Pixel Mega Tree Ideas- Will it work?

[Steve22537]

I've read a few threads on different forums that use standard 5/8" packing strapping as a medium to support RGD pixel strings to a Mega Tree. Using this method will allow you to have all the pixels facing in the same direction (outwards) and allow for accurate pixel spacing.
 
This is only an idea and I have no idea if it’s going to work, the problem most people have is finding a way to attach the pixel to the strapping. I also intend to use a different WS2801 pixel (wires exit from opposite ends) and the intention was to attach it using P Series staples, one either end of the pixel, and embedded slightly into the pixels silicon case.
 
The reason for the question “Will it work?” is just to see if anyone else has had success with this method or have had success with another method, I’m open to suggestions.
 
 

 
 
Steve
 

[Beacy]

If I have read it correctly you are planning to staple the pixel to the poly tape.  If this is the case it will be a disaster. The tape will split/shred it tears length ways very easily.  Ive got a string where the tape split and have been crossing my fingers I wouldnt lose it

[Dave]

The way i see it, the staple doesn't go through the tape it wraps around it.
Steve you might want to make 1 strand up and hang it outside for a month or two.
 
Dave

[AAH]

I don't know how either half would like it but I'd be tempted to use either a spot of hotmelt glue or if the melting of the tape is an issue use some neutral cure silicon. The acetic cure (smells like vinegar) goes off a lot faster but as it's acidic it can etch into anything metallic.

[Steve22537]

Thanks for the dialog earlier Beacy,
 
(16:50:38) Steve22537: Hi B, The staple wraps around the pixel as in the picture
(16:51:19) Beacy: Yeh but if they got through the strapping it gives it a "tear" point
(16:52:35) Steve22537: These are box staples that have a 25mm crown, so the tape sits between the staples pins.
(16:53:29) Beacy: so its more like a clamp than a staple?
(16:54:12) Steve22537: Correct, with a dob of heatglue under the pixels so it doesn't slide on the strapping.
(16:56:51) Beacy: Might work the only problem you may have is the fact that the pixel side is a lot heavier and gravity may spin the entire strip towards the ground. they would have to be very tight to stop that.
(16:58:59) Steve22537: The only solution to that problem would be to have a very strong hoop made of steel tube.
 
Dave - can I borrow your flag pole to test it on 
 
Steve

[Steve22537]

I don't think the durability of the stapping will be much of a problem, as when I was researching the product I came across plenty of horific images of animals in the ocean and on land that had become entangled with the strapping, seals with strapping wrapped aroung there necks cutting into there flesh.
 
Steve

[Beacy]

there is no doubt it will cut you to pieces it cut the hell out of me.  When we get some reasonable temperature and I can start to take my tree down I'll take some pics of the damage to the tape so you may be able to work around it.  The other option I saw on DIY was parachute cord as it doesn't stretch and has a very high break strength.   it won't hold the pixels out but the tree they had was as good as Walter's. 

[David_AVD]

Is it practical to make the arms from shallow aluminium U channel?

[YAGOONA LIGHTS]

i agree we use this stuff at work but i would make up a sample strip to put out in the sun to see how it lasts in the long run as you do not want to do all that hard work and have it only last one season

[Dave]

You can loop it and use the plastic clamps to tighten it up.
 
Steve, yes, you can bring a string down and hang it up. Or we could just put a flg pole up in your front yard, Total cost approx $100. Great base for a mega tree!
 
Dave

[ѕυρєямαη]

I use 2 of these kits for my tree ( I needed one extra section) they come on special all the time for $39
http://www.dealsdirect.com.au/p/4-5m-flag-pole-kit-australian-flag/