ESD wrist strap-based EDA sensor cum ESD strap integrity monitor

Workers on Electronic Manufacturing Service (EMS) assembly lines are exposed to a high degree of occupational stress and fatigue. There is a need for assistive technologies to limit worker stress/fatigue. Electro Dermal Activity (EDA) (Skin Conductance) is a known indicator of a worker’s stress/fatigue level. We propose a novel Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) wrist strap-based EDA sensor. Our sensor seamlessly integrates with the dual-wire grounded ESD wrist strap that EMS operators are mandated to wear. Our approach for EDA measurement is non-intrusive, considering that the operators are accustomed to continuous usage of ESD wrist straps. Besides EDA measurement, our front-end circuit also monitors the integrity of the ESD wrist strap and alerts the wearer in the event of an intermittent or open ground. We present the circuit design and stress-test-based experimental results.