Velcro for electrical components

[pfreivald]

Originally Posted by juchong

Same here, although we've been known to use a couple of zipties for heavier and more "in the way" components. I do not recommend "fuzzy" Velcro for mounting electronics.

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?

[Sperkowsky]

We personally stick to zip ties except on the radio where we use Duralock.

[juchong]

Originally Posted by pfreivald

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.