Electrically conductive mechanical vibration isolator

Abstract

The disclosed inventive concept provides an electrically conductive mechanical vibration isolator for providing an electrical path between parts of a vehicle in order to alleviate the need for ground straps. The conductive isolator disclosed herein includes an inner shell, an outer shell, an elastomer disposed therebetween, and a conductor interconnecting the inner and outer shells to create an electrical path therebetween. In one embodiment, the conductor is at least one conducting wire having opposite ends electrically bonded to the inner and outer shells. In another embodiment, the elastomer may comprise a plurality of conductive particulates distributed throughout the elastomer. In yet another embodiment the elastomer may include at least one channel formed therein and extending between the inner and outer shells for storing a conductive liquid therein. The conductive liquid is contained between the shells and provides an electrical path therebetween.