with each other, and the connecting portion projects away from the second leg portion so that it and the leg portion form substantially a 135.degree. angle with each other. Appropriate apertures in the leg portions and slits in the connecting portion provide attachment of the two leg portions into a generally cup-shaped configuration adapted to receive the heel or toe of a wearer's foot, and of the connecting portion to the cup so that, when the cup is placed on a wearer's foot, the connecting portion can be wrapped around the leg and attached to hold the cup in place.

Abstract: A buckle for securing a conductive strap has a conductive base for skin contact and a non-conductive cover partially attached to the base, the base having upwardly extending sides and the cover downwardly extending sides encapsulating the sides of the base. A conductive attachment element is on the cover and a conductive clip member is within the cover in electrical conduct with the attachment means and with the base continuously when the cover is closed and open.

Abstract: A buckle for securing a conductive strap comprises: a conductive base for skin contact and a non-conductive cover pivotally attached to the base, the base having upwardly extending sides and the cover downwardly extending sides encapsulating the sides of the base, conductive attachment means on the cover and a conductive clip member within the cover in electrical conduct with the attachment means and with the base when the cover is closed.

Abstract: A static control garment having torso and limb covering portions with first electrically conductive means in the garment positioned at a limb covering portion adapted to attach to a conductive strap, that encircles a limb of the body, second electrically conductive means in the garment positioned at a torso covering portion adapted to attach to electrical grounding means, and third electrically conductive means interconnecting the first and second electrically conductive means.

Abstract: A grounding device for dissipating electrostatic voltages from the body of a wearer comprises: a pair of grounding straps of equal length joined together at right angles at their ends; a pair of fastener straps extending from the grounding strap ends at about 45.degree.; and an elongated tongue of conductive elastomer having a resistivity of about 1.times.10.sup.6 ohm per square, the tongue being connected to one of the grounding strap ends and the fastener at such end; the length of the grounding straps being selected such that with one strap against a shoe counter, the other extends under the heel of the shoe.

Abstract: Thin flat electrical cells and batteries comprising frames formed with a central opening for receiving wet electrical cell components and made from a two layered structure of a high melting thermoplastic material and a lower melting thermoplastic material, and methods of making the same.

Abstract: Thin flat electrical cells and batteries comprising frames formed with a central opening for receiving wet electrical cell components and made from a two layered structure of a high melting thermoplastic material and a lower melting thermoplastic material, and methods of making the same.

Abstract: Novel products including I.D. cards or I.D. credit cards and laminar assemblies useful in preparing same. Essentially, the invention resides in the discovery that a layer comprising specific ethylene copolymers or mixtures thereof and a layer comprising a hydroxylated polymer can function as especially effective heat-activatable adhesive systems for such products. The invention also presents processes for I.D. cards and I.D. credit cards.