Even the Mars Rover Uses Zip Ties (2021)

(thedrive.com)

13 points | by ethanpil 1 day ago

5 comments

  • lukeiodev 1 hour ago
    The most mind-blowing part of this isn't just that they use zip ties, but that these Tefzel ETFE ties are basically off-the-shelf parts you can buy a 100-pack of for under $30. It’s peak engineering pragmatism: why invent a bespoke million-dollar fastener when a $0.30 loop of plastic can already survive 2,000x normal radiation?
  • KineticLensman 8 minutes ago
    When I discovered that you can daisy chain cable ties, I felt that I’d found a new law of DIY physics
  • astrolx 56 minutes ago
    Can confirm, I've put tens of zip ties on a Mars lander, and in other science instruments!
    • varjag 43 minutes ago
      Do you folks still use cable lacing (cord) for deep space missions?
  • tamimio 22 minutes ago
    I have used ty-rap before in multiple projects, can’t recall they failed me, especially in some drone builds where steel ties will add to the total gross weight.
  • Towaway69 1 hour ago
    What about Jesus Tape?
    • bittumenEntity 54 minutes ago
      It's an unpopular opinion, but I swear that cable ties are a far more effective problem solver than Jesus/duct/gaffers tape. I always bring tie, and never tape