[EricH]

At L.A., I mainly saw tape used to cover (and highlight) sharp edges. There was one shooter that had a potential safety issue of the "finger in the wheel when it starts moving" variety due to large holes, but some color-coordinated tape filled the holes and possibly improved performance (less drag due to having the holes).

On the whole, I think the use of tape was very moderate. While more than previous years, the tape was primarily for decoration or non-critical component securing, and things of that nature. Zip ties still abounded for stronger connections, and for still stronger ones, threaded fasteners were still in use.