TechnicBRICKs

Week TechVideo, 2013 #20 - Yet another 4-speed LEGO sequential gearbox

2013-05-19T22:45:00.000+01:00

I was looking into my queued bookmarks to select something for today, and found this sequential 3+R gearbox by Durian, a French builder.

It seems quite reliable and to work pretty well!

You may find video building instructions from the same author, for the selector module here, and for the 4-speed gearbox here.

Disclaimer:

Please avoid sending requests to post specific models on this TBs section.

We understand some of you would enjoy to see your creations featured here, but please understand that because only one video gets highlighted per week, it is impossible to accommodate all the great MOCs continuously build by the Technic builders out there. They simply won't fit all and that's also not the purpose of this blog (see the header statement).

Many of your MOCs are scanned anyway and listed for later publication when they do not fit immediately. However some remain in the backlog queue just for too long and eventually loose the relevance or the publication opportunity window. As a rule of thumb, we also avoid publishing MOCs that have been featured by their authors or other fans at some other great web places dedicated to the Technic community out there. It doesn't mean that occasionally some won't get published here anyway.

Thanks for your understanding!

TBs TechPoll 38 - Red colored track inserts, or what?

2013-05-19T10:36:00.000+01:00

As we have already mentioned a few times before, there is one particular new part release with the upcoming LMS EV3 kits, very interesting for the Technic builders. More specifically on the LEGO MINDSTORMS Education EV3 Expansion Set (45560).
We are ofc referring to the new rubber track inserts that fit on the large Technic track elements (57518), to provide additional grip.

It happens we will get a red overdose of these, on the coming months...
Hence the question, which other colors would you like to see released that eventually better fit with your LEGO Technic constructions?

You can answer the poll on the right and select your favorite colors. We added just those which are already available as rubber colors into LDraw library (most of them), but ofc you can also select 'other' and specify in the comments, which one you would prefer, in case it is not listed.

I'm really curious to see what will come out of this, i.e. which are your preferences.

Week TechVideo, 2013 #19 - Yet another LEGO humanoid arm

2013-05-12T22:28:00.000+01:00

From time to time we get to see a new attempt for a prosthetic hand, arm or both, made with LEGO Technic parts, by some addict fan.
Fortunately all these attempts are very different from each other, and pointing to different solutions and directions. Some are fully based on pneumatics, others fully geared or even robotized with LEGO MINDSTORMS, but all very ingenious [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].

This week Peter (piotrek839), a LUGPol member, showed on EB his proposal - a 1:1 scale, fully motorized prosthetic hand, wrist, arm and elbow, with 12 PF motors.

You can find a load of additional photos from this project at Peter's respective folder on Brickshelf.

There you'll see many of the technical solutions he used and the prior studies still in CAD renders.
One of the solutions I most liked was the sliding axles with consecutive gears to implement a kind of extensible axles, and the use of soft axles to transmit rotation to the mLAs at each finger, as they adopt variable positions. This solution must somehow limit the usable torque, but still within the required range.

Disclaimer:

Please avoid sending requests to post specific models on this TBs section.

We understand some of you would enjoy to see your creations featured here, but please understand that because only one video gets highlighted per week, it is impossible to accommodate all the great MOCs continuously build by the Technic builders out there. They simply won't fit all and that's also not the purpose of this blog (see the header statement).

Many of your MOCs are scanned anyway and listed for later publication when they do not fit immediately. However some remain in the backlog queue just for too long and eventually loose the relevance or the publication opportunity window. As a rule of thumb, we also avoid publishing MOCs that have been featured by their authors or other fans at some other great web places dedicated to the Technic community out there. It doesn't mean that occasionally some won't get published here anyway.

Thanks for your understanding!

B-models for bigger 2H13 sets

2013-05-12T17:40:00.000+01:00

And now on the same place, also some great pictures from B-models of the two main sets to be released next summer.

42008 - Service Truck / Crane Truck with Semi-Trailer

Not much to say about this one, except it looks a much valid proposal for the part assortment in this set. The green/red color combination in this model makes it look quite different from all the rest.

The crane extends with a large LA and if I got it right the mLA is used to make the crane to swivel manually (nice and a different idea - interesting use for the u-joint).
The grabber on the crane on the crane operates with a small pneumatic cylinder which is feed by an electric pump.
The gearing on the back side also suggest some action. I'm not sure whether they're outriggers, a semi-trailer locking mechanism, or both.
Looking at the yellow handle on the side, I'd say there is a 2-function switch-box to choose between the pump and rear functions. I'm not sure how to extend the large LA on the crane arm though.
The truck has a manual winch at front, cabin doors seem to open and steering is controlled via HoG. The semi-trailer has also a manual gear to make it stand when separated from the truck, and I think there is another manual geared function to make the cargo bed to turn sideways and unload the payload.

42009 - Mobile Crane Mk II / Reach Stacker

Despite this is not really an hit in terms of aesthetics or even in terms of proportions compared to the real vehicles (look at the wheels), it is a very interesting B-model and one great attempt from the designers to make something different, complex and with plenty of functions. The large partcount from the Mobile Crane may have helped ofc.
I'm very pleased to see a Reach Stacker or Container Stacker, added to the assortment, as it is something I've been willing to build myself for such a long time.Just wish this would have come as a main model, but hope is not lost. There are many years of LEGO Technic sets to come.

Despite not hyper-realistic I like the way the container holder is built, and appreciate the the fact that the operator cabin can be raised. Just can't see if this done manually or somehow geared.
The high count of wheels and parts in the Mobile Crane, even allowed to create a two vehicle set which is a nice aspect. The small truck has an auto-centering mechanism that guides the container as it is released and it also features 4-wheel steering.

To be honest, I'm not sure about which one I will prefer to build first.

Hi resolution images for the 2H1013 Technic sets

2013-05-10T16:09:00.002+01:00

Today appeared on Eurobricks (like can be guessed from this post's title...) high resolution images of the Technic sets for 2H1013. Without further ado, here they are.

42001-1: Mini Off-Roader

42005-1: Monster Truck

42008-1: Service Truck

42009-1: Mobile Crane MK II

To all pixel hunters and reverse engineers out there: the game is on!

TBs TechTalk 12 - About Track Inserts

2013-05-08T09:07:00.000+01:00

The upcoming launch of the EV3 MINDSTORMS Edu and Retail sets have generated quite some discussion regarding the new motors, but so far we haven't had a closer look at some of the new elements that these sets will contain.

Today we will have a closer look at an element that many Technic fans have been asking for for a long time and that finally has appeared in the EV3 MINDSTORMS Edu set: Track Inserts.

This new element will not be included in the base set, but will come in the expansion pack. This pack will contain 853 elements, including 28 track inserts (LEGO ID 6036424).

We wanted to learn a little more about this new element and so we talked to Pelle Petersen (PP). Pelle started with the LEGO Company in 1992 on the LEGO Technic team. He was also one of the designers of the LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT platform and has contributed several models for the EV3 expansion set, including the amazing elephant and the Tank Bot. He was also lead designer for the track inserts.

Here is what Pelle told us:

TBs: As with most functional element, the track inserts must have been developed with a specific need in mind. What was this specific need that apparently other, already available parts couldn't fulfil? Was it mainly designed to improve traction on some floor types (which ones?) or to improve crawling capabilities (e.g. over a pile of assorted bricks), or to help dragging parts like in a conveyor belt...?

PP: The main specs are: Improve traction for the track element on a variety of surfaces: wood, tiles, carpet etc. etc.; any environment you would normally find our models in.
The wider specs are: An element that could be used when more friction is desired. Build interface, half module Technic hole/beam system.
The only other Lego element availably to improve traction would be the elastic band and that´s a quite expensive solution, it doesn’t show easily in a building instruction and the design suffers, so a new element is welcome.
To be a divider for a conveyor belt, the element would have to be taller and that goes against the rubber snap which can’t deal with a lot of side movement. It is also one of the reasons the element in only ½ module tall when built in the track element.

TBs: The track insert was speculated to be a possible incorporation in the Technic assortment right after the introduction of the new track elements. When the track links were designed all those years ago, were their pin holes already added with the intention to use track inserts, or was it serendipity?

PP: The designer on that element was Markus Kossman in the Technic group, so he would know exactly. It is common practice, when designing Lego elements, to always see if a building possibility can be added, but Markus knows for sure.

TBs: Why now? What was the decisive argument for going ahead with the production of this element?

PP: As with many aspects in life, a lot of reasons? We had just added the track system to our new EV3 set, marketing really wanted a new element, MINDSTORS has powerful motors that can handle that extra friction etc. etc.

TBs: How much more grip do those inserts provide, compared to the standard track?

PP: I have no exact data on that…so: a lot, but not so much that it will tear normal models apart.

TBs: Can you tell us how difficult it was to find the right rubber compound to use, so that it brings some improvement rather than compromising performance on most common surfaces in our homes? Did you have to try different compounds in your tests?

PP: That was extremely difficult. Mainly because we also had to mould a rubber snap. Lego can easily mould in two different materials (hard plastic for snap / soft for friction) but in this case this would make the price grow to an unacceptable level. So we were left with soft material and that took a lot of testing before we found a good snap.

TBs: Why was the part produced in red? It makes it that much harder to use in other applications, like Technic models. Can we expect the get them also in other more useful colours?

PP: Because that is EV3 MINDSTORMS’ new “marker” colour. There is no practical issue moulding this element in other colours. To get them in different colours, another group (maybe Technic) would have to put the element in their sets, in another colour.

TBs: Can you tell me something (more) about the design stages the element has gone through?

PP: This element was unusual from the beginning, because we couldn’t initiate the design work until a very very late stage. So all design work was done in close cooperation with the engineering and manufacturing teams. A special thanks to Bo Thoning Kristiansen, Sofie Beier Nørgaard and Peter Rasmussen for helping out in an extraordinary way.

TBs: It seems this new element is an exclusive for the LEGO Education kit. Is there any justification for this situation?

PP: I think it just seems like that. Because we were quite late with the element, the deadline for other groups to use the element was pushed to next season launch.
Other groups (Technic etc. etc.) can use the element if they want.

Naturally we also contacted Markus and this is what he told us:

MK: It was a long time ago when we developed the track system, so I thought about it… and as far I can remember the first sketches were without the holes. But while maturing the element, we also looked at the small track element, to whose top it was possible to attach plates. So it was decided that this should also be possible for the new track element. Although we were already building without studs, it was a natural choice to put Technic holes in the tracks. Another important point was to give it the right Technic look, so it could be easily recognized as a Technic element.

At that time we had no plans to add a rubber element to increase friction.

So how much friction does the element add exactly? Well, we're working on getting more exact data, but in the meantime have a look at Tank Bot while it tackles some obstacles, equipped with these new track inserts:

Hope you are as excited about the new track inserts possibilities as we are!
Soon we will raise a poll to know which other colors you would prefer to get them.

Week TechVideo, 2013 #17 - Spider Pen - The LEGO suspended plotter

2013-04-28T19:30:00.000+01:00

Today we bring you another LMS NXT creation by Ricardo Oliveira, my fellow PLUG member now living in Sweden. As usual his creations are really thinking out-of-the-box and this time he made a video to present and explain his Spider Pen robot, a kind of LEGO NXT suspended plotter working by gravity.

This is something he had already presented at LEGOWORLD (Zwolle or Copenhagen this year, really can't remember anymore...), but which he wanted to make a decent presentation for the world now. In the end you may see several other drawings done by this robot. Also one where the old NXT gives birth to the next generation EV3.

He even made a video (the one at the right) where he explains all the details from the concept to execution.

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And this is not the latest project from Ricardo for sure! Guess we will see some cool EV3 robot by him, at the proper time...

Disclaimer:

Please avoid sending requests to post specific models on this TBs section.

We understand some of you would enjoy to see your creations featured here, but please understand that because only one video gets highlighted per week, it is impossible to accommodate all the great MOCs continuously build by the Technic builders out there. They simply won't fit all and that's also not the purpose of this blog (see the header statement).

Many of your MOCs are scanned anyway and listed for later publication when they do not fit immediately. However some remain in the backlog queue just for too long and eventually loose the relevance or the publication opportunity window. As a rule of thumb, we also avoid publishing MOCs that have been featured by their authors or other fans at some other great web places dedicated to the Technic community out there. It doesn't mean that occasionally some won't get published here anyway.

Thanks for your understanding!

Oeiras BRInCKa 2013

2013-04-24T06:37:00.000+01:00

PLUG (Portuguese LUG) is holding its annual largest LEGO Fan Event (Oeiras BRInKCa 2013) over the next weekend (from April 26th trough the 28th).

The event will happen in Oeiras, Portugal at Leões de Porto Salvo sport facilities, with over 1.200 sqm exhibition and LEGO selling areas.

You will have the opportunity to see models and dioramas from Portuguese and international builders, on several themes (City, Friends, Star Wars and Technic just to give a few examples), meet the new LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 and enjoy several activities/sports.
And Jan Beyer, LEGO Community Operations Manager for EU/Asia, will be with us.

Now you know why the activity here at TBs has been so scarce... Such an event takes months of preparation work.

More information about the event on Facebook and the event website.

Week TechVideo, 2013 #16 - LEGO biped

2013-04-21T23:49:00.000+01:00

Many have been building two-legged LEGO walkers over time (namely the excellent Dino Series by Alexander Østby from Norway), but Masao Hidaka built on top of this, to almost nearly perfection as we are used to see from him.

The work done around the "heels" is superb!

Disclaimer:

Please avoid sending requests to post specific models on this TBs section.

We understand some of you would enjoy to see your creations featured here, but please understand that because only one video gets highlighted per week, it is impossible to accommodate all the great MOCs continuously build by the Technic builders out there. They simply won't fit all and that's also not the purpose of this blog (see the header statement).

Many of your MOCs are scanned anyway and listed for later publication when they do not fit immediately. However some remain in the backlog queue just for too long and eventually loose the relevance or the publication opportunity window. As a rule of thumb, we also avoid publishing MOCs that have been featured by their authors or other fans at some other great web places dedicated to the Technic community out there. It doesn't mean that occasionally some won't get published here anyway.

Thanks for your understanding!

And a new cycle begins!

2013-04-20T23:48:00.000+01:00

Jetro has been our LEGO Ambassador for almost two and half years now [1].
He has been doing a great job, many times behind the scenes - but as everything else, one day it comes to an end and now another cycle begins!

It can be a tiring job sometimes, specially when you have a prolific hobby across many LEGO interests. Hence we decided another of us should step in and make Jetro's life a bit easier.

From now on and while he can undertake the Job, Alexandre Campos (AVCampos), the cat lover, will be the new LEGO Ambassador for TechnicBRICKs and our LEGO Technic readership community.

If you want to get in contact with your LEGO Ambassador, leave suggestions or ask questions, you should write to: lego.ambassador[AT]technicbricks.com

The LEGO Ambassadors are entitled to submit suggestions towards TLG, because they signed a specific Release Form, that allows TLG to receive them.

Of course this doesn't mean that the LEGO Ambassadors will forward all the suggestions, or every single question. It will depend on their own judgment and many answers may come from their own, based on the knowledge and experience they have on the questioned topics.

Thanks Jetro, for the great work!

TBs TechPoll 37 (Results) - 2012, 4th Quarter - Favorite week TechVideos

2013-04-13T23:43:00.000+01:00

It was a late poll and not much of you have voted the TechVideos poll this time. Only 65 casted their vote for TBs poll for '2012, 4th Quarter Favorite week TechVideos'.
Poll objective was to let you choose your favorite videos, from those highlighted every week here under TBs 'Week TechVideo' label, during the 3rd quarter of 2012.

There was a clear winner and we got a draw for the third place this time.

#1- "Week TechVideo, 2012 #40 - Bell UH-1 Huey", by Steph77

#2 - "Week TechVideo, 2012 #51 - PF RC Ferrari 458 Italia Spider 1:10, by brunojj1

#3 - "Week TechVideo, 2012 #41 - Caterpillar 963D Track Loader", by Makorol and Week TechVideo, 2012 #50 - Lego Technic tractor JCB 2155 with rake Fella TS 4000", by corne723 (Kees Hogenhout)

Congratulations to the producers of the most popular videos among those featured here at TBs , during the 4th quarter of 2012!

Week TechVideo, 2013 #14 - Pascaline

2013-04-07T23:51:00.000+01:00

Thiago Bouzan (thiagot5) [1] finished his latest work - a replica from the mechanical calculator Pascal's Calculator (or Pascaline), invented by Blaise Pascal in 1642.
This calculating machine could add and subtract two numbers directly and multiply and divide by repetition. Do not confuse with other more advanced calculus machines developed many years later, and eventually better know by the readers. The Arithmometer patented in France by Thomas de Colmar in 1820, and the Difference Engine or the Analytical Engine, both designed by Charles Babbage (aka "father of the computer") later in the 19th century.

For a LEGO realization of the Babbage Difference Engine, by Andrew Carol, you may want to recall this older post here at TBs .
Now let's wait on what Thiago has set for his next project...

Disclaimer:

Please avoid sending requests to post specific models on this TBs section.

We understand some of you would enjoy to see your creations featured here, but please understand that because only one video gets highlighted per week, it is impossible to accommodate all the great MOCs continuously build by the Technic builders out there. They simply won't fit all and that's also not the purpose of this blog (see the header statement).

Many of your MOCs are scanned anyway and listed for later publication when they do not fit immediately. However some remain in the backlog queue just for too long and eventually loose the relevance or the publication opportunity window. As a rule of thumb, we also avoid publishing MOCs that have been featured by their authors or other fans at some other great web places dedicated to the Technic community out there. It doesn't mean that occasionally some won't get published here anyway.

Thanks for your understanding!

LEGO Community Survey - Q1 2013

2013-04-06T01:37:00.002+01:00

Make haste! make haste!
No time to waste!
The quarter is gone
and no survey was done...

To be fair, the CEE team has put a lot of work into this survey in the sense that it now available in 9 different languages, so take your pick, answer the survey and let's see what LEGO can tell us about the survey results.

Here's the announcement:

Dear all,

We want your help to understand how we can best support and improve the LEGO fan community.

To learn more about the adult LEGO fan community, we distribute a survey 4 times a year. The surveys help us understand what you and your fellow AFOLs are engaged in, what you think of your LEGO hobby, and how you perceive the LEGO brand. Survey results guide our team at the LEGO Group as we work to better support of the fan community. As such, the surveys help us decide where to spend our time and money.

Deutsch
English
Español
Français
Pусский
한국의
繁體中文, 國語
繁體中文, 廣東話
简体中文, 普通话

After each survey we will provide the LEGO Ambassadors with a brief description of the general findings. The findings will be shared broadly with the adult LEGO fan community.

Thank you very much for your help!

Kind regards,
Tormod Askildsen - Head of the LEGO Community Events & Engagement team
Jan Beyer - Community Operations Manager EU/Asia/Aus/NZ
Kim Ellekjær Thomsen – Community Coordinator Western Europe

TBs TechReview 22 - 42000 Grand Prix Racer

2013-04-04T23:24:00.002+01:00

Set reference: 42000
Set name: Grand Prix Racer
Theme: LEGO Technic
General availability: 2013.Mar

Number of parts: 1141 (plus few additional spare parts)

LEGO Designer: UFGE (Uwe Wabra)

Model under review: Main model
Weight: Unrated
Approximate set dimensions:
Length - 58cm (22,8")
Width - 25cm (9,8")
Height - 14cm (5,5")
Approximate box dimensions:
Length - 478mm (18,8")
Width - 378mm (14,9")
Height - 90mm (3,5")

Stickers: Yes
Building instructions: 3 booklets included (84, 84 and 52 pages): 1/3, 2/3, 3/3
B-model: Race Truck - Building Instructions available online only: 1/3, 2/3, 3/3

Recommended for ages: 11 - 16
Building difficulty level: Advanced
Estimated Building Time: ca. 3 hours

Price range: 99,99 - 119,99€ or $129,99
Price per part: 8,8 - 10,5 euro cents or 11,4 US dollar cents

Inventory (Bricklink): Link
Other user reviews (Brickset): Link

When Fernando did an interview with me several years back, one of his questions was what a Technic F1 racer would look like with the new panels. Well, with set 42000 TLG shows us what it can look like. Is it a worthy follow up of the classics 8458, 8461, and 8674? Let's find out.

1. Box & Content

The first thing one notices is the size of the box. Normally you expect a bigger size for this price and piece count. Just compare it with its predecessor, the 8674 F1 Ferrari. At least the box doesn't feel and look so empty now. Furthermore it's better for the environment and saves TLG money, because less air has to be transported. Good developments if you ask me, although I'm doubtful the extra savings will make retail prices go down...

When it comes to content, besides the usual beams, pins, axles and connectors, this kit is a great source if you want to get more of the new panels, with a staggering total of 33! The downside, however, could be that they come in different colours; 19x white, 8x red, of which 4 new mini panels, and 6x black ones. That said, the white is a nice addition to the usual red, black and yellow, and this kit contains quite a bit of it!

Furthermore we can find some other new parts: special wheelhub pieces, different for front (2x) and rear (2x), the return of a hard to find tire (4x) (not included in the picture), and probably the most useful newcomer is a thin 1x5 liftarm with 2 crossholes (6x).

Other not so common parts are the mini linear actuator (3x), steering CV joints (4x), steering CV axle joints (2x), 4L double perpendicular connectors (4x),wishbone suspension arms (16x), 1x9 links (7x), togglejoint (3x), some frames,... and a 1x7 gearrack (not included in the picture).

Overall a decent inventory, certainly worth the money when you do not own any of the previous F1 racers. If you already do own one of those, you might want to reconsider your options, unless you really want to have those new and rare parts, and expand your collection.

2. Build

There are no numbered bags, and therefore it doesn't take long before all bags have to be opened. The build then starts with the floor of the monocoque, which basically consists of beams and connectors. It gives a nice foundation for the rest of the modules to be mounted on.

The first module is the gearbox, but not like what you expect in a car. Instead, this gearbox will be used to switch functions between opening the enginecover or changing the rear wing's angle. But more about this later.

Once this module is connected to the frame, we continue to expand the floor until the full chassis has taken shape.

The next big module consists of the rear wheel drive and suspension together with the engine. In that respect the build-up of this racer has similarities with its real life counterpart, which adds a nice educational flavour. In the rear suspension are also the first new hub elements used. Together with other new introduced parts, the rear suspension is now technically more correct than how it had to be done previously.

Once mounted onto the chassis, some parts are added for reinforcement, before moving on to the next module...

With most of the rear functions done, it's now time for the front section. Again we start with the suspension. Here it becomes once more very clear how certain parts like the frames and T-beam have made it possible to design much tighter and smaller solutions now compared to its predecessors.

Next step is extending the steering mechanism with the rest of the nose section. Both HoG and steering wheel are available for manoeuvring the vehicle.

Then of course, as before, the whole section is attached to the chassis. With the long front added, the total size of the model starts to look quite impressive!

We finish the front section with the front wing. This part is really well done with a good use of the new panels. Certainly an improvement from previous incarnations.

After the last technical parts are in place, the mini linear actuators for lifting the engine cover, it's now time to cover the rest with some bodywork. The white gives it a very clinical look.

We finish with the adjustable rear wing, and as always the wheels. It looks pretty good even without the stickers, which to me shows that a model has the right spirit.

Overall a pleasant and well thought out build. A few minor annoying moments, when parts can come of when attaching others, and some less intuitive steps, but generally speaking very enjoyable.

3. Functions

The rear axle is connected to a V8, so when you move the vehicle, the pistons will go up and down in a nice pace. Furthermore the rear has independent double wishbone pushrod suspension, with the dampers in a horizontal position, identical to real racers.

A similar construction is used on the front suspension, although here the dampers are in constant decompression, which is not ideal, because it means internal stress. Another difference compared to the rear axle is of course that the front has an incorporated steering system.

This steering can be controlled either through the HoG or steering wheel, although that last option is not recommended; the steering wheels is not easy to reach because it is actually embedded too low in the cockpit, which looks kind of odd. It's a bit small in proportion as well...

The last 2 functions are controlled through a gearbox from the right side, and involve lifting the engine cover or adjusting the rear wing, both of which make use of the mini linear actuator. Those functions work well, but feel a bit tacky though, like an afterthought to cross-promote the 8293 PF motor set. Considering that motorizing those functions does not add a lot to the playability, and the fact that the battery box on the back looks just plain ugly, only makes it feel tackier in my opinion.

One other thing I find unfortunate is the wobbliness that the new wheelhubs have, due to their tolerances. Now that TLG finally took the time to redesign the old wheelhub, which I think is great, I would have expected a much improved version, so I'm a bit disappointed with the quality of this new one. A missed opportunity if you ask me. The same can be said for the steering angle, which is too little, resulting in a turning radius that's still too wide.

Overall the functions work well, which is of course the main concern. The new wheelhubs however are too wobbly, which is a real pity now that TLG did take the time to design a new version. Furthermore, you could ask yourself if the extra functionality of the adjustable rearwing and the engine cover really add that much value to the set, or was it more a bad excuse to cross-promote PF? When I was working at TLG there was a clear vision to use and cross-promote PF only when it made sense and added good value. Lately it seems like PF almost becomes a necessary evil, infiltrating its way in sets that really do not benefit from it. This is one of those examples.

4. Aesthetics

With the adjustable rear wing in mind, I think it's safe to assume that this model is based on the Formula 1 race class, which is almost exclusively using the DRS (Drag Reduction System) that was introduced in 2011. So this model should represent an F1 racecar from either 2011 or 2012.

Because many F1cars had a stepped nose in 2012, which this model (luckily) doesn't have, and because the development at LEGO Technic is often close to 1 year ahead, the best estimate is to compare this model to real F1 cars from the 2011 season. Of course this model is not based on any particular model, like the 8674 Ferrari was, but still I think it's fair to do a generic comparison.

The first impression is pretty good; it certainly looks and feels like a fast Formula racer. The new panels definitely give the model some nice smooth surfaces, but at the same time it seems a little rough on the edges, with the lack of some flexible axles. I would have liked seeing some smoother lines like its predecessors - the whole nose section doesn't flow very well -, just as I would like to have seen the engine lower positioned in the model.

The most aesthetically pleasing part is the nose cone and front wing in my opinion where the new panels work really well. However, when comparing this to the real F1 racers from the 2011 season the wing is simply not wide enough. Ok, I admit, I'm a big Formula 1 buff and very keen on details. I can accept this issue though as the front wing just looks so nice.

Bigger problems I have with the wheel size. This is the first LEGO Technic F1 racer in this scale that uses a narrower wheel and tire, which unfortunately doesn't work out so well. They just don't have enough volume, and the model suffers because of them. It's a pity, because if the tires would have been slightly wider and/or higher, the model would have looked so much better in proportion. Unless TLG still had the old mould lying around somewhere and they wanted to save costs, I don't really understand why they didn't go for a more suitable, more iconic and better looking F1 tire. Otherwise I hope that TLG has a good excuse for reintroducing this particular type of tire by launching another model using the same tires real soon...

Last, but not least we have a look at the colour and livery. The cool thing with F1 cars is that you can pretty much use any color and livery, especially because this one is not based on a real life counterpart, and the white, red, black with some light gray accents does the job. Perhaps other colour combinations would have looked even better - what about a black/orange or blue/yellow combo -, but my hunch is that the new upcoming Mindstorms, which uses the exact same colours, might have something to do with this colour choice.

Overall the model looks ok, with some good parts and some that are not so good. Nothing really exceptional here, but the general perception is that it looks like a formula racer, which is what it needs to be. The biggest flaw is the size of the tires, that are just too small in proportion to the rest.

5. Conclusion

It's good to see another Formula racer after 8 years. The set contains some interesting bits, either completely new ones or elements in not the most common colours. The build is very enjoyable and for the most part the instructions are easy to follow, with a few trickier steps.

In many ways this model reminds me of its predecessors, but thanks to some new elements, certain mechanisms are now technically more correct than previously.

However, some of the design choices do not make much sense. Normally more is more, but in this case more is less. The added functionality seems more of a gimmick, PF upgrade is to say the least questionable, and the new hub parts didn't improve enough over the 12 year old one, although admittingly they are a little more versatile. Aesthetically the model has some nice surfaces and a great looking front wing, but upon closer inspection it is a bit rough on the edges and the tires are too small. The result is that other parts also end up out of proportion.

Overall it's a good model, but due to some flaws it doesn't have the potential to become a real classic, a must buy that you just need to have in your collection. It provides however a satisfying build and some useful parts for those who want to expand their collection.

6. The Ratings

   as value for the parts inventory
   as value for the building experience
   as value for the functionality and playability ( for the added value with PF)
   for set innovation
   for parts innovation
   for aesthetics
   for value for money

Overall rate: Good

HispaBrick Magazine 016

2013-04-03T23:23:00.001+01:00

HispaBrick Magazine celebrates its 5th anniversary with its latest issue HBM016.

The magazine comes packed with articles for all types of LEGO fans, and as usual, there is a generous share of articles that are of special interest to Technic and MINDSTORMS fans.

There are two MINDSTORMS specific articles, part 13 in the ongoing tutorial on MINDSTORMS which, in this issue, focuses on LabView for MINDSTORMS and an article on the evolution of MINDSTORMS, from the very beginning to the upcoming EV3.

There is also what promises to be the first in a series of articles on LEGO WeDo, an introduction to robotics with a set that, while aimed at a younger public, has a lot of potential for older builders too.

Another article of special interest to TBs readership is an interview with Yoshihito Isogawa, the author of Tora no Maki, which any die-hard Technic fan will have, either in PDF or in hard copy.

Last but not least, Eric "Blakbird" Albrecht has contributed to this issue with the second part of his tutorial on POV-Ray.

And of course there are many more articles, so download your copy now, either in English or in Spanish.

Enjoy the read and don't forget to leave some feedback!

Week TechVideo, 2013 #13 - Happy Easter!

2013-03-31T23:27:00.000+01:00

Matthias Paul Scholz is amongst the MCPs who have received one MINDSTORMS EV3 kit for beta testing.
Here is a teaser from the rabbit he made to wish you an Happy Easter!

We want to see more like this!

Disclaimer:

Please avoid sending requests to post specific models on this TBs section.

We understand some of you would enjoy to see your creations featured here, but please understand that because only one video gets highlighted per week, it is impossible to accommodate all the great MOCs continuously build by the Technic builders out there. They simply won't fit all and that's also not the purpose of this blog (see the header statement).

Many of your MOCs are scanned anyway and listed for later publication when they do not fit immediately. However some remain in the backlog queue just for too long and eventually loose the relevance or the publication opportunity window. As a rule of thumb, we also avoid publishing MOCs that have been featured by their authors or other fans at some other great web places dedicated to the Technic community out there. It doesn't mean that occasionally some won't get published here anyway.

Thanks for your understanding!

Crowkillers' Porsche 997 GT3 building instructions available

2013-03-27T10:28:00.000Z

It is not the news of the day... but it was not mentioned here at TBs before. Although it is still worth to do!

Blakbird prepared the Building Instructions for Paul Boratko's Porsche 997 GT3 (another of his great 1:10 supercar models) an it is available to order online here, for the small amount of $12.

There was also an eBay auction running for a built model of this, but I was not able yo publish it in time anymore. The winning bid was $550.00 though. Not very expensive this time, for this kind of Paul's car auctions I'd say.

Week TechVideo, 2013 #12 - Sacek Milling Machines

2013-03-24T23:48:00.000Z

In the recent past we have seen several milling machines made with LEGO MINDSORMS, by Arthur Sacek [1, 2]. This week he published a "remake" from is original work in this area, built in 2005.

A LEGO RCX Lathe, built for an educational event... it was the beginning of the LEGO milling machines.

Amazing work! Loved the idea of a combination with the line automatic recognition and reproduction with the lathe.

Disclaimer:

Please avoid sending requests to post specific models on this TBs section.

We understand some of you would enjoy to see your creations featured here, but please understand that because only one video gets highlighted per week, it is impossible to accommodate all the great MOCs continuously build by the Technic builders out there. They simply won't fit all and that's also not the purpose of this blog (see the header statement).

Many of your MOCs are scanned anyway and listed for later publication when they do not fit immediately. However some remain in the backlog queue just for too long and eventually loose the relevance or the publication opportunity window. As a rule of thumb, we also avoid publishing MOCs that have been featured by their authors or other fans at some other great web places dedicated to the Technic community out there. It doesn't mean that occasionally some won't get published here anyway.

Thanks for your understanding!

TBs TechPoll 37 - 2012, 4th Quarter - Favorite week TechVideos

2013-03-23T16:34:00.000Z

We are almost in the 2nd quarter of 2013, and 2012 Q4 TechVideo poll was still to run... But it is never too late.
Vote the videos weekly featured here at TBs during the above mentioned quarter.

In the next two weeks you can choose your favorite video(s) among those highlighted here during the 4th quarter from 2012, under the 'Week TechVideo' tag.

Here are the videos posted within this period:

Week TechVideo, 2012 #40 - Bell UH-1 Huey (Steph77)
Week TechVideo, 2012 #41 - Caterpillar 963D Track Loader (Makorol)
Week TechVideo, 2012 #42 - Hitachi ZW 310 Wheel Loader (dfs473)
Week TechVideo, 2012 #43 - New Holland W230C wheel loader (55techniclego)
Week TechVideo, 2012 #44 - Sardo's Auto-valve (Sardo)
Week TechVideo, 2012 #45 - LPE Inline-4 with NXT-controlled valve timing (DrDudeNL)
Week TechVideo, 2012 #46 - Feller Buncher (Thirdwigg)
Week TechVideo, 2012 #47 - Blending LEGO with real objects
Week TechVideo, 2012 #48 - Crossbow (InfraBlue74)
Week TechVideo, 2012 #49 - 4-speed remote controlled gearbox (Lesley Hisgen)
Week TechVideo, 2012 #50 - Lego Technic tractor JCB 2155 with rake Fella TS 4000 (corne723)
Week TechVideo, 2012 #51 - PF RC Ferrari 458 Italia Spider 1:10 (brunojj1)
Week TechVideo, 2012 #52 - 1:12 Spitfire (Thirdwigg)

As usual you can vote for more than one video, if they reflect your preference.

Notes:
- This video poll does not aim to select the best MOC, but rather well done videos featuring a LEGO Technic model, a nice video reportage from a Technic subject as part of an AFOL event, or some cool/innovative thing with interest for the Technic fans community.
- These are videos that somehow caught my eye at some point, thus based on a personal choice, and do not intend in any way to be considered as the best representatives from the work done by the Technic fans.
- Please notice, this is a poll taken for the fun of it. The authors of the videos here featured are not rewarded, independently of the final rank position they will achieve.

Exclusive co-creation model 41999 unveilead

2013-03-22T13:59:00.003Z

Today Jeppe unveils the new Exclusive co-creation model (winner of the LEGO Technic 2012 Competition) at the official LEGO Technic blog and we got to know its reference is gonna be 41999.

Here also the sneak preview!
YOU DESIGN IT! THEY MAKE IT! Gorgeous!

Do you see the differences? There are quite a lot!

The Dark Blue elements look great! Do I see a kind of silver shade in the border of the rims? Can it be, or is it just a lighting effect
Six different panels in the new color at least. Inclusive the newer version of the 11x3 Curved Panel.

Did you still remember this?

Week TechVideo, 2013 #11 - Another Auto-Pump design

2013-03-17T23:44:00.000Z

For several occasions we have been featuring here diverse proposed designs for Electric Valves [1] and Auto-Valves/Pumps [2, 3, 4, 5] as developed by different builders.
Today I'd like to highlight another recent design for an Auto-Pump by Jernej Krmelj (Zblj), which I found very compact and useful.

Please notice the render on the left does not use the actual pneumatic switch but a brick base representation of it, as it is likely not available at LDD.

It seems to me, probably the most lean design for an Auto-Pump that I've seen so far. What do you think of this concept?

Disclaimer:

Please avoid sending requests to post specific models on this TBs section.

We understand some of you would enjoy to see your creations featured here, but please understand that because only one video gets highlighted per week, it is impossible to accommodate all the great MOCs continuously build by the Technic builders out there. They simply won't fit all and that's also not the purpose of this blog (see the header statement).

Many of your MOCs are scanned anyway and listed for later publication when they do not fit immediately. However some remain in the backlog queue just for too long and eventually loose the relevance or the publication opportunity window. As a rule of thumb, we also avoid publishing MOCs that have been featured by their authors or other fans at some other great web places dedicated to the Technic community out there. It doesn't mean that occasionally some won't get published here anyway.

Thanks for your understanding!

TBs TechReview 21 - 42002 Hovercraft

2013-03-15T01:06:00.000Z

Set reference: 42002
Set name: Hovercraft
Theme: LEGO Technic
Release date: 2013.Jan

Number of parts: 170 (plus a few spares)

LEGO Designer: Alfredo (Alfred Pedersen)

Model under review: Main model and B-model
Weight: 270 g (9.52 oz)
Approximate set dimensions:
Length - 18 cm (7.1")
Width - 8 cm (3.1")
Height - 9 cm (3.5")
Approximate box dimensions:
Length - 26 cm (10.24")
Width - 14 cm (5.51")
Height - 4.6 cm (1.81")

Stickers: Yes
Building instructions: 2 booklets included
Main model (56 pages with 27 major building steps): 1/2
B-model (40 pages with 34 major building steps): 2/2
B-model: Plane

Recommended for ages: 8-14
Building difficulty level: Easy
Estimated building time: 45m - 1,5h

Price range: 20€
Price per part: 11.76 euro cents

Inventory (BrickLink): : Link
Inventory (Peeron): Link (when available)
Other user reviews (Brickset): Link

Along with the 42010 Off-road Racer/42011 Race Car duo (reviewed here), here we have the smallest set for the semester. It represents a black hovercraft, which, judging by the relative size of the seat and the propeller, as well as the stickers, is a small racing vehicle, not one of the large transports (like one of the models for the 4997 Transport Ferry).

Although the colour is a bit subdued for a racing vehicle, it's actually not bad: practically all parts are black, with some greys here and there, and the traditional blue for Technic seats. Unlike other sets (9398, I'm looking at you), there is no colour clash peeking from underneath the exterior elements.

There are plenty of stickers, both big and small. They add a lot of detail, like racing decals, air intakes and exhausts, and the ribs of the skirt in the sides. Although personally I don't like stickers (they reduce a part's "MOCability") and the model would probably still look nice without them, they favourably contribute to the look of the machine.

Despite its small size, it is still larger than the first-semester "entry level" sets of past years. Judging by the rumours, this year sees the smallest set, the 42001 Mini Off-Roader, released on the second semester instead.

Its two functions are linked to the same action. When it is rolled along the floor (perhaps it floats, but it shouldn't do that very well and I don't want to try), wheels hidden underneath spin the rear propeller and make a V2 engine work. The wheels are at the front, while the rear is supported by a pair of plates with rounded bottom. With time and play, these plates will eventually wear down, but I kind of understand the decision behind this arrangement: with traction at the front and freedom to skid at the rear, it's easy to play with the model, making it turn and spin realistically.

Like other models by Alfred (the 8264 Hauler and the 8071 Bucket Truck come to mind), great attention has been given to the general shape. The hovercraft feels solid, its proportions feel right, and the rounded shapes both look good on this kind of vehicle and are a welcome variation to the generally angular models we see made from LEGO parts. The two ribbed hoses at the front, together with the stickered beams at the sides, make for a convincing skirt.

1. The package and contents

When I held the box for the first time, I immediately noticed how heavy it was. Not that it really is that heavy in the absolute sense, but, for the typical weight of a small Technic set, its box is quite small. For example, the 8046 Helicopter, which has a similar ranking among the sets of its year, has a much larger box. I welcome this change, as that means the box takes less space on shelves (both at the shop and at home), and we receive less Billund air.

The front of the box has the typical elements: the LEGO and Technic logos (in case you weren't sure about what it was), a big photo of the model in action, the set reference and recommended age bracket, the "2 models in 1" stamp we've been getting since not long ago, and a detail of the set's functionality.

The top shows the usual 1:1 image for scale: in the case of the 42002, it's the rudder.

The rear is surprisingly bare: it shows again the "2 models in 1" stamp, a picture of the plane B-model, and a smaller picture of the A-model indicating that the parts for one are used to build the other. There are no other images or details, and an inexperienced potential buyer gets no idea about what the B-model does.

As usual for sets of this size, the box is opened by tearing up one of its sides. Inside we find that the box is tightly packed with instruction booklets (unlike larger sets, instructions for both models are included), the DSS, three unnumbered bags with the parts, and a loose rigid hose.

2. The new parts

There are no new parts in this set (or else it wouldn't be featured in the latest TechReverse Challenge), although the Pins 3/4 now come in tan instead of dark bluish grey. I don't understand this change, as Pins 1/2 (the part builders could confuse it with) only come in either light bluish grey or blue.

3. The parts assortment

This being a small set with no new parts for 2013, not much is to be expected. With that in mind, the Wedge Belt Wheels and their tyres aren't very common nowadays. The engine block parts and the numerous panels (6) should appeal to MOCers too. cheese graters are an unusual sight in Technicland and are helpful for adding detail without resorting to stickers.

4. Building experience

When I opened up the instruction booklet, I was greeted with a similar image as Jetro did. And people complained about few parts per step... Now there are even instructions on how to follow the instructions on how to build the model!

Building the model is an enjoyable experience, with no hard or repetitive steps. The hardest part is applying the stickers: aligning them correctly with the large panels is no easy feat. Rather than showing you images of the half-built model, how about showing it building itself? This is the first time I do this, so please forgive me for the general lack of quality.

However, one thing baffles me: the rear assembly for the transmission is held on one side by a 2L axle, while the other by an axle pin with friction... Could the extra axle or axle pin be needed for the B-model? That's the main reason I decided to build and review it along with the A-model.

In the end, after assembling everything and applying all stickers, it's done.

Besides the stickers, the set includes a printed tile for the dashboard. While it is a nice touvh of detail, I'd rather have a yoke there for the pilot to steer the vehicle.

These are the spare parts that were left.

5. Functionality and playability

Like was said at the introduction, pushing the hovercraft along a surface activates its two functions: spinning the propeller and moving the cylinders on the V2 engine.

The wheels connect to a longitudinal axle at the bottom via a 20T bevel gear and a 12T double bevel, which then bring the notion towards the rear. There, another 12T meshes with a 20T above it to bring motion to the cylinders. This 20T connects to a third 12T, which finally drives the propeller. This gives a global ratio of 1:1 for the engine and 1:1.67 for the propeller. The 20T on the wheels is oriented such that, when we push the hovercraft forward, the propeller spins in the correct direction mandated by its pitch (it pushes instead of pulling).

There's also a pseudo-function: the seat is connected to the structure only by an axle, and is free to rotate around it. This makes it able to pivot forward like the front seats in compact cars do, when passengers need to access or leave the back seat. But anyway I believe this is more a side-effect of the model than an intended feature.

6. The B-model

The B-model is a prop plane. Judging by the dimensions of the cockpit, I’d say it’s a sports model. Its function is to move the V2 engine when the propeller as spinned. Unlike the A-model, there’s gearing up from the propeller to the engine, instead of gearing down; I guess airplane propellers spin slower than hovercraft propellers, or maybe their engines run at higher RPM.

The general shape is good for a B-model. I expected the undercarriage to make the engine and propeller work like on the A-model, but admittedly that would certainly be too complex with the available parts.

What I really don’t like about the model is the feeble connection between the engine and the rest of the fuselage. As you can see below, they are connected by a single pin long with friction on each side, then partially supported by two transverse above and below. Even though the wings help reinforce this connection, this is still not enough and the engine assembly tilts slightly forward. The undercarriage has a similar, yet not as noticeable, problem: it attaches to the fuselage way back under the seat, and merely touches the 5L beam above it.

It’s interesting that the instructions explicitly tell you to put stickers in odd places, like where the instrument panel is expected to be located, or above the landing gear. This is because those stickered parts are in more relevant positions on the A-model, and this way we don’t have to take out and put them back on when we disassemble one and assemble the other.

As expected, there are quite a few leftover parts. Remember what I wrote previously, about the strange choice of parts for attaching the A-model’s rear assembly? Here is the photo again, for reference, as well as a "portrait" of the parts.

Notice anything odd? That’s right, the very same 2L axle and axle pin with friction are there, at the “earrings”! So, the hypothesis of the two distinct parts being needed for the B-model goes out the window. Then, why such a weird design decision? A mistake when determining the parts inventory and instructions? The result of coming close to the budget limit and trying to cut on as many corners as possible while maintaining looks and functions? Who knows…

7. Final thoughts

I was pleasantly surprised by this set. While on paper its functions are nothing to launch fireworks for (what else would you be expecting at this price range?), they are well implemented and on a model that is a pleasure to look at and to swoosh around.

I'm still baffled at the part choice for attaching the rear assembly, and I'll be sure to ask the reason for it if I ever get the chance to get in touch with the designer and/or the rest of the Technic team.

The B-model has okay functions (for a B-model), but its flimsiness really doesn't taste like "official LEGO model". I didn't have any regrets when I decided I'd disassemble it and rebuild the A-model instead for the event my LUG will be hosting on April.

Another thing I didn't like much is the amount and size of the stickers. While they add realism, they reduce reusability and young kids might have a hard time placing them correctly.

Finally, while I was building the set, I noticed something not related to the model. You probably know how hard it is to insert thin 1x2 beams on axles and to take them... apparently TLG redesigned slightly that part to be slide more smoothly. However, it introduces some serious backlash, which I don't remember experiencing with "old" versions of the part. While being easier to assemble and disassemble is good, personally I prefer "sticky" parts that won't wobble.

8. The Ratings

Being positioned among the lower ranks of this year's Technic line-up, this set gives expectedly good value for money, its theme is unusual (just look how few Technic watercraft sets there are), and the design is great. The areas where the set is poorer are the B-model and the parts innovation (the most noteworthy parts are the panels and the wheels, plus there are no new parts).

as value for the money
for parts innovation
for set innovation
for set design
for functionality and playability

Overall rate: Good

Like I wrote in the previous section, this is globally a good set. Kids will like playing with it, and adults will like having it on display. Its compact size and small price also help in making the purchase decision easier.

TBs TechChallenge, 2012 - Reverse 42002 - The results

2013-03-13T06:31:00.000Z

...........................................................................................

I know I'm late like no one. No excuses about that!...

While I'm quite shamed with my delay, I really had an hard time to evaluate the mismatches on the submissions to the 4th TBs TechREVERSE Challenge.
The challenge was specially difficult this time (we knew it since the beginning) and because of that, all the submissions had a huge load of mismatches. So that it turned virtually impossible to make an evaluation without a certain amount of personal judgement and subjectivity.
From the beginning I thought the B-model should have been easier. Now I'm sure it should have been the one used for the challenge this time.

When evaluating the individual interpretations of the 42002 Hovercraft, it came almost always to a point where the differences were so significant, that it turned quite difficult to count which parts were missing, in excess, or misplaced... And such evaluation may have an influence on the number of mismatches counted ahead.
For three of the entries I was not able to consistently count further, once I reached the inner part of the model. At least one was not even functional and some parts were also loose or overlapping.

As we got three different sets for the prizes this time, the relative ranking among the participants would make a difference, which turns accurate scoring even more important. But unfortunately this was not possible at all.
Because it was not possible to evaluate most of the submissions thoroughly till the end, I had to make some subjective evaluation to rank a few entries relative to the others, while trying to be fair with everyone.

Firstival for those contestants who may also want to check their own submissions, here it is the link to download the official building instructions for 42002. Also the parts list from this model can be found at the end of these instructions.

This year we got 4 valid submissions at contest, which despite being quite less than in the previous TechREVERSE edition, it also reflects the increased difficulty of the Challenge, but mainly the fact that we had to anticipate the end date for submissions. For this reason we also got a submission after this revised period.
As previously announced [1, 2] TBs got some sets to prize those who have made the best guesses on how to build the model under contest. These are, one 42006 Excavator, one 42007 Moto Cross Bike for the 2nd place and a couple of 42002s for the next two.

These will be shipping very soon and meanwhile I'll leave you again with a group photo below.
As it is already a tradition from TechREVERSE, you will get each box signed by the respective Designer, which is another prize in itself - 42002 by Alfred Pederson, 42007 by Aurélien Rouffiange and 42006 by Michael Jeppesen. Hope you can appreciate the exclusiveness of these prizes.

For the second time there were accepted three different tools for the participants to build their entries and submit them to the Challenge (LDraw, LDD and SR3D Builder).
Although only two of them were used by the contestants this time.

The mistakes were quite different among participants this time, as a significant part of the model was well hidden behind all the panels, on the only image available at the time.
Because everyone took a different approach representing the flexible hoses and all had one or another difference to the actual model, or used different tools which didn't not allow to compare all at the same level, I've decided to register the potential mismatches but not count them.

You may find the details at the evaluation PDF file, available here.

As I mentioned above the evaluation took is part of subjectivity (namely between the 2nd and 3rd), but there was a clear winner for this challenge! This was also the only one which was fairly easy to keep counting mismatches till the 1st building step.
If you want to compare the different submissions I'm having the links to download the several submissions, ahead in this post.

And now I must finally disclose that the winning submission was entered by... Nathanaël Kuipers (Industrial Designer) who will receive the first prize.

The overall classification for all entries and prizes is the following,

1st - Nathanaël Kuipers (Industrial Designer), SE - 42006 Excavator
2nd - Luc Worms (Luc2000), NL - 42007 Moto Cross Bike
3rd - Algirdas Lašas (Lashas),LT - 42002 Hovercraft
4th - Han Crielaard (Designer-Han), NL- 42002 Hovercraft

From the left to right, thei remaining renders in respective order.

Congratulations to everyone and thanks for participating into this 4th TBs TechREVERSE Challenge!

Unlike earlier said, given the difficulties above mentioned, I decided to not proceed counting mismatches of the fifth entry arriving after the Challenge closure, as it also has the same kind of differences to the actual model which would prevent me to reach the end and it would be pointless at this point.

Also, I'd like to thanks all those who made this Challenge possible once more:

The LEGO Technic Team, for the support and for providing the nice prizes.
And finally of course, all those who were engaged with this Challenge, either by sending their submissions or the enthusiasm joining the initiative by leaving their comments to the respective posts.

Hopefully we can repeat it again, with some 2014 model....

The prizes shipping costs are sponsored by TBs , with the revenue generated from the LEGO ads. Please do not forget to help us supporting these costs, whenever you do your LEGO purchases from shop.LEGO.com, accessing the LEGO online shop from the ads displayed in this blog.

PS: I'll hold the prizes shipping till the end of this wee, just in case someone wishes to raise a claim regarding the assessment of their mismatches/penalties and overall classification.

Week TechVideo, 2013 #09 - Is it long enough?

2013-03-03T23:53:00.000Z

It is not the first time we see something similar here... but I'm sure this one would delight someone reading here too!
Longer pneumatic cylinders would open an entire new range of possibilities and would avoid back-to-back assemblies for the sake of realism...

Here one produced by Jaap Kroon (JaapTechnic).

Some day, someone at LEGO will realize the fans are right about this!

Disclaimer:

Please avoid sending requests to post specific models on this TBs section.

We understand some of you would enjoy to see your creations featured here, but please understand that because only one video gets highlighted per week, it is impossible to accommodate all the great MOCs continuously build by the Technic builders out there. They simply won't fit all and that's also not the purpose of this blog (see the header statement).

Many of your MOCs are scanned anyway and listed for later publication when they do not fit immediately. However some remain in the backlog queue just for too long and eventually loose the relevance or the publication opportunity window. As a rule of thumb, we also avoid publishing MOCs that have been featured by their authors or other fans at some other great web places dedicated to the Technic community out there. It doesn't mean that occasionally some won't get published here anyway.

Thanks for your understanding!

3D Building Instructions made with Autodesk Inventor Publisher

2013-03-02T00:39:00.003Z

Autodesk has collaborated with TLG to provide 3D interactive building instructions for the upcoming LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3.
A new platform and a set of mobile apps, designed to introduce a younger generation to the excitement of building and programming robots.

The LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 set, as well as the 3D building instruction mobile apps and web instructions, will be available in the second half of 2013. Although the application based on Autodesk Inventor Publisher, was already demonstrated at LEGOWORLD Copenhagen, last month.

Looking forward to the day, where the LEGO Technic sets (at least the largest ones) will ship with similar kind of instructions. Being used once, it shouldn't be difficult to achieve for further LEGO sets.

Guess it will happen sooner or later, and better the sooner than the later!