[2016 Digital Design Contest] - Rules, prizes and questions

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  On 3/24/2016 at 10:28 AM, Calabar said:

You'll need to put up to two models in a single image, or any other combination that suits the rules. For example you can reserve a single image to show all the theme, and other images with one or more sets shown in more details or on the back side.

I suppose the five image limit is due to avoid enormous posts that are very difficult to browse.

So, that being said - in case I understood you right (fingers crossed once again as always with me and my english ) - the answer to this question of mine ("Can there be something like mosaic of several other renders of the same model into one picture showing its intended modularities...") is YES, IT CAN BE DONE AS MOSAIC (cos if we can have multiple models in one picture it means we can also have multiple shots of one model in one picture), right?

Edited March 24, 2016 by bublible

[Calabar]

Only Superkalle and legolijntje can answer this question.

I can suppose yes it is possible but maybe, to avoid overload, they decide that a single image can contain more models as a single scenario and not as separate elements or compositions, or maybe you can do what you want inside your image (limited by image size, obviously, as in EB the maximum size allowed is 1024x768 and 1MB, if I'm not wrong).

Let's wait an official answer!

Edited March 24, 2016 by Calabar

[___]

  On 3/24/2016 at 11:14 AM, Calabar said:

Only Superkalle and legolijntje can answer this question.

I can suppose yes it is possible but maybe, to avoid overload, they decide that a single image can contain more models as a single scenario and not as separate elements or compositions, or maybe you can do what you want inside your image (limited by image size, obviously, as in EB the maximum size allowed is 1024x768 and 1MB, if I'm not wrong).

Let's wait an official answer!

OK, we will wait then...

Anyway, that way one could make quite complex self-explanatory images of its model into one picture, and as we can link our image to its external bigger version (after clicking on that smaler image posted in contest here on EB) there would be no problem reading such complex image once opened in its full resolution externally.

For example I could make single image that would contain one main render of the model + several small pictures - lets say on its right side - showing it from different angles, showing its capabilities, modularity and so on - all in one single picture, so we would stick to the rules - max. 5 images and yet having it shown from different angles and other stuff!

BTW: Image dimension and size - thus overloading the site - would not be of any problem, of course (cos everybody can simply change their final image resolution so that its width is not bigger than those requested 1024 pixels with enabled ratio (so that its dimensions are not deformed) + rendered as jpg with not more than 80% quality it will never exceed 1MB. And as I think about it more it could be a good thing to make one of the rules exactly like this: expected picture format JPG, expected compression ratio/quality: not bigger than 80)

P.S.: I am doing one preview for all of you to show exactly what I mean cos one picture is more than 100 words, right? So please, wait a bit for it...

OK, here it is what I mean (this is example made of pictures from my already posted MOC 691512) - dimensions are in the requested limits, specifically in this case 1024x288, 108kb...once clicked it will open externally in its full native resolution 3840x1080 for perfect image readibility if one is concerned or interested about/in the image details, so this way 5 different models could be presented inside one post in the best possible way (or at least I personally think so) still being within rules and limits of the contest + maybe we could set like max. number and max. dimensions and exact placement for those smaller images inside the picture so it would not be that wide if you will tho I myself have no problem with the state it is pictured now (please, click the image for its full native resolution):

Edited March 24, 2016 by bublible

[Superkalle]

  On 3/24/2016 at 8:58 AM, bublible said:

Just to be sure I won't do anything wrong and that I understand things right:

Q1: I really do not know how to interpret this - how can 10 sets be presented in only 5 images? If it was vice-versa (5 sets on max 10 images) then I would understand it with no problem (every set would have 2 images) - @Superkalle, can you explain this more, please?

Another question:

Q2: Can there be something like mosaic of several other renders of the same model into one picture showing its intended modularities like this (maybe without the "explanatory" writings if you want):

And also:

Q3: What is the final conclusion about bricks in not existent color combinations? that is: existing bricks, existing LEGO colors but not existing combination?

Q1- The solution is to have several models presented in one image - just put them on the same "floor space" (as an example). Or make a patchwork of smaller images to make up the 1024x768 image. Please note - the idea with the max 5 image is to avoid that people plaster their post with a huge amount of pictures (we have to think of the voters too ). So five 1024*768 images is the real-estate you have, and I guess the challenge is to present and convey your theme in a nice an appealing way within that boundary. NOTE: That also means - don't link to a higher resolution picture. 5 times 1024x768 is what you have. It shouldn't be necessary for the voter to have to click on to a high-res picture to be able to appreciate the theme/models.

Q2 - yes, you can show functionality like you describe like an array of images/subsets in one image.

Q3 - The final conclusion is the same as what the rules say from the beginning: don't use combinations that doesn't exist as physcial bricks (i.e. what you could find at BrickLink). The whole idea is just to avoid all kinds of odd brick/color combinations. After all - LEGO design is about using a system of bricks and colors that has limitations. That's kind of the charm with it I suppose, even in the digital world.

[___]

  On 3/24/2016 at 12:37 PM, Superkalle said:

Q1- The solution is to have several models presented in one image - just put them on the same "floor space" (as an example). Or make a patchwork of smaller images to make up the 1024x768 image. Please note - the idea with the max 5 image is to avoid that people plaster their post with a huge amount of pictures. So five 1024*768 images is the real-estate you have, and I guess the challenge is to present and convey your theme in an nice an appealing way within that boundary.

Q2 - yes, you can show functionality like you describe like an array of images/subsets in one image.

Q3 - The final conclusion is the same as what the rules say from the beginning: don't use combinations that doesn't exist as physcial bricks (i.e. what you could find at BrickLink). The whole idea is just to avoid all kinds of odd brick/color combinations. After all - the LEGO hobby is about using a system of brick and colors that has limitations. That's kind of the charm with it I suppose, even in the digital world.

OK, thank you for explanation - that being said and guessing you also already saw mt example above I will make those 5 images the way my example shows (if I misunderstood you once again please tell me so I can ask more question if needed).

  On 3/24/2016 at 12:37 PM, Superkalle said:

NOTE: That also means - don't link to a higher resolution picture. 5 times 1024x768 is what you have. It shouldn't be necessary for the voter to have to click on to a high-res picture to be able to appreciate the theme/models.

Well, but in cases like my example shows - the one I am planing to use with my entries - it would be of logical use having such complex smaller picture (1024 max width) linked to its native higher resolution - why is that problem, was not the main and logical concern which I fully understand and support (being webdesigner myself) avoiding too high page overloading with many high resolution pictures?

Besides: why is it bad for one having further interest in the presented model before one decides if he give it his vote or not (is not the main purpose of it all - giving votes for models/themes presented?) in more detail and capabilities when it could be "the thing" that could tell him if it has any value for him or not? Please, remember that there are still some people that requires more than some static nice looking bricks that actually do nothing besides the build itself so for those there need to be some other stuff presented in the model, like possibilities of the model, modularity, different configs etc. - with such a small preview of 1024 pixels yet with such a density it would lost its intended reason: here is a small preview (where you simply cannot see the detail of those small pictures inside) and if you really care not just in the look but would like to see if it goes further than that (advanced stuff of the model) just click the image and you can see those smaller parts in great detail (it would not make any harm to EB site accesibility like too much overload or something as it is linked externally like normal text link we use everywhere)...

Edited March 24, 2016 by bublible

[Superkalle]

  On 3/23/2016 at 11:57 PM, Superkalle said:

There must be a FAQ somewhere here on EB about how to create links. I don't know to be honest - never had that question before. (if someone finds the FAQ, please post it here). Otherwise, you just mark the word you want to have as a link, then click the "link" button in the toolbar, and then paste the link to the post (the post link you can find by right clicking on the post count # to the right in the post banner.

A fellow Moderator kindly pointed out that the link to the FAQ is apparently in my own signature.

I guess it shows how good I am at this moderation stuff

[gedren_y]

I would like clarification. The rules allow for custom prints. What about parts, such as headgear, that in real bricks are printed for crowns, ears and other things? Can we change the printing color in program, if the base part is a color in which the part is available?

Edited March 24, 2016 by gedren_y

[Superkalle]

  On 3/24/2016 at 12:57 PM, bublible said:

OK, thank you for explanation - that being said and guessing you also already saw mt example above I will make those 5 images the way my example shows (if I misunderstood you once again please tell me so I can ask more question if needed).

Well, but in cases like my example shows - the one I am planing to use with my entries - it would be of logical use having such complex smaller picture (1024 max width) linked to its native higher resolution - why is that problem, was not the main and logical concern which I fully understand and support (being webdesigner myself) avoiding too high page overloading with many highe resolution pictures?

Besides: why is it bad for one having further interest in the presented model before one decides if he give it his vote or not (is not the main purpose of it all - giving votes for models/themes presented?) in more detail and capabilities when it could be "the thing" that could tell him if it has any value for him or not? Please, remember that there are still some people that requires more than some static nice looking bricks that actually do nothing besides the build itself so for those there need to be some other stuff presented in the model, like possibilities of the model, modularity, different configs etc. - with such a small preview of 1024 pixels yet with such a density it would lost its intended reason: here is a preview and if you really care not just in the look but would like to see if it goes further than that (advanced stuff of the model) just click the image and you can see those smaller parts in great detail (it would not make any harm to EB site accesibility like too much overload or something as it is linked externally like normal text link we use everywhere)...

Sure, you can make a patchwork of smaller images like you showed. I do realize the sub-images and text will be tiny, but maybe you can pick out just a few features/functions to highlight then?

About the max of five images (and not linking to high res pictures): Well, I'm thinking since there will be community vote, and let's say there is 40 entries. That means a total of 200 pictures for a voter to check through. I think that's more then enough. But I do understand what you mean, and linking is a good way to reduce bandwidth and at the same time allow users/voters to dive into details if the want. On the other hand, we just had to decide on a simple rule to make it the same for all. Also, don't forget, you are allowed to include a link to the LXF file(s), which would allow people to view the theme in any possible angle and detail. Sure, it won't make it so easy to show moveable feature etc (maybe), but still.

[___]

  On 3/24/2016 at 1:08 PM, Superkalle said:

...I do realize the sub-images and text will be tiny, but maybe you can pick out just a few features/functions to highlight then?

Yes, that is true: my preview was just quick "grab" of two separate already finished renders of my previous work put together to show what I mean, so in my real entries for the contest there would be like 4 or 6 small images at max, not those 12 as shown in my example above.

  On 3/24/2016 at 1:08 PM, Superkalle said:

About the max of five images (and not linking to high res pictures): Well, I'm thinking since there will be community vote, and let's say there is 40 entries. That means a total of 200 pictures for a voter to check through. I think that's more then enough. But I do understand what you mean, and linking is a good way to reduce bandwidth and at the same time allow users/voters to dive into details if the want. On the other hand, we just had to decide on a simple rule to make it the same for all. Also, don't forget, you are allowed to include a link to the LXF file(s), which would allow people to view the theme in any possible angle and detail. Sure, it won't make it so easy to show moveable feature etc (maybe), but still.

OK, thank you, so I will make it like my preview...ehm, also many times I think it is just a case of misunderstanding between us cos in fact we are saying basically the same thing.

[Superkalle]

  On 3/24/2016 at 1:03 PM, gedren_y said:

I would like clarification. The rules allow for custom prints. What about parts, such as headgear, that in real bricks are printed for crowns, ears and other things? Can we change the printing color in program, if the base part is a color in which the part is available?

Hm, interesting question. I don't know if ears etc are printed with tampo print technique, or painted on (even hand-painted for some parts). But I guess it shouldn't matter for this contest and what is meant by "print", so unless legolijntjes objects, I would say yes to your question. Now, for co-injected parts though, you have to stick with the colors that exist as physcial bricks (gotta draw the line somewhere).

[gedren_y]

Thank you. I understand about dual-molded parts.

[CM4Sci]

  On 3/24/2016 at 1:24 PM, Superkalle said:

Now, for co-injected parts though, you have to stick with the colors that exist as physcial bricks (gotta draw the line somewhere).

Wait, does that mean arms and legs on minifigures orrrr...?

[Superkalle]

  On 3/24/2016 at 2:37 PM, CM4Sci said:

Wait, does that mean arms and legs on minifigures orrrr...?

What do you mean....are those coinjected?

[nine09nueve]

Please may I ask some questions, Rules Bosses?

  On 3/22/2016 at 1:11 PM, Superkalle said:

Your models should be new and not posted before on the internet.

Does this mean that we can post in other places AFTER posting here first? As long as first WWW posting is here on the correct EB LDD Quiz forum?

  On 3/22/2016 at 1:11 PM, Superkalle said:

NOTE: This is a digital building contest, so you have to build on your PC/Mac, although you may off course build it with real bricks afterwards and showcase that too.

Where would we showcase this? As a "normal" post somewhere on EB presumably?

Also... if we are designing an LDD project with moving parts - are we allowed to post a (small) video, to show the LDD working IRL? If so, where would this video go?

Finally (sorry if this is obvious but its my first competition) can we update/change/modify/improve the pictures up to the closing date of the competition? Or once we've posted that's it?

thanks and what a great competition idea!

Much love

D

*edit: 1 question already answered by a superstar!

Edited March 24, 2016 by nine09nueve

[Umbra-Manis]

  On 3/24/2016 at 4:52 PM, nine09nueve said:

How can we do this? (never attached a digital file to a EB post before!)

I can answer this one. EB has a very limited capacity for attachments, so the best thing to do is upload the file somewhere else. I recommend Bricksafe.

[nine09nueve]

  On 3/24/2016 at 5:01 PM, Umbra-Manis said:

I can answer this one. EB has a very limited capacity for attachments, so the best thing to do is upload the file somewhere else. I recommend Bricksafe.

Thanks UM - I'll edit my original question as still need an answer to the other two! :D

[Superkalle]

  On 3/24/2016 at 5:04 PM, nine09nueve said:

Thanks UM - I'll edit my original question as still need an answer to the other two! :D

Yes, you can post your entries somewhere else after they have been added here first.

I think the rules already quite clearly answers your question about updating entries during the contest, so check them out again and read carefully

[nine09nueve]

  On 3/24/2016 at 5:46 PM, Superkalle said:

Yes, you can post your entries somewhere else after they have been added here first.

I think the rules already quite clearly answers your question about updating entries during the contest, so check them out again and read carefully

sorry - i added that as an afterthought without thinking... I spotted the answer now! *blush*

Any decision on my other question?

"Also... if we are designing an LDD project with moving parts - are we allowed to post a (small) video, to show the LDD working IRL - as proof that it would work IRL? If so, where would this video go?"

[DraikNova]

  On 3/24/2016 at 12:37 PM, Superkalle said:

Q3 - The final conclusion is the same as what the rules say from the beginning: don't use combinations that doesn't exist as physcial bricks (i.e. what you could find at BrickLink). The whole idea is just to avoid all kinds of odd brick/color combinations. After all - LEGO design is about using a system of bricks and colors that has limitations. That's kind of the charm with it I suppose, even in the digital world.

That's strange...I could have sworn the rules were originally different. I mean, considering how many new parts and recolors a given new theme may introduce, isn't that a rather strange rule? Keeping your parts selection to something LEGO would actually do is almost certainly something people would take into account when casting their votes anyway.

[Superkalle]

  On 3/24/2016 at 5:50 PM, nine09nueve said:

sorry - i added that as an afterthought without thinking... I spotted the answer now! *blush*

Any decision on my other question?

"Also... if we are designing an LDD project with moving parts - are we allowed to post a (small) video, to show the LDD working IRL - as proof that it would work IRL? If so, where would this video go?"

For the contest entry, you are not allowed to post videos (or links to videos) there - only images are allowed.

If you want to make a video and post somewhere else (like in the Comment topic) to perhaps get comments or input from fellow builders, that's OK.

[nine09nueve]

  On 3/24/2016 at 7:46 PM, Superkalle said:

For the contest entry, you are not allowed to post videos (or links to videos) there - only images are allowed.

If you want to make a video and post somewhere else (like in the Comment topic) to perhaps get comments or input from fellow builders, that's OK.

Okay - all understood! It wasn't going to be a long / big video... just proof that what I've built works :D

[Superkalle]

  On 3/24/2016 at 7:31 PM, DraikNova said:

That's strange...I could have sworn the rules were originally different. I mean, considering how many new parts and recolors a given new theme may introduce, isn't that a rather strange rule? Keeping your parts selection to something LEGO would actually do is almost certainly something people would take into account when casting their votes anyway.

It was actually in the rules from day one.

About your comment - I can understand and respect your argument - I mean, now that we have a digital contest, why not allow the use of any part/color combo? Right? And like you say - LEGO can introduce new colors with a new theme, so why can't we? Well, I guess the idea with the contest was/is to keep digital building somehow connected to the challenges you face with physical building and not let it drift too far off with all kinds of fantasy color combos. So we just made the decision to have this limitation when we launched the contest. Also I guess it was to have a simple and easy-to-follow rule. Otherwise we'd find ourselves in endless debates about how many new brick/color combos one could use etc.

[CM4Sci]

Wait, what?

I swear that wasn't there before. I read the rules at least 4 times when this started, that was not there. I just finished the figures for my theme... can I show you them for approval or something? These took a lot of time to make.

Edited March 24, 2016 by CM4Sci

[adotnamedstud]

I understand that there are limitations, but could an entry be accepted if we list which parts NEED recolors? For the sake of accuracy? My sets are based on a colorful license and that'd really stink if it cannot be accurate, I did think that LEGO tries to be accurate when making sets. Maybe we could discuss this over PM's?

[Superkalle]

This is the rule I'm referring to, and it's been there from the start. I even went back to look at the draft we did before launching the contest, and it's the same wordings:

"Although it's possible to use all brick/color combinations when building digital, to keep it fair, use only released color/part combinations, i.e. what can be find on BrickLink."

Neither me nor legolijntes, are going to go through the entries to check so that all brick/color combos exist in real life, so you need to do that yourself. And no, we're not going to disqualify someone for missing to spot a single little brick that is in an unreleased part/color combo, but if it's too many or too obvious I'm sure either we, or someone else, will see it.

And don't forget you can use any decorations/stickers as described in the rules to add color accents too.