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Unread 19-01-2016, 17:14
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juchong juchong is offline
Electrical Engineer
AKA: Juan Chong
FRC #2655 (Flying Platypi)
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Join Date: Aug 2008
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Re: Velcro for electrical components

Quote:
Originally Posted by pfreivald View Post
We've used "industrial strength" hook-and-loop (Velcro) for mounting all of our pneumatics since at least 2010 and never had a single issue. Why wouldn't you recommend it?
From what I've observed, the cheap, "fuzzy" Velcro keeps things from falling off, but doesn't keep them from moving/flexing. Since robots are expected to go over bumps and traverse rough terrain this year, I would worry about the Velcro failing and a connector coming in contact with the robot frame.

In addition, the more electrical components are allowed to move/shake, the more likely they are to disconnect. Added strain on wires and connectors can make a bad crimp fail or a spring-loaded connector release a wire.

If I were inspecting robots, I would not pass anyone who used only "fuzzy" Velcro to attach their electronics. If "industrial" Velcro was used, I would spot check the components and make sure that nothing was in danger of failure.
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