[HELP] Designing a MOC and Acquiring Required Pieces

[Geekphysique]

And what a cool display! I remember the photo from the "show us your work space" thread. I can see why you rather buy spare parts instead.

Just don't be tempted to buy sets for spares, because you know where they will end up.

I've already committed to buying a couple of sets as spares this year, mostly for parts but also because the b models are interesting (Arctic truck for instance).

Agreed. In addition, you want to consider weight, which digital building can't help you with. Especially if you are building something in the 1800 to 2000 range. Based on your statement about actuators, etc. I assume that you'll be focusing alot on function . Where weight becomes even more important.

Weight is a concern. I had problems using pneumatics previously because they couldn't support the weight without many of them.

I have 4 models total that I would like to build in the next year or so, and all 4 will have similar challenges with weight.

[Lipko]

LDD is good to quickly sketch up ideas, gearboxes (yup!) and an overall silhouette of the model. I always start with LDD, but I prototype the concepts very early (I never make full models in LDD first). So LDD and real building goes hand in hand.

[Legorigs]

Leocad migth be an alternative to LDD.

[nerdsforprez]

Weight is a concern. I had problems using pneumatics previously because they couldn't support the weight without many of them.

I have 4 models total that I would like to build in the next year or so, and all 4 will have similar challenges with weight.

Yea....when you think about 2-3,000 pieces, especially with battery boxes or other PF elements, things can really add up in terms of weight. Just be aware of this if you are relying on LDD or other software.

Although I like your post and I think it is good to discuss, I don't really think there is a right or wrong way to build. Until very recently, I have never used LDD or other software. There certainly is a learning curve, but now that I am using it, it is only for crude prototype stuff.... not the final product. I still find it very limiting, but could have never found out this without trial and error. Everyone has a certain style....learn what works best for you and go from there.....

In terms of buying bricks..... I agree what others have said about buying sets first up to a point. Once that point is crossed (and it is different for everyone) I think it is better to just shop for certain pieces. I have a relatively small "bank" of pieces, say 10,000 or so. But that is a great starting point for me. Occasionally I buy individual sets, but now I spend more time and money on BL orders. I find if I just buy sets I have too many valuable pieces just sitting around. Buy just one flagship (200$ or so) may get you thousands of pieces, but only a fraction of what you need. BL orders may only get you 1000 pieces for that amount of dough.... but get you what you need to get your MOC done.