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Zip ties?

imants_smidchensimants_smidchens Member Posts: 62 EDU
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?

Answers

  • imants_smidchensimants_smidchens Member Posts: 62 EDU
    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_mcclaryjohn_mcclary Member, Developers Posts: 3,890 PRO
    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
  • mahirmahir Member, Developers Posts: 1,291 ✭✭✭✭✭
    Alternatively, if you are creating assembly drawings you can just call out the zip tie locations via flag note.
  • john_mcclaryjohn_mcclary Member, Developers Posts: 3,890 PRO
    Right, that is all I would do in a professional environment. The model itself is just fancy fluff for the marketing department.
  • fnxffnxf Member, User Group Leader Posts: 134 PRO
    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 :smile:


  • Evan_ReeseEvan_Reese Member Posts: 2,060 PRO
    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. 
    Evan Reese / Principal and Industrial Designer with Ovyl
    Website: ovyl.io
  • fnxffnxf Member, User Group Leader Posts: 134 PRO
    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
  • Evan_ReeseEvan_Reese Member Posts: 2,060 PRO
    fnxf said:
    I would add

       4. assembly instructions

       5. correct BOMs
    excellent additions!
    Evan Reese / Principal and Industrial Designer with Ovyl
    Website: ovyl.io
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