The simplified pad design is complete, and going out in the mail. While attempts to remove the zig-zag conductive thread pattern failed due to significantly different resistance levels, I did make a few updates:

Reduced the number of solder joints by 50% by using more length of the 24ga ps2 wire

Reduced the number of pieces and installation complexity by using a single backing. This will ensure it is not installed backwards

Strengthened the joints between the conductive thread and wire with stainless steel crimp tubes. I believe this was the failure point in the last set of pads.

This will be the last update until I get the old pads back and can determine the failure point.