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Found 15 results

  1. REVIEW - 42082 - ROUGH TERRAIN CRANE INTRODUCTION The biggest set of the second wave of 2018 sets is the Rough Terrain Crane. Actually, it is THE biggest Technic set ever, with 4057 parts, surpassing the 42055 - Bucket Wheel Excavator, which has 3929 parts. This set contains 128 parts more than the BWE. Which immediately raises the question; has TLG purposely made this set bigger, so it has the highest part count ever? The reason I am asking out loud, is that there has been some debate in the Technic Forum about the growing size of the sets, related to the functions. Some say that the part count is intentionally high, without adding significantly more (or better) functionality. While I do see a trend in sets getting bigger (i.e. higher part count, thus higher price), I don't think that TLG designers are filling their workday finding out ways to add lots of unnecessary parts. I do like to think that the style of building is adapting/evolving to the contemporary standards/requirements. Of course, I don't want to sound too naive, because at the end of the day, it's all 'bout the money. It's all 'bout the dun dun do do do dumb. I don't think it's funny to..... Anyway, why not use this review to dive into this delicate matter. Before we start I like to point out that I do like big sets. The experience of opening the box and seeing the plethora of parts is overwhelming. On the other hand, with Technic sets getting more and more expensive, I can understand that people stop buying the (bigger) sets. In this review, I simply want to find out if this set could have been made with, let's say, 3000-odd parts while maintaining the same functionality. Another thing I'd like to address in this review is the use of extra elements (playable items), like a chains, tools etc. There has been some debate about this in the Technic forum, so I like to give you my opinion. If you see this icon, you can click the image on the left or right side of the image, to cycle through alternative images. PICTURES Pictures can be clicked to view hi-res versions. More pictures can be found in my Flickr album. DISCLAIMER This set has been provided by the CEE Team of TLG. It's not my goal to promote this set. It's my goal to give you an honest opinion about it. Therefore, the opinion in this review is my own and is in no way linked to TLG. SET INFORMATION Number: 42082 Title: Rough Terrain Crane Theme: Technic Released: 2018 Part Count: 4.057 Box Weight: > 5kg (I forgot to weigh the box, because my kitchen scale couldn't handle it.) Box Dimensions: 57,5 cm x 47,2 cm x 16,5 cm Set Price (RRP): Ā£ / $ 299.99 / ā‚¬ 229,99 Price per Part: Ā£ / $ 0.074 / ā‚¬ 0,056 Links: Brickset, Bricklink So, with an RRP of 229 euro, the price per part comes down to 5,6 cent per part, which is a steal. It's even slightly less than the BWE (5,9 cents per part). This makes it one of the cheapest Technic sets in terms of price per part. Let's compare some stats with previous flagships. COMPARISON WITH OLDER SETS 2011 - 8110 - Unimog - 189 euro, 2048 parts, 9,3 cent per part. 2012 - 9398 - 4x4 Crawler - 169 euro, 1327 parts, 12,8 cent per part. 2013 - 42009 - Mobile Crane Mk II - 199 euro, 2606 parts, 7,7 cent per part. 2014 - 42030 - Volvo L350F - 219 euro, 1636 parts, 13,4 cent per part. 2015 - 42043 - Arocs - 199 euro, 2793 parts, which is 7,2 cent per part. 2016 - 42055 - BWE - 229 euro, 3929 parts, 5,9 cents per part. 2017 - 42070 - All Terrain Truck - 249 euro, 1862 parts, 13,4 cent per part. 2018 - 42082 - Rough Terrain Crane - 229 euro, 4057 parts, 5,6 cent per part. All of these sets have Power Functions, some more than others. The Volvo is literally packed with Power Functions, which explains the high price and low part count. A potential candidate for a comparison with the 42082 - Rough Terrain Crane is the 42009 - Mobile Crane Mk II. The 42009 packs 2606 parts for 7,7 cent per part, while the 42082 packs 4057 parts for 5,6 cent per part. So, the universally praised Mk II crane has a 37,5% increase in price per part. Or the 42082 has a 27,3% decrease in price per part, depending on how you want to look at it. That is 5 years ago, and I'm not taking inflation into account. In other words; for 30 euro extra you get 1451 extra parts. This comes down to 2,1 cent per parts, which isn't bad at all. Some of you might argue that this is not the way to compare two sets, but these numbers are based on RRP and part count, which are numbers we can work with. Since this set has four of the big Claas wheels, a gearbox, and not a lot of PF, I could also compare it to the 42070. But that set was way overpriced, so I don't think that would be fair. The average price of a part in a flagship, based on these 8 sets, is 9,4 cent. So for 229 euro you can expect 2155 parts. You get 1901 more than that. Thus drawing the preliminary conclusion that this set is big, but the price is more than reasonable. Of course, the original debate wasn't focused on the price per se, but whether the models are getting unnecessarily big. Let's carry on unboxing so we can find out. THE BOX The front of the box shows the model and its Power Functions components, a Battery Box and a Large Motor. No sign of new Powered Up elements yet. It also shows a picture of the model with an extended boom, measuring 100 cm high till the end of the boom and a chassis size of 48 cm long. Going by the size this isn't some two-bit crane. But size doesn't always matter. The box has the same width and height as last year's flagship (42070 - 6x6 All Terrain Truck), but it's a couple of centimeters deeper. INSIDE FLAP Like the 42070, this box also has the flap, common to flagship sets. The inside shows a big picture of the model, which is most likely almost 1:1 scale. It's pretty impressive, that's for sure. You can also see that the upper body with the boom can rotate freely, thus 360 degree. This means that most of the mechanics, and battery box, are probably placed in the upper body and not in the chassis. This makes sense, and we have seen it before. Another picture shows the boom can be raised up to 60 degrees. BACKSIDE The back is divided into two sections/sides. The left side shows the functions of the main model, while the right side shows the alternative model, a Mobile Pile Driver. I will express my love for the B-model later this review CONTENTS OF THE BOX The box contains: 1x Inner box 1x Sealed pack with two booklets and the sticker sheet 4x Rim 4x Tire 25x Numbered bags (8 of which are in the inner box) INNER BOX The inner box contains the sealed pack with instruction booklets and sticker sheet. And it contains the bags for steps 1 to 4. INSTRUCTION BOOKLETS Two instruction booklets. One for the chassis and one for the crane. Makes you wonder if one person can start building the chassis, while the other starts working on the crane. STICKER SHEET Quite a few stickers to decorate this model. A construction vehicle just isn't the same without black and yellow stripes. And of course, a bunch of stickers indicating how to operate the functions. POWER FUNCTIONS ELEMENTS A battery box and a large motor. TIRES These, so called Unimog Tires, seems to be very common nowadays, but they have only been used in two Technic sets before. RIMS Four big red rims, also used in the 42054 - Claas Xerion and the 42077 - Rally Car. TIRES ON RIMS Here a picture with the tires fitted on the rims. NUMBERED BAGS A total of 25 numbered bags. HIGHLIGHTED PARTS Actually there is only one interesting part in this set and that is the 11 x 11 Curved Gear Rack (or banana gear as some call them) from the 42055 - Bucket Wheel Excavator in a new color black. I am very happy that this gear has appeared in a color which can more easily be used in a MOC, for example an EV3 Robot Not sure why I forgot to take a picture of the part itself, but here is a picture of the subassembly. This set contains a total of eight of these curved gear racks. PART LIST A whopping 4.057 parts, but still only two pages with parts. THE BUILD Bags, bags, bags and more bags. Lucky for us, they are numbered. If you like a challenge, open all the bags and create a big unsorted pile. That will keep you busy for quite some time. I will simply go from step to step As expected we start with the chassis. And to be more precise; with the gearbox in the chassis. Really, orange pins?! Yes, really! Right off the bat, lots of gears are added to the chassis. A white clutch gear is used in the bottom of the chassis. This indicates that these gears/axles will be connected to the Power Functions. At the end of the first step the center of the chassis has finished. This chassis with center gearbox is kind of reminiscent of models like th 8110 - Unimog and the 8258 - Crane Truck. Lots of gears, densily packed in a small space. There's little room left. The bottom of the gearbox. This set contains the 5x7 frames in two colors, light bluish grey and black. This is what you can do with two different color frames. I am not really fond of these kind of solutions, but I understand it can be convenient. Ohhh, and then there's the green liftarms. Because we need green in a red vehicle. I reckon someone opened up the bucket with green dye, so we do need to use more of these of parts in green Actually, I am being semi-serious here. The Forest Machine uses these liftarms in green, so it's probably cost-effective to use them in multiple sets. We are seeing this with other parts as well. For example, the beforementioned orange 3L pins with bush and white 1L connector, etc. TLG tends to minimize the overall number of different parts used in (Technic) sets. I reckon this has something to do with optimizing their warehouse space. New parts are added every year and storage space is limited. Instead of using five different colors TLG uses one (maybe two) color. Doing this over the entire range of sets will save up a lot of space. Technic seems to be the ideal theme to use these kind of strategies. And it adheres to the "color vommit in the chassis" strategy. One of the wheel assemblies. As you can see there is no actual suspension. Not even pendular suspension. Which seems odd for an Rough Terrain Crane, but I am no expert. Here's the subassembly attached to the center of the chassis. An almost similar assembly attached to the other side. Instead of green liftarms, this one uses orange ones. This way you can more easily tell the sides apart. This is actually not a bad thing. I have mentioned it before, but I am actually a big fan of the color vommit approach. Altough I must admit that using these orange 3L pins with bush is definitely pusing it. Blue might have been a better choice, but that would have confliced with the Bugatti color scheme. Therefore, I think TLG made the decision to use orange in this as well. By the way; this set does also contain 40 of these 3L pins with bush in black. The picture below shows how you can align the wheels. After aligning them, you slide the 16T gear in position. When I was building the set, I wondered why there was space between the gear and the liftarm, but it soon made sense. A subassebly for the outriggers. I do like the design, but as with most outriggers on Technic models, they op...e....ra.....te.....ve......ry......slow......ly. I would love to show you a video of the outriggers, but since it's Tuesday now, I don't have enough time to lower them before the embargo date of this review Just kidding of course. They do take a while, but since they are outriggers I find this acceptable. As long as the other functions aren't that slow. The chassis with front and rear wheel assemblies, and the front and rear outriggers. This is what you would expect from a crane this size. No unncessary use of extra parts so far. Next stop is the V8 engine with white oil filter and orange propellor/fan. I really like the oil filter. It's simple, but it adds detail to the model. The choice of orange as the color for the propellor seems odd, but it's likely a safety precaution. The emphasize that this is a part you need to watch, since it will be rotating when you move the crane. Not entirely sure, but it must be something along these lines. After the engine you will be building the connection between the chassis and the upper structure (crane body). This is done by using eight curved gear racks and an ingenious system in between. Click on the images to construct the ring. At that point you will attach the rims and the chassis is done. Worth noting is that the wheel caps in the rims use a lot of extra parts. Per cap approximately 12 parts are used, which boils down to 48 extra parts, just for the caps. This picture will be very hard to shoot with the crane attached, so I will give it to you now. This model implements Ackerman Steering Geometry. Or Reversed Ackerman Steering. Or even Reversed Reversed Ackerman Steering hehe. Not sure what the consensus in the forum was. I am no expert on steering assemblies, but Ackerman Steering boils down to the inner wheels turning at a different angle than the outer wheels, due to the fact the outer wheels have to travel a wider diameter. Ackerman Steering is something Technic fans like to see in models. For more information I suggest you start with Wikepedia and go from there SECOND BOOKLET This is an interesting part in the build. Reminds us of the 8043 - Motorized Excavator. Admittedly, I didn't think of this myself, but it has been addressed in the forum. Since the two 20T Bevel Gear with Pinhole have been placed on opposite sides of the actuators, this results in them turning in a different direction when the boom is raised (or lowered). Basically, this means that when the boom is raised, one of the LA's extends, while the other retracts. If one of the 20T gears was placed the other way around, this problem would not occur. Of course, the turning direction of one of the axles feeding the LA should be reversed for this to work. Since the gears attached to the LA's only rotate a tiny fraction when raising the boom, it leads me to believe that this is a calculated flaw. In this video I try to demonstrate the issue at hand. You continue to work your way back to the rear of the superstructure. Again, lots of gears and space which will be filled with gearboxes. This is the point in the second booklet where you can't build any further, untill you finish the first booklet. At this stage you will attach the upper section to the chassis. The boom is really massive. Feels solid like a rock. I am impressed with the sturdyness of this boom. It does a lot of panels and H-frames, so it's only logical, but I was still impressed. No wormgear to extend the boom this time. The other side of the boom with a white clutch gear for safety. The boom attached to the crane. Needless to say I am having a hard time getting the entire boom in the picture. The back of the upper section is closed with panels. The black ones can be removed for easy access to the battery. There are two gearboxes on the top of the crane. The left (bottom) one is to switch between crane and chassis functions. The right (upper) one is to switch between raising/lowering the boom, extracting/retracting the boom and lowering/raising the hook. The chassis functions are rotating the super structure and raising/lowering the outriggers. COMPLETED MODEL It is rather difficult to shoot decent pictures in the photo studio. I sure hope sets won't get much bigger than this. Looking at this model, I think TLG has done a remarkable job with this Rough Terrain Crane. The black chassis, with red elements, combined with the red super structure looks spot on. Lots of technic gears and elements provide an interesting build. I love how the two (or three) gearboxes work together. Here you can clearly see the gearbox on this side of the chassis is used to rotate the crane. Because of the weight, the chassis tends to bend a little, but nothing to worry about. The boom of the crane can exend way more than this, but that makes is impossible for me to take pictures. A close up from the front of the vehicle. The cabin door swings open to reveal the interior of the cabin. And one from the reaar. I'm sorry I don't have anymore pictures of the completed model, but I think you have seen most of it. You can find out more by building it yourself FEATURES AND FUNCTIONS This model packs features you would expect from a mobile crane. Raising/Lowering the boom Extracting/Retracting the boom Raising/Lowering the hook Raising/Lowering the outriggers Four wheel (Ackermann) steering Working fake engine Other than that there are some details like two cabinets which can be opened to store some gear. TLG has even added some walls which can be turned into part of a house or cabin. OUTRIGGERS Okay, let's get this out of the way. The outriggers are slow, really slow. I turned them on this morning and when I came home from work, they were halfway. Obviously, I am joking...I didn't go to work today. It's not that bad, but it would be nice if they operated a wee bit faster. You do need to use the four plates for them to properly reach the ground. STEERING AND DRIVING For a set this size steering and driving work properly. Even better than I expected. CRANE The thing I am most impressed with are the crane functions. These work like a charm. And, unlike the 42043 - Mercedes Arocs, this gearbox (or rather gearboxes) is very easy to understand. One look at the stickers is all it takes to be able to operate this thing. It offers a ton of playability. Linking gearboxes, instead of direct connection to a motor, can cause some slack. This can be seen when turning the crane. But this is just a minor gripe, just like the outriggers. DOOR A nice detail is the sliding door. PLAYABLE ITEMS It's time to talk about the added playable items, like this toolbox. Some people don't feel this is necessary and some even seem to be a bit annoyed by it. I have addressed this in my 42069 - Extreme Adventure review where I state that I like these added details. And I still do. The Forest Machine also packs some extra's like a chainsaw, some logs etc. Actually, I see it in most of the Technic sets. What I have seen is that this greatly enhances playability for younger LEGO fans. I am absolutely aware that this is a 11+ set, so it is not designed for a 5-year old. But seeing a 5-year old play with these Technic models and use all the extra items in the set for his "story" makes you realise that by adding playable items to a Technic set, it suddenly becomes a set for all ages. So, a handful of extra parts might be enough to prepare a 5-year old for Technic enthusiasm later down the line. After all, he (or she) is the future Technic target audience. Therefore, I am 100% in favor of adding these little details to Technic sets, even if these sets are 11+. PART COUNT And now for the part count discussion. No doubt this model could have been made using less parts. It you take away the playable items, wheel caps, grey construction panel and outrigger plates, you already save a couple of hundred parts. In the old days a Technic model used to be liftarms with gears inside. These days are over. Models are becoming more and more realistically looking, which means that less of the interior is visible. This also goes for the boom for example. In the old days we would have seen the interior of the boom and now it's covered with panels. I am not convinced that TLG is deliberately adding parts to the boom just to have more parts. I think TLG is doing this because they need to compete with other toys in the stores and these toys look like the real thing. Therefore TLG wants its models to look more like the real thing to, resulting in adding panels and other embellishments. Granted, TLG's marketing department won't mind having the biggest Technic set every year, so they can use this in Ads. Like I said in the introduction; I am a fan of big sets. I love putting together a 4057 part set. But I reckon people are more upset about the price of bigger sets than the part count. This can be a false assumption, because I know not all AFOLs think like this. But if TLG had used 3057 parts instead of 4057 they could have easily maintained the same RRP. 3000 parts at 229 euro is 7,6 cents a piece, which is still rather cheap. So my conclusion is that TLG might have upped the part count a bit, but still presented this set at a very affordable price. We already see this set popping up for around 179 euro, which boils down to 4,5 cent a piece, which is extremely affordabl for a Technic set. For me it would have been an issue if TLG priced this set at 349 euro RRP. Then I would have figured TLG was doing it on purpose. Basically, this is a UCS-like Technic set and you get it for 229 euro, or less if you do some online shopping. Personally, I think this is extremely good value for money. Of course your mileage may vary, but this is how I see things. B-MODEL The B-model, a Mobile Pile Driver, is a cop out, nothing more, nothing less. I mean, seriously?! 4000+ parts and we get a model that is 95% the same as the original model. And if that's not the worst part, it's ugly AF, as some people would like to phrase it. The Pile Driver extension looks like something I could have built....when I was four . Maybe, well probably, I am insulting someone at The LEGO Group, but I can only hope that they were lacking time and/or resources, so they came up with this at the last moment. The argument of time is rendered invalid, because this is what you can in a couple of days. Well, maybe not everybody, but @nico71 was able to turn this set into a front loader. Nobody will probably argue that this would have been a better B-model. Not sure what TLG's policy is regarding alternate models but the 42030 isn't in production anymore, so I don't see any reason not go for something like this. The rear view of the model. And even the grey construction elements can be turned into something useful. SUMMARY I am a big fan of this set. It packs a lot of functionality and parts, for a decent price. The forum contains pages and pages with potential improvements, but that's out of scope for my review. Almost every set gets improved by AFOLs, so that's no surprise. Bottomline is that this is great set for existing AFOLs and new AFOLs alike. I can remember coming out of my dark ages in 2005, building the 8421 - Mobile Crane, which had a whopping 1885 parts. I remember the endless quantity of parts coming out of the box. Imagine a set with more than twice the part count. And again, this doesn't automatically mean a better set, but you will be impressed when you open this box. Much has been said about the color vommit in the chassis of this model. I have grown fond of color vommit, because I like the variety in the parts. I do enjoy seeing all the colored parts. However, using orange 3L Pins with Bush is pushing it to the limit, especially on a red model. I would have preferred blue instead of orange. My final conclusion is that for around 200 euro, you do get a LOT of value for money. I can see myself getting an extra copy, just because of that. I would almost go as far a stating that this could be considered a UCS Technic set. PROS Good looking model Properly working functions (even Ackermann steering) Several (linked) gearboxes Great parts pack (especially for people new to Technic) Very affordable, almost cheap CONS Some slack due to drivetrains and gearboxes Outriggers operate very slowly No suspension No special parts besides the new curved gear rack in black SCORE How do I rate this set? 9 DESIGN I love the looks, color scheme, everything. 9 BUILDING EXPERIENCE Very enjoyable build with several gearboxes and other functionality. 8 FEATURES Great features, with some room for improvement. No suspension though. 9 PLAYABILITY Implemented features provide lots of playability. 8 PARTS Mostly common parts, but you do get a lot of them. 10 VALUE FOR MONEY Price goes down to 4,8 cent per part if you shop around. It doesn't get any cheaper than this. 8,8 UCS ANYONE? Thanks you for reading this review. All pictures can be found here.
  2. Feuer Zug

    Modular Tunnel

    I'd built a tunnel segment many years ago. It was a small setup that fit onto a single 32x32 baseplate. As my layout expanded, the tunnel looked small, and out of place. I started expanding it, and then the project snowballed. As my layout is never the same between shows, and the hassle of trying to transport it became evident, I had to think about its future. Thusly, I made it into a modular design. Most tunnel segments are on a 32x32 baseplate with an 8x32 baseplate extension on the front. One segment is built on 16-wide to allow for optimization of space depending on the layout and how much room I'm allowed. Here is the full tunnel with all segments I have built. With the exceptions of the ends (and the 16-wide segment, more below), they can be placed in any order. The cabin portal. Two tracks with 8 studs between them. Supports are designed for a 10-wide opening. It is 13 bricks high from the top of the rail to the start of the arches. As seen here, the Disney locomotive fits (barely) width wise, while an intermodal double stack well car makes it through as well height wise. Side view of the cabin portal segment. The 16-wide spacer segment. This one is designed to be butted against the cabin for the woodpile, but could go elsewhere if required. The woodpile can quickly be removed and a tree or other foliage added. The mountain segment. Side view of the mountain segment. The hiking path tunnel goes completely through as well, with a one stud offset. Additionally, you can see the support structure. Note the technic bricks spanning the top and the two down at the bottom. These features are included in all of the segments. That allows me to insert technic pins to the bottom bricks, and anywhere along the top to provide a firm connection between segments. I also put a few plates on the top to hold them together too. As you can see, there is a back plate to all the segments, making them more visually acceptable at shows. The waterfall segment. The expanded waterfall segment. Note the wind turbine on the rocks. Three tunnel segments have points for these. I've only built a pair of turbines though. The 16x32 baseplate at the base of the waterfall expands the scene to show the base. With the removal of a plate, it has an outlet for the river as well. The castle segment. Not visible is the draw bridge leading up to the front entrance and a hidden side exit through the rocks on the right side. In winter, this becomes a double black diamond ski slope. It also has a wind turbine support area. The forest portal segment. It is the final segment with a wind turbine option. The forest portal opening. There you have it, the modular tunnel and all segments I've currently constructed. Did you find the ruby eyed face?
  3. Yoggington

    Rounded Train Tunnel

    I wanted to share some images of a tunnel facade I've been working on. It is for a standalone display in my home, and built to fit the Cargo Train 60198. Tunnel clearance They are built as a pair. Some colours need changing out, will pick those up next time I am using bricklink. I'm not sure about the keystone, but the left version will do for now. Tunnel front facade The rounded effect is created using 1x2 rounded plates as seen below. In terms of alignment, this will result in the tunnel having an odd-count stud width, as an even-count messes with the radius. While I have not tried it, this theoretically means it will work at any odd-count width, so you could boost the width if you had wider trains, or wanted to place it at a curve. Consequently, you will need to offset the entire structure by one half-stud. Tunnel backend
  4. Building mountains, hills or any type of terrain that isn't just a flat array of plates and tiles can be very parts-expensive. Personally, it seems nearly impossible to make something larger than a small mound using pieces from one's own parts collection, without buying more pieces online specifically with this purpose in mind. Here are some examples of LEGO mountain MOCs from the web: Jangbricks' mountain with train tunnel - heavy in slopes and bricks (looks like there are some BURPs used, though, which do help to ease the piece load?) YSDWDY's Hoth Echo Base entrance, from this topic: Asimon481's cliff with waterfall. And another cliff and waterfall MOC, this time by Grant Davis, who used large curved slopes to create a very unique and beautiful texture: Of the examples above, Grant Davis' cliff seems to use the least amount of parts, at the expense of needing to find a way to angle them all together to minimize the amount of unsightly gaps. The techniques used and the texture created are so intricate that the rockwork itself becomes the focus of the MOC. However, for MOCs where the terrain is used as a prop upon which to set more important elements, this technique could be more of a headache than it's worth, despite how impressive the end result looks. I'm currently trying to build the entrance to the Hoth Echo Base, but am having trouble getting it off the ground, since I'd like to use the parts in my collection. I'm considering using a lot of plates angled with hinges and with some texture added to them, like Povoq's Castle in the Forest, which uses this technique on its right side: How do you go about building terrain? Do you have any particular tips, tricks or techniques to build good-looking terrain without resorting to emptying your bricks and slopes bins?
  5. Please suport my project on Lego Ideas. https://ideas.lego.com/projects/bc17ae38-b3e7-4cb2-b804-401e0bcc7aef Power functions: 3x L-motor 1x IR Receiver 1x IR Remote Control 1x AAA Battery Box 1x Control Switch 1x Extension Wire Description All openable doors. Model have fake motor V6. Color: Black and Yellow Number of Pieces: 800-100 Thank you very much for your support! Military version: HƤgglunds BV 206s
  6. CommanderJonny1

    [MOC] Imperial VT-ST Walker

    "Sir, we don't have the firepower." "Use the Scout Walkers!" -Imperial comm intercept The Variable Terrain Scout Transport is the first walker in the Variable Terrain family. Originally, the head of the walker was meant to be placed on an Imperial armored vehicle (currently a still on-going project) as a turret; however, the turret was deemed unsuitable with the vehicles designed (though it could still be used as a turret), so it was decided to use it in a pint-sized scout walker. With this in mind, inspiration was taken from the 2016 AT-ST in regards to the legs. The overall design is similar, albeit shrunk to about half the size in most of its proportions. I'm satisfied overall with the design, though as a cockpit for a walker, I find the controls a bit lacking (as I'd prefer a bit more); I also wanted the twin cannons in front to be able to articulate up and down like the AT-ST, but I thought it was low enough to not matter much (as well as having the side armament compensate a bit for this)- due to its connection method, the twin cannons can be modified with bars and clips to articulate, similar to the ones on the VT-IT. Th VT-ST is armed with twin heavy blaster cannons, as well as a missile launcher on each side, all in a fixed forward position. It is also equipped with a grenade launcher on either side that can articulate in multiple directions, as well as a short range comm antenna. SW Imperial VT-ST #1 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr SW Imperial VT-ST #2 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr SW Imperial VT-ST #3 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr SW Imperial Turret #1 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr SW Imperial Turret #2 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr SW Imperial Turret #4 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr The cockpit, as a consequence of its origin as a turret, is equipped with a joystick control, a holotransmitter, and a control panel. SW Imperial Turret #3 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr The VT-ST is the mainstay of the Variable Terrain line, and they make up the bulk of the various VT models assigned to Imperial units in the field. Although Brickthana Engineering hoped its VT line could be a competitive alternative to All Terrain family, various issues from production problems to under-performance (among others) hampered its chances, and Brickthana eventually accepted its current place, and began focusing on smaller and more well-defined and in-depth projects. If you want to build this for yourselves, here's the instructions: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1JwnhA1YJRbazR8FXOoOl8Yh4ctVuPn4O As usual, any feedback would be much appreciated
  7. CommanderJonny1

    [MOC] Imperial VT-IT Walker

    "We got walkers!" "Don't worry, they're just eye-tees" - Rebel radio chatter This simple MOC is part of my VT family of walkers, being a sort of offshoot of my original VT-PT prototype, and is based off of the walker in the Imperial Trooper Battlepack (in a kind of roundabout way). Envisioned as a more armed and protected reconnaissance walker by Brickthana Engineering, the Variable Terrain Infantry Transport featured similar construction to both its bigger brother the VT-PT, as well as turrets used by both Imperial and Rebel forces. Unfortunately for Imperial forces, combat performance for the VT-IT fell below expectations and they were often stripped for parts for both VT-RT and VT-PT walkers by the units they were assigned to. Brickthana desperately tried to prop up the walker's abilities, but they finally yielded to the operators' preference for previous reconnaissance walkers and shut down production. After a time, and still having many of the walkers still in warehouses, Brickthana began work on a successor to the VT-IT; this second attempt has four legs, and is planned to have room for at least two or three troops onboard. Retaining the same weapon loadout as the original (or an equivalent one), this version is thought to be a direct response to both the lacking performance of the first one, as well as the Rebel's Scorpius Mk I. The VT-IT is armed with a two twin missile launchers, as well as a chin-mounted twin light blaster cannon; it's also equipped with a powerful, and detachable, communications array. SW Imperial VT-IT #1 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr SW Imperial VT-IT #2 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr Inside the cramped cockpit, the VT-IT has a pair of joystick controls, a weapons sensor, a targeting array, and a holotransmitter. SW Imperial VT-IT #3 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr If you want to build this yourselves, here's the instructions: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1oek7pVqNSDlEji5pPW4taSax8E0mxqr1 As usual, any feedback would be much appreciated
  8. CommanderJonny1

    [MOC] Imperial VT-PT Walker

    "Although versatile, Imperial Scout walkers are not all-powerful. We need dedicated Patrol walkers, and soon." -Commander Selm The second walker in the Variable Terrain family, the Variable Terrain Patrol Transport was the result of designers blending the plans for the Scout Transport and Recon Transport together into one composite idea. The various STs were implemented in a variety of roles that they were not necessarily suited for, leading to mission proficiency dropping. Although some tasks could be taken over by the complementary RTs, there still exists a gap between the two where a new walker would hep the mission profile. Thus the VT-PT was born. Designed to work well in both urban and open environments, it features increased armor and a more robust armament than its counterparts, in addition to a fairly quick speed thanks to its reinforced legs and servo-motors. The main armament is flexible Heavy Blaster Cannon with a wide arc of fire, with the secondary armament being the twin missile launchers on either side. In addition, the VT-PT also has an advanced forward sensor and a redundant communications array for keeping in touch with command and other patrolling forces. SW Imperial VT-PT #1 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr SW Imperial VT-PT #2 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr Although simple, the walker is equipped with an on-board AI to aid the pilot. SW Imperial VT-PT #3 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr Many features are shared between the VT-PT and the VT-ST, including a general interior layout. SW Imperial VT-PT #4 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr A look inside at the targeting controls, sensor gauge, and holo-transmitter. SW Imperial VT-PT #5 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr Overall, this was meant to be the equal of the VT-ST, fulfilling a similar role while carrying a different weapons load out and leg structure. If you want to build this yourselves, here's the instructions: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1ukXIVIj0IrDZYed7qi6PywzJW8DTJlSV As usual, and feedback would be appreciated
  9. CommanderJonny1

    [MOC] Imperial VT-RT Walker

    "Not as pompous as claiming 'All Terrain', we instead provide... variability." -Brickthana Engineering Executive Following the increase in the numbers of Rebel groups, the Galactic Empire needed more equipment to deal with the new threat, and turned to numerous companies to fill the gaps. An alternative to the 'All Terrain' family of walkers, the Variable Terrain series was meant to be a cheaper, more easily produced addition to Imperial forces. Part of this initiative is the Variable Terrain Reconnaissance Transport, a group of walkers designed to supplement their AT counterpart in a variety of ways. While following a superficially similar design, Brickthana has tried, with varying degrees of success, to expand the mission capability of its walkers. To try and compete with Rebel designs, versatility was a must for these new vehicles being made. First up is the initial prototype of the VT-RT concept, eventually getting the designation of 'VT-RT(L*)' and be the basis of the VT-RT(X). Although broad/blocky, a design 'flaw' inherent to many of the VT family, the aim of the designers were to add more protection to both the driver and the important components of the walker itself. Eventually these walkers would be replaced, seeing some use as turrets after modifications. SW Imperial VT-RT(L) Prototype #1 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr SW Imperial VT-RT(L) Prototype #2 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr The second walker of the RT series is the VT-RT Experimental. Being dubbed the 'Expendable' by its drivers, the VT-RT(X) was a further step in trying to get as much from its frame as possible, with four versions being created. While all had the same base model, they could be modified into the different versions to operate in different mediums- these being the standard land configuration (Experimental-Land), an amphibious configuration (Experimental-Sea), an aerial configuration (Experimental-Air), and finally one meant for use in space (Experimental-Vacuum). Issues plagued the RT(X)- from certain system malfunctions to poor handling, eventually forcing Brickthana to review the design and begin work on a new version of the walker. The third walker of the RT series is the RT Heavy. The biggest of the three 'standard' VT-RTs, the RT(H) design was completed first. Meant to be a versatile infantry support vehicle, it ended up not performing to expectations, though it was still useful in its role. While it does have some amphibious capability, it was not equipped like the RT(X-S), and therefore is not as reliable in the water as its cousin. To compensate for some of its deficiencies, it is armed with a heavy blaster cannon and two detachable grenade launchers, as well as a more powerful transmitter. SW Imperial VT-RT(H) #1 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr SW Imperial VT-RT(H) #2 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr SW Imperial VT-RT(H) #3 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr The fourth walker of the RT series is the RT Medium. The RT(M) was something of a misplaced design, as originally there was only two sizes that the RT would come in. This changed when it was decided that a design in the works (a troop transport) needed better escorts, and the RT(M) was created. In addition, there was an explicit order to try and incorporate parts/sections of one into the other, to ease production and interchangeability. While it was initially proposed to have a rotating bottom, to be converted into a turret, this was denied. Though it was mounted on a pair of legs, the body retained some of its features as a turret, including its armored sides and controls that can fold forward. SW Imperial VT-RT(M) #1 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr SW Imperial VT-RT(M) #2 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr SW Imperial VT-RT(M) #3 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr The fifth and final walker of the RT series is the RT Light, the most direct counterpart to its AT compatriot. The RT(L) was designed to be a well balanced machine, combining decent armament, speed, and protection. Like its bigger brother the RT(H), it can float, however it wasn't designed with this explicitly in mind, and therefore has no propulsion; furthermore, if rocked too much, it can easily tip over and sink. SW Imperial VT-RT(L) #1 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr SW Imperial VT-RT(L) #2 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr SW Imperial VT-RT(L) #3 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr A semi-addition to the RT project is the RT Droid, an automated bi-pedal walker. The VT-RT(D) is in a sort of grey area, and so is not fully included with the rest of the RT walkers. Instead, it's been put with other Brickthana droids, and may even have its designation changed. SW Imperial VT-RT(D) #1 by Jonathan Wallace, on Flickr If you want to build any of these for yourselves, here's the instructions: VT-RT(X): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yff351-w3sy1eyjQWu0awe88lGsyM2Nk/view?usp=sharing VT-RT(H): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wtnQpUb9V0GD_j1_cZuB9T0KiSRMrKJQ/view?usp=sharing VT-RT(M): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gJOcc4ppMsbLF82g1kfIGiZ7wjpzxWR3/view?usp=sharing VT-RT(L): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tipChHxhxKB54LxdCGOvqzqOZEkCfRVs/view?usp=sharing As usual, any feedback would be most appreciated! P.S. As far as the VT-RT(D) goes, you can see more pictures on Flickr, and I plan on including it in a topic with other Imperial Droids I'm currently working on.
  10. Darth Hammy

    [MOD LDD] AT TE

    Here's a MOD of captain Rex's AT TE. I removed the platforms and added as well as modding the turrets The main turret. I will be building this soon in real life.
  11. Standing 58cm tall and 59cm long, this AT-AT from Star Wars is probably my largest robot to date. It is controlled by an EV3 p-brick, and is capable of walking, turning its neck, and shooting balls from a twin-ball launcher located inside its head. Here is a list of the functions of the robot: - Walking: 2 EV3 large motors - Neck turning: 1 EV3 medium motor - Shooting: 1 NXT motor Also includes an EV3 IR sensor for use with the EV3 IR remote. After getting the BWE, I had a plentiful supply of grey beams and panels, which I used in the aesthetics of the model. The head design was the most tricky part of the build. I needed it to look good, while at the same time have enough space for the twin-ball shooter with magazines. However, I'm happy with the end result, as it looks quite accurate to the actual thing. With the amount of pieces I had, I was also able to achieve a (almost) full body cover, which although adds to the weight of the robot, looks really nice. There are also two flaps on top of the head that can be lifted up to access the ball magazines. Walking was especially tricky to achieve in this model, as it was so top heavy. Rubber bands had to be used to help pull in the legs when they bore the load of the robot, otherwise the motors would not have enough torque. All legs are controlled simultaneously by the two motors, so the robot theoretically can't turn. However, I doubt the robot could turn even if the two sides could be controlled independently, since it is so top heavy. The EV3 brick can be accessed through opening of the panels on the side of the body. This was the easiest way to access the electronics while keeping a full-body cover (The real AT-AT in the movies also had opening side body panels). Here is a video of the AT-AT walking, turning its neck, and shooting. More information about the robot can be found here: https://www.us.lego.com/en-us/mindstorms/community/robot?projectid=afba4def-3b6b-49f3-8e0f-f964224763d9 Hope you enjoyed this robot!
  12. Hello Guys :) Being working on a MAN GTS 6x6 Truck. HereĀ“s the LDD Im having a few Problems with the last axle tho. It is powered through the 2nd axle. I think it will be very weak. Do you guys have some Solutions how the last axle can be as powerful as the 2nd? Without doing big Upgrades on that what i have done till now?
  13. For our second annual US Civil War Collaboration at Brickfair Virginia, we created a large display (4x8 of 32x32 stud baseplates) of the 1864 battle to commemorate the 150th Anniversary. John Rudy, Joshua Brooks, Patrick Taylor and I built 32 modules and invaded them with 179 confederates and 142 Federals: ---Click on the pictures for greater detail--- While we had to compress the battlefield to get the Railroad Cut, Ny Stream, Brock Road and Widow Tap's Farm in, we were very careful to recreate the battle on May 6th, 1864 at 11:00 am, when General James Longstreet sent his Chief of Staff Lt Col Moxley Sorrel and four brigades sneaking along the Railroad Cut to surprise the Federals with a flank attack. All four of us had a great time with this, and got to talk about history to those who otherwise didn't know about it. The display was popular with the public and AFOLs alike at Brickfair VA, and was nominated for the Best Historical award, but lost to another of my builds, the Battle of Rorke's Drift (post to follow soon). Cheers, Gary
  14. Jackal76

    Mech facility update.

    Hello all, Work continues on the Mech Facility my brother-in- law and I have been working on. In addition to the Mech bay , we now have a warehouse: a holding cradle for a cargo container: and a spare parts yard: Enjoy! -Jon