Apparatus and methods for electrically grounding a load-supporting surface

摘要

Apparatus for electrically connecting and grounding at least two mechanically interconnectable, planar mats in a reusable load-supporting surface includes at least one removable, electrically-conductive cover configured to be engaged with each mat and extend at least partially across the top and/or bottom face thereof. Each cover includes at least one conductive interface configured to electrically connect its associated mat with at least one other mat in the load-supporting surface.

主权项

1. Apparatus for electrically connecting and grounding at least two mechanically interconnectable, planar mats in a reusable load-supporting surface deployed on or near the surface of the earth, the mats being constructed at least partially of impermeable plastic material and having top and bottom faces, multiple sides and at least one edge extending around each side thereof, the apparatus comprising:
a plurality of removable, electrically-conductive covers constructed at least partially of electrically-conductive material, each one of said removable covers being configured to be coupled to another of the respective mats and extend at least partially across at least one among the top and bottom faces thereof, each said cover having at least one conductive interface configured to contact and form an electrically-conductive path with at least one said conductive interface of an adjacent mat when the mats are mechanically interconnected in the load-supporting surface to electrically connect such mats; and at least one grounding rod configured to be electrically connected between at least one said cover and the earth.