Zip ties?

imants_smidchens

I'm working on a CAD project for our robotics team, and we've taken to using zip ties for not only wire management, but also for attaching lightweight components in places where a custom 3D printed mount (or something similar) is less practical. However, in previous years we haven't taken the time to add screws/bolts/chain, let alone zip ties.
I'm trying to implement better CAD practices across our team - leaving no screw un-CAD-ed, we found an excellent chain/belt featurescript, but I'm at a loss for how to do zipties.
Is there a featurescript out there I'm unaware of, or is there a better way than creating unique, custom, in-context parts?

imants_smidchens

one thing I'm considering is using the wire featurescript to create a replication which approximates the dimensions, would this be a valid way?

john_mcclary

if you want to show your zip tie then I would draw a box to represent the head.

Draw circle or a box with a spline to create a path for your strap.

Configure your shape as needed.

Then draw your strap rectange and sweep along your path

mahir

Alternatively, if you are creating assembly drawings you can just call out the zip tie locations via flag note.

john_mcclary

Right, that is all I would do in a professional environment. The model itself is just fancy fluff for the marketing department.

fnxf

Have a look at this: https://cad.onshape.com/documents/bd1ab9b3ce22193d6cab1fcb/v/5cddd092347747326f80ba5a/e/1585fa2a8d699d6318e9a552
Maybe a bit complicated- but if you'd just take the "Part Studio Zip tie" and put it in a stand-alone document, you'd be ready to insert this in any assembly. The diameter of the zip tie can be adjusted during assembly. Feel free to copy and improve

EvanReese

I think folks are right that they aren't strictly necessary. The only reasons I can think that you'd really care to have them in there are:

1. identifying potential collisions
2. renderings and other images
3. personal satisfaction

but if I were doing this, I'd do something like @fnxf suggests and make a single configured zip-tie part to bring into the assembly. I might suggest adding several configs. One table for the sizes you know you'll have (could be small, medium, large) and also the diameter it's going around. 

fnxf

I would add

   4. assembly instructions

   5. correct BOMs

Good suggestion, @Evan_Reese. In my experience, small and large are enough, e.g. 120 mm and 250mm length. And I'm really a fan of the new Q-ties from HellermanTyton: https://www.hellermanntyton.com/products/cable-ties-inside-serrated/q120i/109-00053

EvanReese

fnxf said:

I would add

   4. assembly instructions

   5. correct BOMs

excellent additions!