Variable voltage protection structures and method for making same

A variable voltage protection device for use in combination with a ground comprising:

• a variable voltage protection component;
• and
• a compressible conductive ground plane contacting the variable voltage protection component,
• wherein the compressible conductive ground plane comprises a conductive elastomer or conductive rubber and is more compressible than the variable voltage protection component, such that under compressive forces, the compressible conductive ground plane will compress more readily than the variable voltage protection component and will substantially conform to and form electrical contact with irregular surfaces.

A method of making a variable voltage protection device comprising:

• providing a compressible conductive ground plane comprising at least one compliant surface such that the conductive ground plane can conform to and form electrical contact with irregular surfaces when placed under compression;
• providing a variable voltage protection material;
• and
• depositing the variable voltage protection material on the compressible conductive ground plane,
• wherein the compressible conductive ground plane is more compressible than the variable voltage protection material, such that under compressive forces, the compressible conductive ground plane will compress more readily than the variable voltage protection component and will substantially conform to and form electrical contact with irregular surfaces.