[MOC] VEC-3 "Rhino"

[GarryTheMinifig]

 

Here's Garry, introducing the Variable Exploration Craft model 3, nicknamed "Rhino", though more for its slight resemblance to a rhinoceros beetle (and its appropriately somewhat clumsy flight capabilities) than anything to do with the majestic large african mammal, but don't tell him that.

 

Note the tail fins in the back. There's more to this than you might think.

 

The basis for this build was the legs, in particular the way they connect to the body involving these parts.  I feel like I got lucky with how sturdy this turned out to be, as unsupported single-stud connections can be incredibly delicate and fiddly, especially as far as moving parts are concerned.

 

...though the stability of the rear wheel connection seems to depend entirely on the individual tolerances of those stud/half-pin parts and how well they hold a bar through the pin end; I went through a few before finding some that held well enough.  There's almost certainly a better way to do this.

 

Everything I build needs some kind of flexible joint, now in the form of moving legs/suspension for tough terrain.

 

When the terrain is too tough, the VEC-3 can take to the air!  During the build, I thought the legs looked kind of like a quadcopter when they were spread out like this, so I worked in a simple transformation feature.

 

Finally the underside, for a better view of how it's built.  Full gallery with some more pics can be found here!

 

Edited January 23, 2018 by GarryTheMinifig

[Professor Thaum]

A great cross-country little one

looks like a moto jet but it is more cool IMHO

[GarryTheMinifig]

On 1/24/2018 at 4:46 AM, Professor Thaum said:

A great cross-country little one

looks like a moto jet but it is more cool IMHO

Thank you!  Cross-country or cross-planet, whichever one prefers.

[LEGO Train 12 Volts]

Original idea ...fantastic realization!

[GarryTheMinifig]

On 1/27/2018 at 10:38 AM, LEGO Train 12 Volts said:

Original idea ...fantastic realization!

Thank you! :>