possible solution to the static problem

[DonRotolo]

Originally Posted by Tom Bottiglieri

The FRP is non conducting, so there is no path from the robot to the ground while it is driving around.

Perhaps, but as writchie notes, a grounding tail will allow static to discharge readily. We used some finely-stranded #10 wire, about 3 inches long, one end into a ring terminal and the other end fanned out into a good imitation of a paintbrush.

This was purely precautionary, as we have not experienced any issues where we might suspect ESD or static.

Originally Posted by Wayne C.

We wear Static Guard like cologne.

Ah, that explains that

Folks should also note that just the spark of an ESD event is not the only chance for damage - the spark creates an electromagnetic field which can cause damaging voltages to be induced into near-by conductors. So it's not enough to control when & where it sparks; you need to control the sparks themselves. Team 25, with their anti-static wrist straps and mats, are on the right track, This isn't rocket science people.

Originally Posted by David Brinza

One of the tricky issues with ESD is that it can cause "latent" damage. A piece of equipment might continue to work after a "zap", but in reality some internal damage may have occurred. The next zap - even a tiny one, can cause a permanent failure.

Such latently damaged items are also called "walking wounded" and are especially problematic - the wound may also cause unintended operations, but it will be so intermittent it becomes difficult to find. And, in a high-reliability application (such as a spacecraft) it is a disaster.

I will ask our coach to ask Q&A to 'approve' a 1 MOhm resistor between components (frame, power, and cRio) for ESD bleed.

Don